Deutsche Küche: Building A Restaurant (Open)

[Winters]

OOC: If you're interested in joining, if you've filled out the fliers, or you just want to check things out... come here...

I'll make it worth your time.

Starting The Bloodline

Today was the day. April 8, 2007.

The significance in days rarely means anything these days to the typical American person. With commercialism on the rise, small businesses were usually absorbed, and taken down. Jobs were lost. People grew hungry. People died. The hopelessness grew on. Rage would always be there. Life and its suffering would never end. But there was always hope. Always the hope that could be blown out in the instant. But that was hope. To expect people to work together, live together, to grow together... to carry the that burden together. America. AMERICA. How wonderful our country is! AMERICA! That burning sensation in my heart... that terrible desire that chokes my throat. Lack of purpose, sense, or duty. No, today, this would end, even if only for a small group of people. That physical barrier would mean nothing anymore. Shadows would be extended, Heaven would be clouded out, and even Hell would close it's fiery cracks in the earth.

For every non-chalant day that there would be...

Today, would be the beginning of a passion, new, renewed. Given. There were no guarantees. That was hope. But to give up before the job was even done? Pathetic. Unforgivable. Come, o' shackled bones, broken bodies! Come, 'o ye spirits that are torn, and destroyed lives that lay at the feet of alleyways, living in the shadows, hiding in the figure of what you formally were! Will you not come and see a simple building? Will you not seek a possibility for those torn muscles, and give new strength to your legs, and feet? You shall not be alone. Never again. And I will work to feed you, break my back so that you may grow. You. You, the 'useless' people. Will you not join me? Will you not come and see... the possibilities of what may be a new life? Come, and grow strong. Come, and we shall grow strong together. Come, and we shall surpass the limitations of our bodies, as we support you in your growth.

But you must be the one to make the first steps.

So will you?

I cannot force you.

Come.

COME! COME IF ONLY MY VOICE IS THE ONLY THING THAT REACHES YOU! COME IF YOU SEEK SANCTITY FROM THE LIGHT AND THE DARKNESS! The light, it burns our skin, our dark eyes, the shade is terrible, everywhere, sinks into the cracks of what we hope to forget, and sinks into hopelessness, fertilizing it, 'till it overwhelms! I cannot assure anything, we cannot assure anything! But will you come if you were not the only one? Would you not come and join me, if you found out that you would grow strong? There are never certainties in life. There are never absolutes in life, save death. Do not be afraid to fear your life, be comforted in knowing you are not alone in your fear of death! This restaurant will be the beginning of hopes and dreams... but it will only work if the weak shall band together. If the weak seek to become strong. And there... THERE we shall come and see. Come and see if there is yet another door that we have overlooked. Come and see... if that door is the one that we have been looking for...

For now, the room is barren. There are several dozen round wooden tables laid about, the chairs all encircling, and the lights dimly coming through the shades... There is dust. But the doors are open.

...I await you here, in my kitchen. It does not matter if you will not be here right away. I can wait.

I've been waiting for years.

Even if it is not this day... I shall wait for you to come to me.

And I hope to make you strong.

[Aureus]

Pulling on the half open the wooden door, Aureus stepped into the building specified on the flier he had read when he filled out the application for a bar tending job. He had actually filled the thing out when he was in his depressed state; figured it would be a good thing to get his mind off of Chi, give him something productive to do. Even though he had managed to patch things up with the dark haired beauty, the Pillar still wanted a job. It would be interesting, not to mention he needed the money badly.

Sneakers muffling his few steps into the building, Aureus pushed the sunglasses he had been wearing down slightly. There was no one in sight, and no noise coming from the kitchen. Leaning against a wall, his dark eyes scrutinized the room even further, just in the off change he had missed something. It was the first of many times that the boy would walk into the restaurant, oddly enough much the same way.

"Hey! Anyone around?" He called, waiting for an answer before traveling deeper into the establishment. From his current vantage point, however, the teen could see the main area he would, or wanted, to work in. The bar was fully stocked with domestic and foreign liquors, there were multiple tables set up that would soon be filled with hungry customers, most everything was neat, and for some reason he couldn't quite place, the whole place had this oddly comforting feeling to it.

[Stu Pott]

((Reserved.... Fuck RPing Block <_<))

[Winters]

OOC: I must thank you for the details you added in. ^_^ Gracias, Alan.

So... You've Come.

"Hey! Anyone around?"

No answer.

Only the lights that came on suddenly, in the kitchen, as various smells quickly erupted, all at once. Various breads, the thick smell of pasta, and lightly flavored coffee, the aroma mixing in together, as an oven door moved open, as the subtle boiling of pots stopped. Fresh bread. Do you know the true joys of absolutely fresh bread? The 'hard' outer part that everyone takes for granted is not always so. Warmed, from the tending love of the baker's heart, it is soft, tender. The texture is amazing. And then, the even softer still of the piping hot bread, underneath the soft crust carrying the flavor of whatever workers have tended into it. Magic. Rarely do people know the true joys of this magic. Fading quickly... within an hour, the warmth will disappear. And then slowly, slowly realizing the true meaning of the world, the bread hardens, and it becomes only that: Bread.

You must eat it, before the baker's heart cools for the night.

"..O-Oye... d-didn't th-think I-I'd s-see y-you h-here... c-coincedence? O-Or d-did G-God h-himself d-deliver th-this t-talented w-warrior t-to m-me?.."

The doors to the kitchen slowly burst open.. the aroma quickly coming in, ten-fold.. as Jonathan Winters took step by step, two baskets full of a dozen bread each, two of a kind, and three plates on his right arm, including spätzle, roast pork loin in beer sauce, and warm potato salad.. kartoffelsalat. While his right hand itself held a bottle of Eiswein, literaly translating into 'Ice Wine'. A personal favorite. So what if they were minors? This was a German restaurant. People drank at ages of 16 legally, and even younger. He would not let this country deny him his culture.

Quickly setting down to a table, putting down the baskets first, and then meals, and finally the bottle itself, he walked quickly back into the kitchen. Had an air of someone already hosting to a large number of guests. Plates, bowls, knives, forks, spoons, and wine glasses were needed. Did not know how many people were coming, but... perhaps this itself would attract anyone passing by, as well..

When he'd settled down more then a few dishes, serving spoons and forks, and everything else he'd gotten to sort, placed on four tables. Finally done, he took a seat, and buried his face into his right hand.

"..S-Sorry.. j-just g-give m-me a-a m-moment t-to c-catch u-up..."

..The coffee! Moving his face up to the Pillar, he gave a quick smile. "..M-Mind f-fetching th-the p-pot o-of c-coffee, a-and a-a f-few m-mugs? I-I've g-got th-the p-pantries l-labeled, s-so i-it sh-shouldn't b-be h-hard t-to f-find.."

Panting.. slightly, as he sat in his chair, he shook his head. Ironic that the first person to walk in was the person who had burned his hands, beat the shit out of him... and yet.. well..

..Life was absurd, in this manner.

You wouldn't hear any complaints from Jonathan, however.

[Jenna Scorn]

When our young Calamity had found the flier at school..well, she had almost tossed it aside. But with a second glance, blinked her eyes and felt a smile creeping onto her face.

Could it be?

Well, Johnathan had mentioned wanting a restaurant some day, but did he mentioned opening one?. She couldn't remember, but anyways, that wasn't important. Blue eyes scanning the sheet, the pink haired girl was grinning.

Snatching an application and filling it out soon enough.
She had hidden herself away in the library, bent over a table as she scribbled away at the paper.

Now, we could find her running down the road. Skipping, almost flying. Why? Well, she was on her way to see Johnathan of course, at least she hoped so.

It was his restaurant after all, why wouldn't he be there?

She wanted to surprise him.


Johnathan was the only thing that glittered in her life, so it might explain why those dainty little feet tied in neon green converse hurried on their way.

Quick.

She was quick on her feet, coming to a stop light. The "DON'T WALK SIGN" flashing in her direction, and with one quick look to the left and the right she'd sprint. Quick feet padding against the cement ground and making it to the other side.

Run.

You could see her barreling down the sidewalk, camo messenger bag tucked to her side with her right hand while the other hand clutched her application.

Faster!

A pair of tan capri's were bunched an inch below her knee, a green shirt decorated with orange skulls was hugging her torso, and hidden beneath a light cotton black jacket. Pink hair was tossed, like aways, but the bangs pinned back.

She had almost missed the restaurant, skidding to a stop outside. She stopped, eyes falling upon the building and she'd swallow before entering. Fingers lingering over the door, almost afraid to enter.

What if Johnathan was upset with her?

What if he didn't want her there?

She withdrew her hand, bringing it to her chest where it clenched and stayed there.

No, Johnathan wouldn't be upset...

Not with me...

Another moment passed before she forced her hand to pull the door open.

A pink head of hair peeking inside and wide blue eyes searching. Glossed lips opened and gave a soft shout.

"Helllooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo?"

[Aureus]

OOC: Somethin' about this thread makes me wanna pour a lot of work into it. Not sure why, though the result will definitely be good. Weeeeeeeeee

IC: The reaction to his inquiry wasn't quite what Aureus had been expecting, but was instead much more...awe inspiring. The restaurant went from an eerily dormant, polished marvel lying in wait for the bustling social scene of Long beach to a roaring giant taking it's first step across the city. The heart of it's newly found life was the kitchen that suddenly glowed with reflected fluorescent light and pumped intoxicating scents into the large hall the Pillar was standing in. Of all the scents that waifed into his nose, the freshly basked bread was the most pleasant. The thing was, Aureus just had a thing for bread. He routinely went through three loafs of Italian bread a week. No meat, or any other type of filling, the teen simply munched on the gain to satisfy his hunger.

A look of pure contentment in his eyes, the dark haired boy turned his attention to a familiar face that had found it's way out along with everything else. The comment about god pulled Aureus from his stupor and traced the usual expression of indifference back onto his visage. This was hard to maintain, however, as the sight of such delectable food and drink seduced his senses.

Ignoring the food for the time being, the Junior noted the professional air of his potential employer. It was clear he knew what he was doing, and was fully committed to it. This will be a good job, he thought, optimistic about things already. Everything about the establishment oozed simple, home grown hospitality, a wonderful alternative to the streamlined sterility of fast food joints. Instead of answering the boy's question, Aureus kept silent, watching.

Despite their past conflicts, the Pillar held no ill will towards the German, just as he said he wouldn't. In all honesty he seemed like a nice guy and working for him wouldn't be a problem. "Sure," He replied simply to the request, pulling his glasses off and tucking them onto his collar before strolling into the kitchen to fetch the items. Reappearing a few moments later, Aureus set the pot and mugs down onto the table Johnathan was sitting at and took a seat himself.

Before he could strike up a conversation about his future position, a soft, feminine "Helloooooooooooooooo" echoed throughout the room. The source was a pink head poking through the door. Looking over at her, Aureus waited.

[Winters]

Comrades. I Have Need. Comrades.
Comrades. I Thank You.

Comfort.

The air between these two felt like, at least to him, utter calm. Peace. At any rate, he was actually.. doing as Jonathan asked. A new feeling. ...More rather, because, Jonathan had never done that before. Not in this way. But it was satisfying, in its own right. Therefore, care had to be used, and used with utmost.

Do you know what it is we take for granted?

The clothes on our backs.

Every stitch, so finely woven in and out of one another. The countless fingers that would be stabbed, yet the toil that would be used. No giving up. Everything, so uniform, so perfect. Strong. For the strongest of these bonds would be as tough as leather, and tougher still. Unbreakable bonds. Each thread coming into place on top of each other, and between each other. One tread missing, and the mass as a whole becomes imperfect. Every thread needed. Nothing useless. But now... These days, machines are used. And these products are now manufactured. No longer is as much blood, oil, and sweat used to create these masterpieces. Manufactured. Much like a military unit. Cold, unfeeling. A passion still there, but is it artificial? Placed there, programed there? Did it truly come from the heart? Some cheap trick? Can scissors tear into it with ease? How easily do clothes rip? How strong is the bond?

The bond.

That bond.

...That bond. That bond of comrades?

The first thread was originally never easily placed. It would have to be strong. Have to go out into the air, where nothing was. Had to weigh on itself and careful, skilled hands, so that the second thread could be put on top. And then another. And another. Took time. Took patience. And it would be strong, and the heart would be there. A weaver's passion. Unrelenting, never-ceasing. A passion that could not die. Not until the last thread was put into place... and that weaver could then say... 'I have a masterpiece'. But gentle care would have to be used. Each finger was important. The slightest twitch, and everything could be a mess, and would have to be torn down, and started over again. So, that first thread would have to be strong. Strong so that the others could fall into place. Strong enough, until enough threads had been put into place, that it would no longer need that first thread. And yet, it could still be there. But the job would be accomplished. The masterpiece could not be undone. Save the waves of time that would crash down upon it, decades would pass, yet the bonds would still hold strong and true. The purpose fulfilled, and working unendingly, 'til the end, and a new masterpiece could take its place...

And then... the coffee was set down.

"..T-Thank y-you."

The Pillar had put down onto the table the thing that would help keep Jonathan up. Yes. He was from God. Ha. Interesting way of meeting him, however. Jonathan's left hand slowly began to move over to the bread baske---

---"Helllooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo?"---

---What the hell!?..---

Blink.

"Wh-Wha... o-oh.. H-Hey th-there! I-It's b-been a-a w-while.. c-come r-right i-in! C-Come r-right i-in..."

Waiting for a bit, for Jenna to come over to them.. Jonathan gave another reach for the bread, but.. his fingers felt inept at the moment, so he gave it up, and instead, focused his energies into his legs, where he wobbled up, moving between the Pillar and Jenna. A slight smile cast on his face, as he watched her. Looking back down, and beckoning towards the both of them with his hands as best as he could, he nodded first to Jenna, and then to Aureus. ..At least, I think that's Aureus.

"..Aureus.. Levi... th-this i-is a-a v-very d-dear f-friend o-of m-mine, wh-who I-I m-met r-recently. H-Her n-name is J---Calamity." He gave a quick look to Jenna. Didn't know if she wanted other people to know her real name. ..And besides. Thrush had given him her name, so... not sure if he had actually obtained the name in a fair manner. If she wanted to correct him, that would be her own call. And then, looking to the Pillar... "..A-And t-this, C-Calamity, i-is Aureus... o-or Levi. E-Er.. I-I'll j-just s-say Aureus f-for n-now. C-Correct m-me i-if I-I'm w-wrong." was the slight smile that was given off from Jonathan's eyes, to the Pillar. Looking quickly to Jenna, he gave extra emphasis, in terms of introduction, due to Aureus's technical higher rank, forgetting for the moment that she often.. frequently skipped school. "..H-He's o-one o-of th-the 2-259's P-Pillars th-that b-beat th-the sh-shit o-out o-of m-me, i-in o-our, a-a f-few w-weeks a-ago. H-Haven't b-been a-able t-to t-tell y-you th-that, s-since I-I've b-been b-busy w-with th-this. L-Left a-a v-very... e-enduring i-impression o-of h-his c-capabilities o-on m-me.." A little laugh, as he twitched his burned right hand towards Jenna, but, from the look of Jonathan's face, you might have thought that this was how he found all his really good friends.. which, he still didn't know what terms he was, with Aureus, but, there was no ill-content, thus far.

Waiting for them to get acquainted with each other.. he could not help but smile. Today was a happy day for him. Today, was not ordinary at all.

...Comrades...

I now have...

[Aureus]

After the girl had come over to them, Aureus stood up as Johnathan had directed and gave her a friendly smile. It was slightly amusing that the German still couldn't tell the difference between him and Levi, but it wasn't that big a deal. Once the introductions were over, the Junior spoke up. "Nice to meet you, Calamity. Interesting name. And yes, John, I'm Aureus. See, brown hair?" he laughed, pointing to his head. The teen found it curious, however, that he made a point to mention their fight. "I dunno about beating the shit out of you, that's a bit of a one sided statement. You did number on me as well," he stated honestly. In fact, his ribs still hurt every now and again. It wasn't as bad as the withdrawal from the drugs though. One day of hell, but he got through it.

"So, Calamity, I'm guessing you're here for a job too, or did you just drop by to say hello?" Aureus inquired.

[Jenna Scorn]

"Wh-Wha... o-oh.. H-Hey th-there! I-It's b-been a-a w-while.. c-come r-right i-in! C-Come r-right i-in..."


OH!
Goody!
Goody!

He's here!!!

She could hardly contain herself, a soft squeak left her lips as she pressed herself through the door and let it shut behind her. She'd bite her lower lip, trying to calm herself.

Now, first thing her eyes fell upon was Johnathan and a bright smile would spread upon those lips. She was about to glomp him, those legs readying to pounce upon him but she stopped herself.

"Johnathan?"

Those same pretty blue eyes took note of his wobbling-ness. She blinked, swallowed, and blinked again.

"..Aureus.. Levi... th-this i-is a-a v-very d-dear f-friend o-of m-mine, wh-who I-I m-met r-recently. H-Her n-name is J---Calamity."

Oh.
Yes.
A very dear friend of his.
Who he kisses.
Yes.
Just a friend.

Cat claws almost came out, and a sideways glance at Johnathan at the remark of the whole 'friend' thing. But it was true, the two of them were just friends. After all, he hadn't asked her out, had Johnathan even ever had a girlfriend??

"..A-And t-this, C-Calamity, i-is Aureus... o-or Levi. E-Er.. I-I'll j-just s-say Aureus f-for n-now. C-Correct m-me i-if I-I'm w-wrong."

A plastered smile laid out on those lips, blinked for a moment and produced a hand held out to this new acquaintance.

Aureus?
Levi?

"Heh, Aureus it is?"

A cute smile, tilting her head as their two hands would met and would shake.

"..H-He's o-one o-of th-the 2-259's P-Pillars..."

"Ah? A Pillar?"

" th-that b-beat th-the sh-shit o-out o-of m-me, i-in o-our, a-a f-few w-weeks a-ago. H-Haven't b-been a-able t-to t-tell y-you th-that, s-since I-I've b-been b-busy w-with th-this."

Her smile faded, hand yanked away from this Pillar.

Glared for a moment, and would switch to Johnathan's direction.


"L-Left a-a v-very... e-enduring i-impression o-of h-his c-capabilities o-on m-me.."


"I see...."

Eyes taking in the sight of Johnathan's wounded hand.

"So, Calamity, I'm guessing you're here for a job too, or did you just drop by to say hello?"

She felt a sudden spark of anger against this pillar, but honestly had no reason for it. So she swallowed her pride, and gave a gentle smile in his direction.

"Ah, yes!"

Now, yanking out the application and slightly thrusting it in Johnathan's direction. The application was written in pink glittering gel pen.

"Here!"

^_^

[Winters]

Breaking The Bread

26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body."

27Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. 28This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father's kingdom."

30When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

~Matthew 26:26-30~

Thinking the passage over to himself, Jonathan kept on his rather statue-esque face, though his slightly heaving chest gave hints that he was still rather fatigued. As mentioned before, he was not working at full capacity, and any attempts to push him beyond his limits would be more straining then usual. But there was a need to mention Aureus... Levi... kicking his ass. In a way, showing him off. 'Here is a man who could me down. Respect him!' Or something grand and noble along those lines. No... that was far too superficial a way to make mention of it.

..Ah... that was it.

Only the most fundamental part of the organization, though, obviously not holding as much priority as the restaurant itself.

Empowerment.

No, he hadn't forgotten it, but, he enjoyed biting sarcasm at himself, on the occasion. Kept him to his wits, and forced him to struggle with himself. Growth. Minor, but a little quirk that only he would ever know, no matter how small.

To say that the 'Pillar System' was flawed was an understatement. But to say that it wasn't a step in the right direction would be false. Nay. It's just that it wasn't enough. Wasn't effective enough. People still suffered. Thrush was testament to this. His proof of the ineffectiveness of the Pillars. Nay. The overwhelming odds pitted against Pillars. A burden that no select individual should ever hold.

Fascist and Communistic ideas, hand in hand, powered by Democracy itself... aye.

For the fact of it was... there simply wasn't enough.

There wasn't enough pillars. Not enough staff. And with government diverting much of its money on various other things, what better to increase the security of the schools of the country itself, then a miniature army, created for the sake of fairness? A calling of arms of 'righteous' students who saw the wrongs of the environment, the call of.. a militia?

Who once said this famous quote?

'The end justifies the means?'

Niccolò Machiavelli, writer of 'The Prince'.

Eradication of evil, of corruption, even if one must become evil himself.

There was no denying that if plans were to go through, students would not only get beat up, by perhaps go through lethal punishments. Valekin would make sure of this. As long as the restaurant itself was successful at least, which in itself was the lifeblood for these ideals. To give food, to give drink to those who yearned for it. For them to pay, unknowing patrons to their cause. A beginning vigilante group, but, they would be recognized. Dimir... ...This was not the destruction of Dimir's plans, but simply a step higher. Would not just let it lay at this school. No. He would have to leave this school as it was, until he could spread influence onto others.

..Such as the rumored 'ensuing battle' between the gang of 'The Hand', and the coalition of the 'Hiricinian' and the 'Varronites' over at Hiricine High. Something that Jonathan had thankfully caught wind of, as he was sent on a mission by Mr. Asiv to inspect the fighting potential. Far too late to save Public High School #499, he had heard. But #'s 260 and a few others were still capable within the range of influence. Even #552... though he himself didn't stay too long at the 'Easter Dance', which ended rather dismally with lack of enthusiasm on both ends. Though, #260 and Hiricine would be his initial 'baby projects'.. the fact was #259 had to be dealt with.

Hence the desire, nay, the utter importance of cash flow. A war of another type he hoped to begin. So long as the ability of mankind to 're-build' again was not destroyed, so long as hope would never be blown out, yes. Yes.

'The end justifies the means.'

And in this complicated plan, this twisted ideal of justice... he would begin this day, and look upon it as a marked one. But how it all tied together? Only he knew... only he knows...

...Or should I say... 'they'?

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

..Taking up a loaf of still piping hot bread, Jonathan wobbled up suddenly, and stood between the two. The emotionless face gone, as a slight smile came onto his face. Breaking the bread in half between them, immediately sending of the smell into everyone's vicinity, Johnathan himself breathing in slowly and deeply as the accentuating smell dug into every nook and cranny of himself and made him feel warm. Kürbiskernbrot. Pumpkin seed.

"...Vielen Dank beide für Kommen." was the serene, deep voice that reverberated suddenly, but doing his best to give off the aura of someone who was overwhelmingly pleased and did not know how to show his excitement in any way, save those little subtle ones.

Handing one piece to Aureus on his left, and softly taking the application form on his right, exchanging it with the warm bread, Johnathan stepped back from them, and nodded to the both of them.

"N-No o-others h-have c-come th-thus f-far.. s-so I-I sh-shall b-begin th-then."

Quietly taking the bottle of wine to his left hand as he took his time in walking about the tables, uncorking the bottle lightly, and pouring a very precise amount in each one, he seemed to prepare himself for at least a dozen people. Yet, he knew that such a number on the first day would be impossible, he prepared for it anyways.

"...I-I h-have c-created th-this r-restaurant f-for y-you, m-my f-friends." he quietly said, as he poured into a third glass.

"A-A p-place t-to w-work. A-A p-place t-to s-serve. T-To h-humble y-yourself. T-To h-humble o-others. T-To en-enjoy y-yourselves, an-and t-to l-let m-me s-serve y-you, i-in t-turn. N-Not m-merely a-a j-job, b-but a-an e-experience t-that I-I h-hope w-will g-grow t-to s-something m-more. M-Much m-more."

Hobbling slightly, his legs creaking under him, the only thing graceful about the whole thing being his voice's message (if you consider a stutter's voice graceful), and the mannerism that he took careful care, preparing to serve multitudes of people.

At the fifth glass, he slowly turned to the both of them, shaking his head to the left, to get the hair out of his eyes.

"A-A n-new f-future, i-if y-you'll e-excuse m-my d-dramatics, b-but I-I c-cannot l-lie a-about m-my o-own s-sudden e-enthusiasm. Y-You t-two h-have a-all b-but e-earned y-your j-jobs." Promptly stopping at the seventh glass, he filled it up partially, and shuddered. Looking about, a little disappointed, but, in actuality, he wasn't surprised too much. Things took time.

Sitting down suddenly, as he pulled out a chair to catch himself, he groaned a bit, annoyed with himself. Quickly walking as best as he could to the front door, his left hand sprang up to the wall, where a group of menus were sitting, which was next to a cane. Grabbing the cane, and a few menus to it, he began walking back, but with more gusto.

"..R-Read th-these. I-I've d-done m-my b-best t-to a-apply p-pictures, wh-where p-possible. A-And I-I've p-prepared a-a g-good a-amount of th-th-th-these d-dishes f-for y-you t-to r-recognize." he said, energy entering his voice, as he put the menus down, to a table close to them, and slowly hobbled his way back to the chair he had pulled out for himself. Looking at Jenna, he gave a quick smile, as he pulled up her application form to his face, and looked it over quickly. "..'W-Waitress'... a-and a-a 'B-Bartender'. V-Vell th-then. I-I've g-got a-a q-quick g-game f-for t-the b-both o-of y-you. C-Cash r-rewards, i-if y-you g-get th-them r-right.. n-no p-penalty i-if y-you g-get i-it w-wrong. B-But o-only o-one sh-shot." was a slightly playful comment.

Looking at Aureus, he nodded... "..T-Take a-a gl-glass. S-See i-if y-you c-can i-identify i-it o-on th-the m-menu f-for m-me, and t-tell m-me i-it's E-English t-translation. A-And y-you, m-my d-dear.." came the voice quickly directed to Jenna, as he looked upon her warmly. "..I-If y-you c-can i-identify th-the n-name o-of th-the n-noodles, th-the t-type o-f r-roast p-pork, a-and th-the n-name o-of th-the p-potato s-salad.. w-well, s-see i-if y-you c-can, f-first."

He had over $450 dollars in his wallet. Enough to share. And enough to get these two to know the menu a little bit more intimately, though only a piece at a time.

..Things had to start off slow.

OOC: Sorry. Too sleepy to edit in his reactions to how you two corresponded to each other. Please assume that he was watching, but was in deep thought while doing so, so, was taking at least 'note' of the things going on between you.. >_> Again, my apologies for the lack of detail. And also for pushing a forced post on you two... Sorry for being inconsiderate, but I'm wracking my head for ideas on how to progress along... ^_^;;; (Has an idea, but doesn't want to just dump the 'Gang' idea onto both of you suddenly.) Willing to pay you at least, for your troubles.

[Aureus]

Aureus had taken careful note of Calamity's reaction to everything said, and he could tell she wasn't happy. And it wasn't just because of the mention of his fight with Johnathan. Something else was bothering her, but he couldn't pinpoint it. It didn't matter much either way, it was none of his business, returning her smile he watched her give her application to the German. "Oh, here's mine too," he said, pulling the folded paper from his pocket.

Oddly enough, the schizo's employer remained silent after giving his introduction. Actually, it was more like he had spaced out. It was then that the boy randomly picked up a nice, hot loaf of bread and broke it between them. The smell alone was enough to drive Aureus crazy, and his mouth began to water slightly. There was nothing better than warm, fresh bread. The whole...breadiness of it was indescribable.

After Johnathan uttered his statement in his native tongue, the Pillar accepted the bread and handed over his application. As the German walked around the table filling each glass with what he guessed was wine, Aureus took a nice bite of the bread. Before grinding and tearing it apart with his teeth, he enjoyed it's unique taste. Pumpkin seed...awesome.

The Freshman's short speech intrigued him. It seemed that Johnathan was trying to do something more than just start a restaurant. It was kinda cheesy, but the whole feeling of comradery was a nice chance of pace. Aureus didn't have many friends, but maybe that was changing.

Nodding to the boy after receiving his instructions, Aureus picked up the glass and examined it's contents. He had been studying up on different kinds of wine, spirits, beers, etc. After all, how else did he expect to function as a bartender? With a flick of his wrist, the liquid swirled around in the glass.

After giving it a quick sniff, the bartender raised the glass to his lips and took a small sip. Hmm...a underlying fruity flavor. No sugar, that cuts out American liquors. Traditional German, no surprise there. 'S around... Aureus thought, swishing the alcohol around inside his mouth. 80 proof. "Schnaps, that's for sure. Apple, I think," He stated flatly to his employer after swallowing, the familiar burning sensation stinging his throat.

[valekin]

Clink, clink, clink, clink, clink.

That tell-tale step. All three of the people there would know who was coming. But each had a different encounter with him. Each had a different perception of him. Each, knew the Shadow Knight, but each... did not know the Shadow Knight completely. They all knew who was coming, but they would each react differently.

Aureus would probably get emotional, in a bad way.

Calamity would probably get emotional, in a different bad way. Mainly, fear, and reverence.

Winters however. Had a better experience with him. And would probably smile to himself.

Valekin's opinion on the restaurant remained nice. He liked the building, it's layout and it's decoration. Much like his chain of bar/grills in the Greater Metropolitan area. Dead Freddie's. Freddy was indeed dead. And so was the owner of the Cameo, and his Factory. Thus.. Valekin's monetary empire was growing ever so swiftly. [/color]

"Приветствия."

Greetings...

He said when he entered the room, and immediately recognized the three. Winters, Calamity, and Aureus. Valekin of course was armed. Wearing his trench coat, Serbian combat boots, leather pant, and... oddly enough. A red shirt. Usually he doesn't wear shirts. Gloves covered his hands of course, but not the Panzer-hand Gauntlets.

[Jenna Scorn]

"..R-Read th-these. I-I've d-done m-my b-best t-to a-apply p-pictures, wh-where p-possible. A-And I-I've p-prepared a-a g-good a-amount of th-th-th-these d-dishes f-for y-you t-to r-recognize."

"Ohhh!!!"

She snatched the menu up within her hands. Pressing it down against the table as her eyes searched the menu. Blinking, fingers running across the surface. Pink, glittering nails smoothed over it.


"..'W-Waitress'... a-and a-a 'B-Bartender'. "

She bit her lower lip in excitement, smiling.

YES!!!!



"V-Vell th-then. I-I've g-got a-a q-quick g-game f-for t-the b-both o-of y-you."

"AH! A game?! I like games!!!"

"C-Cash r-rewards, i-if y-you g-get th-them r-right.. n-no p-penalty i-if y-you g-get i-it w-wrong. B-But o-only o-one sh-shot."

Ah, shit.

She didn't want to look like a foll.
She bit her lower lip again, hands now lowering to rest against her lap.

"..T-Take a-a gl-glass. S-See i-if y-you c-can i-identify i-it o-on th-the m-menu f-for m-me, and t-tell m-me i-it's E-English t-translation."

she watched Aureus closely, bluer eyes blinking.
Deep inside, she hoped he failed.
So she wouldn't be the only fool.

What am I gonna do?!
What if I get it wrong?!?!?!?!!

What if-


"A-And y-you, m-my d-dear.."

AH!
What!?!??!
He called me dear!!!!
YAY!

Blue eyes averted from her soon to be co-worker to Johnathan. Lips curling into a soft smile. She looked at him carefully.

"..I-If y-you c-can i-identify th-the n-name o-of th-the n-noodles, th-the t-type o-f r-roast p-pork, a-and th-the n-name o-of th-the p-potato s-salad.. w-well, s-see i-if y-you c-can, f-first."

Damn.

"Hmmmmm lets see..."

"Schnaps, that's for sure. Apple, I think,"

Mother fucking show off!!!!!!!!!

Now, as she let her eyes focus upon the menu for a short moment.

Clink, clink, clink, clink, clink.

..........nani?

She froze, blue eyes softly growing wide.
But only slightly.

Letting her head turn to face the doorway.

There he was.
The soldier.
The dark soldier.
Valekin.

She smiled to herself.

Tilting her head.

He's spat off some sort of remark.
And of course, our young Calamity not knowing a lick of russian could only assume it was some sort of 'hello' or a greeting perhaps.

He had saved her.
From the cops.
From herself.

"会えてうれしいアンペア時 sir Valekin! 私に会うすべてのこの方法来たか。"

Ah, nice to see you sir Valekin! Did you come all this way to see me?


Of course he did.

A smirk.

[Winters]

The Gathering, The Offer
Theme Song

Hair stood up on end. Goosebumps.

His first job. Hell, he needed a job. Things were lonely at home, and his brother wanted him to get some extra money in. Y'see, the problem with that was not the fact that I am a lazy ass. Oh no. No sirree, I have no problem, being a lazy ass, but I do not to become more independent. A sophomore, aye, and what the jibberknuckles am I still doin' at home, on my little Irish ass, when all of de' shit is going 'round outside o' me little cottage, aye? The riff-raff and the pumpshit is NOT de' place I be shootin' for, boy-o! I be looking for a challenge, a place of meat and hard work, to make me into the man I know I am. Not' sum' pansy-ass, lily-livered goat-monkied piece of blubbering pussy-wool. Saavy, aye? Well, lads, I'ma looking for something new. And that's what I found, two weeks ago, for some.. random piece o' work over at de 'Public High School, #259'. Harharhar! Imagine de' look on me face, when I found something I actually LIKED that dis' school was' a-offering t'me.

Well, de' accent's a might bit powerful, but, I came to de' conclusion of de thinking that.. well.. This 'Mr. Winters' sounds like a rather well, put-together ol' senior. Should be able to take care o' me alright, look after me, mak' sure I'm doin' de' job aright. Y'know? So.. I got m' stuff together, got' my best sweater..---Okay. Fine. M' ONLY SWEATER, 'cause I'm poor like that.. an' uh.. Put on a little cologne, put on summa' clean socks, an' uh.. yuh. Me hair's all nice and clean, my pants are self-ironed, and quite frankly.. I'm feeling quite sexy. ...Almost makes me feel like I'm going out for a date. Y'know? So, I'm cleanin' me self up quite a bit, I'm prepped for this day from two weeks o' mulling et' over, throwin' caution teh de wind, and.. eh. Me older bro's all throwing dees random bits of advice in my general direction, and, quite honestly, I take heed to some, ignore de rest, but, that doesn't quite stop me from being nervous, the moment I be standing right before the doors, aye? I hear things being spoken already from the inside, and the doors are a crack open, 'nuff for a pup, but, then, that's all o' the crockery o' the him-jim-jillies of frat that never dost' bother a beaver with it's Cancun suit.

Lickin' me lips a bit, wettin' it up real nice, real good for my new boss, provided he be acceptin' me, I throw the caution to the wind! I say I throw the caution to the wind, and I break through those doors, openin' up REAL nice, real fine.. and I say:

"HELLO BOYOS AND LASSES! Me name's Garret FitzGerald, o'Irish descent, sophomore at Public High School #259, sixteen years old, 5'8 feet, 159 lbs last time I checked, blood type A+, and ya can expect a nice clean bit o' work outta me, but doncha never call me Gearóid Mac Gearailt, or I'll give ya a whippin'!"

..And all of that said, in one breath. Panting down, he collapsed the upper part of his body towards himself, his hands slamming onto his knees, breathing rather hard, but obviously pumping full of enthusiasm. Jumping up from his exhausted composure though, he leaned on a table with his left hand, crossing his left leg in front of his right, with its toes pointing towards the ground.. A massive smile brewing on his face.

"Nice to meet ya' all!"

Me name is Garret FitzGerald.

And I'm intimidated by the size o' me burrito.

Yeah. Ye' know whut I mean.

Hehehe.

* * * * * ...A Few Minutes Beforehand... * * * * *

Hair stood up on end. Goosebumps.

Aureus's fill-out sheet was pretty self-explanatory..

"AH! A game?! I like games!!!"

And of course, Jenna, and her adorable enthusiasm.

..Let's see now. Jonathan quietly strode over, cane in hand, over to the front desk, where the hosts and hostesses would be, grabbing a toothpick, and putting it between his lips, biting down on one end of it, before walking back to them. But in truth, he was keeping his head slightly tilted, to keep watch on the both of them. The Pillar... Aureus.. Or.. no. Shall I say... 'Mr. Hayes', now? Smoothing the creases out on his registration form on one hand, he watched as Mr. Hayes took to the glass of wine.. and slowly, swirled it, sniffed it, and finally.. tasted it. Impressive, impressive, impressive.. already a sense of professionalism...

"Hmmmmm lets see..."

..Little bit of uncertainty emanating from her voice, but that was fine. He'd only cooked for her once.. didn't expect her to memorize the names or anything.. That would be perfectly anal of him to think in such a way.

"Schnaps, that's for sure. Apple, I think."

Couldn't he taste the sugar? This wine wass made from Beerenauslese stage grapes that freeze naturally on the vine. And just when they are frozen, the grapes were harvested and crushed. The ice keeps the moisture isolated to achieve the high sugar content of its brand..

"..E-Eh.. w-wrong, I-I'm a-afraid.. B-But th-then, i-it i-isn't e-every d-day th-that y-you s-see 'Eiswein' offered... b-but i-it's a-alright... i-it's a-a n-new f-flavor t-to y-your p-palette, I-I e-expect, s-so th-the s-sugar m-must n-not r-register i-immediately.."

Ah... too bad, too bad. But very close, save a few defining features.

OOC:

The doors to the kitchen slowly burst open.. the aroma quickly coming in, ten-fold.. as Jonathan Winters took step by step, two baskets full of a dozen bread each, two of a kind, and three plates on his right arm, including spätzle, roast pork loin in beer sauce, and warm potato salad.. kartoffelsalat. While his right hand itself held a bottle of Eiswein, literaly translating into 'Ice Wine'. A personal favorite. So what if they were minors? This was a German restaurant. People drank at ages of 16 legally, and even younger. He would not let this country deny him his culture.

Sorry.. I may have not have been clear.. >_<. But this was a check to see if you guys would look up in my earlier posts to see what I put down, hence why I let you guys have a menu IC, so you could identify. >_> Meh. More money to buy in Sean Baker's thread then, I guess.. *shrugs* ^_^ I see what the misunderstanding is.. if you want, can hook you in for some, in compensation, if you'd like.. >_>

---Clink, clink, clink, clink, clink.

"Приветствия."

...It was the tongue of the rat-race's speech again, but.. with a much more likable tone, much like a more agreeable Ukrainian or typical Slav. Not that.. God-Damned Russian infestation tone.. but one of more subtle speech and talk.. ah.. AHH...

Jonathan whirled around, his eyes absolutely delighted, with a rather well-sized grin on his face.

"Mr. Kaluskov! Empfang, Empfang! Kommen Sie, Sie herein! So glad you decided to join us here!"

Hahahahaha! Well met, and well met again.. Yes. The Serb was wearing a trench coat of interesting intricacies, visibly armed, combat boots befitting of a military man, gloved, pants, and... a red shirt?

How appropriately symbolical, for today.

"S-Symbol o-of a-a n-new b-bloodl-line.."---

"HELLO BOYOS AND LASSES! Me name's Garret FitzGerald, o'Irish descent, sophomore at Public High School #259, sixteen years old, 5'8 feet, 159 lbs last time I checked, blood type A+, and ya can expect a nice clean bit o' work outta me, but doncha never call me Gearóid Mac Gearailt, or I'll give ya a whippin'!"

...

Stopped in his tracks. He wheeled around, from the already entering Valekin to look at a.. rather strange, flamboyantly blonde, sweater-wearing.. 'Irishmen'. The overenthusiasm nearly gave him a heart attack. An initial frown.. but it quickly changed around.

"Nice to meet ya' all!"

"..W-Welcome.. I-I a-am Mr. Winters.. g-glad y-you c-could j-join u-us.. M-Mister... u-uh... F-FitzGerald, w-was i-it?..."---"Aye sir!"---"U-Uh.. j-just t-take a-a s-seat, w-will b-be g-going o-over s-some th-things n-now.." While walking toward the Irishmen, still slightly put off by the.. 'over-enthusiasm, but, he needed to remember tolerance. Besides.. it was a day of firsts for everyone.. in some manner or form. Grinning derisively, Garret handed over his application form, which Jonathan.. somewhat 'snatched' out of his hand. Mm. Busboy. Perfect. Nodding at the blonde, the Irishmen slowly strode his way over, past the Serb, and wheeled himself into a chair, next across from where the Pillar was standing, not knowing who or what was going on. For Jonathan himself, he cleared his throat. Giving Valekin a slight look, he nodded, as if to say 'I'm going to just say it now'.. he cleared his throat again, and changed the front desk around, stepping behind it, much like a podium.

"W-Well... I-I s-suppose I-I sh-should g-get r-right d-down t-to i-it, l-lady a-and g-gentlemen.. A-And n-not s-sure i-if a-anyone w-will c-come, s-so I-I'll f-fill th-them i-in l-later.." ..A suddenly serious tone taking over his voice, as he slowly peered towards them. Nodding again, he straightened his back up a bit. Yes. His outline was already laid out before him, on the 'podium'.. for it'd soon be Thrush's turn to speak. "..Z-Ze t-time i-is u-upon u-us. B-But w-what e-exactly? S-Surely.. y-you m-must a-all h-have s-some s-sort o-of i-idea.. V-Vor v-ve a-are.. u-under a-attack..."

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

"..I-It's y-your t-turn Thrush.. b-break a-a l-leg o-out th-there.. a-and s-stick t-to z-ze s-script.."

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHahahaha.... ah.. It's about TIME.."

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

..Who's afraid of ze big bad wolf..---?

["Thrush"]

Ze Orchestrator And Ze Orchestrated...

"..Ja... vut Jonathan was talking about.. Ve have.. a most dire, and serious problem.. on our hands..." the eyes slowly turning red, as he bowed his head down once, and lifting them up, to reveal the same face.. but he slowly took down the glasses with his right hand, for he needed them not. But his eyes burned with something passionate today. Today, was not something that he would just pull out of his ass. Today, was not a day that he would go insane, as was expected of him, and he'd pull his usual stunts. Today... today was the day that Jonathan had pushed him for, trained him, tutored to him.. trained him for. He was a soldier. A soldier in every manner of the word. But no soldier ever fought alone. Something that Jonathan---No. Something that HE hoped to change today.

"..For any who do not recognize me? For those who do? You may know me and call me as.. 'Thrush'."

Hands slammed down on the podium. He barely needed the script itself. He knew of what he was going to say, and he'd deliver it in his own words, his own way.

"Do ANY of you.. remember ze day zat ze 'Pillar System' was formated? Zat ze day zat corporal punishment vas allowed? Ja? Zis is.. most important, especially for you, mizter Hayes.." he said, his voice unusually sharp and in a 'no-shit' manner, eyes cocked dully open, partial anger already emanating.

"For.. vat I have zeen... ze Pillar system is simply not enough. Ze S.H.C.P.'s? Zey are not enough. Ze violence at our school ESCALATES daily, and ze transfers are not adding too well to ze pot ve have here." A small grin. Playing on nativism. In California? Yeah right.

But the grin was bitter, and the eyes showed no happiness.

"To protect und gut students. To crack down on ze bad. And ze transfers.. most notably the #499 students... 'ave been raising a ruckus. Not to say ALL ze transfers are evil... but zat there are also those, from #552 zat are ALSO causing problems here."

Cocked his head suddenly, sharply to the side, as he looked at them, glaringly, almost venting out an angry aura.

"..ZE CORRUPTION... ZE VIOLENCE... AND IT IS STILL NOT ENOUGH. AMERICA, AND IT'S NEW FOUND PROBLEM, JA!?"

Hammering down his fist into the podium, almost collapsing, his seething breathing heard very audibly, as he keeled, almost falling over the podium. "..Zat is not right. Is it not right, zat ze Pillars must bear zis on zere own? Zat ze S.H.C.P. is insufficient? Zat NO MATTER how much people like Mizter Hayes, and myself and my counterpart BOTH have to vork.. zat ze pain is all ours alone? I say no... I say no. But if ve leave it all to ze government, zen it will take monthz, maybe YEARZ before improvements are done, and zat only means zat more children shall suffer, and become hardened criminials, ze moment ze valk out of ze school grounds.."

The serious. He looked at them all darkly.

"..And zen, vile zis School Captain at our school is gut.. zere is still corruption in other schools, still running rampant gangs.."

"..I ask you, no, WE.. ask you.. to join me, to join us. Not just in a restaurant. But in an organization. To crush ze #499 transfers.. to STOP ze corruption of ze uzzer schools.. but I need to make you all strong.. and I vant to make you all strong and stronger. It is ze.. only way. But only if you all cooperate."

Teeth bared slightly. As if there was a fish bone in his throat.

"Zere is no lie, however. To fight vire.. ve must play vith ze fire. Ve must become lower to work ourselves up into zomething stronger. Ve cannot allow Public High School #259 to close. If ve do... ze streets will become rampant with thugz, and zere is not enough schoolz here with as powerful an administration as our staff's, save #260's.. And ZAT vould be disastrous.. And vould easily end in ZAT school's fate, vith civil vars breaking out vith US as ze transfers zis time, AS VELL AS ze #499. DISGRACEFUL." Pounding his fist onto the podium.

"..Ze yearly evaluations are coming up in a few months. And it iz only a matter of time, before ze worst could happen. Mister HAYES! I direct this message.. PARTICULARLY at you, because of how much WORK you do.. Imagine if you had to fight a THOUSAND of bastards EXZACTLY like me, as you virst met me.. You have a burden. And as S.H.C.P.... I am trying to alleviate zat burden, if only slightly.." Nodding slowly to Aureus, he turned to Valekin and nodded again, aware of what he was doing.

"..I am azking for a.. 'brotherhood', in a way. A bruzzerhood zat is NOT afraid to tread in ze dark vaters, in order to bring about ze light to uzzers. NO, zis is NOT officially recognized by ze school.. yet, if ever. YES, for any of you who are not of S.H.C.P., OR a Pillar or ze School Captain herself, ye will be endangered. But I'm asking for ye to fight for our school, if you have any school pride at all. I'm asking you all to make a difference, instead of just SITTING DOWN on your fucking ASSES, and join a fight zat can make a difference, only if YOU are a part of it.. Zo ve can take down ze bastards. Zo zat ve can take down zoe #499 transfers. Zo zat ve vill become strong, give each other that much needed companionship... and accomplish a school.. of peace."

To fight all the other schools, so that one more student could come home, without bruises on his face.

To fight all other students so that they wouldn't need as harsh teachers as they do now.

To fight in the darkness, sacrificing ourselves for others.. because it is not so heavy a burden, when carried in a group.

What he was asking for was not simple. Some, like Valekin, had already showed 'slight' interest. But this was a large movement he was calling for, that may or may not become effective in their generation. But he would do... WHATEVER it took... so long as it could be done. Whatever it took.

"..Rise up... step to me, if you heed my call of arms.. if you heed my call for a 'Militia' of #259..." Standing tall. Standing with a purpose. Standing because only enthusiasm and strength beckoned.

Whatever it took.

Whatever means necessary.

So that one more student could be safe.

Violence to eliminate the violence, so that they wouldn't need so many damned strong, violent teachers.

To give each other support.

To make each other strong.

To do whatever it took.

..Just as long as it would mean she wouldn't have to fight so hard... anymore...

The purpose of the restaurant would become obvious. To fund this movement, this organization. To fuel the elimination, or put down of volatile transfers. Elimination of corruption in this school's faculty and other schools. And, quite simply... to make themselves stronger in the process.

He'd do it. He was covered in enough filth. He wouldn't mind taking another dive into another pit, so long as he'd have some back up, this time..

So what say you?

Will you help me, will you help us..

So that good little girls like 'her' don't have to hurt themselves to keep the rest of us safe?

For 'her' sake?

...For master?