Chinese New Year Party

[machi_in_snow]

Machi wasn't thrilled to be at the Sohma temple. She wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for Yuki Sohma. He wanted Machi to attend his family's Chinese New Year celebration. Yuki really wanted a big party since this would be the first year in which the Sohma temple allowed outsiders inside the grounds for New Year's. Akito still wanted his

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[nerdherdchuck]

Chuck had spoken to Machi a couple of times but still was pleasantly surprised to receive an invitation to her party. He's quite amazed by the temple where celebration is taking place and takes a moment to look at it.

He then slips off his shoes and enters with a shy grin on his face.

[machi_in_snow]

Machi noticed Chuck from her place on the temple's steps. Being careful not to ruin her kimono, Machi made her way to him. "Hello Bartowski-san. I'm glad you were able to attend this party."

Machi blushed a little as she extended a rat plushie to Chuck. "It is the year of the Rat."

[nerdherdchuck]

"Hello Machi. Th-thanks for inviting me. This is...quite an amazing place!"

Chuck took the plush rat and grinned. "So it is," he said. "He's cute. Thank you for the gift."

Chuck then pondered for a moment. "I'm trying to remember what year it was in the zodiac for me when I was born. September 1980...that makes me a Monkey, right?"

[machi_in_snow]

"You're welcome, Bartowski-san. I am glad that you came. This is the first time this temple is open to the public."

Machi thought it over about the animal sign. "Yes, you are a Monkey. Maybe we can ask Ritsu-san about your fortune later. Speaking of which, we have some talismans if you want any. There is health, wisdom, love, good luck and many others."

[nerdherdchuck]

"Oh wow."

Chuck thought for a moment. "I dunno which one to choose. I kinda don't have the greatest luck. And love, well family love is very strong. Romantic is...kinda complicated. But you're nothing without your health so...um...any suggestions?"

[machi_in_snow]

"I think health would be best. I get the feeling that there are a lot of people who worry about you. At least with a health talisman, they have one less thing to worry about."

[nerdherdchuck]

Chuck swallowed, thinking of recent events. But of course, there was no way he could tell Machi about nearly being locked away for his own safety. Instead he nodded a bit sadly and answered, "Yeah, there are a few people who do. Thank you for the suggestion."

He looked a bit puzzled at the talisman and asked, "This may be a silly question, but is there a special custom involved to taking one or wearing one or anything?"

[machi_in_snow]

Machi noticed the sad look but she wasn't sure if she should say anything. She decided that if Chuck wanted to talk about it that he will.

"There isn't really a custom to the talisman. You just need to either carry it or hang it somewhere you can see it in your home."

[nerdherdchuck]

"Oh, okay," Chuck smiled and continued. "I'd probably hang it in my room then. Then I could see it a lot. I'm usually there playing video games with Morgan and stuff. Ever play any of them?"

[machi_in_snow]

Machi giggled. "We're in Japan. You can say that playing video games is popular around here."

[nerdherdchuck]

Chuck smiled. "I know. But not everyone likes them. I mean, some people think I play them way too much."

[machi_in_snow]

Machi returned the smile. "I understand. Unless you are spending 20 hours or more playing video games, it couldn't be too much." Machi blushed. "I tend to stick the more girly games myself."

[nerdherdchuck]

"No, not that long. But some days Morgan and I can play for awhile. Especially when we get new games," Chuck replied. Then seeing Machi blush about the type of games she liked, added, "No worries. Everyone has their favorite types of games."

[machi_in_snow]

Machi smiled. "I understand. It's important to have fun with your friends like that. Bartowski-san, would you like to burn some incense for your ancestors? I can lead you to the place if you wish."

[nerdherdchuck]

Chuck thought for a moment. "M-my parents...they left Ellie and I some years ago. We never really found out why. But, I definitely...it's good to celebrate, I mean, the others in my family. Please lead the way."

[machi_in_snow]

"I understand about having issues with your parents. The Juunishi and I have issues with our parents as well. However, the people who are close to us and cherish us can be considered family as well. We should remember that 'family' doesn't just mean blood related."

Machi bows slightly. "Please follow me then, Bartowski-san. I shall lead you."