Author's Note: I know I have another story going on right now, but I thought this would make kind of a cute story. I have been attending Obon Festivals pretty much since I was born. I apologize if any of the terms or facts are wrong, it's just what I've come up with based on experience. Just to reply to Lya200's question, no this isn't related to the Titanic, it's just a cute title my friend came up with :) I'm not quite sure where this will be going but I hope you enjoy!

Nya's POV

It was a warm, perfect evening. The sun was setting on the horizon, casting hues of red, orange, and maroon into a gorgeous sunset. Despite the occasional honk of a horn and the buzz of the city, it was a quiet evening – soon to be disrupted by a group of rowdy teens I knew all too well. "In five… four… three… two…"

"WOO HOOOOO!" Kai, Jay, Cole, Zane, and Lloyd were in the game room on the Bounty after dinner, relaxing with some video games. I grinned to myself and shook my head at their immaturity. But, they were family, and even though we weren't related by blood, and they could be difficult to be around, I had a soft spot in my heart for all of them. As I finished cleaning up, I remembered something I needed to tell Kai, so I headed to the game room to make my announcement. I stopped in the doorway. "Hey Kai, I ordered our two lanterns for the Obon Festival being held in Jamonicai village two weeks from now."

"Ohh, Okay. Well… Uhm… Can you give me the details tomorrow morning? I'm kind of in the middle of something," Kai said in a distracted tone. I rolled my eyes and tried to put on an air of indifference but it hurt me a little that Kai didn't care about the festival. After all, we had been going to these festivals almost since we were born and they really meant a lot to me. I was about to turn away when Zane spoke up. He wasn't playing games since we only had four controllers and he was waiting for his turn.

"Wait Nya. I have heard of an Obon Festival before but have never attended one. What exactly do you do at an 'Obon Festival?'"

"Well, I'd be happy to 'give you the details' Zane," I gave Kai a glare, who didn't notice because of the intense gaming. "An Obon Festival is a traditional Japanese event that features a lantern ceremony, dances, food, and games. The lantern ceremony honors the dead. Paper lanterns with the name of the deceased are lit with candles and are carried out to the ocean where they are set afloat. It's really beautiful with the lanterns floating on the water with a sunset in the background. Then there are Obon dances with taiko drums that provide the beat. People go really all out for these. I have my own special kimono I wear along with a fan and hair ornaments. Our mom has taken us every year since we've been able to walk. And when our parents passed away, we carried on the tradition and instead of having just one lantern, we have two – one has the name of our four grandparents and the other has the names of our mom and dad. It can be a little sad, but it's also so much fun. The food is fresh and there's music and games and I always enjoy myself."

I turned around after finishing my brief lecture to find the rest of the Ninja crew listening intently. Even Kai! I just had to laugh at their faces. Their faces immediately became confused, so I had to explain between gasps for air. "If you guys paid that much attention to Sensei when training you guys would be a lot farther along." The guys made another face, which made me double over with more laughter. Kai stood up from his spot on the floor and moved to stand next to me. Along with his familiar eye roll he said, "Well this is really a fun family event and since you guys are technically our family now, I think it would be "appropriate" for you guys to come with us."

He looked down at me and my smile got even bigger. "Yeah! It would be fun! I know you guys would love it." Lloyd didn't seem too interested and his attention had started to drift back to the video game on the T.V. screen. Kai must've noticed too because a smirk appeared on his face and he called, "Hey Lloyd! They have homemade candy you can buy and a cotton candy machine!"

Lloyd immediately snapped to attention. We all laughed at his eagerness. I could tell this would be the best festival ever!

I hope you enjoyed the first chapter. Please review - it's very much appreciated!