Man this is late, but the internet is a fickle mistress, and a cruel one at that. My desire to put out a chapter has even eclipsed my need to do my intro. Sigh. But now is tnot the time for sighs! This is easily one of my favorite chapters we've written. Also one of our longest yet again. Hopefully after the chaos of the holidays dies down we can get back to putting these out regularly again. Well will. Either way, shoutout to Harlotcat! I hope to see more reviews from you in the future! I hope all of my readers enjoy this chapter and I hope that I can stop using the word hope in my a/n this chapter. Please read, review, and enjoy.
Final Arc
Chapter 5: The Club
The thirteen students walked through the doors, into a place where beams of light sliced through the darkness, flashing, spinning, and almost pulsing with energy. The air hummed with conversation and music, loud thumps of bass shook the various technicolor drinks. A thin layer of smoke filled the air. The hunters in training had found their destination, a nightclub. Supposedly, this particular club had been destroyed recently in a fight between the owner and a firey blonde over a deal gone wrong, but stories like that could never be trusted for specifics, only general information. It was hardly of concern for the students, they were here to enjoy themselves, and as such the story was little more than idle conversation and joking speculation.
The thirteen stood debating for a moment, an attendant blocking their way, grumbling something about a list. However, one girl, a redhead in an elegant dress stepped forward, and displayed a jaw-dropping amount of lien. Before long, they found themselves in a private room, overlooking the dancefloor. The room had couches, it's own attendant, and specialized doors and windows with one way glass, and excellent soundproofing. Before long conversation had resumed.
"So, considering you just dropped enough lien to feed a family for a week like it was nothing, how rich are you?" Rain asked, his tone surprisingly serious.
"Not as wealthy as a Schnee, but close enough to live comfortably." Annette replied casually, her answer betraying no other information.
"She could have bought the club, and still had enough to pay the fare for all of us back to Beacon." Cyrus replied completely undermining her.
"Cyrus!" Annette chastised, surprised by his sudden interjection.
"Relax Netty, they aren't just your friends for your money. They wouldn't say half of the stuff they do if they were." Cyrus countered, reasoning with her.
"Yeah, thanks for waiting for me to change by the way. Damn I love sneakers." Rain said, stretching, he had opted for a set of fitted jeans, a dress shirt, a loose tie, and an old pair of sneakers.
"I'm just glad your voice is normal again." Breeze said, relieved by his now distinctly masculine voice.
"Well, are we here to stand around doing nothing or party!" Phoenix more or less yelled as she made her way to the attendant. "What's your name sweetheart?"
The attendant merely gave a giggle, and adjusted her blue hat, almost like that of an elevator attendant, and adjusted the blue dress she wore. She cleared her throat and gave a brief cheerful reply, "Hello, I am Elizabeth, and welcome!"
"Thanks Liz, mind getting me a strawberry sunset? Oh and hold the ice." Phoenix asked, giving her a wink.
"Not a problem, would anyone else like some libations?" Elizabeth requested, her voice filled with a strange cadence.
"May I see your wine list?" Alice asked, shocking everyone.
"You drink?" Celes asked, clearly surprised.
"A glass of wine never hurt anyone." Alice replied casually.
"Wine is a really common thing at formal stuff. People practically expect you to have a glass." Citri explained, before adding, "Hey can I get a Nikolaschka?"
"A what?" Ru asked, having never had a drop of liquor.
"Cognac, powdered coffee, powdered sugar and an orange slice." Rain explained, before saying "Sake, please."
The attendant jotted his order down, before looking to the twins expectantly. The two looked to one another for a moment before Ru answered, "One ginger beer, two glasses."
"Wait you two drink?" Phoenix said, raising an eyebrow.
"Non-alcoholic, it's basically a stronger version of ginger ale." Elizabeth cut in, before turning to Annette.
"I'd like a look at the wine list as well." Annette replied.
"Uhhhhhh." Cyrus droned before answering, "Scotch."
Elizabeth wrote the orders, before turning to face the whole of team SAWR, her pen at the ready.
"Beer." Breeze and Klyde answered in sync.
"Pass." Garren said, before Elizabeth delivered a look of slight disappointment, prompting a hasty change in response, "Or a water. I guess."
"Give me something hard." Reid replied.
"Heyo?" Klyde questioned, unsure of how to respond to such a matter of fact answer.
"And last but not least, what would you like ma'am?" Elizabeth, asked, turning to Celes with a smile as she finished jotting down the previous two orders.
"A glass of water would be lovely, thank you."Celes replied bowing her head.
"Great! Now, expect your orders in a few minutes, busy night, and the wine list will be right up, we thank you for being our guests this evening!" Elizabeth said, giving a dramatic wave goodbye as she strolled out.
"Hate to see her go, love to watch her leave." Phoenix said, staring as Elizabeth made her way to the bar.
"I feel you there." Klyde replied, staring in tandem with Phoenix.
"Well, pardon me, but I am not wasting this couch." Cyrus said plopping down on the couch and scooting all the way to the far end, laid back as far as he could, without flat out laying on the couch.
"So, shall we take our seats?" Annette suggested to Citri, linking arms with him.
"Sure." He replied as the two took a seat, sliding to the end next to Cyrus.
Rain wordlessly took the seat across from the two, prompting the twins to follow suit. Soon the rest had done the same, Reid and Celes sitting next to the twins, with Alice and Garren mirroring them. Phoenix had opted to take the seat next to Celes, and Breeze and Klyde taking their place beside Garren.
"Soooooo, how are we gonna do this?" Phoenix asked at the table, drumming her fingers against the smooth surface before her.
"What do you mean?" Garren asked, curious as to what this girl had planned.
"Well, last time we were in a group setting, we played a little game!" Phoenix replied, grinning deviously, "We rated each other on who was the hottest, and I figure, since we have newcomers, and it was fun last time, why not do it again?"
"Yeah, let's make everyone state who they find to be the most attractive while with dates, that sounds like a wonderful idea." Rain deadpanned "We'll definitely receive honest and impartial answers."
"Yeah, I'm with Rain on this." Citri said, backing his partner up, hoping to escape any situations that could potentially alienate Annette.
"Oh don't be a bitch, it sounds like fun!" Breeze said, dismissing his sentence with a wave.
"And we are undecided, we settle this with a vote!" Phoenix said, slamming a fist against the table, excitedly.
"Oh a wonderful idea!" Alice commented, cheering in her seat.
"All in favor say aye!" Phoenix called out.
"Aye!" Came the reply from SAWR, Alice, and most surprisingly of all Annette. As well as most obviously, Phoenix.
"The vote carries." Phoenix declared before adding, "Ground rules, you have to be honest, and no rating anyone you've already rated, so, the twins, and my team will pass when it comes time to rate each other. Any questions?"
"Can I pass?" Cyrus asked, letting out a yawn.
"And we have our first volunteer." Phoenix said with a smile, "Let the rating begin! Start us off Annie!"
"Annette. And what to score you as. You are the single most lazy, unmotivated, slothful, unorganized, aggravating, and stubborn person on the planet." Annette began, eying her partner critically before sighing and saying, "However you have stood by me no matter what, and you are one of the few people I can be myself around. An eight."
"I don't really know you that well, but you seem cool so...eight?" Citri half asked as he looked to his date to approve his answer.
"Well, you leave a little to be desired in terms of tidiness, but you are a fine looking fellow." Alice said, "A seven and a half, I suppose. After all, you aren't quite as dashing as Garren."
"Nice save." Klyde muttered to Garren's date quietly.
"Oh, it's me next right. Umm. I don't know. Same as Alice I guess." Garren said, rubbing the back of his neck.
"All right! Down to me. So we talkin' bout the blond guy at the end of the table now right?" Klyde asked, before standing to get a good view of Cyrus. "Aight, not bad, not me, but not bad. Imma say a solid seven."
"My turn, I guess. Seven or eight, not bad looking but not really my type." Breeze said, looking across to Phoenix.
"Six. Guys aren't really my thing. What do you think big guy?" Phoenix asked, looking up at Reid.
"Six." Reid said bluntly, offering nothing more.
"I'd say a nine." Celes said cheerfully, prompting a groan from her partner adding, "What he's funny! Why are you groaning?"
"Because you rate everyone at a nine or ten." Rain snickered.
"That's because everyone is beautiful in their own way." Celes replied simply.
"Yeah, yeah, love for your fellow man, whatever. You're up wonder twins." Rain said, directing the two to answer.
They shared a brief look before answering in sync, "Seven."
"Great. Slightly above average. Your turn Nette." Cyrus said in a bored tone. "Oh and eight for you as well."
Cyrus gave Citri a look, prompting the boy to take his turn. The whole room looked at him expectantly, Annette particularly so. "Please," He said with a dismissive wave, "Ten."
"I must respectfully disagree, I place her at an eight." Alice interjected.
"Same as Alice, more cause the whole secretary look isn't my bag." Garren added, looking over to Klyde to keep the conversation moving.
"Girl, you an eleven. Like no contest." Klyde said, flashing a brilliant smile at Annette and prompting a 'don't show me up' half-glare from her date.
"It's supposed to be on a scale of one to ten, and she's spoken for so back off casanova." Breeze admonished, delivering a soft elbow to Klyde's ribs.
"He's just jealous I thought of it first. What do you think Breezy?" Klyde countered.
"Fuck, I don't know. Like a nine or something. I mean she's a girl." Breeze said, shrugging.
"Language!" Celes said, rising up to scold the girl across the table.
"Shit, sorry." Breeze apologized prompting a frown from Celes, but a nod of acceptance.
"My turn!" Phoenix half-yelled from her seat before taking a moment to eye Annette.
After a few moments of careful examination she said, "Ten, easy. Our leader has better taste than I give him credit for."
"Hey!" Citri protested from the other end of the table.
"Six." Reid grunted.
"Oh come on, I think you're an easy nine." Celes said kindly, looking up at her date in surprise, "You've done wonders for Citri."
"You're telling me." Phoenix cut in with a laugh.
"Guys really?" Citri again protested. "Piao, Ru, help me out here!"
The twins gave him a brief look of sympathy before studying his date, the two then faced each other. For a moment their faces would change expressions almost as if reacting to a conversation the two seemed to be having with their eyes. Finally the two's eyes narrowed and they nodded, reaching some kind of agreement. "Seven me, five Piao." Ru said.
"Whoa! A five, Piao are you trying to pull a me?" Rain asked, looking impressed with the younger boy.
"Combat class." Piao muttered. Prompting a raised eyebrow from everyone.
"She picked on him sometimes." Ru explained, briefly giving Annette a cold look. "It's not surprising he has trouble trusting her."
Citri gave a cough, "My boy. Your turn I think?"
Rain nodded, but gave an apologetic look before saying, "Sorry, but he's right. I would say five. But that won't change the past. A seven. Since you're trying."
"Yeah well, at least you guys are starting to move past it." He gave a thankful glance to team SAWR and his own team before giving a saddened shrug.
"These things take time. Let things take their course." Annette said, hesitating before giving his shoulder a single pat. "Cyrus?"
"I'll go with my gut and give you an eight." Cyrus yawned before giving Citri a look that promised excitement, "But when we finally hang out, we are gonna tear shit up."
"Definitely." Citri replied smiling, prompting a groan from Annette.
"Oh no there's two of them now." Annette said despairingly. She then recollected herself and briefly wondered what to rate her date. He had done well. He was far from perfect, but she could tell...actually she couldn't foresee him ever being a perfect gentleman. Somehow, she was fine with that though. The chimp had earned...well she wasn't quite sure, but it was something.
She hesitantly cleared her throat and said, "Nine, nobody's perfect but, you try."
Silence took everyone at the table. No one had seen that answer coming, not even Cyrus. But it was Cyrus who broke the silence. "Man, that may be the nicest thing she's said to anyone who isn't me. You better hang onto her."
Citri nodded dumbly, still processing the answer. before turning to Alice and shaking himself out of his daze.
"Ooh. A difficult one. You do have a certain charm, no arguing your dashing looks, but you just aren't for me. Seven and a Half." Alice said, as if appraising a painting.
"Same as Alice." Garren said before hastily adding, "Not the good looks and charm stuff, well kind, you get what I mean."
"Imma say eight. You don't quite have my class and style, but you got some moves, I can respect that." Klyde grinned, before nudging his partner.
"Right, um an eight I guess. I don't really know you. I mean you're kind of cute." Breeze said, finally sighing.
"Alright leader boy. My turn." Phoenix said with glee.
"Oh, I say eight. but don't let it go to your head. It's only because everyone looks better next to that." Phoenix said eying Annette the whole time, giving a brief wink to the girl.
"Thanks. I think." Citri said, before shrugging and deciding to just accept it.
"Six." Reid said yet again, provoking a pout of protest from Celes. For a moment, everyone would have sworn they saw the faintest trace of a smile on his face.
"I know I can't vote but can I say ten anyway?" Rain asked, offering a fist bump to his partner.
"Cheers." Citri replied returning the gesture. Before turning to Cyrus, "So what are your thoughts on the princess?"
"Nine. Ten if she was single." Cyrus piped up lazily.
"I must agree, although not with the single comment, I'm not one for women but she is rather pretty." Annette agreed.
"A nine, the whole royalty thing is kind of intimidating." Citri admitted.
"Thank you, Garren how would you rate me?" Alice asked, sending Garren a playful look.
"Ten without a doubt. Eleven if I could go higher." Garren replied almost instantly. Earning him a swift embrace, before Alice blushed and cleared her throat.
"Royalty and she's hot. That's a ten." Klyde said, nodding sagely.
"Whoa, that's like second base for her Garren! Who knew you were such a smooth operator." Breeze commented, enjoying Garren's brief look of irritation."I'll go with nine, since she's a chick and all."
"Oh, should her highness need anything, I will be more than happy to comply. Ten." Phoenix said, giving a suggestive eyebrow raise.
"Okay, no." Garren said, glaring at Phoenix, somehow managing to cow the girl, and shock most of the table.
"Oh, I've seen enough parties to know that look, you should probably back down honey." Elizabeth cut in giggling as she carried a tray of drinks.
"Drink time!" Phoenix cheered.
"Now, allow me to make sure I got this right. Strawberry sunset, no ice. Nikolaschka. Sake. One Ginger beer, two glasses. Scotch. Two beers. A glass of water. A flatliner. And last but not least another glass of water. Oh and here are your wine lists." Elizabeth said, handing each drink to it's owner in order.
"Excuse me, but what's a flatliner?" Phoenix asked, voice filled with curiosity.
"It's a mix of club soda and our pride and joy, Deathstalker Kiss. The owner brews it." Elizabeth explained.
"What exactly is in this homebrewed liquor?" Rain asked eyeing the drink suspiciously.
"Lots of things. The special ingredient is distilled Deathstalker venom. It takes months to tease all of the deadly bits out of it, but Deathstalker venom is actually delicious." Elizabeth replied excitedly explaining.
"Is that even safe?" Celes cut in, suddenly concerned for her date.
"It's called a flatliner what do you think?" Rain deadpanned.
"Oh, don't worry sweetheart, I'm sure you're date is made of sterner stuff than most, otherwise I never would have given him one." Elizabeth said reassuringly, as she once agains trode out of the room. "If you need me, just ring the bell."
"Oh trust me, you'll know when we need you." Phoenix said, with a wink. "Now back to the game, Reid?"
Reid merely took a swig of his drink before giving his head a violent shake and saying "Six."
"I say a ten. I mean a real princess!" Celes said squealing with joy.
"Can you fangirl any harder?" Rain asked sarcastically, laughing as Celes puffed her cheeks out at him in frustration.
The twins looked at the girl, and watched her actions. She looked at them, but never made eye contact for too long, as if she knew that it bothered the twins. Her expression was kind and patient. It honestly reminded them of Vic a little. The two looked back at each other and nodded. "Nine."
"High praise from those two, better add that to your resume." Rain said, sounding impressed. "I'll say eight. Don't want to over or underestimate you."
With the round over everyone took a brief moment to enjoy their drinks, while the two ladies finished looking over the wine list. Rain methodically poured a small cup of sake and shotgunned it. Phoenix sipped at her strawberry sunset, pausing to marvel as Reid took another swig of his drink. Klyde and Breeze clinked cans and took occasional gulps. The twins poured even glasses of ginger beer and calmly sipped. Cyrus took a swig of scotch and let out a satisfied sigh. Garren and Celes drank their water, and watched as Citri prepared his drink.
Citri took the orange slice off of his glass and popped it into his mouth chewing softly and enjoying the citrus. After a minute he poured the powdered coffee and sugar into his mouth and enjoyed the taste for a brief moment. He then downed the whole of the cognac in a single go with a satisfying gulp before sitting with a grin of contentment.
Annette rolled her eyes, but declined to comment, as he technically did follow the correct procedure for a chaser. She peered around the table for a moment before spying a bell in the middle, almost akin to one seen in a hotel. She looked over to Alice and received a nod of confirmation, before ringing the bell. A simple ding was heard, and the door opened to reveal Elizabeth.
"You rang?" The girl asked with a small giggle.
"That was quick." Phoenix commented,resuming her eying of their attendant.
"A good hostess is always there when her guests need her." Elizabeth replied before pulling out her pen and asking, "What is your request?"
"Yes, a bottle of Gateau Haute Mistral. Chilled." Alice politely requested, handing the attendant the wine lists.
"Really? Quite an expensive bottle." Elizabeth commented, the unusual lilt in her speech enhancing the amusement in her voice.
"Really, how expensive?" Rain questioned, knocking back another glass of sake.
"More than this room costs." Elizabeth replied, before asking, "Will that be all?"
"You said earlier that you're a hostess. Are there others?" Phoenix asked, curiosity clear in her voice.
"Yes. There's my older sister Margaret, Marie, and Lisette. We also have a host as well, my brother Theodore." Elizabeth answered, "Will you be requiring their services?"
Phoenix opened her mouth to answer, raising a hand slightly before Celes grabbed it and pulled it out the way, answering before her partner could, "No, no, it's quite alright."
"Are you certain, or would you prefer the twins?" Elizabeth began before speaking in a hushed tone.
"The twins?" Rain asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes, my employer hired twin girls onto the staff a while back. Normally they serve as the leg breakers, however if a customer has the funds, they can be requested for conversation." Elizabeth answered, looking over her shoulder.
"Uh, I think we'll pass." Breeze said,
"You guys! Think of the possibilities." Phoenix protested.
"I know exactly what possibilities you're thinking of, and it's vile." Citri commented, prompting more protests
"But-"
"No. We aren't having someone pimp out a girl for you." Garren said, rolling his eyes.
"Coming from the princess' boy toy, it doesn't sound as convincing." Breeze teased.
"I do not pay Garren for his company!" Alice protested. "I may pay for his meals on occasion. And his dust arrowheads. And his suit tonight. But I do not pay him to date me."
"I know you think that that helped, but trust me, it didn't." Breeze said, reaching across Garren to rest a hand on Alice's shoulder.
"And all I get is a hat." Citri stuck a tongue out at his own date playfully.
"I was under the impression that a gentleman such as yourself would be delighted at the chance to pay for his date." Annette countered.
"Anyway!" Phoenix interrupted, turning back to Elizabeth.
"So will you be requiring a hostess after all?" Elizabeth questioned politely.
"You'll do just-" Phoenix began before being interrupted by her partner.
"No such thing will occur! No partner of mine will dabble in prostitution!" Celes snapped, covering Phoenix's mouth.
"I don't think you understand what a hostess does. They merely sit, drink, and converse with a customer until such time that they leave." Elizabeth explained frowning.
Deafening silence fell over the table while Celes held a face of immediate regret and embarrassment. "I am so sorry."
"It's fine. This happens from time to time. Just be glad you said it to me and not one of the others." Elizabeth replied before ending her sentence with one of her unusual giggles.
"So, knowing that now, can I request a hostess?" Phoenix asked,
The group looked at each other, seeing what everyone thought on the matter.
"I dunno. Paying for company still feels kinda dirty." Breeze said, before adding, "No offense."
"A hostess is hardly dirty. Her job is to be there for her client. Whether it's as a drinking buddy, a confidant, or a shoulder to cry on. I consider it to be one of the most honest professions on Remnant." Elizabeth countered.
"Awww, so pretty it almost brought a tear to my eye." Rain snarked from the edge of the table, "Head's up, Phoenix isn't exactly rich."
"That is hardly my concern. Besides, hostess service is covered in the room. It only costs more if you request a hostess other than the one in that room, or if you wish to add additional hostesses." Elizabeth replied. "All that is required, is for the guest to request."
"Buy me a booth full of girls and I'll get the wonder twins on your side within a week," Phoenix persuaded, leaning into Annette and speaking in hushed tones.
"I will do no such thing. Although I am curious." Annette began before turning to Elizabeth. "how much do additional hostess cost?"
"It depends on each girl. Marie is the least expensive. Margaret is arguably the most expensive, if you don't count the twins. Lisette, Theodore and myself are the middle of the road option." Elizabeth rattled off.
"So price is the only difference?" Rain asked, sounding almost disappointed.
"Oh heavens no. Each hostess caters to a different personality preference so to speak." Elizabeth began explaining. "I for example, am meant to be for customers who prefer a playful, cheery personality."
"What about the others?" Phoenix asked eagerly.
"Margaret is the classy, elegant one. Lisette is a shameless flirt. And Marie is, well she acts angry, but shows moments of sweetness." Elizabeth listed, ignoring the way that Phoenix's ears almost pricked up at the mention of a 'shameless flirt'.
"Why is there only one dude?" Klyde asked, raising his hand.
"Oh we had more, but they left. Theodore has always been the most popular of the bunch. I think they got tired of being the second choice." Elizabeth mused. "So will you be requiring any additional hostesses besides myself?"
Phoenix looked hopefully over to Annette and Alice only to receive brief shakes of their heads. "No."
"Excellent. I'll ring Margaret and get my drink, as well as your bottle." Elizabeth said plopping down next to Phoenix. "Do you mind if I sit here?"
Receiving a startlingly fast no from Phoenix, Elizabeth let out a small giggle and rang the bell twice. Again, within seconds another individual walked through the door, this time, a much taller woman, wearing a blue dress that went well past her knees, a set of blue heels, and a blue headband holding back wavy white hair to reveal bright, almost golden eyes.
"Good evening, my name is Margaret. I humbly thank you for your patronage." The woman said, bowing her head, holding her clipboard to her chest.
"Hello, sister dearest!" Elizabeth greeted, the cheerful lilt in her voice giving it an almost teasing tone.
"Elizabeth, I assume you will be joining our dear guests in their revelrie this evening?" Margaret asked, producing a pen and preparing to jot down orders.
"Yes. My new friends have requested a bottle of Gateau Haute Mistral, chilled. I, myself will be requiring my usual." Elizabeth replied cheerfully.
"Of course. One Gateau Haute Mistral, chilled. Ah, who would that be for?" She made a note once Annette and Alice each raised their hands, "And one Hanged Man. If that is all, I will have your drinks and return shortly, do feel free to ring if you need someone."
With the order's collected, Margaret made her way to the exit, unsurprisingly catching the attention of Klyde and Phoenix. "So, uh, how come she gets to sit down with the hot waitress?" The boy complained to nobody in particular.
Elizabeth merely let out a giggle at Klyde's question before turning back to her guests. "I am not just here for her. Technically I am at all of your services should you need me. However, one at a time is easier."
"Score!" Klyde cheered, before saying, "So back to the game?"
"Yeah, I think Prince Garren over there is up. Cyrus, your rating?" Rain said, nudging Cyrus.
"I dunno. Like a six." Cyrus commented, turning his focus to his scotch.
"I would say a seven. He's not stunning, but he's definitely well mannered." Annette commented somewhat critically.
"Seven seems about right." Citri agreed, nodding.
"A ten without question. I've never met someone so charming." Alice said with a bright smile.
"A good eight." Breeze answered, taking her turn before nudging her partner.
"Seriously? After a ten, gimme a break." Garren cut in, with mock hurt.
"Sorry my man, you did good baggin a royal babe, but you can't quite step to me. I say eight." Klyde argued.
"My turn then. The game is about judging the qualities of those around us and scoring them, right?" Elizabeth questioned excitedly.
"That's the gist of it." Alice answered.
"Great. Well I hardly know about you, but your drink order suggests that this isn't exactly your atmosphere. The way you sit suggests that you prefer a quiet night in, or a setting with only a few close friends. However around the people you know you clearly seem the type to make jokes. So I'll place you at a six, after all, have to account for personal taste." Elizabeth said confidently, smiling at the look of surprise on everyone's faces.
"How did you do that?" Phoenix asked, in awe.
"I've spent a good chunk of my recent years working as a hostess, reading people is an important part of the job." The girl replied simply.
"You've got to do that for everyone, forget the rating game! No one here really knows each other, this'll be way more fun." Phoenix suggested enthusiastically.
"Hell yes!" Citri cheered in reply, with a roar of support coming from the others one by one.
"As you wish my guests. So who's first?" Elizabeth asked playfully.
"ME!" Phoenix half yelled, practically leaping out of her seat.
"All right then. Let's see, a strawberry sunset. Not usually a popular drink, most prefer the sunrise. The sunset is less sweet but stronger, so you must be the brash type. You're bold, no questions about that. However, you aren't quite as tough as you try to appear are you, judging by how you still cross your legs perfectly. Finally that dress you've chosen, a flirt but never really had a serious relationship have we?" Elizabeth commented, studying Phoenix's every action.
Phoenix's nodded through most of it confidently, but blushed at the relationship comment, and the leg crossing remark.
"The next guest please." Elizabeth politely requested.
"Someone harder to read. Wait. Read. Reid you do it!" Breeze commented, before gesturing to her leader.
Reid merely looked down at Breeze and growled in protest, attempting to instill fear in the girl.
"Oh absolutely." Elizabeth agreed, nodding her head enthusiastically. "Now let's see here."
She took a moment to look at the boy, her eyes narrowing slightly for just a moment as she thought about everything she saw. "Well, for a start, the way you hold yourself. You clearly know your own strength, but you don't appear to be arrogant about it. If anything you seem to try and restrain yourself. Your drink is also a clear indicator of that, it also shows a clear feeling of apathy toward things you deem unimportant. The growl suggests a preference for actions over words. But the use is what's really interesting. Used for intimidation, but not out of desire to scare, merely deter unwanted actions. Quite the proud, feral beast we have here."
Reid merely responded with an impressed whistle, before giving a nod of affirmation.
"Very impressive!" Citri cheered, "Now me!"
"But of course." Elizabeth complied calmly. "Well, the hair is an interesting one, generally quite a rebellious and free spirited style. My assumption would be that you had a somewhat traditional upbringing that you felt wasn't exactly for you. The drink as well tells me a lot. A chaser is usually something to be drank quickly, and the Nickolska in particular with it's sugar and coffee definitely gives me the impression that you're impatient and impulsive. Finally, the suit. Despite your efforts it really isn't your kind of thing, is it? Contrasts with the hair too much. I'd say you're trying to make a good impression with someone, so either you care a lot about what people think or you care about one person's opinion a lot."
"Hah! She has you nailed yo!" Klyde commented laughing.
Citri gave a laugh of agreement, "Yeah yeah, good all around. Guess that's you putting your name forward then?" The last part was directed at Klyde, and followed up with a grin.
"Oh hell to the yes! What's the story?" Klyde said, looking at Elizabeth with an excited grin.
"Well your method of speech says more than anyone's actions ever could. A complete lack of restraint and tact, clearly you live life without a single fear. Your smile and laugh suggest that you do both often and are somewhat of a joker. Beer is a simple drink and proffered by those who have no desire to bother with fancy details and feel no need for etiquette. The way you sit suggests quite the active personality." Elizabeth replied happily, giggling at Klyde's jaw dropping.
"That right there," Klyde began mouth still hung open in surprise, "Is the shit."
"How about you wonder twins, let's see how good she really is." Rain suggested, hands folded together eyes focused on the girl.
Piao's eyes widened, and Ru looked down uncomfortably, "No, it's okay." She murmured.
"I promise I won't be too mean." Elizabeth replied in a playful, but reassuring tone.
After a few moments of looking at one another uncertainty, the twins finally turned back to Elizabeth, with Ru giving a slight nod.
"Well obviously you two are very close, you don't even need to talk to eachother. Though your reason for not speaking to the rest of us seems to be shyness, which is probably because of you never needing to speak before. You don't drink alcohol, which is unsurprising since you really don't seem like the partying types." Elizabeth paused for a moment, "You're both quite uncomfortable right now. No doubt in part due to me, but I think also the company in general has you unsettled. You don't do so well with new people."
The twins merely nodded in response to the final statements, and looked down, waiting for the moment to be over. Everyone at the table looked on for a moment, before most shifted their focus away from the twins, attempting to be more mindful of their discomfort.
"I take it they want me to move on, so, next guest please?" Elizabeth suggested, averting her gaze from the two.
"I'd like a go!" Celes piped up, raising her hand in excitement, as if volunteering in a class.
"Very well." Elizabeth chimed, "Let's see. In this short time you've already proven to be very kind and friendly towards others. I don't think you've stopped smiling the entire time you've been here. You seem to not like hurtful things, seeing as how you frown at the sound of swearing and other things you consider indecent. Looks like someone is still nursing an old wound. A water is something simple, and polite, asking a beverage, but only the minimal, and with such impeccable manners. You'd do well here, if you ever decide to pursue a career as a hostess with a cheerful personality like yours."
"That is very impressive." Celes clapped in reply, "Bravo."
"Are there any other volunteers?" Elizabeth queried, smiling as she scanned the table for potential subjects.
"Yo, read my partner here!" Klyde suggested holding up Breeze's arm and pointing to her enthusiastically.
"Hey! Hands off." She cried, pulling her arm away. "Though I guess it'd be fun."
"Let's begin then." Elizabeth replied, studying the girl across from her intently. Eying every detail she could spot, for a moment Breeze felt uncomfortable with her gaze, but simply waited for her to finish.
"You're the tomboy of the group huh? I'm guessing you grew up with nothing but guys in your life. A beer is hardly a ladylike drink, and so is the way you're sitting. But you do manage to exude a sort of blunt tough feminine charm. you constantly watch various people, as if trying to predict their movements, quite the tactician. Judging by your speech, I'd say you prefer swears to subtlety, although you certainly don't lack precision." Elizabeth said, smiling as she watched Breeze's various reactions.
"Crazy." Breeze half whispered as she sat in shock of how true Elizabeth's analysis had been. The accuracy on every account had left the remaining few somewhat hesitant to make comment. Except for one. A certain princess raised a ladylike hand in the air.
"I would be quite fascinated to see what you can deduce from me." Alice said, somewhat excitedly.
"But of course." Elizabeth once again replied with a polite smile, "Well, the dress suggests that you're trying to blend in, and hide your highborn status, though I fear, if I may, you seem to be trying a little bit too hard. That and it is still a quite expensive brand. That said, your class doesn't seem to hinder you from socialising with the rest of the people here, despite the wide range of characters it might include. Though, once again, you seem to have overestimated the average person, as your drink was still highly expensive and ordered as if it was nothing. Your manners speak for themselves, and aren't surprising when everything else is taken into account. I do find your accent interesting, Menagerie, but received pronunciation, nothing like the town speak. Which means you're either nobility or a member of the royal family. If I had to guess I'd be more inclined to say that latter. Which is why I find it very telling about your kindness and compassion that you're dating a man that would, with no offense meant, traditionally be seen as being below you."
"Geez. Pick on the cripple." Garren complained dryly.
"Dude I think it's cause you're poor." klyde interjected.
"Klyde. Just be quiet." Breeze said sighing in exasperation.
"Oh most impressive, better than most detectives!" Alice cheered, applauding the same way one would at a golf game.
"Thank you. Only three left." Elizabeth replied, looking at the last three guests.
The three in question remained silent. Cyrus continued to lazily sip his scotch, not bothering to pay attention to those around him. He sat hunched over, as if half asleep, little yawns were interspersed between sips. Annette maintained a calm, collected manner, as she sat patiently waiting for someone else to make the next move. Her expression and posture betrayed nothing, almost as if she was actively trying to mask everything about what she was feeling and thinking. Rain sat in the corner of the couch , head bowed, and eyes closed. He calmly took another glass of sake to his lips and quickly downed it, before returning to his previous posture. His mouse ears twitched occasionally, moving around to sense every sound in the room.
"Oh, now's not the time to get cold feet." Elizabeth teased noting the lack of eagerness the three held.
"Not it." Cyrus commented, not even looking up from his glass.
"Cyrus!" Annette said in shock, breaking her calm front, only to roll her eyes and say, "Not it. I suppose."
"My boy!" Citri beamed, gesturing to his partner grandly. Rain merely let out a bored sigh.
"So, what's the story?" Rain asked, looking over and locking eyes with the girl.
"Just a moment if you will." Elizabeth replied, placing her chin in her hand as she maintained her gaze on the boy, eying him up and down.
"You watch everything around you and constantly listen. Your eyes linger on various things, doors, people, and light fixtures. You seem to only watch those around you who appear to be threats. Your drink is rather telling as well, sake is meant to be slowly enjoyed, but each sip is done as rapidly as a shot. Suggesting a tendency to wait and then act swiftly. Your words are very precise but also deflect focus off of you very quickly. They allow you to be present but easily ignored. Your left hand has yet to leave its place from your belt, concealing something are we? And from the way you sit, you're able to move and immediately make your way to the door. Your eyes say quite a bit, they go from soft to hard in an instant. Which brings me to the final detail. Your hair. Long hair isn't uncommon, to wear it in a ribbon like that for a boy is unusual but not unheard of. But the ribbon itself is old, and made of inexpensive fabric. The way it looks like it's been carefully handled makes it clear that it's important to you. I'd say it's a momento. Your reaction is surprised but not overly sorrowful. It happened a long time ago, but still weighs on you. Definitely a sibling. Judging by the momento a sister. Probably older, based on the age of the ribbon."
"I would stop there on that subject if I were you." Rain interjected calmly, but coldly.
"My sincerest apologies, I never meant to overstep my boundaries." Elizabeth replied, but clearly pleased with the accuracy of her reading. "Shall I continue?"
"Uh...Maybe I should have a go?" Cyrus raised his hand, knowing that there was nothing about him that would cause the same awkwardness that had settled over the group.
"Yes that would be for the best." Rain said, gesturing to Cyrus.
"Very well," Elizabeth said, turning to face the boy. She pulled a face of concentration as she looked over him, "Its quite obvious that you're lazy. Your clothes are haphazard and the way you slouch tells me you'd rather be asleep. That said, you do seem to have put some effort into making your scruffy appearance more exaggerated. Trying to make some sort of statement, are we? No, you don't seem the sort to care about that kind of thing. Its more function than fashion. So either someone wants to see you like that, or more likely it's done to annoy them. The way that no-one seems surprised by your appearance suggests that you do it regularly, so whoever this person is it's someone you see often. If you're making a recurring attempt to wind them up regularly then they must also be someone close. A childhood friend perhaps? I can't imagine that you'd downgrade your appearance if it was romantic. And finally, this childhood friend is...her."
Elizabeth pointed to Annette, who looked up in surprise. The red-haired girl was about to question when Elizabeth began to explain anyway. "You're the one that's paying most attention to his appearance, in a scolding, motherly kind of way. Seemed the most fitting. That and the way the two of you sit, slightly tilted towards each other and so on, hints that there's a closeness there."
"That is...very impressive." Annette remarked, looking at Elizabeth in both shock and hesitation. She could practically feel where the conversation was going.
"Well, now that I've started I might as well do you too," Elizabeth said cheerfully, causing Annette to wince internally. "You aren't a very nice person are you?"
"How dare you!" Annette began only to be cut off.
"How dare I? You're the one who looks upon every one like some sort of critic, apart from her royal highness that is. Everything about you is done by the book to an almost frightening degree. It's rather sad however that it appears this was instilled in you. You constantly correct your own actions, everything is almost rehearsed. A shame. You are friends with this boy, and you obviously have quite the kind heart somewhere inside of you, possibly even the rebellious spirit. Your best friend and date are both quite similar in that they are the exact opposite of what most would expect. A shame you try and mask it with perfection." Elizabeth rebuttled, before turning to the sound of the door opening, her serious tone evaporating instantly "Oh, Margaret's back!"
"I have your bottle of Gateau Haute Mistral, and one Hanged Man. Oh dear. What has my sister done this time?" Margaret asked noticing the expressions of the various group members.
"Oh sister, it was just a party game, they wanted to test my skills at reading people. Oh there were some tricky ones, but I believe I had everyone spot on." Elizabeth replied cheerfully.
"Let me guess, you pried a little too far?" Margaret replied.
"Just a bit." Rain snarked.
"I sincerely apologize for my sister's behavior. She has no concept of boundaries when it comes to her readings." The hostess gave an apologetic nod and threw a vaguely cross glance to her sister before trying to change the topic. "Whilst I'm here would anyone like a refill, or perhaps something else to try?"
"Another sake please." Rain requested with a nod.
"Keep the strawberry sunset's coming!" Phoenix cheered.
"More." Reid grunted pushing his glass forward.
"More beers would be tight." Klyde asked.
"I'll take a wa-" Garren began before being cut off.
"Get him a cider. Trust me. You'll like it." Breeze cut in.
"I need a minute." Citri grumbled as he rose from his seat and made his way to the door.
Everyone looked on in surprise as the boy got out of his seat with a sombre expression, apparently having had enough of sitting around. Annette looked over her shoulder as her date headed for the door. She considered going after him, but was stopped by a hand on her shoulder. "Let me." Rain said, as he walked past the others.
The girl nodded in response as he rose and walked out after his partner. Disappearing as soon as he crossed the threshold of the door.
Citri had made his way to the bar, and he was far from happy. He couldn't sit there and listen to anyone else complain about Annette for a moment longer. His team had been on and off supportive, to a degree, though that seemed to be slipping away as the night wore on. The twins were far less help than he had hoped. And now there was that damned hostess. At least SAWR were being decent about it, and they'd spent half of the last year in fights with Annette! Her arch enemies were being more cordial to his date than his own fucking friends.
"What's got you so worked up?" A familiar feminine voice asked.
"What, you mean spending an evening listening to people shit on your girlfriend doesn't sound appealing?" Citri snarked as he turned to face the girl. He'd bumped into her a couple of times, though had yet to have more than the occasional pep talk with her.
"Why are you yelling at me?" She asked, sounding genuinely hurt.
"Cause for once in my life I'm actually really pissed of." Citri explained, raising a clawed hand. "It's getting to me, okay?"
"Well can you try and be calm," She asked, almost pleading, "For me?"
Citri rolled his eyes and turned back to the bar, breathing out a heavy sigh as he reverted to the mopey attitude he had been sporting when he left his friends. "Fine, whatever." He sounded defeated.
"There, so your friends don't like who you're dating huh?" The girl asked giving him a playful shoulder bump.
"You know what, no. It's not even that they don't like her. That's fine, I get it. It's the way that we haven't been able to go five minutes without someone making her out to be some kind of heartless bitch." Citri moaned, looking up from the bar to face the girl yet again. She looked just like she always did, long hair brushed over to hide her face, a ribbon holding it back, she wore some kind of dress shirt and jeans, but her face was barely visible. She was definitely giving some kind of reassuring smile.
"Well, why do you think they do it?" She asked politely.
"They're looking out for me. I get that. But I've told them I know what I'm doing. This is my choice." Citri began, "They're my friends. They don't have to like her, but isn't there some bullshit about my happiness being enough?"
"That's true, but at the same time who exactly are you dating, I mean, there must be a reason they're pushing this hard." The girl reasoned.
"Don't get me wrong, she ain't sunshine and rainbows." Citri admitted, "But they've already had chances to voice their concerns, when I'm taking her out for the night is not the best time. Frankly it's insulting."
"Well, tell me about it some, which friends have said what?" The girl asked, folding her hands under her chin, like a child asking to be told a story.
Citri sighed again, "Okay, so I admit the most recent one wasn't really a 'friend' as such. But when you're sat in a room with four people who used to get into literal fights with her, and those four are some of the politest towards her...you don't really get a good impression. I dunno, I'm just sick of everyone either being neutral or insulting. Is it too much to ask,when there are a dozen of us, that one person if happy for me?"
"Well I'm sure one person is, but I can't really say until I know who said what." The girl replied, cocking her head to the side in curiosity.
The boy let out a groan and slumped his head into his hands, "Is there any way we can do this without me reciting my girlfriend's glaring flaws?"
"You don't have to say exactly what they said, just give me a general idea of what each person individually is saying." She offered, as if reaching for a compromise.
"Ugh." Citri groaned again, "Celes is...celes. Phoenix is okay, but then I made her promise and she's getting increasingly drunk so I've no idea how much that counts. The twins aren't brilliant. I understand why, really I do. They're just not doing a lot to move past it...they've not got a great history with her. Rain...he's inconsistent. I don't...I don't get him. One minute he'll say he doesn't approve, then he open accepts her coming to lunch with us. He joked around with her at the dance, poked fun, acted really friendly. Then we get here and he's backing up the twins. Credit to him for trying to at least make some amends but…I don't really know what to make of it, you know?"
"Okay, this sounds like your friends alright, but what about this not a friend?" The girl asked, clearly curious.
"She's meant to be our hostess. Phoenix invited her to sit with us, I, uh, can guess where that's headed." Citri explained, rubbing his temples as he leant forwards on the bar stool, "She was doing this thing where she read people, and just...she tore into my date. Something fierce. Like...it wasn't friendly, and there wasn't any kind of...I don't know. She was just...it was even worse than Rain's, and no one ended that conversation in a cheerful mood."
"Alright! I think I have the story now." she said before turning to the bar to quickly request some kind of drink, "If Celes is Celes, then I'm sure she's been nothing but sweet all night. Phoenix may not have been the best from what you told me, but if anything in the past is true, then you can trust her. The only people you really have a problem with are Rain, the twins and this hostess."
"That's about it yeah, though I'm pretty sure the girls are only keeping up appearances for the sake of the night." Citri shrugged, "Phoenix was the worst before I asked her to lay off, only for tonight."
"Well that's certainly a start. Now, I think you're being a little unfair to the twins." The girl began, in a tone that urged patience and understanding.
"I told you, I do understand their issues. I do. It just seems a teensy bit shitty to dampen the evening with it." Citri gave yet another sigh.
"Were the twins very trusting of you at first?" The girl asked.
"No. But they sure as hell didn't speak out about it." The boy complained.
"Which twin spoke up first when you started to get to know them?" The girl asked.
"Ru." The boy replied plainly, beginning to give up on the conversation.
"And why did she speak up first?" The girl asked, placing a hand on his shoulder, trying to emphasize that there was a point to it all.
"Probably to get me to stop flirting with her," Citri said with a vaguely amused shrug, "I don't know. She's a bit better with people."
"Look, I bet the one who criticized your girl was Ru wasn't it?" The girl said, as if guessing.
"Eh." His hand wavered. "Technically it was Piao. Ru just...explained for him."
"She always sounds like quite the over-protective sister. I bet her problem isn't really your date herself. I think she's just worried about that girl being around her brother." The girl commented.
"Her reasons don't really matter too much. Still putting down the girl I'm with." Citri said, before carrying on, "Look...I get that I might seem a bit irrational, but...she doesn't really have friends, my date I mean. She's got this one guy. Besides that she is surrounded by dicks. It'd be nice to actually make her feel welcome, you know. Not have all these little insults, and hostile atmosphere going around."
"Have you ever put it to your friends like that?" The girl asked, "Ever brought up that she doesn't have a lot of friends and you want to give her a chance to make some?"
"I didn't think I'd have to." He said with a groan, pulling out the ponytail to run a hand through his hair, "I kinda thought that me telling them I liked her would be enough for them to respect that."
"Well, from what you said earlier, they're worried about you, that must mean she doesn't have a great reputation. Did you think she was lonely when you first met her?" The girl, brought up, taking a sip from a small oddly shaped bottle that had little wisps of steam coming out of it
Citri shrugged half-heartedly, "Not really." He admitted, "I thought she was an attractive girl that I wanted a shot with. I didn't plan for the whole, dating, meeting parent's thing. Hell, at first, I thought I was fucking up too."
"Then isn't it just a little unfair to expect them to have it all figured out immediately to?" The girl chimed in.
"Yeah." Citri nodded his head sadly, "Yeah. I get it. I am being unfair to them."
"But they aren't being fair to your date either." The girl said.
"Exactly." He looked up again, this time with a bit of a smile, "Guess I just hoped they'd roll with it."
"Then what do you need to do?" The girl offered, as if trying to prompt a specific response.
"I need to call them on their bullshit." Citri joked, with a chuckle, "Nah...I...fuck it, I'll apologise and talk to them once Annette's gone back tonight. We'll sort something."
"No! Not when you're this close! Be bold!" The girl said, waving her hands around as if to command an army. "You go up, and you have this talk now! If they are you're friends, and they are worried about you, then they need to see that you have it under control. Who's the alpha dog here!?"
"Wow, you sound like my dad." The boy snorted, "He always said I'd be leading people."
"That's not the answer I want to hear. Who's the alpha dog!?" The girl replied, asking again.
Citri looked as if he was about to concur with the girl, before he folded over in laughter. "I know the answer you want but I can't." He continued to giggle into himself.
"Eh, close enough, Just get a basic conversation of, let's all just try and enjoy the night" The girl encouraged laughing, "Now go get 'em!."
Citri gave the girl his thanks as he stood up and began heading back the way he had came, before stopping and turning back to face her, "Okay...This is like the third time this has happened. Do I get a name now, or...?"
"It's Freya. Now go!" The girl replied, waving him off.
Citri gave a laugh as he carried on leaving, before calling over his shoulder, "You do realise that if this goes well I'm never going to be 'alpha dog' again?"
The girl was gone though. All that remained was a simple bottle of liquor, steam still curling off of it.
"Hey! You're back!" Phoenix cheered, her cheeks a rosy color, her voice interlaced with mild giggles.
"Yeah." Citri said with a heavy breath as he closed the door and looked around the room at his friends.
"Man, I feel way better now." Rain said as he walked back in, clapping Citri on the shoulder, "My boy."
"Hey man." Citri clapped his partner back as he returned to where he had been sitting.
"So, what's next on the agenda?" Elizabeth politely asked. What she had failed to notice was her older sister standing behind her. And for her answer she received a bump on her head with said sister's clipboard.
"An apology, Elizabeth." Margaret scolded.
"Right. I'm dreadfully sorry if I offended any of you with my readings, I had hoped you would all just take it as a bit of harmless fun, but I overstepped my boundaries. I apologize, and if you would prefer a different hostess, I will be happy to provide one. Free of charge." She said, bowing her head, and speaking with clear regret.
"You needn't bother yourself with that." Annette spoke up, "It's quite alright, I would not trouble yourself fretting over someone else getting offended on my behalf." She cast a concerned glance to Citri, unsure about what had just happened.
"Well, now that that's out of the way, can we just get another hostess in addition to you free of charge?" Phoenix asked, clearly excited at the prospect.
"Awww, am I not enough anymore?" Elizabeth feigned hurt.
"No, that's not. I just, want everyone to have a good time!" Phoenix protested.
"How is you having two hostesses a good time for everyone?" Klyde questioned, raising an eyebrow.
"I'm open to sharing." Phoenix replied.
"Guys!" Celes yelped.
"Sorry." The two replied in tandem.
"Could, uh, that wait for a minute?" Everyone turned to look at Citri, who was sat rubbing the back of his neck. "I kinda need to speak to you guys. Well, you lot anyway." He clarified, gesturing to his team members.
"No problem, what's up?" Rain asked, leaning in to listen.
"Maybe not a conversation that needs an audience." Citri made a face and shook his head uncertainly.
"It never hurts to have an unbiased third party." Alice commented, "After all, a mediator is always a welcome thing."
Citri groaned, looked at his team and gave a final, resigned sigh. "Right. Okay." He began by pointing to himself, his team and Annette in a circular fashion, "We...we got to figure this out."
"What's to figure out?" Rain asked, straight faced, but clearly hoping for a specific answer.
"I get that you three are worried, I get why. Let's not skirt around it, Annette bothers you." Citri said to his team, looking at them hopefully.
"Your date was not very nice in the past. Yes, and that really bugs me." Rain affirmed.
"And you've not been very nice tonight. And that really bugs me." Citri shot back, "This isn't going to work for anyone if we all don't try and put the past just there. The past."
"Why do you care so much?" Rain questioned.
"Cause I've got feelings for her." The boy leaned in forwards, bringing his team close. "Let's face it, regardless of what you think of Annette, her team's absolute shit. Present company excluded.
Cyrus is literally the only person to be kind to her. Does that have anything to do with how she treats others, maybe, but the point is that whether you like it or not, we are dating. We are a couple. And I want there to be at least one place where she can actually feel welcome."
"She picked on the twins. You don't pick on the twins." Rain commented.
"It isn't the twins that I'm asking to accept this. It's you." Citri locked eyes with his partner, but made it clear he meant everyone.
"If it means that much to you, I will make her feel welcome." Rain conceded, "I apologize for letting my own opinions get in the way. I've got your back."
"Thank you." Citri nodded, looking between Annette and Rain, "I get it isn't happening any time soon, but...attempts to get along would be cool, yeah?"
"I fully expect an apology to the twins." Rain said.
"Well that is ridiculous, why should he apologise for my actions." Annette chipped in, assuming that the faunus was addressing her.
"Citri is not apologizing for you. He is apologizing for pointing out that they were not trying to get over the past. Unintentional as it was, it wasn't cool. You are going to apologize for victimizing Piao." Rain countered, his voice firm.
"Oh come on that's a little harsh." Citri protested.
"If Ozpin himself had pulled that shit on them he would recieve the same treatment." Rain countered.
"It was kinda aimed more as a 'thanks' to SAWR. But I will, yeah." Citri replied, adding "They might appreciate it more when there's less people around though."
"Of course, don't want to put them in the spotlight you saw how thrilled they were during Elizabeth's reading." Rain agreed.
"Can we go back to drinking, this is killing my buzz?" Phoenix asked, the group still in a huddle over the table.
"Jeez, kill the serious mood you lush." Rain chuckled as he gave the girl a light push, causing the girl to puff out her cheeks and pout.
"She has a point, we should probably stop huddling in the middle of the table." Celes said casting a brief look around to the others looking on their huddle.
"Ya think?" Breeze questioned, raising an eyebrow and taking a swig of her beer.
Well. That was a thing. this was a blast to write, and the rating game was rightfully supplanted by the readings, we finally get to see the ANCY group kind of put their grievances with Annette aside for now. And we introduce a new, possibly one off, possibly recurring character in the form of Elizabeth. Plus I got to write one of my favorite scenes. I am of course referring to the scene where Citri spoke to a girl apparently named Freya who had spoken to him when he was down in the dumps in the past. LieutenantJensen, Deadly Animals are Cute, and Harlotcat, I expect to hear from each of you who you think this girl is. Anyway the night is far from over, and I do hope that my dear readers have enjoyed the latest Chapter from my partner and I. This should be an interesting night though. Please leave a review, and let us know how we did. Anyway, I am Kurt the Mortician and I hope this chapter laid your worries, fears, and troubles to rest.