maskormenacelogs | (no subject)

[The tables out front have been shoved to either side of the room, creating a make-shift dance floor. There's a gathering of people in circle formation. Every once in a while, someone will jump in solo. But more frequently, they come in groups - of two, three. Stomping their feet to the heavy sound coming from the speakers and egged on by the energy of the crowd. The circle claps, the beat's passed on.]

[Care to jump on in? There's always room for more.]

[Found a certain someone? Maybe you've never even met 'em before. Doesn't matter - just on the outer edge of the bar, there's a hallway. Lit up in red, which should tell you exactly what kind of place this is. The booths here are sanctioned off by heavy curtains. Enough to keep 'em guessing, but also to make your matters private. Some of the higher-priced rooms have round-leather booths with a single table inside. For the cheaper option, there's a stool and stand. Make with it what you will.]

[Pass those private rooms and you've got some open slots. Door-less spaces where men and women gather to join the oldest sport on record: good ol'fashioned gambling. There's the usual(s): black jack, poker, roulette. All games start at a $10 buy in and everyone already knows that the house takes a cut of the winnings.]

[But there's still some money to be made. Think you've got the luck?]

[For those not interested in any of that, there are two pool tables available to knock a few around. Minor winnings here will include small amounts of cash or drinks at the bar, courtesy of the loser.]

[To those who skipped Maurtia as a settlement, the outside might be the first warning that The Devil's Nest isn't really a place you'd bring the stereotypical hero-type. There's plenty out front who are way past the limit and more so that have looked at said limit, spat in its face, and hurdle-jumped right over without any heed of concern.]

[Some keep to themselves, but to say that a heated argument couldn't break out is misplaced optimism. In the alleyway a little ways down, a scuff is already starting to brew. Looks like it's over some gambling-debts and fueled by cheap liquor.]

[Step in hero, or don't.]

[Occasionally, a few guests will be thrown out if they cause too much of a fuss. Or if they happen to step across a certain line. So if you're coming in late to the joint, you might be greeted by the ejection of said company. And considering the place? It isn't a polite lead to the door.]

[Maurtia really is an eye sore, but Ryuuko's seen worse in the slums back home. this area isn't anywhere close to her neck of the woods, but she's here anyway. from the looks of the flyers that seemingly plastered every street corner, they seemed to promise one hell of a time, and that's exactly what she needs at the moment. a distraction. something to keep her mind off of other things. she's a bit young to crash the bar scene, but she blends in well enough. still don't be fooled, she can handle herself, and her liquor (for the most part).

one of who knows how many beers in hand she steps outside to grab some fresh air, settling back against the side of the building. unphased by the petty scuffles off to the side she seems lost in her own little world for the moment... but then the arguing gets louder and far more obnoxious to the point where it can no longer be ignored, and eventually Ryuuko just can't take it anymore.

so she throws her beer bottle at them, hitting one guy square in the face with enough force to knock him to the ground, the bottle ricocheting off to shatter at their feet.]

Oi!! Nobody gives a damn about your fucking lame ass bullshit so shut the hell up already!!

[needless to say, the men aren't too happy that a random teenage girl is meddling into their dispute, and each seeming to forget their conflict with the other party they close in on Ryuuko. the small group of men surround her, trapping her as they roar with angry threats and a warped sense of superiority over her. Ryuuko fixes them with a challenging stare, not an ounce of fear present in her expression. which only serves to piss the crooks off more, enough for one of them to pull out a gun and hold it to her head.

the gesture has the opposite effect of what one would expect, a smirk curling it's way onto her lips as she stares down the barrel of the gun fearlessly.]

Do it. I dare you.

[there's something about her eyes... and that horrendously cocky expression. she's serious. the man hesitates, the key to his own downfall. Ryuuko side steps quickly, grabbing his wrist and twisting his arm to point the gun upwards, a single shot fired up at the sky before she overpowers him in the struggle and the gun is sent clattering to the ground. once that's out of the way she elbows him in the gut to knock him off balance before spinning around and kicking him in the face, his unconscious body plummeting to the ground at her feet. it all happens insanely fast, and it's a pretty impressive display coming from such a petite young girl. she turns to face the remaining gang members, hocking a loogie and wiping her mouth with the back of her hand.]

Anybody else?

[she's more than capable of taking them all on tbh, but maybe she shouldn't.... might be a good time for someone to step in...]

Ryuuko.

[Even though he has the build to do it without trying, Senketsu is never really that intimidating. It's usually his meek, friendly demeanor that counterbalances his appearance.

Today, Senketsu demonstrates that he can be imposing if he really tries. He's not trying to scare Ryuuko, either--just letting her know that he is very, very disappointed with her.

He had been alerted to her little trip when he couldn't find her in any of her usual haunts--and typically she'd send a message to Senketsu letting him know that she was off somewhere else if it was out of the ordinary. But the advantage Senketsu has in a world where there isn't a whole lot of Life Fiber, it's easy to track down those traces without much effort.

He stands just a few feet away, arms crossed over his broad chiselled chest and his eye practically glowing with assertiveness.]

What are you doing here?

[if Ryuuko's little display didn't manage to scare off all of the remaining crooks then Senketsu's appearance certainly does the trick. fighting a random crazy chick is one thing, but a seven foot tall monster? heeeeeell naw! they may be stupid but they're not STUPID.

despite not showing the slightest bit of shock at a gun being pulled on her, Ryuuko has no defense prepared for the jolt that runs through her when she hears his voice calling her name. eyes wide she turns her head to look at him and sure enough her fear is confirmed. there's Senketsu, and he's lookin' pretty peeved. what a curveball this night has thrown her now! her bewildered expression only lasts a few seconds however before it hardens again. at his question she shakes her head, looking away for a moment and taking a deep breath before flashing him a crooked smile.]

Heh, ain't that obvious?

[her hands find their way back into her jacket pockets and she turns to face him completely, nodding her head towards the bar.]

Word on the street is this's the party of the century, didn't wanna miss out.

[and she's dressed for the occasion, a black leather jacket paired with a maroon colored top tucked loosely into a tight leather mini skirt, and combat boots to tie the whole thing together in that edgy fashion of hers.

truth is she doesn't give a rats ass about the party, she just had to get away.]

Oh, right! I forgot how much you love parties.

[Except she doesn't, Ryuuko couldn't hide her introversion if she was given a labyrinth to put it in.

He sounds so genuine in his sarcasm, too. Deadly genuine. In fact it doesn't seem like sarcasm at all when he takes on a hurt expression.]

Why didn't you invite me to come with you?

[rolling her eyes at his comment she grinds her teeth together, looking away once again out of frustration with not knowing how to handle this situation. she feels like she's just been busted doing something she shouldn't be doing.... oh wait, that's exactly what's happening. she's just never had anyone in her life to play the part Senketsu is playing now; the concerned and disappointed loved one.

catching the pout in his voice she swallows thickly before shrugging, trying her best to blow off the guilt she's feeling for not telling him where she was or what she was doing.]

S'not your scene.

[and she wanted to be alone... she didn't want anyone she knows to see her like this... struggling.]

Yeah, you're right.

[And so, he approaches her, paying no attention to whatever witnesses they may have. Senketsu places his hands around Ryuuko's head, unintentionally making quite an aptly sized cage around it. Still, he leaves her face exposed, and he tilts her head down so that he can rest his forehead in her crown.]

And neither is it yours.

[the nerves swell in her stomach as he grows closer and takes her head in his hands. she's not sure what exactly he's trying to get at-- until she feels his own head come to rest on top of hers. she has to bite back the emotion stirring in her chest and burning at her eyes. after a moment she huffs, grunting and pulling away from him. she steps back, crossing her arms over her chest with a sour pout on her lips.]

Don't treat me like a baby. I can handle myself just fine out here on my own.

[Senketsu lets out a sigh that brushes against her hair. His gentle grip around her head shifts and her chin ends up trapped in his grip as he forces her head upwards to look him in the eye. At this angle, it's surely uncomfortable.]

Then stop acting like one. Every time something happens to upset you, you have a tantrum and run away, damning anything that may cross your path in the meantime, whether it's people or objects. You say that you can handle yourself "just fine" but the evidence standing right before us is evidence to the contrary.

[He gestures with his free hand at Exhibit A, broken beer glass.]

I keep hoping that one day you'll learn how to deal with your problems without hurting the people around you.

[she stiffens in his hold, with no choice but to hold his gaze. once the initial shock wears off she fixes him with a challenging stare, glowering up at him as she's forced to listen to everything she doesn't wanna hear at the moment.]

Tch! It's not like I'm hurting anyone who matters! Those scumbags got what was coming to 'em!

[she feels no shame for the way she acted towards them, they were looking for a fight and they got one. plus she was able to work off some frustration beating the snot out of them, so that's always a plus. the fact he's chastising her over her behavior has her growing hot with anger, to have him of all people judging her.]

I don't need a friggin' lecture! Tell it to someone who gives a damn!

You could kill someone with your strength, Ryuuko! That's why you should care--because you could make yourself a situation in which you could never take back!

Do you think Mako would be happy with you if you got someone else's blood on your hands?

[she pushes against him abruptly, knocking his arm away from her and roughly shoving him backwards, growling out aggressively in frustration.]

You think I need you to tell me what I'm capable of!?

[now he's gone and pissed her off. she's positively fuming with anger, balling up her fists and seriously contemplating taking a swing at him.]

What the hell do you take me for-- some sorta god damned criminal!?! Is that what you think of me?!?

[Senketsu barely takes a half-step back from being shoved away--he holds out his arms in a clear "come at me bro" posture.]

That self-centered attitude will turn you into one!

Ta hell with you!!

[she lunges at him, putting more strength behind her shoving this time, pushing against him repeatedly.

self centered, huh? well maybe she is, but the whole reason she came all the way out here was to keep everyone else out of her troubles. she doesn't want to drag anyone down with her on this self destructive path she's wandered down so many times before. her life has been full of disappointments and heartache, and this is how she deals with that. it's not healthy, she knows that. she never claimed it to be, but she can't help getting like this. it's a hard habit to break.]

I get it, okay!? I'm a fuckin' tornado! All I do is wreck everything!! That's why I had to get away ... I'm no good for anyone like this!

I wouldn't be here if I didn't thought you could stop yourself!

[He deflects her shoving with his hands, easily displacing her force with all of his bulk and fabric-flesh.]

I do everything I can to let you know that I'm here for you all the time, but you keep pulling stunts like this!

Just hit me!

[senketsu what are you doi--]

Hit me until you work it out of your system! Until you're so sore that your body goes numb! Until you can show me how you really feel!

[...maybe he's officially lost it.]

Hit me, Ryuuko!

RRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAGHHHHH!!!!!

[clenching her fist and drawing an arm back before sending it hurtling towards him, punching him in the center of his open palm.]

Shut the hell up!!!

[she moves in for another punch, with her opposite hand this time.]

You wanna know how I really feel!?

[and again, another hit. punching him over and over again.]

I feel like you don't trust me!

If you really had any faith in me at all-- you'd trust me a whole lot more!!

I didn't come out here to go on some crazy rampage!! I just wanna get away-- from everything! I can't take it!

The sad looks everyone gives me-- even you!

I don't want your fuckin' pity, dammit!

My best friend is gone... and I can't do anything about it!!

How do you think that makes me feel!?!?

[one last powerful blow and she's left panting for air, bent over and resting her hands on her knees as she surrenders to a coughing attack, struggling to pull herself together.]

[Once she seems like she's done, he crouches to meet her eye-to-eye on her own level.]

We all miss her, Ryuuko.

[That's it. That's all he says. But he keeps her eye contact nonetheless.]

[once she gets her breathing right she sighs, sitting back on her heels and running a hand through her sweaty hair.]

... Yeah.

[the pained expression on her face threatens to give away those dreadful thoughts of the rough road ahead. Mako won't be around to cheer her up anymore, to make her smile, or laugh. and even if she doesn't realize it yet, Ryuuko's going to miss having someone to look after, and someone who admires her... who believes in her.]

[Senketsu tilts his head to the side.]

Ryuuko, will you allow me to be the self-centered one for a moment?

[she snorts and gives him a flat look, confused and slightly agitated.]

The hell are you gettin' at?? Since when do you gotta ask me for permission to do anything?

I don't want you to think that I'm trying to make it about me.

[Inhale.]

You say that you don't feel like I trust you. It's just because I worry sick about you that I came out here.

When you're not where I'm used to finding you, and you don't send me a message that you're going somewhere--that you want to be left alone--I worry that you could be in a lot of trouble. I'm thankful that you're alright and there aren't ambulances here, but I wasn't going to find that out until I got here myself.

You know I won't take it personally if you don't want me around.

[He came back to her even when she told him she never wanted to see him again, after all.]

And it doesn't have to be anything elaborate. "I'm out for a while," something like that.

[she blinks at that, looking away and rubbing at the back of her neck, visably cringing.]

Guess that makes sense.

[Hngghhhh she feels like an ass now.]

Look, it's not that I don't want you around, I just...

[deep suffering sigh.]

I didn't mean to worry you. I should've shot you a text or something... I wasn't thinking straight. Sorry.

That's the first thought that went through my mind. "She's gone somewhere without telling me, after receiving upsetting news, and can't think straight enough to at least let me know she'll be gone."

[He shrugs.]

And if you do want me around so we can go somewhere for a while, just the two of us, I can make that happen.

I forgive you.

Edited 2014-09-15 04:44 (UTC)

I'm starting to think you're a bit too proud of that ability of yours to know what I'm thinking.

[grunting softly she stands up, adjusting and dusting off her clothes. at his offer she pauses, contemplating for a moment before a subtle smirk curls it's way onto her lips. hearing him say he forgives her takes a load off her shoulders, giving her the courage to be a little mischievous.]

Well, since you're here now [she points to the door a little ways behind her with her thumb, her other hand coming to rest on her hip, grinning devilishly.] ever been to a bar?

[she's aware that's not the sort of "get away" he was referring to, but they can always discuss that in more detail later. right now, she could really use another drink.]

If it makes you feel any better, there are times where I wish you confounded me.

[There are times where he hears Ryuuko's voice in his head as clearly as his own. Especially at work. Senketsu hasn't really built up the courage to explain why he smiles to himself in amusement at random times while dealing with customers or merely stocking shelves.

He, ah...tilts to the side a little, to look past her at the bar curiously...and then stands up.]

Have you?

[You know, before today.]

Sure. [not very many, and not very often, but she spent time at a few different places back home when she traveled around from place to place.] They're not the nicest or the cleanest place's around, but they're not all bad either.

[she turns to walk towards the door, but pauses to look back at him over her shoulder.]

Wanna check it out?

[He follows...cautiously.]

Are they going to let you back in after what you did out here...?

Puhleaze! they oughta think about paying me, getting rid of those creeps for 'em. they're the ones who got kicked out in the first place, arguin over a lost gamble.

[so really she did the club a favor, see?]

Besides, the security's pretty lax around this place, from what I can tell. I mean, considering I got in the first time around without them asking for ID.

[~~it's the skirt, Ryuuko. it's the skirt.~~]

Ah, I hadn't seen that part.

["Without them asking for ID."

Senketsu gives her a look. You're breaking rules right now, aren't you?]

[oops, maybe she shouldn't have mentioned that part-]

Aheh...

[scratching at her cheek and smiling sheepishly before shrugging and folding her arms behind her head.]

Anyway, don't worry 'bout it. Just act normal.

[because bar hopping is totes normal for them.]

[The commotion from outside certainly hasn't gone unnoticed. The inexperienced patron or two takes a glance from a window before shrugging it off and deciding it isn't their problem. In Maurtia, it's the same old and everyone's got their own way of dealing with an issue.]

[Besides, it looks like it's been resolved.]

[Inside it's still just as loud and rambunctious as it had been hours prior. And when the door to the 'Nest births open, cuts of yellowish light pour out onto the street. Fool's gold lining where trickles of rain slither across concrete.]

[But the light's obscured as it tries to push through. The obstacle in question is merely a lumbering shadow. An arm outstretches from inside and five-fingers coil around the upper part of the door.] Oi, oi, oi -

[Whoever the man is, his voice is low and the dark doesn't do well to highlight his features. He's a silhouette to the backdrop of the bar and the white line of fur at his collar turns sickly to the hue. He dips under his elbow, shoving his heel to the next step down with poised ease.]

[A slippery walk by any other means.] - now, that isn't very nice. [Greed raises his head and the grin he's got is fierce. Dagger sharp with a jaw-set reminiscence of any good predator. He drops his hand at the door, but not before his nails skip and scrape across the splintering surface.] Thought I was pretty clear on the rules.

[While the gang members have been beat, they're not off yet. Pulling themselves up from the scrap of alleyway, they're soaked with the lot of it. Grime runs polka-dot patterns across worn jean and leather, a bit of blood races where the soft mist touches a jaw or two. But they're quiet when they see him and Greed casually side-steps Ryuuko and her rather eye-catching guest. Only to stop right beside them.]

[He's poised with a slouch and both hands come to rest in his pockets. The details from inside touch his shoulder and race vibrant colors across his sunglasses. A battle between the dark outside and the in behind, the yellow-orange fades into a blue-purple at the silver frames of his sunglasses.] Wouldn't want to have to do something I don't have to, hmn? Could get a little messy.

[Greed swings out his foot, letting the dramatic tip pry at the coming fog. The message is clear: "You're not welcome." And the gang members, though foolish, aren't so stupid to continue anything. Sure, a few leers are thrown in Greed's direction. Maybe a ping-pong glance from Ryuuko and Senketsu then back again. But that's it. Before they turn away like a wandering pack of jackals that have just stepped on the wolf's turf.]

[It's then that Greed raises his shoulders with a shrug.] Eh- [He turns back, slipping a glance to Ryuuko.] - sorry about that, lovely. But this place isn't really for someone like you.

[Still, he isn't about to say no. And considering the circumstances, he'll let it slide. It's clear she can handle herself - her and the company in tow. Greed turns back to the step, ushering a hand over his shoulder as a beckoning.] Gotta admit, that's pretty impressive. But let's not make this any more trouble than it has to be. I'd rather not see a gal hurt - call it one of my rules.

[Whether she takes the invitation or not? Well, that's up to her. However:] Looks to me like we owe ya. Half off for you and that friend of yours. [The homunculus lulls his head back to the pair and his shades pull white to the bar-noise.]

That is, if you're planning on sticking around.

[the moment the stranger emerges from the bar, Ryuuko can feel a significant change in the air. his presence commands attention, and his aura alone is enough to make the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. she can't quite put her finger on what it is exactly-- and that only piques her curiosity further, halting in her tracks as Greed makes his way down the steps. she tears her attention away from him only to glance back out to the rag tag team of misfits that dared to swarm in on her earlier. they seem to catch the same vibe from this guy as she does, except they seem to know well enough not to mess with him, given the fact they trudge off without a single bark or quip despite being so vocal before.

finally his gaze lowers to hers and she holds it, an eyebrow quirking at the unwarranted pet name; lovely. bleh, gross. her expression sours further, "someone like you"??? who the hell does this guy think he is? he turns his back on her and she clicks her tongue, biting back a growl that threatens to burst from her throat as her short temper pushes to get the better of her as usual. but before she can get a chance to respond he speaks again, complementing her this time-- had he been watching from inside the pub?

she gives her anger a second to simmer before a cool and confident smirk curls its way across her lips. now this is the kind of recognition she was looking for!]

Can't pass up a generous offer like that.

[half off seems like a pretty sweet deal. Ryuuko moves forward intent on entering, cocking her head back to Senketsu with the same devilish expression.]

C'mon, Senketsu.

[Senketsu is an observer by nature to begin with; he witnesses Greed's display of dominance in a neutral but attentive way. Acting like that, he must own the place or think he's some kind of big-shot. Or both. Impressive either way, Senketsu thinks, to have the kind of charisma that simply demands respect.

Neither of them make pleasant faces at Greed's pet names; although while Ryuuko's reaction is disgust, Senketsu tilts his chin up and arches his brow as if the word lovely didn't deserve to attach itself to her. The expression turns into a subtle roll of the eyes at the idea of Ryuuko not belonging there. Ryuuko can go where she damn well pleases, even though...legally speaking at least...she's not supposed to be.

Still...this guy seems to be the kind of person that would be good to associate with.

Senketsu glances at Ryuuko as she beckons him, giving her a silent nod.]

Edited 2014-09-17 06:41 (UTC)

[Any sort of disgust thrown his way is merely greeted with the perk of an eyebrow. Other than that, Greed ignores it. Instead, he slips the edge of his boot to the door, throwing it ajar once again. As promised, the whole bar's full of energy. From the people out front thudding to the base of the speakers to the few crowding at the head. The Sin weaves through the crowd in a practiced motion and he's just as slick. Running like paint fresh to the canvas until he's found the side entrance to the bar.]

[He motions to two stools, of which are occupied. But a mere flip of the hand later and the two men seem to get the notion.] Guests - [Greed says. His voice takes on a pleasant hum, vibrating and notching in his throat.] - later. [And with that, the pair are off.]

[Leaving two unoccupied seats for the taking.] Ah, sorry. Meant no offense earlier. This just isn't the kind of place your types tend to end up. Not that I'm complaining. [The side door knocks behind him, bouncing in and out similar to a saloon door on the swing. Except here, there's no high-noon. No gun's blazing or a sheriff to marshal.]

[No, it's all free game.]

[The homunculus cups two glasses from underneath the bar and drags them out by the stems. A easy flip of the wrist has them right-side up and he stretches his forearm in a horizontal fashion.] Guess you're the one I should be talking to. Doesn't look like your friend of yours is too chatty. [Least, not at the moment. He had been earlier, but that was then.]

[Now that the excitement's dulled down, it'll be telling whether or not the other speaks up. For him or her. Not that it matters too much to the man in question.]

[Greed touches his collarbone with a swift graze of the thumb.] Now, what'll it be? It's a one time deal, after all. You might as well make it count.

[it's crowded, even more so than before, she notes- but no time to dawdle, Ryuuko keeps her eyes trained on Greed's back. able to follow the gentle tousling of the fur on his collar as she weaves through the pool of people a step or two behind.

it's shocking to see anyone give up a seat at the bar so willingly, nevermind two, especially when the place is so busy... but she's quick to catch on to the fact that this guy is more than just a bartender. the way the people respond to him, obediently, he's obviously the boss around here.

Ryuuko, being shorter than average height, hops up onto the barstool. once she's situated an elbow perks up to rest on the bars edge, her head falling routinely to the side as she catches her chin in the palm of her hand, fingers curling around her cheek.]

Our type? [the phrase is repeated back to him with a noticeable lack of enthusiasm.] And just what is that, exactly?

[please, share. careful here, you're treading on shaky ground. Ryuuko doesn't like labels, never has. and she certainly doesn't appreciate the thought of being characterized into some mystery category. though, she doesn't seem quite as agitated as before, willing to hear him out at least.

at the mention of her not so talkative friend her gaze flips to her partner beside her. though partly true, Senketsu is more of the "silent observer" type, he's likely busy trying to feel this guy out more than anything-- in addition to their new and unfamiliar surroundings. she shrugs it off, a self assured smile easing it's way back.]

Takes him a second to warm up. Get some liquor in 'em an maybe his lips'll loosen a little.

[she elbows him teasingly, a small lilt in her voice as she chuckles.]

Hm, let's see. [eyeballing the stock on the wall behind their new acquintance, surveying the top shelf liquors and humming in sweet contemplation.]

I'm always up for a mean whiskey sour. Make it two. Best yah got.

[nodding in Senketsu's direction to imply the second is his. deciding on the spot it might be better if she orders for him since he's not as familiar in the ways of alcohol. of course, she's no pro herself, but she's at least got some experience under her belt.

a second later her expression twists, giving the impression she's just realized something she'd forgotten. she leans to the side, holding up her hand infront of her mouth for some privacy and whispering to Senketsu under her breath.]

Wait, Senketsu, can you even drink this stuff??

[she's not 100% positive since he's got a pretty particular... metabolism.]

[While Ryuuko is smaller than average, Senketsu is significantly larger than average--though he seems to make up for it by being in Ryuuko's personal space to minimize how much space he takes up himself--grumbling quietly when he's met with an elbow to the stomach.

But what does he want to drink? She may be right in her assumption that he knows nothing about drinks, but...]

Uh...

[Senketsu looks up at the displayed bottles. He's since discovered--after having been given this body and plenty of time to experiment--that the clearer a fluid is, the easier it is for him to process and the least likely it will give him an upset "stomach". Some of them, like vodka and saké, seem like pretty safe bets, but at the same time...there's a chance that the alcohol content could throw him off.

He's not really in the mood to gamble tonight, not when he has no idea what the scope of damage might be.]

I don't know. I think it would be wiser to find out in the safety of our own home.

[That said...]

If it's possible, I'd like some hot water. As hot as you'd be willing to serve it.

Didn't mean any offense, sweet heart. This isn't really the type of place kids like you tend to wander. [Though, he blatantly doesn't have any rules against it. The 'Nest just tends to suit the needs of a certain clientele and the bar is just full of them. In the crooks of shadow and cigarette smoke, there's a certain type; scarred faces, hidden glances. Crooked grins that spell out nothing particularly good. It's a criminal's soirée with a mixed bag of the unusual.]

[Though no one present seems to be hiding the fact.]

[Greed's lips up to a curved grin when she does finally order. The choice is rather surprising and maybe, there's far more to Ryuuko than the gang-bashing, tough-knuckled demeanor.]

[Which just catches his interest that much more. Her and her odd companion in tow.]

[The Sin turns on a heel and tears open one of the ice boxes sunk-deep inside the prep station. Two lemons roll into his outstretched palm and he forces the heel of his hand to keep them steady. With his back to the two, he sends his free wrist flicking out and it calls out something. It's hard to make around the constant bustle in and around the bar, but it looks inky in color. And whatever it is, it chases up his fingertips like a spark lit to a line of gunpowder. Until he has a set of rather nasty looking claws hooking out in a pitch-black from the tops of his fingers.]

[He shoves a talon into the side of one lemon and quickly skins it. The peels fall in ribbons beside him and some topple down to the floor below. A second later, its equal meets the same fate. Naked and fresh, Greed presses his thumb into each fruit, swirls, and drains the juice into both glasses. It's then that he pauses and the mirror in front shows his surprise at Senketsu's order.]

Ah-? [A perk over the shoulder gives a glimpse of an exaggerated frown.] You do know where you are, right? [The husks of lemon are tossed away blindly and they thud into an open lid of a trashcan.] This is a bar, friend. Usually people order something a little more than that. But eh- [Greed swipes his hand casually up his thigh and that second-skin of his suddenly trembles back down.]

- suit yourself. [He says as he snatches a fist-full of ice and drops it rather casually into one of the glasses. His right shoulder raises up to make the fur at his neck graze an ear and Greed touches his rather plentiful collection of booze. One, no. Two, n'aw. Three - ah. That's the ticket. His knuckles circle the neck and pull a nice bottle of brandy from the row. A healthy portion goes into Ryuuko's serving before he tips the whole damn thing into a shaker and gives it a swirl.] Didn't catch your name, by the way.

[The homunculus pours the contents into the glass again and new ice freshens the mix. Add a cherry, twirl a peel of lemon, and he's back to facing them. The music seems to shift when he slides the 'Sour over. The twang of a guitar and the heavy maw of a man who's seen his fair share, the music filters over the bar crowd like mismatched radio static: Angels start to look good to me. They're gonna have to deport me to the fiery deep-"]

[Greed takes a brief moment to catch the attention of a woman as she passes behind the bar.] Grab something hot for the other one when you're done, lovely. [She says nothing, but merely nods. And with that, he saddles up in front of the two. Crawling into the little space as he eyes them through the hollows of his shades.] Ah, right. The name's Greed - [Finished with the 'tending for now, the homunculus links his ankles and leers in between the two. Negating all person space from before.]

- it's a pleasure.

I ain't no "sweet heart" that's for damn sure.

[just gotta make that clear first and foremost.]

Yeah, well, I pride myself in being unpredictable... most days.

[every now and then the slice of life routine grows stale and she feels the urge to mix things up a bit.

she sighs, swinging her legs on the bar stool and glancing around the room at the not so welcoming faces. surely the atmosphere alone should be enough to have any teenage girl running for the hills- but Ryuuko's not just your ordinary teenager. she's faced scarier looking punks, hell she was the leader of a band of delinquents for so long, it's difficult to mentally classify herself as someone who doesn't belong with the rough and tumble crowd.

her attention is pulled back to Greed as he replies to Senketsu's request, catching his judgemental tone. she straightens in her seat, chest puffing out a bit as she growls back a rebuttal for him, pounding a fist on the bar top.]

Oi, he can order whatever he damn well pleases!

[and there's that temper flaring again, might as well get used to it. ain't nobody gonna diss her ~~boy~~friend, got that? she settles back in her seat, arms crossed as she fixes Greed with a warning glare, just to get her message across that she's not gonna have anybody shit talking her company, especially when said company is Senketsu. her locked gaze on him doesn't falter even as the drink is slid her way, silent for a moment as he tells the pair his own title, and she can't help but raise an eyebrow in response. Greed? what kind of a name is that?? she's not one to judge but... it's definitely unusual.]

... Ryuuko.

[she lifts an arm only to point a thumb at her friend.]

N'this is Senketsu.

[whether or not it's a pleasure for them, she's not 100% convinced yet.]

[As Ryuuko puffs out her chest to make her look bigger than she actually is, Senketsu puts a hand across her shoulder to calm her down.]

It's alright, Ryuuko.

[He's used to getting reactions like that, but...it's nice to have someone defend his choice for once, especially when its a choice made out of necessity rather than desire.

After introductions are made, Senketsu puts on a warm smile and points a claw at the drink Greed has made Ryuuko.]

You know, I cook the same way.

[He fans out his hand to show off his blood-crimson claws, then taps the one of his thumb across those of his fingers, making tinny, metallic clinks with them.]

I know how to use knives, but it's much more efficient and comfortable to use what I already have. It makes taste-testing pretty easy, too.

[...yeah, because those two statements make total sense in combination.]

[And what a mouth she has on her. Greed's look of surprise is unabashedly laced with wonder - his face perks, his mouth opens just a tad. Again, he makes a wild sort of gesture. Letting his head sink and his neck turn. Both hands to shoot up over his head, as if mocking the very idea of a surrender.] Ha -! All right then. Ryuuko it is.

[The Sin's arms fall and he rocks back onto his heels almost playfully. The woman from before's come back, now with tray and kettle it tow. Where she got it, it's hard to say. The side looks beaten in slightly, the top hardly fits. Frankenstein-ing the parts together and it has the look of something left behind. Thrown out and easily replaced.]

[Thankfully one man's trash? Is always another's treasure.]

[Greed chases the woman's chin with his thumb and smiles. This time, it's without his teeth, without that upper-lip curled to the devil's best flavor. It's charming this time, appreciative and most of all, it's genuine. He swipes his hand under the tray and frames her hand with his own.] Thanks lovely. Go ahead and take a break. S'been a long night.

[He releases her, but not before brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. It seems she understands - a silent sort of dance done between two people that know better. Mutual respect drawn on a secretive line. She leaves with a bit of a small on her face, despite the sleepiness that's been slowly creeping in under her eyes.] Yeah, sure. [She says when she turns. A hand goes above her head as she leaves through the back.]

[Greed watches her go before setting the tray down for Senketsu. It's the first time he can really got get a good look at those claws and it pries his attention back to the conversation. The Sin has to whistle in appreciation. They aren't as black as his, but it's a start.] That is something - ! Ha, can't really deny that. Call it one of the perks. [Of what, he doesn't say. Not yet, at least. Instead, the Sin procures a mug for his guest. One flip from the lip and he snatches it from the air.] Not exactly human, are you?

[The homunculus moves in to put the mug down. He's close when he slithers and his wrist bumps against those claws. Whether it's intentional or not, he doesn't make an inclination towards either. His eyebrows just dip into small U(s) and his eyes flick from beneath his sunglasses. The slight fluttering illuminates under the bar-lights, allowing a small sneak behind.] Guess you wouldn't hold it against me, then. [With the tips of his fingers on the rim of Senketsu's mug, it starts again. A chain reaction that turns the tips of his fingers hooked, his skin black. It swallows across like oil with a mind all its own. And it's then that that tattoo of his becomes more prominent. Red and stark across his skin and as the black moves in, the image is clear:]

[It's an Ourboros. The serpent on the constant need to consume its own tail. Almost infinite, yet not quiet there.]

[Ryuuko's not exactly sure what to make of the display between him and the woman, watching them with a discomforted gaze that speaks volumes of her own inexperience in the world of men and women and relationships. she eyes away from the two of them, plucking her glass off the bar top and taking a swig of the potent concoction he's conjured up for her. the sting of brandy flooding down her throat is more than strong enough to distract her from any awkward tension she'd been withholding.

her brows furrow at Senketsu's passing comment, openly confused about his relating his own claws to Greed. but thats because she hadn't seen, too busy focusing elsewhere to notice Greed's special technique he'd used on the fruit. she would have commented long before him, otherwise. a gear shaped pupil follows Greed's hand from over the top of her glass, noting the way he brushes against Senketsu-- assumptions are made, but she says nothing, only a slight narrowing of the eyes before they widen twice as big as his skin begins to turn. the liquor glass lowers from her lips and she blinks a few times, to make sure her eyes aren't playing tricks on her-- the hell did you put in this drink sir.

she doesn't know what to think of the change, really, but it's definitely one hell of an attention grabber. speaking of, the tattoo is like nothing she's ever seen before, and she's honestly surprised she didn't catch it earlier.]

What's that, a dragon?

[While Ryuuko is entirely engaged with her preoccupation of physical affection, Senketsu's attention is drawn elsewhere: the curious drink she ordered...it's subtle, but he can tell it's not exactly a pleasant experience. Strange. What is the purpose of a drink that doesn't taste well...?

When Greed has his attention again, he gives a sheepish smile, even before he provides a demonstration of his ability.]

I wouldn't hold it against anyone. Look at me!

[He's about as obviously non-human as they get. The attention he gets for it...well, he could pass. But with this conversation, he figures it's okay to stare. Especially when Greed is showing off.]

Ah, that's...

[Curious. He's fascinated but also clueless as to the significance of the change, which makes it difficult to figure out exactly what to say.]

Wasn't about to say anything. Besides, it's not like I have much room to judge. [The tips of his claws scrape at the side of the mug, making the old paint peel away from the porcelain. Greed clicks a talon once to make it chime and the whole thing washes back. A tide of inky-black on the withdraw, slowly tumbling down. But his face droops a bit when Ryuuko remarks on the tattoo. Almost playful.]

Good eye, lovely. I wouldn't really know - didn't have a choice in the matter. [He says as his hand flips out, revealing just flesh and blood again.] I told you before - I'm not really human. Never was. [As he talks, his eyes flick back to Senketsu. He's right when he says it - he's about as non-human as one can get. But in a world where the possibilities are endless, the human and the not-so-much aren't as fantastical. Maybe in the broad-stream of the native public they're a wonder. And maybe to him, he has a particular sort of fascination. But anything is possible and the homunculus' smile grows to a sliver. As if he's remembering something.]

You two know each other pretty well, huh? [Idle conversation and Greed snatches a written slip from the counter to take a gander. Before it goes barrel-up into a trash bin. A bottle of gin follows and a hefty glass is flipped up from underneath the bar.] No, didn't think you would. Not exactly normal, are you?

[Because despite the obvious elephant in the room, Ryuuko has her own quirks that have caught his wandering eye. Her attitude, for one. But there's that something in her eye. Moving, watching. Greed's lips press together and his heel rolls back, finally releasing the trigger on the trash can. The lid underneath smacks shut with a metallic twang.]

So - what's your story?

[So the bar scene isn't your thing. Or maybe you've got some information to tell or an ability to show off. It'll be the wee-hours of morning when most have left - a prime time to bring the devil his due.]

[And he's got the time to spare.]

[Here for business? As per custom, Greed's at the head of the bar. Mixing drinks, passing out beer by the bottle. He might disappear for a while and one of his will take his place, but it's the best place to grab his attention.]

[Or you could pull him aside if it's something else you're after.]

[As a side note: there's a "Now Hiring" sign in the window. Scribbled out and nailed to the inside. Think this is the place for you? Go find the man in charge. Available anytime, anyplace.]

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➥ DANCE FLOOR |

➥ PRIVATE BOOTHS |

➥ GAMBLING PARLOR |

➥ OUTSIDE |

make way for the tl;dr queen

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jumpin' in on this jam

hollah!!

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fuuuu im so sorry for the delay!! see: my week from job hunting hell

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➥ AFTER HOURS |

➥ WHENEVER |