It sounded like he was an elementary school teacher the way Kiyo said it. But at least he'd used his name so Navid didn't push it. At least they were on a first name basis. Besides, he had promised to try and be more approachable so it was good enough for now.
He winced slightly when placed in the Kadzait. Not that he had any issues with the other pack, but he had a great deal of pride in his Pack and who he was.
"No. You are my cousin as all members of the Vyusher R'asa are my cousins regardless of their origins."
It was said very carefully and he deliberately went out of his way to clarify that he had no issues that Kiyo was not born of the Pack. He was part of it now, and that was all that mattered. Perhaps that wasn't true of all of the R'asa but it was his feelings.
"Yes, I am. Mostly smaller aircraft, midsized, nothing like the commercial jets. I enjoy it a great deal. But the first little old lady that makes me a cozy of any sort may end my career."
He rolled his eyes at Evan.
Ah! A question, granted it was addressed to the more approachable Evan, but still it was a promising sign. Although, given the question, he couldn't help but bark a laugh.
"Never as a mulo what they used to do, at least not if you don't have an hour or five free."
Yes it sounded curt and nasty, but as it wasn't addressed to Kiyo he didn't think it should bother the other wolf in the group. With any luck it should put Kiyo more at ease knowing that they could be themselves with Evan and that he was one, if not the only, vampire that was decent.
Word of Mouth (Invite Only)
Kiyoshi looked down at himself and made a face. He wasn't dressed up for this. Should he have bought a suit? But who went to an interview in a suit? Well, a bartending interview, that is.
He was dressed plainly in jeans and sneakers, a deep blue tee with a faded "42" on the front in white. It was simple, unassuming, and most importantly, Kiyo could move in it. His long hair was neatly braided, hanging down his back in a single thick rope, and he had his backpack slung over his shoulder. He always used his own equipment when he flairtended and he assumed that that would be a part of any interview, if he was able to get one.
He looked at the series of buildings and abandoned airplanes that sprawled out in front of him. There was no doubt this was the place. The area was quiet. There was a car out front. Walking up to the main entrance Kiyoshi cautiously pushed the door open and peered inside.
"Hello?"
His voice echoed across a large dance floor. Beyond that was a long sleek chrome bar. At the moment it was stacked high with boxes and bottles and boxes of bottles. Kiyoshi didn't see anyone immediately. His inclination was to turn around and leave, come back later, but he needed a job and he didn't want to lose an opportunity.
He slid inside the door and let it close softly behind him. "Excuse me? Is there anyone here?"
It was a large place. There had to be someone around somewhere. He would find them. He opened up his senses for anything that indicated the presence of another person.
Guillaume
13 years ago
Kiyoshi Salinas
13 years ago
Kiyoshi stared at Guillaume for a moment, mouth shaped in a small "o" of surprise. He wasn't used to being an automatic equal. Time would tell. He had had too many run-ins with segregationists to trust that outlook immediately.
As he continued to unload boxes for Evan, Kiyoshi listened to Guillaume speak about his job. "I love flying," he said when it was convenient for him to do so. He did it a lot for various competitions and always enjoyed it.
No sooner had he thought he might be getting along with Guillaume, though, then the much larger man reprimanded him in a curt, cruel tone for asking questions of Evan. Kiyo shrank back visibly and continued to unpack from behind the safety of an empty stack of boxes.
Evan answered his question though and Kiyo was fascinated by it. "How many years?" he asked. Then he ducked his head. "I'm sorry. Am I allowed to ask? I shouldn't have."
Both men had jobs that sounded like they had to be very smart, very sharp. Kiyo could not say the same. He hadn't even gone to college. He didn't consider himself very smart. "You both have incredible jobs," he said. "Why Terminus, then?"
When asked about his own pass times Kiyoshi smiled and shrugged. "Nothing big. I like movement a lot so I like to keep my hands busy. I juggle, I do diabolo, I can eat fire." Kiyo stopped and reflected; those were skills, not pass times.
Handing yet another empty case to Evan Kiyoshi finally said, "Candles. I like to make candles. That's all really."
As he continued to unload boxes for Evan, Kiyoshi listened to Guillaume speak about his job. "I love flying," he said when it was convenient for him to do so. He did it a lot for various competitions and always enjoyed it.
No sooner had he thought he might be getting along with Guillaume, though, then the much larger man reprimanded him in a curt, cruel tone for asking questions of Evan. Kiyo shrank back visibly and continued to unpack from behind the safety of an empty stack of boxes.
Evan answered his question though and Kiyo was fascinated by it. "How many years?" he asked. Then he ducked his head. "I'm sorry. Am I allowed to ask? I shouldn't have."
Both men had jobs that sounded like they had to be very smart, very sharp. Kiyo could not say the same. He hadn't even gone to college. He didn't consider himself very smart. "You both have incredible jobs," he said. "Why Terminus, then?"
When asked about his own pass times Kiyoshi smiled and shrugged. "Nothing big. I like movement a lot so I like to keep my hands busy. I juggle, I do diabolo, I can eat fire." Kiyo stopped and reflected; those were skills, not pass times.
Handing yet another empty case to Evan Kiyoshi finally said, "Candles. I like to make candles. That's all really."
Evan Talkingwater
13 years ago
"Really?" He smiled at Kiyoshi. "Then you'll fit in well here. We both love to fly." Of course, his personal favorite way to fly did not allow for passengers unless they could shift into a mosquito.
Evan chuckled at Guillaume's insistence that a knitted cozy would be the end of his piloting career. He wondered if that was because the wolf would eat the little old lady or because he'd make the little old lady eat the cozy.
Guillaume sharply pointed out that vampires lived long enough to be able to wax loquacious about their past jobs and lives and that it was ill advised to ask them about such things. His partner's sense of humor took some getting used to. Taking the next bottle from Kiyoshi, he then rested against the counter and leaned back on his elbows. Evan crossed his feet at the ankles and tilted his head back and took a deep breath as if to begin a long story.
"Ah I remember it like it was yesterday, the time, back in 1702 when I was an accountant...." He stood up straight and winked at their new bartender before putting the bottle away.
From his new place under the bar, he answered Kiyoshi's question. "I'm around two thousand. Its fine to ask. If there is anything else about me you want to know then ask. Its okay." He could understand the werewolf being curious, perhaps even suspicious. Evan was grateful that Kiyoshi seemed willing to look past his race and appeared to be growing more comfortable with his presence. So long as the shifter's questions were about himself then he didn't mind speaking and explaining but if the answer would divulge clan secrets then he would have to decline to speak about it but he would at least explain why.
Evan stood up and reached for another bottle, he looked at Guillaume and then back at Kiyoshi with a shrug when he asked why they wanted to open a bar. "Boredom?" He smiled. "Now that wolves are coming back into the cities. Its a good idea to give them a place to go where they can socialize, let off a little steam, be themselves. Sure the woods are great for running around on all fours with your buddies but there aren't many places to safely congregate in the city. Now there is at least one." And if his own people found out then he was potentially in deep trouble. Still, when he and Guillaume talked about this place, he hoped that it would help avoid a larger war. Tensions between the two races were running higher and higher the longer the two shared the same living space. Perhaps this time large scale blood shed could be avoided if the leaders could manage to get it together and cooperate before another war occurred. A safe haven for the shifters might just be the one thing that adds a little more balance to the volatile scene.
He looked over at Kiyoshi and grinned. "Fire, hmm? Doesn't sound very appetizing..." Evan could guess about the juggling, after all Kiyoshi had already juggled bottles once today. "Fun to watch though. I will stick to my own diet which, surprisingly, now seems more normal somehow." He grinned and tossed another box away.
"Candles? That sounds interesting. After all the neon in here, candlelight is probably going to be a blessing. You might want to make a bunch more. What are your favorite to make?"
Evan chuckled at Guillaume's insistence that a knitted cozy would be the end of his piloting career. He wondered if that was because the wolf would eat the little old lady or because he'd make the little old lady eat the cozy.
Guillaume sharply pointed out that vampires lived long enough to be able to wax loquacious about their past jobs and lives and that it was ill advised to ask them about such things. His partner's sense of humor took some getting used to. Taking the next bottle from Kiyoshi, he then rested against the counter and leaned back on his elbows. Evan crossed his feet at the ankles and tilted his head back and took a deep breath as if to begin a long story.
"Ah I remember it like it was yesterday, the time, back in 1702 when I was an accountant...." He stood up straight and winked at their new bartender before putting the bottle away.
From his new place under the bar, he answered Kiyoshi's question. "I'm around two thousand. Its fine to ask. If there is anything else about me you want to know then ask. Its okay." He could understand the werewolf being curious, perhaps even suspicious. Evan was grateful that Kiyoshi seemed willing to look past his race and appeared to be growing more comfortable with his presence. So long as the shifter's questions were about himself then he didn't mind speaking and explaining but if the answer would divulge clan secrets then he would have to decline to speak about it but he would at least explain why.
Evan stood up and reached for another bottle, he looked at Guillaume and then back at Kiyoshi with a shrug when he asked why they wanted to open a bar. "Boredom?" He smiled. "Now that wolves are coming back into the cities. Its a good idea to give them a place to go where they can socialize, let off a little steam, be themselves. Sure the woods are great for running around on all fours with your buddies but there aren't many places to safely congregate in the city. Now there is at least one." And if his own people found out then he was potentially in deep trouble. Still, when he and Guillaume talked about this place, he hoped that it would help avoid a larger war. Tensions between the two races were running higher and higher the longer the two shared the same living space. Perhaps this time large scale blood shed could be avoided if the leaders could manage to get it together and cooperate before another war occurred. A safe haven for the shifters might just be the one thing that adds a little more balance to the volatile scene.
He looked over at Kiyoshi and grinned. "Fire, hmm? Doesn't sound very appetizing..." Evan could guess about the juggling, after all Kiyoshi had already juggled bottles once today. "Fun to watch though. I will stick to my own diet which, surprisingly, now seems more normal somehow." He grinned and tossed another box away.
"Candles? That sounds interesting. After all the neon in here, candlelight is probably going to be a blessing. You might want to make a bunch more. What are your favorite to make?"
Guillaume
13 years ago
He wanted to beat his head against a wall with this wolf. It was two steps forward, three steps back. And Navid wasn't terribly good at the whole kid gloves thing. The only way Kiyo could be managing in the pack was either hiding or being nearly totally submissive. God in heaven how did one live like that. He waited until he had Evan's eye but Kiyo wouldn't see and made a face that very clearly indicated his frustration.
Snorting into his drink he totally ignored Evan's rambling He decided to try again with Kiyo though.
"Thank you, but really I've done a great deal in my 'career' if you can call it that. Flying is the first thing I've done really because I want to."
He nodded appropriately at Kiyo's hobbies, which seemed a bit unusual, almost circus like. But he didn't pass judgment.
"Unusual skills. But they must have helped with your flair somewhat."
Evan's answer was as good as any and he shrugged as well in agreement.
"Oui. I am here on something of an extended errand," Thérèse would kill him if she heard him refer to her as an errand, "And I am not terribly good at being idle. I have hope this will keep me occupied even if it is mostly behind the scenes. I am quite happy to let you have the glamorous job."
Why wolves were coming into the cities he didn't know. His cousin was one of those that felt it had merit. She hated living how the mulo told her to live. Navid would have preferred a more settled lifestyle for his people, but if it let them safe, he wasn't sure it was wrong to live on the fringes.
His more philosophical thoughts let Kiyo and Evan get to know each other. Navid wasn't giving up he was just backing off... a bit.
Snorting into his drink he totally ignored Evan's rambling He decided to try again with Kiyo though.
"Thank you, but really I've done a great deal in my 'career' if you can call it that. Flying is the first thing I've done really because I want to."
He nodded appropriately at Kiyo's hobbies, which seemed a bit unusual, almost circus like. But he didn't pass judgment.
"Unusual skills. But they must have helped with your flair somewhat."
Evan's answer was as good as any and he shrugged as well in agreement.
"Oui. I am here on something of an extended errand," Thérèse would kill him if she heard him refer to her as an errand, "And I am not terribly good at being idle. I have hope this will keep me occupied even if it is mostly behind the scenes. I am quite happy to let you have the glamorous job."
Why wolves were coming into the cities he didn't know. His cousin was one of those that felt it had merit. She hated living how the mulo told her to live. Navid would have preferred a more settled lifestyle for his people, but if it let them safe, he wasn't sure it was wrong to live on the fringes.
His more philosophical thoughts let Kiyo and Evan get to know each other. Navid wasn't giving up he was just backing off... a bit.
Kiyoshi Salinas
13 years ago
Kiyoshi returned Evan's smile while he continued to unpack boxes. He wasn't willing to jump right on board with that sentiment. Evan didn't know just how badly he wanted those words to be true. He wanted to fit in somewhere. With somebody. So far he was starting to think that was a pipe dream.
He peeked out from behind his boxes to watch Guillaume with wide eyes when he said he was doing what he wanted. "You're very lucky," he said softly.
His eyes grew wider when Evan answered his question. On his hands and knees on the bar Kiyoshi peered over the edge of it, his braid dangling over his shoulder, to look at the man beneath the bar. "Really? Two thousand?"
He pushed himself back up and continued handing down bottles, overcome with sympathy. Who would want to live that long? How did Evan bear it? He was fascinated and appalled at the same time. He had a million questions, really, but he couldn't think of any way to force them past his lips. Maybe another time.
He was curious that the one who seemed more concerned for the well being of the werewolves was the vampire, while his Packmate expressed his reasons in terms of simply wanting something to do. He wanted to ask Evan why that was but it didn't seem the time or the place. He wanted to ask Guillaume if that meant he was not going to be staying, since it seemed he was only doing this to kill time while on an errand, but that would make it seem like he was eager; he realized that they hadn't exactly gotten off to a comfortable start.
Kiyoshi smiled again at Evan's comparison between diets. "At least it's low cal," he said regarding his fire-eating. "But yeah. They've helped." That last was for Guillaume, who had commented on Kiyo's odd assortment of skills.
The conversation moved on, Kiyo happily noting that so far the awkward silences had been kept to a minimum. "All kinds," Kiyo answered Evan when he asked about candles. "My favorite are beeswax though. Tapers, not pillars. They burn longer."
Kiyo loved flames. The longer his candles burned the happier he was. He could literally stare at them for hours.
He peeked out from behind his boxes to watch Guillaume with wide eyes when he said he was doing what he wanted. "You're very lucky," he said softly.
His eyes grew wider when Evan answered his question. On his hands and knees on the bar Kiyoshi peered over the edge of it, his braid dangling over his shoulder, to look at the man beneath the bar. "Really? Two thousand?"
He pushed himself back up and continued handing down bottles, overcome with sympathy. Who would want to live that long? How did Evan bear it? He was fascinated and appalled at the same time. He had a million questions, really, but he couldn't think of any way to force them past his lips. Maybe another time.
He was curious that the one who seemed more concerned for the well being of the werewolves was the vampire, while his Packmate expressed his reasons in terms of simply wanting something to do. He wanted to ask Evan why that was but it didn't seem the time or the place. He wanted to ask Guillaume if that meant he was not going to be staying, since it seemed he was only doing this to kill time while on an errand, but that would make it seem like he was eager; he realized that they hadn't exactly gotten off to a comfortable start.
Kiyoshi smiled again at Evan's comparison between diets. "At least it's low cal," he said regarding his fire-eating. "But yeah. They've helped." That last was for Guillaume, who had commented on Kiyo's odd assortment of skills.
The conversation moved on, Kiyo happily noting that so far the awkward silences had been kept to a minimum. "All kinds," Kiyo answered Evan when he asked about candles. "My favorite are beeswax though. Tapers, not pillars. They burn longer."
Kiyo loved flames. The longer his candles burned the happier he was. He could literally stare at them for hours.
Evan Talkingwater
13 years ago
Evan smiled sympathetically at Guillaume's look of frustration, and shrugged his shoulders slightly. He figured that his friend would like Kiyoshi to be more assertive and no doubt he worried about the man getting along with the many wolves that had migrated to Nachton recently. It made him wonder; was Kiyoshi this quiet as a wolf? He had learned over the many years of associating with the shifters that their transformation was not like that of a vampire. Evan had witnessed the physical difference first hand more than once. Transformation for the wolves looked painful and he was personally glad that this was not the case for his own second form. He had been told that there was more instinct and animal nature involved in the change for werewolves than there was for a vampire. The difference fascinated him.
While under the bar, he felt Kiyoshi move, shifting closer. Evan tilted his head back and smiled up at the face looking down at him. "Yep, Don't look a day over a thousand, do I? Its all my clean living."
He laughed and had to agree that fire eating did not put on the pounds. "It gives a whole new meaning to hot food though, and does that give you indigestion?" Evan grinned as he accepted a couple more bottles.
Kiyoshi explained about his favorite candles and he nodded thoughtfully. "Those smell nice. Natural not perfumy like so many of the fake fragrances that get put into candles these days. Though I did find one not too long ago that did actually smell like a freshly cut lawn. I thought to myself what would be the purpose of that." Evan smiled over at Kiyoshi. "I figure it was for wives to light and put it near their husbands on the weekends in the hopes that they get the hint." He shrugged slightly. "I doubt it would work. We don't tend to be the most subtle of creatures...or we're really good at ignoring those little unspoken requests."
They were almost done putting away the bottles, he turned to Guillaume. "We're nearly finished. Any preference on what to work on next?"
While under the bar, he felt Kiyoshi move, shifting closer. Evan tilted his head back and smiled up at the face looking down at him. "Yep, Don't look a day over a thousand, do I? Its all my clean living."
He laughed and had to agree that fire eating did not put on the pounds. "It gives a whole new meaning to hot food though, and does that give you indigestion?" Evan grinned as he accepted a couple more bottles.
Kiyoshi explained about his favorite candles and he nodded thoughtfully. "Those smell nice. Natural not perfumy like so many of the fake fragrances that get put into candles these days. Though I did find one not too long ago that did actually smell like a freshly cut lawn. I thought to myself what would be the purpose of that." Evan smiled over at Kiyoshi. "I figure it was for wives to light and put it near their husbands on the weekends in the hopes that they get the hint." He shrugged slightly. "I doubt it would work. We don't tend to be the most subtle of creatures...or we're really good at ignoring those little unspoken requests."
They were almost done putting away the bottles, he turned to Guillaume. "We're nearly finished. Any preference on what to work on next?"
Guillaume
13 years ago
It had taken some time for Navid to place what was striking him as odd about Kiyo, well one of the things. It was his interactions with Evan, there was no resentment, no suspicion and Kiyo seemed happy enough to do what Evan told him. Most wolves he knew would at least have to think about this and would not take orders from a vampire just blindly. Even Navid hadn't warmed up to the mulo immediately.
"Only some days."
He said quietly. They all had their share of troubles, Navid included. He didn't share them often, but there was no point in denying he had them.
He chuckled quietly as Kiyo expressed some amazement over Evan's age and they compared notes on candles and diets. As much trouble as he was having relating to Kiyo he didn't dislike the man. All in all he was rather enjoying this cozey little near domestic scene.
"I almost feel I should get up and help. How about the glasses. I have no idea if we have too many or not enough. I just signed for them this morning."
Every now and then, Navid thought that Evan only tolerated him because he was awake and able to sign for packages during the day.
"Only some days."
He said quietly. They all had their share of troubles, Navid included. He didn't share them often, but there was no point in denying he had them.
He chuckled quietly as Kiyo expressed some amazement over Evan's age and they compared notes on candles and diets. As much trouble as he was having relating to Kiyo he didn't dislike the man. All in all he was rather enjoying this cozey little near domestic scene.
"I almost feel I should get up and help. How about the glasses. I have no idea if we have too many or not enough. I just signed for them this morning."
Every now and then, Navid thought that Evan only tolerated him because he was awake and able to sign for packages during the day.
Kiyoshi Salinas
13 years ago
Kiyoshi flashed a quick smile at Guillaume, acknowledging the realism of his words. He didn't add anything; there didn't seem to be a need. They all had their ups and downs.
In the meantime Kiyoshi was enjoying Evan's banter. He didn't know if Evan was normally so chatty or if he was trying to put Kiyoshi at ease but it was working either way. He liked the lighthearted conversation. Tossing an empty box down he tapped his chest. "Little heartburn on occasion but otherwise it's just hot enough."
Evan's theory on freshly-cut grass scent was equally amusing and Kiyoshi just shrugged his shoulders, unable to offer another idea. "I don't like the scented stuff myself," he said. "I just find the flames relaxing. I've done some work with fragrance but not a lot, and mostly in pillar candles instead of tapers."
When they finished unpacking the bottles Kiyoshi hopped lightly down from the bar and waited while his new employers decided on what would be unpacked next. He had to admit it was a little exciting, starting a new bar like this from the ground up. He was sure at some point he'd get to explore the whole place but for now he was happy to have found a job at all. When he had a few paychecks under his belt he would feel better. He normally wasn't hard up for cash but he hadn't had a job in a few months and his well-planned reserves were drying up.
He had to admit to a little bit of fear too... this was a rare opportunity. A place where the people here understood and accepted the fact that he would be missing a significant block of work once a month. This was someplace he could stay on long-term, unafraid of being terminated for poor attendance. Ironic that the name of the place was Terminus.
But would he fit in? That was the question, and that was why he was so anxious. Kiyo never fit in anywhere. He did want this job, but he shrank back from the thought of being a complete outsider for the rest of his life.
He dragged his attention back to the topic at hand. Guillaume had commented on the glasses and Kiyo's opinion was that there was no such thing as too many glasses at a bar, and 'not enough' could be quickly remedied. He kept silent on the topic however. He didn't think his opinion was necessary, and Evan's question had not been addressed to him.
In the meantime Kiyoshi was enjoying Evan's banter. He didn't know if Evan was normally so chatty or if he was trying to put Kiyoshi at ease but it was working either way. He liked the lighthearted conversation. Tossing an empty box down he tapped his chest. "Little heartburn on occasion but otherwise it's just hot enough."
Evan's theory on freshly-cut grass scent was equally amusing and Kiyoshi just shrugged his shoulders, unable to offer another idea. "I don't like the scented stuff myself," he said. "I just find the flames relaxing. I've done some work with fragrance but not a lot, and mostly in pillar candles instead of tapers."
When they finished unpacking the bottles Kiyoshi hopped lightly down from the bar and waited while his new employers decided on what would be unpacked next. He had to admit it was a little exciting, starting a new bar like this from the ground up. He was sure at some point he'd get to explore the whole place but for now he was happy to have found a job at all. When he had a few paychecks under his belt he would feel better. He normally wasn't hard up for cash but he hadn't had a job in a few months and his well-planned reserves were drying up.
He had to admit to a little bit of fear too... this was a rare opportunity. A place where the people here understood and accepted the fact that he would be missing a significant block of work once a month. This was someplace he could stay on long-term, unafraid of being terminated for poor attendance. Ironic that the name of the place was Terminus.
But would he fit in? That was the question, and that was why he was so anxious. Kiyo never fit in anywhere. He did want this job, but he shrank back from the thought of being a complete outsider for the rest of his life.
He dragged his attention back to the topic at hand. Guillaume had commented on the glasses and Kiyo's opinion was that there was no such thing as too many glasses at a bar, and 'not enough' could be quickly remedied. He kept silent on the topic however. He didn't think his opinion was necessary, and Evan's question had not been addressed to him.
Evan Talkingwater
13 years ago
Evan smiled at Kiyoshi and shook his head at the heart burn. He would stick to his liquid diet that didn't cause him to go up in a ball of flames.
It would seem from the various hobbies of their new bartender that he was something of a pyro. At least Kiyoshi was channeling it into healthy ways of expression instead of burning buildings or setting forest fires. Evan wondered what about the flames so transfixed the young wolf, was it a happy memory or just something about the crackle and snap of the dancing light?
"I suppose I can understand that."
Turning to Guillaume, he crossed his arms over his chest. "Almost feel hmm? Its okay, Shoeless Joe. You've had a rough day."
"I'll be right back." Evan walked to the stock room and found the boxes that Guillaume had signed for earlier that day. Bringing a stack in on a hand truck, he set them down next to the bar.
"So how are you getting along in Nachton so far? Made friends, seen the sights?"
It would seem from the various hobbies of their new bartender that he was something of a pyro. At least Kiyoshi was channeling it into healthy ways of expression instead of burning buildings or setting forest fires. Evan wondered what about the flames so transfixed the young wolf, was it a happy memory or just something about the crackle and snap of the dancing light?
"I suppose I can understand that."
Turning to Guillaume, he crossed his arms over his chest. "Almost feel hmm? Its okay, Shoeless Joe. You've had a rough day."
"I'll be right back." Evan walked to the stock room and found the boxes that Guillaume had signed for earlier that day. Bringing a stack in on a hand truck, he set them down next to the bar.
"So how are you getting along in Nachton so far? Made friends, seen the sights?"
Guillaume
13 years ago
Ah, a bit of a firebug. They had those in the Pack. So long as he didn't burn down anything terribly important Navid never really worried about it.
He happened to agree with Kiyo about the scented candles though and shook his head at Evan.
"Mon ami when your nose is as sensitive as ours you might find scent distracting as well."
Even most of their women didn't often wear perfume and when they did it was usually quite subtle.
He snorted after Evan as he left to find the glasses. But Guillaume stood, polished off his drink, stretched and came around the bar. He gathered up the empty boxes of alcohol and folded them flat. They would be stored and reused later. Both he and Evan disliked waste. As he stored the boxes he also found a clip board and some paper to make note of any glasses that were broken. He have to go to the supplier to have anything that arrived broken replaced and he needed an accurate count.
"Yes, Kiyo have you been here long? I don't seem to recall seeing you around the grounds. Of course I have been here in most of my off hours."
There was a lot to do getting Terminus up and running. And his skills as a mechanic had been oddly useful. He blamed Evan's fascination with the baggage carts and carousels. Of course if they got those up and running well it would be a very unique touch and he did quite enjoy winding up covered in grease and being able to see the results as they started functioning the again. The one carousel was giving him fits though. He'd have to fidget with that again tomorrow.
He happened to agree with Kiyo about the scented candles though and shook his head at Evan.
"Mon ami when your nose is as sensitive as ours you might find scent distracting as well."
Even most of their women didn't often wear perfume and when they did it was usually quite subtle.
He snorted after Evan as he left to find the glasses. But Guillaume stood, polished off his drink, stretched and came around the bar. He gathered up the empty boxes of alcohol and folded them flat. They would be stored and reused later. Both he and Evan disliked waste. As he stored the boxes he also found a clip board and some paper to make note of any glasses that were broken. He have to go to the supplier to have anything that arrived broken replaced and he needed an accurate count.
"Yes, Kiyo have you been here long? I don't seem to recall seeing you around the grounds. Of course I have been here in most of my off hours."
There was a lot to do getting Terminus up and running. And his skills as a mechanic had been oddly useful. He blamed Evan's fascination with the baggage carts and carousels. Of course if they got those up and running well it would be a very unique touch and he did quite enjoy winding up covered in grease and being able to see the results as they started functioning the again. The one carousel was giving him fits though. He'd have to fidget with that again tomorrow.
Kiyoshi Salinas
13 years ago
Kiyoshi remained silent while Evan and Guillaume bantered easily. When Evan left he felt awkward and uncomfortable, not quite knowing how to take his Packmate. He joined him in collapsing and stacking cardboard boxes, but neither of them said anything until Evan's return.
The focus immediately went to Kiyoshi as his new employers asked about his experiences in Nachton. He felt heat rise to his cheeks. Kiyoshi was not good at exploring, nor was he any great shakes at making friends.
"I haven't been here long at all," he said, offering both men a smile. "I'll check the city out one of these days."
Neither man needed to know about his ineptitude at either task. Kiyoshi was used to figuring things out on his own. He would explore the city. Soon. And he didn't really need friends. Therefore he avoided directly answering that question. Surely the fact that he was a newcomer would explain why he hadn't really met anyone yet.
It wouldn't matter soon. He would start working and then he could spend his evenings and most of his nights behind the bar at Terminus, where he could be more comfortable. He would busy himself with the running of Evan and Guillaume's business, make himself as indispensable as possible, and throw himself into working. He sighed contentedly at that prospect. All that mattered was that he be allowed to stay.
To answer Guillaume he said, "I will be staying on the grounds. I do have a room there. But really, I've been here less than 24 hours."
He moved to the hand truck that Evan had brought in and opened the top box. Carefully packed in a styrofoam case was a shipment of martini glasses. Kiyoshi began to remove them one by one, setting them up on the bar top so they could see clearly any flaws of imperfections in the glass.
The focus immediately went to Kiyoshi as his new employers asked about his experiences in Nachton. He felt heat rise to his cheeks. Kiyoshi was not good at exploring, nor was he any great shakes at making friends.
"I haven't been here long at all," he said, offering both men a smile. "I'll check the city out one of these days."
Neither man needed to know about his ineptitude at either task. Kiyoshi was used to figuring things out on his own. He would explore the city. Soon. And he didn't really need friends. Therefore he avoided directly answering that question. Surely the fact that he was a newcomer would explain why he hadn't really met anyone yet.
It wouldn't matter soon. He would start working and then he could spend his evenings and most of his nights behind the bar at Terminus, where he could be more comfortable. He would busy himself with the running of Evan and Guillaume's business, make himself as indispensable as possible, and throw himself into working. He sighed contentedly at that prospect. All that mattered was that he be allowed to stay.
To answer Guillaume he said, "I will be staying on the grounds. I do have a room there. But really, I've been here less than 24 hours."
He moved to the hand truck that Evan had brought in and opened the top box. Carefully packed in a styrofoam case was a shipment of martini glasses. Kiyoshi began to remove them one by one, setting them up on the bar top so they could see clearly any flaws of imperfections in the glass.
Evan Talkingwater
13 years ago
Evan simply smiled at his friend across the bar. Perhaps the werewolf nose was better than that of a vampire but he doubted it; at least not in human form. And if there was blood involved then there was no better tracker for it than one of his own kind. Still, a certain amount of racial pride was to be expected and he didn't begrudge any of the shifters for feeling it.
"So that guy we relocated last month was definitely not a werewolf. Is that what you're saying?" He knew Guillaume would know exactly which man he meant; the guy seemed to have been attacked by a full bottle of Drakkar Noir. Evan would have called that one a human from a few yards away, upwind. "Unless that was a wolf with no sense of smell." He waved a hand in front of his nose in illustration and mouthed quietly an explanation to their new friend. "Cologne, bathed in it."
He glanced at the glasses that Kiyoshi opened and then started on another box. Pulling the first one out, Evan brought if over to the other two men. "Look!" He flipped a little switch in the bottom of the glass and it glowed a soft steady blue. It fit with the futuristic theme of the place. Thankfully these were toned down from the ones that blinked on and off. The idea was it to be unique, not cause an epileptic fit. "I found some for the gaming area that look like bio hazard barrels. I've never figured out the relation to gaming and toxicity." Evan frowned thoughtfully. "Perhaps it has to do with those truly hideous energy drinks many of the hard core players seem to live on... Did you order them, Navid?"
Switching the cup off, he began to empty his box of glasses onto the counter. Kiyoshi explained that he had not been in Nachton long and had not seen the sights. "Well if you ever want a tour guide, I've been here a while." Evan smiled. "That goes for you too, Guillaume. Should you want to be social or something." He whispered to Kiyoshi, loud enough for his partner to hear. "I secretly suspect he likes to dance; there might even be a raging party animal in there somewhere locked away, trying to get out."
"So that guy we relocated last month was definitely not a werewolf. Is that what you're saying?" He knew Guillaume would know exactly which man he meant; the guy seemed to have been attacked by a full bottle of Drakkar Noir. Evan would have called that one a human from a few yards away, upwind. "Unless that was a wolf with no sense of smell." He waved a hand in front of his nose in illustration and mouthed quietly an explanation to their new friend. "Cologne, bathed in it."
He glanced at the glasses that Kiyoshi opened and then started on another box. Pulling the first one out, Evan brought if over to the other two men. "Look!" He flipped a little switch in the bottom of the glass and it glowed a soft steady blue. It fit with the futuristic theme of the place. Thankfully these were toned down from the ones that blinked on and off. The idea was it to be unique, not cause an epileptic fit. "I found some for the gaming area that look like bio hazard barrels. I've never figured out the relation to gaming and toxicity." Evan frowned thoughtfully. "Perhaps it has to do with those truly hideous energy drinks many of the hard core players seem to live on... Did you order them, Navid?"
Switching the cup off, he began to empty his box of glasses onto the counter. Kiyoshi explained that he had not been in Nachton long and had not seen the sights. "Well if you ever want a tour guide, I've been here a while." Evan smiled. "That goes for you too, Guillaume. Should you want to be social or something." He whispered to Kiyoshi, loud enough for his partner to hear. "I secretly suspect he likes to dance; there might even be a raging party animal in there somewhere locked away, trying to get out."
Guillaume
13 years ago
"I thought he was one of yours."
Navid said simply. Some times he simply didn't ask questions. If a person was having trouble enough that they needed help and couldn't turn to their pack or their clan it was probably best he not know too much about them either.
He might be shy, or at least seem shy, but Kiyo was apparently well connected to have heard of the opening and moved on it very quickly. If this wasn't a fluke or just a case of being in the right place at the right time it was a skill Navid could respect, even envy and something he wouldn't mind their bartender had.
"You move quickly then. But it has paid off, you beat any one else to the job. I hope you settle in well though. I've not spent much time on the grounds myself. I should fix that."
He was avoiding the grounds actually. He didn't feel welcome. Of course, that was his own damned fault he never should have let his temper get the better of him when confronting his cousin. And now to complicate matters he didn't know where he would stand with the Alpha given his reaction to Thérèse. Silently Navid resolved to go back to the grounds soon, he would very probably be welcome at the fire if nothing else.
Evan and his toys pulled Navid out of his thoughts. The blue looked good, he had to admit that. Evan might be a mulo but he did have a sense of style. His own decorative input was minimal this was not his area of expertise.
"The bio hazard or the energy drinks?"
He knew full well the question was about the energy drinks but he had no qualms playing, just a little.
"Yes I did. Cases of them, Red Bull, Rock Star, Monster and things I don't care to think about. It is a wonder the humans who drink them don't drop dead on the spot."
And there he went being friendly again. Navid smiled quietly to himself. If anyone were to just meet them, on first glance biased solely on stereotypes of the quiet withdrawn brooding vampire, he suspected that the impartial observer would peg him as the vampire and Evan as the wolf.
"I have found the library, the airport and the art museum I think I am doing quite well. But as always, thank you for the offer."
His sigh was long suffering, but one of comfortable familiarity. This type of cheerful banter was just that and as much as he might growl and grumble about it, Navid wasn't bothered at all.
"I keep telling you. I have one animal locked inside me and it doesn't dance."
This time, however, he was quiet careful about his tone and even managed to smile at Evan, making it clear he was teasing and that this was a long standing oft played game.
Navid said simply. Some times he simply didn't ask questions. If a person was having trouble enough that they needed help and couldn't turn to their pack or their clan it was probably best he not know too much about them either.
He might be shy, or at least seem shy, but Kiyo was apparently well connected to have heard of the opening and moved on it very quickly. If this wasn't a fluke or just a case of being in the right place at the right time it was a skill Navid could respect, even envy and something he wouldn't mind their bartender had.
"You move quickly then. But it has paid off, you beat any one else to the job. I hope you settle in well though. I've not spent much time on the grounds myself. I should fix that."
He was avoiding the grounds actually. He didn't feel welcome. Of course, that was his own damned fault he never should have let his temper get the better of him when confronting his cousin. And now to complicate matters he didn't know where he would stand with the Alpha given his reaction to Thérèse. Silently Navid resolved to go back to the grounds soon, he would very probably be welcome at the fire if nothing else.
Evan and his toys pulled Navid out of his thoughts. The blue looked good, he had to admit that. Evan might be a mulo but he did have a sense of style. His own decorative input was minimal this was not his area of expertise.
"The bio hazard or the energy drinks?"
He knew full well the question was about the energy drinks but he had no qualms playing, just a little.
"Yes I did. Cases of them, Red Bull, Rock Star, Monster and things I don't care to think about. It is a wonder the humans who drink them don't drop dead on the spot."
And there he went being friendly again. Navid smiled quietly to himself. If anyone were to just meet them, on first glance biased solely on stereotypes of the quiet withdrawn brooding vampire, he suspected that the impartial observer would peg him as the vampire and Evan as the wolf.
"I have found the library, the airport and the art museum I think I am doing quite well. But as always, thank you for the offer."
His sigh was long suffering, but one of comfortable familiarity. This type of cheerful banter was just that and as much as he might growl and grumble about it, Navid wasn't bothered at all.
"I keep telling you. I have one animal locked inside me and it doesn't dance."
This time, however, he was quiet careful about his tone and even managed to smile at Evan, making it clear he was teasing and that this was a long standing oft played game.
Kiyoshi Salinas
13 years ago
Kiyoshi didn't quite understand the conversation about relocating someone, so he kept his mouth shut and simply listened. Apparently Evan and Guillaume did more than just run a bar together. His eyes went from one man to the other as he tried to catch on but there was too much missing for him to do so with that one brief exchange.
When Guillaume made mention that Kiyoshi moved fast he blushed a fiery red. "I was looking for work," he said, stumbling over the words. He didn't like to speak about his private life, but then, this issue was becoming less and less private in the small world that encompassed flairtenders. Kiyoshi Salinas, brilliant flairtender, but don't hire him - his attendance sucks and he's unreliable. For Kiyo, who was generally a loyal employee and a hard worker, that unfortunate label was shameful.
"It's pretty hard to hold down a job in this line of work," he finally mumbled. "I kept getting nailed for missing work several nights a month. Word gets around and someone told me there might be a job for me here. I had to move fast."
Kiyo shrugged helplessly. There was no sense in trying to sugar coat it. He'd come because he desperately needed work, not because he knew Evan or Guillaume or for any other reason than he had been told that the owners of this bar might be more understanding than the average casino or bar owner. Now that he was here, though, he was getting a little bit more comfortable with the idea of working here. He actually liked Evan a great deal and Guillaume seemed to, maybe, be warming up.
It was easy to stay quiet as the two men conversed. Kiyo did brighten at the flashy glasses Evan produced. He pulled one out, himself, and tossed it in his hand experimentally. The weight was a little different than what he was used to but there was a lot of appeal in the shape and the lights. Pulling out two more of the tumblers he switched them on and tossed them from hand to hand, juggling them carefully. When he had the feel of the balance he added a lot of spin, making the lights sparkle as they crossed each other. He nodded to himself as he stopped the motions and set the glasses back down. "They're nice," he said. "They're going to look good when they're full." There were a variety of drinks he could make that had mixes of colors that would be enhanced by the glasses.
They moved on to the topic of energy drinks, still emptying boxes of various glassware, and once again Kiyo simply listened, getting a feel for the way Guillaume and Evan related to each other. He was curious as to how they knew each other, but he didn't ask. It wasn't any of his business.
When Evan offered to serve as tour guide Kiyoshi looked up, surprised. He hadn't expected that. He thought a few moments, trying to determine if Evan was just making the offer to be polite or if he really meant it. "That... might be good," he finally said. He got lost fairly easily. Even if Evan had only meant it to be kind, Kiyoshi would still appreciate being shown some of the relevant locations in Nachton. Not that he wouldn't still get lost anyway, but he did do a little better when someone pointed out the way for him.
He was beginning to understand the way Guillaume and Evan worked... maybe what he had thought was Guillaume being irritable was actually Guillaume being humorous. Evan was clearly the more sociable of the two, with Guillaume as a straight man of sorts. Kiyoshi briefly wondered if the two were a couple. But that would be difficult. A vampire, with a werewolf? Such things couldn't possibly happen often. And even if they did, what vampire would want a lover who would just die in a few years?
Speculation was pointless... and also not his business. Kiyoshi simply smiled at Evan and shrugged at the suggestion that Guillaume was a party animal. He didn't want to aggravate Guillaume when it seemed like they might possibly be starting to get along.
When Guillaume made mention that Kiyoshi moved fast he blushed a fiery red. "I was looking for work," he said, stumbling over the words. He didn't like to speak about his private life, but then, this issue was becoming less and less private in the small world that encompassed flairtenders. Kiyoshi Salinas, brilliant flairtender, but don't hire him - his attendance sucks and he's unreliable. For Kiyo, who was generally a loyal employee and a hard worker, that unfortunate label was shameful.
"It's pretty hard to hold down a job in this line of work," he finally mumbled. "I kept getting nailed for missing work several nights a month. Word gets around and someone told me there might be a job for me here. I had to move fast."
Kiyo shrugged helplessly. There was no sense in trying to sugar coat it. He'd come because he desperately needed work, not because he knew Evan or Guillaume or for any other reason than he had been told that the owners of this bar might be more understanding than the average casino or bar owner. Now that he was here, though, he was getting a little bit more comfortable with the idea of working here. He actually liked Evan a great deal and Guillaume seemed to, maybe, be warming up.
It was easy to stay quiet as the two men conversed. Kiyo did brighten at the flashy glasses Evan produced. He pulled one out, himself, and tossed it in his hand experimentally. The weight was a little different than what he was used to but there was a lot of appeal in the shape and the lights. Pulling out two more of the tumblers he switched them on and tossed them from hand to hand, juggling them carefully. When he had the feel of the balance he added a lot of spin, making the lights sparkle as they crossed each other. He nodded to himself as he stopped the motions and set the glasses back down. "They're nice," he said. "They're going to look good when they're full." There were a variety of drinks he could make that had mixes of colors that would be enhanced by the glasses.
They moved on to the topic of energy drinks, still emptying boxes of various glassware, and once again Kiyo simply listened, getting a feel for the way Guillaume and Evan related to each other. He was curious as to how they knew each other, but he didn't ask. It wasn't any of his business.
When Evan offered to serve as tour guide Kiyoshi looked up, surprised. He hadn't expected that. He thought a few moments, trying to determine if Evan was just making the offer to be polite or if he really meant it. "That... might be good," he finally said. He got lost fairly easily. Even if Evan had only meant it to be kind, Kiyoshi would still appreciate being shown some of the relevant locations in Nachton. Not that he wouldn't still get lost anyway, but he did do a little better when someone pointed out the way for him.
He was beginning to understand the way Guillaume and Evan worked... maybe what he had thought was Guillaume being irritable was actually Guillaume being humorous. Evan was clearly the more sociable of the two, with Guillaume as a straight man of sorts. Kiyoshi briefly wondered if the two were a couple. But that would be difficult. A vampire, with a werewolf? Such things couldn't possibly happen often. And even if they did, what vampire would want a lover who would just die in a few years?
Speculation was pointless... and also not his business. Kiyoshi simply smiled at Evan and shrugged at the suggestion that Guillaume was a party animal. He didn't want to aggravate Guillaume when it seemed like they might possibly be starting to get along.
Evan Talkingwater
13 years ago
Evan laughed and shook his head at Guillaume; no, the olfactory impaired individual was not a vampire. At least he certainly hoped not.
He set out more glasses while Kiyoshi and Guillaume talked about living arrangements and the network of information within their pack. Stopping when their new bartender talked about how difficult it had been to keep a job doing the thing he loved because of his monthly condition, it must have been difficult.
Evan reached over and placed a hand on Kiyoshi's shoulder. "You won't ever have to worry about it here." The way he saw it understanding the shifter's needs was not a hardship and it earned them a very loyal and hopefully very happy employee in exchange...and probably the best flairtender on several continents.
Kiyoshi pulled out one of the glasses and tested the weight. He hadn't thought about that being different from what the bartender had been accustomed to but it did make sense. It didn't seem to be a problem for long; Evan stopped his own unpacking to watch Kiyoshi flip and spin the lighted tumblers in the air. The flickering added an extra level of drama to the already exceptional flair. "Wow, I hadn't considered how nice they would look in the air. That's excellent!" Evan grinned and determined that the glasses were a success. He agreed with Kiyo that they would look nice when filled with liquid. Evan wanted the whole place to look like set of some sci fi movie, minus the aliens...or with them should they wish to come out and join the social scene.
"Both" He answered to Guillaume about the energy drinks and the glasses. "Added brain cells are made up for by lack of taste buds? The body has to even out the genius in some way. I am not sure how they survive on the stuff either. I suppose they are more resilient than we give them credit for."
Smiling over at Kiyoshi, he nodded. "You just tell me a night you're free and what you would like to see." It appeared Guillaume had found several places all of which made perfect sense, none of which were necessarily very social. "You have managed to find three places where you can be around people while totally ignoring them. Not bad."
He laughed at Guilldaume's retort about his inner animal. It was a good thing his friend was very patient. Evan gave him a sad eyed expression and asked. "Not even the snoopy dance?"
He set out more glasses while Kiyoshi and Guillaume talked about living arrangements and the network of information within their pack. Stopping when their new bartender talked about how difficult it had been to keep a job doing the thing he loved because of his monthly condition, it must have been difficult.
Evan reached over and placed a hand on Kiyoshi's shoulder. "You won't ever have to worry about it here." The way he saw it understanding the shifter's needs was not a hardship and it earned them a very loyal and hopefully very happy employee in exchange...and probably the best flairtender on several continents.
Kiyoshi pulled out one of the glasses and tested the weight. He hadn't thought about that being different from what the bartender had been accustomed to but it did make sense. It didn't seem to be a problem for long; Evan stopped his own unpacking to watch Kiyoshi flip and spin the lighted tumblers in the air. The flickering added an extra level of drama to the already exceptional flair. "Wow, I hadn't considered how nice they would look in the air. That's excellent!" Evan grinned and determined that the glasses were a success. He agreed with Kiyo that they would look nice when filled with liquid. Evan wanted the whole place to look like set of some sci fi movie, minus the aliens...or with them should they wish to come out and join the social scene.
"Both" He answered to Guillaume about the energy drinks and the glasses. "Added brain cells are made up for by lack of taste buds? The body has to even out the genius in some way. I am not sure how they survive on the stuff either. I suppose they are more resilient than we give them credit for."
Smiling over at Kiyoshi, he nodded. "You just tell me a night you're free and what you would like to see." It appeared Guillaume had found several places all of which made perfect sense, none of which were necessarily very social. "You have managed to find three places where you can be around people while totally ignoring them. Not bad."
He laughed at Guilldaume's retort about his inner animal. It was a good thing his friend was very patient. Evan gave him a sad eyed expression and asked. "Not even the snoopy dance?"
Guillaume
13 years ago
Guillaume grinned, a slightly wry smile.
"There is nothing to be embarrassed about we all need work now and then and our... particular requirements don't always suite the corporate grind, especially if you work nights."
He was trying to be reassuring for he had run into the issue once or twice himself, that was part of the reason his own work history was spotty and tended favor work for the Rasa or even with Evan. Navid was equally certain that if he and Evan had heard the rumors about Kiyo and his attendance, they would have asked neither one of them was apt to over look the obvious.
Watching Kiyo play with the glasses was rather rewarding. It was good to see someone besides Evan was going to enjoy the toys. Navid, however, wondered how many of them would wind up walking out the door. Not that he believed the worst in humanity or anything.
He was happy enough to see Kiyo take Evan up on his tour idea. He might, possibly, tag along not that he would express that now. No, he would just happen to be in the right place in the right time to join them.
He smiled at his business partner's observation, it had a bit of a feral edge to it.
"My social skills are improving. You'd like the Arch though, quite diverse."
If Kiyo hadn't been there, Guillaume's reaction might have been a bit less restrained. Instead he dead panned back.
"As me again the night of the full moon."
"There is nothing to be embarrassed about we all need work now and then and our... particular requirements don't always suite the corporate grind, especially if you work nights."
He was trying to be reassuring for he had run into the issue once or twice himself, that was part of the reason his own work history was spotty and tended favor work for the Rasa or even with Evan. Navid was equally certain that if he and Evan had heard the rumors about Kiyo and his attendance, they would have asked neither one of them was apt to over look the obvious.
Watching Kiyo play with the glasses was rather rewarding. It was good to see someone besides Evan was going to enjoy the toys. Navid, however, wondered how many of them would wind up walking out the door. Not that he believed the worst in humanity or anything.
He was happy enough to see Kiyo take Evan up on his tour idea. He might, possibly, tag along not that he would express that now. No, he would just happen to be in the right place in the right time to join them.
He smiled at his business partner's observation, it had a bit of a feral edge to it.
"My social skills are improving. You'd like the Arch though, quite diverse."
If Kiyo hadn't been there, Guillaume's reaction might have been a bit less restrained. Instead he dead panned back.
"As me again the night of the full moon."
Kiyoshi Salinas
13 years ago
The unexpected understanding and sympathy from both Guillaume and Evan made Kiyoshi stop what he was doing and duck his head, trying to hide the effect it had on him. "Thanks," he said softly, to both of his new employers. "It means a lot."
That was all he said on the topic. If they understood, then they already knew how much it meant. Kiyoshi did care about his reputation. He didn't want to be known as unreliable and a bad hire. He didn't have a tremendous number of skills that made him employable; bartending was by far his best one and if that got screwed up he would have no idea what to do.
Kiyoshi looked up at Evan when he told him to mention a night. He raised his eyebrows, his expression taking on one of mild humor. "I work for you now," he said with a little grin. "You tell me what night I have free."
He'd only just arrived in Nachton. It wasn't like he had a mile-long list of social obligations, even if he were the type. Kiyoshi's schedule had one thing on it now, and that was: work. He didn't really need days off. It would be a difficult business, starting the bar. He should probably be there every night he could.
Kiyo almost laughed at Evan's observation about Guillaume. He remained silent to avoid similar criticism, but inwardly he reflected that he would have chosen similar places to explore, himself. Evan, however, was clearly the most social of the three of them. Kiyoshi wondered what places the vampire would choose to explore first.
The idea of Guillaume doing the snoopy dance made Kiyo chuckle softly again. He was growing used to the back and forth half-argument, sarcasm-based banter between the bar's co-owners. He was revising his speculation about them; the more they talked, the more their chatter reminded him of a pair of friends - not necessarily a pair of lovers. He sighed at himself. Once again, idle speculation wasn't very becoming. He needed to not do it at all.
That was all he said on the topic. If they understood, then they already knew how much it meant. Kiyoshi did care about his reputation. He didn't want to be known as unreliable and a bad hire. He didn't have a tremendous number of skills that made him employable; bartending was by far his best one and if that got screwed up he would have no idea what to do.
Kiyoshi looked up at Evan when he told him to mention a night. He raised his eyebrows, his expression taking on one of mild humor. "I work for you now," he said with a little grin. "You tell me what night I have free."
He'd only just arrived in Nachton. It wasn't like he had a mile-long list of social obligations, even if he were the type. Kiyoshi's schedule had one thing on it now, and that was: work. He didn't really need days off. It would be a difficult business, starting the bar. He should probably be there every night he could.
Kiyo almost laughed at Evan's observation about Guillaume. He remained silent to avoid similar criticism, but inwardly he reflected that he would have chosen similar places to explore, himself. Evan, however, was clearly the most social of the three of them. Kiyoshi wondered what places the vampire would choose to explore first.
The idea of Guillaume doing the snoopy dance made Kiyo chuckle softly again. He was growing used to the back and forth half-argument, sarcasm-based banter between the bar's co-owners. He was revising his speculation about them; the more they talked, the more their chatter reminded him of a pair of friends - not necessarily a pair of lovers. He sighed at himself. Once again, idle speculation wasn't very becoming. He needed to not do it at all.
Evan Talkingwater
13 years ago
Guillaume was also supportive and understanding; he even said as much with patience and sympathy. Evan smiled over at his friend, giving him that look that said he knew that the man wasn't the cold hard ass that he occasionally pretended to be.
Evan removed his empty box and nodded about the Arch. "Yes, its a nice place. Not my thing but I've been inside once or twice. The artwork is very pretty. I sometimes go when they have an exhibit that interests me." He found the quiet murmur of hushed voices and the loud echo of footsteps on marble floors in the large pristine galleries disturbing. The large Nachton Library was much the same. Evan favored one of the smaller more cozy libraries where the books were crammed upon every surface. It was still quiet but cozy; the place didn't seem hollow and devoid of spirit. He did like the airport though; it was loud and busy, bustling with hurried people going in every direction. There was always something amusing to watch.
He smiled at Kiyoshi who made a very valid point. Looking around the place, Evan made a mental list of all the things they had yet to do. "Well, if you would like to help us continue to set things up here over the next few nights then we should have some free time once that is done before the place opens. Sound okay to you?"
Glancing sideways at Guillaume, he grinned. "Definitely. I wouldn't miss a chance to see that." Evan decided not to push his luck by asking if he could take pictures.
Evan removed his empty box and nodded about the Arch. "Yes, its a nice place. Not my thing but I've been inside once or twice. The artwork is very pretty. I sometimes go when they have an exhibit that interests me." He found the quiet murmur of hushed voices and the loud echo of footsteps on marble floors in the large pristine galleries disturbing. The large Nachton Library was much the same. Evan favored one of the smaller more cozy libraries where the books were crammed upon every surface. It was still quiet but cozy; the place didn't seem hollow and devoid of spirit. He did like the airport though; it was loud and busy, bustling with hurried people going in every direction. There was always something amusing to watch.
He smiled at Kiyoshi who made a very valid point. Looking around the place, Evan made a mental list of all the things they had yet to do. "Well, if you would like to help us continue to set things up here over the next few nights then we should have some free time once that is done before the place opens. Sound okay to you?"
Glancing sideways at Guillaume, he grinned. "Definitely. I wouldn't miss a chance to see that." Evan decided not to push his luck by asking if he could take pictures.
Guillaume
13 years ago
He laughed, genuinely amused not at all sarcastic, when Kiyo pointed out that he worked for them.
"That is a very valid point and for all his charming ways Evan is quite the slave driver. In fact he scarcely leaves the building himself."
Good everyone was getting along. They might have a happy little family here yet. That would be good. He did miss being around his pack. Again, his own fault, but it did leave an empty feeling that was part of the reason he'd taken up residence here. A mulo was an odd substitution for a pack but it worked.
"Taking him around to visit the competition does not count as playing tour guide."
Navid warned before shaking his head. He didn't know how serious Evan was about that dance. It took a brave man to want anything to do with a werewolf during the full moon.
"What do I get in exchange? Should I undertake this 'dance' of yours?"
He raised an eyebrow quietly, lightly, challenging.
"That is a very valid point and for all his charming ways Evan is quite the slave driver. In fact he scarcely leaves the building himself."
Good everyone was getting along. They might have a happy little family here yet. That would be good. He did miss being around his pack. Again, his own fault, but it did leave an empty feeling that was part of the reason he'd taken up residence here. A mulo was an odd substitution for a pack but it worked.
"Taking him around to visit the competition does not count as playing tour guide."
Navid warned before shaking his head. He didn't know how serious Evan was about that dance. It took a brave man to want anything to do with a werewolf during the full moon.
"What do I get in exchange? Should I undertake this 'dance' of yours?"
He raised an eyebrow quietly, lightly, challenging.
Kiyoshi Salinas
13 years ago
Kiyoshi nodded at Evan and said, "Of course. It sounds great." Turning to regard Guillaume, he looked back and forth between the two. "Really? I don't need a day off. We can work. That's fine." He raised his eyebrows at Evan expectantly. It wasn't that he was trying to get out of socializing, or that he wanted to impress his new employers. He really did want to make this bar a success and that meant being every bit as committed as Evan and Guillaume were. He didn't mind working every night if that was what it took.
He caught Guillaume's next words and gave a sudden 'ah' of comprehension. He supposed it would be important to take a look at the places they would be competing for business with.
"Speaking of competition," he interjected softly, "I need to know... if you want me to continue to participate in flairtending competitions."
Such tournaments were generally sponsored, not always by the participant's employers, but usually. Kiyoshi wasn't opposed to continuing on the circuit; he normally split his winnings with his sponsors and he appreciated the extra cash. But if Evan and Guillaume didn't want to do that he could retire and remain at Terminus permanently.
Aside from that one question he just listened in wonder to the fact that they could talk so easily about running around under the full moon. Was Evan so confident in his own abilities that he didn't fear any of their kind? Kiyoshi had lived with it for thirty years now and he still hated every minute of madness, trapped inside his own head running around wildly praying for it to end. He moved away slightly and collapsed and stacked more boxes. It was not a conversation to which he could possibly have anything to contribute.
He caught Guillaume's next words and gave a sudden 'ah' of comprehension. He supposed it would be important to take a look at the places they would be competing for business with.
"Speaking of competition," he interjected softly, "I need to know... if you want me to continue to participate in flairtending competitions."
Such tournaments were generally sponsored, not always by the participant's employers, but usually. Kiyoshi wasn't opposed to continuing on the circuit; he normally split his winnings with his sponsors and he appreciated the extra cash. But if Evan and Guillaume didn't want to do that he could retire and remain at Terminus permanently.
Aside from that one question he just listened in wonder to the fact that they could talk so easily about running around under the full moon. Was Evan so confident in his own abilities that he didn't fear any of their kind? Kiyoshi had lived with it for thirty years now and he still hated every minute of madness, trapped inside his own head running around wildly praying for it to end. He moved away slightly and collapsed and stacked more boxes. It was not a conversation to which he could possibly have anything to contribute.