Day at the races!

[indigo_league]

Who: Everyone!
Where: Moo Moo Farms
When: Saturday, March 20th
Summary:



The day is as lovely as you can expect any early spring day to be. You'll need a coat, yes, and there is a bit of a breeze, but the sun shines happily onto the wooden buildings that make up the Moo Moo Farms where we have all gathered today.

The various farm workers have worked hard to make their farm presentable to the public. Cheerful banners hang between the various sheds, stables and barns, which all have been given a bit of a cleaning (and perhaps a new coat of paint here and there). Of course, it is still a farm, so perhaps don't wear your very best shoes, but as far as farms go, it's been made as neat as can be.

And while the main draws of the day may be releasing the Miltank herd out onto the pasture again after a long winter inside -- whimsically called 'Cow Ballet' on the info sign -- and the Great Tauros Race, Moo Moo Farms has set up various little events and booths to entertain their guests, and perhaps teach them a thing or two about farm life.

A large information sign stands at the gate to the farm, letting visitors know what sort of events are taking place, as well as where and when these are happening. The two big ones -- the Miltank Ballet and the Tauros Race -- are spaced in such a way that people can easily attend both, and most of the other little events are available throughout the entire day.

The Miltank Ballet will be taking place at 1PM over by the big barn. There is little you can do to participate in this (unless you are a cow?), but if you want to watch some ecstatic Miltank dance through the mud and grass after a long winter inside, you should definitely come check this out.

The Tauros Race will start at 4PM (sign ups close at 3PM) and anyone who wants to help give the Tauros a good round of exercise is encouraged and welcome to sign up. There is, according to the sign, a small mystery prize to be won, but surely we are all here because we want to help some cooped up Tauros, right?

In addition to those two big events, two paddocks have been made ready where visitors can test themselves against a Bucking Bronco -- that's his name, Bronco the Bouffalant -- to see how long they can last in the saddle. Due to safety concerns, participants for this event will need to be 16+. For the children, there is a separate rodeo in which they can ride Vaquero the Dubwool, who, for all his seemingly wild behaviour, is actually a very well trained Dubwool who'll make sure no harm comes to the kids.

Of course, while people are free to bring their own food, the Moo Moo Farms have also set up a wide variety of booths where people can buy anything from fresh Moo Moo Milk and milkshakes to freshly made cheese and bread, and oh, is that apple pie? That most certainly is apple pie, as well as various other homey pastries. And as the day goes on, and people might start craving something a little less sweet and more filling, a booth opens up selling various curries. Don't worry, there won't be any Snorlax you need to share with this time!

And for anyone who has found themselves wanting and craving a bovine of their own after all these cute sights, you are in luck! Amidst the various booths, there is also one run by two cheery farm girls, advertising a sale on eggs! All the eggs that are normally available from the Moo Moo Farms can be bought at a whopping 50% discount. Mind that this is only on the purchase price of the egg itself. The price for any additional egg-moves remains the same.

There are also some other, smaller things set up, such a station where you can learn about milking a Miltank and a barrel where you can bob for apples, and even a horseshoe toss game. Most of these are definitely aimed towards teaching and entertaining little kids, but nobody will stop you if you decide to muscle past a row of Youngsters to claim the apple bobbing barrel.

Comments

TAUROS RACE

[indigo_league]

If you are participating in the race, this is where to comment. A list of race obstacles will be posted soon. For each obstacle (seven in total), your character has the option of detouring around the obstacle (A) or somehow overcoming/crossing it (B).

If you choose to detour around it, you need only say that. If, however, your character chooses to take the obstacle on, we'd like a little explanation of how they will go for it. Be creative! Maybe your Tauros has a certain ability that helps you get by this hurdle in the road. Perhaps you have thought up a good plan in advance. Or perhaps your earlier scouting of the track gave you some insight information that will help you deal with this little problem.


For example.

00. While racing along, you notice the race track is barred by a small group of women. Their short, identical haircuts seem to bristle with anger, their phones glint in the sunlight. It's a cabal of Karens, and they would all like to speak to your manager right now over organising this race. What do you do?

If your character would detour around this obstacle, all you need to fill out is

00. Detour.

If your character is meeting this obstacle head-on, simply explain how they handle it.

00. Bovine are known for their methane production AKA fart stink cloud to chase away the Karens.

The way this will be judged is that we will look at your provided strategy, as well as your Tauros' full profile (which will be revealed to you when we start judging!) to see how successful your attempts were. Detours, naturally, will add to your time, but on the other hand, a very unsuccessful strategy might take just as long.

ICly, the race will take place on the 20th, but we won't judge the entries until Friday the 26th, so players have until then to comment. Should all participants have submitted their race strategies before Friday, we'll get to judging earlier!

(frozen comment) RACE OBSTACLES

[indigo_league]

As 4 PM nears, and excitement for the big event builds, the riders and their Tauros are guided towards the starting line. Excited onlookers have gathered against the fences and are cheering for their favourites. Unfortunately (for you, at least) most of the riders aren't really well known, so instead, it's the Tauros' names that are being shouted in encouragement. Oh well. This is fine. You didn't come here for the fame and fortune, right?

At exactly 4 PM, one of the youngest farmer workers hefts a sizeable mallet to an equally sizeable cow bell, and with a ding, the race is off!

As the air fills with dust and the sound of dozens of hooves, we can see certain Tauros pull up ahead while others linger behind. But this is just the start. Everything can still happen. Speaking of things happening --

01. Should've brought your galoshes.

The first obstacle can hardly be called glamorous, but considering the time of year, it's hardly surprising -- it's mud; a muddy field to be exact.

The dry track suddenly veers into a field that practically looks like a bog if you go by the amount of mud and dreck. It's hard to gauge just how deep the mud is, which leaves you with a choice: will you be going on ahead and storm through the muddy field, risking a slip and slide or even your mount getting stuck in the muck? Are you playing it safe and taking the somewhat longer detour around the field? Or do you have yet another idea in mind?

Congratulations, you've conquered the Mud. It's supposed to be good for your skin, you know! Though if all obstacles are going to be like this, you'll need about five showers when this is all done. Ah, speaking of water --

02. Just around the river bend.

Maybe the people who set up this race were present at last year's race as well. At the very least they seem to have taken inspiration from some of the obstacles encountered then.

Which means here is going to be a river to cross.

So, how will your ford the river with your ox(en)?

The river itself is pretty swollen with water -- probably from all that melted snow -- and there is a decent current in it. You could thunder right on through if you are confident your Tauros is up to the task.

Alternatively, there seems to be a bridge there too. Unfortunately, said bridge looks like the sort of thing you'd find across a large ravine and it doesn't look like anyone has been bothering to do much upkeep on it. But maybe it only looks rickety and like a death-trap? Maybe it is actually really sturdy?

Alternative to the alternative, there must be another bridge around here somewhere? Maybe it is better to go find that?

Well... a river bath is sort of like a shower, right? Hey, no time for complaints, or you'll trip over the next obstacle. Literally.

03. Step it up!

Someone really should've warned you about this.

As you thunder down the track, you are suddenly faced with the absolutely very worst in obstacles any bovine could be forced to deal with. It's…

It's….

It's stairs.

Okay, stairs is perhaps a bit overselling it, but before you are several long steps that need to be conquered if you want to continue on your way. And that it will be a conquest is very clear from the way your Tauros starts slowing, hesitating at the sight of what might very well be the Mt Everest for cattle. Can you coax your bull up these few steps? Will a detour be necessary? Any other bright ideas? Just ledge us know what you will do.

Congratulations, you've solved our stairs puzzle. Don't get too complacent just yet though. The worst is yet to come!

04. What's the buzz?

It's always bees, isn't it?

As the track turns to pass through a forested area, the air grows heavy with the sound of buzzing. Anyone who isn't immediately make a beeline in the opposite direction at the sound of so many tiny wings beating will soon come face to face with a massive swarm of Combee, all dancing through the air and crawling over branches, accompanied by a Vespiquen that you can tell, even from a distance, looks rather agitated. It looks like these pokemon are searching for a new hive, and you don't need to be a biologist (Bee-ologist?) to know that a galloping herd of Tauros showing up is probably not going to lead to a calm encounter.

So, what do you do? Are you taking your chances? Can you outrun the bees? Got any other brilliant plans? Or have you already turned tail and are choosing to find a detour?

Good news, you're more than half way. Bad news, uh, look ahead...

05. Pollen

Your throat is dry. Your nose is runny. There's something in the air... something yellow...

Oh.

Oh no.

It's pollen.

Blowing in on an otherwise-fresh spring breeze is a hazy cloud of allergies and plant fertility, along with dozens upon dozens of Eldegoss, Jumpluff, and Skiploom. The Grass-types are having a great time, calling to one another as they waft on the wind and spin through the sky. No doubt they have something to do with this.

Unfortunately, this is a problem in more ways than one: visibility is a bit hampered, as is breathing, and don't even think about using Fire-type moves in these conditions. Unless you're trying to set the air on fire?

Please don't set the air on fire. We're literally begging you not to do that.

After hopefully not setting the air on fire (again, we cannot emphasize how much fire is not the answer to pollen problems), we are nearing the end of the race. A good thing, because you can feel your Tauros slowing a bit. Which allows you to spy from the corner of your eye --

06. Not the brightest pokemon in these woods.

This is not actually an official race obstacle, but as you thunder down the track, you will suddenly be able to spot it in the woods.

It's... Is that a Sawsbuck with a lamp stuck on its head?

Yes, it is, in fact, a Sawsbuck with a lamp stuck on its head. How? Why? These are answers you don't have. What you do have is a split second to make a choice -- are you going to help out this poor, dumb creature, or are you going for victory? Or can you think of a way to do both? Mind you, that Sawsbuck is probably not going to just calmly wait for you to help it out. You know how skittish wild pokemon can be.

After helping that poor dear... deer? (or not helping, perhaps that deer should learn to pull itself up by its hoofstraps), we are very nearly at the end of this exciting race. Only one thing stands between you and victory. And it's --

07. It's my picnic party (and I can race Tauros if I want to)
You are nearly at the home stretch when up ahead appears the worst enemy of any Tauros-jockey: little girls.

Well, okay, it's not the girls themselves that is the issue. We are all sure these are perfectly fine little girls, who perform well in school, do their chores, and treat their pokemon with lots of love. No, the problem is what the little girls have with them: baskets upon baskets full of delicious picnic foods.

It seems the nice spring weather hasn't just drawn out cows, but it has also inspired the local Scouts group to have a very nice picnic outside. Unfortunately they've chosen an unclearly marked section of the track for their picnic, and doubly unfortunately, they are absolutely laden with good delicious food.

Food that is probably very appealing to the Tauros you are riding on, what with how they've been running for a while now. What to do? Have you got some way of getting through this obstacle (preferably without absolutely ruining these girls' day), have you got a detour in mind? Something else? Better think quick!

One way or another, you've done it! The finish line draws ever closer, and you can barely hear anything over your ride's heavy breathing. Well, whether you are in first or in last or somewhere in between, at the very least, these Tauros have all been very well exercised. Congratulations!


<B>Character:</b> NAME HERE <b>Tauros:</b> NAME 1. - 2. - 3. - 4. - 5. - 6. - 7. - <B>Anything else:</b> Here you can note anything else that you think might be relevant to the final race results.

Dimitri and Milkshake

[nastyboy]

Character: Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd
Tauros: Milkshake

1. Mud Pit
So. Dimitri is already going to show up at the starting line already covered in mud. He had a chance to either clean himself or his Tauros and he chose the latter, because he kind of suspected that this would happen after he had the pleasure of hanging around Milkshake before the race.

So when he sees the mud bog right there ahead of time, right out of the gate... Dimitri is going to serenely accept this L, and tug on Milkshake just enough so that they can pull over to the side as they reach the mud pit. This is to ensure no one goes tripping over them, and also so that Dimitri can get off of Milkshake so that his beautiful steed can have a roll.

He cannot stop this. So he accepts it.

While Milkshake enjoys life, and mud, Dimitri is going to just... tromp through the mud while encouragingly calling out to Milkshake to try and roll THIS way, the mud is SO nice over here! This is to encourage Milkshake to go down the field of mud instead of, like. too much wandering. While Milkshake does whatever he darn well pleases, Dimitri will just start... stuffing mud into his pockets? This is undoubtedly going to splash more mud all over himself, just fucking, head to toe, no doubt, but listen.

It's fine.

Hopefully after having convinced Milkshake to roll straight down the mud field instead of horizontally, or in patterns, or anything else, Dimitri will coax his Tauros out of the field, and get back in the saddle.

He's starting out at a disadvantage, and both of them look more mud than living creatures, but that's fine! Wouldn't be the first time Dimitri has ever existed in this state, to be honest.

2. River Run
So. Dimitri knows that his friend here is probably gonna be real disappointed about washing off the mud he JUST got.... and also, frankly, Dimitri suspects they might get sidetracked by any mud near the water's edge. So he's going to steer Milkshake up to that bridge - hopefully where anyone ahead of them has already taken out some of the more unsturdy footing. That would mean Dimitri would have a better idea of what planks are sturdy or not.

And for those that aren't... Well, Double Team is meant to evade attacks, normally, but maybe it can help avoid busted planks too, and get them across the bridge quicker!

Here's the hoping.

3. Stair Steppin'
Dimitri gets it, buddy. He really does. Steps are scary, and your hooves are so small while your body is so big! They're not meant for this sort of thing. It's scary.

But as Milkshake starts to slow at the sight of the stairs, Dimitir leans down to whisper in his ears...

"There is going to be so much nice mud after this, and we will not have to clean any of it off."

As an additional and more Immediate treat, Dimitri will promise to take some of the mud from his pockets and rub it behind Milkshake's ear when they reach the top of the steps (while they're still moving, of course). Won't that feel so nice, buddy? That, and the knowledge they surpassed some of the other Tauros?

4. Bee Seeing You
Oh, time to bust out his royal pedigree. Kind of.

Dimitri does not encourage Milkshake to slow down at the sight of all those Combee and their Vespiqueen. If anything, he forces Milkshake to continue forging ahead. Hopefully Dimitri and Milkshake are still covered in plenty of mud, to help against any attacks, but if not... Well, Dimitri isn't going to change his course of action any.

Once they're close enough to the swarm, Dimitri gets up as high as he can on his saddle without, like, actually standing on it, and calls out in his best diplomatic voice to relay the following, as loudly and quickly as possible:

He pays respects to the resplendent and powerful Vespiqueen and asks for safe passage through her territory, in exchange for a delivery of fresh delicious MooMoo Milk (from his own girl, Gabby) and a talented scout who will find new flowers for their honey making (Desta the Budew).

If he can get it in real quick, he'll also ask her to please block the other Tauros riders. Pretty please!

If this works, great. (And Dimitri will 100% come back to fulfill his promise, because he's a god damn gentleman.)

If it doesn't, that's fine, he'll just cling as low as he can to Milkshake's back, and have the two of them just pray that Milkshake is fast and that mud is a good barrier. They got Double Team, they'll...... maybe be fine.

5. Pollen Peril
So here's the thing.

Dimitri knows Milkshake has a really good nose.

He has enough brain cells in him to understand that this means his beautiful steed might be really effected by the giant cloud of pollen they see up ahead. So Dimitri does his absolute best to steer Milkshake in the direction where the pollen looks thinnest, leans back to take his jacket off to put around his waist, and just. strips his shirt clean off of his head.

This is because he's going to, as quickly as possible, cover Milkshake's eyes and nose with his shirt to try and mitigate the effect of the pollen. He'll let Milkshake know that's his plan before he starts shoving cloth suddenly over his face, too, and yells out that he just needs to keep charging ahead! He'll help watch out for you, buddy, so don't worry! Just keep running! He believes in you!

6. Sawsbuck Savior
Dimitri is a bleeding heart, this is true.

However, after the effects of the last obstacle course, he might also be kind of. blind. and teary eyed.

He also might be permanently missing a shirt, after having taken it off of Milkshake's face to clumsily wipe away any of his steed's tears and then just. losing it.

Things happen during Tauros Racing, okay?

So it's not that Dimitri purposefully misses the poor Sawsbuck. He is a fan of Sawsbuck, with one being his and one of his boyfriend's children. It's that he's too busy scrubbing his eyes and sniffling and just trusting Milkshake to use Double Team and good sense to keep them from hitting anything.

When they swerve away from the confused creature, Dimitri will absolutely look around in confusion, still covered in tears, and probably still some mud.

7. Picnic Past
Now in much better condition with all those pesky tears and pollen out of the way, Dimitri is urging Milkshake to go for a huge burst of speed for this final stretch! They gotta go as fast as they can to make up for all the stumbles they made before (or, well, mud rolling), and Dimitri knows it. So he's encouraging Milkshake to go fast, and then hit even faster whenever they come up against another Tauros competitor.

And boy, is that picnic really tempting... Dimitri had lunch before this, and he can only imagine how hungry Milkshake is. But, exactly like with the stairs, Dimitri will promise him so much mud, they're almost at the finish line, buddy, mud and sweet treats while you lounge in the mud and isn't that what you really want?

To eat good food while in mud, instead of eating random stolen food from little girls, and being decidedly NOT in mud?

Dimitri will then use the rest of his pocket mud to slather it on good along the back of Milkshake's ears and head (so that it doesn't go into his eyes) and just urge him on.

Anything else: Win or lose, Dimitri is absolutely going to get Milkshake in the nicest mud pile he can find after the race. He is a man of his word.

When riding, Dimitri will make sure to hold on tight with his thighs and knees - he has experience riding horses, so he's using what's applicable to Tauros riding too. Unless for certain actions (ex. taking off his shirt), Dimitri will do his best to keep a hand on the Tauros saddle at all times.

Dimitri's priority in the first half of the race will just be getting him and Milkshake caught up with the rest of the herd so that they're in sight of the vast majority again. You know, after the Mud Times. After that, he'll be keeping in mind Milkshake's stamina, and save the real tests of his energy for the second half - especially so that they can overtake the others with Milkshake's competitive nature.

When they're around other Tauros, Dimitri will definitely make sure to have Milkshake use Double Team at good moments, both to disorient the other Tauros, and to make sure that Milkshake isn't likely to get hit or messed with as well. Dimitri has a good eye for battle, being a warrior himself, so he'll use it at the best possible timing he possibly can.

Izuku and Leonardo Dicowprio

[mightdoriya]

Character: Izuku Midoriya
Tauros: Leonardo Dicowprio

1. - Mud: Detour. Having witnessed this Tauros nearly fly into a frenzy after almost stepping in a comically small puddle, Izuku doesn't trust that a muddy bog won't be equally as mortifying and while he's a risk taker he's not going to put poor Leonardo through that. Time to see if there's any way they can get around it to avoid going through! It seems like the muddy bog is going to be crowded with bulls trying to muscle straight through or even get some playtime in, so Leonardo's aversion to anything semi-liquid may work to Izuku's advantage in that it won't serve as a distraction, at least.

2. - Water: Why is there so much water already? This obstacle is 500 times worse than the last one, what did Leonardo do to deserve this cruel and unusual punishment. So, plunging through the river along with the other Tauros is going to be a no-go. However, this time Izuku is going to see if he and Leonardo can brave that rickety bridge together...it's scary for sure, but this Tauros is light and nimble on its feet given how quickly and efficiently Izuku watched him flee from the dreaded H20. He is going to try and give Leonardo the best encouragement he can, telling him what a brave bull he is, just keep looking ahead and don't look down and Izuku promises everything will be just fine. Trust in those nimble feeties of yours. If it seems that Leonardo absolutely won't budge and refuses to try to cross even that way though, he'll try to find a more secure way across. He's not going to push the poor bull if his phobia runs too deep for even a bridge to save him.

3. - Stairs: No detours this time, Izuku is at least confident Leonardo will do well here. Remember what he said about him being light and nimble on his feet? That makes him a perfect candidate for making his way up the steps. Slow and steady wins the race, as they say, and being nimble and light makes for an even better performance even when the dreaded stairs are your obstacle. And the best part? NO WATER. Nothing can stop him now.

4. - Oh god, not the Bees: So the smart idea here would be to just try to avoid the swarm, right? Maybe take another detour or just run as fast as you can in the hopes that you'll get lucky and make it through unscathed. As simple as that would be, Izuku can tell that the moment the stampede gets to these giant bees it's going to be a bad time for everyone unless something is done. And Izuku, well. He's a hero first, and he's not thinking immediately about how he can use these bees to his advantage. He hasn't seen these Pokemon before, but it only takes one look at Vespiquen for him to know that it's not one you want to get on the bad side of. So what is Izuku going to do? He's going to have Leonardo work his charms and attempt to use Attract on the Vespiquen in the hopes that if she can be calmed down (or at the very least distracted), she can be lead away from the main path along with her Combee posse. Does Izuku have a plan for what to do after that? Well...not entirely? He doesn't mind as much if he loses time if it means creating a safe path for everyone including himself. All he can hope is that he'll be able to lead Vespiquen to a suitable new hive location before Attract wears off...and that's all assuming it even works. If it doesn't, then the best he can hope for is pressing forward, quickly. So they don't, you know. Suffer the wrath of the b e e s.

5. - Pollen: Not much can be done on his end about the pollen, unfortunately. Even if he had any Pokemon that could assist him he might not have thought to bring them along (is that cheating?), so he's simply going to try to carefully press forward in as straight of a line as possible until they make it through. He'll encourage Leonardo to try to keep his head low in the hopes that maybe the pollen will settle in the air the same way smoke does so that maybe he won't be walking straight into giant clouds of it. Part way through the trek, Izuku will realize that some of the Pokemon floating above are able to influence the tide of the wind and will try to call up to them and ask if they could kindly use those abilities of theirs to waft the pollen in a different direction long enough for them to pass through.

6. - This Poor Dumb Sawsbuck: There is no way Izuku is just going to barrel past a Pokemon in need and not try to help it. Even if it costs him the entire race, he'll stop his Tauros entirely and get off to see if he can calm the Pokemon down long enough to help remove the lamp. He won't rush it; if it needs to take its time to calm down enough to let him get near, he'll let it take as much as it needs. He will try the same Attract strategy first though to see if that helps to get it to calm down and come over, just to see. Izuku knows nothing about Sawsbuck and what their gender differences are or are not, and with the lamp on its head he can't see any potential antlers anyway, not that it even matters for Sawsbuck. It's worth a shot, right? Izuku may not have his Quirk here, but he's plenty physically strong on his own, strong enough that he's fairly confident that if the Sawsbuck will let him get his hands on it, he might be able to pull the thing off.

7. - Picnic: Upon realizing that he's going to crash through the picnic of a bunch of little girls who did nothing to deserve this, Izuku is going to attempt to distract Leonardo with some more tasty berries from his pockets. Surely those will be tempting enough to convince him not to go for the picnic, he hopes? He knows it's not picnic goodies, but they're so much more easily accessible than trying to ransack an in-progress picnic. Should that fail, he will do all he can to try to not allow Leonardo to go towards the little girls, he is not in the business of trampling innocent children alright.

Anything else: While Izuku's entry into this race happened due to misunderstanding, he won't intentionally be throwing the race or trying to lose (especially with Katsuki watching, do you think he wants to die?). He will still put in the best effort he can to win! But when it comes to crossing obstacles and coming up with ways safely around them, he isn't above losing time in those moments as opposed to just rushing through at the expense of Leonardo or any of the people/Pokemon they come across. It's all in good fun at the end of the day, and he'd sooner lose than someone get hurt over it. Or traumatized, if you're a hydrophobic bull.

He has no experience when it comes to riding animals, unfortunately, so he won't have any kind of leg up on the competition in that regard. It doesn't mean he won't try his damnnest to hang on to Leonardo like a particularly pesky flea, though. He's light and strong, surely he can hold on even if something happens. Plus, he trusts Leonardo not to stumble.

Leonardo da Vinci - OTA

[neverfinishanyth]

[Leonardo and his Smeargle, il Maestro, are wandering around the fair all day, sketching (or getting his paint-covered tail on) just about everything. They'll be around the Miltank Ballet, the food stalls, the Bucking Bronco, and of course before and after the Tauros Races. Leonardo's particularly focusing on the pokemon, the way they interact with their trainers, and especially the elegant dance of the Miltanks.

There's a few things any interlopers will note about Leonardo's drawings:

Firstly, his lines are clear and crisp. You can tell what time of day it is based on where the shadows are coming from and the length and thickness of the pencil strokes. The pokemon appear fully formed and rounded on the page.

And secondly, he's left-handed, and whenever he stops to make a note, it appears that he's writing backwards.

He's glad to chat while he works as long as you don't stand in his light, which is where you come in.]

artist meet artist

[ohmylord]

[Claudia notices him at the food stalls. She's got her own Smeargle--Ashley--with her and is munching down on a frosted apple turnover when she sees someone's sketching. So of course she has to go check it out! He's a fellow artist, whoever he is. She wants to see what he's drawing!

And once she does, she gasps!

Because she's seen sketches like this before! At the Met! There was one of a bear and another of a man's head and some studies for paintings!

Claudia's not a good student, not in the least... but she does know things about her special interests: mysteries novels, true crime, and art. Which means she knows who the sketching man is.]

Leonardo da Vinci...

[If Leo turns, he'll see a young woman of Japanese descent, somewhere in her teens, looking at him as if starstruck. Her long black hair hangs straight down and she's dressed in a vest, baggy shirt, leggings, and cowboy boots. Her chunky bead jewelry, painted to look like pokeballs, is almost certainly handmade.]

Claudia Kishi | The Baby-Sitters Club | OTA

[ohmylord]

Claudia's here for the snacks. Well and to have a fun day out and support all her friends who'll be racing. She's dressed really cutely, if she does say so herself, with a long baggy shirt with an abstract Tauros pattern, a fringed brown faux suede vest, leggings, cowboy boots, and her very own handmade jewelry, featuring chunky beads painted to look like various kinds of pokeballs. Her long black hair hangs straight down her back.

Claudia's also brought her sketchbook, because any day is a good day to draw, and sometimes she ends up wandering over to perch on haybales and just sketch away. Her drawings are fluid, with a nice sense of movement, and much better than you'd expect from someone of her apparent age. (Which is fourteen-and-a-half by now, but she can usually pass for fifteen, maybe even sixteen, despite not being especially tall.)

She's actually really proud of the study she does on the Miltank Ballet.

Otherwise she's over by the food, nibbling on homemade pastries and later snacking on a mild curry--basically the pokeworld equivalent of Vermont Curry. She does end up trying the horseshoe toss and doesn't do too bad, for all that she's bigger than most of the kids in line. But when it comes to Bronco and Vaquero she's much happier to just watch everyone else get thrown off.

When it comes time for the race, that's when Claudia busts out the glittery hand-drawn sign she's made especially for this, with spelling and translation help from Shinobu. It reads GO KIRISHIMA!!! on top and がんばって きりしま！！！ on bottom.

(She may have given Kirishima one of her paper-mache pokeball beads, strung on a piece of ribbon long enough to be tied around his wrist, as a favor for the race.)

haybales! art friends???

[fortuna_tenax]

[ It looks like Claudia isn't the only one here to draw things out, because on the other side of the perch is a certain goth girl. Amalthea, the Galarian rapidash, is out and curled up on the ground beside the bale, and is the only one to look up at Claudia- though she seems pretty friendly for a large unicorn that doesn't want to move!

Eventually, however, Amalthea nudges Jinx's knee to make her look up. ]

Oh- hey. Looks like we had the same idea...

Dimitri - FE3H - OTA

[nastyboy]

A - Fun and Games

Dimitri has most certainly not come here by himself. Not only does he have his friends and some of the traveling party with him, but he's also carefully selected the team that will be with him for this little excursion.

All of them are excited to be here, of course, and all of them definitely have their own ideas on how to have fun. Fortunately, along with being for children, it seems like some games are definitely made for both children and Pokemon in mind, or even just Pokemon. Fun!

Most of the time, Dimitri keeps Desta the Budew close to himself. She is just a tiny little creature, and cannot change this. However, one can find both of them at the Cake Walk - a simple little game where small children (and small Pokemon) walk in a circle of numbered squares that have been placed on the ground. When some music filtering out from a radio stops, they too have to stop, and the farmer running this particular stand calls out a couple random numbers. Those on the right numbers get prizes!

There to have a Pokemon participate as well? Or participate yourself? Strike up conversation with Dimitri or his shy little Budew either way.

Some of his Pokemon are a bit more active, and Gwin the Swablu is a good example of this as he plays a nice game of Milk Bottle Knockdown. Perched on the counter, small enough Pokemon with ranged attacks are encouraged to give it their best shot. Knock down all the bottles, get a prize! Gwin does his best with moderated Ice Beam attack.... and, when he does not succeed, flaps his way over to angrily Peck at the bottles.

Or he tries, anyway. The stall operator and their Miltank are used to this sort of silliness, and the Miltank raises up a net on a stick to catch him before his attack can land. Dimitri gets his bird back as he does a lot of apologies.

Finally, Gremlin the Rattata is excited to be here, and especially excited to try a ring toss! Much like Gwin, he has to stand on the booth counter for this, because, well... Rattata limbs and size are not meant for ring tossing. This has not stopped Gremlin whatsoever. What he does is that he takes a ring into his mouth and spins around wildly before letting go.

Sometimes, this works!

Sometimes, he lets go prematurely and the ring goes flying at someone else instead.

Whoops.

B - Miltank Ballet

The primary reason Dimitri has attended this little event, however, would be because of his darling - Gabby the Miltank, with a little blue bow at the end of her tail. Of course the two of them go to see how the farm Miltank are doing.

Gabby's experience with other Miltank has been primarily when she had just been hatched, and got to watch Dimitri's match against Whitney. So to see other Miltank just happily romping around, and rolling in the grass... As the two of them watch on the other side of the fence, she gently tugs at Dimitri's leg and makes a small, gentle moo.

Dimitri doesn't need to think twice before he's leaning down, hefting up the young Miltank up into his arms. "Excuse me," he says to anyone else against the fence. He just... needs to get up there real quick, so that he can set his baby girl down in the pasture to meet other cows.

C - is for Cows

See, this is what Dimitri had really been interested in, ever since he heard that MooMoo Farms would be holding this kind of event. The second he hears that there's an area where people can learn how to milk Miltank properly, well - he had to go over. Of course.

And he brings Gabby along. Of course.

As people start gathering, he looks to whoever is nearest. "Do you have any experience with milking a Miltank? Or anything similar?"

D - Food

Dimitri doesn't only have Desta, Gremlin, Gabby, and Gwin with him. He has two other Pokemon as well... Which means quite a big lunch to get for all of them.

People who've made their way to a small picnic area near all the food stalls will find Dimitri having spread out an enormous picnic blanket - the pattern of which includes various frog-like Pokemon as the Froakie, Poliwag, and Croagunk lines in samurai gear.

Dimitri's Pokemon are all settled there, happily munching on all sorts of things. The remaining two Pokemon, Fraldariend the Galarian Ponyta and Donna the Mudbray, seem to have split a honey carrot pie, and are eating it together... the former doing his best to be dainty about it. Meanwhile, Gabby is doing her best to make some fresh jam sandwiches, and is feeding them to Gwin. Bless her heart, she's trying... but Gwin seems absolutely delighted to smear jam all over his beak and face in the process of eating. He looks pretty happy about it.

And then... There is the strangely vast amount of cheeses that have been gathered in a small basket. That has been set in front of Dimitri himself, sitting cross legged with Desta in his lap. Gremlin is digging through the basket, pulling out a large slice of cheese or small wheel and breaking off a piece to excitedly offer to owner and Budew alike.

There are other things, of course - another pie, bottles of fresh milk for everyone, sandwiches made of things that aren't jam - but everyone is preoccupied with what they got.

If Dimitri sees anyone wandering around, he'll smile over. "Are you looking for somewhere to sit? You are free to sit with us, if you do not mind."

E - Wildcard

[i'm not picky, if you got an idea, follow your dreams]

C

[mightdoriya]

Izuku had been wandering among the various activities and attractions with his little gaggle of Pokemon in tow, similar to Dimitri. Mighty the Eevee and Mirko the Buneary are on the ground following along with him, but Thirteen...the little Duskull still seems to have not wanted to let Izuku go, a trend that has continued since he hatched the morning before. It's actually getting a bit concerning, but he's not sure what he can do about it. That's why he's been trying to find things to amuse the baby Pokemon with in the hopes he will come out of his shell a bit.

The much larger Miltank are plenty to cause Thirteen to shiver and draw back initially, but Izuku presses on while giving them a healthy berth. He doesn't yet plan on participating unless Thirteen is comfortable with it. Maybe he'll warm up to them once they watch a few others interacting with the Pokemon.

That's when Dimitri speaks to him, and when Izuku looks over he doesn't immediately realize who it is he's speaking to. They only ever talked through text, after all. Dimitri should recognize Izuku though, given his post and Pokemon.

"Oh no...I mean, I'm familiar with cows, but I've never milked those either."

eijiro kirishima | bnha/mha | ota

[machismost]

Unlike his friend and classmate, Midoriya, Kirishima is eager to sign up for the races and thus finds himself standing in line. He has the brilliant idea to let some of his own farm-relevant Pokemon out for the occasion - Bulgogi the Tauros, Mochi the Miltank, and Ant the Mudbray - and set them apart as his by marking their hind-quarters with a red handprint stain made of Cheri berry juice. As the trainer of a particularly affectionate Ampharos, he always keeps a couple at hand and he figures this is a impermanent, safe way to dye his Pokemon's fur.

He does not think ahead to the part where other Pokemon might be attracted to the juice. Fortunately, his Machop is doing a fine job of keeping an eye on the tiny herd as they race back and forth outside the fences when the Miltank Ballet begins. Unfortunately he's not likely to intervene if something wants to dare try sampling the mark on Bulgogi, who gives a warning buck or snort of flames. No, Machop is just there to make sure the herd doesn't run too far and assure their safety. It'll be Kirishima running out of line to put a stop to things only to have to trudge right to the back afterwards. At least Mochi is friendly and having a fantastic time making friends with Moo Moo's collection and Ant is content to eat all this fresh mud respectively.

Kirishima, who seems to have never met a stranger, is prone to striking up some idle conversation with whoever is in line with him to pass the time and, of course, is eager to greet anyone he already knows.

Once he finally manages to get his name down on the sign-ups, it's time to check out the food on offer. Naturally, this means partaking in all the free samples he can manage to get short of breaking the 'take one' rule. Very few things can tug Kirishima's attention away from slaking his hunger, but fortunately for his Tauros-to-be, the temptation to partake in a curry before the race is demolished by--

Puppies! Kirishima almost sets off a small stampede with his own farm Pokemon when he beelines it for what seems to be a small petting zoo that showcases the various animals at Moo Moo Farms ( minus the bovines, who get their own little ceremonies ), including Growlithe and Yamper. It's probably more meant for little kids who already took the tour or are too bored by it, but Kirishima doesn't hold any predilections about climbing in and getting his pets on. Of course the Wooloo can only make him think of the sweet Mareep he'd had once upon a time - he was still sweet, he was just a good deal less wooly as an Ampharos now. And if the ground weren't so muddy today, he'd probably be rolling around on it with the puppy Pokemon. Naturally, he's soon counting his funds and chewing his lip at the egg booth, thinking about how to ask Bakugou about the budget when he sees the sign that says only one per customer.

"NO WAY!! HOW DO YOU EVEN CHOOSE?" He barks out incredulously, only to apologize to those who are also sharing the line with him. At that point he ends up trudging back to the pen and leaning against the railing, frowning in thought as he watches the Pokemon move about. Normally he might be able to justify one over the other if there was a type he was missing from his team but... he has both an Electric and a Fire type already. Ugh. This might have to wait until after the Tauros race is done.

Which, when it comes around to it, Kirishima will be riding in nothing but a pair of well-worn khaki cargo shorts, cowboy boots with a bucking Tauros he got from god only knows where, and a ribbon bracelet with a dangling paper-mache pokeball. Listen, at any given moment, Kirishima Eijiro is ready to pop his shirt off and spring has sprung!

Egg Booth

[mightdoriya]

Izuku isn't in the market for new Pokemon yet himself, or at least...no eggs. He has his hands plenty full with Thirteen, who is clinging to his neck like a ghostly scarf when he approaches Kirishima from the side of the line, careful not to make it seem like he intends to cut or anything. He just wants to talk to his friend while he waits, but he'd also be lying if he wasn't curious himself just to see what types of eggs were up for sale.

"What kind of Pokemon are you looking to get, Kirishima-kun?"

Izuku is still so impressed by just how many Kirishima and Katsuki have between them, and they're just getting more all the time. It isn't like Izuku doesn't already have several himself, but boy. Even three is a lot.

Also, hopefully Kirishima doesn't mind Mighty the Eevee and Mirko the Buneary bounding up after Izuku and up to Kirishima's ankles to greet him, Mighty weaving between his legs specifically.

Izuku Midoriya | BNHA | OTA (will match format)

[mightdoriya]

[As much as Izuku is glad for a chance at a real sort of respite with Katsuki and Kirishima along with him, he still can't quite shake the unpleasant feelings of needing to be elsewhere. Back home, specifically. Kirishima in particular seemed to be really excited about this event though, and honestly? Maybe he's right. He needs to just take today to not think about what he could or should be doing. He can't help it that he's here, and now he has a responsibility to take care of more than just himself.

Namely, Mighty the Eevee, Mirko the Buneary, and Thirteen the Duskull...who, upon hatching the morning before, has yet to let his trainer's neck go. This is the perfect place for the three youngsters to get out and play, and hopefully get used to other people and Pokemon too.

The Tauros Race is an immediate minor setback, namely because Izuku never intended to actually sign up. One conversation with an enthusiastic booth attendant later and suddenly he's on the list for the race, and well he can't very well back out now, can he? Someone standing nearby seeing him walk away from the booth might hear him mutter "What am I going to do now?" as he goes, mainly in reference to the ghost he can't convince to let him go. Trying to pry a fussy baby off is one issue, but racing on a Tauros with him?

The Miltank Ballet is at least a lot less stressful, namely because Izuku can stand behind the fence and watch with the others. Mirko and Mighty get to be held one in each arm so they can see over the fence, but especially because Izuku doesn't trust Mighty not to just run out in with the Miltank if left to his own devices...which already happened once, you might have been standing nearby when that occurred.

Later on before the race Izuku and his team head over to the food stalls for some lunch, namely to try the different varieties of curry up for sale. Apple curry is the kind he gets for himself and his three, carefully doling out smaller portions for each of them. Thirteen still seems like he's going to be difficult though, turning his face away when Izuku tries to offer him a bit of apple. He'll get hungry eventually he hopes...meanwhile the other two seem to have no trouble tucking in, Mighty's cheek fur already stained red. Mirko is at least a little less...aggressively excited about her food and isn't getting a drop on anything.

At some point while Izuku is handling Thirteen, he takes his eye off Mighty for one second and the little Eevee sprints...somewhere! That somewhere being one of the barrels where kids are bobbing for apples. Surely it's for little Pokemon to play too, right? He sure seems to think so, given the way he's trying to hop up onto the edge of the barrel. Eventually he'll manage to make it up onto the lip, but that's only half the battle...maybe you can rescue him before he plunges headfirst into the apple-filled water?]

the miltank ballet !

[fortuna_tenax]

Oh- hey!

[ She may have sneaked up on him on accident when she shows up at his side suddenly, but when you've spent your life as a ninja witch it... doesn't really turn off. If she notices, however, she makes no sign beyond a friendly smile. Her own miltank is following at her heels, though she seems to be hiding behind her trainer's legs. Eventually Berry will peek out and wave hello, however. ]

I don't know why I didn't think I'd see anyone I knew here. Having fun?

Jinx | Teen Titans (2003) | OTA

[fortuna_tenax]

[ You might stumble upon Jinx at any given part of the day, looking somewhat lost but excited. Given the lingering chill she's wearing a black sweater- it details a ribcage with flowers growing out and between the bones, because what is subtlety?- and one of her longer skirts and a pair of boots. Her hair is folded over itself with a black clip, bright pink as always, and a pink zubat backpack completes it.

The night before she had talked to all of her pokemon intently on possible crowding and size restrictions, and who really wanted to come. Ultimately, her Galarian rapidash opts to stay in the pokeball when it's particularly cramped, but her dusclops, appletun, and miltank are staying close but obviously curious, while an espurr and a meowth choose to stay in her arms or dangle off her shoulder.

Given her adoration for food, you may catch her at various food stalls, eagerly trying whatever there is to offer- it looks like she's fond everything so far. Maybe she's got some good recommendations! Or you can give her some yourself.

Or maybe you'll catch her and Berry the Miltank at the fences of the Miltank Ballet, where Berry moos out encouragement and joy to her fellow pink cows! Jinx is far more subdued but smiling fondly, petting Berry's head. Eventually she may go talk to one of the farmers about how to properly take care of the miltank... but if you've got any advice, she'll take it too.

At various points she'll also be sitting down in various places with a sketchbook, drawing the scenery or people- or just their outfits as they walk. If she's at a table she might even have a watercolor paint pallet out. She might be checking on a silver-haired boy her age, or one of the medieval knights as well... but mostly she's doing her art thing.

And when it comes to the Tauros Race, she's watching for sure- and laughing, because everyone is goddamn ridiculous. After, though, if she recognizes any of the contestants she'll wave... but. Might not approach immediately? ]

food

[machismost]

Hehhuy! Jyxsh!

[ Comes the sound of this redheaded fool with his cheeks going all chipmunk around a big slice of buttered bread. He gives a wave to her from where he is one stall down.

No one would blame Jynx if she pretended not to notice. ]

Shadowmaru | ota

[sassymaru]

Finally! A chance to go all out. It's a farm, and it's definitely not a place for fashion's finest, but since when does that ever stop Shadowmaru? Never, that's when. His hair is freshly dyed and styled. His outfit is also striking - glittering and purple. With grey cowboy boots. He definitely stands out.

He'll start off by watching the Miltank Ballet, leaning against the fence and cheering. Waving a flag he got from somewhere. There's a Sensu Oricorio on his shoulder, preening.

He will be in a similar position for the Bucking Bronco. Also cheering. Though, this time, his Frogadier will be watching too, waving two flags in support of the contestants.

As the day wears on, you can probably find him browsing the various Foods available. Maybe you have a suggestion? Or doing the same for the Games set up. All this time, his Growlithe will be out and bounding around his feet, sniffing excitedly about.

Bump into him anywhere! He's hard to miss.

Miltank Ballet

[nastyboy]

Dimitri used to have a wardrobe. You know, when he was a teenager, and hadn't been forced to live on the run because he was framed for murder for five years, and then transported into a world vastly different from his own.

As it is, nowadays, he's taken to wearing more practical things. Right now, that's a jacket, a simple tee shirt underneath, and jeans plus his Punk boots he was given upon arrival. He didn't think he'd really have to impress anyone at a farm.

Standing next to Shadowmaru after he's hefted his own Miltank child over the fence to play with her kin, Dimitri is starting to wonder if maybe he wasn't a little.... wrong about that. He can't help stare a little from the corner of his eye; it's a bit obvious since he only has the one.

At least he doesn't stay silent and awkward for long. "Were they... selling flags for the Miltank somewhere?" Dimitri asks, in the tone of someone who is heartbroken and concerned that he missed this fact.

Vinegar Doppio | OTA

[epitaffio]

[People who know what Doppio's real job is may be wondering if he is here in any Official Capacity (tm). The answer isn't exactly straightforward. Is he here on Rocket business? Not officially. Is he here because the Boss thought he should gather intel? Yes. Did Doppio come here because he just thinks it sounds neat? Also yes.

So, you know, a little bit of business, a little bit of pleasure. And it does mean he has some time before he gets wrapped up in the Race...]

Miltank Ballet

[Is Miltank rare? He's not sure. But there could be a couple of rare Miltank here, and besides, he's sure Whitney has one of those, so he should try to learn as much as he can. Yup, very productive reasons for him to be here watching some pink cows frolic!]

Look at them all carefree... Must be nice to come out and play after so long.

Bucking Bronco

[Several hours later, Doppio's snooping has gotten him into a bit of a Situation. Namely, you know, the Tauros Race.

He's done just about all he can to prepare, he thinks - he's mapped out as much of the track as he could in a half hour or so, and Moocifer is... uh... cryptic? It hasn't hurt him yet, but that doesn't mean Doppio managed to get much of anything out of it. Maybe he's just not cut out for interacting with bulls. ... Or maybe it overheard him asking the Boss "Can you see this? Does he look kind of naked to you too?" and got offended. Look, he's just hoping they didn't give him a sick Tauros or anything. That'd be just his luck.

But the point is, there is something he's not quite sure he can do yet, and he's not about to find out for the first time at 4 PM sharp. So, in the last few minutes he has before the race, he's come here for a test run that he hopes to be sufficiently accurate as to what he can expect from a Tauros.

At least at first. Within five seconds or so of getting on the saddle, he is very much hoping for the opposite. Have you ever wanted to see a man turned into a ragdoll? Because Doppio's lanky limbs are FLYING.

And after a minute or two of holding on valiantly, he goes flying as well.]

Food?!

[Also, throughout the day, a certain Morpeko will periodically sneak away from Doppio and steal snacks from various booths. He does try to keep an eye on Cristina, but when he's busy with other activities, such as race preparation or the race itself... All bets are off. Someone should probably do something about that.]

bucking bronco

[nastyboy]

[holy-]

[Dimitri has been watching from the sidelines, for the most part. Normally he would give this kind of thing a shot, but he has a race later on, and he wants to be in his best condition.]

[So he has a great view of Doppio ragdolling through the air like an indie game developer's first attempt at physics.]

[Unfortunately, Dimitri cannot gallantly catch him in his arms, because he's just... not over there. But he does come running over immediately.]

Doppio! Are you - [All right does not seem appropriate.] How do you feel!?

Lysithea von Ordelia | Fire Emblem: Three Houses

[deathknightdestroyer]

[ Admittedly, Lysithea might feel a little out of place at times. However, she's ultimately here for a good time and by God she will not be stopped. Her milcery- still unfortunately unnamed- floats around her shoulders and points to different attractions and games, while Chiffon the indeedee stays at her trainer's side loyally. At times you might see a ledian, aron, skorupi and litwick out playing beside her as well.

One may find her recording the Miltank Ballet on her gear while the ledian flutters around cheering on the joyous cows. Go, be free! Enjoy that mud and grass, ladies!

Or perhaps you'll see her at the food stalls staring in awe at the different sweets available. It looks like she's having trouble deciding which to try first. Got any recommendations?

You may also catch the young woman at the egg vendors analyzing the petting zoo showing all the different pokemon one may purchase. Only one per customer, hm? What a tough choice. Though, given that she's struggling to name her current pokemon, perhaps trying to care for an egg at this time would be a bad idea too? She's managing other than the names and her immense discomfort with the litwick who won't leave her alone but she's working on that but... Decisions, decisions.

When it comes time for the Tauros Race, you can for sure hear Lysithea cheering on Claude and Dimitri for sure! Some of her pokemon are also cheering as well, but they're at least trying to not get in anyone's way. If they do, Chiffon will happily lead them back to Lysithea however! Afterwards, however, Lysithea is going to have herself a seat and just people watch. ]

Egg vendors

[captainash]

This is just my opinion, mind you, but you can't go wrong with Miltank, Tauros or Wooloo.

[Today's spontaneous egg advice comes from a man in a black coat looking intently at the Ponyta and Yamper options. Next to him, a Miltank wearing a straw hat moos in greeting, looking somewhat bored.]

I bought Milky here years ago, and she's never failed me in battle or on the field.

Jane Crocker | Homestuck | OTA

[cyan_maid]

[You know what happens when you decide, oh, I'll just stick around to help some friends for a few days, and then they tell you there's something going on soon, and then you're going to meet them anyway at the end of the month for a thing, so you figure, hey, might as well stick around?

That's Jane right now. But she's not complaining - there's something nostalgic about being back at MooMoo Farms at the start of spring, and this time there's shops and little fun things to do, so she figures it'll be relaxing. Besides, some friends are entering the race! That'll be fun to watch!

You're likely to find Jane shopping at the various stalls, eager to bring back some fresh milk and cheese and bread. Hey, you can't get better ingredients than at the source, right? She's got Dinah out with her, the Audino inspecting each of Jane's picks with an attempt at seriousness, but she doesn't know what to really look for, so it's just kind of cute instead. Jane's also definitely inquiring about a Miltank Egg for herself. Baby cows, fam!

If she's not shopping, you'll see Jane over near where the Tauros Race will take place, chilling out and watching the Tauros get warmed up for their big event.]

Hm...I think I needed this.

[Needed what, exactly? Hm.]

[bestswordmaster]

[Felix runs into Jane near the food, where he's been sampling every curry that has meat in it one by one. He notices her at about the same time that she mutters to herself and steps closer, a little bowl of curry in his hand.]

The milk or the bread?

[If it were someone else, this might be a teasing joke. Felix is 100% serious.]

Are you planning to cook something?

Greg Universe | Steven Universe | OTA

[cometkin]

Greg's not going to be racing this year either. Sure, mounts have been provided this time, but the last time he encountered a bull didn't go very well and he doesn't really want to relive the whole chase. But that's fine! He's got some friends in the race. He can cheer for them instead.

There's plenty of other things here anyway. Like the food. The food is great and Greg's long since given up on worrying too hard about his waistline. He ends up getting one of everything and bringing it back to share with Rose and their pokemon.

The cow ballet is pretty fun too and after watching it for a while, Greg ends up turning his guitar around so that he can start playing a simple melody to go with the cows' dancing.

He'll play it again when he's busking later, his four Oricorios (one of each color) dancing in accompaniment. "Ruby Rider" too and then whatever else he can think of. He's a musician and there's a crowd. Busking is almost second nature.

[OOC: Warning for some S5 Steven Universe spoilers in the clip.]

Busking

[nastyboy]

Dimitri would never call himself a musical expert, or anything of the sort. In his life, before this place, he's only really been familiar with court musicians, songstresses, and the simple songs he'd overhear in pubs as he existed on his own for five miserable years.

Ever since coming to Johto, however, he thinks he's found a new appreciation for music. Everything from the simple mind numbing melodies that play throughout this world to things like Zuke's rock music... It's different. At best, it makes him feel things.

So when he catches wind of something entirely different from the usual background hum, of course he wanders over there with his own Pokemon in tow. It's not too much of a surprise to see Greg there... But Dimitri still smiles as he listens, giving a bit of money for Gabby so that the Miltank can toddle over with a Swablu on her head.

Akane Tendou | Ranma ½ | OTA

[uncutetomboy]

Akane hadn't been sure if she'd still be here for the Tauros Race, but Cassandra and Scorpia still at least one more gym left to do each and she really did want to go down Victory Road with both of them. They were her friends, after all, and they'd been helping her a lot since Connie had vanished.

It was so strange to think that she'd almost been here a year now.

The cow ballet is oddly pretty and she ends up leaning against the fence, watching it. Afterward, well, there's race sign-ups--given Akane's competitive nature, there was no way she wouldn't sign up--and getting something to eat, though it takes her a while to decide between the cheese curry and the decorative curry at the food stalls.

And then, since there's still going to be a while before they announce the bull assignments, Akane attempts to ride that Bronco--she figures she needs all the practice she can get with staying on a the back of an excited pokemon. Surprisingly enough, she manages to keep her grip on the Bouffalant long enough to not get thrown.

After the race is over, you can find her at the egg stand, visibly struggling with herself in her effort not to buy any eggs. After all, they'll be leaving for Victory Road before the end of the month. This isn't the time to get a new baby.

(That said, baby pokemon are always pretty cute and Akane is unfortunately Tempted.)

Egg Stand

[breakyourlife]

Steve's own struggle is of a different kind since he's already decided this is the perfect opportunity for him to acquire yet another Miltank. He doesn't notice Akane at first, too caught up in choosing which egg moves he wants for him to realize she's there.

It's only after he's made his purchase he turns and spots her, face heating up as he recognizes who she is.

"Oh, uh... hey."

Here's hoping she doesn't immediately freak out at the sight of him.

Steve Palchuk | Tales of Arcadia | OTA

[breakyourlife]

Food!

Of course the first stop at an event like this is the food. Excited as Steve is to meet the cows and enter the race, it's important to fuel up first. He's wearing his much loved Miltank hoodie for the day, adorned with badges proclaiming "BIRTHDAY MACHAMP" and "18 TODAY!" in bright, bold lettering.

Last year he learned a few tricks about playing birthday to his advantage, and it seems to be paying off today. He has a pile of snacks on a picnic table that is definitely far too much for one person. It's a good job he has his Tauros here to help!

Other Bessie is currently lapping up the very same Moomoo Milkshake that Steve's drinking out of with a straw. Neither one of them seem bothered to be sharing, but also... yeah. Gross.

Bucking Bronco

Maybe this wasn't the best choice of activities after a large helping of snacks? Although he managed to cling tight for an impressively long time given the fearfulness of his screams, it's probably for the best he was thrown off when he was. Steve looks decidedly green around the gills by the time he staggers back over to his own irritated looking Bouffalant.

Afro Bessie shoots a glare at Bronco as her trainer grabs her ruff for support, snorting angrily in his direction.

"S'okay, Bessie..." he assures he weakly. "Palchuk... never... dies..."

Although he sure does look like he's about to. If it weren't for his sturdy Pokémon he probably wouldn't be standing.

Miltank Ballet

This activity is a little easier on him, if not the Miltank he's brought along with him. Not that you'd know she wasn't just another one from the farm. She's taken to "dancing" among them as though she's always been one of the herd.

The only clue there might be something special about this one is the Gastrodon by his side who never seems to take his eyes off her. He doesn't seem interested in joining the dance himself, but his head follows every movement of one particular cow. It's a wonder he's not getting dizzy.

"You sure you don't want to join in? It is cow ballet."

And this pink blob is very clearly a cow.

Petting Zoo

Today he might be a man, but you're never too old for a petting zoo! Steve's in the middle of one pen, waist deep in excited Yampers. Sparks are flying here quite literally as the pups push and shove each other to get in for pettings, their fur rubbing up against each other.

Steve himself is looking a little staticky at the moment, laughing as he ruffles the fur of two very happy looking Yampers at once.

"You guys are pretty cute, huh?"

For Steven D & Thace

[breakyourlife]

After the excitement of the race, Steve is pretty worn out. Though, of course, not as much as his mount. After some well earned treats, Steve leaves the Tauros to his rest. Maybe Hay Fever will be refreshed enough to hang out again later, but for now he has his uncles to meet.

He's had to change out of his beloved Miltank hoodie, but there's still evidence of dirt on his face and in his hair. He also looks a little puffy from either bee stings, or pollen, or both. Still. He looks undeniably happy as he waves to greet Steven and Thace. After all, what better way for a cow enthusiast to spend their special day? And he still has more birthday to look forward to.

"Hey! Tios. Over here."

Lust |OTA

[a_sin_for_him]

A - Bucking Bronco

[The races are here again! Or races, at least. It's an excuse to dress up and get out, that's the important thing.]

[But currently, Lust is eyeing the bouffalant set up for endurance testing. She imagines she'd do rather well, considering her years of gymnastics and dance. Not that she's dressed for it, in her wide white sunhat heaped with purple flowers and feathers, or her neat white brocade jacket and matching ankle length skirt. Of course that's half the fun. More than, if she can use it to her advantage...]

I'll bet you a milkshake I can last on Bronco longer than you.

[The wager is offered to whoever happens to be standing next to her outside the paddock.]


B - Miltank Ballet

[It's the strangest ballet Lust has ever seen. She watches, head cocked, captivated by the frolicking cow Pokemon - at a safe distance, that's quite a bit of mud. They're certainly enjoying themselves...]

There isn't even any dancing music. They ought to play proper music for them.


C - Other

[Lust can also be found checking out the various food stalls, perusing the games, contemplating egg purchases, and just generally checking out everything the day has to offer.]

Bucking Bronco

[captainash]

[Ash takes a moment to consider the bet offered.

On the one hand, he's an extremely experienced Bouffalant rider, he's used to extremely vehicles, and he's wearing proper pants. On the other hand, it's unlikely Lust would have suggested it if she didn't have reasons to believe she can win. And didn't women go horse-riding in full fancy dresses centuries ago? The skirt might not be that much of a hindrance.

Oh well. Even if he loses, it'll be fun. His wallet can tank the hit if necessary.]

Sure, why not? Bronco looks like he still has plenty of energy to burn.

Morgan | Fire Emblem: Awakening | OTA

[disownedbytime]

A. So Much Food

"Uuuugh..." A young woman with a Mimikyu sitting on top of her head stumbles around looking vaguely unwell. She looks over to whoever happens to be closeby with a sickly sort of smile. "The food here is so good...but I think I ate too much." She winces, pressing a hand lightly to her stomach. "No, I definitely ate too much. But how could I resist? If I die, at least I'll die satisfied..."


B. Bucking Bronco

Morgan is eager to get up on the back of the Bouffalant, and she hangs on pretty tight, laughing with delight as she rides!...until the Pokemon bucks particularly hard, at which point she very obviously lets go on purpose and goes flying, her head thumping against the paddock fence. "Oof! Wow, I feel pretty woozy, haha!"

...she just lies there for a minute. Is she...okay? Why did she do that??


C. Milc-shake

After Morgan and Shake's prank worked so well on Leonardo, they decide to try it again! On whatever poor unsuspecting (or sharp and skeptical) person they happen to run into that they think might fall for it.

Morgan trots up to them with a full milkshake in hand. "Hey, I don't suppose you'd want this milkshake? I bought it for a friend but they didn't like it, and I'm too full for another one, but I don't want it to go to waste!"

...but only half of this cup is filled with actual milkshake. The rest is filled with a Milcery, who will burst up out of the straw as soon as the victim leans in to take a sip in an attempt to jump-scare them!

[schachmeister]

"A-are you okay?"

Armin had just been watching the bucking bronco rides, mentally shaking his head a bit at the idiocy of trying to ride a bucking bull, and yet at the same time, absolutely certain that Eren would have if he was here. All those thoughts are gone immediately though when he watches the latest contestant sail through the air and land against the fence. He's rushing towards her immediately, his hands opening and closing nervously.

"Stay still, you shouldn't get up immediately."

Grant Abaroa | OC | OTA

[woofdad]

As is usually the case when attending events with his ever-growing travel group, Grant’s first priority is making sure his kid is alright. Throughout the day, he’ll by staying close by Chip, always keeping them in sight.

Fortunately, that’s not much of an obstacle to both of them engaging with whatever interests them here, which is… a lot of things. It’s cows and fair food and cows, of course they’re both gonna be super into it.

Grant stands a ways back from the fence to watch the Miltank Ballet, making sure that he’s not blocking the view for anyone shorter than him, which will… probably be most people. In fact, he still has his attention divided between the cows and his surroundings to make sure to move aside as necessary if he’s still blocking anyone’s view - but he can still pretty much see, so it all works out.

When it comes time to make sure that he and his kid actually, you know, eat something (other than the funnel cake Chip is bound to stuff their face with), he can be found wandering among the food stalls for a while as he considers his options. He’s used to being frugal, including at events like this - which is leading to a lot of pacing from one stall to another as he considers what’s available and tries to make a decision. It’s not that money is even that tight for him here, but, listen. That doesn’t mean he can just make a choice with any kind of efficiency.

And then there’s the Tauros Race. Grant isn’t participating, himself, but he’s got to be there to cheer for Claude and Dimitri. And also, apparently, to just generally bear witness to… whatever it is that Dimitri is doing out there? Why did he put mud in his pockets. Where did his shirt go. None of these mysteries can dampen Grant’s enthusiasm, but they do mix some bemusement in there, and those nearby may hear him quietly say to himself: “What is he doing?”

tauros race go!

[bestswordmaster]

Felix is not actually all that interested in much of the goings-on here; he only came to watch Dimitri, Claude, and Geralt race. Afterward he's probably going to go get something to eat and then find somewhere out of the way to train with the team he brought, which includes Pan, Eisner, Oghma, Mahvash (who wanted to watch Claude race), and Alexandre and Loog (both of whom wanted to watch Dimitri race).

So Felix is seated next to Grant to watch the race, and he's been yelling things at Dimitri, Claude, and Geralt like a sports fan (not that he knows what that is)...until Dimitri starts his shenanigans. At the point when his boyfriend starts shoving handfuls of mud into his pockets, Felix can only stare at him. As a result, he can hear Grant's incredulous question, and he shakes his head, never taking his eyes off the spectacle on the track.

"Making a complete fool of himself, that's what he's doing." He facepalms. "And fools of us in the process."

Millennial Tree Cookie | Cookie Run: Ovenbreak | OTA

[purifyingroots]

Millennial Tree Cookie has observed plenty of fairs and festivals in his time, aware as he was of an entire continent’s worth of daily goings-on, but he’s never really had the cause or opportunity to attend one - making this a New Experience and therefore VERY exciting.

Earth Colt, it seems, could sense that excitement and was… a little concerned about it, given the apparent level of his Trainer’s judgement skills (near-nonexistent). So, wherever Millennial Tree Cookie goes around the farm, there’s an entire Mudsdale close behind him. That’s probably fine, and totally not getting in anyone’s way.

At least the two of them aren’t generally in the thick of things, as Millennial Tree Cookie is mostly interested in standing by and observing the proceedings with an oddly detached sort of amusement. It doesn’t stick out too much when he’s standing by the field to watch the Miltank Ballet, but he’s kind of bringing the exact same energy to observing the smaller activities and even the Tauros Race. He shows no interest in participating, and doesn’t seem exceptionally invested in things like the competitive aspect of the race, but he’s definitely interested in watching people participate. It just so happens to be in close to the exact same way that he’s interested in watching some cows roll around in a field.

And then there’s the rodeo. That gets some… just some gentle confusion mixed into his amusement as he stands by, one hand resting on Earth Colt (who has carefully placed his giant horse body between his trainer and the rodeo itself, just… just in case someone goes flying? Or Millennial Tree Cookie gets any ideas about getting involved). He speaks up softly, whether to himself or Earth Colt: “Short-lived beings seem to find such joy in taking risks… or at least the illusion of risk.” He supposes nobody is likely to be seriously hurt by the Pokemon, at least.

rodeo

[nastyboy]

Dimitri hasn't really heard too much from the sedate old man he knows entered Johto some time ago. Due to fortuitous timing, he managed to somehow is the post announcing MT was also a cookie when he wasn't busy being a tree, or else he also would have fallen apart at that when he was already in a pretty fucky state.

For now? For now he's just glad to see him in the crowd watching Bronco brongo, and Dimitri makes his way over. "We like to push ourselves to see what we can overcome," Dimitri says, cradling Desta in his arms as he approaches. Normally shy about people, she seems fascinated by the older man. "And there is a certain thrill to it as well - seeing if you can overcome the odds. Have you been doing well, sir?"

Claude von Riegan | Fire Emblem: Three Houses | OTA

[vrdantwind]

Miltank Parade

Listen, Gabby may be Dimitri's baby Miltank, but Claude is basically her second dad. As a result, when she comes toddling back after her excursion within the fence to meet the other Miltanks, Claude is the one who retrieves her - in the full confidence that Gabby will be just as happy with him as with Dimitri, and that Dimitri will be completely comfortable with Claude looking after her for a bit.

"Hey there, little lady," he says, scooping her up with a smile. "Did you have fun?" Gabby moos contentedly in response.

Claude and Gabby will be easy to find as they continue to spectate the Miltanks from the sidelines - Claude seated with Gabby on his lap, like a toddler watching a baseball game with her dad. She is absolutely the most precious little Miltank and you should definitely compliment the cute little blue ribbon on her tail.

Oh, yeah, and Claude is also there.


Bucking Bronco

In wild contrast to the peacefulness of earlier, Claude has sought out this wild Bouffalant with a gleam in his eye. He doesn't look like too much of a serious competitor when he steps up, either; Claude's not especially tall, certainly not especially broad, and looks like he could be quite easily tossed.

And then he proceeds to hang on until Bronco actually exhausts himself and has to stop for a breather. Then he slips off and out of the ring, grinning.

...look, when you not only ride wyverns (and now, in this world, pokémon) high in the sky, and sometimes make a habit of leaping off them only to land back on them again in midair, you develop thighs of absolute steel.

And to think Felix doubted that Claude's theatrics have practical skill-building purpose.


After The Race

Herbert Hoover, Claude's Tauros, is currently and eagerly devouring several of the most deluxe poffins Claude could afford, as per a promise (bribe) Claude made to get him to leave the picnicking girls at the end of the course alone. This is after Claude's given him a nice rub-down to deal with that pollen he made Herbert run through. But, while Herbert eats, Claude is actually paying attention to a completely different pokémon.

Cradled in Claude's hands, barely visible, is a Joltik who is preening for all he's worth, waving his little legs happily as Claude tells him what a good boy he did and how much help he was. Skittles here was one of Claude's forward scouts for the course; a tiny insect like Skittles couldn't really do much or get far at all into scoping out the terrain, but he'd wanted to help when Claude was speculating about scouting out the track and Claude didn't have the heart to turn him down. And, even though Skittles never made it any further than the very first obstacle(before Claude was obliged to have Wyvern go and carry him back, just so he'd arrive back before summer solstice), he'd still managed to bring back valuable intel and communicate it! It just goes to show, never underestimate the little guy. Both in general, and this specific little guy in particular.

If you're wondering who or what Claude is talking to in the cup of his hands, you're free to approach. You may be just in time to see Claude present perhaps the tiniest poffin you've ever seen to Skittles, all for his very own.

(It really only makes sense that poffins would come in scales suitable for a wide size variety of pokémon, when you think about it. Even in some modern-day worlds, people will go extremely out of their way to make tiny, intricate food for animals not nearly as intelligent as pokémon are.)


Wild Card

It's easy enough to find Claude all around the farm, really. Do you want to approach him while he's letting his team (currently consisting of Gambit the Galarian Ponyta, Wyvern the regular Ponyta, Remis the Arcanine, Sicily the Sawsbuck in his new spring coat, Blitz the Noivern, and a nearly invisible Skittles the Joltik snuggled on Claude's shoulder) romp in the fields? Find him sampling all the curries? He can and will try them all. Really, the only place you won't find him is at the egg stall; he just recently bought Wyvern the Ponyta here at the farm, so he's not even sure he's allowed to double-dip and he's not really looking to try.

Bucking Bronco

[gautsome]

Sylvain had... more or less been on the fence about coming to this whole thing. He hadn't bothered to enter in the end, but if the boyfriends are here, Sylvain will follow. It should do wonders in getting him out of his own head, at least!

And, well... It certainly does. Claude is attractive in most everything he does. But this? This is something else. Even after the ride is finished, and that poor Bouffalant is all tired out, Sylvain continues to stare, not unlike a man seeing the Goddess.

When he finally does make a noise? It's nothing more than a low whistle.

Ryner Lute :: OTA

[tearsofademon]

Ryner doesn't always make it to the big festivals. He's got a job to do, and travel is a lot, and he only has so much energy. But Moo Moo Farms is close enough to Ecruteak to only be a reasonable amount of travel, and besides, certain people have been trying to get him to socialize more, so why not, right?

So he's there, mostly just wandering about and observing the sights. He doesn't really have anything in particular in mind, though he will make sure to get himself and his Pokemon a good snack. By which I mean, splitting an apple pie. There might be some left to share.

(At one point, you might catch him being dragged over to the egg stand by his Clefairy, while he's grumbling, "Really, Rose, do we really need another partner?" Rose seems to very much think so.)

Of course, Rose did successfully harass him into signing up for the Tauros Race, so he'll be taking part in that. During that, you'll find his Clefairy, Absol, and Joltik all together, cheering him on from the sidelines. ...Or, well, Rose and Glen are cheering, at least. Jehra is mostly just watching.

...Or you can always catch Ryner after the Tauros Race, shaking his shirt out in an attempt to get enough mud, pollen, and possibly other grime off of it to make it at least somewhat wearable. He might be trying to convince Rose to help him out here. She might be making a big show about deciding whether to oblige or not.

Cassandra the Dust-Eater | Claymore

[fearinahandfulof]

Cassandra is here largely because Akane is here; she doesn't really get the point of anything that's going on. She's not sure if this sort of thing is normal for humans or if it's just another thing that makes this world so strange; she doesn't really have the experience to judge.

She watches the ballet for a bit (it's lost on her), then watches people attempt to ride the Bouffalant that doesn't want to be ridden (also lost on her), then makes her way over to the site of the race (also lost on her, but Akane's competing and she wants to be supportive). At some point, she might drift over to the egg stand, but she thinks that might not be a good idea: she might end up with an egg that way.

As usual, she's accompanied by Blade the Silvally and (now) Lythie the Murkrow, the former brightly sparkling in the sunlight while the latter perches on Blade's head (and Cassandra is not sure where Lythie got those sunglasses and isn't sure she wants to know). Blade seems at least as nonplussed as Cassandra about this whole thing, while Lythie is... possibly looking for trouble to get into. Cassandra's not sure, and she's honestly kind of worried.

After the Race - Armin

[angewiesen]

Jean finished the race at an admirable place in the stampede. Even if he didn't rank in the top three, he was pretty satisfied with the results. He gave Cownt Dracula some treats, returned the Tauros to the Moo Moo Farms, and attended the awards ceremony.

It was there that he realized Armin wasn't among the crowd of participants. Once the medals had been handed out, he approached the people who coordinated the race to ask if they'd seen one of the riders cross the finish line: short blonde hair, blue eyes, about yay-high...

Yeah, they didn't. After giving the organizers a piece of his mind about the shoddy safety protocols in place here, he decided to double back.

Jean had two possible scenarios in mind. Either Armin got bucked, or trampled, or his Tauros got away from him, and he was now stranded somewhere on the course where no-one would think to look, or...

The Sawsbuck. Of course it was the damn Sawsbuck.

"Armin," Jean called from a slight distance away as he rode up on his Rapidash, his exasperation evident. "You do understand what the goal of a race is, right?"

[schachmeister]

Of course, it was the Sawsbuck.

By now, Armin had finally coaxed the still orb-wearing Sawsbuck to lay down, backed against a cluster of trees, limiting the pokemon's chances of escape. Not that the pokemon is by any means relaxed or at ease; it's exhaustion more than anything that has brought it down.

His Tauros is laying a bit away, chewing on some grass and watching the whole scene with a sort of idle interest. Which, honestly, is fine by Armin! Considering Moo-stache had already caused the Sawsbuck to bolt once, forcing Armin to chase after him through the forest, having him stay at a bit of a distance is probably for the best.

Ah, but then there is Jean, riding up and calling out, and part of Armin thinks it is really nice of Jean to make sure he's okay and coming to find him, but the bigger part of him really, really badly needs Jean to be quiet right now.

Turning quickly in his direction, Armin shakes his head at Jean, crossing his arms slightly frantically in front of his chest for a moment, and pressing his finger to his lips, hoping to mime silence at him. Oh god, please, he already had to chase down this poor but incredibly dumb Sawsbuck once. Let's not make it twice.