[Open Mingle] Entry 003

[chippedsoul]

Who: Kazuma Asogi, Soldier: 76, Susato Mikotoba and anyone else.
Which: Open mingle
Where: The Wild Harvest, located on the ground floor of Kazuma's home.
What: Soft opening for a small pub called the Wild Harvest.




A new pub has opened in Reverein, though the news is only being spread through word of mouth, or if people just happen by the place this month. Kazuma isn't exactly new to managing a pub, but he wanted to be sure he does it right this time. So he's keeping things small and simple, while the crew work out any issues that may come up during the month.

The place already has a much more welcoming feel to it compared to the Hydeout, like a quaint little neighborhood pub. Right next to the pub was a garden, part of it growing into the pub itself. There's a herb station setup if people want grab something else to add to their dishes, though at the moment, the selection is limited until they can grow more plants. There are garnish and spice noodle dragons also roaming about, and they will occasionally add a little extra to a customer's food or drink.

The menu itself is moderately simple, listing various eastern and western style street food dishes. There is also a note that reads: Can request something to be cooked off menu, as long as there are ingredients.

A sign has been put up near the entrance, listing the seasonal specials for the month.


Hot Chocolate (Alchoholic and Non)
Eggnog (Alchoholic and Non)
Cinnamon Apple Spice Tea
Meat Stew.
Roast Fowl.

Note: Meat will vary depending on what's available for the day.

Another can be found at the bar, this one being a "help wanted" sign. While Kazuma is satisfied having a crew he can trust, he could probably do with a full time bartender and bouncer. There are only three staffed at this pub right now. Kazuma is handling the front the best he can. He's not as conversive as his Hyde counterpart, but he'll try since he'll be the one most people will see. Occasionally 76 can be seen at the bar handling drinks, otherwise he'll be preparing the food along with Susato in the kitchen. A few times she'll peek out from the back to help clear tables, talking to the others during down time as she adjust to working a restaurant.

[This is basically an open mingle log for people to use the pub setting for whatever they like! Kazuma, Susato and/or 76 may also tag in, unless specified. Pub and garden area are open to the public.]

Comments

[steadypulse]

Nah, no trouble at all- have a seat at the bar here. Can keep up conversation when I duck back to the kitchen. [Wasn't crowded after all, practically had it to themselves for the moment. Stirrings here and there of course.]

Anything to drink to tide you over while I make those? Got some juice, milk, hot chocolate, and tea. Coffee too, if you're the type.

[He had a habit of morning coffee, so he'd made sure there was a supply here given he could get in rather early-] Can do you up a side of honey glazed bacon if you're in to that.

[Oh, he knew what was back there with what he'd hauled in. Dropped by a farm, fresh cuts that were already being done up as payment for help. Pulling on a different pair of gloves from under the bar counter, jacket already shrugged off from when he'd walked back in.

Simple black long-sleeve was nice after the month of ugly sweaters.]

[perfectenn]

[ Tenn settles onto a seat at the bar, leaning forward, less poised as his anticipation climbs. Coffee? He'd heard there'd been a request put out by Dreambucks for a coffee faerie, and that stirred the hope that he might finally, finally be able to enjoy a cup again. Tenn doesn't hesitate. ]

I used to have coffee with cream in the mornings. If you don't have cream, milk is fine.

[ It won't be the incantation-length caffeine and sugar shot he'd get at the local Moonbucks, but when he was home, just the pot on the stove and whatever sweetener was in the fridge had been enough to get his day started. And good, he doesn't have to cheat too much if there's meat on his plate somewhere. ]

Yes, that sounds good, too.

[ just slather everything in honey and cream that works ]

[steadypulse]

[There was a tap of a finger against the little dragon's side against his neck-] Think you can manage that when I get the coffee?

[Judging by the trilling, the garnish noodle on his shoulder could definitely manage cream for coffee. The way he'd seen them seem to conjure even whipped cream and marshmallow fluff out of thin air? 76 believed it.

The frilled golden orange and white dragon was allowed to slide down his arm and on to the bar counter so it could perch there.]

Alright, I'll be back with the coffee first. [There had been some sheer relief when a farmer had mentioned coffee to him, so he would walk all the way out just to get a few bags of it. Best coffee he'd had in years he'd lived off army coffee, and then instant.

76 slipped in to the kitchen, and true to his word there was a mug of coffee after several minutes, the sizzling of bacon and the sell of it mixed with honey wafting out after him as the mug was set in front of Tenn- and the dragon moved to work, adding cream and a little design at the top before finishing, retreating back to the old soldier's shoulder.]

Will that do alright? These little guys really enjoy putting the finishing touches.

[perfectenn]

[ The company is welcome! Tenn does his best to be respectful, given all the fae in the area, but he also presents a hand to the dragon for introduction (and petting if liked.) His expression relaxes - smile softer, shoulders down. He offers the same attention to any other noodle who visits him. They've been a great help, especially early on when he was stumbling through rudimentary cooking. Suffice to say, Tenn made friends quickly.

He’s content to let the little coffee artist work, his only input being an encouraging wave of his hand to add more cream. (The previous cat transformation was not out of place.) And watches curiously to see what art he’ll be graced with. The little design is cute and attentive. ]

It's perfect, thank you. [ This expression of gratitude directed as much to the dragon as 76, of course. Tenn wants to enjoy the art and so restrains himself from immediately taking a sip, but the familiar, rich scent catches him off guard. His smile wavers, nostalgic. To think it'd been five months since he'd had something as simple as coffee, and someone to thoughtfully prepare it for him. He brings the mug closer, warming his hands around it. ]

I didn't know when I'd have coffee again... it feels like it’s been a long time, but I'm also surprised the town has come this far.

[steadypulse]

Feels like with everything we manage to pull off, the more alive this place grows. [Not just with the dreamscapes they get pulled in to either-] I stumbled across these little guys weeks ago, for instance. Was out in the woods checking on something and I got swarmed- never seen them before, but it was easy to tell they're related to the ones that help with food.

[He'd brushed a finger under the noodle's chin, it leaning in to it with a stretch of that long neck, looking rather pleased from its perch.

Still, the point was that with everything any of them did- or even just discovered, it seemed to lead to something else. Connections being made and created, drawn from various places and worlds if he had to guess.]

That cabaret? She's from my world, the robotic singer, an Omnic from Paris.

[perfectenn]

[ Tenn raises his head, surprised. This meant 76 was also from Earth? Though one which could be anywhere from decades to hundreds of years in the future, or a different timeline entirely; it was impossible to say. But even if possibilities were infinite, it was nice to know that in at least some of them, Paris was still a home of the arts. ]

It surprised me since I’m not used to seeing technology here. I've enjoyed going there and singing. [ That was another thing he hadn’t expected to do so soon: perform on stage again. He’d been nervous — as a solo artist, standing before such a varied audience, and unsure how he would be received — but Estelle had been encouraging. ]

I'm not familiar with the term Omnic. But I’ve had fun talking with her, and I’m glad she’s passionate about bringing entertainment to this place. I also think it’s something we need. For where there are nightmares, there must be good dreams, too.

[steadypulse]

[Was a lot of advancement after humanity had been on the edge of being wiped out completely, because some places hadn't lost everything despite destruction.

Even if 76 didn't linger for long, he could still talk from the kitchen and be heard. Didn't want the bacon to burn and had to get the flapjacks started-]

Surprised me to see someone from my world like that. [Set him on edge, was going to keep an eye on her just in case something or someone tried to start trouble. Estelle herself seemed fine.]

Omnic is the term for artificial intelligence like her- people in their own right, even if machine. They were developed- well, I was still a kid when they came around and I'm in my fifties now. [So Omnics existed for at least forty-some years. Knew people who had helped create them who were a little younger than himself, and some a little older.] They don't have it great in some places, but Paris is one of those where Omnics and people live in harmony.

Good to see she's doing well for herself and bringing a dream like that here.

[perfectenn]

[ Heh, what a strange dream world this is, to be meeting figures from ancient folktales and those from technologically advanced societies. ]

I see. Robots are still rudimentary where... or when I'm from, I suppose. I've seen more demonstrations of advancing AI in Japan lately, but none self-aware like her.

[ Interesting to think that, someday, in a hundred years or so, they may have AI entertainers, too. He would like to hope they'd be received well... but given history, he can see why there'd be mixed reception. The entertainment industry is competitive, overcontrolling, and whole new systems of rules would have to be put into place... he can understand why those with dreams like Estelle would want to be in control of their own fate. Hopefully, she’ll find a haven here among all the other unique residents, and the freedom to pursue her art form as she wishes. ]

[steadypulse]

They're pretty common, as are those who are far less advanced. Some are literal tanks or- well. Things haven't recovered well all over since the Omnic Crisis- some still are afraid or don't see those around as any different from those bent on wiping out humanity.

[Plating up, taking he time to make sure the flapjacks were nice and fluffy before setting bacon beside them. A few blackberries dropped along to go with the orange zest within the flapjacks themselves.

That and the bacon was set down in front of Tenn along with a knife and fork, and a little jar of blackberry shimmering honey set beside that.]

There's a big difference between the type of Omnic she is and those war machines, but some won't ever forget those years of hell and terror. Can't blame them- I fought in it, know how bad it got.

[All the same, he could tell the difference; those who needed and were owed the same amount of protection as any other person.]

Not an appetizing conversation, sorry about that. I just worry her appearing ere might mean the other types might land here and it wouldn't be good for anyone.

[perfectenn]

[ Serious conversation, but the good smells are only increasing. Pancakes! Next to omurice, it’s one of his childhood comfort foods. He takes a sip of his coffee to distract from his mouth watering. And it’s… really good, actually! The cream is rich, and the coffee underneath has a fine, full flavor. Longer sip, closing his eyes for this one.

Fortunately, he's not so distracted as to lose track of the conversation. It brings a few questions to mind, like the fact that thus far, this world isn’t suited to technological lifeforms. A tank or giant robot would stand out right away… and may not survive long depending on what it encountered. But also, if it panicked, how much damage it could cause. Or if an AI would be smart enough to lay low and adapt.

It’s a big forest with unexplored wastelands beyond. When Tenn lets his imagination run off with him, he too wonders about what might be found at Here There Be Dragons. ]

No. It's a good warning to have. We're doing our best to suppress Noctaere transformations, and now the Erasers. But we shouldn't drop our guard and assume that's all that's out there.

[ Brightening again because, yes, those pancakes do look 100% as good as they smell, especially now that he’s catching the berry and citrus notes. (Is that going to stop him from living his honey galaxy dreams? Nope. Jar being opened.) His smile returns, led by anticipation, though his tone retains a solemn touch. ]

We can only focus on what's in front of us. But as we address one thing at a time, we're free to prepare for the next. It's why I want to make as much progress as we can now.

[steadypulse]

[Estelle was only technically harmless- he didn't doubt if it came down to it she would defend herself to the best of her abilities. Hell, he hoped she would, while hoping it never came down to it in a place like this. Just another reason to keep an eye on the cabaret.

The paranoia would always run high, really.]

At the very least Erasers are easier to deal with, considering I spent nearly two years fighting them in another world. [Didn't make it any less bothersome or dangerous, depending on the work meant for them-] Hell, managed to keep a hold of the one in a jar from the witch's hut. Pissed off as ever, knocked itself off the shelf I'd had it on.

Only thing it managed was knocking off the label that was keeping some folded piece of paper hidden under it. [Kept a lot of things- like the letter from the Storyteller.] Found something to help with Noctaere a bit at least, informed the couple I know who might be able to do something with the flowers.

[Under Kazuma's advice when they found the Glowing Dawn flowers, at least.

76 leaned against the counter then, scritching the chin of the one Garnish noodle that hung around him as he took a moment for himself.]

Reason I'm keeping a look out every time I head out at night, or in to the Wildlands. [Or the taskboard.]

[perfectenn]

[ Tenn presses his palms together in front of him in a traditional Japanese thanks before starting. He's neat and practiced about cutting the pancakes into bite-sized pieces without squashing them, and artistic in arranging the honey spread as he likes. ]

I did wonder if there was a spell on the bottle. It would be helpful if there was a way to contain the big Erasers, too. If we could raise a barrier around the town or protect sections of it.

[ Having vigilant fighters around was reassuring, but additional safeguards would aid their efforts. If they just covered clinics, gardens, and other vulnerable places... the entire residential area would be ideal. But how much magic and resources would that take? Especially not knowing if the witch blew a spell into the glass itself, or if it was some sort of coating applied afterwards. Or something that must be cast on the Eraser itself. That would be less ideal for their goals, but still potentially useful.

He’s about to ask what methods they used in the Realm of Stories, but stops cutting into the pancakes and looks up at 76. ]

Heeh? There were notes on the bottle?

[ Alas, his previous cat form did not grant him the best vision outside of low light. ]

[steadypulse]

They are basically made of "magical" ink and written words on scraps of paper. It's what they all disintegrate into once destroyed, and even that vanishes after a bit.

[Water was very effective, even if crude and only did so much damage. He certainly was able to destroy those witches with just water and dreamotion with a bit of help. Comparatively? They were a lot easier to deal with that Noctaere.

Didn't make the thought of them somehow being combined any less worrisome.

76 hummed, letting himself lean a bit against the bar counter on his side of it.]

Yeah, it was a folded piece of paper just tucked under the label before it was sealed onto the lid. Nothing had tampered with it since it's been in my possession, but I have to admit that was... a pretty remarkable place to seamlessly hide something.

[Hell, the dip of the lid had made it go unnoticed. Blended in.]

[perfectenn]

[ Tenn rests his hand thoughtfully against his chin. He can picture it, because the same is done on bottles of medicine in his era — long labels that are sticky and folded in on themselves. It's a good way to hide or efficiently store a list. He'd read in Anya's report that all of the witch's records seemed to have been hastily torn and hidden in nooks and crannies. This would still fit. ]

I see... what did it say? Were you able to read it?

[ A spell, a recipe, another riddle – anything could be useful. Even notes on her research and theories. Tenn takes a distracted first bite of pancake- and raises his head, expression brightening. The flavor is sweet at first, then tart. ]

Ah... this is really good!

[steadypulse]

It looked like a recipe, and it had some of the plants you and I gathered from her hut. Honestly, it slipped my mind due to something coming up.

[There was the entire- well, dealing with Kazuma and his need to be out in the Wildlands, things popping up in town. The entire month of and it's nonsense before the Christmas dreamscape.

A good bit had happened in the few days between that discovery and then people being wrapped up in the holidays. Helping get this pub off the ground as well.]

Glad you like it. I always put a little orange zest in to the batter because of the flavor it brings, along with whatever else is wanted- like blackberries.

[perfectenn]

It’s a good combination that enhances the tartness of the berries without being overwhelming. Thank you.

[ Tenn compliments with the assurance of someone who knows his desserts. Though, it may be hard to tell how much of his enthusiasm is based on the hope of making progress in potion brewing, and how much is attached to the pancakes. (Oh, the bacon is good, too.) Around the small, quick bites and satisfied chewing of fluffy cakes, his mind rushes ahead to work. If some of the herbs are a match, there’s a high probability the recipe is related. He should take it to the apothecary and examine the formula against what they’ve attempted so far. For, like with pancakes, one little thing mixed in or left out makes an impact. ]

I’m going to the apothecary after this. I’d like to take the list with me, if that’s all right. [ But since he’d prefer 76 to keep it as well: ] But don’t give me the original. I can imprint a copy into my journal.

[steadypulse]

Can stop in whatever morning I'm working and I'll make more for you. I'm usually in early.

[Partly because he at times rested in the adjoining room given to him, and others to get some cleaning and prep in to try and make life a little easier for those younger than him working here. Top up stock for what could be kept easily and the like.

Still, arms folded and rested on the bar counter for the moment.]

I've got it kept in my journal, along with those talismans and all. Handwriting matches what we know to be hers at least as well, or I'd not have mentioned it, just in case. [Given what he assumed to be a frame job being ran by the Story Eater couldn't be too careful. Paranoia ran high, checked out enough for him, and the way it had been hidden- well.

He felt they might've all been more expected in that hut than initially thought as things came together.] But yeah, it's alright. Can let you copy it once you're done eating.

[perfectenn]

I will. And I’m sure the lunch and dinner menu will be good, too.

[ You can’t feed him this bacon and pretend there’s not honey-glazed ham back there somewhere.

Without deadlines and a packed schedule looming over his head, Tenn takes his time savoring the meal unrushed. The warmth and ease of having just waiting while someone cooked for him stirs nostalgia for how long it’s been. His teammates used to fix breakfast in the mornings; he’d gotten used to it. He never minded cooking for himself since he was good at it, but it was nice to feel spoiled once and a while.

Looks like he'd be returning to work soon, as well. Tenn stirs a fluffy bit of pancake on his plate, contemplating. ]

To leave so many things, I suppose this is further confirmation that she is on our side. Or at least, that she wants to protect the dream worlds. Wherever she is, I hope she is all right.

[ It’s perhaps a bit silly to be hoping that the great and terrible Baba Yaga is okay, especially when they saw evidence that she can take care of herself. Nevertheless, the sentiment remains. And he wants to make sure her efforts are honored. ]

[steadypulse]

Definitely- more so since it isn't just me in the kitchen, Miss Mikotoba knows and is learning even more how to make her way around cooking; teaching her some of my recipes and picking some up from her to share the weight.

[There was definitely a lot of honey-glazed meats some days, ham included. Always depended on what meat they managed to get either from the market or whatever was hunted up. Reason the menu made it clear the meat being served changed up some days.

Having a variety of cooking styles didn't hurt, either. A mix of Eastern and Western, and he knew a bit more than the midwestern home cooking he grew up with simply due to the fact he lived all over the globe. Picking up recipes and practicing was... one of the few ways he could keep grounded with the stress, and even then near the end he didn't have time to do anything.

This? Was like picking up some old comfort, even if he'd never say anything and just cook up food without a fuss.]

Yeah, I had a feeling. Also getting the feeling she expected us there and just... more reason to leave things in hopes we'd find these pieces to help us. [Didn't doubt she was focusing elsewhere and leaving what they might need there.

He'd seen and heard of more bizarre things-]

Hell, back in that other world? Captain Hook fought at our side against the Story Eater after having tried to fight it on his own when it attacked him in the story of Peter Pan.