Elysium Inn (Always Accepting Literate People)

[Viice]

Come satisfy desire. Come set yourself on fire.

Phoenix allowed her tongue to tease a large canine as she watched the people around her dance. Her fingers were still directing the flame to scurry about them like they were an obstacle course. She noticed the women who's head she had set aflame was walking away with her boyfriends arm around her shoulders, she had vomited not too long ago and this was clear from the condition of her shirt. Phoenix had a wicked smile as the girl turned and gave her an angry glance, mascara running down her cheeks. Sloppy... Phoenix thought to herself. She was reaching for her pocket with her free hand when she noticed a women approaching her. This stranger looked to be quite pleased about something, her eyes were on Phoenix's fireplay and she sighed a bit, bracing herself for another notorious admirer who thought she was simply doing a magic trick of some sort. Phoenix was drawing her cigarettes from her pocket now as the girl began to speak, her eyes were on the small box until she heard "fellow mage". She blinked and slowly looked up to the girl with an arched brow, an unlit cigarette hung from her lips. Before she could correct the girl she was asked if she was a disciple of....some name she definitely couldn't pronounce. Uhh....I'm sorry love but no, I don't think I'm any sort of mage, just a Pyrokinetic, at least that's what I've been told....and disciple of who now? She asked through the cigarette, keeping her eyes on this strangely clad women while the flame transferred from her fingertips to the cigarette where it faded against the tip. She inhaled against the filter and blew smoke from her nostrils.

Phoenix had not grown up being trained or taught how to use her powers, she in fact discovered them on accident. After that she lived on the streets of Liverpool with no answers to her questions of how her powers had come to be or even how to properly use them. She learned from trial and error, while she was honing her skills she had not yet developed the immunity to extreme heat and indeed burned herself all along her wrists. Years of practice had paid off however, and now she had quite an impressive hold on her skills. She had been asked to join circus's and perform at festivals but she found these routines to be humiliating, if she was going to perform it was with her drums only. All she knew about "mages" were that they were sort of like wizards, she'd seen stuff on TV but it had never occurred to her that maybe it had something to do with her gift. But aren't wizards not limited to fire only? This girl confused her, but she was clearly foreign and perhaps this meant she had answers that others did not. Here sit down, explain this mess of being a mage to me eh? She invited as she removed her cigarette from her lips and with the same hand moved her dirty paper plates to the side so they wouldn't be between the two as they spoke.

//[L]ocation: Party// [C]urrent Music: Puscifer-The Mission// [M]ood: Confused// [S]tatus: Unharmed//
[T]attoos: ex 1 ex 2//
<<<<Phoenix if she was real.

[Yoshkun]

The way the ‘silk’ pressed so delicately against Tomahi’s cheek unhinged something within Mizu's innermost thoughts, his gaze falling back to the dazed Hydra as a faint smile formed on his lips. How fortunate he was that Hydras were against the rule of Atlantis, as she would surely recognize him under his true name otherwise. That cloth was no ordinary handkerchief by any means, and a particular instance in which he had discovered this came flooding into his mind like the roar of the ocean waves pounding against the sandy shorelines.

---

Atlantis was a kingdom that no city on the stretches of land above could even hope to compare itself to, as the exquisite marble architecture and emerald sheen of rich kelp (that seemingly stretched for what seemed like forever) was something to be marveled at; if not envied. All sorts of sea creatures who heeded to the code of conduct were allowed access to this marvelous palace, as the city streets always seemed to be bustling with the most fabulous shops and entertainment. In the middle of this bountiful Eden lay the actual home of the ruling family, otherwise known as “Roiyaru Hall”. It was constructed from pure conch shell and was truly the shimmering jewel on an already illustrious crown. The Roiyaru family itself consisted of the now diseased King Neptune and Queen Hera, with their two children Princess Athena and of course; Prince Mizu. You see, it was customary for the ruling family to honor their Gods by changing their first name to the God or Goddess they held highest in their hearts. Mizu felt no connection to this tradition and therefore his father granted him a name he absolutely despised. He hated it so much that he wouldn’t have revealed it to his closest lover or his torturous captor; that’s how much Mizu truly detested the name. However, Mizu was young at this time and would soon learn how important family was to him…but for now, he could be found in his chambers. His room would put Cerano’s snooty perceptions to shame, as the lavish and absolute frivolous nature of the decorations would make the finest designers in France admit their inferiority. The walls were made up of all kinds of shiny materials humans thought not to use, portraits of their family and past relatives hung upon them. There were several things scattered about, books filled up the room mostly but there were also several scrolls which held maps of the outside world; something the prince was particularly interested in. His bed was one of the finest giant clams in the sea and usually hung open when the young prince was slumbering, as he was now. Mizu’s attire consisted of a fine silver tunic, his pants matching and of course his royal emblem, which hung from his necklace like a precious jewel. Despite all of this wealth surrounding him, Mizu cared nothing for it. He was just following what was expected of him and he knew nothing else.

His peaceful sleep lasted for what seemed like hours until he was stirred by a stern voice he was all too familiar with.”Mizu!” the voice bellowed, a low hum of anger filling the room as a young woman swam furiously through the hallway and stopped inside of the doorway; her brows furrowed and her lips pursed into a tight frown in which no man could escape. She was Athena, Mizu’s older sister and the woman who would someday rule Atlantis. Her skin had a bit more of an olive tint than Mizu’s did; her smooth turquoise locks falling daintily over her shoulders as she stared into the clam, the same cloth now consumed by the greed of Tomahi’s shadow nestled between her fingertips as she waved it furiously in the young prince’s droopy expression. Despite the very feminine curves that were shaped much like that of a thin hourglass, there was such a powerful presence to his sister. It was impossible to describe, simply a thing one would have to witness in person. Her anger was just as powerful as seen by the intensity laced within her violet orbs, probably the only matching feature between the two siblings.”I better not have heard correctly, young Mizu! They say you’ve rejected yet another marriage proposal! You have broken another mermaid’s heart! Have you no decency?! No honor?!” The ire in her tone had the prince sitting upright, his lavender locks in all directions as he tiredly tried to piece together what she was babbling on about. Mizu loved his sister like no other, in his mind, she was more of his mother than Hera could be. That wasn’t the Queen’s fault though, as her duties kept her away from her children a good portion of the year.

”B-but sister Athena! I didn’t mean to upset her! It's just...I don’t even know her! How could I possibly marry her?” He retorted, throwing his blanket aside and pulling his legs off the side so he could sit in her direction; a sign of respect.”This is not a question of knowing them! It is a matter of tradition! You can’t keep rejecting these seaweed cloths! Young women put their heart on the lines making these things…you know this.” Mizu hung his head slightly, his eyes centered on the floor beneath him. Sensing his pain, Athena lowered a knee to him and placed both hands comfortingly on his shoulders; a grin parting her rosy lips as her expression lit up like one of the many glowing lanterns lighting the outer city walls.”It will be a big step for you, Prince Mizu…but I know you can do it. There is such a hidden strength within you that you haven’t even realized yet, and when you truly find the woman who loves you just as much as I, maybe she will see it too. You will be the greatest king Atlantis has ever seen! Just you wait, Mizu. You’ll see.” She pulled him closer and into her arms, stroking his back with one hand and holding him with another; resting her head upon his soft lavender hair.”I suppose so.” He said after the two shared a long moment together of just enjoying each others presence, the conflict between them vanishing into the current of the water surrounding them.

“In the meantime, Mizu, I will leave this here for you to reflect upon. It might not be today, but the day of your ‘awakening’ will come sooner than you think.” She lightly pulled away and placed a soft kiss upon his forehead, ruffling his hair before setting the handkerchief down beside him on the bed and swimming into the hallway; leaving the prince alone with his thoughts. He sighed and glanced down at the cloth lightly tossing about in the water, picking it up and letting his thumb roll over the soft texture.”The king of Atlantis…” He muttered, closing his eyes and falling back against his cushy bedspread; continuing to rub the tissue while his mind wandered to the ever approaching question of his inevitable future. The thought consumed him until he found the comfort of sleep and escaped into his dreams once more.

---

"Meezu-suh?" The voice called out to him from the darkness, his purple orbs coming into focus as he stared down at the awakening hydra with a bright smile overtaking the sadness the memory had left him with.”Iria! You’re awake! I’m so happy you’re alright!” He didn’t have long to hold her in his arms, as the busy maid bolted upright and caused the poor imp to stumble backwards in surprise. By what he could decipher from her hurried tongue, she seemed more worried about the new girl than herself. He smiled and shook his head lightly; same ol’ Iria. He had to feel pretty good about himself, as he had helped someone he cared about and best of all...he didn’t get in trouble for leaving his desk!”Iria…you should probably take it easy. You don’t want to-“ Before he could finish speaking, a booming voice that sounded like the deep crackle of thunder echoed throughout the hallway; and it was coming for him. It was worse than a lightning storm of any kind, it was his boss in a bad mood! The imp cowered behind Cerano as Janet’s harsh tone rained down upon him, causing Mizu to tremble lightly as his disorientied brain tried to put something together ”I….you…he…Iria!” Every word came out like a blurted stutter, unable to speak properly with such a fearsome glare staring through him. Despite that he had a very good reason to leave his post, it wouldn’t have mattered to the skunk. She loved money and structure, and leaving the money unguarded was a far worse sin than simply leaving the desk. Letting a small sigh pass through his lips and hanging his head slightly, Mizu released his tight grasp on Cerano’s sleeves and began his descent down the first staircase; his cheeks slightly flushed from being so thoroughly chewed out by his superior.

The walk down the sets of staircases felt eternal to Mizu, as the shame and embarrassment at dishonoring himself and looking inferior in front of his coworkers began to well up in his stomach like the sharp sting of food poisoning. It wasn’t the fact that she had yelled at him that knocked him for such a loop; it was the fact that such indiscretions would possibly deem him unworthy in Ms.Diggers eyes to become a full fledged butler. He might as well have doffed an imaginary cap to Cerano and admit his superiority right then and there. Eventually he did find himself in the lobby once more, his eyes lifting with his head as he noticed the two fiery folk gathered at the front step. His senses were overtaken with an intense heat, and being a creature of water, he bit his lip worriedly and shuffled out of their way before making his way back behind the desk. He muttered under his breath and pulled the ghostly chest into the backroom, struggling a bit with the weight and blowing a strand of lavender hair that fell in the struggle out of the way in frustration. With that taken care of, he let the chest fall with a thump and shut the door behind him; desperately wishing to lay his head upon the desk and remain motionless for hours. That was, until he raised his sullen stare and wrinkled his nose in confusion; obviously getting his first real look at Unique. She certainly was unique to say the least, as all of the chaos upstairs had caused him to forget it was Halloween and he was unaware she was wearing a costume. Mizu didn’t recognize human police officers anyway; otherwise she might have frightened him.

“Good evening miss, welcome to the Elysium Inn! My name is Mizu and I can help you with anything you may need. If you want to check-in to a room all you have to do is ask!” His charisma returned when he needed it most, a bright smile now on his lips as he lightly chewed on a sleeve button to make it come loose. Once it was, he did the exact same thing with the other sleeve so he could straighten them out to what they had been before he rolled them up and buttoned appropriately. Feeling somewhat ‘cleansed’ now, Mizu brushed some hair behind his ear and curiously cocked his head to the side; looking over Unique with a twitch of his nose like a small rabbit might do when poking its head out of its hole. Although his sister had been curvy, truly noticeable curves among Imps were fairly rare, which made it easy for Mizu to spot the difference in humans. Thusly, this was why he didn’t confuse Unique for a male even with her boyish figure. It was her face that had the Imp perplexed, such soft brown eyes upon a face as pretty as a porcelain vase…yet almost hidden beneath her boyish charm. His cheeks blazed bright red when he realized he was staring, shaking his head slightly and nervously chuckling.”O-oh! I’m sorry! I don’t mean to be rude; I find your outfit fascinating!” He nodded, truly curious to its nature and wondering what the word POLICE meant that was so obviously written upon her chest. What a unique woman, indeed.

[Kitsune]

Iria was still searching for that elusive rag when she heard Tomahi's odd question. It actually brought her to an abrupt pause, hands still stuffed in her pockets. Blinking, the hydra looked at the neko with clear confusion in her glistening purple eyes. "Speech wha'? 'Eavens nah. Me speech is lemon, it is. 'Unky dory'!" As far as she knew, her speech was impeccable as ever. As far as her speech went, that is. The maid was far more concerned for Tomahi's condition. She knew the woman's head wasn't nearly as hard as hers and a fall like that could have knocked a few screws loose. Still unable to locate what she was searching so doggedly for, Iria looked up at Tomahi again and offered an apologetic smile. She'd just have to make do with the pretty handkerchief Mizu had given her. Didn't he give her a handkerchief? The hydra was a little surprised to see her hands were empty. Having missed the odd disappearing act with the shadowy slivers, Iria was unaware that the handkerchief had been spirited away. Her head looked no better either. Had she not wiped it at all?

Just about to ask if she was feeling okay, the woman was startled by a very distinct, unmistakable scent wafting to her nose. Unfortunately the skunk announced her presence first. "Miss Jaynet!" the hydra squeaked shortly after Janet called Mizu's name. The hydra watched the imp rush up the steps and leap behind Cerano as if the butler would shield him from the oncoming onslaught. Of course the matagot wouldn't. Abandoning her search for the rag, she hastily brushed her hands over her clothing to hopefully look a little more proper before looking up at the skunk who seemed none-too-pleased with the way things were going. She wanted very much to say something in Mizu's defense, but she couldn't find the words for it. Actually, she could find the words, but Janet wouldn't understand them. No one would. The hydra poured over her vocabulary, trying to find a way to say what she meant but in a way that would be understood by those around her. No such luck.

Several people slipped by them on their way up and down the stairs, never stopping to question why they were gathered there in the first place. Likewise, those who were trying to make sense of what happened didn't pay those who passed them much mind, either. The patrons brushed past the staff on their way to spend the rest of the night however they saw fit. Cerano, just as oblivious really, did not take much notice of them or to the feelings his presence was stirring up in Tomahi. His gaze didn't loiter on her long, too busy darting between all the "players" on the "stage". He had no real feelings toward the dark feline beyond thinking her outfit screamed waif and was in need of an artistic touch. He never thought it was his touch she was thinking about. Unexpectedly, Mizu had attempted to drag him into the action by attempting to use him as a shield. Cerano, however, made no attempt to help. He made no attempt to provoke things, either. The butler preferred to take a backseat and let it all play out instead. The matagot brushed a hand through his locks and moved aside, hearing footsteps coming down the stairs again behind him.

He acknowledged Miwa's words with a slight tilting of his head to the left, his gaze failing to leave the small gathering on the stairs below. At the moment, their interactions were more amusing than whatever Miwa was up to and he was determined not to miss a second of it. Would Janet bite Mizu's head off for abandoning his post behind the front desk? Would he find a way to talk his way out of it? Would Iria somehow come to the rescue, spouting all that nonsensical gibberish she usually did? He certainly doubted the woman could say anything to spare "water-boy" from the guillotine! Yes, Janet would bear down on him like a blade and leave him flailing like a fish out of water. So, when Kiyoshi brushed past, the matagot barely gave him a passing glance before focusing on Janet and Mizu again.

For about two milliseconds.

Then his brain processed what it had just seen and he pulled a doubletake.

Cerano practically choked on his breath when he caught sight of Kiyoshi walking by, his steps confident and the air around him undisturbed by the controlled chaos going on around them. If ever there was a sight that could steal the words from him aside from his own reflection the shepherd in disguise was it! The matagot practically gawked at him, inwardly asking himself where this delicious piece of man candy had been hiding himself all his life! Flawless alabaster skin, ebony locks, an almost predatory gleam to his rich eyes... Though it was through the gift of makeup (and perfectly applied makeup to boot!), the man's appearance was downright alluring and the stark eyeshadow drew all the attention to his eyes--which were always the focal point for the matagot. He would have gotten lost in them had Kiyoshi spent more than a few seconds looking his way. That acknowledging nod he gave sent shivers up his spine before they flooded his brain and dropped down to weaken his knees. "Mmm-mmm," he half-mewled, part of him wanting to pounce the shepherd from behind and drag him back to his room for a little "R&R" Cerano-style (and there would be no rest and relaxation involved). Licking his chops like a hungry wolf, the matagot took one step after Kiyoshi, determined to have a little fun with that delectable man who had been fool enough to swagger into his line of sight before his train was brought to a screeching halt courtesy of Miwa.

He took in the sight of the newly transformed woman, already aware of who she was despite her costume. Sure he was a guy who typically forgot a woman faster than it took a goldfish to forget, but he still recalled enough about Miwa to remember her. Probably because of his fascination with using her as a doll to play dress-up with. Her costume earned a long look from him as he tried to figure out what she was. A teeny-bopper, perhaps? Or maybe a teeny-hopper! That groan-worthy pun was, thankfully, left unvoiced. Snapping out of it, he managed to call out to her just before she slipped out of view with her shepherd. "Happy Halloween, mon petit mouton!" They both looked absolutely adorable and he hoped they had a good time wherever they were going. And maybe he could catch Kiyoshi on the way back, drag him off somewhere quiet and secluded. The only way to better that image was for the shephed to doff the outfit all together...

He was supposed to be doing something, wasn't he? Cerano shook himself out of his lust-induced fog and tried to think back to what was going on around him. Ah, yes. Janet had told him not to go anywhere. She had some kind of job for him. Folding his arms, the matagot leaned against the wall and waited patiently as Janet restored order among her minions. Mizu seemed to get himself off the fish hook expertly and was on his way down the steps to resume his post in the lobby. Tomahi had also bolted sometime during his ogling of the sexy vampire shepherd. Iria, feeling she should get stop loitering in the hall, apologized for causing trouble and jumped right back into work. Though asked by Janet to see to Tomahi earlier, the hydra had completely forgotten and was heading back up the steps again. She was sometimes scatterbrained when flustered and likely wouldn't remember unless reminded. Cerano sighed, wondering if this job Janet had for him would be fun. He hoped it didn't involve cleaning toilets or washing dishes.

[Ms Silver Lining]

The welcoming the young human received from Gesso was much unexpected. His enthusiastic tone and volume caused her small smile to stretch. Did he really think she was an officer of the law? She chuckled softly and pulled her shoulders back so that she appeared taller, playing her part by standing like a proud officer. Yet before she could role-play along Gesso vanished! The human was stunned in his display of abnormality and blinked several times to check her vision. Perhaps, she were seeing things or she really was dead the moment she stepped inside the building. Her head followed the shadow as it zoomed across the floor, over the walls, and behind her and along the doorframe; where she took a few steps away. Then he suddenly popped from the wall and back into the realm she was more familiar with. She felt as if she were Windy from Peter Pan and she had just met Peter.

She smiled as he began to speak of a desk boy making her large brown eyes look towards the desk. Her mind was still processing what he did a few seconds before talking about getting a room. What world had she walked into? Amazingly her smile never failed. Unique looked over her shoulder trying to follow the male as he walked behind her and patted her back. His rough greeting caused her to take a step forward and snapped her back to reality. It didn't necessarily hurt, the way he pat her on her back, but she felt it nonetheless. Which meant she had to be alive.

She doffed her hat back to reveal her eyes and face to look at Gesso. Now that he backed away from her she felt a little more comfortable to look at him. He was a few inches shorter then her, most people were, so she didn't think for longer then a second about. She liked his style but she was still having trouble understanding. It wasn't fear that circled Unique. When it came to her it was difficult to tell how she truly felt. There were different smiles for every emotion and only one who knew her well enough would be able to tell which from which. Her eyes moved from Gesso to Val who stood at a distance and stared Unique down. If Unique were a different kind of human, not knowing this person, she would assume that Val did not like her. However, with the sleeping angel it was a very different outlook. She thought of multiple reasons as to why Val chosen to stay at a distance both good and bad. Her brown eyes softened welcoming this stranger into her space with a small smile. It was such an outstanding feeling to see the strangeness of a spade shaped tail lashing about behind someone. She either had a really good costume or a really pretty tail. And after seeing Gesso fall into his own shadow and show up behind her she was ready to believe the later. When Val smiled Unique's smile grew as well.

Any normal human would have lost their mind by now or fell into a paroxysm of emotions but Unique only seemed to take it all in. Perhaps, because of her own gifts she could remain calm. She could draw a picture and literally bring it to life or play with light to cause her skin to glow. However, she kept all her talents hidden and simply took these two for what they were, living beings. They breathed and carried themselves in their own fashion so who was she to judge.

The best way to describe Unique's personality was to think of it as water and how it naturally flowed with the land. In essence, she simply stood there with a smile while her body felt the joy that rushed throughout its limbs. If they weren't hiding their talents then this seemed like a place where she didn't have to either. Just the thought of it gave her good reason to feel nothing but contentment. "I didn't know a place like this could exist," she spoke calmly with her eyes closed and genuine smile brimming with happiness. She almost looked as if she would be brought to tears but not a tear peeked between her think eyelashes.

When she began to open her eyes again her skin grew slightly brighter; not bright enough that it would be noticeable. Just enough so that the air around her lighten its weight, not that it was heavy before, it was certainly a pleasant feeling. At that moment the front doors opened and a female with red-hot hair came walking inside. Unique looked over her shoulder and offered Phoenix a smile before turning her attention back to Gesso and Val. She parted her lips to ask a question of either Val or Gesso, whichever answered first, but her thoughts were pushed aside as the front door's to the inn opened again and a woman came running through them. In the middle of Unique turning around Sera shoved right into her left side. Unique took a few steps out of warm girls space only to step back into Sera's path. They would have bumped again had it not been for Sera's fast feet and smooth movements. The fireball weaved around Uniques tall frame and up the stairs. The human was left chuckling at herself for feeling like she had two left feet. This place was certainly busy. When Unique realized she wasn't saying much and probably looked silly staring at everyone with her odd smile she shook her head and sighed. "I'm sorry," she paused, "All of this is just a lot to take in. I thought I was dead for a moment." As she finished her last sentence her eyes watched Phoenix leave the inn and turned to see Sera reaching the bottom of the stairs. Unique relaxed further and slipped her thumbs into her pockets whilst returning Sera's beautiful smile. "Happy Halloween." She stared at Sera and her new attire for a few seconds longer then took a deep breath and looked back to Gesso.

"This place is really a hotel huh," she turned her head towards the front desk where she could see the sign with the room price printed big enough for everyone to see. "The price isn't that bad either." She felt like she paid an arm and a leg for her college housing. This place was starting to look like her very own secret garden. Unique's long legs carried her over to the front desk so that she could lean on it. She was expecting herself to wake up from a fall she must have taken shortly after entering this raggedy building. However, the longer she seemed to linger in this dream the less likely it seemed to be one.

Now that she was closer to Val she could see the woman's pointed fangs. She thought about asking her what she really was or if she was dressed up for Halloween too. Her tail waved around too well to be fake. "You're not a vampire, right?" She glanced away, voice trailing, to watch as Mizu made his way around the desk to pull what look like a heavy treasure chest into a mysterious room. When he finally turned his attention on her all her questions were answered.

This was an inn.

Unique's smile never left while he stared at her. She didn't mind it at all and was actually thinking of what she would do now that she understood her options. This place was heaven...for now. It could truly be her secret garden away from the real world and a place where she could practice her talents without hiding from her roommate or waiting for them to leave. Her normal small smile became a tad bigger when Mizu snapped out of his daze and addressed her once more. "You can stare as long as you like," she chuckled, "And thank you for your enthusiasm." She really didn't mind and probably would never get upset with him if he stared at her all day. If he was fine with staring then that was what he enjoyed to do. Who was she to stop him?

"I think I might stay a night here...see what its like." She knew that her two friends would think she were dead if she didn't return, so she would have to go back to her dorm at some time this night. She reached into her pocket to make sure she did bring her debt card. Her head tilted slightly forward as her slender fingers brushed over the bubbled front of the card. "Yeah, one night will be fine. Do I need to sign something or just give you my name and card? I think I have my I.D on me too." She wasn’t sure what was needed here but in any other place they would ask her for I.D.

[Viice]

Val had been watching the new girl with interest, something about her was...different. She ran her index finger along her jawbone slowly and tilted her head as the light around the girl grew with her smile. What exactly was she, certainly not a normal human... As the girl came closer Val shifted her weight from one leg to the other, she parted her lips and the doubled voice escaped. Not a vampire darling, that's nasty business. She looked down a bit and grinned, her upper lip spreading over her elongated fangs. A Succubus. She stated simply. She noted the girl was highly distracted but this was fine with Val, she had wanted to move along and explore the inn anyway now that she had her key.

As Unique was engulfed in conversation she slipped by her and made her way towards the dining room, lacy cloth trailed behind her gently bellowing with each step. She examined her cigarette for a moment before taking a long drag, and as she stepped into the elaborately decorated dining area smoke left her nostrils and her eyebrows slightly rose. Beautiful, and the smell of food was strong here. She teased a large fang with her tongue as her eyes scanned the area. Val was not terribly hungry, but a red wine would be nice right about now. She wondered where she should order, or if she simply sat down would someone come take her order for her? Her heels clicked against the marble floors as she found a comfortable looking seat, away from most of the other guests and with only two chairs to the table. She dragged the chair back gently and set herself down, observing an ashtray in the center of the table with a smile. Well good, someone was thinking her way. Leaning on one petite palm, Val observed the scenes around her from her quiet place in the inn.

[Ms Silver Lining]

When Janet opened her eyes Mizu had moved to hide behind Cerano. The skunk placed a hand on her hip waiting to see if Mizu could get a sentence out. Whatever the sentence, it had better be a damn good reason for him to leave the front lobby unattended. However, the imp could not come up with something she would want to hear. He was wasting her time and money not doing his job. If it weren’t for the fur covering her body one might have seen the stress vain pulsing just above her temple.

She quickly boiled down and turned her head as two of their guest came down the stairs. She didn’t enjoy it hen the gust saw or caught her in a bad mood. She always did her best to keep the welcoming and trusting smile just so they can feel comfortable at the inn. That way they were more willing to stay longer and thus spend more money in the inn. The skunk didn't recognize who they were instantly until she saw the little pink bunny. Although, her hair and eyes were different the sound of her voice was unique making easy to identify her. "Good evening and Happy Halloween to you too," she smiled waving to the small girl. It was good to see that some of her gust were enjoying them selves. In addition, Miwa appeared to be moving around normally so her wound must have healed. She had thankfully missed Cerano using Kiyoshi as eye candy and turned back to watch Mizu make his way down the stairs soon after the shepherd and the sheep. Then Iria excused herself and Janet waved her off.

Now she was left with Cerano the one person she was looking for. "Okay Cerano," she addressed him and began to walk up the stairs, "Follow me." She waved her hand for him to come along back up the stairs to the forth floor. On the way to the room she began to explain to him what she needed for him to do. "We have a young gust named Aman. He was dropped off earlier and he needs clothes. I need for you to take him under your wing and fit him into something decent." She stopped at room number two gently knocking on the door. When there was no answer she twist the doorknob and pushed it open. Her eyes quickly found the young boy sleeping atop the covers. It didn’t seem as if Aman had moved too far from the bed and probably fell asleep soon after she left. She wasn’t gone for long.

Before walking inside she looked at Cerano and whispered softly, "He may be young but his very weak. I suggest you take your time." With that, she walked into the room calling Aman's name to wake the young boy. There was no need to turn on the lights since they were already on. When she reached the side of his bed she took a seat; her tail curled upward and across the bed so her bottom wouldn't set on it. She reached her black hand across his small body to move his golden hair from his face and check his temperature. "Aman, I'm back," she cooed sweetly forgetting Cerano was now there. She fell right back into her caring motherly state without a second thought.

[The_Butterfly_Effect]

Bright golden eyes darted this way and that, she’d forgotten how little time she spent getting to know the various people who chose to stay in this fine establishment, only acquainting herself with a select few; Janet, due to the fact that Sera donated small fortunes to keep this place running, Bob, he was the head chef, how could she resist? And Cerano was just a tease. There were quite a lot of new faces, Sera’s mind casually brushed up against the bustling presences of these newcomers, getting a feel of their auras before retreating back to her own private thoughts. There weren’t that many around who captivated her attention as much as Sono did, now that he was in the picture, she could barely think of anyone else. And though she knew that this way of thinking often lead her to ruin in the past, focussing solely on one person and forgetting about her own safety, Sera didn’t seem to mind, she felt that Sono was worth the attention.

Briefly wondering what sort of goodies were being displayed in the dining room and what sort of mood Bob would be in, Sera turned her head to gaze off absent-mindedly in that direction. It was about then that she felt his presence, and oh sweet Goddess she had never before felt anything so… so… Sera couldn’t think of a word to liken what she felt when sensing his presence, no matter how he tried to hide from her, when in this form of his, it was impossible. She could practically taste the flames burning in his body, his scent imprinting itself into her mind; he was like her very own brand of chilli pepper. Just as she was about to turn and confront his new form, she felt arms wrap themselves around her neck, her body instincts wanting to override her thoughts and flare up in a paroxysm of sudden rage. But this was Sono, not some attacker and despite the fact that his presence had been moments before welcomed, Sera felt slightly on edge, as if anticipating her body suddenly giving in to those deep cravings and urges, but attempting to hold herself in line. She couldn’t lose control. Not here. Not yet.

But try as she might, Sera felt her body crumble helplessly, like a pathetic teen swooning madly in love, her knees actually dared to tremble when Sono’s aura flared up and intertwined with her own. Her eyes closed and she was managing to breath steadily, her head leaning back against Sono’s front; never in her entire life had she felt anything like this before, it was overwhelming and exhilarating, frightening as well, because she wasn’t sure where these new found emotions would lead her. She had not anticipated this situation correctly; Sera had merely assumed that he would be like all those others who dared to fly too close to the sun. But he was his own sun, just as she was hers. Within mere seconds, Sera was filled with the rapturous joy of youth, she remembered what it was like those first few centuries when she started out, getting to grips with her powers and then more excitement when she first began walking in a humanoid form. Such wondrous times, she would never forgot those precious memories, but much time had passed since then and Sera had chosen to calm down a lot, playing it safer in this new technological world. But being close to Sono awakened her old safe, made her realise that she was denying herself the pleasures that life could bring. She was not meant to be a caged bird. She was meant for greater things.

His warm, sweet breath tickled her ear as Sono whispered that he got her, and it was a good thing he did have hold of her, for Sera once again felt her knees tremble and threaten to give way; pure mortification if she actually did swoon and collapse. Perish the thought. Struggling to control her wild emotions and regulate her breathing, she licked her lips slowly, glancing out the corner of her eyes to try and catch a glimpse of Sono without actually turning her head.
“You know… if you wanted to play a game of tag… you could have at least warned me.” She chuckled softly, dragging his sweet and fiery scent deep into her lungs. Thankfully there had yet to be any sudden bursts of fire scattering about the lobby, Sera was very thankful for that, because she felt like burning the place down; or at least burning something down, anything to release all the pent up energy.
As a momentary distraction, she heard the delicate sweet tone of a female, whispering a few words in a foreign language, which Sera understood when she put her mind to it and she couldn’t stop the grinning smirk from curling across her lips,
“So you’re a pretty boy now…?” Sera wondered out loud, as she had yet to see what Sono looked like, preferring to bask in his aura as it tickled her senses silly. “Happy Halloween!” She called back, watching the pink haired, bunny eared female hop on past with a tall, dark and handsome Vampire male; costumes, it was all part of Halloween and Sera loved it. "Let me see you’re costume then…” She spoke softly, pulling slowly away from Sono as her body was reluctant to do so, but she turned to give him a once over, her eyes trailing up and down his body in an appreciative manner. He looked good in black, her eyes shone in delight as they lingered around his middle, those tight jeans looking even yummier on his new body and how could she resist those burning amber eyes of his,
“Well I hope you’re satisfied…” She said with another smirk, it was clear that she was, her eyes roaming about him once more. “So... besides a game of tag, what do you have planned for tonight?” Sera’s attempt at acting nonchalant, as she stood there, arms casually folding across her front, trying not to let her intense emotions get the better of her. Once more she was fighting against the urges to relax and let go, give in to her wilder side; it was so much more fun when she did.

[Vincent W Sinnet]

It was only a short while, but while the demons spoke amongst themselves and while Janet was away Aman slept and dreamed. But unlike his last dream, this one was just a cluttered bunch of foggy images that seemed to get foggier by the second. People and places seemed to be slipping further and further away from Aman, he remembered that he had a brother, he remembered that well enough. He remembered his brother worried and was strong and protective. He remembered that much but he could not remember his brothers name or face. Aman could not remember the land he was from, he couldn't remember his parents or remember even having any to take care of him. He couldn't remember friends or places or things. Things were becoming more and more blotted out, when he awoke earlier in Janet's arms he could remember things vaguely but even then things were becoming darker. But Aman couldn't have thought about it then as he was taking so much in at once.

Aman was a light sleeper when he didn't involuntarily pass out, though he could very easily fall back asleep. Even the gentle tapping at the door disturbed him but he didn't even open his eyes or shift from where he rested. He simply laid there half asleep, listening to the noises as they happened, from the door opening to the sound of whispers. He couldn't make out any words, everything was becoming foggy again as sleep was trying to claim him again. Then he could feel something, someone's weight pressed onto the bed near were he slept. Now that he could feel someones presence the desire of sleep started to fade, but he still laid down with his eyes shut. He could feel a hand gently brush away his hair and a sweet voice that he could actually recall. Aman let his eyes open just a sliver and his obscured blue eyes looked over to make sure that it really was Janet. When that was confirmed, Aman turned so that he was lying on his back, his eyes opened slowly.

His eyes half opened he smiled and responded in his own soft, light voice "Welcome back... Miss Janet." It was easy to tell that he was still tired, but it was gradually fading. The struggle was obvious as among pushed himself up to a sitting position, though there was no hesitation as he began the task. Aman struggled through the complexities of his condition without hesitation or regret. He would forever push his limits and give it his all regardless. Even if sitting up was difficult Aman would just as quickly get up to walk and when it was hard to walk Aman would then try to run until the darkness would claim him yet again. As poor Aman struggled for so much he would smile through, no sorrow for his poor fortune. Though his smile did fade after laying eyes on a new person. Seeing Cerano was not the same as when he first saw Janet. When he first laid eyes on Janet, she carried his weak form and her warmth was all he wanted after being in the chill hands of a dark specter. Though the memory of the specter was just one of a dream. However when he saw Cerano he only saw a stranger and that caused him just a little worry. But he did remember something Janet had said earlier.

He suddenly realized that this had to have been the friend Janet said she was going to bring. Aman felt so foolish, looking upon this stranger with such worry. "I'm sorry..." He muttered apologetically for even his own thoughts. He tried to fix his hair that wasn't hardly messed up to begin with and tried to adjust the patchwork robe he wore even though it laid as well as it could. He didn't want to make a bad impression, this was Janet's friend after all. With a sigh, he gave a sweet smile and looked at Cerano with his glittering blue eyes. "You must be Miss Janet's friend... My name is Aman... It's nice to meet you." He said with much enthusiasm. Aman could only assume that if this was Janet's friend that he must be as nice as her. So he would of course treat him with respect. Aman couldn't help but also notice that Cerano didn't look like Janet and that neither of them looked like people he was used to seeing. This was a strange place, but it was sort of exciting to see all these interesting people.

[Ms Silver Lining]

It never fails. No matter where they were or what they were doing Miwa always conned her way around him. He was the one who controlled her every step and yet he couldn't control a thing she did. All she had to do was frown or allow her eyes to water and he would be at his knees. Kiyoshi wouldn't be surprise if she had a hidden power the swayed others into doing or giving whatever it is she wanted. He rested his elbow on the table and his cheek against his fist. His sharp red eyes slowly followed Miwa as she hopped her tiny bottom in a chair at the bar. It also never failed that she would make a friend wherever they went. There was always someone who enjoyed the company of his sheep. He groaned and grunted quietly to himself hardly making a sound in the peaceful room. He could never forget those who enjoyed her company for the sake of having a nice meal. His eyes narrowed studying the dark male behind the bar. Why was she so drawn to the dark ones? She would befriend the wolf from Red Riding Hood if she had the chance. She could never make friends with someone who appeared nicer. The shepherd would rather she made friends with a young female, one that didn’t look like they would eat her for a midnight snack. His eyes narrowed even more once he saw a glimpse of Bob's sharp teeth. He was quite a distance away but it was his Job to notice these things. Perhaps she’s already met the wolf.

He turned his head slightly when the wind picked up and shook the window he sat next to. It wasn't his doing but the weather seemed to be changing. There were a strong winds blowing in dark clouds. He could see them stretching effortlessly across the sky, blanketing the stars and chilling the night. He looked to the corner of his eyes to find Bob leaning behind the bar for something. Alarmed that he would pull a weapon on Miwa, the dark vampire stood up sharply with every muscle in his body tense and ready to move. He was so protective of Miwa that he forgot they were supposed to be in a safe place. His eyes looked back and forth between Bob and Miwa until Bob pulled out a... stuffed animal? Kiyoshi screwed his sharp eyebrows together in utter confusion. What was a grown man doing with a stuffed animal? He placed his hand down on the table trying to make him self relax. Yet, the word sounded strange to him. He had yet to stop worrying about Miwa since their last near death battle. He fell back into his chair just as Val walked into the dinning area. He lift his head slightly to watch the curvy woman take a seat at a table of her choice. He didn't understand why but seeing her made him sit back in his seat and relax. Something about her attracted him and such a feat deserved to be acknowledged because he hardly ever take his eyes off Miwa. He frowned at himself and cleared his throat to watch Miwa again. However, the wind rattling against the window distracted and unnerved him. He felt like pulling the wind through the window, shattering its glass, and pushing Miwa away from Bob.

He needed to loosen up... do something to burn his extra energy before he drove himself mad. ‘A drink would do,’ he thought to himself as his eyes rolled over to Val once again.

Miwa was rather delighted to know that Bob liked her costume. She thought for hours about what she wanted to be. She didn't know if she wanted to be a super hero or an animal, so she combined them into one. She was SUPER BUNNY! When she came up with the idea she could picture herself in the fancy pose of a supper hero and the large shouting letters of her heroic name. She felt so proud of herself for coming up with such a great idea that she giggled and wiggled in her seat again. She blinked her large green eyes as Bob answered her question about the cupcakes and then her sweet laugh picked up again. She thought it funny the way he said that he only ate sweets. His cooking was the best! She couldn't think of a better meal then the one she had this morning. Yet, she would have to admit that she was a little disappointed not to be eating sweets made by Bob. Maybe sweets made by him were too good for the public. She picked up her cupcake and held it to her lips while trying to hold in her bubbly excitement. The orange frosting brushed across her lip and an edger pink tongue slipped from her mouth to lick them. Her bunny ears rose slightly to listen to his chuckle. It was different from any other sound but it was one she didn’t mind listening to.

When Bob's expression changed so drastically Miwa froze to stare at the melancholy black eyes. Why was he so sad? She lowered her muffin to the counter with her small digits still holding the side of her cupcake. What happened during the time they spent apart? She kept quite hoping that he would explain as he did. He had her full attention as she always tend to give to those talking to her. "Only your thoughts," she repeated feeling a little upset for not being there to company him and his thoughts. If Miwa could, she would make everyone happy in the world. If only she had the power to force people to be happy at all times. She wouldn’t have to worry about anyone. Oh the things she would do... but alas such a thing wasn't meant to be. If people were happy all the time then life would get boring. Smiles would mean nothing. She stopped her thoughts to focus on Bob and every word pouring from his lips. When he finished her eyes slipped downward. "I'm sorry to hear that." She truly was. Suddenly her body tensed up and she found that she couldn't move. Her thoughts instantly rushed to Kiyoshi hoping that her guardian wouldn't lose his wits because he could no longer see Bob's hands. She pleaded with herself hopping he would hear her thoughts or feel her nervousness. When Kiyoshi lift his hand from her the sheep looked over her shoulder and across the room. Something was wrong with him...she could feel it.

She turned her head back to Bob as he sat the larger white bunny next to her smaller one. "Waa! Sagoi! Shiroi no usagi," she gasped in excitement and forgot, temporally, her worry for Kiyoshi. "There so cute," she reached out and pat the white rabbit atop its head. "Now she has company. Hm, my day has been great. I've met some really nice people and thanks to Dr. Pronasium my wound is completely healed. I had hoped to see him tonight so I could say thank you again, but he hasn't been around on our trip from the room to here." She smiled and settled in her set and continued, "I dressed Kiyoshi up like a vampire cause his been so dark and out of the loop. He won’t even get up to talk to anyone. I'm worried about him. I mean, he talks to me but he barely engages in conversations with anyone else. His been like that for tens of years." She kicked her feet back and forth. "It's nice to talk to people so next time you have no one to talk to and you want to talk, you can always talk to me. It'll be my trade for being such a fantastic chef!" She finally picked up her cupcake and took one large bite ignoring the frosting she smeared across her upper lip and nose. Then she laughed after swallowing the bite and moving the muffing from her face. "Look we both have frosting on our faces!" She teased every so playfully.

[Viice]

As Val rose her black cigarette to her lips, she felt someone watching her. It was of course part of her instincts to be able to sense such a thing, this usually meant she had found another victim. But as her eyes glided along the room in search of her admirer they halted on a darkly clad, quite handsome gentlemen, and ever so slowly smoke exited her nostrils. Well hello... she thought as an eyebrow slowly perked to match the smirk across her lips. She looked back at him out of the corner of her eye, careless if he knew she was admiring or not. She was unaware that this individual had anything to do with the hyperactive bunny gal who was speaking to Bob, otherwise she may have held back the flirtatious smile that stretched over her devious fangs. She noted that he seemed to loosen up as he saw her, an effect she had as a Succubus on most men.

She let her eyes trail back to the ashtray as she flicked her cigarette towards it gently, gray matter fell into the center of it as she continued to smile that knowing smile. Her weight shifted a tad as she folded one shapely leg over the other, leaning back in her seat. She once again looked towards Kiyoshi. Was he a Vampire? He seemed pale enough for it, but of course it was Halloween. If he was simply dressed up his costume was quite good. Val was typically not very fond of Vampires as she was constantly confused with them, her line of work was of course VERY different, but this individual held her interest. She would be open minded if he should address her, but then Val saw his eyes move back to Miwa with a sort of shameful expression and she ran her tongue over her fangs, clearly amused. Miwa looked a bit young for him but with an outfit like hers Val was not surprised if their relations were romantic. She couldn't be sure from the distance she was at, but she was growing impatient for her drink. Bob looked a bit busy with the bunny gal so Val decided to wait until her cigarette expired before requesting his service.

[Vincent W Sinnet]

"Only in death will we have our own names since only in death are we no longer part of the effort. In death we become heroes."

Bob's attention was focused mainly on Miwa, the goings on in the background of the dining hall wasn't worth his focus. At first she gasped after Bob put the bunny on the table, saying something that Bob didn't particularly understand. But she went on to talk about her day. "Wound?" he muttered. Injury was something Bob himself hadn't had to deal with in a long while. Bob also didn't know anything about Miwa's situation, but that didn't mean he couldn't assume. Most people who came here with injury usually had a run in with CLOAK or something. Bob had only encountered CLOAK agents a couple of times. First shortly after an incident at his last restaurant and second after an outing with a couple of his chefs. Both did not end well for the CLOAK agents, but the second incident was something Bob did not like to think about. It was when Bob really had to come to terms with his "Ghoul" form.

There was several agents, Bob didn't have much time on his hands to deal with them and he wasn't in a good mood to begin with. His switch to his Ghoul form was almost instant at their encounter. Bob leaped from one agent to another, cutting through them with the claws made from his bones that extended out from his fingers. He was like a ravenous beast as he cut through them and tore them to shreds while withstanding a hail of gunfire from those agents he did not yet dismember. Even when they were all dead he still cut into their corpses, like a thing possessed. One of the two chefs with him tried to catch his attention and Bob only turned back to look at him with blackened eyes that had no light within them. Supernatural as they were, they happened to be completely caught of guard as Bob leaped at them with a loud inhuman roar. Bob cut through them as easily as the other agents. Dealing with it after he came out of his blood freanzy was more difficult than explaining it to Janet after it had happened.

His memories of the incident were brief as Miwa settled in and continued to speak. She had his undivided attention as he took another bite of his own cupcake. She spoke of someone named Kiyoshi, he didn't who the hell that was but she described what she had dressed him up as. Bob scanned the room and found the man in question, he seemed to have his gaze fixed on the succubus in the room. Though Bob of course didn't actually know what she was, nor did he really care for that matter. All this supernatural business was a little beyond him, he knew he was dead and could perform a few tricks. He knew his room mate did... fire... stuff. Look the fact was no matter who it was if you hungry Bob would feed you, but unless you were irresistibly cute like Miwa his everlasting glare would bare down on you.

Preparing to respond to what she said about the man, she caught him off guard with her next comment. Complimenting him again on his cooking, offering to be there for him when he had no one to talk to. Not only was she unbelievably adorable, but she was so kind and caring. It was almost too much for Bob to handle, his pale cheeks reddened slightly at the comment, somewhat embarrassed by it. Bob started to lean back on the stool he sat on behind the Bar counter. "Uh... Thanks. I'll keep that in mind, as long as you remember to call on me whenever you need something to eat." Bob smiled just a little, it lasted a bit longer and was a little more genuine than his last. His smile grew just a little after she mentioned the frosting. "Just don't let any go to waste." Bob said, wiping the frosting off of his own face with his finger and then readily devouring it. Bob's eyes looked to Kiyoshi as Bob tilted back and forth on the stool, remembering what Miwa said.

"You know, I know what it's like to be dark and distant." Bob said, well aware of his own faults. Falling back into his memories Bob thought that perhaps he could give Miwa some advice. "I've dealt with a lot of crap and I'm sure your friend there has too, though I can't assume to know his or your situation. But as far as I can tell, you're both alive and you both have each other. Those are probably the most important things you can have going for you." Bob knowing full well, since he was not alive and in his mind he really had no one. But that wasn't information he was going to burden Miwa with, at least not while talking about this Kiyoshi chap. "So, if your the only one he'll talk to, then talk to him. Tell him how it is and get his a** out there. Put on a serious face with a serious tone and tell him to get out of whatever dark little he's in. If that doesn't work, force him. Lift him off his a** and shove his face into the breasts of that vixen he's been checking out." Bob said in a very serious tone, one that would have matched his default glare though he kept it off in Miwa's presence. With a sigh Bob leaned far back in his stool. "Or find some way to go about it, I'm sure you understand the gis-"

Before Bob could finish the stool he was so carelessly leaning far back on slid out from under him. Bob fell back, his head smacking hard against the counter on the back of the bar and the sound of his neck snapping as it was bent at an unnatural angle as Bob fell into the small space in to bar with little room for his whole body. His leg got twisted in the bar stool, as he fell it snapped and the bone punctured out from under his skin and even punctured the jeans he wore. Bob ended up cramped in the small space of the bar, his neck broken and turned awkwardly as it lay against the back wall of the bar, his leg twisted in the bar stool and his whole body crumpled up in the small space. He stared ahead, almost lifelessly for a few moments.

Then he blinked.

Bob sighed from within the small area of the bar, his arms untwisting his leg from the bar stool. Once done he sat up, his arms coming up to his head. His hands forced his head into place, another sickening crack could be heard as he did so. He sat there for a moment with his hand on his neck. He waited a few moments as his bodies cells worked their magic, quickly working on his damaged neck. When he felt ready, he tested his head, it was a bit stiff but he could move it. It would be a minute or two before it felt completely up to par. But Bob worked on setting the bones in his leg. Firstly by pushing the ones sticking out back in. The gouge caused by them quickly mended itself and Bob set the bones. Not even waiting on the Bones in his leg to heal Bob stood up the stool and climbed back on it. This was Bob's own little magic, his regenerative ability was outstanding, it would be ever so much more useful if Bob wasn't already dead. Sure it made things much easier but it didn't take away the dulled feeling that Bob felt every day. It didn't make him feel any more alive.

"Sorry about that." Bob muttured, unsure what Miwa might think or what might happen next.

[Ms Silver Lining]

"Don't let any of it go to waste, got it!" She giggled and shook her head slightly as she finished her sentence. She used her small finger and ran it across her lips before slipping it in her mouth. Sweet things usually made her feel pumped with extra energy. She couldn't help but to kick her feet a little faster while she tried to use her small tongue to reach the tip of her nose. This obviously would never happen but she thought it seemed fun, so she gave it a try. Her small body leaned back as she tilted her head further back. Maybe her tongue would grow a little longer? She giggled playfully and lowered her head to look at Bob again. She listened to him explain that he understood what it was like to be distant. Miwa listened and she listened well. He was right in saying they were both alive and that they had each other. Her eyes strayed for a few seconds before looking back at Bob again. His words sounded rather serious but the thought of her trying to be demanding and putting on a serious face made her want to laugh. She would never have the same serious face as Bob or Kiyoshi. She pressed her lips together holding back her laugh but she still managed to let out a few breaths of air. Then she looked over her shoulder to see whom he was talking about. The female was pretty. She had all the curves and height Miwa lacked. She had a few curves here and there but only enough that made people say she was cute. She didn't mind and she never wished to be any bigger or flashier. Too much attention could draw the attention of another shepherd.

When she turned back around to Bob had leaned a little too far back in his chair. Her shoulders jumped at the sound of Bob smacking his head on the back counter. Then a flinched when she heard a snap followed by another snap a little lower to the floor. The sheep jumped up in her seat reaching out to help but there was very little she could do. She quickly pushed the plates aside and reached to the other side of the counter to pull her upper body across. "Oh no! Mr.Bob!" She pulled one of her hands to her mouth at the sight of his bone poking out of his leg. Miwa quickly rubbed her nose with the back of her hand then hopped out of her chair and rushed around to the bar. When Bob didn't move Miwa almost had a heart attack. "Kiyoshi," she called. She'd never seen someone get so hurt from such a simple fall. Maybe Bob injured easily. She didn't know but she hoped that he hadn't died right in front of her. Then out of the blue he blinked and Kiyoshi was half way to the bar. Miwa took a few steps back as Bob sat up again and snapped his neck back into place. She stared at him in utter shock and her mouth wide open. She closed her mouth when he stood up and sat back in his chair as if this was something that happened regularly.

When Kiyoshi felt Miwa's heart slow down to its normal rhythm he slowed down his long stride to the bar. His own heart slowed down and he watched Bob stand back up. It wasn't like he was worried about this stranger Miwa was talking to. He was more worried about the mental state of his sheep. His sharp red eyes watched Miwa close her lips and sit her hand on the bar counter top. Miwa blinked several times trying to understand what just happened and how he was still okay. When she finally felt as if she could talk Kiyoshi was sitting on the other side of the bar. "Don't apologies," Miwa shook her head while placing her hand over her chest. "I thought you died," she breathed weakly, "Your recovery is amazing...I've never seen someone," she paused looking at Kiyoshi glaring at the chef. She certainly didn't enjoy the dark look covering her shepherd eyes. "Kiyoshi please," she whispered. His eyes slipped down towards Miwa and over his shoulder towards Val. Her distracting aura was starting to bother him. How was he supposed to keep his eye on Miwa if he always felt like looking over his shoulder? He turned and looked back to Miwa who had puffed her cheeks up in frustration. Even when she was mad she came off as cute.

"What’s wrong?" She boiled in a voice that sounded more upset then serious. It was rather difficult for her to put on a serious look but she buckled down and tried Bob's advice. "You said we were safe here. No one is going to hurt me and he is certainly not. Kiyoshi-" Her words were forced to a stop. This was why Miwa couldn't really talk to Kiyoshi. He only allowed her to say what he could take, but he would stop her before she could say what he really needed to hear. He only stopped her for a few seconds before she was allowed to speak again. It must have been a warning. She pressed her lips together already knowing this would happen. She just didn't know what to do or say that wouldn't make him too upset. If she annoyed him too much he might drag her away from Bob before she could find out if Bob was really okay. "I'm just...saying...you don't have to look after me so hard when we're in the same room. It's Halloween night try relaxing. I promise I wont trip and fall and Bob isn't going to attack me. Here look," she walked around Bob and picked up two wine glasses. Her green eyes glanced behind her looking for something simple to pour. She didn't know her alcohol that well but she knew some simple things and wine. She smiled when she found a dark wine bottle and poured him two drinks. "Here, take this and this one to that lady over there." She sat the drinks atop the counter and stared up at her puppet master.

Kiyoshi's stared at Miwa for only a few second's but to Miwa it felt as if he would defiantly drag her away at any moment. She looked nervously towards Bob and back at Kiyoshi like a child in trouble and wanting a way out. Then Kiyoshi breathed and picked up one of the wine glasses. "Fine," his deep voice slipped smoothly from his lips. As he turned he scooped up the second glass in his right hand with its stem between his fingers and walked away from the bar. Miwa’s body slumped forward on the bar in complete relief that he hadn’t taken her way. Her heart was pounding so quickly that she as if she had just finished racing someone. Kiyoshi stopped to look over his shoulder again sensing Miwa’s distress and she jumped back up and gave him a thumb up and a wink. In order to show him that she was fine so he could walk away from her. When he finally reached the female's table Miwa fell to the floor behind the counter and pulled her legs close to her chest. "That was intense." She breathed and pressed her forehead against her knees. She was scared, so scared that he would take over her body again but relieved that it didn't happen.

Kiyoshi sat the second glass of wine down in front of Val. “Good evening,” he greeted her, “Mind if I accompany you?” His crimson eyes narrowed every so slightly while they took in this woman’s full appearance. He still couldn’t understand what it was about her. No one could take his eye off of Miwa. Finding out was part of the reason why he listened to Miwa. As long as they were in the same room he could bare looking away. This was a step towards relaxing. Miwa couldn’t ask for too much in one night.

[Vincent W Sinnet]

"Only in death will we have our own names since only in death are we no longer part of the effort. In death we become heroes."

In a normal situation Bob would have gladly glared down anyone who would sit there and give him a dark look. Bob would glare motionlessly and continue to do so long after his eyes dried out. But like most things this particular situation didn't call for it. Bob was more concerned about Miwa anyway, Just as Kiyoshi was far more concerned about Miwa than he was about Bob. The issue was between the two of them, Miwa had to work it out with Kiyoshi and any negative input from Bob would simply give reason not to. So Bob kept his glare off by focusing on the adorable Miwa, he ran his hand over the back of his neck which was still a little stiff. Bob simply watched with a blank expression as Miwa attempted to take Bob's advice and put her foot down with Kiyoshi. Though it felt as if she was only able to get a few words out before she stopped. Bob lifted an eyebrow, wondering what on earth caused her to stop, it sounded like she was on a roll.

For whatever reason she started on a different approach with Kiyoshi, it was far less firm than it should have been but as Bob watched things unfold she managed to achieve the desired effect regardless. Kiyoshi eventually approached the succubus he had been watching earlier so that was a step forward. Bob let out a small sigh and he looked over at the terrified Miwa. The sorrow that was already in his expression grew, he wasn't sure how the man had such an effect on Miwa and he really didn't care much either. The why's and how's and reasons didn't ever really matter to Bob unless they were directly related to the solution. Right now all that was important was comforting the troubled bunny now behind the bar. Bob silently stepped down off of the stool he sat on and he crouched down next to Miwa in the cramped space. Bob lifted up his right hand and rested it gently on Miwa's shoulder. Bob looked down at the floor before saying plainly "I'm sorry." After all it was his carelessness that caused all this worry and set all this mess into motion, probably earlier than it should have been.

With a sigh Bob stood up, whether or not the bones in his leg had completely healed yet or not didn't seem to bother him. "I think I need a drink too." Bob wanted something to wash the taste of this whole ordeal out of his mouth. Bob took out a bottle of Bourbon he had tucked away just for himself in the bar. As for Miwa, a drastic change of subject seemed to be in order. "A broken neck... A broken leg... It doesn't mean anything to me like it used to." He said while pouring the liquid into the small glass. He took the smallest sip before sitting back onto the stool. He looked down into the glass, dipping into his darker memories for the sake of at least distracting Miwa and hopefully calming her down. "You could stab me in the heart and I wouldn't look at you any different." Bob continued, his sad gaze trailing over to Miwa. "It's not because the wound will heal over and my heart will be as strong as ever. It's not like I'm immune to the pain." Another sip of the bourbon, Bob paused for a moment. "Simple fact is, what reaction could you expect from a corpse?" Bob let out another sigh, taking down a larger sip of Bourbon. "No lies here, I've been dead for around twenty years. Maybe more."

As depressing as it was to talk about, he wouldn't let it bring down Miwa's spirits. He gave her a serious stare before giving her a solid smile. "Dead for sure, but I don't let it stop me. The grim reaper came knocking and I blew his damn skull off." Bob let out a short laugh followed by another sip. "I fell with a strong will, I had known nothing but fighting. Nobody took my spirit anywhere, I planted my feet firm, forced my body up, forced it back into shape. It took a while, but that was my will." Bob nodded to himself and followed that up with yet another sip. "So now, no little cut, broken bones, burns or anything will keep on me for long. Cause I'm just too damn strong for it." Bob said, pumping up his left arm and flexing a little before downing the rest of his glass. It was by this time that it would be safe to assume that Bob was highly intolerant of alcohol. That or he was highly affected by Miwa's presence. Possibly a combination of the two. Dead or not Bob's blood stream was usually active, especially know with his injuries. So it did it's job in carrying the alcohol to Bob's brain which was still quite well and working. Regardless, this was what Bob truly thought of his situation, though a little more dramatic than Bob would have normally told it.

[Kitsune]

Obediently the matagot followed Janet, unsure of what would be asked of him but still holding on to the hope that whatever job it was would be easy and fairly clean. He had no desire to toil away like an unwanted stepchild tonight. It was Halloween, after all. As she walked up the steps, Cerano followed and listened. A young guest? Dropped off without clothes? Immediately his thoughts went straight to it being some waif a wealthy parent didn't want and decided to abandon here. It wouldn't be the first time, surprisingly. Janet wasn't aware of just how many people attempted to dump their young on them in the past. He had been manning the front desk the first time it happened.

A mother came in with a baby, asking if he'd take the little thing for an unbelievable amount of money. They just didn't want to deal with the pressures of raising a child anymore. Knowing his boss and her inability to pass up money (especially a vast amount), Cerano never called Janet in and immediately sent the woman away with her unwanted kid. He was positive the skunk would have taken the cash and dumped the child on him or some other employee to raise and the matagot just didn't want to deal with babies. They demanded far too much attention and it would assuredly subtract from his attention. Whiny, smelly things babies were. Older children weren't so bad. They at least understand when he wanted to be left alone and he could throw them out in the yard or lock them in a room without concern for their safety. The mentioning of him taking this Aman boy under his wing was met with an immediate frown. "I will gladly dress him, Miss Diggers, but I am no caretaker of the little children," he attempted to explain in a measured voice. His servants had more of a hand in raising the animal than he did. Surely she didn't want him to act as a big brother to this boy. Even she should know he wasn't the parental sort. Not like Janet.

He folded his arms at his chest as she knocked at the door, leaning his full weight on one foot while the other tapped soundlessly against the floor almost impatiently. The slightly disgruntled look on his face vanished a moment before Janet looked to him. It wouldn't do to let the boss see him upset. He raised an eyebrow at her, a little surprised by her suggestion. What did she think he would do to the boy? Drag him off by the ear to shop the entire northern district? Chances were, he'd make the outfits out of fabrics and outfits he had in his room. He had enough to open a store himself! Yes, he could see why she would ask him to provide proper clothing for Aman, but to take him under his wing... He just couldn't get passed that. Still mulling over it as she walked in, Cerano waited a moment longer then stepped into the doorway and leaned against the frame. Pulling away a second later, he glanced at his sleeve to make sure there was no dirt on it from the frame before leaning against it again, satisifed it would not soil his shirt. With him there alone, the matagot had nothing to distract him from what was going on so he watched with astonishment as the normally heavy-handed, no nonsense boss treated the boy with motherly affection. He never thought he'd live to see the day when she cooed at anyone! No one would believe him if he told them.

Cerano took in the sight of the boy, noting every detail he could glean before looking away and seemingly taking a strong interest in the curtains over the window. Outwardly, he appeared uninterested and aloof. It made sense for Aman to be wary of him. He showed no sign of being a threat, but wasn't trying to pass himself off as a friendly being either. There would be no squealing and fussing over him, which was likely for the best. It probably would have scared the boy. The spoken apology directed toward him brought his gaze back to the boy and the matagot tilted his head ever so slightly in question. What was he apologizing for? Surely he didn't think the butler was upset with his wariness of him. He thought nothing of it. Pushing off of the door frame, Cerano took three steps forward and dropped his hands from their folded position, letting the left fall to his side while the right made dismissive sweeps. He didn't understand the apology so he wrote it off as something unexplained. Maybe he missed something as he looked away. Being called Janet's friend was a little...weird. In all the time he worked there, he never considered herself as such nor did he think of their relationship as being a "friendship". She worked him like a dog, after all. She probably wouldn't even allow him to be around her had he not owed such a phenomonal debt! Wanting to avoid awkward situations later, Cerano attempted to explain their relationship in basic terms. "Friend? Not so much. Elle est mon employeur. She is my boss and I am a butler." He drew an arm across his midsection and gave a flamboyant bow to the boy, the silken threads of his long hair sliding over his shoulders to hang on either side of his face. "Cerano Mancini-Boucher at your service." He flashed a charming smile then stood up straight once more.

The matagot butler brushed a hand through his locks, pushing them back behind his shoulders once more in a graceful sweep. Looking over Aman once more, the matagot got down to business now that introductions were out of the way. "This will not do! The rags that you wear now cover your physique like a sheet!" And with his accent, it sounded more like 's**t'. He tsked a few times and shook his head, looking about as exasperated as a fashion designer staring at cheap knock-offs. "It is my understanding that I am to provide you with proper clothing and I will gladly do this. Do you have any preferences? Colors, styles, materials...? Also, what are your measurements?" He studied the patchwork robe with a critiquing gaze, curious about where he got it and who made it.

[Ms Silver Lining]

Miwa closed her eyes and tried redirecting her mix of emotions on settling her heart. She has never felt fear of Kiyoshi before because she never went against the grain on anything he said or did. She simply followed along like a good little sheep. There was no harm in following him when he took great care of her. There were more times then none where he made sure she had the best and felt the best. Whenever she was hungry he found the best food. The food always got better no matter where they were. Having Bob's food was the most tantalizing pleasure her taste buds could ever have. Knowing Kiyoshi, he would search the world for better tasting food and if he found none he would likely bring Miwa back to this place. However, the sheep was tired of all their moving around and feared that if he did find the best tasting food elsewhere, then they would never come back to this amazing place. She never wanted something Kiyshoi didn't want. It took a lot of guts for a sheep to speak back to their shepherd. The worse that could have happen was for Kiyoshi to take her away, completely away from the inn and this city. They would be on their move again, constantly going from place to place. He would still find work for her as a model knowing how much she enjoyed it. He would still give her everything she needed, but she found something in this place she liked and she didn't want to let it go. She just didn't know what it was.

At that moment Bob reached out and touched her shoulder. The sheep lifted her head slightly and looked towards him from the corner of her eyes. His cold stare loomed onto the floor where her eyes followed and gazed as well. She rubbed her lips together as if she were smearing lipstick across them. Then gently nibbled on her lower lip before saying, "It's okay." It was always okay majority of the time. Miwa didn't hold grudges even though the current events were effects of his unfortunate event. Sooner or later Miwa would have to stand up to Kiyoshi and it was better with someone at her side then alone. Therefore, she wasn't bothered and thought that everything was okay.

Bob sighed and stood up voicing that he needed a drink as well. Still sitting with her legs pulled to her chest Miwa leaned her head back to watch him move to get another bottle that looked as if it was put away purposefully. Then he mentioned his neck again and Miwa's rabbit ears rose. Oh! How could she forget so quickly that he was harmed? It was the fault of her attentiveness to one subject at a time. She would be a horrible at multitasking if anyone had ever asked her to do more then one thing at a time. She uncurled her legs from her chest and moved them to her side whilst staring at the rip in Bob's pant leg.

Before she could get a word of concern out Bob continued the conversation. She raised a small digit and slowly moved the finger to touch his leg. However, before coming close she felt his gaze move to her and she recoiled her hand. So instead, she lift her head to meet his eyes and stood to her feet to try and understand his play on words. Her lips pulled slowly apart, ever so slightly, the moment Bob paused. She thought it was a chance to fit in a word or to but she didn't know what to say; simply because she didn't understand. So as he finished, the gears in her brain started ticking and her lips moved to form a small circle. "You're dead?" She blinked, raising her eyebrows, and tilting her head to the side. Her head straighten again the moment he stared in her direction and smiled but a smile never came over Miwa's lips. She was still trying to process how he was walking. He wasn't a ghost when she felt his large hand on her shoulder moments ago. That was evident enough that he was a solid being. He had to be something else. Yes, Miwa has lived for years (she is no child) but she has lived years in the human society. They didn't know much about the supernatural world so much that she knew was either real or fake. She ran though her list of beings he could possibly be and none that she knew fit the appearance Bob had.

As Bob continued the less she tried to figure out what he could be. She thought it rude to think of other things while listening to someone to talk even when they were unaware of her thoughts. The more he said the bigger the smile grew on little Miwa's lips. She giggled at his display of strength and cover her lips with her hand. "That's right!" She laughed pumping one of her arms in the air to flex the tiny and near non-existent muscle. "As long as I can see you you're as good as being alive to me." She smiled nodding her head. "Life is matter right, and matter can never be destroyed. It can only change form, so life is eternal. At least to me. The only sad thing about death is the current image or state of you that I've come to know changes and I may or may not be able to see it again. Nevertheless!" She shook her head with a finger waving in the air and a confident smile painting across her lips, "I'll always be happy to know that someone as great as you will always exist. If you ever did go poof finding someone who cooks as great as you would be tough. In the mean time I'm just delighted that you're okay." She hopped onto the stool and reached over to grab her unfinished cupcake.

The chef had successfully changed Miwa's direction of thinking. She was back to her normal bouncy and bubbly self. Munching down on cupcake after cupcake. She couldn't let any of them go to waste like Mr. Bob said. Her emerald eyes trailed over the two stuffed toys and a question came to mind. "Mr. Bob, you like stuffed animals too?" She quizzed kindly without sounding as if she were interrogating him. "Do you have any more?" She finished and picked up another cupcake from her plate.