Cam's mouth opened in an O and she pulled at her wrap. "Oh...that's fine, sure."
Was it? Her anxiety ramped up but she squashed it down with the suggestion that it would be more of her kind. With a deep breath, she looked in the direction Pak had waved and saw a tall red head and a man that looked like her apartment tower Security manager.
"Oh," she said quietly. Smiling, she was about to say hello when the crowd in front of the stage erupted into applause. Looking toward the commotion she saw Reese taking the stage and an unreasonable amount of arousal inundated her senses. "Good lord," she murmured unhappily and cleared her throat.
The crowd's emotions filtered into her head, the excitement ramping up to epic proportions. Emotion from the females in the crowd was salacious, to say the least, and she felt her anxiety twist in her stomach. She shrank in her seat hoping to avoid him from seeing her.
Drive - The Howl (OPEN)
Sometimes, I feel the fear of uncertainty stinging clear
And I can't help but ask myself how much I let the fear
Take the wheel and steer
It's driven me before
And it seems to have a vague, haunting mass appeal
But lately I'm beginning to find that I
Should be the one behind the wheel
-Incubus
Camille pulled her ivory wrap around her bare shoulders and tried not to look nervous. Standing at the steps leading down the club section of The Howl, Cam nervously looked around as she was jostled by the quickly moving patrons heading down to see the head lining act. It was early still, hours before her Reese...Red...well he wasn't hers, per say.... Shaking her head, Cam almost turned to leave when a large group of women caught her in their wake and forced her to move down the steps. Being unceremoniously moved to the tables surrounding the stage, Cam pulled her wrap tighter around her.
Wearing tight black capri jeans with matching suede espadrille wedges and an ivory silk tank to match her wrap, Camille shifted uncomfortably, trying to ignore the rush of annoyed auras from the females. Her hesitation was beginning to annoy her, so she took a deep breath and selected a table near the back of the venue. Draping her wrap over the back of the chair, she slipped off her small purse and tried to look nonchalant.
The auras around her varied from elated, energetic, apprehensive, and aroused. She filtered the harsher emotions and concentrated on trying to read the body language of the patrons around her, connecting the dots, as it were - putting emotions to people. It would distract her for a little while hopefully. Reese had been on her mind all week, and she was fairly certain he would play later that night, but she hadn't decided if she was going to see him again. Unconsciously she reached up and pulled her hair into a low ponytail, running her fingers through her long black tresses.
Camille Sotoria
13 years ago
Vivienne Sena
13 years ago
/I never know what to say to you when you bring that up, Simon./ Viv let the disappointment filter into their aura as Simon watched her closely. /You only say it to get a reaction from me./
/Well, yes and no./
They were facing the stage when Red and JT stepped up, causing a loud applause to rush through the very crowded bar. JT sat at the brand new looking drum set that was on a separately raised platform behind Red and his DJ'ing equipment. Next to the drums were two guitars - a red Gibson with ghost flames and an acoustic guitar. Clapping happily, Viv began to yell out their names.
/I didn't know your Pipers were musically inclined./
/We had no idea Red could sing, not until last week./ Viv was glad for the change of subject and relief spread into their aura. She felt nary an emotion from Simon, but that wasn't unusual. There was no point bringing it up anymore, it only upset her. Their aura reflected the change - going from elation to a sad disappointment before Viv tried to reel it in; she had discovered that she could hide things from Simon and he was as surprised at the ability as she had been, but the only thing Viv could chalk it up to was her ability to learn. Obviously she picked it up from Simon. Or something like that.
Simon turned and looked at her, nursing his dark beer. /Sorry/, he whispered to her.
Without looking at him she hooked her arms around his long right one and let it go.
/Well, yes and no./
They were facing the stage when Red and JT stepped up, causing a loud applause to rush through the very crowded bar. JT sat at the brand new looking drum set that was on a separately raised platform behind Red and his DJ'ing equipment. Next to the drums were two guitars - a red Gibson with ghost flames and an acoustic guitar. Clapping happily, Viv began to yell out their names.
/I didn't know your Pipers were musically inclined./
/We had no idea Red could sing, not until last week./ Viv was glad for the change of subject and relief spread into their aura. She felt nary an emotion from Simon, but that wasn't unusual. There was no point bringing it up anymore, it only upset her. Their aura reflected the change - going from elation to a sad disappointment before Viv tried to reel it in; she had discovered that she could hide things from Simon and he was as surprised at the ability as she had been, but the only thing Viv could chalk it up to was her ability to learn. Obviously she picked it up from Simon. Or something like that.
Simon turned and looked at her, nursing his dark beer. /Sorry/, he whispered to her.
Without looking at him she hooked her arms around his long right one and let it go.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
[I can be,] Rowan offered. [Would you like me to get on one knee and serenade you? I will.]
He grinned at his lover. If Cris required such gestures from him he'd be happy to comply. Hell, requirement wasn't necessary. If Cris even hinted at wanting them he'd do it.
[Do you want me drunk?] He asked Cris curiously, humorously. [I sure won't mind being taken advantage of. With or without alcohol. So long as I can sleep it off before work tomorrow evening.]
Christian answered his question by drawing him toward the table Pakpao was sitting at with the other woman. Rowan smiled to himself; it was hard to tell whether Cris was doing so because he wanted to, or because he wanted to prove to Rowan he wanted to be seen with him by their clan mates. Either reason was worthy of his smile, for different reasons. He just liked being out with Cris.
Their unspoken conversation reminded him that their two nights together were drawing to a close. Rowan frowned, wishing they didn't have to end at all. His schedule was psychotic this week. He had a little time to met with Alfarinn and hopefully go out with Cris tomorrow night but after that it was hectic.
Rowan stopped suddenly, pulling Cris up short. Tugging Cris to him when he turned, Rowan bent down, wrapped his arms around his partner, and kissed him fiercely, deeply, urgently, one hand wrapping tightly around Cris's waist. He made no attempt at subtlety, making a soft noise of satisfaction at the taste of Cris's lips, the caress of his tongue. When he drew away he said, in a voice meant for Cris alone, too soft to be heard by anyone else, "Thank you. For last night. And tonight. I can't even tell you how happy you make me."
Dropping one last, gentle kiss to Cris's lips Rowan closed the distance to the table with the unoccupied chairs.
"Excuse me," he said, smiling. "Are these seats taken? Do you mind if we occupy them?"
He looked at Pak. "Nice to see you again Pakpao. We met at the bookstore at Liefde, remember?"
Rowan grinned. He was sure Pakpao remembered. He turned to her companion and held out his hand. "Good evening. I'm Rowan, this is Christian."
He figured whether they were saving the chairs for someone or not, it wouldn't hurt to introduce themselves.
He grinned at his lover. If Cris required such gestures from him he'd be happy to comply. Hell, requirement wasn't necessary. If Cris even hinted at wanting them he'd do it.
[Do you want me drunk?] He asked Cris curiously, humorously. [I sure won't mind being taken advantage of. With or without alcohol. So long as I can sleep it off before work tomorrow evening.]
Christian answered his question by drawing him toward the table Pakpao was sitting at with the other woman. Rowan smiled to himself; it was hard to tell whether Cris was doing so because he wanted to, or because he wanted to prove to Rowan he wanted to be seen with him by their clan mates. Either reason was worthy of his smile, for different reasons. He just liked being out with Cris.
Their unspoken conversation reminded him that their two nights together were drawing to a close. Rowan frowned, wishing they didn't have to end at all. His schedule was psychotic this week. He had a little time to met with Alfarinn and hopefully go out with Cris tomorrow night but after that it was hectic.
Rowan stopped suddenly, pulling Cris up short. Tugging Cris to him when he turned, Rowan bent down, wrapped his arms around his partner, and kissed him fiercely, deeply, urgently, one hand wrapping tightly around Cris's waist. He made no attempt at subtlety, making a soft noise of satisfaction at the taste of Cris's lips, the caress of his tongue. When he drew away he said, in a voice meant for Cris alone, too soft to be heard by anyone else, "Thank you. For last night. And tonight. I can't even tell you how happy you make me."
Dropping one last, gentle kiss to Cris's lips Rowan closed the distance to the table with the unoccupied chairs.
"Excuse me," he said, smiling. "Are these seats taken? Do you mind if we occupy them?"
He looked at Pak. "Nice to see you again Pakpao. We met at the bookstore at Liefde, remember?"
Rowan grinned. He was sure Pakpao remembered. He turned to her companion and held out his hand. "Good evening. I'm Rowan, this is Christian."
He figured whether they were saving the chairs for someone or not, it wouldn't hurt to introduce themselves.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
He pondered Rowan's offer with a small smile. [I don't think you'd have enough room in here to get down on one knee nor could I hear you over the music and people...so perhaps that effort would be best made some other time.] To his lover's other question, the response was immediate.[Yes] He added further explanation. [Drunk, sober and any other way I can get you.]
Christian smirked at Pakpao's retort. [MARI can spend her nights talking to me. I am an excellent conversationalist. Ask anyone.] His inflection was just as dry and deadpan mentally as it was when he was speaking aloud. He wondered exactly what people would say if she did, in fact, bother to ask them.
Turning when he felt the tug on his hand, Cris barely had time for a brief expression of question before Rowan had pulled him close and kissed him....thoroughly. Surprise made him unresponsive for the briefest of moments before he returned the embrace with equal enthusiasm. What the hell... it was going to get out sooner or later, anyway. He was plenty happy to be seen with Rowan, proud in fact.
"You're welcome." Cris smiled up at his companion, echoing Rowan's quiet tone. "Anytime you would like to do it again... " He let the rest trail off.
Once they arrived at the table Rowan greeted both women and introduced the two of them. He watched the comfortable ease with which his partner socialized with friends and strangers alike.
"Good evening, Pakpao and" he turned to the other woman. "Camille, isn't it?" Christian had seen her from time to time at the Towers but they had not had much occasion to speak. He supposed that meant the lady was not a trouble maker of any renown. He always found that very reassuring in a clan mate.
Christian smirked at Pakpao's retort. [MARI can spend her nights talking to me. I am an excellent conversationalist. Ask anyone.] His inflection was just as dry and deadpan mentally as it was when he was speaking aloud. He wondered exactly what people would say if she did, in fact, bother to ask them.
Turning when he felt the tug on his hand, Cris barely had time for a brief expression of question before Rowan had pulled him close and kissed him....thoroughly. Surprise made him unresponsive for the briefest of moments before he returned the embrace with equal enthusiasm. What the hell... it was going to get out sooner or later, anyway. He was plenty happy to be seen with Rowan, proud in fact.
"You're welcome." Cris smiled up at his companion, echoing Rowan's quiet tone. "Anytime you would like to do it again... " He let the rest trail off.
Once they arrived at the table Rowan greeted both women and introduced the two of them. He watched the comfortable ease with which his partner socialized with friends and strangers alike.
"Good evening, Pakpao and" he turned to the other woman. "Camille, isn't it?" Christian had seen her from time to time at the Towers but they had not had much occasion to speak. He supposed that meant the lady was not a trouble maker of any renown. He always found that very reassuring in a clan mate.
Camille Sotoria
13 years ago
Cam looked away from the stage to see the tall red head kiss who she was fairly certain was the security chief in her apartment building. Her eyebrows rose in surprise and she cleared her throat as the multitude of emotions from the couple filtered into her mind. The kiss did not seem to be unwanted, but there was clear and definite shock at the public display of affection.
"Nice to meet you, Rowan. Actually, I think Christian and I have crossed paths at the Towers. Pleasure to see you again. Right, I'm Camille Sotoria." Cam looked at Rowan's hand and felt her shoulders tighten, but she remembered Reese's crestfallen face when she refused to shake his hand. Pushing herself, she reached out and shook Rowan's hand quickly, even though every instinct in her body was screaming at her not to do it. It was a quick, limp handshake, but sadly it was the best she could offer.
Christian was still reeling from the rather affectionate kiss and she could not help but smile at the two men. She knew her toes would curl if her Reese did that to her.
She blinked. If Reese, not her Reese.
Speaking of which, the club speakers squawked a high pitch noise which was followed by Reese's smooth baritone. He welcomed everyone back to The Howl and said a thank you for showing up again to tolerate his horrible singing. The crowd roared loudly as he stepped up to his equipment and began his DJ duties. The bar began to thump loudly and a flurry of bodies surged to the dance floor, gyrating with the music.
Turning back to her new table mates, Cam let her wrap fall down her shoulders and tried to relax.
"Nice to meet you, Rowan. Actually, I think Christian and I have crossed paths at the Towers. Pleasure to see you again. Right, I'm Camille Sotoria." Cam looked at Rowan's hand and felt her shoulders tighten, but she remembered Reese's crestfallen face when she refused to shake his hand. Pushing herself, she reached out and shook Rowan's hand quickly, even though every instinct in her body was screaming at her not to do it. It was a quick, limp handshake, but sadly it was the best she could offer.
Christian was still reeling from the rather affectionate kiss and she could not help but smile at the two men. She knew her toes would curl if her Reese did that to her.
She blinked. If Reese, not her Reese.
Speaking of which, the club speakers squawked a high pitch noise which was followed by Reese's smooth baritone. He welcomed everyone back to The Howl and said a thank you for showing up again to tolerate his horrible singing. The crowd roared loudly as he stepped up to his equipment and began his DJ duties. The bar began to thump loudly and a flurry of bodies surged to the dance floor, gyrating with the music.
Turning back to her new table mates, Cam let her wrap fall down her shoulders and tried to relax.
Pakpao
13 years ago
It was hard not to notice the crowd go a little crazy and Pak turned her attention to the stage. She only half caught was Cam was saying and the one was totally lost. But given that Cam had been the one to ask about the DJ turned singer Pak assumed she was happy to see these guys take the stage. Although, it also looked like she was hiding. But that could just be the noise. Pak opted not to pass judgment.
Huh, well that was unexpected. She'd gathered that day in the bookstore that Rowan and Christian had just met. But apparently it had been a good first meeting.. Well... that was nice enough she supposed. Not knowing either of them terribly well Pak didn't have much of an opinion.
"Nice to see you again Rowan, Christian."
She did eye them both a bit suspiciously. Rowan for his acting skills and Christian... well for some unknown reason Pak was a bit afraid of Christian. Even more so now that he didn't look like the Christian she knew. It made her leery.
[Yeah... well... you break her you bought her and you don't want to know about the over time I'd charge to fix her.]
Not to mention the fact that she'd have to kill anyone who damaged MARI, and not in that polite, cuddly, it will regenerate kind of way.
"Yeah... sit down or risk being trampled. I've tried that once already tonight. Didn't care for it. Cam rescued me."
Wow, that was quite a reaction and he was only doing the DJ thing so far. If one judged by the number of people dancing he was doing a good job.
Huh, well that was unexpected. She'd gathered that day in the bookstore that Rowan and Christian had just met. But apparently it had been a good first meeting.. Well... that was nice enough she supposed. Not knowing either of them terribly well Pak didn't have much of an opinion.
"Nice to see you again Rowan, Christian."
She did eye them both a bit suspiciously. Rowan for his acting skills and Christian... well for some unknown reason Pak was a bit afraid of Christian. Even more so now that he didn't look like the Christian she knew. It made her leery.
[Yeah... well... you break her you bought her and you don't want to know about the over time I'd charge to fix her.]
Not to mention the fact that she'd have to kill anyone who damaged MARI, and not in that polite, cuddly, it will regenerate kind of way.
"Yeah... sit down or risk being trampled. I've tried that once already tonight. Didn't care for it. Cam rescued me."
Wow, that was quite a reaction and he was only doing the DJ thing so far. If one judged by the number of people dancing he was doing a good job.
The Pipers
13 years ago
Marko and Dom walked into The Howl after trying to chat up some girls out on the street first. Unsuccessful, they retreated into the bar and made their way down to the stage just as Red started spinning his set.
"Aw, that's just disgusting," Dom said unhappily as the crowd surged forward, cheering their Sergeant on.
"Jealous," Marko said with grin.
Dom sneered and then admitted it. "Yes, damn it."
Together the two Pipers moved toward the bar nearest the stage and got themselves two bottles of beer. They walked over to the opposite side of the stage and Dom yelled up to JT.
"Is that what you ordered?" Both men eyed up the admittedly glorious looking drum set that JT seemed to be hovering over protectively.
"Used all my lunch money for it," JT replied with a grin.
Marko, Dom, and JT continued to talk when Red pulled his headset off and walked over to the group.
"Hey, I need your help, Dom."
"With what?"
Red handed Dom a sheet of paper. "Do you know this song?"
Reading the lines, Dom smiled and nodded. "Of course I do. Why?"
"I need a third voice. Can you do the highlighted part?"
"When?"
"In a little bit, I'll let you know."
JT twirled his drumsticks in his hand, the wood blurred into a beige circle over his hands. "Don't screw this up, Dom."
Dom looked down at the paper and read it over it several times. "Yeah man, easy peasy."
"What is it?" Marko asked, reaching for the paper. He took it and read it over. "Oh this I gotta see."
Red returned to his turn tables and JT to his drums, leaving Dom and Marko to wander off until the other two Pipers started their set. Dom folded the paper up and slipped it into his back pocket, smiling as his excitement grew.
"Aw, that's just disgusting," Dom said unhappily as the crowd surged forward, cheering their Sergeant on.
"Jealous," Marko said with grin.
Dom sneered and then admitted it. "Yes, damn it."
Together the two Pipers moved toward the bar nearest the stage and got themselves two bottles of beer. They walked over to the opposite side of the stage and Dom yelled up to JT.
"Is that what you ordered?" Both men eyed up the admittedly glorious looking drum set that JT seemed to be hovering over protectively.
"Used all my lunch money for it," JT replied with a grin.
Marko, Dom, and JT continued to talk when Red pulled his headset off and walked over to the group.
"Hey, I need your help, Dom."
"With what?"
Red handed Dom a sheet of paper. "Do you know this song?"
Reading the lines, Dom smiled and nodded. "Of course I do. Why?"
"I need a third voice. Can you do the highlighted part?"
"When?"
"In a little bit, I'll let you know."
JT twirled his drumsticks in his hand, the wood blurred into a beige circle over his hands. "Don't screw this up, Dom."
Dom looked down at the paper and read it over it several times. "Yeah man, easy peasy."
"What is it?" Marko asked, reaching for the paper. He took it and read it over. "Oh this I gotta see."
Red returned to his turn tables and JT to his drums, leaving Dom and Marko to wander off until the other two Pipers started their set. Dom folded the paper up and slipped it into his back pocket, smiling as his excitement grew.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan raised his eyebrows at Christian. [Is that so? Then I will drink, so that you may take advantage of me that way. Just be gentle with me. I do have to work tomorrow.] It was sent with a sly little smile. Cris would never treat him poorly. Roughly, perhaps - he had begged for it, on occasion and he'd admit he loved it. Poorly though, never. Cris wasn't capable of it. He had no qualms about entrusting his inebriated self to Cris's exceptional care.
Christian's offer after that spectacular kiss was met with a quick grin. "How about every morning?"
The two women at the table didn't seem to mind being joined very much, and appeared to both live at Liefde. At Cam's limp handshake Rowan made sure not to squeeze her hand too hard in return. He let it go quickly as she drew away and moved to the two empty chairs.
"Nice to meet you, Camille. Thanks for sharing your table. It does look like a trampling is imminent."
Particularly as it seemed like there was a small stampede toward the dance floor. Rowan looked at the DJ with interest and then shrugged to himself. Turning back to their table he pulled a chair out for Cris and seated himself close to his partner, catching Pakpao's suspicious look. Apparently it wasn't as nice to see them as she claimed. But then, the last (and only) time they had met, Rowan had pranked her fairly well and Cris had helped. Maybe it had pissed her off.
However, Cris didn't deserve her ire for it if that was the case. The prank had been Rowan's. For that reason he chose the seat that put him between Pakpao and Cris, reaching over to his lover and twining his fingers back with Cris's, squeezing his smaller hand before resting them both on Cris's lap.
A server came by, asking them if they wanted drinks. Rowan ordered himself a margarita, then changed it to two margaritas. He had promised Cris some measure of inebriation... so he should get started. He looked at Cris, one eyebrow cocked, silently asking his partner if he wanted anything.
Christian's offer after that spectacular kiss was met with a quick grin. "How about every morning?"
The two women at the table didn't seem to mind being joined very much, and appeared to both live at Liefde. At Cam's limp handshake Rowan made sure not to squeeze her hand too hard in return. He let it go quickly as she drew away and moved to the two empty chairs.
"Nice to meet you, Camille. Thanks for sharing your table. It does look like a trampling is imminent."
Particularly as it seemed like there was a small stampede toward the dance floor. Rowan looked at the DJ with interest and then shrugged to himself. Turning back to their table he pulled a chair out for Cris and seated himself close to his partner, catching Pakpao's suspicious look. Apparently it wasn't as nice to see them as she claimed. But then, the last (and only) time they had met, Rowan had pranked her fairly well and Cris had helped. Maybe it had pissed her off.
However, Cris didn't deserve her ire for it if that was the case. The prank had been Rowan's. For that reason he chose the seat that put him between Pakpao and Cris, reaching over to his lover and twining his fingers back with Cris's, squeezing his smaller hand before resting them both on Cris's lap.
A server came by, asking them if they wanted drinks. Rowan ordered himself a margarita, then changed it to two margaritas. He had promised Cris some measure of inebriation... so he should get started. He looked at Cris, one eyebrow cocked, silently asking his partner if he wanted anything.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
[So no keeping you up late? I should take you straight home after this, tuck you in bed and then go read a book?] Cris would be fairly disappointed if that was what Rowan had in mind. Thankfully, he was pretty certain that it wasn't.
[Deal] He answered his companion. Christian arched an eyebrow at Pak's response to his offer of companionship for the AI. Sending to her, he said. [I speak with her nightly and haven't managed to break her yet.] Rowan moved past him to claim a chair and then pulled out the other one for him, clearly deciding where he was going to sit. Taking a seat, he wondered about that for a moment. He had thought Pak might have been a bit argumentative with him the last time the three of them were together but he did not think it was enough to warrant the need of a referee. She just had a problem with authority figures, at least that was his best guess. He supposed she might not like his face, maybe he looked like an ex. Still the protective gesture was touching; it had been a very long time since someone had thought he needed it. Sending to Rowan, he said. [Apparently I have been admonished not to break the AI with my charming wit and conversational banter.] He hoped that let his partner know that he and Pak were at least on speaking terms.
Turning his smile toward Cam, who's table this was according to Pak, he nodded in agreement as seeing her in the Towers. "Yes, once or twice. I appreciate that you have never once caused a local disturbance of any kind, and are, in fact, a model neighbor." He nodded and smiled in lieu of the handshake.
He took a peek at Camille's aura just to make sure that they really weren't intruding on people who were just too polite to say so; though from what he had seen of Pak so far, she'd have told them to buzz off if quickly enough if they were interrupting. Still, it never hurt to be sure.
Cam's aura was dominated currently by several different shades of red. The first was a fluttering, flickering red centered around the stomach and chest that he clearly understood as anxiety, the kind of thing that would be stage fright, butterflies or shortness of breath in physical conditions showed up as this wavering aura to him. The other red was a deeper, richer colour and that he had seen plenty of lately so there was no mistaking lust when he saw it. He didn't think it was directed at either himself or Rowan, it was there fairly steady, not in a pulsing flash that flared to life when an attractive person happens to catch your eye. It could be Pak. Did they interrupt a date? The ocean blue calm colour that became brighter when she looked at him suggested otherwise, mild relief of some sort and he wondered why. The last combination of colours was a bit of turquoise with the palest of pinks when she turned in their direction. Together it made up the kind of gentle affection you had for someone or something that you found charming or adorable and some way. Christian found himself blushing slightly. Bowing his head, he turned his attention to the fingers that entwined themselves with his own. Cam found them cute; he was both pleased and embarrassed by this realization.
Rowan seemed intent upon making sure he was drunk before they left the bar. Smiling at this effort on his behalf, he looked up at the server and continued the Jimmy Buffet theme with a single margarita for himself.
"I have to say the music is better than the HoP. No offense to the vampire loving crowd but after a while that stuff really starts to all sound the same."
((ooc: Cam's lovely reddish aura with permission. ))
[Deal] He answered his companion. Christian arched an eyebrow at Pak's response to his offer of companionship for the AI. Sending to her, he said. [I speak with her nightly and haven't managed to break her yet.] Rowan moved past him to claim a chair and then pulled out the other one for him, clearly deciding where he was going to sit. Taking a seat, he wondered about that for a moment. He had thought Pak might have been a bit argumentative with him the last time the three of them were together but he did not think it was enough to warrant the need of a referee. She just had a problem with authority figures, at least that was his best guess. He supposed she might not like his face, maybe he looked like an ex. Still the protective gesture was touching; it had been a very long time since someone had thought he needed it. Sending to Rowan, he said. [Apparently I have been admonished not to break the AI with my charming wit and conversational banter.] He hoped that let his partner know that he and Pak were at least on speaking terms.
Turning his smile toward Cam, who's table this was according to Pak, he nodded in agreement as seeing her in the Towers. "Yes, once or twice. I appreciate that you have never once caused a local disturbance of any kind, and are, in fact, a model neighbor." He nodded and smiled in lieu of the handshake.
He took a peek at Camille's aura just to make sure that they really weren't intruding on people who were just too polite to say so; though from what he had seen of Pak so far, she'd have told them to buzz off if quickly enough if they were interrupting. Still, it never hurt to be sure.
Cam's aura was dominated currently by several different shades of red. The first was a fluttering, flickering red centered around the stomach and chest that he clearly understood as anxiety, the kind of thing that would be stage fright, butterflies or shortness of breath in physical conditions showed up as this wavering aura to him. The other red was a deeper, richer colour and that he had seen plenty of lately so there was no mistaking lust when he saw it. He didn't think it was directed at either himself or Rowan, it was there fairly steady, not in a pulsing flash that flared to life when an attractive person happens to catch your eye. It could be Pak. Did they interrupt a date? The ocean blue calm colour that became brighter when she looked at him suggested otherwise, mild relief of some sort and he wondered why. The last combination of colours was a bit of turquoise with the palest of pinks when she turned in their direction. Together it made up the kind of gentle affection you had for someone or something that you found charming or adorable and some way. Christian found himself blushing slightly. Bowing his head, he turned his attention to the fingers that entwined themselves with his own. Cam found them cute; he was both pleased and embarrassed by this realization.
Rowan seemed intent upon making sure he was drunk before they left the bar. Smiling at this effort on his behalf, he looked up at the server and continued the Jimmy Buffet theme with a single margarita for himself.
"I have to say the music is better than the HoP. No offense to the vampire loving crowd but after a while that stuff really starts to all sound the same."
((ooc: Cam's lovely reddish aura with permission. ))
Reese E Deardon
13 years ago
Red looked through the play list he had planned on spinning for the next hour before he and JT decided to start their set when the manager came up on the stage. The brown skinned man came up close to Red and stepped into his personal space, making Red take notice of the subtle nuances of the scent the manager carried with him.
His name was Oscar Perez and was at least into his forties, but he carried the age well physically with his eyes showing the only signs of age with soft crows feet and an apparently smoking habit by the creases around his lips. By the smell of it, it was cigars and not cheap ones. Oscar's hair was long enough to dust his shoulders but expertly cut to look like he ran his hands through them briefly and the style complimented his rounded features and strong nose. All this was interesting, but when Red inhaled deeply, he could taste the bitter aroma of dark coffee beans, sulfur, and something smoother that he couldn't quite put his finger on. Pulling off his earphones, he leaned in close and listened to the manager.
"Why don't you start your set now?"
Red shrugged, "You don't want me to warm up the crowd first?" That's what he had always done - spun something upbeat and heavy with thumping base to get the crowd's energy up so they were excited for the headlining band.
Oscar looked into the crowd and then grinned. "They're already excited, Mr. Deardon. We've been packed for over an hour already in anticipation. They're waiting for you and Mr. Paulson to begin."
Red raised his eyebrows and then leaned back to look at JT. The latter lifted his chin in question and Red raised his hand, signaling with a spin of his finger to start. Nodding, JT began to thump the center bass drum with his right foot, starting a beat that was just low enough to get people's attention and gave Red time to switch gears. He spun his drumsticks in his hands, smiling at Red.
"Ok, we'll get started then."
Oscar slapped him on the back of his shoulder and left the stage. Catching Dom's eye, he pointed at the Spaniard and then motioned for him to come by the stage near JT. Moving toward his digital equipment, he faded out the music, garnering the attention of the crowd and turned behind him to pick up his acoustic guitar, adjusting it to filter in through the front speakers. Once Red stepped up to the microphone, JT stopped and let the crowd settle down.
Red swallowed, looking out into the crowded bar. It had filled up considerably with more people moving down into the club from the ground street. The bright lights against him cut on and he lifted his hand, blocking the glare as the crowd teetered, excitement growing.
Starting with his acoustic guitar, he began to play unaccompanied, a repeat on the same rift as his eyes searched the audience. He was looking for Camille, he realized. A rush of adrenaline coursed through him and he inhaled deeply, trying to detect her scent but with the sweat from the crowd, the multitude of scents was too overwhelming. As he finished playing the rift again, not realizing he was doing it without even thinking, he smiled into the crowd and leaned into the microphone, causing the crowd to begin clapping.
Red's voice was low and sultry as he spoke the first verse.
His fingers continued playing the repeated rift as he began to sing, his eyes moving through the crowd, making eye contact with a few of the women. JT started in at the tail end of the first verse and sang the chorus.
The crowd went nuts as Red flirted, practically singing to every single woman standing front and center of him. They had two more versus between them before he looked over at Dom who was practically jumping up and down, excited about his debut.
The song reminded him of when he first saw Cam the weekend before and his eyes looked out again, searching for her when it occurred to him to try another method.
His name was Oscar Perez and was at least into his forties, but he carried the age well physically with his eyes showing the only signs of age with soft crows feet and an apparently smoking habit by the creases around his lips. By the smell of it, it was cigars and not cheap ones. Oscar's hair was long enough to dust his shoulders but expertly cut to look like he ran his hands through them briefly and the style complimented his rounded features and strong nose. All this was interesting, but when Red inhaled deeply, he could taste the bitter aroma of dark coffee beans, sulfur, and something smoother that he couldn't quite put his finger on. Pulling off his earphones, he leaned in close and listened to the manager.
"Why don't you start your set now?"
Red shrugged, "You don't want me to warm up the crowd first?" That's what he had always done - spun something upbeat and heavy with thumping base to get the crowd's energy up so they were excited for the headlining band.
Oscar looked into the crowd and then grinned. "They're already excited, Mr. Deardon. We've been packed for over an hour already in anticipation. They're waiting for you and Mr. Paulson to begin."
Red raised his eyebrows and then leaned back to look at JT. The latter lifted his chin in question and Red raised his hand, signaling with a spin of his finger to start. Nodding, JT began to thump the center bass drum with his right foot, starting a beat that was just low enough to get people's attention and gave Red time to switch gears. He spun his drumsticks in his hands, smiling at Red.
"Ok, we'll get started then."
Oscar slapped him on the back of his shoulder and left the stage. Catching Dom's eye, he pointed at the Spaniard and then motioned for him to come by the stage near JT. Moving toward his digital equipment, he faded out the music, garnering the attention of the crowd and turned behind him to pick up his acoustic guitar, adjusting it to filter in through the front speakers. Once Red stepped up to the microphone, JT stopped and let the crowd settle down.
Red swallowed, looking out into the crowded bar. It had filled up considerably with more people moving down into the club from the ground street. The bright lights against him cut on and he lifted his hand, blocking the glare as the crowd teetered, excitement growing.
Starting with his acoustic guitar, he began to play unaccompanied, a repeat on the same rift as his eyes searched the audience. He was looking for Camille, he realized. A rush of adrenaline coursed through him and he inhaled deeply, trying to detect her scent but with the sweat from the crowd, the multitude of scents was too overwhelming. As he finished playing the rift again, not realizing he was doing it without even thinking, he smiled into the crowd and leaned into the microphone, causing the crowd to begin clapping.
Red's voice was low and sultry as he spoke the first verse.
Just something about you
The way I'm lookin at you whatever
You keep lookin at me
You gettin scared now, right?
Don't fear me baby, its just destiny
It feel good right?
Listen
The way I'm lookin at you whatever
You keep lookin at me
You gettin scared now, right?
Don't fear me baby, its just destiny
It feel good right?
Listen
His fingers continued playing the repeated rift as he began to sing, his eyes moving through the crowd, making eye contact with a few of the women. JT started in at the tail end of the first verse and sang the chorus.
I kind of noticed, from one night
From the club, your front face
It's kind of weird to me
Since you're so fine
If it's up to me your face will change
If you smile then that should set the tone (just be limber)
And if you let go the music should move your bones (just remember)
Sing that song with me
Ain't nobody love you like I love you
You're a good girl and that's what makes me trust you (hey!)
Late at night I talk to you
You will know the difference when I touch you
From the club, your front face
It's kind of weird to me
Since you're so fine
If it's up to me your face will change
JT cut in, singing from behind Red at the drums with Red adding in as the lingering voice.
If you smile then that should set the tone (just be limber)
And if you let go the music should move your bones (just remember)
Sing that song with me
The crowd roared and Red looked back at JT with a smile as he continued the song. Who knew the drummer could sing, too!
Ain't nobody love you like I love you
You're a good girl and that's what makes me trust you (hey!)
Late at night I talk to you
You will know the difference when I touch you
The crowd went nuts as Red flirted, practically singing to every single woman standing front and center of him. They had two more versus between them before he looked over at Dom who was practically jumping up and down, excited about his debut.
The song reminded him of when he first saw Cam the weekend before and his eyes looked out again, searching for her when it occurred to him to try another method.
Simon Huntington
13 years ago
Simon's face softened into a sad smile as Viv took advantage of the change of subject and dropped their flirting completely, focusing her attention on her Pipers on stage. He did a cursory sweep of the stage floor, just looking to look, and could feel the heat coming off the already gyrating bodies as the lights adjusted and a spot light focused in on the Piper with the obvious moniker. The man they called Red, but Simon had since discovered was named Eric Deardon from Europe, and a rather skilled sharpshooter, medically trained musician. The Pipers all seemed to be jacks of many trades and the Piper sitting down at the drums was no different.
James T. Paulson's background was easier to unearth than the other Pipers; prior US military until leaving for his new life last year. Another medically trained combat specialist with no glaring mental dysfunctions, at least none noted in his military personnel file. Simon dug deep with this one. His mother was American, but as far as Simon could find, his father was French Canadian.
All he knew about the Pipers was what Viv had briefly told him. They were descendants from Hammerthynn and her fiance's family. He wondered if it was just tradition or if they possessed particular skill sets that made them better candidates for Pipers. The werewolves were an interesting lot - having the foresight to cultivate their army. They weren't just dumb dogs.
Red began to play his guitar, working the crowd with a surprising amount of charm that Simon did not think the boy possessed. The crowd settled down as he started the song, only to ramp back up higher than before once they got into the meat of the song. Even Vivienne's reaction was surprising as she pulled away from Simon and began to yell the most unladylike comments. It immediately reminded him of Carol. But despite being seven months pregnant, Viv wore an off the shoulder draping dress that hugged the last remnants of her hourglass figure, enough for his libido to notice. Her shoulders were silky soft, shining with a hint of sweat. She moved in front of him as she began to move her body to the music.
The women surrounding him began to gyrate as she did, igniting the predator in him as well as arousal, enough so that he unknowingly released it into his aura with Viv and she turned and looked at him. It was a look given that accidentally triggered her own arousal, mixing with slight annoyance at Simon's lack of control.
"It's not my fault." Simon pointed up to Red, "It's him. For a skinny, red headed kid, he's being very successful at grabbing all the female attention."
Viv turned back toward the stage with a laugh and continued to move her hips. Rolling his eyes, Simon drank his beer.
James T. Paulson's background was easier to unearth than the other Pipers; prior US military until leaving for his new life last year. Another medically trained combat specialist with no glaring mental dysfunctions, at least none noted in his military personnel file. Simon dug deep with this one. His mother was American, but as far as Simon could find, his father was French Canadian.
All he knew about the Pipers was what Viv had briefly told him. They were descendants from Hammerthynn and her fiance's family. He wondered if it was just tradition or if they possessed particular skill sets that made them better candidates for Pipers. The werewolves were an interesting lot - having the foresight to cultivate their army. They weren't just dumb dogs.
Red began to play his guitar, working the crowd with a surprising amount of charm that Simon did not think the boy possessed. The crowd settled down as he started the song, only to ramp back up higher than before once they got into the meat of the song. Even Vivienne's reaction was surprising as she pulled away from Simon and began to yell the most unladylike comments. It immediately reminded him of Carol. But despite being seven months pregnant, Viv wore an off the shoulder draping dress that hugged the last remnants of her hourglass figure, enough for his libido to notice. Her shoulders were silky soft, shining with a hint of sweat. She moved in front of him as she began to move her body to the music.
The women surrounding him began to gyrate as she did, igniting the predator in him as well as arousal, enough so that he unknowingly released it into his aura with Viv and she turned and looked at him. It was a look given that accidentally triggered her own arousal, mixing with slight annoyance at Simon's lack of control.
"It's not my fault." Simon pointed up to Red, "It's him. For a skinny, red headed kid, he's being very successful at grabbing all the female attention."
Viv turned back toward the stage with a laugh and continued to move her hips. Rolling his eyes, Simon drank his beer.
Camille Sotoria
13 years ago
Cam shook her head at the waiter. She'd end up drinking too much in hopes of quelling her nervousness and she couldn't even imagine being drunk around strangers. But she supposed they weren't completely strangers, they were part of her clan, apparently.
She felt Christian's eyes on her as he sat down at the table. It felt like invisible fingers, adding to her anxiety. Reaching out mentally, she gauged him while trying not to stare. She felt the flush of embarrassment at her smile and she wondered if maybe he wasn't like her, but then his job would dictate an amazing level of observation, so again her anxiety screamed in terror as she imagined him trying to figure her out.
The waiter left and Cam took a deep breath, opening her mouth to start some sort of conversation when low, resonating thumps from the drums began to beat. The crowd settled down and she saw Red take the stage, draping the strap of his acoustic guitar over his shoulders. The spotlight flashed on and she could see him shading his eyes, looking out into the crowd. Instinctively Cam made herself smaller, trying to avoid his gaze. She managed to hide long enough for him to turn back to his music and begin his song - a catchy club scene song that was perfectly accented with his baritone voice, sending shivers down her spine. She remembered that voice, dreamed about it even, and she felt her arousal burn her skin in an all over blush.
Clearing her throat, she addressed Christian's curious statement about something called the HoP. She was curious to find out what it was, but as he dropped certain keywords, Cam's eyebrows rose in surprise.
"Is that something we should be talking about?" she asked, leaning across the table in as low a voice as she could manage with the loud music. Looking at his partner, Cam assumed he either knew or was one himself. She supposed they were safe, but you didn't survive in the dark by yelling from the shadows.
She felt Christian's eyes on her as he sat down at the table. It felt like invisible fingers, adding to her anxiety. Reaching out mentally, she gauged him while trying not to stare. She felt the flush of embarrassment at her smile and she wondered if maybe he wasn't like her, but then his job would dictate an amazing level of observation, so again her anxiety screamed in terror as she imagined him trying to figure her out.
The waiter left and Cam took a deep breath, opening her mouth to start some sort of conversation when low, resonating thumps from the drums began to beat. The crowd settled down and she saw Red take the stage, draping the strap of his acoustic guitar over his shoulders. The spotlight flashed on and she could see him shading his eyes, looking out into the crowd. Instinctively Cam made herself smaller, trying to avoid his gaze. She managed to hide long enough for him to turn back to his music and begin his song - a catchy club scene song that was perfectly accented with his baritone voice, sending shivers down her spine. She remembered that voice, dreamed about it even, and she felt her arousal burn her skin in an all over blush.
Clearing her throat, she addressed Christian's curious statement about something called the HoP. She was curious to find out what it was, but as he dropped certain keywords, Cam's eyebrows rose in surprise.
"Is that something we should be talking about?" she asked, leaning across the table in as low a voice as she could manage with the loud music. Looking at his partner, Cam assumed he either knew or was one himself. She supposed they were safe, but you didn't survive in the dark by yelling from the shadows.
Pakpao
13 years ago
Pak turned the idea of a drink over in her head. She had been craving one but now it came down to it she just wasn't interested. She did desperately want a clove though, she couldn't shake that. In some ways it was her security blanket and it did occasionally drive unwanted people off, not that she wanted to drive any of these folks off.
She offered a weak smile to Rowan when he sat next to her. She wasn't trying to pick a fight or alienate any one, she was just gifted that way.
Raising an eyebrow at Christian Pak continued her bluff of surliness, anything to cover the fact that she found him intimidating. [Today, tomorrow, fifty years from now... the threat holds.]
In the mean time she might have a little chat with MARI about Christian. Maybe the AI had some insight into their security chief. Aloud she snorted at Christian's musing.
"I don't think people go their for the music..."
She didn't, but that was another story. The HoP was a fairly open secret, but some people were more cautious than others. Besides, given the crowd's reaction to the singer they couldn't have openly discussed plans for a full on invasion of Cuba and no one would have noticed. She opted to change the subject.
"Did he get this big a reaction last time?"
Because the band was getting a hell of a reaction right now. Pak had to admit the singer was good, she wasn't sure if it was his voice or his rapport with the audience or both.
She offered a weak smile to Rowan when he sat next to her. She wasn't trying to pick a fight or alienate any one, she was just gifted that way.
Raising an eyebrow at Christian Pak continued her bluff of surliness, anything to cover the fact that she found him intimidating. [Today, tomorrow, fifty years from now... the threat holds.]
In the mean time she might have a little chat with MARI about Christian. Maybe the AI had some insight into their security chief. Aloud she snorted at Christian's musing.
"I don't think people go their for the music..."
She didn't, but that was another story. The HoP was a fairly open secret, but some people were more cautious than others. Besides, given the crowd's reaction to the singer they couldn't have openly discussed plans for a full on invasion of Cuba and no one would have noticed. She opted to change the subject.
"Did he get this big a reaction last time?"
Because the band was getting a hell of a reaction right now. Pak had to admit the singer was good, she wasn't sure if it was his voice or his rapport with the audience or both.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan smiled at Cris. [Yes, you can keep me up. Yes, we should go straight home after this and, well, you can put me in bed but what I had in mind only rhymes with 'tuck' and there aren't usually any books involved.]
He looked at Cris questioningly when his partner told him what Pak had said about the AI. [Break it? How did that ever come up? And fine... break me with your banter. I love it.]
He was still in protection mode. Rowan didn't know what Pak's problem with Cris was... if there was one. She had offered Rowan a weak smile, which he returned, but then she favored Cris with a raised eyebrow which he took to mean their silent conversation continued. Rowan's smile faded and he furrowed his brow curiously at Pak. He leaned in toward Cris just in case it wasn't readily apparent that they were there together.
The arrival of his margaritas gave him something to contemplate aside from worrying about Cris... sort of. He liked worrying about Cris. With that in mind he sighed, picked up his first drink, and chugged half of it down. He was no lightweight. If he intended to make good on his word, he had to get cracking.
He raised his eyebrows as Cam asked about Cris's comment. "Is what something we should be talking about? The vampire loving crowd?" He exchanged a curious glance with Cris, then looked at Pakpao, who also seemed to have missed the point. "Uh, as far as I know. The goth wannabes don't go there for the music. The point is, this is much better."
He indicated the band. "They're very good."
In the meantime he wondered if they had possibly made a mistake in coming over. Neither Pakpao nor Cam seemed to really desire their presence. Maybe they'd just agreed to it out of kindness. He slugged back another few gulps pf his drink.
"Do they come here a lot?"
He looked at Cris questioningly when his partner told him what Pak had said about the AI. [Break it? How did that ever come up? And fine... break me with your banter. I love it.]
He was still in protection mode. Rowan didn't know what Pak's problem with Cris was... if there was one. She had offered Rowan a weak smile, which he returned, but then she favored Cris with a raised eyebrow which he took to mean their silent conversation continued. Rowan's smile faded and he furrowed his brow curiously at Pak. He leaned in toward Cris just in case it wasn't readily apparent that they were there together.
The arrival of his margaritas gave him something to contemplate aside from worrying about Cris... sort of. He liked worrying about Cris. With that in mind he sighed, picked up his first drink, and chugged half of it down. He was no lightweight. If he intended to make good on his word, he had to get cracking.
He raised his eyebrows as Cam asked about Cris's comment. "Is what something we should be talking about? The vampire loving crowd?" He exchanged a curious glance with Cris, then looked at Pakpao, who also seemed to have missed the point. "Uh, as far as I know. The goth wannabes don't go there for the music. The point is, this is much better."
He indicated the band. "They're very good."
In the meantime he wondered if they had possibly made a mistake in coming over. Neither Pakpao nor Cam seemed to really desire their presence. Maybe they'd just agreed to it out of kindness. He slugged back another few gulps pf his drink.
"Do they come here a lot?"
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Christian listened to his partner's list of allowances and repressed an amused smile. It would seem sleeping was not a high priority in the care and maintenance of Rowan.
He made no more comment about Pak's threat, feeling it was not necessary. During the course of his work day, Cris spoke to MARI more often than he spoke to anyone else on his team. The AI helped him locate his people. She reported disturbances and calls for help. She assisted in allowing security into locked apartments, occasionally cut power to certain sections and did hundreds of other things that made her very valuable to security and a constant companion to its chief.
Answering Rowan's question he said. [I told Pak she was busted for having a social life. She said that would result in MARI being anti-social and paranoid. I told her that I would keep MARI company. Pak told me not to break her.] That about summed it up.
It seemed that Cam became more uncomfortable with his attention on her, so he returned it to the crowd around them. He personally coped with social situations by being someone else for a while. He wondered what would put his clan mate at ease and decided to start with focusing his attention elsewhere. He realized that many people in Liefde were not comfortable with his company; he was, after all, the Evenhet version of the Long Arm of the Law. That generally made him the last person anyone wanted to have in the middle of their business.
Nodding agreement to Rowan's statement, he added. "I only meant the black leather and velvet wearing crowd with their fake fangs and equally fake accents. " He smiled. "Though, as it happens, in this particular group, I think the discussion would be safe enough."
When his drink arrived, he sipped it experimentally before deciding that it was delicious and indulged in a larger swallow. "Though I do like the band that plays there from time to time. Nox Æternus. Their choices are unexpected and the singer is good."
Pak asked about a previous reaction from the crowd so he surmised she must be talking to Cam who had been here before. Rowan came to the same conclusion and asked the same question that he was on his mind. Christian took another swallow of his drink and turned his attention to the red headed singer on stage. He had a lot of presence and seemed comfortable in front of the crowd; Cris personally envied him for that ability.
He made no more comment about Pak's threat, feeling it was not necessary. During the course of his work day, Cris spoke to MARI more often than he spoke to anyone else on his team. The AI helped him locate his people. She reported disturbances and calls for help. She assisted in allowing security into locked apartments, occasionally cut power to certain sections and did hundreds of other things that made her very valuable to security and a constant companion to its chief.
Answering Rowan's question he said. [I told Pak she was busted for having a social life. She said that would result in MARI being anti-social and paranoid. I told her that I would keep MARI company. Pak told me not to break her.] That about summed it up.
It seemed that Cam became more uncomfortable with his attention on her, so he returned it to the crowd around them. He personally coped with social situations by being someone else for a while. He wondered what would put his clan mate at ease and decided to start with focusing his attention elsewhere. He realized that many people in Liefde were not comfortable with his company; he was, after all, the Evenhet version of the Long Arm of the Law. That generally made him the last person anyone wanted to have in the middle of their business.
Nodding agreement to Rowan's statement, he added. "I only meant the black leather and velvet wearing crowd with their fake fangs and equally fake accents. " He smiled. "Though, as it happens, in this particular group, I think the discussion would be safe enough."
When his drink arrived, he sipped it experimentally before deciding that it was delicious and indulged in a larger swallow. "Though I do like the band that plays there from time to time. Nox Æternus. Their choices are unexpected and the singer is good."
Pak asked about a previous reaction from the crowd so he surmised she must be talking to Cam who had been here before. Rowan came to the same conclusion and asked the same question that he was on his mind. Christian took another swallow of his drink and turned his attention to the red headed singer on stage. He had a lot of presence and seemed comfortable in front of the crowd; Cris personally envied him for that ability.
Vivienne Sena
13 years ago
"What?!" Viv yelled out as JT and Red began to sing back and forth, complimenting each other and doing justice to the Justin Timberlake song. Red had the sultry charm down to a science this time and JT rocked the hell out of his shiny new drums.
"Oh my god, what?!" she yelled out again with the entire crowd going crazy. "This is blowing my mind!"
"Mine, too," Simon said. Viv could feel his shock and surprise as it filtered into their aura and she turned back to him as she bounced up and down.
Red and JT rocked through the next two verses when suddenly Red pulled the microphone off its stand and tossed it to his right. Dom stepped up to the stage and caught the microphone in one hand and sauntered up to Red, letting the brown in him out for all to see.
"Oh my god, what?!" she yelled out again with the entire crowd going crazy. "This is blowing my mind!"
"Mine, too," Simon said. Viv could feel his shock and surprise as it filtered into their aura and she turned back to him as she bounced up and down.
Red and JT rocked through the next two verses when suddenly Red pulled the microphone off its stand and tossed it to his right. Dom stepped up to the stage and caught the microphone in one hand and sauntered up to Red, letting the brown in him out for all to see.
Ma, what you wanna do?
I'm in front of you
Grab a friend, see I can have fun with two
Or me and you put on a stage show
And the mall kids, that's how to change low
From them you heard "wow, it's the same glow"
Look at me, I say "yeah, it's the same dough"
We the same type, you my air of life
You have sleepin in the same bed, er'night
Yo rock with me, you deservin' the best
Take a few shots, let it burn in your chest
We could ride down, pumpin' N.E.R.D in the deck
Funny how a few words turned into sex
Play #3, joint called Brain
Ma, take a hint
Made me swerve in the lane
The name DOM G
And I burn every track
R...E...D, baby
Now how heavy is that?
I'm in front of you
Grab a friend, see I can have fun with two
Or me and you put on a stage show
And the mall kids, that's how to change low
From them you heard "wow, it's the same glow"
Look at me, I say "yeah, it's the same dough"
We the same type, you my air of life
You have sleepin in the same bed, er'night
Yo rock with me, you deservin' the best
Take a few shots, let it burn in your chest
We could ride down, pumpin' N.E.R.D in the deck
Funny how a few words turned into sex
Play #3, joint called Brain
Red stepped up and sang into the microphone with Dom, "I just love your... brain."
Ma, take a hint
Made me swerve in the lane
The name DOM G
And I burn every track
R...E...D, baby
Now how heavy is that?
Viv grabbed onto Simon's sleeve as she completely lost her mind. "GET OUT!!! GO DOM!"
"This is the weirdest thing I have ever seen, bar none," Simon said incredulously.
"This is the weirdest thing I have ever seen, bar none," Simon said incredulously.
Ya know, I used to dream about this when I was a little boy
Never thought it would end up this way
Drums..
Hey!
Kinda special right?
Yea, ya know, when you think about it
Sometimes people are just destined
Destined to do what they do
And that's what it is
Now everybody dance
Never thought it would end up this way
Drums..
JT began to tear up his drums, doing his solo as he brought down the house. His normally friendly face was caught up with excitement and concentration as he twirled his drumsticks and laid it down.
Hey!
Kinda special right?
Yea, ya know, when you think about it
Sometimes people are just destined
Destined to do what they do
And that's what it is
Now everybody dance
For an opening song, Viv was amazed and wondered just how they were going to top that.
"I'm surprised he hit those high notes."
"I know, right?" Viv turned back to the stage and clapped loudly when Simon whistled loudly over her head, clapping along with her. She looked at him and he shrugged, embarrassed.
"I admit it, they were good," he said with a smile.
The next thing Viv heard was the familiar guitar rift of the Police's 'Roxanne'. A secondary spotlight focused onto JT as he flawlessly played the harmony for the song, giving it its backbone. As the song drew on, Viv felt Simon stand up behind her and rest his chin on top of her head. The display of affection lacked his normal suggestive bump and grind but he put his hands along her arms and just held her. Viv began dancing against him, avoiding pressing up against anything, and just enjoyed the warmth of his affection, relieved that their aura lacked any of the usual lecherous arousal.
The song rounded the corner, coming to its end when JT really gave the final his all, standing up from his seat, raging on the cymbals, giving Red the perfect end to a perfect song. He twirled his drumstick and caught it mid fling as even Red turned around and applauded, pointing at JT.
"They are going to be so pissed they missed this."
"Where are your friends?"
"They're coming, just later. The headlining band doesn't usually start this early, so we didn't think Red and JT would either." Viv paused, letting curiosity filtering into their aura.
"What?"
"I wonder if Red's girl is here."
"Oh the young lady he, how'd you put it, hooked up with for 48hrs of nonstop...smexin'? God your grammar."
"Exactly. You'd think she'd be here, but he had a thing about commitment." Viv stood on her tip toes and looked around, seeing what she could see as Red and JT started up another song.
"I'm surprised he hit those high notes."
"I know, right?" Viv turned back to the stage and clapped loudly when Simon whistled loudly over her head, clapping along with her. She looked at him and he shrugged, embarrassed.
"I admit it, they were good," he said with a smile.
The next thing Viv heard was the familiar guitar rift of the Police's 'Roxanne'. A secondary spotlight focused onto JT as he flawlessly played the harmony for the song, giving it its backbone. As the song drew on, Viv felt Simon stand up behind her and rest his chin on top of her head. The display of affection lacked his normal suggestive bump and grind but he put his hands along her arms and just held her. Viv began dancing against him, avoiding pressing up against anything, and just enjoyed the warmth of his affection, relieved that their aura lacked any of the usual lecherous arousal.
The song rounded the corner, coming to its end when JT really gave the final his all, standing up from his seat, raging on the cymbals, giving Red the perfect end to a perfect song. He twirled his drumstick and caught it mid fling as even Red turned around and applauded, pointing at JT.
"They are going to be so pissed they missed this."
"Where are your friends?"
"They're coming, just later. The headlining band doesn't usually start this early, so we didn't think Red and JT would either." Viv paused, letting curiosity filtering into their aura.
"What?"
"I wonder if Red's girl is here."
"Oh the young lady he, how'd you put it, hooked up with for 48hrs of nonstop...smexin'? God your grammar."
"Exactly. You'd think she'd be here, but he had a thing about commitment." Viv stood on her tip toes and looked around, seeing what she could see as Red and JT started up another song.
Camille Sotoria
13 years ago
Cam considered their responses to her inquiry about the HoP. Cris' explanation as to what it was made sense - there were always those that desired to live in the alternate reality since their own was either too mundane or just unacceptable, but she went through her periods of regret for choosing the path that she had. It let her live another six hundred years with Isidoro, but she was forced to live without him for even longer. Humans had no idea how good they had it.
Biting her lip, she answered Pak and Rowan's questions about Reese with a single answer. "He is usually the DJ from what I understand and warms up the headlining band, but last week there was a problem and he stepped in with a magnificent performance. I think it surprised everyone and it looks like the success of that impromptu show got around."
Cam's attention was drawn back to the stage as she realized the drummer was singing as well and was quite good at it. She found herself tapping into the excitement of the crowd and clapped her hands as she watched Reese look incredibly handsome as he moved with the music as well as played his guitar. Suddenly a third man stepped up on stage and rapped along with Red and the drummer.
Laughing, she clapped, completely enthralled with the show and desperately wanted to run up to the stage to watch Reese closer when she remembered her table mates. With a sheepish grin, she waited for the song to end before she spoke again.
"Red is very...uh...very good." She knew a scarlet red blush filled her cheeks and she tried to temper down the arousal she was feeling.
Concentrating on the two men and Pak, Cam watched as they enjoyed their drinks. "So, how is the security business treating you, Christian? Do you and Pak work together?"
Biting her lip, she answered Pak and Rowan's questions about Reese with a single answer. "He is usually the DJ from what I understand and warms up the headlining band, but last week there was a problem and he stepped in with a magnificent performance. I think it surprised everyone and it looks like the success of that impromptu show got around."
Cam's attention was drawn back to the stage as she realized the drummer was singing as well and was quite good at it. She found herself tapping into the excitement of the crowd and clapped her hands as she watched Reese look incredibly handsome as he moved with the music as well as played his guitar. Suddenly a third man stepped up on stage and rapped along with Red and the drummer.
Laughing, she clapped, completely enthralled with the show and desperately wanted to run up to the stage to watch Reese closer when she remembered her table mates. With a sheepish grin, she waited for the song to end before she spoke again.
"Red is very...uh...very good." She knew a scarlet red blush filled her cheeks and she tried to temper down the arousal she was feeling.
Concentrating on the two men and Pak, Cam watched as they enjoyed their drinks. "So, how is the security business treating you, Christian? Do you and Pak work together?"
Pakpao
13 years ago
She couldn't figure Rowan out, Pak didn't know if it mattered or not. She was an acquired taste and she knew it. But some days she wished very Eiryk's knack to just get on with everyone. She'd seen it happen, people crossed rooms to talk to him, he just... well there was a warmth to the former Viking that people responded to. Pak took it as a personal failing that she didn't share that trait. Maybe she's see if Kem and Aishe minded her stopping by a little later.
Well this was a side to Christian that Pak wasn't familiar with. But then again, did anyone know Christian really well? Probably, some one must just not her.
"I wouldn't have thought the HoP and the velvet wearing crowd was your scene."
She said being careful to keep her tone mild and casual.
It was easy to get caught up in the energy from the stage and the crowd. It seemed like Cam was being swept up in it. Pak smiled and stiffled a giggle.
"They both are really."
Pak was just so used to holding herself apart from everyone and everything that while she could feel the energy, she wasn't part of it. It washed over and around her and she enjoyed the audience's mood, but she was happy enough to turn her attention back to Cam. She was kind of curious to hear Christian's version of that question.
Well this was a side to Christian that Pak wasn't familiar with. But then again, did anyone know Christian really well? Probably, some one must just not her.
"I wouldn't have thought the HoP and the velvet wearing crowd was your scene."
She said being careful to keep her tone mild and casual.
It was easy to get caught up in the energy from the stage and the crowd. It seemed like Cam was being swept up in it. Pak smiled and stiffled a giggle.
"They both are really."
Pak was just so used to holding herself apart from everyone and everything that while she could feel the energy, she wasn't part of it. It washed over and around her and she enjoyed the audience's mood, but she was happy enough to turn her attention back to Cam. She was kind of curious to hear Christian's version of that question.
Rowan Murphy
13 years ago
Rowan peered at Cris. [I guess I fail to follow the logic. Being busted will make... MARI anti-social? And why would you break her?] He sighed softly, certain his misunderstanding was the result of not really knowing Pakpao. Still, though, Cris's feelings were not to be toyed with. [Do you want to excuse ourselves, Cris? We can enjoy this show from the other side of the room. There is no reason for us to remain.]
He was probably reading too much into it. But Rowan had learned that a question never asked was an answer never received. Cris's comfort was of the utmost importance to him; if something someone said caused him any measure of hurt Rowan was prepared to remove that.
Listening to Camille's explanation about the DJ-turned-performer Rowan turned his attention to the stage and nodded along with the beat. "He is good. They all are."
The song choice wasn't necessarily to his liking but the ability of the performers was unquestionable. Not to mention the fact that they were clear crowd-pleasers.
Rowan's attention went back to the table at the sound of Pak's voice, neutrally giving an opinion about Cris's supposed choice of entertainment. He took another drink of his margarita and smiled at the shorter woman. There was no malice in it; Rowan liked her and generally enjoyed socializing.
"Just goes to show, you can't judge a book by its cover," he said to Pakpao with a soft laugh. "People are full of surprises. You won't learn them if you never get to know them."
It was a very subtle hint. Rowan found Cris fascinating, warm, friendly, passionate, one of the sweetest men he had ever met. All Pakpao had to do was ask. Cris did bite, but Rowan could attest to the fact that the bite was pleasant. He was going to love Christian silly once they got home. Having softly voiced his opinion, Rowan finished his first drink, started on his second, and signaled the waiter for a third.
He was probably reading too much into it. But Rowan had learned that a question never asked was an answer never received. Cris's comfort was of the utmost importance to him; if something someone said caused him any measure of hurt Rowan was prepared to remove that.
Listening to Camille's explanation about the DJ-turned-performer Rowan turned his attention to the stage and nodded along with the beat. "He is good. They all are."
The song choice wasn't necessarily to his liking but the ability of the performers was unquestionable. Not to mention the fact that they were clear crowd-pleasers.
Rowan's attention went back to the table at the sound of Pak's voice, neutrally giving an opinion about Cris's supposed choice of entertainment. He took another drink of his margarita and smiled at the shorter woman. There was no malice in it; Rowan liked her and generally enjoyed socializing.
"Just goes to show, you can't judge a book by its cover," he said to Pakpao with a soft laugh. "People are full of surprises. You won't learn them if you never get to know them."
It was a very subtle hint. Rowan found Cris fascinating, warm, friendly, passionate, one of the sweetest men he had ever met. All Pakpao had to do was ask. Cris did bite, but Rowan could attest to the fact that the bite was pleasant. He was going to love Christian silly once they got home. Having softly voiced his opinion, Rowan finished his first drink, started on his second, and signaled the waiter for a third.
Christian Bern
13 years ago
Christian listened to Cam's explanation about the group on stage with fascination. They had only done this live only once before? No wonder there was so a powerful reaction; apparently they were naturally very good. He wondered if they had worked together as a band previously. If they practiced often in the past then that at least explained how they were comfortable with each other, but they still had a lot of showmanship. Some people were just born performers.
"Who knows that luck break could later be the beginning of a VH1 Behind the Music episode."
The next song he had heard often enough, remembering when the Police were virtually unknown themselves.
He answered Rowan's question while taking another sip of his margarita. [Well I imagine if Pak is not allowed out once and a while then she would be cranky and as one of the main programmers on MARI it might just translate into a grumpy and anti-social AI. As for how I would break. I am not entirely certain but I believe she was suggesting that I might not be the best at entertaining conversation.] Squeezing the hand in his, Cris hid his smile behind his large goblet of frozen alcoholic goodness. Rowan's offer was thoughtful. [No, I don't want to leave Camille. I have a feeling that she could use a friend or two tonight. Besides she thinks we're cute.] The last sentence was sent with bemused humor.
Turning his attention back to Pakpao, he was about to state that he had a secret love of crushed velvet and eyeliner when his partner spoke up with a mild rebuke and advice. Rowan's protective streak was touching; when was the last time anyone ever thought he needed to be protected? He might not be able to remember back that far.
He leaned over so that everyone at the table could hear him without him having to shout. "Our esteemed leader occasionally likes to slum it." Christian leaned back. "Someone has to keep an eye on him." Yes, he totally threw Alfarinn under the bus. What he said was completely true; the elder of Evenhet did go to the HoP from time to time and he had been there in the capacity of security more than once. Of course those weren't the only times he had been to the House of Pain, not even by half.
Returning his attention to the singer's pleading with Roxanne to give up her life of prostitution, Cris nodded to Camille. He kept his eyes on the stage and not on the brilliant shade of red that his clan mate had just become. It would seem easy enough to deduce where the more romantic emotions he had seen in her aura were coming from. "He is very good."
In answer to her question, he smiled. "I have recently found that I work entirely too much but I still enjoy it. Solving crimes, protecting our people and trying to keep the peace. Some might find it depressing but I find it fulfilling." It was his way of contributing to Evenhet with the skills that he had. "I do not see much of IT unless one of them snaps and goes on an energy drink fueled rampage through the Towers but occasionally in the case of high tech crimes we do consult with our local computer gurus." Security had their own tech people but sometimes the more expansive knowledge of the best of the best was needed and those people worked with MARI.
"What about you, Camille? I have seen you in the Towers. Do you work there as well?"
Cris slid Rowan's drink toward him again with an impish grin. "You sure you don't want to play that drinking game?" [We could always do a round of Never Ever. That should be interesting in a group of stodgy old immortals. Of course we might have to get really creative or no one will go home drunk.]
"Who knows that luck break could later be the beginning of a VH1 Behind the Music episode."
The next song he had heard often enough, remembering when the Police were virtually unknown themselves.
He answered Rowan's question while taking another sip of his margarita. [Well I imagine if Pak is not allowed out once and a while then she would be cranky and as one of the main programmers on MARI it might just translate into a grumpy and anti-social AI. As for how I would break. I am not entirely certain but I believe she was suggesting that I might not be the best at entertaining conversation.] Squeezing the hand in his, Cris hid his smile behind his large goblet of frozen alcoholic goodness. Rowan's offer was thoughtful. [No, I don't want to leave Camille. I have a feeling that she could use a friend or two tonight. Besides she thinks we're cute.] The last sentence was sent with bemused humor.
Turning his attention back to Pakpao, he was about to state that he had a secret love of crushed velvet and eyeliner when his partner spoke up with a mild rebuke and advice. Rowan's protective streak was touching; when was the last time anyone ever thought he needed to be protected? He might not be able to remember back that far.
He leaned over so that everyone at the table could hear him without him having to shout. "Our esteemed leader occasionally likes to slum it." Christian leaned back. "Someone has to keep an eye on him." Yes, he totally threw Alfarinn under the bus. What he said was completely true; the elder of Evenhet did go to the HoP from time to time and he had been there in the capacity of security more than once. Of course those weren't the only times he had been to the House of Pain, not even by half.
Returning his attention to the singer's pleading with Roxanne to give up her life of prostitution, Cris nodded to Camille. He kept his eyes on the stage and not on the brilliant shade of red that his clan mate had just become. It would seem easy enough to deduce where the more romantic emotions he had seen in her aura were coming from. "He is very good."
In answer to her question, he smiled. "I have recently found that I work entirely too much but I still enjoy it. Solving crimes, protecting our people and trying to keep the peace. Some might find it depressing but I find it fulfilling." It was his way of contributing to Evenhet with the skills that he had. "I do not see much of IT unless one of them snaps and goes on an energy drink fueled rampage through the Towers but occasionally in the case of high tech crimes we do consult with our local computer gurus." Security had their own tech people but sometimes the more expansive knowledge of the best of the best was needed and those people worked with MARI.
"What about you, Camille? I have seen you in the Towers. Do you work there as well?"
Cris slid Rowan's drink toward him again with an impish grin. "You sure you don't want to play that drinking game?" [We could always do a round of Never Ever. That should be interesting in a group of stodgy old immortals. Of course we might have to get really creative or no one will go home drunk.]