[Video]

[lazuline]

It seems as though I cannot find enough to keep myself busy, now that the spa decided to open seems to be running smoothly. [behind her in the feed, an ocean themed waiting room with large aquariums can be seen.] I've decided to look for something else to occupy my time.

[there's a pause as she looks thoughtfully off camera.]

I have been thinking, wouldn't it be a good idea to fund better starting accommodations for new arrivals? If nothing else, perhaps the rooms could use an artistic hand after all of the people who have passed through them. What sort of charity event would all of you like to see to raise these sorts of funds? [she lifts a hand to tuck some of her long hair behind her ear, but that one stubborn section still falls in front of her face.]

I've asked locals, and I've heard mention of a Date Auction being run in the past. Perhaps something of that sort would interest most of you? Though, I feel adding a less romance oriented version to go along side it would be appropriate to raise the most money. Does anyone have any other suggestions?

Comments

Private Video

[zenoh]

Hello again, Azura. I'm glad to hear that your business is performing well.

A fundraiser is an excellent idea. First impressions are crucial, and the Commons could certainly be better.

[ Ayame was quick to respond. She has good faith in her own event management skills, but Azura has proven herself in doing grander ones like the carnival. She shows her appreciation and respect in a subtle nod as she walks down the hangars of the Skyrise ]

The date auction had vocal opposition in the past, though from a very small minority who found it too much. But most people seem to love it, so it remains a safe option for ideas.

[ She nods. ]

The people here seem to love a good competition, so something like a large sporting event, perhaps?

[lazuline]

Ayame, it's good to hear from you. I noticed you're running for guardianship. I do wish you luck with that!

[she considers for a moment what her friend has said] I can see where the opposition would come from, which is why I wanted to include something more general. Though I am curious, what were their objections, in detail?

I admit, a sporting event hadn't come to mind...I was thinking of something like companionship or friendship oriented match ups. But perhaps there could be both.

[zenoh]

Thank you. I'm hoping to contribute to this world more.

[ She nods ]

But to this minority, the date auction felt almost like coercion. Forcing people to do something that's supposed to be special and intimate for the sake of fun and profit.

[ She used to be part of that minority, now she doesn't really know. So she follows with a small shrug ]

And as for events, Attleton once held an Olympic games at its arena. People signed up to compete in various sporting events, but I suppose you could add the element of companionship or friendship in that. Make it a competition between teams instead of individuals.

video;

[orlokbutterfly]

[Oh no. He heard the words "Date Auction" and he's got a feeling of dread. Nooo! This year was going so well!

..... but damn it, this girl's cute, so he's not going to be that vocal against it.]

Huh, are the Commons that bad? Those weren't around when I showed up, so I've never seen 'em.

[These new kids are just spoiled!]

If ya seriously consider the date auction idea, yeah, I'd... recommend a more platonic version alongside it. They can get kinda awkward, 'specially for people that already have relationships that get signed up unknowingly.

[Not that he's speaking for himself, he just remembers what happened with a lady friend the last time.]

[lazuline]

Yes, that was my thinking. If the point is to raise money, it makes sense to organize an event that would appeal to a larger audience. I am also hesitant to allow signing people up against their will, if I'm honest. That is against the spirit of a charity event.

[she offers a smile, before continuing.]

But, I wouldn't call the commons terrible, but with so many people coming and going even the nicest accommodations are going to wear out. By raising money for it, we might have access to a larger pool of money than we would if we had the current or new guardian try and get the money through more regulated means.

[orlokbutterfly]

You'd be the first one after numerous auctions to not allow mystery sign ups if you did. You'd sure save a lot of people the embarrassment.

[And frustration. Sure, Gale was guilty of signing people up randomly, but karma got him every time.]

Makes sense. Sounds like a good idea. Pretty sure people have done charity baking too, if ya wanted to consider somethin' like that.

Last year 'round this time, a charity advent calendar came out too. Just, y'know, with a more risque take. You could always bring that back.

[His tone sounded like he was joking, even if he was a tad serious. Just a tad.]

Video

[ubiquitously]

Eh~ You want to be even more busy~?

Should I take this as a hint that you don't want to hang out as much?

[And before his teasing can be misunderstood:]

There was a date auction at my school when I was human. Though, they framed it around the type of date instead of the person. Made everyone much less uncomfortable. "Lucas" was the aquarium date.

[lazuline]

You know I would almost definitely invite you along on any new activities I decide to dive into, Uai. [She laughs, gazing fondly at the video feed. His suggestion however? Makes her eyese widen in surprise. How unique!]

Oh! That's a clever idea, Uai. That would make it much easier for those who wanted something less romantic to volunteer, wouldn't it?

[ubiquitously]

[And he's watching back, wishing he could actually be with her instead of watching her. He used to like his lonely tea shop, but now it's agony.]

You know I would do anything you ask, so let me know what you decide. [Don't

say that on a public network.]

Mm. It was fun for the students. [He did not enjoy being auctioned himself, but he was glad to give someone a good time.] It's a good chance to meet someone, too. I was paired with a very sweet girl.

video;

[ivegotadream]

I only know so much about what a dating auction is, so can you explain it to me? I would appreciate it very much.

[Other suggestions though, this was something Rapunzel had been pondering over.]

Well... maybe things like performances and the like where people pay for tickets but that money goes to the charity instead of anyone's pockets. It's what I am doing with some kids currently. It achieves a dream for the child and gives money to charity at the same time.

[lazuline]

I'm afraid what I have envisioned is much different from what I'm hearing has been held in the past, from the sound of things. For one, I would not be allowing anything other than voluntary participation in the auction, there is little use in forcing people into being participants.

The idea as I've understood it is a date with a volunteer is auctioned off to the highest bidder. But I am open to more general ideas, like the ones you've suggested.

[speaking of: Azura is rather fond of what Rapunzel seems to be doing.] You should be proud of your efforts to realize a child's dream.

[ivegotadream]

Oh, so that is what it is. Auctioning a date off. I think I understand that now at least.

[She paused for a moment.]

I am happy with what I am doing, but there are always more people with dreams, so I have a long way to go before I can say proud. [And after a moment she thinks of another idea.]

Art exhibition can be another idea. Show off other peoples work.

Video

[tsukkomishima]

How about spare clothing? Or coats?
Some arrive from different seasons.

Perhaps, a fashion show to raise money?

[lazuline]

Oh, you mean to give the new arrivals? That is certainly a good idea, a donation drive for clothing could be quite useful.

[and the idea of a fashion show is also interesting.] It would be a fun little competition to let artists compete in a fashion show. Attendance costs could be considered donations.

[tsukkomishima]

Yes. Living space isn't the only thing new arrivals need.

That's what I was thinking.

[ The idea of fashion shows is new to him, though.]

[grossartig_mond]

[There's something of an evil grin on Camilla's face as she responds. Sure she's been helping plan but there's something more that needs to happen...]

You know what this means, right?

[lazuline]

[Oh boy. Azura is aware of mischief when that expression is on Camilla's face]

I'm afraid I do not. But I'm sure you're about to tell me.

[grossartig_mond]

You and I are going dress shopping. You don't get a choice in the matter, and it's my treat.

[drownindarkness]

A date auction? What in the world are the customs of this place?

[Leo looks a bit perplexed, trying to wrap his head around the concept. Is that a local courting practice or something? Really?]

Perhaps I could speak to a stable in Fayren to offer short horse riding sessions? I'm sure I could afford their costs for the use of their horses.

[lazuline]

[She laughs a little.]

It's just a little bit of harmless fun to come up with some money to help the new arrivals, Leo. But if that means you're going to volunteer, that's definitely something that could be a part of the date!

[you're doomed, little brother.]

[drownindarkness]

You want me to be at the mercy of the general populace-?!

[He can only imagine how humiliating that might be, especially for a royal! ... but... but this is his sister and her plans we're talking about here.]

I-if it's a platonic date, I suppose I wouldn't object. I wouldn't want to skip your event.

[He's so doomed.]

[ Video ]

[fondofapples]

As fond as I was of the Amagi, your spa is lovely. I'm looking forward to spending my next weekend off there.

[ Regina gives an appreciative nod and smile. ]

I do think the Commons could use renovations, and the no-pets policy leaves those who arrive with animal companions in a difficult situation. I would support a charitable effort to improve the accommodations for new arrivals.

Consider making the Date Auction more of a Service Auction? Those who sign up to be auctioned off may offer their skills, like massage therapy, a date of their own design, or some other package of services, like housecleaning or lawn-mowing or running errands. Fewer misunderstandings, and greater opportunities for participation.

Re: [ Video ]

[lazuline]

I'm glad you've found it to your liking.

[but back on topic.]

I think if the rooms were larger, it would be easier to accommodate pets. But whether we are able to do something like that would definitely depend on how much money the auction brings. [however, the suggestion of a service auction is a possibility. Azura pauses, her expression thoughtful.]

That is an idea. I was already considering moving the auction to something more centered around the experience someone offered than the person themselves. It feels less like selling a person rather than their time, in that case. Don't you think?

[quick_clean_pure]

Date Auction might be fun. 'Specially since we are all hurtling towards Valentine's Day in a couple months.

sorry for slow! end of the semester hell

[lazuline]

Hmm... I suppose that's a point in it's favor. Do you think it would be a better charity for around that time?

[it's a thought, but she's not certain she'd want to put off the event for that long...]