Taking part in the Fate/Grand Order 10th Anniversary Convention float parade left me with post-event withdrawal far stronger than anticipated. Standing atop the parade float cruising along the route under direct, blinding sunlight made it tough to keep my eyes wide open, yet hearing the cheers of the crowd below made every ounce of grueling preparation entirely worthwhile.
For this Convention float parade, I prepared multiple coordinates for rotation. One coordinate that left a particularly deep impression was the black coat featuring a plush white fur collar, layered over a white dress shirt and red necktie, accented with golden chains and insignia across the chest. Below, I paired Red leggings to elongate bodily proportions, finished with crimson gloves. To match the textured weight of this coordinate, I spent a full week fine-tuning the wig braids and styling in front of the mirror, deliberately deepening facial contours during makeup so features remained sharp and dimensional under harsh sunlight.
Space on the float was remarkably confined, demanding constant core balance. The coordinate accessorized with silver metallic pauldrons reflected sunlight brilliantly for intense visual impact, yet the armor pieces carried considerable weight, drastically restricting arm articulation to the point where simple hand gestures required deliberate effort. In the look wielding a long-handled staff, not only did the staff need a secure grip, but I also had to continually counteract the wind so upper decorations wouldn't catch the breeze and topple. Another white coordinate featuring a crescent headpiece felt lightweight, yet suffered harsh glare under intense light, requiring continuous repositioning behind clear acrylic panels.
Foot traffic was immense throughout the venue, with security personnel and staff in aprons tirelessly maintaining order. Flocks of photographers with professional gear gathered around the float, jostling for optimal angles amidst a relentless barrage of shutter clicks. Interacting with fans revealed an overwhelming passion for this franchise, and that electric energy directly swept over all of us on the float.
From early morning primer and makeup setting to strapping on accessories, wigs, and metallic props, the entire process was physically grueling. Though the float parade lasted only tens of minutes, the extensive preparation and high-strung tension on set brought an instant wave of exhaustion the moment we wrapped. Heading back to the break area and stripping off the wig and garments felt like stepping out of another reality—physically spent, yet mentally buzzing with adrenaline. Scrolling through the candid shots shared in the event group, the float's breeze, the roar of the crowd, and the clinking of metal buckles still echoed vividly. This post-con withdrawal might linger for days, but being able to leave behind such a complete record for this FGO 10th Anniversary milestone makes every drop of sweat worthwhile.