"It's a condition." The overweight company manager leaned forward over his old, broken desk and sighed. There was just something wrong about this Elentir Starwatcher. Besides the fact that he was so deathly pale, the way the boy sat just didn't seem right. "I promise, Mr. Wilson, I am a diligent worker and can perform to the caliber of any hum—other member of this company." The manager scratched his bald head and scowled.
"And you say your ears…they were born like that?" Elentir rolled his eyes as discreetly as possible and nodded.
"Yes, sir, they were born like this." Mr. Wilson strained his head to look at the pointed tips of the young man's ears. They were simply not right. Elentir looked at how Mr. Wilson's face was turning from intrigue to disgust. "It's not contagious or anything," he reassured. "You know, I did happen to notice a man with one eye working at the front desk. My ears are no different." Mr. Wilson remained still, eyes fixated on Elentir's ears.
"Where does the name Starwatcher come from?" he dronely inquired. Elentir sighed.
"I'm not sure, sir, but overseas." Mr. Wilson nodded and looked over the resume again.
"Well, you are very qualified for the job. How about I give you a call in a few days after I've made my decision." Elentir smiled and stood, extending his hand. Mr. Wilson shook it with a forced smile.
"Thank you, sir; I'll be waiting for it." With that, Elentir strode to the door. Mr. Wilson stood also.
"Oh, Mr. Starwatcher." Elentir turned to face Mr. Wilson again. "Listen," he began, "I don't know what the trends are with you younger folk, and I am perfectly fine with whatever religion or…preference you have, just…may I make a suggestion?" Elentir stopped cold, having no clue of what this man spoke of. "Your…hair," Mr. Wilson said as if he was uttering some horrible disease. "It's so long, it's just…" Elentir dug very deep for a smile and nodded.
"Good day, Mr. Wilson." The manager smiled and sat again. Never was Elentir so glad to be out of an office. The receptionist could understand his pain as soon as the door behind him was closed and burst into giggles.
"How was your interview, Mr. Starwatcher?" she asked. Elentir shook his head, blue eyes wide with desperation.
"I'm…sorry, I don't know if I'll be coming back." The young woman smiled and nodded.
"Mr. Wilson is a very strange individual, but he pays well, and he did employ that man with one eye."
"I know I'm just here for an interview," Elentir said worriedly, "but would you consider my…ears…to be a distraction? I mean, they don't hinder me in any way as an employee." The receptionist thought for a moment, looking over Elentir's beautiful gift.
"No, I wouldn't see a problem at all. You've been here three days asking for a meeting, Mr. Starwatcher, and I'm already used to them." Elentir smiled, his sleek features lighting up.
"Thank you for your time and concern. Quel're."
"What?"
Elentir paused, realizing what he had said.
"Good day." The receptionist smiled and waved. Elentir hurriedly left the building and stopped at the sidewalk for a taxi on the busy street. The woman watched him go with an odd expression.
"A funny guy, that Starwatcher."