A/N: I'm not going to lie; I honestly haven't the slightest idea what a festival in feudal Japan would be like. I did some (non-extensive) research on Japanese festivals, and combined that with my knowledge of festivals in Asia and America, and this is what you get. If it's terribly off, please let me know, and I'll try to fix it.
19: Festival
The festival was being held in the first district of Rukongai, and the streets were decked out in colorful decorations. People wearing beautiful spring kimonos were wandering around the various stalls and displays, while others played games or watched the numerous performances and shows that were going on.
"What do you want to do first?" Yoruichi asked Sakura and Byakuya, smiling at their eagerness. Byakuya was obviously trying to hide his excitement, wanting to seem dignified and mature, while Sakura bounced up and down, eyes shining with delight.
"Yoruichi-san, look! There's a parade starting soon!" She pointed down the street, where a procession could be seen in the distance. The beating of drums could be heard underneath the general racket the crowd was making.
Yoruichi followed the girl's gaze. "So there is," she said, grinning down at her. "Well, then I guess that's what we'll start off with, don't you think?"
Sakura cheered and darted off, beckoning for Yoruichi and Byakuya to follow.
They stood on the side of the streets, clamoring with the other civilians for the best view. Costumed people walked around, smiling and entertaining children and adults alike. Others sitting on carts rained sweets and flowers down on the crowds, while children scrambled around, eagerly picking up the candy. A dancing dragon followed, performing all sorts of acrobatic feats as drummers pounded out steady rhythms. Sakura picked up several sweets, offering some to both Yoruichi and brother. Yoruichi accepted a piece Sakura didn't like, while Byakuya declined any sweets, since he wasn't too fond of them.
After the parade passed, they decided to wander around the stalls and see all of the displays. One man was selling colorful coin pouches covered in intricate designs. Another was selling necklaces and other accessories, and yet another was selling ramen. All sorts of wares and food were being sold, and by the end of the day, Sakura and Byakuya were laden with various small trinkets, both carrying bowls of ramen. Yoruichi, her own bowl of ramen in hand, led them to a quiet corner where they sat and ate their meal.
Evening fell, and colorful lanterns were being lit all along the streets. Suddenly, a green firework erupted above their heads, soon followed by another. Soon the sky was lit with different colors, painting pictures in the night.