Banks Dynasty – Day 2.4 (Part 1)

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Today is the day! I barely slept last night thinking about the trip to Batuu. We wake up early to pack and eat breakfast with Ma and Dad.

Dray comes down the stairs last, and we can immediately see why. Sometime between bedtime last night and this morning, he dyed his hair bright green.

Kai: Dray, is that you, or has the Joker broken into the house?

Drake: It’s me, Dad.

Kai: Who gave you permission to color your hair like that?

Drake: No one. I just did it.

Kai: You need to ask me or your mother before doing something that drastic.

Drake: Why? It’s my hair.

Kai: It is your hair, but your mother and I are responsible for you until you’re an adult, and we have a say about what you do – that’s why.

Drake: Um, okay. Sorry

Kai: *not happy* Well, it’s too late to change it back now, so we might as well sit down and eat.

Dad and Dray join the rest of us at the table, where we all get to see Dray’s new hair color up close. Ma’s reaction is the same as Dad’s. I don’t know if I like the new color. Green is not my thing, but I admire Dray’s boldness in significantly changing his appearance without permission. I don’t think I would have dared at his age. I don’t even know if I’d do it now.

I finish my food and grab my backpack just as Dad approaches me with concern.

Kai: Before you go, I have one request.

Wade: What’s up, Dad?

Kai: Please keep a close eye on Dray.

Wade: I intend to.

Kai: No – I mean a very close eye. This green hair stunt is very typical of him. He’s a different sort of kid – always has been.

Dad’s not exaggerating. Dray seems to be a ‘it’s better to ask for forgiveness than permission’ sort of person.

Kai: *continues* He’s liable to wander off or get into something he’s not supposed to. I’m tempted to make him stay here.

Wade: He’d hate that.

Kai: I know, so against my better judgment, I’ll let him go – but I need you to keep him out of trouble.

Wade: I will, Dad. I promise.

Ma seems to be on the same page as Dad – except she goes right to the source of the concern.

Melisa: So, where did you get the dye?

Drake: I bought it right after my scout meeting. It’s cool, right?

Melisa: It’s, uh – listen, this is the first time you’ve been away from home and away from your dad and me.

Drake: I’ll be okay, Ma.

Melisa: I know, but I want you to know that your brother, Wade is in charge while you’re gone. You need to listen to him and do what he says.

Drake: Okay

Melisa: Now that I’ve said my peace, are you too old to hug your Ma?

Drake: No

Dray and Ma share a hug. Meanwhile, I pull out my phone to secure our ride to the airport. It’s time to head to Batuu!

There is nothing quite like visiting a place for the first time. As we approach Batuu, I come up with a list of three initial stages of travel.

First, there’s the anticipation of arrival. I’ve been anticipating visiting this place for so long. There’s a build-up in my head as I try to sort through everything I’ve seen and read about Batuu. I begin mentally listing everything I’d like to see and experience. I’m practically bouncing in my seat, waiting for my first look at the place.

Then, there’s the excitement of arrival. The flight path takes us on a turn around a mountain, and there it is – my first view of the amusement park. It’s everything I want it to be and more. Its unique architecture, foliage, and mountain structures take my breath away.

Last is the exploration phase. After going through the first two phases, we finally land at the amusement park. Once our feet are on the ground at the Black Spire Outpost, it’s time for stage three. We stop and stand in awe for several minutes as we look around. We take turns snapping pictures, barely believing the complete immersion that this place provides. It almost feels as if our home has disappeared forever.

Drake: What should we do first?

Wade: We need to change so we’ll fit in. Let’s go to our dwelling.

Mase and Dray agree to the plan, but I make a short pit stop on our way.

A Stormtrooper is standing off to the side, and there’s no way I’m walking by without taking a selfie with one. Once I have my photo, I lead my brother to our home away from home for the next few days.

Once we’re in our ‘explore Batuu’ outfits, I take more selfies with my bros. For once, Mase is in a great mood. Maybe travel was the actual key to unlocking his happiness. Either way, I’m glad to see it.

Wade: We’re here – we finally made it, and we’re on our own! The Banks Boys take over Batuu!

Okay, maybe I’m too excited, but can you blame me?

Drake: What do we do now?

I thought I had a plan, but now I’m unsure, so I pull out a map to decide on our first stop – just as a cute girl steps out of the Dwelling and walks past us. I watch her as she walks away, wondering where she’s going because that’s where I want to be.

Wade: Where’s Mase?

Drake: I think he went back inside to pee.

I can’t just leave him, but the girl is gone when Mase steps back outside. I look at the map again. Maybe she went to the Cantina, so that’s what I suggest.

Wade: I’m thirsty. Let’s get drinks at Oga’s Cantina.

I lead the way and take a seat at the bar. The cutie from the Dwelling isn’t in there, but another is waving and trying to capture my attention as soon as I sit down.