Echocalypse: Scarlet Covenant story · Themed biography
Promising Eastrise
Rasparta's terrifying plan was uncovered, with hidden explosives in the lucky bag posing a significant threat. Lorine and the Awakener worked together to save the Fair and Raeon. In the end, Lorine was granted special rights of management by Raeon, restoring her business's reputation and forging a strong partnership with the Awakener.
8 scenes, 110 lines
1. Undercurrents Surge
11 linesIn the tranquil back warehouse of the Anything Store, Brown was sitting at the desk, sorting out the accounts, with a faint smile on her face. Standing by her side was her capable assistant, Lumin.
Boss, Captain and Miss Lorine came to pick up their custom-made goods today.
Really? It seems they trust us a lot. But, have you noticed that among the lucky bags prepared by Lorine, there is one specially arranged for Raeon?
Is it for Raeon? No wonder it takes so much effort...
In this way, my task is also completed--
Lumin paused slightly, her tone carrying a hint of hesitation.
Mission?
Nothing, that is... a commission from another client.
I'm not sure if Raeon will like this gift...
Sister Brown, then... what is our position?
We have already completed our work. As for what happens next, it has nothing to do with us.
2. Security Check
10 linesThe New Year's Fair was about to begin. Lorine and Awakener brought the prepared lucky bags to the checkpoint guarded by Tomie.
These lucky bags are all carefully prepared. Won't it be too troublesome to check them?
Although Tomie doesn't understand much about the ways of the world, she is quite responsible. Don't expect to get by easily.
Awakener took out a beautifully roasted meat from his arms, neatly wrapped in paper, and handed it to Tomie.
Ms. Tomie, this is the specially prepared barbecue, please have a taste. If you're satisfied, welcome to visit our stall!
Tomie's eyes lit up as she took the barbecue, tore it open and took a bite, nodding in satisfaction immediately.
Well, not bad. You guys go ahead,
This works too easy... Never mind, at least the lucky bags have passed safely.
In business, you still need to learn to make some compromises.
Well, I've also made my own preparations.
3. Concerted Effort
8 linesThe main street of Eastrise was now decorated anew, with red lanterns hung high and golden 'Fu' characters plastered everywhere. A strong festive atmosphere enveloped the entire city. The streets were crowded with people, and the stalls were bustling with noise.
This scene is really lively! As long as our booth can attract half of the guests, we won't lose out this time.
A burst of gong and drum sounds rang out, and the crowd's eyes all turned to the end of the main street. Raeon, the leader of Eastrise, dressed in a magnificent red robe, slowly ascended the high platform. Her every move exuded authority, and her voice was calm and solemn.
Merchants, envoys, and all guests who have traveled from afar, thank you for participating in the Eastrise New Year's Fair. This is not only a grand trade event, but also a cultural exchange and collision. May everyone find the beauty they are looking for here. The New Year's Fair is officially open!
As Raeon's voice just fell, a burst of cheers erupted from the stage. The sound of firecrackers intertwined with the band's performance, echoing through the streets. Lorine stood in front of the stall, her eyes flashing with ambition.
The opening is here! The opportunity has come, partner. Today we must make everyone remember our name!
This Fair stands for Eastrise, and is also the stage for everyone's ambition. Hopefully, nothing unexpected will happen.
According to my divination, we are blessed with good luck today, and we will surely turn misfortune into fortune.
4. Grand Opening
18 linesThe hustle and bustle of the market continued to heat up, with crowds gathering in front of various stalls. Many customers were already carrying the lucky bags they just bought, excitedly discussing their gains. There's also a long queue in front of Lorine's stall, and she's swamped with work.
This lucky bag looks really nice! What surprises could be inside?
I heard there are limited edition amulets, and if you're lucky, you could even win a grand prize!
Hurry, hand over the lucky bag! Remember, greet every customer with a smile. Customer service is priority!
You can actually laugh. The traffic here is almost catching up with a war!
Just then, an elegant woman slowly approached the stall. She was dressed in a low-key yet exquisite manner, holding a notebook in her hand, carefully examining the layout and goods on the stall. Awakener noticed her first, slightly taken aback.
Akira? How come you are also visiting the Fair?
Indeed, I am here on Shiyu's orders to inspect the preparations at the Fair. However, your stalls really caught my eyes.
Humph, this time, I am fully prepared, ready to become the biggest star in this Fair!
But your ideas are indeed unique, especially the amulet design in the lucky bag. Even I want to try my luck.
You'd better act quickly. The grand prize could be drawn at any time.
Akira nodded gently. Her gaze moving away from the stall, she said in a low voice.
The Fair is a significant symbol of Eastrise, and the performance of each stall affects the overall success. However, I must remind you that Lady Raeon is also paying great attention to this Fair, and I hope you won't let her down.
Rest assured! We will definitely show Raeon that the merchants of Eastrise can not only make money, but also represent the culture and creativity here!
Akira revealed a faint smile, turning to blend into the crowd. Lorine watched her back, letting out a sigh of relief.
Even Shiyu's family thinks it's good. It seems there won't be any problems this time!
Don't be too optimistic, Akira's appearance is not just for praise. Be careful, we can't afford any mistakes.
Lorine nodded and returned to her busy stall work. However, Awakener's gaze drifted towards the depths of the Fair. A trace of unease was swirling in her heart.
5. Special Grand Prize
26 linesThe bustling fair reached its climax, with crowds gathering in front of Lorine's stall and the laughter of customers echoing around. Lorine stood in the center of the stall, a triumphant smile on his face, waiting with anticipation for the arrival of a distinguished guest.
'Partner, Raeon is coming! This time, I specifically arranged a big prize for her, which will definitely make her look at my stall with new eyes!'
Are you sure this is okay? Don't you think it's a bit presumptuous if you're seen through?'
How could it be! This is the New Year's Fair. I just wanted Raeon to share in the joy!'
Accompanied by Zawa, Raeon slowly approached the stall. The surrounding customers immediately made way and paid their respects. She calmly scanned the lucky bags on the stall, revealing a faint smile.
Miss Lorine, your stall seems to be quite popular.
You're right, Lady Raeon! Today's special grand prize hasn't been drawn yet. It might be waiting for you to draw it personally, ensuring you start the New Year with great luck!
At this moment, a small hand in the crowd tugged at Awakener's sleeve.
Captain, there's something wrong with that lucky bag! Brown has arranged something inside, which might pose a threat to Raeon!
What?! Are you saying... someone wants to harm Raeon?
I'm not sure. It could be someone from Rasparta... but we must stop her from opening it! Trust me!
Well... I certainly trust you.
Just as Raeon was about to open the lucky bag, Awakener rushed forward and snatched it away. The surrounding guards immediately heightened their vigilance, and Zawa quickly stepped in front of Raeon, staring at Awakener with a cold gaze.
Captain, what is the meaning of your actions? Lady Raeon needs an explanation.
Lord Raeon, this lucky bag has been tampered with and may contain a dangerous device. The consequences could be unimaginable if you open it.
Raeon's eyebrows slightly furrowed. Her gaze fell on the lucky bag in Awakener's hand, her tone still calm.
Are you suggesting that someone is trying to target me with this lucky bag?
Yes. I can't confirm who the mastermind is yet, but rest assured, I will thoroughly investigate and ensure your safety.
After a moment of contemplation, Raeon turned her head to look at Zawa.
If it's as you say, Captain, this is not only a threat to me, but also a provocation to the entire market order. But I don't want this to interrupt the New Year's celebration.
Captain, I'm giving you this opportunity. If you can handle this crisis discreetly, I can let the matter of the lucky bag slide. However, if you fail, I will personally hold all those involved accountable.
Understood. I will definitely resolve this issue and bring peace to the New Year.
Raeon's gaze was calm and resolute. She then turned around and left, continuing her market patrol. Meanwhile, Awakener, holding the lucky bag, had a strong sense of alertness towards the mastermind behind the scenes.
Partner, that really scared the life out of me just now... What should we do next?
Find the agents of Rasparta. They can't possibly just set up one lucky bag. There must be other means.
Under Raeon's silent gaze, Awakener disappeared into the crowd, and a covert competition was about to begin.
6. Know Your Enemy
12 linesWhat characteristics might Rasparta's agent have?
Rasparta, Rasparta... wait, isn't that...?
Awakener quickly caught up with the familiar figure, entering a secluded alley. Deep in the alley, a slender woman leaned against the wall, looking at Awakener with a calm expression.
Awakener, long time no see. Are you chasing me this time, or looking for me?
To be honest, I breathed a sigh of relief when I saw you here. It seems I have to trouble you again, Mitsuha.
Just say it, what's the matter?
The people of Rasparta have taken action. They are trying to target Raeon in this Fair. I need you to help me find them in the crowd.
You're definitely more familiar with them than I am. I believe you can find their traces.
Mochizuki Mitsuha was silent for a moment, then nodded.
What about you? Are you responsible for wrapping things up for me?
Well, I guess that's all I can do.
Mitsuha nodded slightly, said no more, turned and jumped onto the eaves of a nearby house, disappearing into the night like a shadow.
7. Firework
10 lines
Damn it, why can't I get in touch with any of my teammates...
We have to resort to the final measure!
A huge roar suddenly came from the city tower. A massive beast emerged from the dust, its fierce gaze sweeping around.
Is this... Nian?! How could it appear here!
It seems to be the fallback of Rasparta's agent...
Nian roared and charged towards the Fair, leaving the crowd no time to disperse.
Hey! Here's what you want! Follow me!
Nian was attracted by the shiny big lucky bag and turned to chase Lorine. Awakener immediately understood her plan and ran after them.
Partner! Get ready to catch me! Three, two... one!
Lorine leaped into the air, throwing the lucky bag into the mouth of Nian, which swallowed it in one gulp. Immediately, a huge explosion sounded in the air, and the brilliant fireworks lit up the night sky.
8. Springtime
15 linesIn the days following the New Year's Fair, the streets of Mo Capital returned to the usual calm, but Lorine's stall was still bustling. She busily arranged her shelves, humming a cheerful tune, and looked radiant.
Hehe, who would have thought that I, Lorine, could actually get the special operating rights from Lord Raeon! This is the glory that every Eastrise merchant dreams of!
Looks like my dividend is also on the way.
In fact, we didn't make much money from this Fair after deducting the costs... But we have made a name for Heaven's Pavilion!
Partner, all of this is owed to your help. If it weren't for you, I might not even be alive, let alone have the right to operate!
You didn't disappoint me either, saving the entire market with your lucky bags...
This lucky bag was worth our money... But honestly, partner, thank you. This success is not only mine, but also ours.
Lorine took out a specially wrapped lucky bag from the shelf and handed it to Awakener.
This is a lucky bag specially reserved for you. It contains carefully selected goodies from me. Consider it as a special reward for partners!
Partner, we will do more business together in the future, right?
Thank you... Of course, making money is indeed quite interesting. I'll be right behind you to catch you!
It's still infuriating to think about. Who on earth put the bomb in that lucky bag? But I feel awkward to blame Miss Lumin...
True...
Fortunately, the organization and Raeon didn't investigate me, and Awakener didn't suspect me either... I can't let Grace close down because of this incident.
Since when have I also had something to cherish in this world?