Lootbox Hero (Old)

Chapter 4: The Worldbox Festival

If there was one thing that everyone got worked up for; it was the Worldbox Festival. Citizens from every kingdom across Lút traveled to Prusperis City to partake in the festivities. It was the one time in a year where the Lucky and Unlucky mingled without anyone batting an eye. Of course the main focus was the Worldbox itself. An absolutely massive Lootbox that sits at the heart of the city. The stories say that it was the last thing Poe Tenshal ever made before he vanished, but nobody knows what might be inside. The popular theories are that it contains untold treasures that someone could use to change the world however way they want.

Tayka didn't really buy into all that, but he was sure that something great had to be inside. For now, though, he was just planning on enjoying the day of activities. It was also nice that nobody was going to look at him strangely for being from the slums. Currently he was trailing behind Maxxie as they snaked through the massive crowds towards the food vendor stalls. They were in the same courtyard as the Worldbox, and as they rounded a final corner the giant Lootbox dominated the view. The dark material it was made of had a glossy finish, and lines like circuits pulsed with an unknown purple energy. The whole thing floated several feet off the ground on one corner.

"Hey! Quit starin', and come on!"

The girl's voice brought Tayka back into the moment. At some point he had started zoning out without realizing it. Perhaps he was just imagining things, but he could have sworn something was drawing him towards the Worldbox. Shaking his head quickly Tayka trotted over to where Maxxie was standing.

"Sorry... So, what do you wanna get first?"

He asked while looking past her at the stalls. Festival food was always the best, so he was definitely looking forward to it.

"I was thinkin' we could get some Sugarbread first!"

Maxxie grinned at him. He couldn't remember the last time he had Sugarbread. Just thinking about pastry made Tayka's mouth water.

"Sounds great!"

He affirmed, and the pair went to the closest stand selling the Sugarbread Lootboxes.

"Two please!"

The vendor smiled at them; handing over the requested boxes. Matching the sweet contents they were decorated in light colors and shapes.

"The rates are pretty good this year, enjoy!"

Giving the man a quick word of thanks Tayka and Maxxie next made their way to an unoccupied bench. The boy watching eagerly as Maxxie fed some change into the Lootbox; sending it into a series of jittery convulsions before popping apart, and revealing a slice of the desired item.

"Nice! First try! Alright, Tayka, your turn!"

She smiled at him, which he returned. He wasn't sure when the last time he was this excited about opening a box. Although Tayka's smile faded as he held up the palm-sized device.

"Crap... I forgot I'm, uh... I'm totally broke..."

He held it towards the girl. Feeling defeated.

"You can have it."

Maxxie frowned, and pushed it back towards him. She then handed him some coins.

"Here, but you owe me, alright?"

The generosity surprised him. Considering he was still a stranger to her, and the others.

"You got it."

Tayka replied while reluctantly reaching out and taking the money. Inserting it into the Lootbox he watched it open; the device giving him a plain donut. The most common item according to the Vendor's drop rate board. The results made him sigh aloud. Looks like he wasn't completely cured of his horrible luck. Suddenly a piece of Sugarbread was thrown onto the donut. Confused he looked up to Maxxie who was standing in front of Tayka now.