Scenario:Mahira - Half-Baked Santa
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Half-Baked Santa
Mahira isn't quite sure what presents to give (Captain) and company for the holidays. When Lyria compliments her fluffy white outfit, she settles on making fluffy white Clucky-Dollies for everyone.
Days have passed since Santa's visit to the Grandcypher.
Mahira is in her room, reviewing her sketch of the jolly old man's sleigh.
Mahira: Hrm... No matter what angle I approach it from, there's no way to carry that many presents on a sleigh of this size.
Mahira: If the seating area were made mostly hollow for more storage room, the center of gravity would become a problem during flight.
Mahira: Or do the reindeers naturally solve that problem?
Mahira: I'll have to take a good look at the reindeers on the holy night.
She jots down the points she should pay close attention to when the time comes, a satisfied smile crossing her lips.
Mahira: That should do it for now.
Mahira: All that's left is to actually ride on the thing. I should be able to tell where the propeller's installed from how it sways.
Mahira: And I'll also have to keep an eye on Santa's movements when giving out presents.
Mahira: After all, Rackam once told me that you can tell an airship's quality just by looking at the helmsman.
Mahira: Figuring out his thought process by tracking his every little move should give me some idea on—
Mahira: Oh, that reminds me.
Mahira thumps her hand mid-sentence.
Mahira: While I'm at it, I might as well give (Captain) and the others presents.
Mahira: It'll bring me closer to Santa's train of thought...
Mahira: While also giving me the chance to pay everyone back for being such good friends. A great idea.
Mahira: Now to figure out what to give them.
Mahira jumps out of her seat.
She takes a stroll through the airship, hoping for some inspiration for the ideal present.
Mahira: It's always so lively on the Grandcypher when the holiday season draws near.
Mahira: Seeing all these festive decorations should spark some ideas...
Mahira: Hm, nothing comes to me even when looking at the holiday dinner plan.
Mahira: Maybe I should think about the performances that'll be held at the party.
Muttering to herself, Mahira continues down the hallway.
Familiar faces soon appear before her.
Vyrn: Careful there, Mahira! You might bump into someone if you walk around with your head down.
Mahira: Huh?
Ah. Hello, everyone.
Ah. Hello, everyone.
Mahira: Sorry, I was lost in thought. What are you guys up to?
Lyria: We're getting outfits and props ready for the show at the holiday party.
Mahira: Oh, that thing you do every year? I love how fancy the outfits can get.
Mahira: What's the theme going to be this year?
Lyria: Oh, it's—
Mahira is hopeful that speaking to them might provide her with some hints.
Lyria's face lights up amid their conversation.
Lyria: Speaking of outfits, I think you're adorable in that, Mahira.
Lyria: The fluffy white look really suits you. Right, (Captain)?
(Captain) gives Mahira a thumbs-up.
Choose: Reminds me of an angel's wings.
Mahira: Now that you mention it, I definitely see the resemblance.
Mahira: I love how it gives the impression that I can take to the skies at any moment.
Choose: You are one sweet chicken.
You are one sweet chicken.
Mahira: Aha, no wonder this outfit looked so familiar. I definitely see the resemblance.
Mahira: I guess that makes it really fitting for me as Queen of the Roosters.
Continue 1
Mahira: Hm... Does everyone like things that are fluffy and white?
Lyria: Well, plenty of people find that to be an adorable theme.
Mahira: Hm, I'll keep that in mind.
Vyrn: What for? Ah, right, must be what you were lost in thought about earlier.
Vyrn: If it's something we can help out with, just say the word.
Mahira: Oh, it's just for a bit of research. No worries.
Lyria: Yeah? Um, okay then.
Mahira: I'm done brainstorming—now to get back and put it all together. See you later.
Mahira scuttles back to her room, leaving the others somewhat confused.
Mahira: (That was too close... I almost spoiled the surprise.)
Mahira: (But it turned out okay since I got the ideas I needed.)
Mahira recalls the exchange from earlier.
Lyria: Haha... I think you're adorable in that outfit, Mahira!
Lyria: The fluffy white look really suits you. Right, (Captain)?
Mahira: Hm... Does everyone like things that are fluffy and white?
Lyria: Well, plenty of people find that to be an adorable theme.
Mahira: People tend to like cute and fluffy things. I can understand that.
Mahira: Now to come up with a present along those lines... A white clucky doll should do.
Mahira: It'd make their day and also match well with my outfit.
Mahira: Okay, it's decided then. I'll have to start making the doll soon to ensure it's on time for the holidays.
With a clear goal in mind, Mahira sets out to make the blueprint.
Mahira: Petting the doll will make it cluck...
Mahira: Maybe I can have it say, "Happy holidays."
Mahira: And I can even add the features from my previous Wakey-Clucky for additional functionality.
Mahira: Also...
Mahira: Sigh... As good as I am at building machines, sewing is something else entirely.
Mahira: Still, I think I did a decent enough job here.
Mahira: Mass producing these is the next issue. Maybe I should've made a doll-sewing machine as the first step...
Mahira: But no matter—I can do that now.
Mahira stays cooped up in her room for the next few days to focus on her work.
On the morning before the big day, Mahira completes production on a good number of Clucky-Dollies.
Mahira: There, that's the last one.
Mahira: The finishing touches look okay too... Not to brag, but it's absolutely adorable.
Mahira: All that's left is to prepare the gift wrap. Wait here like the good chickens you are, everyone.
With a satisfied smile, Mahira pets her Clucky-Dollies.
She then heads out to town to buy ribbons and wrapping paper.
Half-Baked Santa: Scene 2
While on a short trip to town for some wrapping paper, she stops at a cafe and overhears the girls at a neighboring table gossiping about bad holiday presents. Realizing her Clucky-Dollies fit all those criteria, she decides to buy everyone presents instead but can't settle on what to buy.
Mahira has come to town to buy wrapping paper and ribbons.
The streets are full of shoppers getting their presents in order.
Mahira: (Captain) mentioned that many shops close early before the holidays.
Mahira: As packed as it is, I have to do what I came here for.
Mahira blends into the crowds and searches for a suitable shop.
Mahira: (Nope, not that place. They sell some general goods, but they mostly deal in books.)
Mahira: (That technical text on display is looking really good though...)
Mahira: (Nuh-uh. Focus, Mahira. There's no time to waste.)
Mahira: (Ooh, a specialty tool shop...)
Mahira: (It's too bad they don't sell gift wrap. Maybe next time...)
Mahira keeps her desires in check and continues searching for the right shop.
Thanks to her efforts, the Divine General is able to secure the necessary materials.
Mahira: Phew... That didn't take as long as I thought it would.
Mahira: I should have some time for a break. I can handle the gift wrapping later tonight.
Mahira stops by a cafe on the outskirts of town. She lays out her ribbons on the table while sipping on tea.
Mahira: The sky blue ribbon is for (Captain).
Mahira: Apple-loving Vyrn will be pleased to receive the red one.
Mahira: And the pink ribbon's a perfect match with Lyria's journal.
Mahira: But maybe she'd be happier to get a ribbon that matches (Captain)'s...
Mahira plans out the logistics of the gift-wrapping that will happen later that night.
Two girls take their seats behind her.
Patron 1: Whew, I'm beat... It's not easy picking out good presents.
Patron 2: No kidding. I did a quick tour of the town, but I still can't make up my mind...
Patron 2: It's such a challenge every year.
Mahira: (Huh? Sounds like they're talking about presents.)
Having completed her ribbon selection, Mahira's ears perk up to their discussion.
Patron 2: I'd come across as boring if I chose presents similar to last year's, or if I chose the same presents as everyone else...
Patron 2: Especially if you trade presents with someone, it's a bit awkward when you give each other the same thing.
Patron 1: Yeah, that's no fun. The stores we check out are all the same too.
Patron 1: Last year, my little sis and I ended up giving our mom the exact same present.
Patron 2: And for the kids, it's even worse when your present is the same as Santa's.
Patron 2: Oh, what to do... I'm thinking of a plushie for my ten-year-old sis, but I wonder if that might be too kiddie.
Patron 1: Getting the same doll from different people seems like something kids would fuss about.
Patron 1: Ten sounds like the age kids start maturing. Why not get her a fashionable little trinket, or maybe even makeup.
Patron 2: Nah, I don't think she's ready for makeup yet.
Patron 2: Oh, what to do... I can already picture her looking at me funny if I pick out a weird present.
The girls are sighing collectively as they discuss what shops to check out next.
Hearing this, Mahira's face turns a pale shade of blue.
Mahira: (Dolls aren't exactly in fashion, and I'm giving the same one to everyone...)
Mahira: (Are they all going to see Clucky-Dolly as a bad present?)
Mahira replays in her head a snippet of the girls' conversation.
Patron 2: Oh, what to do... I can already picture her disappointment if I pick out a weird present.
Mahira: I don't want to see them disappointed. There's only one thing to do.
Mahira: I'll have to tour the shops again to buy the perfect presents!
With those words, Mahira gets up from her seat.
Having left the cafe, she does not hear the remainder of the girls' exchange.
Patron 1: I have to say though, it's actually kind of fun to agonize over the ideal presents to give.
Patron 2: That's for sure. In the end, I think what matters is that we tried to pick out something nice.
Mahira: Oh, what to do...
Mahira: (Books are a no go. Especially not technical ones, which they probably wouldn't understand anyway.)
Mahira: (And not everyone's a fan of illustrated storybooks...)
Mahira: (Maybe handy items like a knife or feathered pen?)
Mahira: (But even Lunalu, who's big on stationery, says she's already loaded with the stuff.)
Mahira: (On the other hand, getting a present so far off from your interests is no fun either...)
Mahira: (I'm just going in circles now...)
Mahira: I can't give up so easily.
Mahira: I'm going to be the best Santa I can be and pick out the perfect presents.
Mahira: With a town as big as this, I'm sure I'll find something yet.
Mahira: Surely those presents are just waiting for me to find them.
Mahira musters the resolve to tour the town some more.
Mahira: Sniff... I can't find anything good...
It's getting late, and some places are beginning to close up for the night.
Unsure what to do next, a nonplussed Mahira stands still in the shadows of dusk.
Half-Baked Santa: Scene 3
Santa Claus shows up to console Mahira, explaining to her that rather than the contents of the present itself, it's ultimately the thought that counts. She reverts to her original plan of Clucky-Dollies and helps Santa out for the night. (Captain) and company are delighted to receive her dolls in the morning.
After an entire day spent searching for gifts more suitable than her Clucky-Dollies...
Mahira turns up with nothing. She walks ploddingly down the streets, which are now devoid of people.
Mahira: Sigh... What shame. It's almost time to head back and help Santa with the holiday gift-giving.
Mahira: I guess I've failed...
She tightly grips the ribbons in her hands as she blames herself.
Just then, the sound of jingling bells can be heard in the distance.
Santa Claus: Oho, there you are, Mahira. I was looking for you.
Mahira: Santa... What brings you here?
Santa Claus: Some in your crew were concerned that you hadn't returned yet at this hour.
Santa Claus: I thought I'd help look for you.
Mahira: I see... Sorry for making you worry.
Santa Claus: Hohoho, what matters is that you're safe.
Santa Claus: You seem to be in low spirits. Did something happen?
Santa Claus: I'm not a bad listener if you'd like to talk about it.
Mahira is receptive to Santa's sincere tone.
Mahira: I experienced firsthand how difficult it is to pick out good presents. It's something I'd never really thought about before.
Mahira shares the exchange she heard at the cafe about bad presents, which sent her into a downward spiral.
And about how she failed to find any presents more suitable than her Clucky-Dollies.
Mahira: If you don't mind me asking, Santa, how do you pick out presents that every child will be happy with?
Mahira: As much as I thought about it, I couldn't figure out what a perfect present is.
Santa Claus: I use a very different method from most people for choosing presents, so I don't think it'd be much help...
Santa Claus: I do think I can offer some advice, however.
Mahira: Really? I'd love to hear it.
Despite the desperation in her voice, Santa responds with a casual smile.
Santa Claus: For starters, Mahira, there's something much more important than the present itself.
Santa Claus: And that is all the time, effort, and thoughtfulness that goes into preparing the present.
Mahira: So you're saying it's the thought that counts...
Santa Claus: Absolutely. If it's a present you put your heart into picking out, I believe the lucky recipient will be able to sense that.
Santa Claus: To give you one example, look what's happening with that family.
Santa points to the window of a nearby house.
Patron 1: ...
Patron's Family: ...
Mahira: She was at the cafe earlier...
Santa Claus: Well, Mahira? Anything about that family stand out to you?
Mahira: I can't hear what they're saying, but they definitely look happy.
Mahira: She sounded so worried this afternoon... I wonder if she found the perfect presents.
Santa Claus: I doubt it. Their situation is probably a lot like yours, Mahira.
Santa Claus: Those smiles couldn't be more genuine. They can all feel the love that went into those presents.
Santa Claus: And that love is what really matters in the end.
Mahira: I see...
Mahira mutters under her breath, gripping the ribbons in her hand tightly.
Mahira: I made a bunch of Clucky-Dollies, hoping they'd make the crew happy.
Mahira: They complimented on my outfit being really cute and fluffy, so I thought they liked cute and fluffy things...
Mahira: Do you think they'd be happy with my gift?
Santa Claus: There's no way they wouldn't appreciate a painstakingly crafted present from a dear friend like you.
Santa Claus: I'm sure that somewhere deep down, you understand that much better than I do.
Mahira nods affirmatively.
Mahira: Yes, I've definitely gotten to know them better through our travels together.
Mahira: Santa. Before I head out with you, is it all right if I go back to wrap up my Clucky-Dollies first?
Mahira: Our departure might be delayed a bit, but I promise to do my best in return.
Santa Claus: Not a problem. C'mon, I'll take you back on the sleigh.
Santa Claus: Once you're done, we've got a big job ahead of us!
Mahira returns to her room and neatly wraps up the dolls.
Shortly afterward, Santa's sleigh takes off with the lyrical jingle of bells.
Lyria's Voice: Good morning, (Captain)! You need to see this!
On the morning of the big day, the captain awakens to a pleasant knock on the door.
Lyria: I found this by my pillow when I woke up!
Lyria holds up a small, white Clucky-Dolly.
Vyrn: Me and (Captain) got one just like it! Tell her, (Captain)!
Lyria: Ooh, so we have cute matching dolls now! How nice!
Choose: We'll have to thank Mahira later.
Lyria: That's for sure! She worked late into the night though, so she might still be asleep.
Choose: Gee, who could they be from?
Lyria: With that smile written all over your face, I can tell you're kidding!
Vyrn: We'd better go thank her. 'Cept she worked late into the night, so she might still be asleep.
Continue 1
(Captain) and company scour the Grandcypher's halls in search of their little Harvin friend.
They find her curled up and sleeping soundly in a corner of the lounge.
Mahira: Cluck... Zzz...
Mahira: Hope they liked the presents...
Lyria: Haha, I guess our thanks will have to wait till later.
Vyrn: Yep. Let's bring her to her room for now.
(Captain) gently lifts Mahira up, careful not to wake her.
The grin on her face suggests she is having a pleasant dream.