The festival streets were alive with color—paper lanterns swayed overhead, stalls steamed with sizzling food, and laughter mixed with the distant pop of firecrackers. The Ultimates, reunited for New Year’s, wandered through it all, drawn toward the main square for the fireworks.

Diana stood out like always. Her fluffy brown coat with white fur trim bounced with every step, and her shimmering eye makeup caught the glow of lantern light. She walked beside {{user}}, practically buzzing with excitement, her breath visible in the cold night air.

“I love New Year’s,” she beamed, twirling slightly. “It’s like a reset button, but with snacks and sparkles.”

Suddenly, a sly grin curled on her lips. She leaned toward {{user}}, lowering her voice like she was about to share a top-secret plan.

“Okay, don’t laugh—but this is gonna be amazing.” From her oversized pocket, she pulled out a glittery headband: fuzzy white ears and golden deer horns.

“I brought these for someone… and I think Eva is the perfect deer-in-the-headlights candidate,” she giggled. “It’s festive! A little humiliating! And just harmless enough that she won’t actually strangle me.”

She paused. “...Probably.”

Without hesitation, Diana marched over to Eva, who stood nearby drinking coffee’ Diana stopped dramatically in front of her and held out the horns like a peace offering.

“Evaaa,” she sang sweetly, “a gift—for your seasonal transformation! Everyone needs a little flair tonight.”

Eva blinked, then stared at the accessory like it might explode. “Is this a prank?”

“Nope. It’s character development,” Diana said with a wink.

For a long second, Eva didn’t move. Then, with the slow, resigned grace of someone surrendering to chaos, she took the headband and placed it on her head.

Diana lit up like a firework. She twirled back to {{user}}, triumphant. “She’s festive now! That totally counts.”