Introduction
Bay city is a wonderful place to live. Bright lights, warm sea air and teeming with life. it’s a vibrant city and well known tourist attraction over the summer months. However not everything is as it seems in the city, strange things seem to happen in the oddest circumstances. Talking animals, aliens, robots and magical girls are all par for the course, and the strangest part is no one in the city seems to notice!
Players take the role of various residents of the Royal Hotel, who for one reason or another take up residence there, much to the chagrin of its current owner. Your characters can range from the mundane to the fantastic. Bay City is a setting where, but where, despite it taking part in our world most of the inhabitants just accept the outlandish as part of life. So noone finds anything odd about a guy walking around in full samurai regalia with a sword. A talking alley cat is treated with an "I must be hearing things. Oh well." Nekos and what have you are seen as perfectly ordinary. "What, you've never seen someone with cat ears and a tail where you come from? Wierd.", Magical girls and the like are running around fighting monsters at night while trying to keep it a secret from the rest of the town.
Bay City:
Bay City is a large coastal city in an unidentified country with a tropical climate (though it often snows during the winter season.) The city is a melting pot of cultures and customs with elements from many other countries. Bay City is built around a large river which leads into the sea, with the two sides of the city connected via a number of suspension bridges. The city itself is divided between a number of locations.
Beachside and the Marina:
A tropical beach paradise complete with palm trees, golden sands and pristine clear waters. The beach itself stretches for miles in either direction and the city's seafront area is lined with resort style hotels, cafes, restaurants and other amusements. A large marina acts as the entertainment hub of the city, and is popular with young people as a hang out.
The City Centre:
The heart of the city. A hive of activity filled with shopping malls, office blocks and apartment complexes first developed as a commercial district on the north side of the river when the city began to expand rapidly during the 1900s. As a result many of the older buildings retain a distinct art deco style. A maze of streets and back alleys just like any other city. Skyscrapers and highways provide a backdrop of urban sprawl that hides surprises around every corner.
The Historical District:
Old town, as the locals call it, is a historical area to the south of the city and home to stunning architecture from the Victorian era. This area of the city hasn't changed since it was first built in the 1800s. The streets of Old Town are narrow and winding, suggesting little to no planning in their original layout. Quiet and peaceful by comparison it is home to a number of small, locally owned businesses.
Key locations and characters:
The Stray Cat:
A small, local jazz bar with a friendly atmosphere. Located below ground level in one of the many back alleys of the City centre, the Stray Cat is a hidden gem that acts as a watering hole for an eclectic and eccentric clientelle. The owner, known only as ‘Chief’, is a friendly, grandfatherly sort always ready to dispense wise words to customers and employees alike. A former boxer and celebrated Jazz musician, he has since settled down to live out his dream, opening a bar. Chief appears to be friends with many celebrities and famous figures and often namedrops many of his famous acquaintances, some of whom have even been known to drop by and visit on occasion.
Oasis:
A fine dining restaurant situated in the Marina. The Oasis is a high class establishment that draws in a number of high profile clients from famous actors and musicians to politicians and rich entrepreneurs. Its renown chefs are drawn from the world over for their culinary excellence, providing the finest dining experience in the entire city. Its manager, Clara Emilla is a serious and level headed woman with a shrewd business sense. However her kind and mature appearances hide a mischievous streak that verges on the sadistic. Clara loves teasing others and pulling pranks on them, especially if they are someone she deems as ‘cute’. Her attentions have been known to drive people to the brink of insanity, all of which Clara finds highly amusing.
Café Emilla:
A small, independently run café and bakery in the Old Town area. The café, though not widely known, much to its owner’s despair, is nonetheless a popular hangout for the young and hip. The owner, Sara Emilla is the younger sister of Clara. She took over the running of the family business after their parents passed away, and enjoys nothing more. Sara is typical of a girl her age in most ways, however she is far more grounded than her sister, arguably being the more mature of the two and is often the only one who notices the odd happenings that occur around Bay City.
Future publishing:
The publishing house for Bay City’s local newspaper and a number of magazines. The office of Future publishing is located in the 99th storey of Imperial Plaza and is abuzz with rumours and hotshot reporters looking to get their name in the by line. If something is happening in the city, someone at Future will know about it. Its owner, media mogul George Spawls is an old fashioned entrepreneur in the mould of the Media barons of Fleet street. A larger than life character, Spawls has a fiery temper and curmudgeonly attitude.
Imperial Plaza
The large art deco skyscraper in the middle of the city centre. A major landmark and one of the city’s crowning achievements, it was reputedly built a former mayor of Bay City after a bet with the mayor of New York. For this reason Imperial Plaza stands precisely one inch taller than the Empire State and rumour has it the very tip of the flag pole is inscribed with the words “Bay City #1” The building itself is largely offices nowadays, though several floors are rented out to private owners, presumably as apartments, though no one has ever checked to make sure. The very top floor is open to the public, acting as a viewing platform and public museum.
Bay City Tower
Another of Bay City’s imitation landmarks, the Bay City Tower is a scale replica of the Eiffel tower, built for no apparent reason other than it could be done. The top viewing platform has now been modified to function as a restaurant, its position granting it an unparalleled view of the river and beach. For this reason it is a popular destination for romantic nights out. Rumour has it the tower has seen more break ups than any other location in the city…
Union Bridge
The largest of the suspension bridges built to connect the two sides of the river. The Union Bridge is a popular place to confess ones love, as legend has it that confessing on the bridge will ensure the couple stay together forever. The bridge is also known for its high suicide rate. Though the two are believed to be unconnected.
The Quays Mall
An enormous shopping complex on the Marina. The Quays has everything you could ever need all under one roof, along with a number of things you don’t really need but are kinda nice anyway. A popular meeting point for all ages due to its proximity to the beach, the Quays is where most young people wll spend their free time in Bay City.
Springhill High
The main high school in the Bay City area. It runs classes from the typical (maths and English etc) to the more… eccentric (advanced arctic survival techniques and underwater cookery) Despite the name, the school actually takes on students of all ages, with separate wings for Kindergarten, middle school and High school students. Criminally understaffed despite its enormous funding, the school often employs part time teachers from the local community. One long suffering teacher, Yuki Fujimura is currently tipped number one in the sweepstakes for the next teacher to have a nervous breakdown, due the sheer workload forced on her by her superiors and her class of troublesome students.
Champion’s Gym
A small time boxing and martial arts gym owned by a former rival of Chief’s. Frequented by a number of up and coming stars of the fighting world, Champion’s gym should be famous by now. And it would be if it weren’t for a series of bizarre coincidences that hamper its fighters progress in the ring. From heavy bags taking out experienced boxers to gloves exploding on impact, it seems like there’s a curse on Champion’s gym. The proprieter, Geoffrey Briggs was a hot shot boxer with a mouth as fast as his fists in the old days and his rivalry with fellow boxing superstar now known as the Chief is the stuff of legend. Geoff still continues his end of the rivalry ot this day, frequently challenging his old adversary at everything from drag racing to peanut eating contests. Not that Chief seems to care or even notice.
The Royal Hotel
A long abandoned hotel in Old Town. The hotel itself is rumoured to be haunted and as a result has stood empty despite a great location and potential value. However just recently a young out of towner has purchased the hotel with the intent of using it as his home and office. Guy Ashton is a young photojournalist who recently moved to Bay City with his younger siblings. While honest and good natured, his laid back attitude means he is often seen as a lay about or a slacker. He, along with Sara Emilla seems to be one of the few people who notice the odd occurrences. Recently though the hotel has become home to a number of other characters, who for one reason or another have taken it as their home. Most of them against Guy's wishes. Nevertheless he treats these 'freeloaders' as he calls them, as members of his own family.
Players take the role of various residents of the Royal Hotel, who for one reason or another take up residence there, much to the chagrin of its current owner. Your characters can range from the mundane to the fantastic. Bay City is a setting where, but where, despite it taking part in our world most of the inhabitants just accept the outlandish as part of life. So noone finds anything odd about a guy walking around in full samurai regalia with a sword. A talking alley cat is treated with an "I must be hearing things. Oh well." Nekos and what have you are seen as perfectly ordinary. "What, you've never seen someone with cat ears and a tail where you come from? Wierd.", Magical girls and the like are running around fighting monsters at night while trying to keep it a secret from the rest of the town.
Bay City:
Bay City is a large coastal city in an unidentified country with a tropical climate (though it often snows during the winter season.) The city is a melting pot of cultures and customs with elements from many other countries. Bay City is built around a large river which leads into the sea, with the two sides of the city connected via a number of suspension bridges. The city itself is divided between a number of locations.
Beachside and the Marina:
A tropical beach paradise complete with palm trees, golden sands and pristine clear waters. The beach itself stretches for miles in either direction and the city's seafront area is lined with resort style hotels, cafes, restaurants and other amusements. A large marina acts as the entertainment hub of the city, and is popular with young people as a hang out.
The City Centre:
The heart of the city. A hive of activity filled with shopping malls, office blocks and apartment complexes first developed as a commercial district on the north side of the river when the city began to expand rapidly during the 1900s. As a result many of the older buildings retain a distinct art deco style. A maze of streets and back alleys just like any other city. Skyscrapers and highways provide a backdrop of urban sprawl that hides surprises around every corner.
The Historical District:
Old town, as the locals call it, is a historical area to the south of the city and home to stunning architecture from the Victorian era. This area of the city hasn't changed since it was first built in the 1800s. The streets of Old Town are narrow and winding, suggesting little to no planning in their original layout. Quiet and peaceful by comparison it is home to a number of small, locally owned businesses.
Key locations and characters:
The Stray Cat:
A small, local jazz bar with a friendly atmosphere. Located below ground level in one of the many back alleys of the City centre, the Stray Cat is a hidden gem that acts as a watering hole for an eclectic and eccentric clientelle. The owner, known only as ‘Chief’, is a friendly, grandfatherly sort always ready to dispense wise words to customers and employees alike. A former boxer and celebrated Jazz musician, he has since settled down to live out his dream, opening a bar. Chief appears to be friends with many celebrities and famous figures and often namedrops many of his famous acquaintances, some of whom have even been known to drop by and visit on occasion.
Oasis:
A fine dining restaurant situated in the Marina. The Oasis is a high class establishment that draws in a number of high profile clients from famous actors and musicians to politicians and rich entrepreneurs. Its renown chefs are drawn from the world over for their culinary excellence, providing the finest dining experience in the entire city. Its manager, Clara Emilla is a serious and level headed woman with a shrewd business sense. However her kind and mature appearances hide a mischievous streak that verges on the sadistic. Clara loves teasing others and pulling pranks on them, especially if they are someone she deems as ‘cute’. Her attentions have been known to drive people to the brink of insanity, all of which Clara finds highly amusing.
Café Emilla:
A small, independently run café and bakery in the Old Town area. The café, though not widely known, much to its owner’s despair, is nonetheless a popular hangout for the young and hip. The owner, Sara Emilla is the younger sister of Clara. She took over the running of the family business after their parents passed away, and enjoys nothing more. Sara is typical of a girl her age in most ways, however she is far more grounded than her sister, arguably being the more mature of the two and is often the only one who notices the odd happenings that occur around Bay City.
Future publishing:
The publishing house for Bay City’s local newspaper and a number of magazines. The office of Future publishing is located in the 99th storey of Imperial Plaza and is abuzz with rumours and hotshot reporters looking to get their name in the by line. If something is happening in the city, someone at Future will know about it. Its owner, media mogul George Spawls is an old fashioned entrepreneur in the mould of the Media barons of Fleet street. A larger than life character, Spawls has a fiery temper and curmudgeonly attitude.
Imperial Plaza
The large art deco skyscraper in the middle of the city centre. A major landmark and one of the city’s crowning achievements, it was reputedly built a former mayor of Bay City after a bet with the mayor of New York. For this reason Imperial Plaza stands precisely one inch taller than the Empire State and rumour has it the very tip of the flag pole is inscribed with the words “Bay City #1” The building itself is largely offices nowadays, though several floors are rented out to private owners, presumably as apartments, though no one has ever checked to make sure. The very top floor is open to the public, acting as a viewing platform and public museum.
Bay City Tower
Another of Bay City’s imitation landmarks, the Bay City Tower is a scale replica of the Eiffel tower, built for no apparent reason other than it could be done. The top viewing platform has now been modified to function as a restaurant, its position granting it an unparalleled view of the river and beach. For this reason it is a popular destination for romantic nights out. Rumour has it the tower has seen more break ups than any other location in the city…
Union Bridge
The largest of the suspension bridges built to connect the two sides of the river. The Union Bridge is a popular place to confess ones love, as legend has it that confessing on the bridge will ensure the couple stay together forever. The bridge is also known for its high suicide rate. Though the two are believed to be unconnected.
The Quays Mall
An enormous shopping complex on the Marina. The Quays has everything you could ever need all under one roof, along with a number of things you don’t really need but are kinda nice anyway. A popular meeting point for all ages due to its proximity to the beach, the Quays is where most young people wll spend their free time in Bay City.
Springhill High
The main high school in the Bay City area. It runs classes from the typical (maths and English etc) to the more… eccentric (advanced arctic survival techniques and underwater cookery) Despite the name, the school actually takes on students of all ages, with separate wings for Kindergarten, middle school and High school students. Criminally understaffed despite its enormous funding, the school often employs part time teachers from the local community. One long suffering teacher, Yuki Fujimura is currently tipped number one in the sweepstakes for the next teacher to have a nervous breakdown, due the sheer workload forced on her by her superiors and her class of troublesome students.
Champion’s Gym
A small time boxing and martial arts gym owned by a former rival of Chief’s. Frequented by a number of up and coming stars of the fighting world, Champion’s gym should be famous by now. And it would be if it weren’t for a series of bizarre coincidences that hamper its fighters progress in the ring. From heavy bags taking out experienced boxers to gloves exploding on impact, it seems like there’s a curse on Champion’s gym. The proprieter, Geoffrey Briggs was a hot shot boxer with a mouth as fast as his fists in the old days and his rivalry with fellow boxing superstar now known as the Chief is the stuff of legend. Geoff still continues his end of the rivalry ot this day, frequently challenging his old adversary at everything from drag racing to peanut eating contests. Not that Chief seems to care or even notice.
The Royal Hotel
A long abandoned hotel in Old Town. The hotel itself is rumoured to be haunted and as a result has stood empty despite a great location and potential value. However just recently a young out of towner has purchased the hotel with the intent of using it as his home and office. Guy Ashton is a young photojournalist who recently moved to Bay City with his younger siblings. While honest and good natured, his laid back attitude means he is often seen as a lay about or a slacker. He, along with Sara Emilla seems to be one of the few people who notice the odd occurrences. Recently though the hotel has become home to a number of other characters, who for one reason or another have taken it as their home. Most of them against Guy's wishes. Nevertheless he treats these 'freeloaders' as he calls them, as members of his own family.
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Setting
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The sun felt warm on Guy's face and he grimaced as he stretched his arms with a groaning yawn before letting them drop in an ungainly sprawl over the bed. The sound of birdcalls could be hear and Guy let out a low groan, turning over onto his stomach where his half lidded eyes stared uncomprehendingly at his alarm clock. His blurred vision focussed just in time to see the clock strike 7 and he braced himself for the shrill scream of the alarm.
My name is Guy Ashton. I'm twenty two years old and self employed.
Guy slapped his hand down on the clock, silencing it as he rose to sit on the edge of his bed. Slumping forward he rubbed the sleep from his eyes and ruffled his dark hair, which stood up in messy, tangled quills. There he sat for the next ten minutes, fighting his desire to simply lay back down to sleep.
I live with my younger brothers and sisters in Bay City after our parents passed away. That makes me the head of the house I guess.
After several minutes of mental preparation he rose from his bed, trudging with heavy, shuffling footsteps to the bathroom across the corridor. Barely awake he reached out a hand to turn the door handle when a figure darted in front of him, opening the door and slamming it in his face before he could even make out which of his siblings it was. All of this seemed to Guy to have occurred within the space of a second and he stood there for a moment with only his boxer shirts to protect his modesty as his mind struggled to process what had happened. Soundlessly and he slunk back to his room, his head hung low in defeat.
Things aren't always easy, after all I have to be the responsible one now.
A short while later and Guy looked into the bathroom mirror, wiping the fog from its surface and peering at his reflection. The face that stared back at him was far from welcoming. Hooded eyes puffy and dark from sleep glared out from a tangled mop of wet hair and cheeks dusted with dark stubble, this was a shifty looking character to be sure. He slapped on a handful of shaving foam and ran the razor over his face, flinching as he caught his chin with the blade. He dabbed the cut with a towel, cursing under his breath.
But we're a pretty normal family. And they're the only ones I've got.
Guy towelled off his hair and threw on his shirt and jeans before stepping out into the hallway where another figure sprinted past him fast enough to leave a trail of dust in their wake. Downstairs in the kitchen he began to prepare breakfast, setting down a plate of pancakes infront of each seat at the table.
"Hey guys! Breakfast is ready!" He stepped out into the front room, a large foyer with a grand staircase leading down from the second floor. The smell of the pancakes wafted out of the kitchen with him, filling the house with a pleasent aroma.
Wait a second...
He stopped, feeling a strange sense of deja vu. Guy stood there, pouting for a moment as he tried to turned the peculiar sensation over in his sleep addled brain.
The front doors burst open suddenly, nearly flying of their hinges and slamming loudly against the walls. Guy flinched.
"Hello!" The short haired woman announced her presence with an energetic wave. Without pausing she made her way into the kitchen, sitting expectantly at the breakfast table, knife and fork clenched eagerly in her hands.
"Good morning Aunt Maria." Guy replied unenthusiastically as he walked behind her seat, swiping the plate from in front of her just as she was about to spear a pancake with her fork.
"Hey!" She protested, trying to wrestle the plate back from him. He Guy seemed to be winning until she drove the heel of her foot down onto his toes and the young man jumped backwards, clutching the injured, possibly broken appendage. He hissed through clenched teeth as he hopped up and down. "Honestly. Pancakes again? You're going to get fat." She tutted loudly.
"Look who's talking..." Guy winced, still massaging his foot while he leant against the kitchen counter. Maria glared at him silently. "Sara had a bunch of left over ingredients from the cafe that were about to expire so she gave them to me to use." He explained, limping as he walked now. "To tell you the truth I like pancakes, but even I'm getting sick of them after all this." He opened the cupboard and boxes of pancake mix spilled out over his head as he reached into the back to grab a packet of sugar. He pressed the boxes back inside, slamming the door shut.
My name is Guy Ashton. I'm twenty two years old and self employed.
Guy slapped his hand down on the clock, silencing it as he rose to sit on the edge of his bed. Slumping forward he rubbed the sleep from his eyes and ruffled his dark hair, which stood up in messy, tangled quills. There he sat for the next ten minutes, fighting his desire to simply lay back down to sleep.
I live with my younger brothers and sisters in Bay City after our parents passed away. That makes me the head of the house I guess.
After several minutes of mental preparation he rose from his bed, trudging with heavy, shuffling footsteps to the bathroom across the corridor. Barely awake he reached out a hand to turn the door handle when a figure darted in front of him, opening the door and slamming it in his face before he could even make out which of his siblings it was. All of this seemed to Guy to have occurred within the space of a second and he stood there for a moment with only his boxer shirts to protect his modesty as his mind struggled to process what had happened. Soundlessly and he slunk back to his room, his head hung low in defeat.
Things aren't always easy, after all I have to be the responsible one now.
A short while later and Guy looked into the bathroom mirror, wiping the fog from its surface and peering at his reflection. The face that stared back at him was far from welcoming. Hooded eyes puffy and dark from sleep glared out from a tangled mop of wet hair and cheeks dusted with dark stubble, this was a shifty looking character to be sure. He slapped on a handful of shaving foam and ran the razor over his face, flinching as he caught his chin with the blade. He dabbed the cut with a towel, cursing under his breath.
But we're a pretty normal family. And they're the only ones I've got.
Guy towelled off his hair and threw on his shirt and jeans before stepping out into the hallway where another figure sprinted past him fast enough to leave a trail of dust in their wake. Downstairs in the kitchen he began to prepare breakfast, setting down a plate of pancakes infront of each seat at the table.
"Hey guys! Breakfast is ready!" He stepped out into the front room, a large foyer with a grand staircase leading down from the second floor. The smell of the pancakes wafted out of the kitchen with him, filling the house with a pleasent aroma.
Wait a second...
He stopped, feeling a strange sense of deja vu. Guy stood there, pouting for a moment as he tried to turned the peculiar sensation over in his sleep addled brain.
The front doors burst open suddenly, nearly flying of their hinges and slamming loudly against the walls. Guy flinched.
"Hello!" The short haired woman announced her presence with an energetic wave. Without pausing she made her way into the kitchen, sitting expectantly at the breakfast table, knife and fork clenched eagerly in her hands.
"Good morning Aunt Maria." Guy replied unenthusiastically as he walked behind her seat, swiping the plate from in front of her just as she was about to spear a pancake with her fork.
"Hey!" She protested, trying to wrestle the plate back from him. He Guy seemed to be winning until she drove the heel of her foot down onto his toes and the young man jumped backwards, clutching the injured, possibly broken appendage. He hissed through clenched teeth as he hopped up and down. "Honestly. Pancakes again? You're going to get fat." She tutted loudly.
"Look who's talking..." Guy winced, still massaging his foot while he leant against the kitchen counter. Maria glared at him silently. "Sara had a bunch of left over ingredients from the cafe that were about to expire so she gave them to me to use." He explained, limping as he walked now. "To tell you the truth I like pancakes, but even I'm getting sick of them after all this." He opened the cupboard and boxes of pancake mix spilled out over his head as he reached into the back to grab a packet of sugar. He pressed the boxes back inside, slamming the door shut.
Setting
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Ariana raced from one end of the hall to the other, practically flying between her old room, filled with all of her old stuff, and her new room, which had little more than her bed. That was, of course, part of the appeal--emptiness--at least for now. It wasn't that she didn't like her old things, but that some of it seemed . . . haunted. She laughed to think of it, because surely there was no such thing as a ghost and yet she had the creepy inkling that something was watching her from beyond the material world. It had only just recently started and it was quite unnerving, to say the least.
Also unnerving was trying to get dressed in two different rooms. She used to be so good at picking an outfit, but that was before everything went all wrong at school. Now she took pains to look like she wasn't trying too hard. She didn't need the Tan Ladies clique any more than they needed her. She probably needed them less, in point of fact, but she couldn't start thinking such things, lest a giant head overwhelm her delicate neck. She had already made four trips back and forth between the two rooms and it was really getting ridiculous and even late. That was, until she smelled pancakes.
"Hey guys! Breakfast is ready!" she heard her brother call up.
She would never tire of pancakes. Even if she had to eat them as breakfast every day for the rest of her life, as long as she had Sundays off. Sundays, she liked to relax and a stomach full of pancakes was not something one just let sit there. One could get fat, even with an active teenaged metabolism. She didn't understand much about science, but a girl wanting in with the cool crowd and with her appetite knew about digestion; old habits die hard. She remembered that as she applied a fresh coating of sparkling lip gloss. It was raspberry-colored this time and not at all flattering when held against her hair. "Oh, bless it," she said and wiped off the dazzling pink, leaving a smudge of glitter at the corner that she licked off before consulting the label. "Not bad."
Dressed and ready to take on the school day sans sparkling lip gloss, Ariana walked downstairs to see Aunt Maria at the breakfast table. "Oh, hello, auntie. I'm surprised my brother let you start without us. He's such a control freak sometimes. I'm glad you're here, though, because as soon as I smelled those pancakes I couldn't stop thinking about breakfast." She sat down and speared herself some of the delicious golden discs before covering them with honey, jam, and some whipped cream. "It's heavenly, really. You should try it. It's definitely the best way to start off another super terrific day at school." Somehow, she managed to eat two pancakes in between words without needing to breathe. After so many mornings of pancakes, she was a true professional. "Where are the others? I won't be able to wait for them today. Oh no. I'm just too excited to go to school and learn things."
Also unnerving was trying to get dressed in two different rooms. She used to be so good at picking an outfit, but that was before everything went all wrong at school. Now she took pains to look like she wasn't trying too hard. She didn't need the Tan Ladies clique any more than they needed her. She probably needed them less, in point of fact, but she couldn't start thinking such things, lest a giant head overwhelm her delicate neck. She had already made four trips back and forth between the two rooms and it was really getting ridiculous and even late. That was, until she smelled pancakes.
"Hey guys! Breakfast is ready!" she heard her brother call up.
She would never tire of pancakes. Even if she had to eat them as breakfast every day for the rest of her life, as long as she had Sundays off. Sundays, she liked to relax and a stomach full of pancakes was not something one just let sit there. One could get fat, even with an active teenaged metabolism. She didn't understand much about science, but a girl wanting in with the cool crowd and with her appetite knew about digestion; old habits die hard. She remembered that as she applied a fresh coating of sparkling lip gloss. It was raspberry-colored this time and not at all flattering when held against her hair. "Oh, bless it," she said and wiped off the dazzling pink, leaving a smudge of glitter at the corner that she licked off before consulting the label. "Not bad."
Dressed and ready to take on the school day sans sparkling lip gloss, Ariana walked downstairs to see Aunt Maria at the breakfast table. "Oh, hello, auntie. I'm surprised my brother let you start without us. He's such a control freak sometimes. I'm glad you're here, though, because as soon as I smelled those pancakes I couldn't stop thinking about breakfast." She sat down and speared herself some of the delicious golden discs before covering them with honey, jam, and some whipped cream. "It's heavenly, really. You should try it. It's definitely the best way to start off another super terrific day at school." Somehow, she managed to eat two pancakes in between words without needing to breathe. After so many mornings of pancakes, she was a true professional. "Where are the others? I won't be able to wait for them today. Oh no. I'm just too excited to go to school and learn things."
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For the second time in as many weeks, Kinzie woke up to her aunt Jezzebelle perched on her night table. This was starting to be a habit, and it was a very unnerving one. Kinzie blinked sleepily at her aunt, and pulled the pillow out from under her head and hid under it instead. The last time Jezz had been up before she had, she'd been fired. There was no telling what would happen this time, and she really wasn't all that interested in finding it out just yet. Her alarm clock hadn't even gone off yet. At least she didn't have a cup of Chai in her hands this time.
"Come one sweeting, get up," Jezz caroled, pulling the pillow from her head.
"I don't want to. Why are you in my room?" Kinzie blinked up at her aunt for a moment. She wished she could hate her aunts. They'd taken her from her usual place in their ranks, and cast her into the realms of a teen-aged girl. True, she'd been in high school before the accident, but now that they'd fired her life was just so... boring. Well, since that day when the animals went crazy anyway. At least she'd gotten a friend out of that. Just one more reason for her aunts to be content, and stay the crap out of her life. Not a reason for her to wake up to Jezz, her youngest, and most night-owlish aunt.
"We need to have a little family talk is why. There's a long conference coming up, and we can't bring you with us like we'd planned what with you being fired and all." Jezzebelle's smile was almost feral. "I've heard that that friend of yours lives in that old hotel. The one that's supposed to be haunted..."
"When you say long, how long are you talking about?"
"Oh, a month or three... Somewhere around there. There's no telling how long these things will run, or how long we'll be tied up afterward." Kinzie didn't miss the lascivious grin on her aunts face, and she was suddenly glad that she wasn't going to be going with them.
"Why I can't I just stay here?" Kinzie asked finally sitting up as she saw the clock and realized that her aunt must have turned the alarm off, she was going to be late if she didn't start getting ready now. She was supposed to meet Ariana before school. They'd gotten closer than she'd been to anyone besides her aunts in the time since she'd stood up for the other girl after that little pixie incident at school. "You know what. I don't want to know your reasoning. I have somewhere I have to be. You know that social life you wanted me to have and all."
"Unless it's a boy you're meeting don't think that you're getting off that easily." Jezz caught her in a strong grip as she started to dart past.
"Some other time auntie, I'm in a hurry." She pulled from her aunts grip, and headed for her closet, she needed something long sleeved today now. Jezz had probably left a bruise. She was dressed in record time, and grabbed her leather jacket off it's hanger, grabbing up her helmet as she brushed past her. She was in a hurry, and that meant taking her bike. "I'm sure you'll manage to have my future all figured out for me by the time that I get home." She smiled as she snatched up the keys. "I'll make sure the tank is full, love you auntie Jezz!"
With that she was off for the garage, and her bike. It wasn't her favorite mode of transportation. It played havoc on the hair, and left one highly exposed, but when you wanted to get somewhere fast, it was the way to go. Hopefully there weren't too many squished bug remains on her clothes when she got to school. They were her truly least favorite part.
"Come one sweeting, get up," Jezz caroled, pulling the pillow from her head.
"I don't want to. Why are you in my room?" Kinzie blinked up at her aunt for a moment. She wished she could hate her aunts. They'd taken her from her usual place in their ranks, and cast her into the realms of a teen-aged girl. True, she'd been in high school before the accident, but now that they'd fired her life was just so... boring. Well, since that day when the animals went crazy anyway. At least she'd gotten a friend out of that. Just one more reason for her aunts to be content, and stay the crap out of her life. Not a reason for her to wake up to Jezz, her youngest, and most night-owlish aunt.
"We need to have a little family talk is why. There's a long conference coming up, and we can't bring you with us like we'd planned what with you being fired and all." Jezzebelle's smile was almost feral. "I've heard that that friend of yours lives in that old hotel. The one that's supposed to be haunted..."
"When you say long, how long are you talking about?"
"Oh, a month or three... Somewhere around there. There's no telling how long these things will run, or how long we'll be tied up afterward." Kinzie didn't miss the lascivious grin on her aunts face, and she was suddenly glad that she wasn't going to be going with them.
"Why I can't I just stay here?" Kinzie asked finally sitting up as she saw the clock and realized that her aunt must have turned the alarm off, she was going to be late if she didn't start getting ready now. She was supposed to meet Ariana before school. They'd gotten closer than she'd been to anyone besides her aunts in the time since she'd stood up for the other girl after that little pixie incident at school. "You know what. I don't want to know your reasoning. I have somewhere I have to be. You know that social life you wanted me to have and all."
"Unless it's a boy you're meeting don't think that you're getting off that easily." Jezz caught her in a strong grip as she started to dart past.
"Some other time auntie, I'm in a hurry." She pulled from her aunts grip, and headed for her closet, she needed something long sleeved today now. Jezz had probably left a bruise. She was dressed in record time, and grabbed her leather jacket off it's hanger, grabbing up her helmet as she brushed past her. She was in a hurry, and that meant taking her bike. "I'm sure you'll manage to have my future all figured out for me by the time that I get home." She smiled as she snatched up the keys. "I'll make sure the tank is full, love you auntie Jezz!"
With that she was off for the garage, and her bike. It wasn't her favorite mode of transportation. It played havoc on the hair, and left one highly exposed, but when you wanted to get somewhere fast, it was the way to go. Hopefully there weren't too many squished bug remains on her clothes when she got to school. They were her truly least favorite part.
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Verity sat behind the wheel of her beloved Quattroporte - a car she had saved a long time to be able to buy - listening to the ever-constant sound of her hazard lights flashing. Her mind was concentrated on something else completely though. She was thumbing through a map, making mental note of turns she would need to make that wouldn't necessarily be marked well.
Placing the map back into the passenger seat, she gripped the steering wheel and clicked off her flashers, pulling back onto the highway, once again on the way to her final destination: Bay City.
It wasn't long before she saw the exit she had to make to be heading in the right direction, and she took it, moving quickly through the toll booth. With a smile, she got onto the main road that went straight into the heart of the city. It wasn't too long of a drive, and she could see some of the buildings looming in the distance.
'It'll be nice to settle down here and write some more music. I think I picked a nice place to stay at...' she thought, glancing towards the water in the distance. With a grin, she continued down the road, eventually coming into the main part of the city. As she drove down the main road, she couldn't help but glance at all the people that seemed to be milling about. It sure was a popular place...
And that's when her eye landed on a cafe that was situated not too far in the distance. It was at that moment that her stomach decided to growl. She could almost feel the sheepish grin that came to her face; though there was no one to see it or hear her stomach, she felt embarrassed enough because she had been on the road all night and into the morning. Sleeping in her car at a rest stop wasn't the greatest of things she could have done for her back, but it was efficient enough and served its purpose. She just hadn't had anything to eat in the morning, which was now presenting itself. It was only right - since she was now back in civilization and no longer on the highway - for her to be noticing all the people walking around with on-the-go type foods. And it was only right for her to notice that cafe.
Pulling around into the parking lot, she killed the engine of her car, before using her vanity mirror to look at her reflection. "Well, you look fine enough" she muttered to herself, before slipping on her sunglasses and adjusting her hat. Her fingers found their way to the handle of the door, and her body found itself soon outside of the car, adjusting her Victorian inspired dress slightly. It was a nice blue color, matching her hat relatively well.
Moments later, she was grabbing the handle to the cafe door and letting herself in, noticing an open table right near the window. She took a seat, just to sort of stake her claim on the spot', before glancing over at the menu which was posted above the place where you could order. Smiling, she read the list over slowly, making sure she didn't skip over anything, before deciding on simply getting a toasted bagel and some hot tea. She stood from the table, and made her way to the front. It didn't take too long for her to place her order and pay, and then she took the number she had been given and went back to the table she had been sitting at.
Cracking her knuckles slightly, she placed her clutch on the top of the table. Her eyes wandered about the room, taking everything in, while still being hidden by her shades. Apparently, this was the place to hang out, because there were quite a number of people here. A few students even, she noted, glancing at the clock on the wall. She wasn't quite sure when their school started, but she figured it was soon. A larger group of students made their way out, but it wasn't long before they were replaced by adults who were on their way to work and needed breakfast, or a quick coffee.
Placing the map back into the passenger seat, she gripped the steering wheel and clicked off her flashers, pulling back onto the highway, once again on the way to her final destination: Bay City.
It wasn't long before she saw the exit she had to make to be heading in the right direction, and she took it, moving quickly through the toll booth. With a smile, she got onto the main road that went straight into the heart of the city. It wasn't too long of a drive, and she could see some of the buildings looming in the distance.
'It'll be nice to settle down here and write some more music. I think I picked a nice place to stay at...' she thought, glancing towards the water in the distance. With a grin, she continued down the road, eventually coming into the main part of the city. As she drove down the main road, she couldn't help but glance at all the people that seemed to be milling about. It sure was a popular place...
And that's when her eye landed on a cafe that was situated not too far in the distance. It was at that moment that her stomach decided to growl. She could almost feel the sheepish grin that came to her face; though there was no one to see it or hear her stomach, she felt embarrassed enough because she had been on the road all night and into the morning. Sleeping in her car at a rest stop wasn't the greatest of things she could have done for her back, but it was efficient enough and served its purpose. She just hadn't had anything to eat in the morning, which was now presenting itself. It was only right - since she was now back in civilization and no longer on the highway - for her to be noticing all the people walking around with on-the-go type foods. And it was only right for her to notice that cafe.
Pulling around into the parking lot, she killed the engine of her car, before using her vanity mirror to look at her reflection. "Well, you look fine enough" she muttered to herself, before slipping on her sunglasses and adjusting her hat. Her fingers found their way to the handle of the door, and her body found itself soon outside of the car, adjusting her Victorian inspired dress slightly. It was a nice blue color, matching her hat relatively well.
Moments later, she was grabbing the handle to the cafe door and letting herself in, noticing an open table right near the window. She took a seat, just to sort of stake her claim on the spot', before glancing over at the menu which was posted above the place where you could order. Smiling, she read the list over slowly, making sure she didn't skip over anything, before deciding on simply getting a toasted bagel and some hot tea. She stood from the table, and made her way to the front. It didn't take too long for her to place her order and pay, and then she took the number she had been given and went back to the table she had been sitting at.
Cracking her knuckles slightly, she placed her clutch on the top of the table. Her eyes wandered about the room, taking everything in, while still being hidden by her shades. Apparently, this was the place to hang out, because there were quite a number of people here. A few students even, she noted, glancing at the clock on the wall. She wasn't quite sure when their school started, but she figured it was soon. A larger group of students made their way out, but it wasn't long before they were replaced by adults who were on their way to work and needed breakfast, or a quick coffee.
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As the plane taxied down the runway it's occupants stretched and dragged themselves from sleep in preparation to leave. Christopher Clyclax however, was already awake and ready to get up and head out for a day. He looked around at the passengers rousing themselves and their travel party; bleary-eyed and jetlagged, and smiled. He could remember the days when travel was a chore and put a strain on his body. But now it was an everyday part of his work. He could handle a 20 hour flight with no problem. There was no longer any planning, no analysing the flight duration and time differences to adapt his sleeping pattern, he could work it out in a heartbeat. He'd awoken a few hours earlier, feeling as fresh as ever and ready to take on a day. He was prepared and dressed appropriately; a well fitting, light, green tee-shirt with a large collar, light, denim jeans and a pair of navy, walking shoes, also light. He knew it was a warm place and also knew that he'd be spending the best part of the day on his feet for one reason or another.
The journey through airport security was uneventful and within ten minutes he was outside signalling a cab, luggage in tow and notepad in hand.
"The Royal Hotel, Old Town please," he recited from his notes as he climbed into the back seat. He recieved a quizzical look from the driver in the rearview mirror who then began a traditional interrogation which only taxi drivers can get away with on a daily basis.
"You just arrived, yeah? What you headin' there for?" This first question sparked a conversation that lasted the entire journey and explained Christopher's work. It also bore the fruit of local knowledge and by the time the car pulled up outside the old building another two pages of notes had been added to his almost sacred documents.
With the fare paid, a generous tip thrown in and wishes of best luck either way, Chris set off up to the front door, stopping only to take a snap of his abode for the next fornight. He'd actually only heard of the place by chance; a female customer looking for a weekend in Bruge just happened to have been to Bay City, where he was planning his next business trip, and they got talking. In the end the woman left with a great deal and Chris was left with some information on places to stay. One good turn deserves another. It was this thought that he held in his mind as he approached the front door, shortly to be followed by How on Earth did she find this place and decide to stay here? It wasn't that the place looked bad, on the contrary, it looked full of character, rustic and in a great part of town. It was everything he loved about a different kind of holiday, but his view was often different to a lot of people.
As he pushed open the door he was taken over by an exhilaration he was all too familiar with. His 'business trip' had officially started. And he had a feeling it was going to be one of the best ever. Despite mixed reviews from people who vacationed here, Chris had been intrigued by the city, almost obsessed his brother had told him, since first gathering information about it. And now he was here and he was more than ready to make the most of it. He had no particular plan at hand but held a wealth of information concerning various places of interest inside his jacket pocket.
He crossed the threshold with a wide grin that he simply couldn't help. He let his eyes scan the lobby and take in the old styling of arcitecture and decoration. It may have been a little run down, but he was never one to judge before experience. It was still unknown to him that the hotel was not officially in business. One would not have judged that by the sounds of life and the smell of pancakes emanating from the rooms nearby. The front desk was deserted so the travel agent made his way forward, dragging his wheeled suitcase along behind him, and stood there, craning his neck to glimpse into as many corners as he could.
"Hello?" He called out, wondering why the building was so empty. "HELLO?" He tried louder, guessing his inital volume would not reach far enough, and he raised his camera again to take a quick picture of the stairway before scribbling a few notes in his pad and replacing all items to where they belonged about his person.
The journey through airport security was uneventful and within ten minutes he was outside signalling a cab, luggage in tow and notepad in hand.
"The Royal Hotel, Old Town please," he recited from his notes as he climbed into the back seat. He recieved a quizzical look from the driver in the rearview mirror who then began a traditional interrogation which only taxi drivers can get away with on a daily basis.
"You just arrived, yeah? What you headin' there for?" This first question sparked a conversation that lasted the entire journey and explained Christopher's work. It also bore the fruit of local knowledge and by the time the car pulled up outside the old building another two pages of notes had been added to his almost sacred documents.
With the fare paid, a generous tip thrown in and wishes of best luck either way, Chris set off up to the front door, stopping only to take a snap of his abode for the next fornight. He'd actually only heard of the place by chance; a female customer looking for a weekend in Bruge just happened to have been to Bay City, where he was planning his next business trip, and they got talking. In the end the woman left with a great deal and Chris was left with some information on places to stay. One good turn deserves another. It was this thought that he held in his mind as he approached the front door, shortly to be followed by How on Earth did she find this place and decide to stay here? It wasn't that the place looked bad, on the contrary, it looked full of character, rustic and in a great part of town. It was everything he loved about a different kind of holiday, but his view was often different to a lot of people.
As he pushed open the door he was taken over by an exhilaration he was all too familiar with. His 'business trip' had officially started. And he had a feeling it was going to be one of the best ever. Despite mixed reviews from people who vacationed here, Chris had been intrigued by the city, almost obsessed his brother had told him, since first gathering information about it. And now he was here and he was more than ready to make the most of it. He had no particular plan at hand but held a wealth of information concerning various places of interest inside his jacket pocket.
He crossed the threshold with a wide grin that he simply couldn't help. He let his eyes scan the lobby and take in the old styling of arcitecture and decoration. It may have been a little run down, but he was never one to judge before experience. It was still unknown to him that the hotel was not officially in business. One would not have judged that by the sounds of life and the smell of pancakes emanating from the rooms nearby. The front desk was deserted so the travel agent made his way forward, dragging his wheeled suitcase along behind him, and stood there, craning his neck to glimpse into as many corners as he could.
"Hello?" He called out, wondering why the building was so empty. "HELLO?" He tried louder, guessing his inital volume would not reach far enough, and he raised his camera again to take a quick picture of the stairway before scribbling a few notes in his pad and replacing all items to where they belonged about his person.
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Guy still held a hand against the bulging cupboard door when Ariana appeared.
"Good morning Ariana!" Maria chimed happily, waving at the girl as she entered. She took a mouthful of the pancakes and Guy frowned. "You're looking lovely this morning." At thirty two years of age, Maria liked to theink she could still have passed for the girl's sister, with her light brown hair styled in a short 'pixie' cut. She retained the family's characteristic rounded features. More 'pretty' than beautiful. She self consciously smoothed out her clothes across her lap and belly, a long green summer dress that flowed down to her ankles, tapering in at the waist slightly to emphasize her slim frame. Maria played absent mindedly with one of her large earrings that dangled from her lobes.
"Morning." Guy greeted his sister, leaning as casually against the door as he could manage. He listened to her, cocking an eyebrow and pouting in obvious puzzlement as she spoke. He watched the girl wolf down her serving like a pro.
Yep, we're definitely related.
"I've never known you to be so eager for school..." He said, squinting slightly with a furrowed brow as he examined her closely. "Wait. There's something going on here. Something different..." While he was still oblivious to the girl's extracurricular antics he could tell something wasn't right. He was just never sure what. He looked at her sidelong, as though examining the girl from multiple angles would revela the truth, or perhaps convince her to cave in and tell him directly. "You've done something... with your... hair?" He grasped at straws.
He waited for the cupboard's contents to settle before edging away cautiously on tiptoes. He heard someone call from out in the hallway and poked his head out the doorway.
"Hello?" He replied to the man. "Can I help you?" He approached with a friendly smile, hands tucked lazily into his pockets.
***
Sara brought Verity her order, setting it down in front of the girl with a smile. A thought struck her and while for a moment she resisted the urge to say it aloud she had never been too good at suppressing such things.
"Say. This might sound pretty strange, but do I know you? I'm sure I've seen you around..." She tapped her lips with her index finger as she tried to place the girl's face. "Or someone similar."
"Good morning Ariana!" Maria chimed happily, waving at the girl as she entered. She took a mouthful of the pancakes and Guy frowned. "You're looking lovely this morning." At thirty two years of age, Maria liked to theink she could still have passed for the girl's sister, with her light brown hair styled in a short 'pixie' cut. She retained the family's characteristic rounded features. More 'pretty' than beautiful. She self consciously smoothed out her clothes across her lap and belly, a long green summer dress that flowed down to her ankles, tapering in at the waist slightly to emphasize her slim frame. Maria played absent mindedly with one of her large earrings that dangled from her lobes.
"Morning." Guy greeted his sister, leaning as casually against the door as he could manage. He listened to her, cocking an eyebrow and pouting in obvious puzzlement as she spoke. He watched the girl wolf down her serving like a pro.
Yep, we're definitely related.
"I've never known you to be so eager for school..." He said, squinting slightly with a furrowed brow as he examined her closely. "Wait. There's something going on here. Something different..." While he was still oblivious to the girl's extracurricular antics he could tell something wasn't right. He was just never sure what. He looked at her sidelong, as though examining the girl from multiple angles would revela the truth, or perhaps convince her to cave in and tell him directly. "You've done something... with your... hair?" He grasped at straws.
He waited for the cupboard's contents to settle before edging away cautiously on tiptoes. He heard someone call from out in the hallway and poked his head out the doorway.
"Hello?" He replied to the man. "Can I help you?" He approached with a friendly smile, hands tucked lazily into his pockets.
***
Sara brought Verity her order, setting it down in front of the girl with a smile. A thought struck her and while for a moment she resisted the urge to say it aloud she had never been too good at suppressing such things.
"Say. This might sound pretty strange, but do I know you? I'm sure I've seen you around..." She tapped her lips with her index finger as she tried to place the girl's face. "Or someone similar."
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Ariana stopped eating long enough to consider her hair. She stared up, as if trying to look at the back of her head, but for obvious reasons she couldn't see it and there was a bizarre lack of mirrors in this room. She needed at least three to appreciate the messy bun she had spent ten minutes perfecting. It was so much harder to make than a neat bun, but those looked so prudish, like something her aunt should have been wearing at her advanced age, not something for a seventeen-year old. She tried to look carefree. Carefree was a good new adjective for her to try on.
Her brother stepped away and so she determined that the conversation was over. It wasn't that she wasn't going to go to school--she had Kenzie to meet, after all--it's just that she wasn't sure if she would stay there past homeroom. Though when she thought of it, getting all the way to homeroom and seeing all those rather stupid faces and then leaving only to use up an absence was sort of the worst of all worlds. Well, she had to meet Kenzie. Maybe she wouldn't go to homeroom. Or maybe she would just plow through the day. It couldn't possibly be so terrible today. It was the start of a new week after all!
She wiped her face free of syrup and took out her compact. There was a difference between carefree and careless, after all. "What's on your agenda today, auntie?" she asked as she applied another layer of lip gloss and licked it away. If only candy cane weren't so opaque she wouldn't have to lick half of it off, she told herself. As Maria opened her mouth to respond, Ariana wished she hadn't asked the woman anything so open-ended. She would definitely be late if her aunt gave one of her typical responses. "Hold that thought a moment," she said and rushed to her bedroom to grab her book bag and a notepad about the size of a cell phone. She couldn't afford one of her own and Guy had flatly denied paying for hers, overprotective as he so often was.
"Uh huh, right. Right. Oh," she said into the notepad as she came back down the stairs, making sure it was hidden behind the unbunned part of her hair and some extra flouncy decorations on her book bag. They were atrocious, but today they served a purpose. Ariana waved at her aunt with her free hand as she headed out the door. "Tell the little ones I'll see them at school. Bye, auntie! Bye, Guy!"
She almost dropped the notepad-faux-cellphone when she saw the stranger in the foyer. Were they ready for actual guests? How had he found them? There was something charming about him, if old. She looked back at the kitchen and her thoughts turned toward matchmaking before remembering school. There was always school. She ran to the old carriage house and got the bicycle she had recently convinced a boy to let her borrow--those boys would let you borrow anything if you were nice to them--and then it was off to school.
Her brother stepped away and so she determined that the conversation was over. It wasn't that she wasn't going to go to school--she had Kenzie to meet, after all--it's just that she wasn't sure if she would stay there past homeroom. Though when she thought of it, getting all the way to homeroom and seeing all those rather stupid faces and then leaving only to use up an absence was sort of the worst of all worlds. Well, she had to meet Kenzie. Maybe she wouldn't go to homeroom. Or maybe she would just plow through the day. It couldn't possibly be so terrible today. It was the start of a new week after all!
She wiped her face free of syrup and took out her compact. There was a difference between carefree and careless, after all. "What's on your agenda today, auntie?" she asked as she applied another layer of lip gloss and licked it away. If only candy cane weren't so opaque she wouldn't have to lick half of it off, she told herself. As Maria opened her mouth to respond, Ariana wished she hadn't asked the woman anything so open-ended. She would definitely be late if her aunt gave one of her typical responses. "Hold that thought a moment," she said and rushed to her bedroom to grab her book bag and a notepad about the size of a cell phone. She couldn't afford one of her own and Guy had flatly denied paying for hers, overprotective as he so often was.
"Uh huh, right. Right. Oh," she said into the notepad as she came back down the stairs, making sure it was hidden behind the unbunned part of her hair and some extra flouncy decorations on her book bag. They were atrocious, but today they served a purpose. Ariana waved at her aunt with her free hand as she headed out the door. "Tell the little ones I'll see them at school. Bye, auntie! Bye, Guy!"
She almost dropped the notepad-faux-cellphone when she saw the stranger in the foyer. Were they ready for actual guests? How had he found them? There was something charming about him, if old. She looked back at the kitchen and her thoughts turned toward matchmaking before remembering school. There was always school. She ran to the old carriage house and got the bicycle she had recently convinced a boy to let her borrow--those boys would let you borrow anything if you were nice to them--and then it was off to school.
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Chris was just about to lean an elbow on the front desk when a casual-looking man emerged from nearby. He straightened himself up so sharply it must have looked like he was up to something suspicious. It was a force of habit, he never greeted anyone while slouched, or even sat down. Stand straight, shake hands and smile was what his Da had always told him. And give the senile old boy his dues, it was wise advice and had got him far. Such simple things...
"Hi there!" He strolled towards the stranger, leaving his luggage stood behind him, and reached out a hand with a goofy grin plastered on his face. He was still excited about being here and he knew he wouldn't stop smiling for the day if he didn't calm himself down. "My name's Chris Cyclax, I would have called ahead but for the life of me I couldn't find a phone number for the place. Made me want to stay all the more, there's a certain charm about getting something that seems a little out of reach and my oh my, am I glad I got here! This place is wonderful Sir, just wonderful." He couldn't help but ramble. If the man, who he presumed to be the owner because staff would be dressed a little smarter he guessed, would let him, Chris could talk all day. And more than likely all night in his offhand London accent. His words seemed to clash, flowing with the ease of one who has learned to speak well but at the same time accentuating the vowels more than was necessary. His tone was airy, far from gruff and mild in pitch.
As he bobbed his way closer he could see the tired look in the other man's eyes but was distracted for a moment by a figure darting out of the door. He guessed it was either pretty busy here or the other guests were just as enthusiastic as he was. Whatever the case he was just pleased to be here and couldn't wait to get his bag upstairs and unpacked so he could scour the city. It was by far the highlight of his year so far and the urge to forget all about work was overbearing. Even when it came to getting lunch he would have to be critical and could never quite enjoy it as much as he really wanted to. But it was his job and he was in no position to complain; it was the best job in the world as far as he was concerned.
With one hand outstretched to shake, the other dipped into his pocket to grasp his dictaphone. He would obviously ask permission to record first, but he always liked a few words from the landlord before setting off. Because who really knew the city better than someone who gets hounded by tourists on a daily basis?
"Hi there!" He strolled towards the stranger, leaving his luggage stood behind him, and reached out a hand with a goofy grin plastered on his face. He was still excited about being here and he knew he wouldn't stop smiling for the day if he didn't calm himself down. "My name's Chris Cyclax, I would have called ahead but for the life of me I couldn't find a phone number for the place. Made me want to stay all the more, there's a certain charm about getting something that seems a little out of reach and my oh my, am I glad I got here! This place is wonderful Sir, just wonderful." He couldn't help but ramble. If the man, who he presumed to be the owner because staff would be dressed a little smarter he guessed, would let him, Chris could talk all day. And more than likely all night in his offhand London accent. His words seemed to clash, flowing with the ease of one who has learned to speak well but at the same time accentuating the vowels more than was necessary. His tone was airy, far from gruff and mild in pitch.
As he bobbed his way closer he could see the tired look in the other man's eyes but was distracted for a moment by a figure darting out of the door. He guessed it was either pretty busy here or the other guests were just as enthusiastic as he was. Whatever the case he was just pleased to be here and couldn't wait to get his bag upstairs and unpacked so he could scour the city. It was by far the highlight of his year so far and the urge to forget all about work was overbearing. Even when it came to getting lunch he would have to be critical and could never quite enjoy it as much as he really wanted to. But it was his job and he was in no position to complain; it was the best job in the world as far as he was concerned.
With one hand outstretched to shake, the other dipped into his pocket to grasp his dictaphone. He would obviously ask permission to record first, but he always liked a few words from the landlord before setting off. Because who really knew the city better than someone who gets hounded by tourists on a daily basis?
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Guy shook the man's hand, noticing quickly the London accent. Though as the man continued to talk Guy felt his heart sink. The man had come to stay?
"Ah, well you see I think there may have been a slight misunderstanding." He replied, running a hand nervously through his hair as he spoke, smiling apologetically. "The hotel's not actually been running for some years now." He said. "I just bought the place recently as a place to live."
"Don't be so rude! Offer your guest a seat!" Maria called out from the kitchen and Guy felt himself sneer in irritation. The woman meant well, but she had a tendency to be very... direct. It could get quite abrasive at times. He felt her hand slap him on the back as she joined the two men. "Honestly. I apologise for my nephew. He has such bad manners. Would you like something to drink?" She smiled cheerily, ushering Christopher into the kitchen.
"Ah, well you see I think there may have been a slight misunderstanding." He replied, running a hand nervously through his hair as he spoke, smiling apologetically. "The hotel's not actually been running for some years now." He said. "I just bought the place recently as a place to live."
"Don't be so rude! Offer your guest a seat!" Maria called out from the kitchen and Guy felt himself sneer in irritation. The woman meant well, but she had a tendency to be very... direct. It could get quite abrasive at times. He felt her hand slap him on the back as she joined the two men. "Honestly. I apologise for my nephew. He has such bad manners. Would you like something to drink?" She smiled cheerily, ushering Christopher into the kitchen.
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"Not so fast!" Kenzie stopped with her hand on the doorknob at the barked command from Annabelle. Damn her aunt, she'd almost gotten away too. "We need to have a family talk. I sent Jezz to grab you, but apparently that didn't work. You're not going anywhere kiddo."
"I'm in a hurry auntie. I know, you're going out of town, you're gonna try to foist me off on Ariana's family. No guns or anything, probably not even my Derringer. What have a missed, because you know I really don't get the ban on the Derringer, it's more like a toy than an actual gun. I can forget I'm holding the thing." She turned to her aunt, eyes flashing red, but Annabelle looked on unphased. Her aunts knew her well, she could never seem to intimidate them like she could other people.
"Don't get to used to riding that bike of yours if you're intending to give me lip young lady. There's more to it than that, and you bloody well know it or you wouldn't be afraid of talking with us." Annabelle's hand went to her hip, and she cocked her head giving Kenzie the look. The one that every mother figure has, and most kids crumples under. Unfortunately in this instance, Kenzie was most kids.
"What ultimatum do you have for me this time?" Kenzie returned, head hanging as she slumped against the door. "I'm finally getting a social life what more do you want from me?" She tried to give Annabelle Jezz's puppy dog eyes, but having seen them so many times from Jezz they didn't touch Annabelle at all.
"A job, a normal job, somewhere normal teenagers work, and a boyfriend, or even a male friend. You'll meet your father someday, what would he think if you couldn't look him in the eye? What would that say about us?"
"I don't know, I don't know anything about him! I don't know where he lives, or where he is or if he's even alive! Don't bring my parents into this. I don't care if I never meet them. You, and Mirabelle, and Jezz, you're my family, you're my parents. They're just people. If they wanted me, they would be here."
"You don't know a single thing about your parents, or why they do what they do," That was Jezz, and her voice was much to cool and low for her to be anything other than furious. "But there's no talking to you right now, not when your eyes are black like that. You have a friend who's expecting you at school, go. Drive safely."
"Yeah, wouldn't want to hurt anyone would I?" Kenzie turned then, and made her way quickly to the garage, slamming on the helmet as soon as the key was in the ignition. She took a deep breath before starting the Ducati though, tried to clear her head. Why was it that mention of her parents could effect her like nothing else could? Her aunts knew it, and as such didn't talk about them much or refer to them in anyway. They made good points though, and so Kenzie started the bike, and headed toward school, one thing was for sure though, the teachers could live without her making their life miserable today. If she was going to have to make a male friend, she'd have to start getting used to them at some point. Ariana would know where to go to do that. Kenzie smiled, mood lightening. Maybe she could kidnap her, there was a spare helmet in the storage compartment after all...
Within minutes she was at the school, and saw Ariana pulling in on a bicycle. "Ariana," She called, pulling off her helmet and waving to her friend. Apparently they'd both gotten waylaid that morning. "Glad I'm not late."
"I'm in a hurry auntie. I know, you're going out of town, you're gonna try to foist me off on Ariana's family. No guns or anything, probably not even my Derringer. What have a missed, because you know I really don't get the ban on the Derringer, it's more like a toy than an actual gun. I can forget I'm holding the thing." She turned to her aunt, eyes flashing red, but Annabelle looked on unphased. Her aunts knew her well, she could never seem to intimidate them like she could other people.
"Don't get to used to riding that bike of yours if you're intending to give me lip young lady. There's more to it than that, and you bloody well know it or you wouldn't be afraid of talking with us." Annabelle's hand went to her hip, and she cocked her head giving Kenzie the look. The one that every mother figure has, and most kids crumples under. Unfortunately in this instance, Kenzie was most kids.
"What ultimatum do you have for me this time?" Kenzie returned, head hanging as she slumped against the door. "I'm finally getting a social life what more do you want from me?" She tried to give Annabelle Jezz's puppy dog eyes, but having seen them so many times from Jezz they didn't touch Annabelle at all.
"A job, a normal job, somewhere normal teenagers work, and a boyfriend, or even a male friend. You'll meet your father someday, what would he think if you couldn't look him in the eye? What would that say about us?"
"I don't know, I don't know anything about him! I don't know where he lives, or where he is or if he's even alive! Don't bring my parents into this. I don't care if I never meet them. You, and Mirabelle, and Jezz, you're my family, you're my parents. They're just people. If they wanted me, they would be here."
"You don't know a single thing about your parents, or why they do what they do," That was Jezz, and her voice was much to cool and low for her to be anything other than furious. "But there's no talking to you right now, not when your eyes are black like that. You have a friend who's expecting you at school, go. Drive safely."
"Yeah, wouldn't want to hurt anyone would I?" Kenzie turned then, and made her way quickly to the garage, slamming on the helmet as soon as the key was in the ignition. She took a deep breath before starting the Ducati though, tried to clear her head. Why was it that mention of her parents could effect her like nothing else could? Her aunts knew it, and as such didn't talk about them much or refer to them in anyway. They made good points though, and so Kenzie started the bike, and headed toward school, one thing was for sure though, the teachers could live without her making their life miserable today. If she was going to have to make a male friend, she'd have to start getting used to them at some point. Ariana would know where to go to do that. Kenzie smiled, mood lightening. Maybe she could kidnap her, there was a spare helmet in the storage compartment after all...
Within minutes she was at the school, and saw Ariana pulling in on a bicycle. "Ariana," She called, pulling off her helmet and waving to her friend. Apparently they'd both gotten waylaid that morning. "Glad I'm not late."
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At the mention of the hotel being out of business Chris felt his heart sink a little. He'd had his hopes set on the place. Something about it jsut stood out to him, perhaps it was the instant homely feeling that struck him as he stepped through the door. Now he knew that it was because the place was, in fact, a home. A stranger's home. That he had let himself into and tried to rent a room. He felt guilt settle on his mind for a moment as he absently scratched at the back of his neck in embarresment.
"I'm sorry, I didn't realise, I mean-" He was cut off by a woman striding in from the kitchen and acting as though the place were indeed a hotel, offering him a drink and almost forcing him into the kitchen.
"No, no thank you, I don't want to intrude any further. It was an honest mistake, I didn't mean to seem to rude." He felt himself starting to ramble again, for a very different reason than before, yet still felt himself being herded into the kitchen by the very welcoming Aunt. He'd seen the look on the other man's face and knew he wasn't particularly welcome but he couldn't exactly force himself out of the house, that was simply strange. And so he let himself be ushered in and stood awkwardly at the edge of the room as he fought to find the right words to express how sorry he actually was and truly stupid he actually felt.
"I'm sorry, I didn't realise, I mean-" He was cut off by a woman striding in from the kitchen and acting as though the place were indeed a hotel, offering him a drink and almost forcing him into the kitchen.
"No, no thank you, I don't want to intrude any further. It was an honest mistake, I didn't mean to seem to rude." He felt himself starting to ramble again, for a very different reason than before, yet still felt himself being herded into the kitchen by the very welcoming Aunt. He'd seen the look on the other man's face and knew he wasn't particularly welcome but he couldn't exactly force himself out of the house, that was simply strange. And so he let himself be ushered in and stood awkwardly at the edge of the room as he fought to find the right words to express how sorry he actually was and truly stupid he actually felt.
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Ariana gave her friend a wave as she pulled her bicycle into the overcrowded lot of bike posts. "I hope you're not being sarcastic. I thought I would be late. It was the oddest thing. As I was leaving, there was a man in the lobby. He wasn't bad looking, for an older guy. I guess Guy decided to let some of the extra rooms we have. As long as he isn't on the first storey, I shouldn't mind it. I don't want him to see me running around in just a towel. Can you imagine? Are you ready for Monday? I know I can't wait." She made a face that suggested that, indeed, she could wait. "We need to get to homeroom if we don't want to be late. I emphasized the 'if,' if you couldn't hear it."
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"You're not the only one," Kenzie assured her friend with a slight smile as she turned off the engine, and kicked down the stand, pocketing the keys as she listened to her friends speech. It really was amazing the sorts of things that happened for her. They were so normal, magic and danger free for the most part. Maybe her aunts were right about trying to insinuate her into the Ashton household for the duration of their time away. She could learn a lot. Plus there would be the benefit of keeping an eye on her friend more easily, in case the magic decided to be drawn to her more. Then came the real sealing point, there was a man staying there. His potential for meeting her aunts ultimatum was unlikely what with him being older and all, but still that would be one more male for her to try to get used to. If she was surrounded by them she'd have no choice really.
"You too huh?" She asked, grinning as Ariana made it very clear that she really didn't want to go to class. "I'm feeling a little like ditching myself to be honest. I got this really nasty ultimatum from my aunts this morning. I don't even know what they're intending to do if I don't meet their demands," She shook her head. "Let's go somewhere fun, be horribly irresponsible, and anyone but ourselves for a few hours," Kenzie paused for a moment, and then pulled out her credit card. "Let's go shopping! I have another helmet, have you ever been on a motorcycle before? I'm a really careful driver."
"You too huh?" She asked, grinning as Ariana made it very clear that she really didn't want to go to class. "I'm feeling a little like ditching myself to be honest. I got this really nasty ultimatum from my aunts this morning. I don't even know what they're intending to do if I don't meet their demands," She shook her head. "Let's go somewhere fun, be horribly irresponsible, and anyone but ourselves for a few hours," Kenzie paused for a moment, and then pulled out her credit card. "Let's go shopping! I have another helmet, have you ever been on a motorcycle before? I'm a really careful driver."
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"Ooh, let's!" Ariana agreed. Her eyes might as well have been gold doubloons the way she eyed Kenzie's credit card, but she reined herself in. She was no longer the type to waste her money on frivolous purchases. There was no harm in window shopping, though, especially not if she found something great and not at all frivolous. "We should go quickly though. I don't want my brothers or sister to see me. I think Guy is starting to catch on to my excess of study halls. But this would be worth it. A motorbike, truancy, and shopping all at once? It's thrilling."
She took the helmet that Kenzie proffered and put it on, glad again that she had opted for an already messy bun that she could easily fit beneath the rigid rim. "What's this about an ultimatum? Your aunts sound terribly domineering. I shouldn't thrive under those conditions. I'm a free spirit now, in case I hadn't told you. It's very, well, freeing."
She took the helmet that Kenzie proffered and put it on, glad again that she had opted for an already messy bun that she could easily fit beneath the rigid rim. "What's this about an ultimatum? Your aunts sound terribly domineering. I shouldn't thrive under those conditions. I'm a free spirit now, in case I hadn't told you. It's very, well, freeing."
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It wasn't too terribly long before Verity noticed a pretty woman bringing her order over. A smile grew on her face as she sat up slightly, placing her clutch in her lap instead of on the table. The woman placed her toasted bagel in front of her, as well as the steaming cup of tea she had ordered. She let out a light "thank you" as the lady stood up slightly, but the woman paused, and Verity's "disguise" mind set turned itself into 'on' mode almost instantaneously.
"Say," the woman began, and Verity turned her head to look at her, a smile on her face, though her eyes were still hidden by the shades. "This might sound pretty strange, but do I know you? I'm sure I've seen you around..." The woman held a quizzical stance, her forefinger tapping lightly against her lips. "Or someone similar..." she ended, and Verity let out a rehearsed laugh.
"Funny enough, I get that quite a lot. I think I just have a common face" she said, her teeth showing in a smile. It was a line she had used numerous times, and it had almost become second nature to her.
But it was anything other than that. She had had instances where people who knew of her had recognized her through her 'disguise', but she always tried to play the "I-have-no-idea-what-you're-talking-about" card at first.
She hoped that maybe this woman wasn't someone who would recognize her. At least, she hoped she wasn't someone who would freak out if she did recognize her. She was here for some time off from her work, and to write new music. She didn't want the whole city knowing about it if they didn't have to. At least, for as long as that was possible.
Which reminded her...
She was here. In Bay City. Here to write some new songs. Here to relax. Which meant she needed a place to relax at. She needed a place to write songs at.
"Actually," she began, her hands finding their way to the hot cup of tea. She smiled slightly at the added warmth, before looking back over at the woman who had brought her order over. "I know this is way off topic, but you wouldn't happen to know of any hotels or places in the area that have long-term stays available? Somewhere... that might remind you of being home, you know?" She wasn't about to offer up too much information right off the bat, but maybe the woman would have an answer for her without any inquiries.
One could only help but hope.
"Say," the woman began, and Verity turned her head to look at her, a smile on her face, though her eyes were still hidden by the shades. "This might sound pretty strange, but do I know you? I'm sure I've seen you around..." The woman held a quizzical stance, her forefinger tapping lightly against her lips. "Or someone similar..." she ended, and Verity let out a rehearsed laugh.
"Funny enough, I get that quite a lot. I think I just have a common face" she said, her teeth showing in a smile. It was a line she had used numerous times, and it had almost become second nature to her.
But it was anything other than that. She had had instances where people who knew of her had recognized her through her 'disguise', but she always tried to play the "I-have-no-idea-what-you're-talking-about" card at first.
She hoped that maybe this woman wasn't someone who would recognize her. At least, she hoped she wasn't someone who would freak out if she did recognize her. She was here for some time off from her work, and to write new music. She didn't want the whole city knowing about it if they didn't have to. At least, for as long as that was possible.
Which reminded her...
She was here. In Bay City. Here to write some new songs. Here to relax. Which meant she needed a place to relax at. She needed a place to write songs at.
"Actually," she began, her hands finding their way to the hot cup of tea. She smiled slightly at the added warmth, before looking back over at the woman who had brought her order over. "I know this is way off topic, but you wouldn't happen to know of any hotels or places in the area that have long-term stays available? Somewhere... that might remind you of being home, you know?" She wasn't about to offer up too much information right off the bat, but maybe the woman would have an answer for her without any inquiries.
One could only help but hope.
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"Of course," Kenzie agreed, she didn't want to get caught playing truant either. "If you see anything that you want feel free to let me know. I have a bit of a savings account, and I don't spend money all that often. What's the fun of shopping if you don't have something to bring home to show for it after all?" Well, she personally wouldn't know. She never really went shopping the way that most girls did. She went in knowing what she wanted, found her size, and was done and over with it just that quickly and easily. She pulled her own helmet back on as Ariana put on her spare, the better for not being recognized, and turned the bike out of it's current space.
"They're not that bad really," She amended, feeling the need to stick up for them. She did love her aunts after all, they were the only real family she had. "There was just a work related accident a while back, and I was in the hospital for a decent chunk of time. They're worried about me. It started with them firing me. I'm glad that you're choosing to let go of what those morons think of you though. You're so much better than they'll ever be. We can talk more at the mall," She suggested as Ariana slipped onto the bike. "You might want to hold on, I may drive carefully, but that doesn't mean I go slow."
She started out then, watching carefully to avoid the students they were leaving behind, and because one or two of the teachers would recognize her bike. Then they were on the road, and she let the engine open up a bit. The feel of the wind whipping past, was exhilarating. Knowing that she was doing something she'd never done before, something wholly irresponsible was very freeing. A giddy laugh bubbled out of her throat, but she cut if off quickly. Ariana was definitely onto something with that free spirit idea of hers.
"They're not that bad really," She amended, feeling the need to stick up for them. She did love her aunts after all, they were the only real family she had. "There was just a work related accident a while back, and I was in the hospital for a decent chunk of time. They're worried about me. It started with them firing me. I'm glad that you're choosing to let go of what those morons think of you though. You're so much better than they'll ever be. We can talk more at the mall," She suggested as Ariana slipped onto the bike. "You might want to hold on, I may drive carefully, but that doesn't mean I go slow."
She started out then, watching carefully to avoid the students they were leaving behind, and because one or two of the teachers would recognize her bike. Then they were on the road, and she let the engine open up a bit. The feel of the wind whipping past, was exhilarating. Knowing that she was doing something she'd never done before, something wholly irresponsible was very freeing. A giddy laugh bubbled out of her throat, but she cut if off quickly. Ariana was definitely onto something with that free spirit idea of hers.
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Ariana held tight around Kenzie's waist as they peeled out of the parking lot. "You aren't lying about going fast," Ariana said, shutting her eyes against the wind. "Where do you want to go? The Quays? They have a good range of shops there. Or we could go to the beach. Whoa!" Kenzie took a turn that had Ariana holding on even tighter. "We don't have to go tanning. We can do the boardwalk, most of which is covered."
Something flew into Ariana's mouth. "I should stop talking until we've arrived." Instead, she focused on the passing scenery. Riding at motorcycle speeds around town gave her a slightly different view from her own trips through the center on her bicycle. They turned onto a street lined with sleek new storefronts covering old gothic structures. It looked different, as if she'd never been down this street before. There seemed to be something causing traffic to slow up ahead. Ariana took their slowing down as an opportunity to talk again. "Can you make sure we avoid Old Town? I don't want Guy to catch me. Who could possibly know where he's working today? Say, where are we?"
Something flew into Ariana's mouth. "I should stop talking until we've arrived." Instead, she focused on the passing scenery. Riding at motorcycle speeds around town gave her a slightly different view from her own trips through the center on her bicycle. They turned onto a street lined with sleek new storefronts covering old gothic structures. It looked different, as if she'd never been down this street before. There seemed to be something causing traffic to slow up ahead. Ariana took their slowing down as an opportunity to talk again. "Can you make sure we avoid Old Town? I don't want Guy to catch me. Who could possibly know where he's working today? Say, where are we?"
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"Now then, what would you like to drink?" Maria asked, sitting Chris down at the table forcibly. Guy just shrugged at the man, sharing a sympathetic look. Going against his aunt was a losing proposition at the best of times.
"Make mine a green tea." Guy said, leaning back in his chair.
"I wasn't talking to you." The woman fixed him with a fearsome look, setting a cup in front of Christopher. "So what brings you to Bay City then, Mr..." Maria sat down, smiling politely.
***
Sara shrugged at the woman's answer. "I suppose that must be it." Yes. Just one of those faces. "I know someone with the same sort of problem." She said. "He's always getting mistaken for other people." She smiled, thinking back on the numerous cases of mistaken identity that had plagued Guy since his arrival. "Is there anything else I can get you?" She asked.
"I know this is way off topic, but you wouldn't happen to know of any hotels or places in the area that have long-term stays available? Somewhere... that might remind you of being home, you know?"
"Hmmm." Sara stopped to think, humming to herself as she tapped her cheek. "Well there are plenty of hotels around here, but it doesn't sound like that's quite what you're looking for." She said before her face lit up. "Why not try looking for a room to rent? There should be something around here."
"Make mine a green tea." Guy said, leaning back in his chair.
"I wasn't talking to you." The woman fixed him with a fearsome look, setting a cup in front of Christopher. "So what brings you to Bay City then, Mr..." Maria sat down, smiling politely.
***
Sara shrugged at the woman's answer. "I suppose that must be it." Yes. Just one of those faces. "I know someone with the same sort of problem." She said. "He's always getting mistaken for other people." She smiled, thinking back on the numerous cases of mistaken identity that had plagued Guy since his arrival. "Is there anything else I can get you?" She asked.
"I know this is way off topic, but you wouldn't happen to know of any hotels or places in the area that have long-term stays available? Somewhere... that might remind you of being home, you know?"
"Hmmm." Sara stopped to think, humming to herself as she tapped her cheek. "Well there are plenty of hotels around here, but it doesn't sound like that's quite what you're looking for." She said before her face lit up. "Why not try looking for a room to rent? There should be something around here."
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There was no way he could get himself away, the woman sat Chris down before he could object again and asked what he'd like to drink. About to object again, he clocked a glance from the other man that said don't bother and he gave in.
"A cup of tea would be lovely" he replied, feeling a pang of guilt as the slightly crazy aunt denied the owner his green tea and he went to stand again but was blocked by the woman placing a cup in front of him and continuing to ask questions.
"Err, Chris, just Chris please. And it's business actually. Well, sort of." He'd had to explain this so many times and could recite the words in his sleep on any other day. Today though, he was feeling almost more awkward than he ever had before and struggled to explain himself.
"I'm a travel agent, you see, me and my brother set up an office. We travel, well I travel, to popular destinations to gather information on a more personal level so we can give a little more to the customer than your average travel agent. But that's not to say I don't take the time to enjoy my visits."
He gave a goofy grin before trying to switch the conversation around. He felt like an intruder and here he was being given preferential treatment over the woman's brother. "So, if this place isn't a hotel anymore then what do you do with the space?"
"A cup of tea would be lovely" he replied, feeling a pang of guilt as the slightly crazy aunt denied the owner his green tea and he went to stand again but was blocked by the woman placing a cup in front of him and continuing to ask questions.
"Err, Chris, just Chris please. And it's business actually. Well, sort of." He'd had to explain this so many times and could recite the words in his sleep on any other day. Today though, he was feeling almost more awkward than he ever had before and struggled to explain himself.
"I'm a travel agent, you see, me and my brother set up an office. We travel, well I travel, to popular destinations to gather information on a more personal level so we can give a little more to the customer than your average travel agent. But that's not to say I don't take the time to enjoy my visits."
He gave a goofy grin before trying to switch the conversation around. He felt like an intruder and here he was being given preferential treatment over the woman's brother. "So, if this place isn't a hotel anymore then what do you do with the space?"
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What Ariana was saying was lost to Kenzie in the wind and the purr of the engine. A decidedly loud purr, but like all her other toys, her bike was well cared for and did indeed purr in a mechanical sort of way. She wasn't really sure where she was going at the moment, just out enjoying a ride, trying to get and stay away from the school. Trying to forget. It wasn't until traffic began to slow that she could clearly hear her friend, and she was pretty sure that she would have to disappoint her. There was something in the road ahead, a detour.
"Avoiding Old Town may not be an option," She shot back over her shoulder. "But as long as you've got that helmet on and your visor down, he shouldn't recognize you. Besides, he'll probably be a little busy with my aunts. They seem to think I need a babysitter while their out of town," She sighed as traffic ground to a halt, and she stood up for a moment trying to see what was happening. "As for where we are, this is where I usually do my shopping. There are a few less than well known shops around here that have some really interesting and colorful styles. Then again they might not be your thing," Kenzie frowned as she thought about the stores that she visited, full of period garb and steel, some of it battle ready. "Maybe shopping wasn't the best idea. We're kids playing hookie, we'll come up with something."
As if the words had summoned just that something, Kenzie saw what was holding up traffic, a gargoyle was in the road, seeming to have fallen from it's usual perch up on the facade of one of the older buildings in this neighborhood. It didn't appear to be damaged, but a real gargoyle would have survived that fall anyway, it couldn't have been more than a few hundred feet and being a magical stone being had to have some perks. No, the truely disturbing thing was that where that gargoyle had been was something else, and it wasn't a gargoyle. What it was, she couldn't really tell at this distance, but a large dark mass like that... She wasn't sure she wanted to meet what could cast a gargoyle from it's perch. "Not today!" She moaned as they drew ever closer to the gargoyle.
***
Jezz looked at the phone, and the number that they'd gotten from the school. She really didn't understand exactly why it was that she always got stuck with things like this, but her she was anyway. Maybe it was because she was the youngest, maybe it was because she was the best with men. It didn't matter to her thought, they were nymphs for Goddess sake. If they couldn't wrap a human around their finger, then they were a disgrace to their kind. She sighed. At least she wasn't the one passing on updates about Kenzie this time, that hadn't been any fun at all since she'd been in the hospital. She'd half expected Hlazzbharen or Serraphina to show up on their door steps and haul them out back for a betting dangerous to their child or no. She shuddered just thinking about it. Best just to call this human boy and get it over with quickly, then she could hide from the randomness of her mind in caffeine induced euphoria.
She dialed, and waited for the phone to pick up, but not for a response. "Hiya! My name is Jezzebelle Metzer. I'm Kenzie's aunt, she and your sister are friends. I was hoping that you could do something for me, it's nothing all that big, and of course any expense that is created by it we'll cover completely." There, theoretically she'd said just enough to make him curious, but little enough to keep him confused. Those could both be vital to her getting her way, and she very much wanted to get her way. That said, she waited.
"Avoiding Old Town may not be an option," She shot back over her shoulder. "But as long as you've got that helmet on and your visor down, he shouldn't recognize you. Besides, he'll probably be a little busy with my aunts. They seem to think I need a babysitter while their out of town," She sighed as traffic ground to a halt, and she stood up for a moment trying to see what was happening. "As for where we are, this is where I usually do my shopping. There are a few less than well known shops around here that have some really interesting and colorful styles. Then again they might not be your thing," Kenzie frowned as she thought about the stores that she visited, full of period garb and steel, some of it battle ready. "Maybe shopping wasn't the best idea. We're kids playing hookie, we'll come up with something."
As if the words had summoned just that something, Kenzie saw what was holding up traffic, a gargoyle was in the road, seeming to have fallen from it's usual perch up on the facade of one of the older buildings in this neighborhood. It didn't appear to be damaged, but a real gargoyle would have survived that fall anyway, it couldn't have been more than a few hundred feet and being a magical stone being had to have some perks. No, the truely disturbing thing was that where that gargoyle had been was something else, and it wasn't a gargoyle. What it was, she couldn't really tell at this distance, but a large dark mass like that... She wasn't sure she wanted to meet what could cast a gargoyle from it's perch. "Not today!" She moaned as they drew ever closer to the gargoyle.
***
Jezz looked at the phone, and the number that they'd gotten from the school. She really didn't understand exactly why it was that she always got stuck with things like this, but her she was anyway. Maybe it was because she was the youngest, maybe it was because she was the best with men. It didn't matter to her thought, they were nymphs for Goddess sake. If they couldn't wrap a human around their finger, then they were a disgrace to their kind. She sighed. At least she wasn't the one passing on updates about Kenzie this time, that hadn't been any fun at all since she'd been in the hospital. She'd half expected Hlazzbharen or Serraphina to show up on their door steps and haul them out back for a betting dangerous to their child or no. She shuddered just thinking about it. Best just to call this human boy and get it over with quickly, then she could hide from the randomness of her mind in caffeine induced euphoria.
She dialed, and waited for the phone to pick up, but not for a response. "Hiya! My name is Jezzebelle Metzer. I'm Kenzie's aunt, she and your sister are friends. I was hoping that you could do something for me, it's nothing all that big, and of course any expense that is created by it we'll cover completely." There, theoretically she'd said just enough to make him curious, but little enough to keep him confused. Those could both be vital to her getting her way, and she very much wanted to get her way. That said, she waited.
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"Oh, how interesting!" Maria said, cradling her chin on the backs of her hands as she leaned over the table and listened to Christopher. Her voice carried a slight welsh accent that gave her words a slightly melodic quality. "Well you'll certainly find a lot to recommend here in Bay City. If you'd like I can give you a tour." She offered. Guy nodded approvingly at the man, thinking how he'd enjoyed his time travelling. It had certainly given him a lot of experience, for better or for worse, though he wondered if doing it for a job would perhaps take the enjoyment out of it.
The phone rang and Guy rocked to his feet. "I'll get it." He said, strolling lazily out into the front hall where the phone sat on a small table by one wall. He lifted the reciever to his ear and before he was able to answer a barrage of words tumbled into his ears.
"Hiya! My name is Jezzebelle Metzer. I'm Kenzie's aunt, she and your sister are friends. I was hoping that you could do something for me, it's nothing all that big, and of course any expense that is created by it we'll cover completely."
"Uh..." He raised an eyebrow, unsure of what he was getting himself into and he considered taking a tactful approach at first before his good nature overpowered his common sense. "Sure. What can I do?" He immediately regretted those words.
Back in the kitchen Maria smiled sweetly at Christopher. "Well, in that case why don't we get you settled in your room and I can get started showing you the sights!" She clapped her hands, rising to her feet and grabbing Christopher's bags.
The phone rang and Guy rocked to his feet. "I'll get it." He said, strolling lazily out into the front hall where the phone sat on a small table by one wall. He lifted the reciever to his ear and before he was able to answer a barrage of words tumbled into his ears.
"Hiya! My name is Jezzebelle Metzer. I'm Kenzie's aunt, she and your sister are friends. I was hoping that you could do something for me, it's nothing all that big, and of course any expense that is created by it we'll cover completely."
"Uh..." He raised an eyebrow, unsure of what he was getting himself into and he considered taking a tactful approach at first before his good nature overpowered his common sense. "Sure. What can I do?" He immediately regretted those words.
Back in the kitchen Maria smiled sweetly at Christopher. "Well, in that case why don't we get you settled in your room and I can get started showing you the sights!" She clapped her hands, rising to her feet and grabbing Christopher's bags.
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Ariana felt the wind die down as they slowed and then came to a rolling idle. "It is rush hour, I suppose, but among all these shops? They must be popular." She felt her old self reaching up from inside to peer out through her eyes at what made them so popular. She shook her head as they slowly passed store displays: glimpses through small windows of leather and chainlink and some awful dull black material. "Maybe you're right. Maybe shopping here isn't the best idea." These shops were anything but colorful, at least not in the way Ariana thought of color. It was surprising that a storefront as bright and cheery as Cafe Emilla was only just around the corner. Old Town was full of strange mysteries. Ariana said as much.
As they stopped behind a long row of vehicles, a young, only slightly handsome traffic warden came into view. He sported a ridiculous undersized orange felt-covered helmet that Ariana thought would look very cute on her if worn askew and with the right outfit. Yet she had never seen such an absurd ensemble. She realized what such a thought meant: she was avant-garde. She felt a swell at the calling. She had to to have that hat! "Let's talk to that officer there."
As they stopped behind a long row of vehicles, a young, only slightly handsome traffic warden came into view. He sported a ridiculous undersized orange felt-covered helmet that Ariana thought would look very cute on her if worn askew and with the right outfit. Yet she had never seen such an absurd ensemble. She realized what such a thought meant: she was avant-garde. She felt a swell at the calling. She had to to have that hat! "Let's talk to that officer there."
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Chris had intended to do what he did every other trip: Make his way around alone and get away from the major tourist hotspots every now and then. But he couldn't just say 'no' to someone kind enough to swat her brother out of the way to help out a stranger. Besides, who knew the ins and outs better than a resident of the city? A tourist guide maybe but they weren't the kind of people to take you to places that were open to personal interpretation. Monuments, skyscrapers, fine restaurants and popular locations, yeah, they were great at that. But what about the back roads? The small businesses, the secret coves, the hidden gems that really made a city? He had a feeling that there was a lot that people didn't know about Bay City and he wanted to find as much of it as he could.
He weighed it up and decided that, considering how much he already knew, he would do better to have someone helping him out.
"If it's not too much trouble, I know there's a lot of things here in Bay City that people come to see but I'm a little more interested in the ... Well, the lesser known places. Whatever you know about them would be a great help Miss..." He hadn't caught her name. He'd been here, been offered and drink and now offered a tour and he hadn't even caught the woman's name. Embarresment crept in again and he felt the colour rising in his cheeks. "I'm sorry, I missed your name..."
He watched the man get up and go to answer the phone, hoping he hadn't offended his potential tour-guide.
He weighed it up and decided that, considering how much he already knew, he would do better to have someone helping him out.
"If it's not too much trouble, I know there's a lot of things here in Bay City that people come to see but I'm a little more interested in the ... Well, the lesser known places. Whatever you know about them would be a great help Miss..." He hadn't caught her name. He'd been here, been offered and drink and now offered a tour and he hadn't even caught the woman's name. Embarresment crept in again and he felt the colour rising in his cheeks. "I'm sorry, I missed your name..."
He watched the man get up and go to answer the phone, hoping he hadn't offended his potential tour-guide.
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"I didn't give it." Maria replied. "Maria Pierce. But you can call me Maria." She said, lugging his suitcase up the stairs. Guy was still too busy on the phone to notice, standing with his back to them both as he spoke. "Now then. You'll probably hear a lot about this place being haunted." She went on, heavign the suitcase onto one of the beds. She sighed with satisfaction. "But don't let it worry you. If my cry baby of a nephew can live here without complaining then I'm sure you'll get along just fine." She grinned happily. "So. Lets get down to business. Let me show you around the neighbourhood first." She marched down the stairs as like an excitable child. "We wouldn't want you getting lost now."
Guy watched as Maria and Christopher left, waving lazily, not that Maria noticed. "Uh. See you." He muttered. "I guess." Guy shrugged, it wasn't the first time his Aunt had used his house as a restaurant and left without a word of thanks. Infact it was something of a habit of hers. He returned his attention to the conversation with Kenzie's aunt.
Guy watched as Maria and Christopher left, waving lazily, not that Maria noticed. "Uh. See you." He muttered. "I guess." Guy shrugged, it wasn't the first time his Aunt had used his house as a restaurant and left without a word of thanks. Infact it was something of a habit of hers. He returned his attention to the conversation with Kenzie's aunt.
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"Oh, here, let me take that" Chris said, stumbling forward to catch up with the woman who had comandeered his suitcase. Apparently she was fine with it and managed to carry it more successfully than he would have. She was full of life, he had to give her that much at least. He wasn't complaining, she seemed friendly and relaxed but had a sharp edge that he somehow felt even more comfortable with. It seemed more like confidence than arrogance or outright snobbery and he felt the enthusiasm radiating from her which only spurred him to want to go and explore all the more. He smiled at the mention of the place being haunted, or at least supposedly being haunted. He'd heard that, yes, it had only increased his desire to stay here.
"I'll be sure to shout you if I see a ghost." She matched his grin with one of her own and took off down the stairs, once more leaving him in the dust as she started talking again. And once more he stumbled off after her, this time with a confused look on his face as he stepped outside after her. "But, your nephew, he won't mind me leaving my stuff here?"
He winced back as the bright sun hit his eyes and he squinted up and down the street, checking out the area for the first time. He had intended to spend the next couple of hours sorting himself out, hire a car, get something to eat, unpack and maybe do a little more research before heading out but it seemed all plans had been thrown to the wind. Eddie won't be happy about this he thought. But then again, his methods weren't exactly traditional anyway, he would live with it as long as he got the information he wanted. And thinking of which, he decided he'd press his newly acquired tour guide for a quick interview when they stopped. Well, IF they stopped, he had a feeling that she'd be much like him when it came to exploring the city and he'd have trouble finding a few minutes spare.
"I'll be sure to shout you if I see a ghost." She matched his grin with one of her own and took off down the stairs, once more leaving him in the dust as she started talking again. And once more he stumbled off after her, this time with a confused look on his face as he stepped outside after her. "But, your nephew, he won't mind me leaving my stuff here?"
He winced back as the bright sun hit his eyes and he squinted up and down the street, checking out the area for the first time. He had intended to spend the next couple of hours sorting himself out, hire a car, get something to eat, unpack and maybe do a little more research before heading out but it seemed all plans had been thrown to the wind. Eddie won't be happy about this he thought. But then again, his methods weren't exactly traditional anyway, he would live with it as long as he got the information he wanted. And thinking of which, he decided he'd press his newly acquired tour guide for a quick interview when they stopped. Well, IF they stopped, he had a feeling that she'd be much like him when it came to exploring the city and he'd have trouble finding a few minutes spare.
- 85 posts here • Page 1 of 4 • 1, 2, 3, 4
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View All » Add Character » 11 Characters to follow in this universe
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Anna Ichbin
I can turn into a puppy! Don't tell the kitties though...
Joshua Levy
A starving painter every other day, a punk rocker the rest. Sundays are days where he sleeps.
Raven Zeminoba
A 19 year old, oddly clumsy yet voracious kunoichi on the hunt for her twin brother...
Verity Chrysanthe Lahey
A 22 year old musician trying to find a place to settle down and write some new music...
Ariana Ashton
A teen girl blessed by a fairy but cursed by high school
MacKenzie "Kenzie" Metzer
A strange teen with a knack for getting into places that she shouldn't, trying to figure out how to be "normal".
Guy Ashton
A young photojournalist and all round average guy.
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Joshua Levy
A starving painter every other day, a punk rocker the rest. Sundays are days where he sleeps.
Guy Ashton
A young photojournalist and all round average guy.
Verity Chrysanthe Lahey
A 22 year old musician trying to find a place to settle down and write some new music...
Anna Ichbin
I can turn into a puppy! Don't tell the kitties though...
MacKenzie "Kenzie" Metzer
A strange teen with a knack for getting into places that she shouldn't, trying to figure out how to be "normal".
Raven Zeminoba
A 19 year old, oddly clumsy yet voracious kunoichi on the hunt for her twin brother...
Ariana Ashton
A teen girl blessed by a fairy but cursed by high school
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Joshua Levy
A starving painter every other day, a punk rocker the rest. Sundays are days where he sleeps.
Ariana Ashton
A teen girl blessed by a fairy but cursed by high school
MacKenzie "Kenzie" Metzer
A strange teen with a knack for getting into places that she shouldn't, trying to figure out how to be "normal".
Guy Ashton
A young photojournalist and all round average guy.
Anna Ichbin
I can turn into a puppy! Don't tell the kitties though...
Raven Zeminoba
A 19 year old, oddly clumsy yet voracious kunoichi on the hunt for her twin brother...
Verity Chrysanthe Lahey
A 22 year old musician trying to find a place to settle down and write some new music...
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Fullscreen Chat » Create Topic » Our Future: Out of Character
Discussions
Most recent OOC posts in Our Future
Re: [OOC] Our Future
I like yo' style. -thumbs up-
As for plot progression. I don't think It'd be too bad to make something actually happen. We need a little action from time to time. -fist clench-
And hey, perhaps Ken'll bring out his gadgets.
As for plot progression. I don't think It'd be too bad to make something actually happen. We need a little action from time to time. -fist clench-
And hey, perhaps Ken'll bring out his gadgets.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
I haven't figured that out yet. I pulled it out of nowhere. The majority of the plot for this thing is rather collaborative. just figured it would be a good way to get something to happen.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
The thing that knocked the gargoyle down... But you came in after that, so it's okay that you don't know.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
It could just be the mood I'm in right now, but it seems like we could stand to have something happen to move this diner scene along a little, add a little action to it. At the same time, with some of the characters right across the street, I'm a little hesitant to write in something big, like the reemergence of the weird bat like creature. It would kind of force everyone into the same time frame, and as we're posting at different rates may cause a few issues. Then again, I could just be being overly cautious.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
Its cool. This is an RP for chilling out and having fun. Relax, take a load off and post when you feel like it.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
I apologise greatly for not being around and posting, had a manic week. Went away and was supposed to be gone for 4 days and have internet access then plans changed and I ended up away for a week with no way to get online. Gonna go through and see what's what and see if I can squeeze myself back in. Sorry again.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
Okay, that was like the crapiest post in the history of crapy posts I have made, but hey, at least introductions are out of the way.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
I had planned on her taking the notebook, actually. With proper emphasis on certain items, you can make anyone do anything you want, in terms of writing. ;D
Re: [OOC] Our Future
O.O Kenzie ruined his work... *shameface* She's not gonna be happy with herself, but I'm gonna give the others in the diner a chance to post before I go into that whole thing.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
No worries, Phoenix, and thanks for the ferry onto storytelling island. Everyone get's busy from time to time, and it just so happens that I'm not at the moment. I guess I'll fire off a post.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
Okay, so the post didn't turn out exactly how I'd intended, and sorry that it took so long, I got busy yesterday, but skawaffle, you have most definitely been dragged into interaction land. : D
Re: [OOC] Our Future
After seeing your newest post akai, I must say that I very nearly squeed. :D. It's gonna be fun to write, but to do what I've got in mind, and yes Skawaffle it will drag you into it too, I'm gonna have to wait until tomorrow. I've been up since 5:30 this morning, it's currently in the 9pm hour for me, and being both the first of the month, and a Friday, today at work was CRAZY. I want to make sure that I can do it justice, and I'm not sure my writing skills are up to it at the moment.
Re: [OOC] Our Future
Don't worry about that. I doubt I'll have a post up before work, because I have some stuff that I have to do, but I'll figure out some way to drag him into it all now that things seem to be moving along again. Do be warned, that this is a slower moving RP though, so sometimes things like this are going to happen. It's not dead, and it's not you, it's just the RP pace.
For instance the fact that he seemed to start staring at them is a good place to start I think...
For instance the fact that he seemed to start staring at them is a good place to start I think...
Re: [OOC] Our Future
Uhh, I'm not exactly sure where to jump in. Just having him walk up and start talking would be slightly awkward, and against Ken's personality somewhat... Any ideas?