She thought the new arrival, Dawn, looked slightly uncomfortable as she sat down. But perhaps that was because that was how Pak felt. She simply sat nursing her dark beer trying to put things together, while being glad she had missed the mayor’s ball. She didn’t approve of explosions or being caught in them.
Simon was certainly presenting a very different picture from the first time she’d met him. As Pak remembered he’d barley spoken two words, or course there had been a presence that rather had taken over the remaindered of the evening. She was slightly surprised at his seeming familiarity with Dani and his casual reference to Alfarinn.
Yuu seemed extremely sharp, maybe even predatory but as the conversation revealed her to be part of the DA’s office that seemed to explain that. Pak had found herself agreeing with Yuu’s observations of Simon. She never would have been able to piece something like that together from a person’s appearance. People, or vampires as the case may be, simply had too many variables.
It was Dani who indirectly kept her from simply leaving. Even though this had been a chance meeting and was nothing more than random acquaintances chatting, she wouldn’t have felt right leaving without a solid reason. Not with a clan mate here. Then again, perhaps she was just a masochist. Yes, actually that seemed much more likely.
Gimpy she continued to studiously ignore. She was, however, in agreement with his Elizabethan. She’d like to see Yuu repeat her deductions.
Through out that whole line of thought she said nothing. In any group someone had to be the quiet one, why shouldn’t it be her?
Hanging at Shades' (Open)
Ysabel sat at a table in the corner of the club, the same one she'd sat at a few nights ago when she'd first come here. This would be the second time this week she would get to see Ambrose play. He didn't much like live gigs, by his own admission, but he had some friends in the business (everyone has friends in the business!). They were a band called the Moochers, and Ambrose had told her he often filled in for them if their guitarist wasn't able to play. That individual been sick all week, so Ambrose was covering.
Although still dubious about rock in general, Ysabel had definitely taken to jazz and blues. Moreso the first time she had come here. The club was named Shades', after its owner. When they'd entered a few days back, Ysabel had at first been put out by the slightly smoky air but the darkness of the club, brightened here and there by a few dim blue lights, appealed to her sensitive eyes. Tables were set fairly close together without being crowded, around a moderately sized dance floor. Against the far wall, just behind the dance floor, was a slightly raised stage. On the left as you entered was the bar, and behind that a set of doors Ysabel assumed led to a kitchen, for the club provided snack-like foods... nothing substantial really, but appetizers and things to nibble on while listening to your favorite local band.
Shades himself might have intimidated Ysabel if she hadn't had so much experience in dealing with people. Even as a man in his apparent 60's, Shades was an imposing figure. He was at least 6'5", muscular in spite of his age, and he moved with a spring and an energy that belied his tightly-curled, greying hair. He was of African-American descent but anyone would have been hard-pressed to know exactly where he came from. His voice held no discernable accent. He was never seen without his trademark sunglasses, and it was no secret among the vampire community that Shades was one of them - although no one seemed to know when he'd been turned or who had turned him. The club's name was not just a reference to its owner, but a small tribute to their race as well.
Shades, Ambrose had told her, almost never forgot a face or a name. Ysabel found that to be true. When she'd entered the club for the second time, without Ambrose who'd gone around the back to meet the Moochers there, Shades had greeted her himself and brought her to the same table she'd been at before. He treated her like a good friend and Ysabel couldn't help but imagine that if she'd been in a bad mood when she'd walked in, Shades' attitude would have dispelled it immediately.
The quiet popularity of the club was a tribute to its owner. Ysabel liked it here. She had heard Shades play last time she was here, and although she couldn't have said before that she was particularly fond of the saxophone, she was willing to rethink her position on the subject. She was hoping to hear him play again tonight, perhaps between sets.
She sat quietly, as she had done before. The waitress seemed nervous; perhaps she was new. Ysabel politely ordered a glass of white wine, doing her best to put the poor girl at ease. She probably had no clue that she was standing in the middle of a vampire-run club, but in truth there couldn't have been any safer place. Shades' rules on the subject were clear: humans on the premises were off-limits, whether working or patronizing. The club may be dimly-lit and smoky, but the discreet bouncers missed nothing, and kept a sharp eye out for any sort of trouble.
((ooc: Ambrose's views with permission.))
Pakpao
17 years ago
Danielle
17 years ago
Dani blinked at Ambrose when he made his offhanded remark regarding jury selection, a little confused for a moment. Did they know each other? Yuu certainly didn’t act as though she were acquainted with the gentleman but his comment indicated at least a little knowledge. Weird.
Then Ysabel threw down the gauntlet and left Dani wondering if Yuu would pick it up. That would be a fun way to get to know all these people! Yuu, however, seemed to be playing it modest. She, meanwhile, was just trying not to snort at Simon’s response. Puuuuleeeze. Like he didn’t know who he was talking to. His intentions remained to be seen but she had little doubt he was thinking business, just like she was. Trouble being that Yuu was her good friend as well as a potential contact; she knew she was having trouble remaining objective about the whole thing while Simon had no reason to have qualms.
In any case her mind was made up; she would talk to Arin and decide what to do next. It was good to be decisive; it kept her from worrying. There was a very positive side to all of this as well; Dani strongly believed that Yuu would not end up in either company’s pocket. Her friend just had too much integrity, however thickly Simon laid on the charm and however many years they went back. She personally believed that if Yuu were armed with more information, she could make fair and impartial choices on her own.
Of course, she sure did seem wrapped up in Simon at the moment…hell, they seemed caught up in each other. She wondered if the Tacharan’s question regarding Arin had been sincere, considering that thread of talk had faded away. Well business was business but she wasn’t about to go making assumptions on Simon himself. Arin’s abilities would pick up something if Simon were playing him false; he probably just had a lot on his mind. She grumbled inwardly at that thought. ‘Yeah, like trying to get in my friend’s pocket. Also possibly her pants. Didn’t he say something about a date?’
To get out of that frame of mind, she scanned the room, taking in the music and atmosphere for a moment. This really was quite a nice place, and really, in spite of worries about the competition she couldn’t have asked for better company. Though Pak was being quiet. Poor gal, probably just wanted her beer in peace and here she’d been flooded in short order. Dani loved it when that happened but that certainly wasn’t for everyone. Some people came to crowded places like this to get lost, not found…she wasn’t sure which was the case for Pak.
And then she could have laughed…why, she was being just as quiet! Wool gathering, Evenhet’s bane! Still, she felt that ought to be remedied. She turned to Simon, grinning.
“Oh come on, give her a little credit where credit is due.” She gave him a little wink and turned to Yuu. “You got him down pretty well.” She added a little smirk, though she refrained from saying any more outright. Just didn’t want Yuu to feel at a disadvantage just because Simon didn’t want to own up and preferred to mutter about clothes not making the man. Clearly there was more to it than that; she’d been joking when she said otherwise.
“-I- think Ysabel gave an excellent suggestion. But who to pick on next?” Raising her eyebrows at the table in general, she turned to the latest addition. “I’m sorry dear, I didn’t catch your name?”
Then Ysabel threw down the gauntlet and left Dani wondering if Yuu would pick it up. That would be a fun way to get to know all these people! Yuu, however, seemed to be playing it modest. She, meanwhile, was just trying not to snort at Simon’s response. Puuuuleeeze. Like he didn’t know who he was talking to. His intentions remained to be seen but she had little doubt he was thinking business, just like she was. Trouble being that Yuu was her good friend as well as a potential contact; she knew she was having trouble remaining objective about the whole thing while Simon had no reason to have qualms.
In any case her mind was made up; she would talk to Arin and decide what to do next. It was good to be decisive; it kept her from worrying. There was a very positive side to all of this as well; Dani strongly believed that Yuu would not end up in either company’s pocket. Her friend just had too much integrity, however thickly Simon laid on the charm and however many years they went back. She personally believed that if Yuu were armed with more information, she could make fair and impartial choices on her own.
Of course, she sure did seem wrapped up in Simon at the moment…hell, they seemed caught up in each other. She wondered if the Tacharan’s question regarding Arin had been sincere, considering that thread of talk had faded away. Well business was business but she wasn’t about to go making assumptions on Simon himself. Arin’s abilities would pick up something if Simon were playing him false; he probably just had a lot on his mind. She grumbled inwardly at that thought. ‘Yeah, like trying to get in my friend’s pocket. Also possibly her pants. Didn’t he say something about a date?’
To get out of that frame of mind, she scanned the room, taking in the music and atmosphere for a moment. This really was quite a nice place, and really, in spite of worries about the competition she couldn’t have asked for better company. Though Pak was being quiet. Poor gal, probably just wanted her beer in peace and here she’d been flooded in short order. Dani loved it when that happened but that certainly wasn’t for everyone. Some people came to crowded places like this to get lost, not found…she wasn’t sure which was the case for Pak.
And then she could have laughed…why, she was being just as quiet! Wool gathering, Evenhet’s bane! Still, she felt that ought to be remedied. She turned to Simon, grinning.
“Oh come on, give her a little credit where credit is due.” She gave him a little wink and turned to Yuu. “You got him down pretty well.” She added a little smirk, though she refrained from saying any more outright. Just didn’t want Yuu to feel at a disadvantage just because Simon didn’t want to own up and preferred to mutter about clothes not making the man. Clearly there was more to it than that; she’d been joking when she said otherwise.
“-I- think Ysabel gave an excellent suggestion. But who to pick on next?” Raising her eyebrows at the table in general, she turned to the latest addition. “I’m sorry dear, I didn’t catch your name?”
Dawn Ratana
17 years ago
Smiling demurely at Ambrose, she nodded.
"Quiet evenings out are what I do best. This is perhaps a bit raucous for me, but I am told that the music will be worth enduring the crowd."
Winking at Ambrose, she was pleased that he'd not given up the cover. Yuu's game made her a bit uncomfortable - what would she have said about her? And now Ysabel was egging her on. Though it might be an excellent test of her practice, it could be a notably public failure as well. Well, nothing doing for it anyway. It looked like flirting was more important than showing off, and rightly so.
With Dani's leading remark and trailing question, Dawn stiffened her back slightly. She'd seen someone who had been caught off guard do that frequently, especially folk who sat cross legged and kept their hands in their laps. Relaxing her back again, Dawn smiled languidly and responded
"Oh! I'm sorry, Miss Dani. Miss Ratana, Dawn if you prefer. Everything is just so busy in here I was trying to get caught up on the conversation."
"Quiet evenings out are what I do best. This is perhaps a bit raucous for me, but I am told that the music will be worth enduring the crowd."
Winking at Ambrose, she was pleased that he'd not given up the cover. Yuu's game made her a bit uncomfortable - what would she have said about her? And now Ysabel was egging her on. Though it might be an excellent test of her practice, it could be a notably public failure as well. Well, nothing doing for it anyway. It looked like flirting was more important than showing off, and rightly so.
With Dani's leading remark and trailing question, Dawn stiffened her back slightly. She'd seen someone who had been caught off guard do that frequently, especially folk who sat cross legged and kept their hands in their laps. Relaxing her back again, Dawn smiled languidly and responded
"Oh! I'm sorry, Miss Dani. Miss Ratana, Dawn if you prefer. Everything is just so busy in here I was trying to get caught up on the conversation."
Ambrose
17 years ago
So, Belle was going to encourage the new ADA. He’d love to see her take a stab at Dawn, and see what she came up with. Ambrose wasn’t sure what game the girl was playing, but he’d like to see it put to the test. But it might be a bit obvious if he suggested it so he’d leave Yuu to make up her own mind, maybe he’d get lucky.
“Most of the folks who show up to play here are better than average, defiantly worth the crowd. I’m glad you braved it, the evening wouldn’t be the same with out you.”
He shot Dawn a subtly teasing smile. Really, Ambrose didn’t consider tonight too crowded, you could still walk around and breath. Better yet the more people that showed up the more interesting things got.
Casually draping an arm around Ysabel’s shoulders his gaze drifted around the table, half looking at his company and half looking for his drink.
Watching Yuu and Simon wasn’t as entertaining has he’d like so he was keeping half his attention on Dawn. He wasn’t sure if she’d fool him or not. She’d made one hell of an impression the first time they’d met it was difficult to decide if that was still coloring his judgment.
“Most of the folks who show up to play here are better than average, defiantly worth the crowd. I’m glad you braved it, the evening wouldn’t be the same with out you.”
He shot Dawn a subtly teasing smile. Really, Ambrose didn’t consider tonight too crowded, you could still walk around and breath. Better yet the more people that showed up the more interesting things got.
Casually draping an arm around Ysabel’s shoulders his gaze drifted around the table, half looking at his company and half looking for his drink.
Watching Yuu and Simon wasn’t as entertaining has he’d like so he was keeping half his attention on Dawn. He wasn’t sure if she’d fool him or not. She’d made one hell of an impression the first time they’d met it was difficult to decide if that was still coloring his judgment.
Ysabel
17 years ago
Ysabel sipped at her wine while the conversation flowed around her. Yuu seemed to be slightly embarrassed over her own abilities when Simon made his tactful, yet accurate, statement. Regardless, Ysabel still found the idea somewhat intrguing and hoped Yuu wouldn't be put off from taking a guess at the rest of them. Dani defended Yuu, however, and seemed to know Simon well enough to agree with her friend. The woman said so in such an amiable manner that it would have been impossible for Simon now to disagree without coming off as an ass, Ysabel thought privately, with a smile for Dani.
Waiting to see if Yuu would indeed try it again, Ysabel listened with half an ear to Dawn and Ambrose as well. Ambrose had slipped his arm about her shoulders, and while Ysabel enjoyed that. she was mindful of seeming too affectionate in public. No one seemed to give it a second glance though so she let it be. She did almost slip out from under it, however, when she turned to regard Dawn with a question in her eyes.
"Raucous?" She asked, casting a quick glance around the low-key crowd that filled the club. Even Ysabel didn't think it was raucous, and she had gotten the impression, although she didn't know Dawn well, that her clanmate was even more... energetic... than this crowd on a typical evening. However, she left it at that and simply agreed with Ambrose.
"There's a good deal of talent here from what I've seen; hopefully you won't regret coming."
She made a mental note to find out from Dawn what she preferred to do on a quiet evening. Maybe she knew some places in Nachton Ysabel hadn't found yet to enjoy.
Waiting to see if Yuu would indeed try it again, Ysabel listened with half an ear to Dawn and Ambrose as well. Ambrose had slipped his arm about her shoulders, and while Ysabel enjoyed that. she was mindful of seeming too affectionate in public. No one seemed to give it a second glance though so she let it be. She did almost slip out from under it, however, when she turned to regard Dawn with a question in her eyes.
"Raucous?" She asked, casting a quick glance around the low-key crowd that filled the club. Even Ysabel didn't think it was raucous, and she had gotten the impression, although she didn't know Dawn well, that her clanmate was even more... energetic... than this crowd on a typical evening. However, she left it at that and simply agreed with Ambrose.
"There's a good deal of talent here from what I've seen; hopefully you won't regret coming."
She made a mental note to find out from Dawn what she preferred to do on a quiet evening. Maybe she knew some places in Nachton Ysabel hadn't found yet to enjoy.
Yuu
17 years ago
Yuu shrugged, still very much embarassed but doing a decent job of hiding it behind a simpering smile directed towards Simon.
'Well it's not parlour trick. If I made it look fun, I wouldn't be able to make grown men cry on the stand.' She reached up and demurely checked her hair. 'Maybe later.'
Recrossing her legs, Yuu smiled at Dawn's comment. 'I'm looking forward to hearing the music tonight. Good Jazz places are hard to come by.' She had hoped that would be the last mention of her reading anyone else. Her embarassment was starting to wain, but her eyes crossed over Simon again who was still looking at her. Woof, she thought silently. What was it about Nachton that had an affect on the men she met. Being unnerved not once but twice in the short time she had been in town was disturbing to her. There was something about his face, specifically his mouth. When he spoke, his teeth were barely exposed and his voice was so low that you had to strain to hear it, especially with the soft music playing in the background. Too many years of listening to music entirely too loud with head phones had done something to her hearing - low tones seemed mumbled and generally it irrirated her. But with Simon it was captivating...there was something about his mouth. Yuu decided she'd probably figure it out later.
'Well it's not parlour trick. If I made it look fun, I wouldn't be able to make grown men cry on the stand.' She reached up and demurely checked her hair. 'Maybe later.'
Recrossing her legs, Yuu smiled at Dawn's comment. 'I'm looking forward to hearing the music tonight. Good Jazz places are hard to come by.' She had hoped that would be the last mention of her reading anyone else. Her embarassment was starting to wain, but her eyes crossed over Simon again who was still looking at her. Woof, she thought silently. What was it about Nachton that had an affect on the men she met. Being unnerved not once but twice in the short time she had been in town was disturbing to her. There was something about his face, specifically his mouth. When he spoke, his teeth were barely exposed and his voice was so low that you had to strain to hear it, especially with the soft music playing in the background. Too many years of listening to music entirely too loud with head phones had done something to her hearing - low tones seemed mumbled and generally it irrirated her. But with Simon it was captivating...there was something about his mouth. Yuu decided she'd probably figure it out later.
Danielle
17 years ago
Dani smiled brightly at Dawn’s response, mostly relieved she had caught the young woman’s name. Though she would admit to being tickled at the ‘Miss Dani’, really only children addressed her as such as a matter of course, however, and she sought to amend that.
“Just ‘Dani’ is fine by me; a pleasure to meet you Dawn.”
If Dawn found the crowd overwhelming Dani suspected she was in good company at least. Pak’s clove added a pleasant Christmas-y atmosphere to their tables, quite unlike the harsher smell of regular cigarette smoke, and they had a healthy mix of strangers and friends. She silently declared theirs the best corner of the club as she grinned at Ambrose and Ysabel. Who, she thought absently, made a rather charming couple.
“Well it was certainly worth the trip so far.” Leaning forward, she added just a touch of teasing to her tone as she addressed Ambrose, not-so-casually bringing up the fact that both he and Ysabel were including himself in their statements about the talent at this club. “And when do we get to hear you play?”
She wasn’t prodding, truly, no more than she had been when she followed up on Ysabel’s suggestion to Yuu. Well, perhaps she was a little bit but they were never going to get to know each other if they didn’t talk and most people, with a little nudge, liked talking about themselves, however much they might protest the suggestion. Case in point – Yuu might not have been interested in Ysabel’s game, but she was sure to let the table know she made grown men cry.
“Just ‘Dani’ is fine by me; a pleasure to meet you Dawn.”
If Dawn found the crowd overwhelming Dani suspected she was in good company at least. Pak’s clove added a pleasant Christmas-y atmosphere to their tables, quite unlike the harsher smell of regular cigarette smoke, and they had a healthy mix of strangers and friends. She silently declared theirs the best corner of the club as she grinned at Ambrose and Ysabel. Who, she thought absently, made a rather charming couple.
“Well it was certainly worth the trip so far.” Leaning forward, she added just a touch of teasing to her tone as she addressed Ambrose, not-so-casually bringing up the fact that both he and Ysabel were including himself in their statements about the talent at this club. “And when do we get to hear you play?”
She wasn’t prodding, truly, no more than she had been when she followed up on Ysabel’s suggestion to Yuu. Well, perhaps she was a little bit but they were never going to get to know each other if they didn’t talk and most people, with a little nudge, liked talking about themselves, however much they might protest the suggestion. Case in point – Yuu might not have been interested in Ysabel’s game, but she was sure to let the table know she made grown men cry.
Simon Huntington
17 years ago
She was staring at his mouth. They always did. Yuu was looking at his lip and how it tucked over his fangs. His weren't large, but you could see the impression of something under his lip. This was part of the reason Simon did not smile often - that and because he could care less about most things.
Simon took another long pull at his beer and watched the rest of the table companions with hooded eyes. Still, his eyes came back to Yuu and Dani. Inwardly he sighed - her inquisitiveness was dangerous and he feared he'd have to look into her investigation and if things progressed the way he figured they would... Simon looked at Dani for a moment. No, Dani would not understand, not when it involved someone she was obviously close to.
He blinked. Simon realized just then that he was considering the feelings of someone else over a possible mark. Curious. Being indifferent to most things had become second nature a long time ago yet now he was actually pausing. Maybe it was time for a change, but he feared even the smallest of changes would offset a balance that had worked for so many years. Finishing his beer he set the glass down and stood. Carol was near, he could feel her approaching the bar.
'Everyone will have to excuse me, my companion tonight will be here any moment.' He nodded towards Dani, allowing a smile to creep into the corner of his mouth. 'Miss Yuu, it was a pleasure. I'm sure we'll meet again, same to you Ysabel. I look forward to seeing you around the old homestead with your sister.' Again he nodded and gave everyone a small bow.
'Good night.'
((OOC - Simon out, pending responses))
Simon took another long pull at his beer and watched the rest of the table companions with hooded eyes. Still, his eyes came back to Yuu and Dani. Inwardly he sighed - her inquisitiveness was dangerous and he feared he'd have to look into her investigation and if things progressed the way he figured they would... Simon looked at Dani for a moment. No, Dani would not understand, not when it involved someone she was obviously close to.
He blinked. Simon realized just then that he was considering the feelings of someone else over a possible mark. Curious. Being indifferent to most things had become second nature a long time ago yet now he was actually pausing. Maybe it was time for a change, but he feared even the smallest of changes would offset a balance that had worked for so many years. Finishing his beer he set the glass down and stood. Carol was near, he could feel her approaching the bar.
'Everyone will have to excuse me, my companion tonight will be here any moment.' He nodded towards Dani, allowing a smile to creep into the corner of his mouth. 'Miss Yuu, it was a pleasure. I'm sure we'll meet again, same to you Ysabel. I look forward to seeing you around the old homestead with your sister.' Again he nodded and gave everyone a small bow.
'Good night.'
((OOC - Simon out, pending responses))
Ambrose
17 years ago
“Jazz is a dying art.”
He agreed with Yuu. Uncharacteristically he didn’t press her for more detail on her jury selection skills. Someday that might be a fun fight to pick but mindful of the other company, Belle particularly, he let it slide for this evening.
Nodding to Simon as he left Ambrose smiled wryly at Dani’s question. It seemed that Yuu wouldn’t be the only one put on the spot tonight.
“Katrina will probably be out here in about ten wondering why the hell I’m not backstage. Of course, the Moochers are more blues than jazz but they’ve got class. Not my regular gig but they asked me to sit in tonight.”
Speak of the devil. Ambrose could see the tall blond that was Katrina circulating the floor, but she seemed more headed to the bar than him, so he had time yet.
Noticing the Dragon Lady had yet to say more than two words Ambrose set out to needle her slightly and deliberately made eye contact with her.
“And how do you feel about the blues?”
He agreed with Yuu. Uncharacteristically he didn’t press her for more detail on her jury selection skills. Someday that might be a fun fight to pick but mindful of the other company, Belle particularly, he let it slide for this evening.
Nodding to Simon as he left Ambrose smiled wryly at Dani’s question. It seemed that Yuu wouldn’t be the only one put on the spot tonight.
“Katrina will probably be out here in about ten wondering why the hell I’m not backstage. Of course, the Moochers are more blues than jazz but they’ve got class. Not my regular gig but they asked me to sit in tonight.”
Speak of the devil. Ambrose could see the tall blond that was Katrina circulating the floor, but she seemed more headed to the bar than him, so he had time yet.
Noticing the Dragon Lady had yet to say more than two words Ambrose set out to needle her slightly and deliberately made eye contact with her.
“And how do you feel about the blues?”
Pakpao
17 years ago
Listening more to the current band than the conversation, Pak found she’d quite lost the thread of it and she didn’t really mind. It wasn’t until Simon moved that she snapped back to what was going on around her.
Finding a faint smile for Simon as he left Pak returned her attention to her beer and clove. She would have been happy to remain invisible but it seemed someone had other plans.
Not bothering to hide her irritation at being addressed by Ambrose of all people Pak glared at him. She hadn’t expected to hold a grudge so long, but she still didn’t feel like forgiving him. He, however, seemed to think it was a game which only irritated her further.
“If you know what you’re dealing with there shouldn’t ever be a problem.”
OK so that didn’t have a lot to do with the music question and now she was cross with herself for rising to his bait. At least she hadn’t sounded as pissy as she felt.
Finding a faint smile for Simon as he left Pak returned her attention to her beer and clove. She would have been happy to remain invisible but it seemed someone had other plans.
Not bothering to hide her irritation at being addressed by Ambrose of all people Pak glared at him. She hadn’t expected to hold a grudge so long, but she still didn’t feel like forgiving him. He, however, seemed to think it was a game which only irritated her further.
“If you know what you’re dealing with there shouldn’t ever be a problem.”
OK so that didn’t have a lot to do with the music question and now she was cross with herself for rising to his bait. At least she hadn’t sounded as pissy as she felt.
Ysabel
17 years ago
"A magician never reveals his -or her- tricks, is it? How appropriate," Ysabel smiled at Yuu, not at all put out by the woman's declining to work her magic further.
Right about then was when Simon decided to meet his date, and as he left Ysabel rose and gave him a polite little curtsey. Interesting. Apparently, she had just been invited to the Domicile. Was that the case? She and Dayle had never appeared in each other's respective clan properties. An interesting offer. She wouldn't mind seeing where her sister lived... perhaps, in return, she could show Dayle around her own small suite at Heolfor. She would have to look into it.
Meanwhile, the conversation had meandered onto the subject of music, as it was always bound to do at Shades'. Ysabel smiled enthusiastically at the idea of hearing Ambrose play... she had heard him on several occasions, but she very much enjoyed it when he played with Katrina's band, even if she wasn't at all fond of Katrina herself.
The byplay between Pakpao and Ambrose, too, was of interest to her. Ysabel was still uncertain about the way the two of then related to each other, and figured she might just have to ask Ambrose about it later on.
"You should go warm up with them," she said in low tones to Ambrose. "Katrina will get angry again."
The first time Ysabel had been here, a few nights back, the drummer had been less than pleased to find Ambrose sitting in the audience with his lover rather than tuning up with the group, and had had some rather choice words to say about it. Ysabel would rather not hear any of that here and now, so much as she wanted Ambrose to stay, she encouraged him to head backstage before Katrina could come storming out to fetch him.
Right about then was when Simon decided to meet his date, and as he left Ysabel rose and gave him a polite little curtsey. Interesting. Apparently, she had just been invited to the Domicile. Was that the case? She and Dayle had never appeared in each other's respective clan properties. An interesting offer. She wouldn't mind seeing where her sister lived... perhaps, in return, she could show Dayle around her own small suite at Heolfor. She would have to look into it.
Meanwhile, the conversation had meandered onto the subject of music, as it was always bound to do at Shades'. Ysabel smiled enthusiastically at the idea of hearing Ambrose play... she had heard him on several occasions, but she very much enjoyed it when he played with Katrina's band, even if she wasn't at all fond of Katrina herself.
The byplay between Pakpao and Ambrose, too, was of interest to her. Ysabel was still uncertain about the way the two of then related to each other, and figured she might just have to ask Ambrose about it later on.
"You should go warm up with them," she said in low tones to Ambrose. "Katrina will get angry again."
The first time Ysabel had been here, a few nights back, the drummer had been less than pleased to find Ambrose sitting in the audience with his lover rather than tuning up with the group, and had had some rather choice words to say about it. Ysabel would rather not hear any of that here and now, so much as she wanted Ambrose to stay, she encouraged him to head backstage before Katrina could come storming out to fetch him.
Dawn Ratana
17 years ago
Smiling pleasantly. That was what Dawn was practicing for the evening, it seemed. No teeth, certainly no fang, just a quiet, mellow smile as her eyes followed the motions of the crowd. She tried to look shocked when Yuu said she'd made grown men cry, but probably came off looking like she had a spot of indigestion instead. After that she practiced the smile again...and again when Simon got up to leave. The smile left briefly at the smoker and Ambrose's interaction, replaced by a look of slight confusion. She'd pretend to treat it as a non-sequitor, rather than jabbing.
Turning her attention to who she guessed was the Katrina individual, she nodded mentally to herself. Definitely a drummer type - someone used to lugging things around and keeping artists bound to joint practices rather than spiraling off into artistic whimsy. Of course, that took a toll on a person's soul - a drummer's blood was bitter and had a kick...like old espresso. Dawn preferred her blood spicier and less likely to make her face wrinkle up.
She hoped that the music would be worth the acting practice...it'd keep her mind more smoothly in character, make it seem less forced. If the bands didn't start in earnest, soon, she'd be a ball of nervous twitches.
If nothing else, it helped her practice her self control.
Taking an inventory of the drinks in front of the various conversationalists, Dawn lightly but firmly placed her hand on a passing waitress's arm.
May I get a chardonnay, please?
Turning her attention to who she guessed was the Katrina individual, she nodded mentally to herself. Definitely a drummer type - someone used to lugging things around and keeping artists bound to joint practices rather than spiraling off into artistic whimsy. Of course, that took a toll on a person's soul - a drummer's blood was bitter and had a kick...like old espresso. Dawn preferred her blood spicier and less likely to make her face wrinkle up.
She hoped that the music would be worth the acting practice...it'd keep her mind more smoothly in character, make it seem less forced. If the bands didn't start in earnest, soon, she'd be a ball of nervous twitches.
If nothing else, it helped her practice her self control.
Taking an inventory of the drinks in front of the various conversationalists, Dawn lightly but firmly placed her hand on a passing waitress's arm.
May I get a chardonnay, please?
Yuu
17 years ago
Yuu watched the other's discussing tonight's upcoming performance and found herself tuning out. Fading away. Her eyes glazed over as she automatically smiled and nodded, her enthusiam slowly dissapating. Nachton was still so foreign to her, the largeness of the city and its ability to stay under the radar from the rest of the country perplexed her. She never recalled hearing about the city often in the news, yet while here she had already experienced an explosion and now a manhunt - well the manhunt was inevitable for Tai.
Tai. So foolishly did she trust him. With more than just her life, but that first night and barely knowing him. He's not even native to the city yet everything around here seemed to happen under odd circumstances. Dani seemed immune to it, but then she hadn't brought up this weird feeling she had.
What weird feeling?
It occured to her that she had the feeling but never quite noticed it. It never really surfaced until just now. Looking at everyone through the thickness of the air in the club. Meeting Ysabel and Aaron in the park - the way they dressed. Simon, who immediately struck her as dangerous in every sense of the word. Her attraction wanned as she considered that yet again odd feeling while looking at his mouth.
Nothing seemed normal yet everything was. Maybe...just maybe, it was Yuu that didn't fit in.
Life had always seemingly moved with her with an inner soundtrack. At least it did before she stepped foot into Nachton. The andrenaline rush of closing arguments was always accompanied by something metal and screeching in her head. Even walking down the sidewalk she did it with that inner rhythmn that said 'fuck not with this bitch'.
None of it. That feeling of normalcy. Nothing. She felt empty in Nachton. As if she was being missed somewhere. Being in the wrong place, at the wrong time for no reason at all.
Absently Yuu chewed on her lip, causing it to bleed, but even that she couldn't taste.
Tai. So foolishly did she trust him. With more than just her life, but that first night and barely knowing him. He's not even native to the city yet everything around here seemed to happen under odd circumstances. Dani seemed immune to it, but then she hadn't brought up this weird feeling she had.
What weird feeling?
It occured to her that she had the feeling but never quite noticed it. It never really surfaced until just now. Looking at everyone through the thickness of the air in the club. Meeting Ysabel and Aaron in the park - the way they dressed. Simon, who immediately struck her as dangerous in every sense of the word. Her attraction wanned as she considered that yet again odd feeling while looking at his mouth.
Nothing seemed normal yet everything was. Maybe...just maybe, it was Yuu that didn't fit in.
Life had always seemingly moved with her with an inner soundtrack. At least it did before she stepped foot into Nachton. The andrenaline rush of closing arguments was always accompanied by something metal and screeching in her head. Even walking down the sidewalk she did it with that inner rhythmn that said 'fuck not with this bitch'.
None of it. That feeling of normalcy. Nothing. She felt empty in Nachton. As if she was being missed somewhere. Being in the wrong place, at the wrong time for no reason at all.
Absently Yuu chewed on her lip, causing it to bleed, but even that she couldn't taste.
Danielle
17 years ago
Dani bade Simon goodbye as warmly as ever, the sense of competition still being on the friendly side in her mind. She was, however, wondering who his companion was; she was clearly not up on news. Noting his goodbyes to Yuu (‘I’ll just bet you’ll be seeing her again’
and Ysabel, she absently concluded that her friend wasn’t enjoying herself and Ysabel’s connection to Simon was more personal than business.
Nodding at Ambrose’s response, she leaned in, interested, when he explained more about the gig.
“’The Moochers?’ What an interesting name.” She gave a smile and turned to hear Pak’s answer, glad that Ambrose was not so subtly trying to bring her into the conversation. And, wow, that had backfired spectacularly on him! Dani thought Ambrose seemed to be kidding around but Pak’s response cooled the table a few degrees. He was obviously finding some way to bother her, but having no idea of their history it was impossible to say how.
After a somewhat awkward pause, she brightly chimed in with another question.
“What’s your regular gig then?”
Noticing out of the corner of the eye that Yuu had gone from sitting quietly to chewing on her lip, she decided to drag her, and Pak if at all possible, to the ladies room at the next break in the conversation. At that moment Dawn caught a waitress’s attention and she thought it was as good a time as any to get a drink as well.
“And I’ll have a cranberry juice, please.”
and Ysabel, she absently concluded that her friend wasn’t enjoying herself and Ysabel’s connection to Simon was more personal than business.Nodding at Ambrose’s response, she leaned in, interested, when he explained more about the gig.
“’The Moochers?’ What an interesting name.” She gave a smile and turned to hear Pak’s answer, glad that Ambrose was not so subtly trying to bring her into the conversation. And, wow, that had backfired spectacularly on him! Dani thought Ambrose seemed to be kidding around but Pak’s response cooled the table a few degrees. He was obviously finding some way to bother her, but having no idea of their history it was impossible to say how.
After a somewhat awkward pause, she brightly chimed in with another question.
“What’s your regular gig then?”
Noticing out of the corner of the eye that Yuu had gone from sitting quietly to chewing on her lip, she decided to drag her, and Pak if at all possible, to the ladies room at the next break in the conversation. At that moment Dawn caught a waitress’s attention and she thought it was as good a time as any to get a drink as well.
“And I’ll have a cranberry juice, please.”
Yuu
17 years ago
Yuu stood up and smoothed her skirt. Casting a glance at Dani, she muttered, 'Bathroom?' Pushing away from the table, the waitress heard her question and pointed in the direction of it which was down by the front of the club.
'Dani?'
'Dani?'
Ambrose
17 years ago
Not in the mood to hold back, he laughed at the Dragon Lady's respond. Damned she did know how to hold a grudge didn't she? Ambrose was willing to bet she wouldn't be any more civil in fifty or even a hundred years.
Still nursing his drink, he shook his head at Belle. Let Katrina get prissy with him, it didn't bother him at all.
"She'll keep. Besides, she's getting a drink."Â?
Neither of the difficult women he was dealing with this evening, Katrina and Pakpao that was, was putting Ambrose off his mood. He grinned over at Dani's.
"They named themselves after an Cab Calloway song 'Minnie the Moocher'. Do a pretty good cover of it to, its in the set tonight as a matter of fact."Â?
He loved playing that cover too, great fun. He even got into the hidey-hi's with the rest of the group.
"I don't have one per say. Mostly studio work, just happened to click with these guys so we play a lot."Â?
Still nursing his drink, he shook his head at Belle. Let Katrina get prissy with him, it didn't bother him at all.
"She'll keep. Besides, she's getting a drink."Â?
Neither of the difficult women he was dealing with this evening, Katrina and Pakpao that was, was putting Ambrose off his mood. He grinned over at Dani's.
"They named themselves after an Cab Calloway song 'Minnie the Moocher'. Do a pretty good cover of it to, its in the set tonight as a matter of fact."Â?
He loved playing that cover too, great fun. He even got into the hidey-hi's with the rest of the group.
"I don't have one per say. Mostly studio work, just happened to click with these guys so we play a lot."Â?
Danielle
17 years ago
Dani nodded as Ambrose explained the origins of the band’s name, thinking it was cool that there was a story behind it. She could understand not wanting a regular gig; it was good to have the freedom to explore one’s interests, after all.
“I see; you’re an independent.” “She smiled politely. “I don’t know the song; I’ll have to keep an ear out for that one tonight.”
Yuu seemed to be thinking along the same lines and she gave her friend a nod, shooting a look to Pak as she stood and made their excuses in the hopes that she in particular might join the herd going to the lady’s room.
/ooc Dani and Yuu out and into a thread to be created shortly - any/all the girls are of course welcome to join in the break
“I see; you’re an independent.” “She smiled politely. “I don’t know the song; I’ll have to keep an ear out for that one tonight.”
Yuu seemed to be thinking along the same lines and she gave her friend a nod, shooting a look to Pak as she stood and made their excuses in the hopes that she in particular might join the herd going to the lady’s room.
/ooc Dani and Yuu out and into a thread to be created shortly - any/all the girls are of course welcome to join in the break
Dawn Ratana
17 years ago
Smiling sedately to the departing ladies, Dawn sighed quietly. On the inside, she felt like flipping over the table and shouting at the top of her lungs. Certainly consuming a large quantity of alcohol, possibly through someone else's system. upper-cutting a punkass would be right up on the list, too. Sadly, that Dawn was left behind in her Manor room this evening, having read a new assignment from Ko.
The gauntlet he'd thrown down - convince several strangers that you are someone and something that you are not - seemed easy at the time, but she dreaded it knowing the initial scoff to be incorrect...as it had been so many times before. Of the possibilities, a sedate and bookish personality had seemed the easiest. In retrospect, she wished that she'd made another choice...like a Gospel shouter or something more energetic. Reigning in all of her energy was going to make her explode...hopefully after she'd returned to the manor and was in the training room.
Turning to her clansmen, she smiled politely.
"I apologize if I am intruding on your evening out. I hadn't realized that you two were so close. Ifya like I kin...ah. I mean, is there anything that I can get for you to make up for the intrustion?"
Fuck...slipup there. Tenshun's showin. Ah, here some wine. 'opeful tey'llsay yessan I kin git a shotatoo inere t'take th'edjoff. RRRrrrr! Least I kin keep th'face calm! Gonna choke th'shit outta Ko fer thissun!
"But I was curious...what do you two think of the wild and exciting new me? I cut my hair today. Did you notice?"
Toying with the wig, she managed not to laugh. If anything, the contained glee probably lent credibility to the part. Granted, the source of amusement was entirely different, but she hoped that would not be obvious to anyone but a mind-reader.
The gauntlet he'd thrown down - convince several strangers that you are someone and something that you are not - seemed easy at the time, but she dreaded it knowing the initial scoff to be incorrect...as it had been so many times before. Of the possibilities, a sedate and bookish personality had seemed the easiest. In retrospect, she wished that she'd made another choice...like a Gospel shouter or something more energetic. Reigning in all of her energy was going to make her explode...hopefully after she'd returned to the manor and was in the training room.
Turning to her clansmen, she smiled politely.
"I apologize if I am intruding on your evening out. I hadn't realized that you two were so close. Ifya like I kin...ah. I mean, is there anything that I can get for you to make up for the intrustion?"
Fuck...slipup there. Tenshun's showin. Ah, here some wine. 'opeful tey'llsay yessan I kin git a shotatoo inere t'take th'edjoff. RRRrrrr! Least I kin keep th'face calm! Gonna choke th'shit outta Ko fer thissun!
"But I was curious...what do you two think of the wild and exciting new me? I cut my hair today. Did you notice?"
Toying with the wig, she managed not to laugh. If anything, the contained glee probably lent credibility to the part. Granted, the source of amusement was entirely different, but she hoped that would not be obvious to anyone but a mind-reader.
Pakpao
17 years ago
The laugh was the last straw. Pak's dark mood, even tempered by subterfuge, reached a breaking point. She drained her beer, stubbed out her clove and stood accidentally on purpose jostling the table, hoping to spill someone's drink... preferable Ambrose's.
"Sorry about that, must have tripped."Â?
It was a weak excuse but with any luck at least a few would buy it.
She'd thought to just leave, her tab was paid and she didn't really care if she offended anyone or not. However, as she prepared to leave she though just maybe she'd follow Dani to the ladies and at least apologize. She could have handled this better.
(OOC... Pak out)
"Sorry about that, must have tripped."Â?
It was a weak excuse but with any luck at least a few would buy it.
She'd thought to just leave, her tab was paid and she didn't really care if she offended anyone or not. However, as she prepared to leave she though just maybe she'd follow Dani to the ladies and at least apologize. She could have handled this better.
(OOC... Pak out)
Ysabel
17 years ago
Ysabel wondered curiously at the fact that Pak, Dani, and Yuu all seemed to have developed a sudden urge to relieve themselves. She regarded them with a neutral expression, concealing her amusement as it would have been rude to express it as such. Perhaps with Ambrose and Dayle she was relaxed enough to tease, but she wouldn't think of doing so in mixed, unfamiliar company.
She twined her fingers into Ambrose's though, smiling as the other women left. Turning to Dawn then she responded to her clanswoman by immediately reassuring her.
"You didn't intrude at all," she said with a calming gesture of her hand. "We're glad to have you. There's no need to make up for it."
Dawn was toying with what Ysabel had been certain was a wig, but again propriety intervened and kept her from saying anything that might be considered rude. "It's quite lovely. It suits your complexion," she said. Then she gave a soft laugh as she realized what Dawn had just said about herself. "Wild and exciting? Do you have a tiger in your purse?"
She offered a smile at the small joke, her eyes twinkling with suppressed mischief. Ysabel didn't know Dawn well, but she'd seen her at Heolfor and from what she'd observed and what she'd been told only briefly by Ambrose, the woman was usually a bit more... energetic.
She twined her fingers into Ambrose's though, smiling as the other women left. Turning to Dawn then she responded to her clanswoman by immediately reassuring her.
"You didn't intrude at all," she said with a calming gesture of her hand. "We're glad to have you. There's no need to make up for it."
Dawn was toying with what Ysabel had been certain was a wig, but again propriety intervened and kept her from saying anything that might be considered rude. "It's quite lovely. It suits your complexion," she said. Then she gave a soft laugh as she realized what Dawn had just said about herself. "Wild and exciting? Do you have a tiger in your purse?"
She offered a smile at the small joke, her eyes twinkling with suppressed mischief. Ysabel didn't know Dawn well, but she'd seen her at Heolfor and from what she'd observed and what she'd been told only briefly by Ambrose, the woman was usually a bit more... energetic.