Penny For Your Thoughts? v2 (Cyberpunk/Va11 Hall-A/AU)
- Thread starter DaBlueSky
- Start date
- Original
DaBlueSky
Writer's Block Incarnate
- Location
- South Dakota
Aren't dystopian settings fantastic?
Great to read about, not so much to actually live there.
DaBlueSky
Writer's Block Incarnate
- Location
- South Dakota
Mmm. That's a given, I think.
Still, you SV lot are super sensible. Personally, I would've just chosen "yeah, gimme money!" for the sake of it. I don't make very good decisions.
1.4 A Strange Encounter
DaBlueSky
Writer's Block Incarnate
- Location
- South Dakota
AN: Sorry for the super quick update, but my muse has been on fire with this Quest. Been checking it every hour. I need to write this or I won't be able to go to sleep lol
[X] "I'm fine. Seriously." [No change]
September 26th
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.
11:00 A.M.
Rising from a mess of blankets, Jill sat up groggily as her alarm screeched at her. Sitting at the edge of her bed, Jill rubbed her eyes lethargically, trying to work up the willpower to actually rise for the day. Her sleep had been heavy, her morning breath could attest to that. Raising her arms, Jill stretched, wincing as she heard her back crack. Morning ritual complete, she hopped off the bed and hit the "Snooze" button. She never trusted herself to actually stay awake, so the alarm would blare in another ten minutes.
Sighing heavily, Jill made her way over to her drawers, grabbing clean underwear and a bra. Whether they matched or not wasn't really all that important. Rapidly blinking the last dregs of sleep, Jill fumbled to her shower. With a hiss, a steady stream of hot water poured through the showerhead. Other than the water, there was blissful silence. No whining corporate drones who'd try to exploit her. No worrying about looking over her shoulder while walking the streets at night. And no so-called parents and their feeble attempts of help to--
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.
Jill let her head thump against the shower wall. Right, the damn alarm. With her hot shower cut unceremoniously short, Jill quickly dried herself off and shut off the alarm. With the towel now wrapped around her hair, Jill dressed, snatching a quick glance at the clock; 11:37. Hmm. Her shift started at 1:30. Plenty of time to let her hair dry out and for the 20 minute walk down to the bar. With a feeling of satisfaction, Jill tossed on a white long sleeved shirt at stomped out to the kitchen, buttoning it up and straightening out the collar.
A quick glance through the fridge revealed that, surprise, it was just as empty as it was yesterday! Her gallon of milk was dangerously low and, alarmingly enough, closing in on that expiration date. Well, no one could claim that Jill was wasteful. Finding a box of unsugared flakes, Jill set about to preparing her mediocre breakfast/lunch. Just as she was about to settle down on her couch, there was a tiny whistle from her PolyLot E-pad. A message?
Spoon in hand, Jill's heart sank as she saw who it was from. Building management. Munching down on her flakes, Jill, with a little hesitation, tapped the e-mail to open it,
[X] "I'm fine. Seriously." [No change]
September 26th
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.
11:00 A.M.
Rising from a mess of blankets, Jill sat up groggily as her alarm screeched at her. Sitting at the edge of her bed, Jill rubbed her eyes lethargically, trying to work up the willpower to actually rise for the day. Her sleep had been heavy, her morning breath could attest to that. Raising her arms, Jill stretched, wincing as she heard her back crack. Morning ritual complete, she hopped off the bed and hit the "Snooze" button. She never trusted herself to actually stay awake, so the alarm would blare in another ten minutes.
Sighing heavily, Jill made her way over to her drawers, grabbing clean underwear and a bra. Whether they matched or not wasn't really all that important. Rapidly blinking the last dregs of sleep, Jill fumbled to her shower. With a hiss, a steady stream of hot water poured through the showerhead. Other than the water, there was blissful silence. No whining corporate drones who'd try to exploit her. No worrying about looking over her shoulder while walking the streets at night. And no so-called parents and their feeble attempts of help to--
Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.
Jill let her head thump against the shower wall. Right, the damn alarm. With her hot shower cut unceremoniously short, Jill quickly dried herself off and shut off the alarm. With the towel now wrapped around her hair, Jill dressed, snatching a quick glance at the clock; 11:37. Hmm. Her shift started at 1:30. Plenty of time to let her hair dry out and for the 20 minute walk down to the bar. With a feeling of satisfaction, Jill tossed on a white long sleeved shirt at stomped out to the kitchen, buttoning it up and straightening out the collar.
A quick glance through the fridge revealed that, surprise, it was just as empty as it was yesterday! Her gallon of milk was dangerously low and, alarmingly enough, closing in on that expiration date. Well, no one could claim that Jill was wasteful. Finding a box of unsugared flakes, Jill set about to preparing her mediocre breakfast/lunch. Just as she was about to settle down on her couch, there was a tiny whistle from her PolyLot E-pad. A message?
Spoon in hand, Jill's heart sank as she saw who it was from. Building management. Munching down on her flakes, Jill, with a little hesitation, tapped the e-mail to open it,
Just a reminder, tenets.
Rent is due exactly one week from now, on October the 1st. As you all know, as per corporate suggestion, all rent has been equalized, regardless of which apartment you use. Final call on rent will be collected on the 5th. Per usual, every day past the 1st incurs a late fee of 50 credits per day unpaid. If the rent, and late fees, are not paid on the 5th, your lease will be terminated and you will have 10 days to vacate the premises.
Thank you!
Rent is due exactly one week from now, on October the 1st. As you all know, as per corporate suggestion, all rent has been equalized, regardless of which apartment you use. Final call on rent will be collected on the 5th. Per usual, every day past the 1st incurs a late fee of 50 credits per day unpaid. If the rent, and late fees, are not paid on the 5th, your lease will be terminated and you will have 10 days to vacate the premises.
Thank you!
650 credits was the rent. As of right now, Jill had 350 of it sitting untouched in her account. Thankfully, her paycheck would come in on the 29th. Cutting it pretty close. But she'd survive...probably. Bringing the pad to her couch, Jill spent her time reading through articles on the news site, The Augmented Eye. Before she knew it, the clock had hit 12:55.
Time for work.
Bank Account tab added to Important Info!
As expected, the bar was empty. Too early in the day for anyone to be unproductive. Now Jill felt a bit foolish. She'd walked to Valhalla as quickly as possible, thinking she was going to be a few minutes late! Instead, all she got was a written note from her boss, Dana,
I've got some things to take care of! Hold down the fort, would you? And there was a crack in the flooring. Did someone wrestle around last night?
Turns out that crack in the floor had been from that old man crashing into it last night. He's still causing problems, even hours after he left. With a bit of trepidation, Jill grabbed a rag and set about to wiping the tabletops in the booths, trying not to think about the words that Dana would probably have for her when finally came back. With a bottle of strong disinfectant in her hand, Jill's nose wrinkled as she sprayed it. It was a little runny, thanks to her walk through the rain last night.
Suddenly, the doors whipped open, and a--man? woman?--stepped in. They were covered in body armor, a mesh of white and grey coloring and trims. A full helmet with a visor obscured their face, so Jill couldn't tell their gender. Heart thumping, Jill cautiously made her way over to the bar counter, and carefully set the rag and disinfectant down. That armor and insignia was well known through out Glitch City.
This person belonged to the White Knights; a corporation controlled militant police force. They were well known for suppressing riots and providing security for high profile CEO's. In other words, they didn't bother showing up unless there was a high possibility of impending violence. Not only that, this person entered the bar wearing their full armor. That couldn't be good but Jill still had to ascertain their intentions.
"Uhm, good afternoon, sir. A-are you here on business or pleasure?" A slight stutter.
"Yeah, I'm here for a drink!" A woman's voice. Peppy too. A complete contrast to their rather imposing appearance.
"Understood. Anything in particular?"
The Knight settled down onto a stool, and shrugged her shoulders, "Something sweet, I suppose."
Time to mix!
[] Consult your known recipes
-[] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
New drink?
Select base:
[] Rezzin's 151 Dark rum: hard liquor, yet strangely sweet. 75% APV
[] Amontillado Hardwin: Crisp and fresh. Has notes of nuttiness in the aftertaste. Medium 22% APV.
[] Pinot G8Gio: A wine with a lemony aftertaste. 8% APV
Select mix
[] Sparkling Water: Carbonated water. No taste alone and no alcoholic content.
[] Aged vermouth: Fortified Wine. Not sweet.
[] ...Orange juice?
I've got some things to take care of! Hold down the fort, would you? And there was a crack in the flooring. Did someone wrestle around last night?
Turns out that crack in the floor had been from that old man crashing into it last night. He's still causing problems, even hours after he left. With a bit of trepidation, Jill grabbed a rag and set about to wiping the tabletops in the booths, trying not to think about the words that Dana would probably have for her when finally came back. With a bottle of strong disinfectant in her hand, Jill's nose wrinkled as she sprayed it. It was a little runny, thanks to her walk through the rain last night.
Suddenly, the doors whipped open, and a--man? woman?--stepped in. They were covered in body armor, a mesh of white and grey coloring and trims. A full helmet with a visor obscured their face, so Jill couldn't tell their gender. Heart thumping, Jill cautiously made her way over to the bar counter, and carefully set the rag and disinfectant down. That armor and insignia was well known through out Glitch City.
This person belonged to the White Knights; a corporation controlled militant police force. They were well known for suppressing riots and providing security for high profile CEO's. In other words, they didn't bother showing up unless there was a high possibility of impending violence. Not only that, this person entered the bar wearing their full armor. That couldn't be good but Jill still had to ascertain their intentions.
"Uhm, good afternoon, sir. A-are you here on business or pleasure?" A slight stutter.
"Yeah, I'm here for a drink!" A woman's voice. Peppy too. A complete contrast to their rather imposing appearance.
"Understood. Anything in particular?"
The Knight settled down onto a stool, and shrugged her shoulders, "Something sweet, I suppose."
Time to mix!
[] Consult your known recipes
-[] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
New drink?
Select base:
[] Rezzin's 151 Dark rum: hard liquor, yet strangely sweet. 75% APV
[] Amontillado Hardwin: Crisp and fresh. Has notes of nuttiness in the aftertaste. Medium 22% APV.
[] Pinot G8Gio: A wine with a lemony aftertaste. 8% APV
Select mix
[] Sparkling Water: Carbonated water. No taste alone and no alcoholic content.
[] Aged vermouth: Fortified Wine. Not sweet.
[] ...Orange juice?
[X] Consult your known recipes
-[X] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
It should be sweet enough for her, while not having too high of an alcohol content in case she needs to work later.
There's also irony in the name
-[X] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
It should be sweet enough for her, while not having too high of an alcohol content in case she needs to work later.
There's also irony in the name
- Location
- Chicago
[X] Consult your known recipes
-[X] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
Neither rum and sparkling water nor amontillado and orange juice sound particularly appetizing. Amontillado and vermouth might work, but it isn't sweet.
-[X] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
Neither rum and sparkling water nor amontillado and orange juice sound particularly appetizing. Amontillado and vermouth might work, but it isn't sweet.
1.5 Not As Scary As I Thought
DaBlueSky
Writer's Block Incarnate
- Location
- South Dakota
[X] Consult your known recipes
-[X] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
Hmm. Jill turned away from the White Knight, looking through the rack of drinks, thinking. Almost by reflex, Jill's neck twitched a bit as goosebumps were raised along it, and her eyes darted back at the Knight. From behind that helmet, Jill couldn't discern a damn thing. With a nervous flutter in her heart, Jill felt her shaking hand instinctively pull a cigarette out of her pocket. Before she knew it, it was in her mouth, and she was hastily checking her other pockets for a lighter.
She muttered softly, "Ah, dammit. I think I forgot..."
The Knight's head shifted a bit in interest, "Need a light, Ms. Bartender?"
Jill blinked, "Uh, yeah, I suppose so."
Reaching into one of the many mesh pouches secured around her armor, the Knight earnestly leaned forward with an electronic lighter, "Here!"
"Ah, thanks."
There was a second of momentary silence as Jill inhaled, feeling the smoke drift into her lungs, then a lazy exhale. No more than a moment later, Jill's hand stopped shaking. A light-headed hazy feeling of pleasantness overcame her, and Jill closed her eyes, relishing in those few precious seconds. The tightness in her lungs calmed her beating heart and, after the nicotine rush, Jill felt a moment of clarity after her head cleared. Last cigarette in the pack though. Right, the drink.
With her nerves calmed, Jill went through the motions. The Knight couldn't tell her exactly what she wanted, but it was good to stick with what you know, right? With that in mind, she grabbed the bottles: Manzadilla and aged vermouth. Still no lemon garnish though. Shame. As the sound of clinking glasses and sloshing liquids resounded through the quiet room, Jill stole another glance at the Knight, hesitation in her voice as she asked,
"So, any chance of you taking off the helmet?"
The Knight jumped, "Oh! I actually forgot I was wearing it. It's just so comfortable, y'know?"
No, actually.
With a clatter, the woman set her helmet on the counter, revealing light-purplish short hair that settled around the nape of her neck. Bright brown eyes watched Jill as she put the finishing touches on the Armored Cocktail. Much the same as her voice, just the appearance of the woman didn't appear half as imposing as her armor. Maybe it was the uniformity and reputation that did that? Well, whatever the case, her drink was done.
Jill handed it to the Knight, who promptly downed half of it in one swig, "Hmm, not as sweet as I'd hoped. Or maybe you have a different definition of sweet? Maybe what I consider sweet you consider bitter? Anyhoo, it was still pretty good! Thanks, Bartender lady."
+2 Happiness!
"Aha, just call me Jill."
"Oooh, is that short for Jillian? No?"
The Knight was as curious as a puppy, "Eh, I won't deny it's short for something else, but literally only one person calls me by my full name."
"I see! Well, Jill, I super appreciate the drink. I better introduce myself too. I'm Sei .P Asagiri of the 765th Valkyrie Division, at your service!"
That peaked Jill's interest, "The Valkyrie Division? I didn't know the White Knights had a division named that."
Sei finished her drink, carefully placing it on the counter as she spoke, "Not many do. The White Knights are more well known for our riot suppression and security details. Little divisions like us usually get swept under the rug."
"You mean the White Knights do more than just oppress people? Who knew?"
"Geh, oppression's a strong word, don't you think? The Knights are pretty much the only police force in Glitch City. Sure, we're funded by corps, but what isn't these days? Besides, the Valkyries don't participate in fights and riots and things like that."
"Then what do you do?" Jill crossed her arms, her brow furrowed. She had no personal hatred of the White Knights, but the downtrodden community of the Barrens had no love for them. There were plenty of stories about Knight brutality. Whenever something like that came to light, the corps just gave the Knights a slap on the wrist and everyone moved on. But some people didn't.
"Well, the Valkyries actually deal with the aftermath of a riot. We heal people, reinstate damaged homes, and there's a portion that liaises heavily with district firemen."
"That's...actually pretty admirable. I feel like the corps would broadcast that kind of thing though, for public relations and all that."
"I guess no one pitched them the idea yet. The most important work is often the most unassuming and unglamourous. Why talk about rebuilding homes when there's much more exciting stuff like the riot suppression division fighting anarchists?"
Jill conceded, wiping Sei's glass before setting it in the sink, "Fair point, I suppose."
"You're a nice person, Jill. I'd love to talk more but I, uhh, got to get back to work. I think my break has been over for ten minutes now..."
With a nervous giggle, Sei handed over a cred stick as payment. Jill accepted it but something was bothering her, "We don't see White Knights often down here. Why did you come to Valhalla, anyway?"
"Huh? Oh, someone I know is a regular here. She recommended it to me!" Sei called over her shoulder as she sailed out the door.
Then, Jill noticed something, "Hey, wait! You forgot your--", the doors slammed shut heavily, "--helmet."
Grabbing it, Jill examined it closely. A memento of a cordial meeting, I guess?
"What am I supposed to do with this?"
Met Sei P. Asagiri! Added to Relationships tab.
Some hours later, with the sun slowly setting in the sky, Jill was leaning against the counter, bored. A few customers had streamed in after Sei had left, but none of them wanted conversation. So, instead, Jill provided them with drink. Her boss, Dana, hadn't shown up either. She's too damn whimsical, Jill sighed heavily. Besides Jill, the only person in the building was a hooded man who'd sat in the corner. The patrons would slowly fill up the bar though. Keyword being slowly.
Well, I'm sure Dana won't fault me for messing around a bit. Taking out an electronic pad, Jill once again dove into the Matrix, searching for articles on The Augmented Eye. Once again, click bait titles jumped out at her, as well as plenty of gossip columns. There was as much crap as there was quality. It was a 1:1 ratio. Besides, only the Eye covered everything.
Select an article to read!
[] White Knight negotiater talks down suicidal girl!
[] The Latest on Glitch City's rising star...
[] 10 easy to make full home course meals! Stun your date with...
Just as Jill finished reading and set the pad down, someone stomped over loudly in front of her, "How can I help you--bwegh?!"
The golden visor of Sei's helmet was merely inches from Jill's own face. Scrambling backwards, heart racing, Jill stuttered, "Is that you, Sei?!"
A woman's voice, a little rougher than Sei's answered, "Sei? Who's that?"
"Oh, Boss, it's just you. You scared me. Why are you wearing that?"
Dana, Jill's boss, replied, muffled under the helmet, "I don't know. I was just about to ask whose rather comfortable helmet this was. It was just sitting on the counter. Can't help but get curious when I see White Knight equipment in my establishment."
"Yeah, a Knight visited earlier for a drink. She forgot that. I was kinda hoping she'd come back for it, but it's been some time, and I don't know what to do with it."
"Eh, Just keep it behind the counter for now." With a grunt, Dana took the helmet off, her mechanical arm glinting in the light. Handing it back to Jill, Dana suddenly brightened up, "Oh yeah! Got some good news, I guess. We're getting a part timer!"
"That's nice. Does that mean I get the weekends off now?"
"Heh, don't kid yourself, Jill. I did say part timer."
"Eh, had to try. Is that the only good news?"
Dana fished a bottle from behind the counter, popping it open and taking a swig, "We're also getting a jukebox installed. There's that, I guess."
"Wow...exciting stuff..."
"Don't be rude. Well, I'll be in the back doing some paperwork. Looks like you've got a bit of work cut out for you as well. I'll be out to help after I'm finished" Dana nodded towards the people who'd entered the bar. Well, time to actually work now. Even with the steady amount of people at the counter, Jill also saw a few outliers who were waiting for Jill to come to them.
Serve an outlier!
[] The big bellied man who was looking around imperiously.
[] A cat-eared girl with long flowing brown hair. Meta types don't usually come to this bar. How unusual.
[] ....Is that the old man again?!
[] A grumpy young man with slicked back violet hair.
Dana added to Relationships tab!
-[X] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
Hmm. Jill turned away from the White Knight, looking through the rack of drinks, thinking. Almost by reflex, Jill's neck twitched a bit as goosebumps were raised along it, and her eyes darted back at the Knight. From behind that helmet, Jill couldn't discern a damn thing. With a nervous flutter in her heart, Jill felt her shaking hand instinctively pull a cigarette out of her pocket. Before she knew it, it was in her mouth, and she was hastily checking her other pockets for a lighter.
She muttered softly, "Ah, dammit. I think I forgot..."
The Knight's head shifted a bit in interest, "Need a light, Ms. Bartender?"
Jill blinked, "Uh, yeah, I suppose so."
Reaching into one of the many mesh pouches secured around her armor, the Knight earnestly leaned forward with an electronic lighter, "Here!"
"Ah, thanks."
There was a second of momentary silence as Jill inhaled, feeling the smoke drift into her lungs, then a lazy exhale. No more than a moment later, Jill's hand stopped shaking. A light-headed hazy feeling of pleasantness overcame her, and Jill closed her eyes, relishing in those few precious seconds. The tightness in her lungs calmed her beating heart and, after the nicotine rush, Jill felt a moment of clarity after her head cleared. Last cigarette in the pack though. Right, the drink.
With her nerves calmed, Jill went through the motions. The Knight couldn't tell her exactly what she wanted, but it was good to stick with what you know, right? With that in mind, she grabbed the bottles: Manzadilla and aged vermouth. Still no lemon garnish though. Shame. As the sound of clinking glasses and sloshing liquids resounded through the quiet room, Jill stole another glance at the Knight, hesitation in her voice as she asked,
"So, any chance of you taking off the helmet?"
The Knight jumped, "Oh! I actually forgot I was wearing it. It's just so comfortable, y'know?"
No, actually.
With a clatter, the woman set her helmet on the counter, revealing light-purplish short hair that settled around the nape of her neck. Bright brown eyes watched Jill as she put the finishing touches on the Armored Cocktail. Much the same as her voice, just the appearance of the woman didn't appear half as imposing as her armor. Maybe it was the uniformity and reputation that did that? Well, whatever the case, her drink was done.
Jill handed it to the Knight, who promptly downed half of it in one swig, "Hmm, not as sweet as I'd hoped. Or maybe you have a different definition of sweet? Maybe what I consider sweet you consider bitter? Anyhoo, it was still pretty good! Thanks, Bartender lady."
+2 Happiness!
"Aha, just call me Jill."
"Oooh, is that short for Jillian? No?"
The Knight was as curious as a puppy, "Eh, I won't deny it's short for something else, but literally only one person calls me by my full name."
"I see! Well, Jill, I super appreciate the drink. I better introduce myself too. I'm Sei .P Asagiri of the 765th Valkyrie Division, at your service!"
That peaked Jill's interest, "The Valkyrie Division? I didn't know the White Knights had a division named that."
Sei finished her drink, carefully placing it on the counter as she spoke, "Not many do. The White Knights are more well known for our riot suppression and security details. Little divisions like us usually get swept under the rug."
"You mean the White Knights do more than just oppress people? Who knew?"
"Geh, oppression's a strong word, don't you think? The Knights are pretty much the only police force in Glitch City. Sure, we're funded by corps, but what isn't these days? Besides, the Valkyries don't participate in fights and riots and things like that."
"Then what do you do?" Jill crossed her arms, her brow furrowed. She had no personal hatred of the White Knights, but the downtrodden community of the Barrens had no love for them. There were plenty of stories about Knight brutality. Whenever something like that came to light, the corps just gave the Knights a slap on the wrist and everyone moved on. But some people didn't.
"Well, the Valkyries actually deal with the aftermath of a riot. We heal people, reinstate damaged homes, and there's a portion that liaises heavily with district firemen."
"That's...actually pretty admirable. I feel like the corps would broadcast that kind of thing though, for public relations and all that."
"I guess no one pitched them the idea yet. The most important work is often the most unassuming and unglamourous. Why talk about rebuilding homes when there's much more exciting stuff like the riot suppression division fighting anarchists?"
Jill conceded, wiping Sei's glass before setting it in the sink, "Fair point, I suppose."
"You're a nice person, Jill. I'd love to talk more but I, uhh, got to get back to work. I think my break has been over for ten minutes now..."
With a nervous giggle, Sei handed over a cred stick as payment. Jill accepted it but something was bothering her, "We don't see White Knights often down here. Why did you come to Valhalla, anyway?"
"Huh? Oh, someone I know is a regular here. She recommended it to me!" Sei called over her shoulder as she sailed out the door.
Then, Jill noticed something, "Hey, wait! You forgot your--", the doors slammed shut heavily, "--helmet."
Grabbing it, Jill examined it closely. A memento of a cordial meeting, I guess?
"What am I supposed to do with this?"
Met Sei P. Asagiri! Added to Relationships tab.
Some hours later, with the sun slowly setting in the sky, Jill was leaning against the counter, bored. A few customers had streamed in after Sei had left, but none of them wanted conversation. So, instead, Jill provided them with drink. Her boss, Dana, hadn't shown up either. She's too damn whimsical, Jill sighed heavily. Besides Jill, the only person in the building was a hooded man who'd sat in the corner. The patrons would slowly fill up the bar though. Keyword being slowly.
Well, I'm sure Dana won't fault me for messing around a bit. Taking out an electronic pad, Jill once again dove into the Matrix, searching for articles on The Augmented Eye. Once again, click bait titles jumped out at her, as well as plenty of gossip columns. There was as much crap as there was quality. It was a 1:1 ratio. Besides, only the Eye covered everything.
Select an article to read!
[] White Knight negotiater talks down suicidal girl!
[] The Latest on Glitch City's rising star...
[] 10 easy to make full home course meals! Stun your date with...
Just as Jill finished reading and set the pad down, someone stomped over loudly in front of her, "How can I help you--bwegh?!"
The golden visor of Sei's helmet was merely inches from Jill's own face. Scrambling backwards, heart racing, Jill stuttered, "Is that you, Sei?!"
A woman's voice, a little rougher than Sei's answered, "Sei? Who's that?"
"Oh, Boss, it's just you. You scared me. Why are you wearing that?"
Dana, Jill's boss, replied, muffled under the helmet, "I don't know. I was just about to ask whose rather comfortable helmet this was. It was just sitting on the counter. Can't help but get curious when I see White Knight equipment in my establishment."
"Yeah, a Knight visited earlier for a drink. She forgot that. I was kinda hoping she'd come back for it, but it's been some time, and I don't know what to do with it."
"Eh, Just keep it behind the counter for now." With a grunt, Dana took the helmet off, her mechanical arm glinting in the light. Handing it back to Jill, Dana suddenly brightened up, "Oh yeah! Got some good news, I guess. We're getting a part timer!"
"That's nice. Does that mean I get the weekends off now?"
"Heh, don't kid yourself, Jill. I did say part timer."
"Eh, had to try. Is that the only good news?"
Dana fished a bottle from behind the counter, popping it open and taking a swig, "We're also getting a jukebox installed. There's that, I guess."
"Wow...exciting stuff..."
"Don't be rude. Well, I'll be in the back doing some paperwork. Looks like you've got a bit of work cut out for you as well. I'll be out to help after I'm finished" Dana nodded towards the people who'd entered the bar. Well, time to actually work now. Even with the steady amount of people at the counter, Jill also saw a few outliers who were waiting for Jill to come to them.
Serve an outlier!
[] The big bellied man who was looking around imperiously.
[] A cat-eared girl with long flowing brown hair. Meta types don't usually come to this bar. How unusual.
[] ....Is that the old man again?!
[] A grumpy young man with slicked back violet hair.
Dana added to Relationships tab!
Last edited:
Glint
Takina Inoue
- Location
- 『 』
[X] The Latest on Glitch City's rising star...
[X] A cat-eared girl with long flowing brown hair. Meta types don't usually come to this bar. How unusual.
It's Rho. Doesn't need reasons. @_@
[X] A cat-eared girl with long flowing brown hair. Meta types don't usually come to this bar. How unusual.
It's Rho. Doesn't need reasons. @_@
- Location
- Chicago
[X] White Knight negotiater talks down suicidal girl!
[X] ....Is that the old man again?!
Develop the old man thread.
[X] ....Is that the old man again?!
Develop the old man thread.
1.6 Cat Paw!
DaBlueSky
Writer's Block Incarnate
- Location
- South Dakota
[X] White Knight negotiater talks down suicidal girl!
[X] A cat-eared girl with long flowing brown hair. Meta types don't usually come to this bar. How unusual.
+3 Happiness!
With Dana quickly returning from her bout of paperwork ("Damned things make squirm. I can't sill still for that long!"), the ebb and flow of customers was quickly reduced. With a sigh of relief, Jill started putting glasses into the kitchen sink. I'd hate to be the one who has to wash all of that. She could still remember the feeling of chemical burns from her first large washing from the cheap soap that Dana bought. The memory of it made Jill unconsciously rub her hands, faintly remembering the prickle of pain whenever anything touched the exposed skin. Luckily, after that ordeal, Dana made sure to wash the glasses whenever there was a large amount.
With a grimace, Jill turned around. The earlier activity from the crowd of patrons made the thought of just standing around seem dull, so with a prudent eye, she quickly scanned the room for a customer to serve. A woman with a pair of cat ears caught her eye, surprising Jill. An Animal Boomer? Those were a rare sight nowadays, especially compared to a decade ago. Curious, Jill grabbed her e-pad and exited the counter, approaching the Boomer, noting the lack of a drinking partner.
Jill inquired politely, "Welcome to Valhalla, what can I get you?"
When the Boomer turned about fully, Jill reared back somewhat in shock. The woman's right eye was completely cybernetic, but instead of a simple eyeball, the surgery seemed far more invasive. With a metal base built into her eye socket, the clear "eye" seemingly floated inside it, little currents of electricity inside the sphere as it rotated. It was the most unique cybernetic that Jill had ever seen. Quickly, recovering, Jill focused on the e-pad, prepared to write down the woman's order.
Apparently missing Jill's surprise, the woman replied, "Here for two things. A friend of mine came by earlier. She wouldn't have happened to leave a helmet behind, did she?"
"Oh, yes! You must be talking about Sei. We kept it behind the counter for safekeeping. I can go and get it right now, Miss...?"
"I'm Stella Hoshii, and don't worry about it just yet. I'll retrieve it when I leave. Since I'm here, I might as well enjoy a drink. I'll just start off with a beer first."
"Ah, yes, certainly, Miss Hoshii."
"Just call me Stella. Jill, right? Sei talked about you earlier."
With a nod, Jill returned to the counter. A friend of Sei's? It was lucky that someone cared enough to come and get the helmet back. Jill wasn't under the impression that White Knight equipment was cheap. Grabbing a mug and filling it nearly to the brim with the fizzling amber beer, Jill made her way back to Stella, shaking her head at Sei's airheadedness. Graciously accepting, Stella quickly downed a large mouthful. Just as Jill was about to give her the bill, Stella's pocket rang.
"Excuse me for a second," Nimbly grabbing her phone, Stella held it against her ear, "Hey, I got your helmet. You should really stop leaving your stuff around, it costs money, you know. What? Why? A trauma center? Alright, I'll just hang around for a bit. Yeah, we'll try again another night."
Putting her phone back in her pocket, Stella looked up at Jill's inquisitive eyes, "That was Sei. Looks like her job is going to keep her away tonight. She just doesn't know when to stop working."
"Does she normally stand you up?"
"No, not really. Seems like there was a bit of an emergency tonight. At least I don't have to worry about her. The only place where's generally competent happens to be at the workplace. Anywhere else, well...I try to keep her in order."
"She seemed nice enough earlier. I guess she doesn't drink often, though, because she didn't know what to order."
Stifling a smile, Stella said, "That's why I try to get her out and about. Bars aren't usually her thing though. She must've popped in earlier on a whim."
Cat ears twitching eagerly, Stella brought the mug of beer to her lips and began drinking it heavily. Within seconds, it was empty. Wiping her lips, Stella glanced at Jill expectantly. Damn, that eye is a bit unnerving.
"Y-yes? Another beer?"
"Not this time. I want a...Actually, surprise me, Jill. You're a bartender, what would someone who likes beer drink?"
"Hah, alright, I'll be right back."
[] Consult your known recipes
-[] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
New Drink?
Select Base
[] Rezzin's 151 Dark rum: hard liquor, yet strangely sweet. 75% APV
[] Pinot G8Gio: A wine with a lemony aftertaste. 8% APV
[] Cream Lothar PX: A very young sherry. New stock and fairly fresh, all things considered. Cream, 24% APV
Select Mix
[] Tequila: Simple almost nameless brand. Low quality yet a flavor everyone recognizes.
[] Gin: Flavorless alcohol with a bit of a kick.
[] Aged Wine: Sweet.
[X] A cat-eared girl with long flowing brown hair. Meta types don't usually come to this bar. How unusual.
Breaking news!
There was panic at the headquarters of The Augmented Eye today as an unnamed woman threatened to throw herself from the rooftop. Personnel at the news station managed to keep her talking until members of the Valkyrie Division of the White Knights showed up. Quickly establishing a perimeter to keep the woman from becoming too anxious, a lone White Knight made their way to the top of the building to calm the woman down.
After nearly an hour of tense negotiations, the woman stepped down, and was carefully escorted to an emergency services vehicle for evaluation. Nothing was found wrong with her physically, so the White Knights suggested a psychiatric evaluation at one of their many trauma centers, to which the woman agreed. No details on the woman's identity have been released, nor anything about the Knight who stopped her from an untimely demise. We'll update this as new details emerge!
The Augmented Eye! We'll catch any news worthy event within our sight. Thank you for reading.
There was panic at the headquarters of The Augmented Eye today as an unnamed woman threatened to throw herself from the rooftop. Personnel at the news station managed to keep her talking until members of the Valkyrie Division of the White Knights showed up. Quickly establishing a perimeter to keep the woman from becoming too anxious, a lone White Knight made their way to the top of the building to calm the woman down.
After nearly an hour of tense negotiations, the woman stepped down, and was carefully escorted to an emergency services vehicle for evaluation. Nothing was found wrong with her physically, so the White Knights suggested a psychiatric evaluation at one of their many trauma centers, to which the woman agreed. No details on the woman's identity have been released, nor anything about the Knight who stopped her from an untimely demise. We'll update this as new details emerge!
The Augmented Eye! We'll catch any news worthy event within our sight. Thank you for reading.
+3 Happiness!
With Dana quickly returning from her bout of paperwork ("Damned things make squirm. I can't sill still for that long!"), the ebb and flow of customers was quickly reduced. With a sigh of relief, Jill started putting glasses into the kitchen sink. I'd hate to be the one who has to wash all of that. She could still remember the feeling of chemical burns from her first large washing from the cheap soap that Dana bought. The memory of it made Jill unconsciously rub her hands, faintly remembering the prickle of pain whenever anything touched the exposed skin. Luckily, after that ordeal, Dana made sure to wash the glasses whenever there was a large amount.
With a grimace, Jill turned around. The earlier activity from the crowd of patrons made the thought of just standing around seem dull, so with a prudent eye, she quickly scanned the room for a customer to serve. A woman with a pair of cat ears caught her eye, surprising Jill. An Animal Boomer? Those were a rare sight nowadays, especially compared to a decade ago. Curious, Jill grabbed her e-pad and exited the counter, approaching the Boomer, noting the lack of a drinking partner.
Jill inquired politely, "Welcome to Valhalla, what can I get you?"
When the Boomer turned about fully, Jill reared back somewhat in shock. The woman's right eye was completely cybernetic, but instead of a simple eyeball, the surgery seemed far more invasive. With a metal base built into her eye socket, the clear "eye" seemingly floated inside it, little currents of electricity inside the sphere as it rotated. It was the most unique cybernetic that Jill had ever seen. Quickly, recovering, Jill focused on the e-pad, prepared to write down the woman's order.
Apparently missing Jill's surprise, the woman replied, "Here for two things. A friend of mine came by earlier. She wouldn't have happened to leave a helmet behind, did she?"
"Oh, yes! You must be talking about Sei. We kept it behind the counter for safekeeping. I can go and get it right now, Miss...?"
"I'm Stella Hoshii, and don't worry about it just yet. I'll retrieve it when I leave. Since I'm here, I might as well enjoy a drink. I'll just start off with a beer first."
"Ah, yes, certainly, Miss Hoshii."
"Just call me Stella. Jill, right? Sei talked about you earlier."
With a nod, Jill returned to the counter. A friend of Sei's? It was lucky that someone cared enough to come and get the helmet back. Jill wasn't under the impression that White Knight equipment was cheap. Grabbing a mug and filling it nearly to the brim with the fizzling amber beer, Jill made her way back to Stella, shaking her head at Sei's airheadedness. Graciously accepting, Stella quickly downed a large mouthful. Just as Jill was about to give her the bill, Stella's pocket rang.
"Excuse me for a second," Nimbly grabbing her phone, Stella held it against her ear, "Hey, I got your helmet. You should really stop leaving your stuff around, it costs money, you know. What? Why? A trauma center? Alright, I'll just hang around for a bit. Yeah, we'll try again another night."
Putting her phone back in her pocket, Stella looked up at Jill's inquisitive eyes, "That was Sei. Looks like her job is going to keep her away tonight. She just doesn't know when to stop working."
"Does she normally stand you up?"
"No, not really. Seems like there was a bit of an emergency tonight. At least I don't have to worry about her. The only place where's generally competent happens to be at the workplace. Anywhere else, well...I try to keep her in order."
"She seemed nice enough earlier. I guess she doesn't drink often, though, because she didn't know what to order."
Stifling a smile, Stella said, "That's why I try to get her out and about. Bars aren't usually her thing though. She must've popped in earlier on a whim."
Cat ears twitching eagerly, Stella brought the mug of beer to her lips and began drinking it heavily. Within seconds, it was empty. Wiping her lips, Stella glanced at Jill expectantly. Damn, that eye is a bit unnerving.
"Y-yes? Another beer?"
"Not this time. I want a...Actually, surprise me, Jill. You're a bartender, what would someone who likes beer drink?"
"Hah, alright, I'll be right back."
[] Consult your known recipes
-[] Serve the Armored Cocktail? (Difficulty: Average) {Cocktails and Dreams! ensures 100% perfect creation}
New Drink?
Select Base
[] Rezzin's 151 Dark rum: hard liquor, yet strangely sweet. 75% APV
[] Pinot G8Gio: A wine with a lemony aftertaste. 8% APV
[] Cream Lothar PX: A very young sherry. New stock and fairly fresh, all things considered. Cream, 24% APV
Select Mix
[] Tequila: Simple almost nameless brand. Low quality yet a flavor everyone recognizes.
[] Gin: Flavorless alcohol with a bit of a kick.
[] Aged Wine: Sweet.
Last edited:
[X] Cream Lothar PX: A very young sherry. New stock and fairly fresh, all things considered. Cream, 24% APV
[X] Tequila: Simple almost nameless brand. Low quality yet a flavor everyone recognizes.
This seems like it would work nicely.
[X] Tequila: Simple almost nameless brand. Low quality yet a flavor everyone recognizes.
This seems like it would work nicely.