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 Posted: Fri Sep 03, 2021 1:21 pm
Shierra glanced over to Aleksi and smirked lightly. "Right. If you do manage to get there and can manage to find me, I might show you around in return for this." Of course, she assumed that this trip would be her only interaction with the young man. As intriguing as he was so far... she wasn't staying, and she found herself doubting that he would go.
"The back?" She sighed and tossed her head dramatically. "Are you so embarrassed to be seen with a foreigner that you have to sneak me in around the back way?" She didn't actually mind, of course. What better way to get into mischief than to know the back way in and out? She peered at the offered hand, and smirked again. "I told you I can handle myself~" she purred, taking the unsteady footing with careful confidence. For a girl who ran over rooftops and scaled stacks of crates, this was just another walk!
Stepping into the cafe, she paused to inhale deeply. Her mouth was already watering with the fragrant sweet breads and coffees and light sandwich fixings... "Got any favorites that you order here?"
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Posted: Sat Sep 04, 2021 10:22 pm
A smirk crossed Aleksi's lips in response to her own. "Is that a challenge?" He questioned with a raised brow, his interest obvious as he studied Shierra. It was his mother's homeland after all so why not visit eventually? It would be more worthwhile if I had someone in particular to visit. Suddenly travel seemed all the more intriguing to him. Who would have thought?
"Pfft. More like I know how to get in for the real service." Teased Aleksi with a wink. "Plus I don't want someone to try and snag my company from me. I'd rather not share the foreigner I'm trying to impress thank you very much." Aleksi gave an appreciative nod, his lips pursed at the confidence and the skill of Shierra as she made her way up the steps without worry. Nice, nice. At least he didn't have to worry about her tripping or reaching out for too much help like some of the others he had met before. Not everyone at the academy acted with such vigor and others preferred the dainty aspect for attention's sake. It was a nice change for once since Aleksi enjoyed the spark of attitude.
As Aleksi waved a hand in greeting to a server and gestured for Shierra to follow him, his steps taking them upstairs and away from the main lobby of the cafe, the hybrid let out a laugh. "You mean what do I not like here? That list may be a lot smaller." He admitted before waltzing through an open doorway, the glass doors propped open to allow a breeze and leading to a larger balcony area that looked out over the canal. Thankfully there was a railing so that the three smaller tables sitting there were secured and it was only Aleksi and Shierra who occupied the area as most stayed below. "My usual is a strong coffee with a toasted sandwich on dark bread. Their sweet breads are really popular...there's one that's like a round bun, but it's covered in like a sweet cookie dough." He tried to explain after a moment. It was like a crisp sugar cookie had melted on top of a fluffy roll with crystal sugar shards on top and it melted in one's mouth, especially if they had one of the spiced teas or coffees with it.
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Posted: Tue Sep 07, 2021 7:54 pm
Brow cocking playfully, Shierra gave a noncommittal shrug. "You may interpret that however you wish." If he were to actually show up in Matori and actually find her.. now that would be impressive. Still, she wasn't going to hold her breath. She wanted to enjoy the time she had here.
"You'd better get around to impressing then, lest another comes to swoop me up." She stepped into the café and followed Alek up even more stairs, but it was well worth the trip. It gave them the lovely view while giving them the comfort of a table without being cramped in the dining area. Perfect.
Shierra was usually one to do the opposite of what anyone recommended, but the cookie dough bun... "How about all of it? Coffee with heavy cream for me, one of those sandwiches, and then one of those buns for dessert." She put her elbows onto the table and her chin onto her hands. "Don't let me down now~"
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Posted: Wed Sep 08, 2021 8:01 am
Then he most definitely would consider it a challenge! "You keep adding to the challenges, milady." Teased Alek with a chuckle. "I'll do my best to impress." Even if the idea of going to Matori was still a huge uncertainty in Aleksi's life at least he knew that he could do his best to try and impress Sheirra while she spent time with him today. A part of him did want to see how she would react if she found out why he could so easily give her tickets, but another part of him wanted her to just know him as Aleksi with no connections. After all he didn't always cheat to win challenges.
Aleksi tapped a finger along his chin. "All of this pressure when I'm not even the one preparing the meal." He joked before standing up and walking from the table. "Enjoy the view and please give me a few moments before you decide to dart away towards another~" The young mage gave her a playful wink before heading downstairs so that he could personally place the order and get the tray for himself. Of course with a few compliments here and there to the staff along with a nice story the young man found himself returning with one of the more elegant silver trays, two sandwiches that were neatly cut, one of the cookie dough buns and fruit along the edges cut into heart shapes to make a decorative appearance with some edible flowers and greens. He carried the tray carefully because of the other two items there, two round glasses with a creamy looking drink inside. "Your order is here." Aleksi offered as he carefully placed the tray before Shierra.
"The staff also argued that we should try their newest creation instead of normal coffee today.' Aleksi gave a small shrug before placing everything out on the table and setting the empty tray aside. "It's a whipped coffee poured over heavy cream." He offered before sitting back down and picking up his own glass and tilting it back and forth so that the tan of the coffee mixed with the ivory of the cream swished about. He held it there before glancing towards Shierra, "Ladies first?"
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Posted: Fri Sep 10, 2021 1:42 pm
At least the guy seemed to enjoy that she wasn't making it easy for him. As long as the promise of tickets didn't fall through, this would all be definitely worthwhile. "What better way to judge someone than to see how they handle themselves when facing challenges?"
She took a moment as encouraged to look around as encouraged while the meal was fetched; standing to lean against the railing. It really was a lot to take in. The buildings were different, the trees were different, the air itself was different... she was grateful for the opportunity to see it all. Shierra grinned when she heard Alek returning and sauntered back to her seat to inspect the meal.
The whipped coffee made her brow rise with interest. "Alright. Time to release the suspense and see if I made a good choice tagging along." She smirked lightly as the cup was brought to her lips, a gentle breath blown over the top to make sure it was cool enough for a sip. There was a long pause after that sip, until finally a pleased sigh released. "I will never drink any other kind of coffee ever again," she moaned, eagerly taking another sip.
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Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2021 6:09 pm
"Here's hoping you weren't looking for me to simply give up." Aleksi joked with a grin. "I'm really bad at letting things go easily so prepare yourself." He did feel a bit of satisfaction at watching her reaction to the drink and the mage made a note to thank the staff later. It did pay off to visit local spots often after all! Amusement crossed his expression as he enjoyed a sip of his own drink, the sugary delight a bit too sweet for his personal tastes but still enjoyable. So far not bad for a first outing. As if they would be crossing each other's paths so much in the future. Still, Aleksi found himself having fun even if it was only temporary.
"If that drink is a sign then I'm guessing you'll enjoy the rest of the meal." He mused with a wink before picking up his own sandwich and taking a bite. Aleksi hadn't gotten the chance to actually eat this morning and he would be lying if he said he wasn't enjoying the meal. It definitely had saved him the embarrassment of a grumbling stomach though there was the risk of him just devouring it within a few minutes instead of taking his time. "If not then at least I know what type of drink to buy you in the future if it always means a reaction like that." He teased before quickly finishing his bite and waiting on her. "Is it customary to make casual talk over food in Matori? I would love to know what brings a foreigner all the way over here." Was she simply traveling? Was she a business woman? The possibilities were endless and Aleksi found himself curious. As long as it didn't involve a lover that was....though it could add a bit more dramatic flare to their afternoon together.
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Posted: Mon Sep 13, 2021 9:04 pm
Shierra chuckled lightly and shook her head. "Where would the fun be if it was 'simple?'" She closed her eyes for another sip, sighing contently with it. It was with a hint of reluctance that she put the mug down, but she was hopeful for the sandwich. Alek was right; if the drink was that delicious, then surely the food would be similarly satisfactory. The contents of the sandwich were a mystery, but she took a bold first bite anyway. Perhaps it wasn't the heavenly shock that the creamy coffee had been, but it was still quite good! "Mmm, the future is later. Focus, buddy," she teased with a wave of her hand toward Alek's plate.
"I bet you would love to know." She took another bite of her meal, letting her playfulness draw out her chewing. Once she swallowed her bite, she licked her lips and shrugged. "It turns out the locals back home frown on murder, but the woman insisted on insulting my clothing. What else was I supposed to do?" One of the little fruit hearts was plucked up and pointedly torn in half with a smirk. "I'm just here until things cool off."
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Posted: Fri Oct 15, 2021 6:12 pm
"Hard to focus with someone like you sitting in front of me." Teased Aleksi as he lifted the last part of his sandwich like a salute towards Shierra. Even though he devoured his sandwich the young mage managed to take it slowly with his drink, to cherish every sip of the sweet concoction. Where could they go next? If she enjoyed sweets then he could take her to that bakery down the street for something to take back with her? There was also other fun things that they could explore or if she enjoyed shopping there were several shops that dealt in more interesting things hidden along the way. So many options and so little time.
Alek let out a chuckle. "I mean why else would I ask? Though I suppose one could consider it my obligation to listen to your story since we are spending the afternoon together. It's so horrid listening to tales from foreigners after all." A brow raised as Sheirra gave him some details and the mage found himself lifting his glass towards her before taking a drink. "I'll make certain not to insult your clothing then. Did I mention how lovely you look today? Should I keep finding things to compliment just in case?" He truly was enjoying the playful banter even if she wasn't being entirely honest and if she was then...well he better be on his best behavior, right? Wouldn't want to upset a murderer after all.
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Posted: Sat Oct 16, 2021 9:24 pm
A playfully sharp and enigmatic grin spread Shierra's lips as she chewed on the fruits. Was she kidding? Was she serious? It would be fun to play with the idea at least a little longer. Let the stranger stew in the possibilities for a bit. "A few extra compliments here and there wouldn't hurt." She pursed her lips thoughtfully while she raised the drink again to sip from, eyes lifting with sincerity. "However, just so you know, you have no 'obligation' toward anything when it comes to me, outside of basic manners. I would rather not have someone feel like they have to do anything on my account without cause." Now she smirked again. "Especially seeing as how I hold no obligations myself toward having to listen to you should I become bored."
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Posted: Fri Nov 12, 2021 4:42 pm
"Thank gods an easy task." Quipped Aleksi. "And you don't have to worry since I have plenty of cause for spending time with you." Aleski lifted his drink to his lips and finished it before pushing back his chair and standing. "If anything I'll consider this an important lesson about the exotic savagery of the other continent." His father had some rather intense stories published based on such things after all and Aleksi always found himself entranced by them. However, as much as he enjoyed the idea of taking a leading role in a story the mage would much rather not spend the day escaping a murderous woman. It would be much more fun to entertain her instead.
"I should do my best to not let you become bored." He added as he studied Shierra with a small smile. "Should we continue on then if you are finished with your drink and food? He reached into his vest pocket as he spoke and pulled out some Belrean currency to leave on the table for their orders. Admittedly he could have left it on his father's tab but it felt better to leave something of his own...this time.
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Posted: Fri Feb 11, 2022 9:13 am
Exotic savagery? Shierra couldn't help a bright laugh. "You have no idea," she cooed playfully. Even if she had never delved into the darker underbelly of the world, she was street smart enough to know that things happened, and she had seen the effects of it more than enough times. It made her wonder what the local 'savagery' was like. Probably something like making someone else's tea bitter. Polite savagery.
She looked down at her plate, surprised to see she had cleared it. She hadn't even noticed! That was a good sign then~ "I suppose we should," she mused, finishing off her drink before standing. She sighed and stretched her arms over her head contently. "That was some good eating," she praised. "I trust our next venture will be equally agreeable, if not more?"
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Posted: Sun Mar 06, 2022 9:22 am
Aleksi's grin grew at the laugh. Even that was lovely despite the threat of murder and he was most definitely enjoying this playful banter. "Well here's hoping you show me more about your world, as long as I have some chance of survival." He teased with a wink, his gaze bright as he glanced over Shierra once more before finally moving away from the table. Despite their jokes he did know that the other continent could be a lot rougher but even Belrea had its dark alleys and organizations that often operated in the darkness of night instead of during the day. It was beautiful fodder for his own father who had apparently delved into such things during his younger years, that much Aleksi had gathered based on the stories from some visitors that had arrived at their manor throughout the years.
"Considering my life is on the line then I would daresay that it should be fairly agreeable for you." Quipped back Aleksi as he opened the door and gestured for Shierra to go forward, his subtle nod to staff showing his appreciation for their help with the surprise luncheon. "We'll be going further down towards the lower markets where the docks are." He explained as he prepared to move them away from the café and down another staircase that had been built into the older brick walls, the foundation of the city showing as they approached older areas full of history and some dangers. Even if it didn't have the polished shine of the upper markets that attracted the rich and visitors, the lower markets held some of the best antiquity stores with gadgets from nameless inventors and magical artifacts both nestled together in some areas.
One such store was going to be around the docks, the storefront hidden by warehouses but full of all sorts of trinkets from across the world. Sailors and black market thieves both enjoyed bringing in things for coin here with the collector who didn't care who they traded with as long as they found something interesting for sale. "Just try not to bump into anyone too dangerous and maybe keep murder on the downlow." Cautioned Aleksi quietly under his breath, his mouth curving upwards and making it hard to tell if he was simply teasing or being completely serious as they approached the shop. There was a wooden sign with faded etching for Myrtle's Mysterious and General Wares and darkened windows along the dark brick wall, stained either by age or the grime from the nearby shipyard, but the interior would be nearly spotless with everything organized on shelves and a hidden backroom tucked behind the old shopkeep who knew Aleksi well.
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Posted: Fri Mar 11, 2022 12:38 pm
Shierra chuckled and gave a playful shrug. "Well, you're not dead yet, so it's looking good so far." She paused to glance around the café, wondering if she might bring her sister later to eat here again. However, it seemed as though Aleksi had a little weight around the shop for quick service.
Mention of the docks pulled her attention back to her current entertainment. A hand drifted to make sure her coin was secure before she resumed following along. With her lifelong proximity to the water, she was curious to see the difference between Matori docks and Belrea docks. They would probably be much fancier than the ones back home. The warning made her smirk with a nod of acknowledgement. "Understood. I don't usually advertise, but I figured you would appreciate a fair warning."
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Posted: Sat Apr 02, 2022 5:53 pm
"Oh good." Aleksi laughed at Sheirra's response. "Hopefully I get a warning or something before I reach that point of this adventure. Would be a shame to disappoint you and then turn a corner right before dying." Thankfully even though they were bantering the mage had confidence in his ability to navigate the city, so many years of getting into trouble with Eliazer making him an expert in getting around the lower streets to find fun.
"Surprising considering how openly you spoke with me about it." Teased Aleksi as they approached the store, his body positioned even closer to Shierra almost as if protecting her. "Does that mean you find me a trustworthy presence that's comfortable to be around or rather are you preparing to get rid of me already to confirm my silence?" It would be a shame since he was going to gift her with tickets after this venture to that show. She should at least wait until then, right? Aleksi grinned at the thought before opening the door and alerting the older earthling woman with the jingle of the bell hanging above.
"We'll go to the back, if that's alright." He mentioned with a smile towards his companion, bringing an arm around her waist to drag her closer to him. "I know the rules." Aleksi promised as the older lightning woman chuckled.
"If you didn't I'd be worried. You're not that daft boy, just be safe." She gestured and watched as Aleksi moved forward to move a tapestry and go through another door. Her violet and green gaze roamed from the mage to the Matori hybrid thoughtfully but nothing else was said before Aleksi pulled Shierra through.
"There's a bunch of trinkets outside and normal wares, but the interesting tidbits are back here. Thinking about anything in particular to bring back home?" He asked as he revealed the damp steps leading towards another open room, a gallery of weapons and magical artifacts on display. "There's apparently another room with cursed objects but even I'm not allowed there...yet." Even Aleksi wasn't certain how much the owner collected, but apparently she had connections throughout the whole city and adored the mysterious and dangerous things. Aleksi could understand that, especially when one added lovely into the equation which was the first thing on his mind every time he studied Shierra.
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Posted: Fri Jul 08, 2022 12:18 pm
Shierra shrugged again. "I'll think about it." Maybe she would warn him. Maybe. She noted the closer positioning, noting to keep herself more alert to her surroundings. She didn't balk against the subtle motion though. It actually made her feel a little more encouraged about her current companion. "Well, you're a special case. I won't be telling everyone walking through town, but someone giving me a tour deserves a head's up. Like I said, a fair warning."
Getting closer was one thing, but suddenly she was being pulled close with an arm around her. While giving the lightning woman a light smile, her hand rose to grip over Aleksi's fingers very firmly, silently warning him to be careful what he did with his hand next. Oh, a hidden doorway? So mysterious!
"Nothing in particular. I'll know it when I see it." It would be great to bring something home for each of her family members. Thankfully, she should have enough to actually get something for each person. The family was only getting bigger! Something special for herself though... She could spend a little extra on something like that. "Cursed objects? I know a few people I would definitely like to give those to. Perhaps another time then." Her gaze was quickly focused on the displays. She had never seen anything like these... "Wow.."
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