The Butterfly Inn (Gabe)

The Butterfly Inn and Bathouse was located at the edge of the Toyko Strip, taking up a large lot of its own. Five years ago this place had been small with only a few spirits and humans visiting the place from time to time; however, after that rather unfortunate incident had occurred and flipped the city upside down, the inn was able to grow to a size that even Calabus wasn’t expecting. In fact, the man made demon had expected the place to collapse under the panic and chaos that came in with the rise of demons back then.

She remembered coming back to city that night five years ago. Remembered the chaos and panic that had sized the place as demons had crawled from their hiding places to “explore” their new home and become “friends” with the locals. It was complete havoc, but even worse than that was trying to stop the war at her own inn. You see, all the spirits that had been lounging about in the inn unseen were suddenly revealed to the human guests that had no idea that one door over there was some ghost lady or maybe even a strange creature that was catching up on some z’s.

Within the course of a few hours, her whole establishment had become a chaotic mess as humans either fled or tried to fight against the spirits. In turn, the spirits got so wound up that some were actually attacking humans! The perfect balance of her establishment had been ruined due to some crazy explosion and a green light. She couldn’t believe it. And oh it gets better.

On her own she had to wade into that chaos and actually play bad guy against some of the spirits! To be turned against those that made her money was almost too much to bare; however, despite the loss Calabus hung onto her tattered establishment and rebuilt the piece by piece. It was hard at first, but when the Queen came in and took control things began to smooth over. Calabus wasn’t sure how, but some way the woman had come in with her Cadets and got the chaotic situation under control. And from there? Well…

Calabus would pull herself back to the present as she stayed in the upstairs room for now, the inn was quiet as most of the guests here now were either late sleepers or had left for some other early morning errand. There were a few spirits that were up and about, but they knew better than to make the humans aware of them as they tip-toed to their rooms or towards the baths before it got crowded. The only “spirit” that did not hide itself was the one that currently manned the front desk in the disguise of a rather bored looking young man.

As the master of the inn stayed upstairs and away from guests for now, this lone male would remained leaned against the counter as he looked around the area with a strange set of eyes -one was an odd reddish color and the other a shocking grey blue. His black hair was a messy mop that somehow still looked good against atop his head. His skin was pale white making him seem like a ghost sitting there in the gloom provided by the morning light. He wore the traditional Japanese wear that was kept up with the theme of the inn, but the flip phone in his hand showed that he was far from a traditionalist.

While the young man sat at the desk, he would lean against the counter propping his head up with one hand of oddly painted nails while he used his free hand to check up on the news. Most of the stuff was he found was the usual bore of a city that could not sit still; however, his thumbnail would hover over the latest story on the war against the Terrorists that ran amok. Heh this one actually managed to keep some video footage, he wondered just how much entertainment he could get out of this one.

Clicking on the link, he would begin to dig to see what he could find out about the incident both in the legal and not so legal ways; however, no one would ever know what he was doing his screen appearing to be nothing more than a news story in an odd language suggesting perhaps he was a foriegner to the English speaking city. In any case, he would keep reading as he waited to see if the morning hours would bring in any guests.

Note:

Wait...... what?" Gabe found himself in a strange place once again. The place itself wasnt so strange, but nowdays, he just finhds himself want=dering from time to dtome.  He didnt have to go in to work  this time aorund, which was goood due to the less stress. Afterall, Gabe found himself more at home, starting on his story and thinking about other things. " Sigh...." Maybe what gae really needed was a hot bath in order to clear his head.  Maybe that was what Gabe needd the most afterall. " ......." The ringing of the front door was somethignt hat can be heard from the individual that was at the front desk.  Met by the sound of the door opening, and older gabe would appear. His hair was combed up this time around  and he appeared to be in a well made suit. Mayny things can e guesssed as to what job Gabe was acapable of because of how he looked, but it was safe to say that  he was respectble and had money for his stay.



Gabe gave the fellow a light smile has he was looking through his video. Gabe wasn't too sure what was going on, but it wasn't in his place to pry whatsoever. "So how exactly does this work? How long can i stay for depending on the pay?"

At the sound of someone entering the young man at the desk would glance up briefly at the other, scanning the man up and down with a bored expression before his strange eyes would drift back to the phone for a moment as he snapped it closed with a light sigh. For someone who was suppose to be providing customer service this guy didn’t seem like he was making an effort to be friendly or welcoming as he placed the phone on the counter before leaning slightly towards the other as he rested his pale hands upon the dark colored counter palms down as his eyes narrowed.

“Well, I guess that depends on you and what amount you are willing to shovel out,” the young man said his voice laid back rather than bubbly or excited like a desk clerk should probably be. There was no “welcome” or other such shinengains. Just words that were straight to the point, suggesting that the young man either A) didn’t have good social skills or B) was focused on business alone. Whatever the case was, the young man would continue as he blinked sleepily. “Here at the Butterfly Inn we have various offers to suit your needs, everything from the simple to over the top. So the real questions is: How long do you plan to stay and what exactly do you want out of the stay? Tell me exactly what you want and I can give you a price for days. If you want a list of what we have to offer, well then here you go,” the young man would lean back as a bit as he reached under the counter and pulled out a laminated sheet that listed various service at the inn. Entertainment, baths, types of rooms, room service, etc, etc. If the man were to look at the list and then later look up again at the young man, he would find the young man had simply vanished from his spot. If the man simply kept his eyes on the other, then he would see the young man give him a frown as he faded away from view.

If that wasn’t strange enough, a few seconds after this, the man at the counter would hear a female voice speak to him.

“We have a flat rate of 300 VC per night for the rooms and baths alone; however, if you want more than that, then naturally the bill will go up according to what you add,” the voice was saying from somewhere to his left and further inside of the building. If the man was to turn he would find the young owner of the establishment known as Calabus standing not too far away from him wearing a friendly smirk as she watched him from her spot. She was dressed in a red kimono with elegant birds upon it drawn in gold. Her long green locks were pinned up in a bun held in place by chopsticks that had what appeared to be small skulls dangling off the end of them. Unlike the grumpy young man, this woman appeared to behave more like a host than the other....and apparently she had witnessed the encounter.

“Forgive the rudeness of the desk keeper. Usually, I make it down here to relieve him from his duties much quicker than I managed to do so today, so I do apologize for any trouble he may have given you,” the young woman would say with a humble bow before standing again. “My name is Calabus, I am the owner of this humble establishment. May I have the name of the one i have the pleasure of speaking to today?”

She would pause as she looked over at the other with a tilt of her head, curiosity and friendliness in her eyes.

What a strangely vulgar man, what made him act in such a way? Surely this wasn’t the pinnacle of customer service, correct? Gabe came here for a few reasons, but the biggest one was out of nostalgia. He would come here with his father at times, and now being here alone, it seems like a moot point when the receptionist was being too inviting. “Well, I was planning on staying for the night….” Gabe would say as he looked at the sheet. “Nothing fancy, just a room and access to the hot springs. Maybe I should put it on my card, my name is -..” And just like that, the receptionist appeared. Gabe looked around with a frown.

Another voice appeared and it seemed to be the owner of the establishment. Gabe quickly received the flat rate of what he wanted and nodded his head in acknowledgement. “Were all human beings, bad days aren’t alien to us. Frankly, in some situations, we all deserve the benefit of the doubt at times. “ Gabe came here for peace and relaxation, and that’s what he was going to get. After walking forward, Gabe held out his hand to the young woman as she introduced her name as Calabus. “As I was trying to say before, my name is Gabriel Gatsby…..it’s a pleasure”

When the young man at the desk gave the man the sheet, he would observe him with cool expression as he watched the other read the laminated sheet and speak. He was a pretty guy, well dressed, and seemed wealthy enough. He was the type of customer one would think the young man would try to keep, but it seemed for the moment the only thing the young man wanted was to be away from everyone. Maybe he was tired. Or maybe some other motive drove this rude behavior that could most certainly damage a good reputation. Whatever, the case was the young man wouldn't stick around long enough for the other to start questioning him. In fact, the young man would only stick around to hear what the other wanted before mismatched eyes drifted towards the open community room as the young man felt a tug in the air that only he understood.

It was about time she had arrived. Finally! he could retire for now. Feeling relieved, the young man's eyes would drift back to the man as he contemplating apologizing, but then deciding against the action for now, the young man would simply vanished from view.

While the incident seem to baffle the man at the front desk when he did decide to look back up, the young woman named Calabus that had come to replace the young man for now did not seem bothered by whatever had just happened. Was this perhaps normal for her? Or did she just pretend not to see what had occurred? It was hard to say.

In any case, Keeping a friendly smile and air about her, Calabus would nod at her potential guest.

"That is true and I think if you stick around until night time you'll find that is he more bark than bite. At least with sleep he is a bit more civil. Even so," the woman would pause and place her hands on her nicely shaped hips as she shook her head. "He shouldn't have done that. I could've lost not only some face value here, but a valued customer," she would look back up at the other and smile. "I am glad you didn't walk away."

The young woman was actually pretty happy, the man had stayed. Honestly, if this one had turned away, Calabus would've had to put a serious hurting on her front desk attendant. She was aiming to run a high class business here and she would not tolerate anything or anyone bringing it down. No. She already had enough of that insanity in the past.

Hm?

The woman saw the man approach and hold out his hand. Ah. Yes. The American way. Alright then, she supposed she could break out of character for this. Meeting the guy halfway, she would grasp his hand in a firm yet gentle grip.

"The honor is mine, Mr. Gatsby. So I hear you plan to stay the night. Well then, we have various rooms to accommodate you. Would you like to take a look at some? Or perhaps have a tour if this is your first time here?" she would ask.

Walking away would be quite rude of me, as well as needless. Sometimes, people share in the festivities of throwing decent amounts of shade or catching a fit. I require nothing of the sort to maintain any sort of manhood or pride, ii simply try to see everything from another point of view. Besides..." Gabe would say as he looked to the woman. " I came here to be away for a while, it wouldn't make any sense in going back as of yet. " Gabe would shake her hand, taking notice of its softness before putting his hands back to his sides naturally. " Two nights, I'll be in your care for quite some time, if you will. "

When the offer of a tour was being extended to Gabe, he nodded and stepped forward. "If you would? I would most certinately appreciate it Ms. Calabus.

Oho. What a charming man this was. Calabus couldn't help, but smile warmly at him as her eyes narrowed with the action.

"Ah. So you are more of the simplistic and flowing type then? You know the ones that adapt rather than rebel against everything thrown at them? That is a truly remarkable trait if I have guessed right," Calabus said seeming to be impressed by how easily the other took the behavior of her front desk attendant. Most became angry and snapped when thrown a curve ball like that, but this one? This one proved he was the true man in this case and he didn't even have to be cocky or showy about it. Why couldn't more be gents like him? Despite how pleased this made Calabus, the woman would remain professional all the while.

"Away for a while, huh? Mind me asking what you are being away from?" the woman would ask before becoming quiet to see if he would answer. When the offer to shake hands came about the woman would grasp the other's hand taking note of grip and other things when it came to the short lived ordeal. He didn't seem to crush her hand like other males, so that was a plus. Maybe a sign, he actually thought rather than mindlessly carried out actions. Hmmm. Interesting if true, but assumptions were assumptions no? While the man was pleasing to be around, he still had a while to go before he could actually gain the true trust from the business woman.

In any case, when he said yes to the tour, the woman would nod as she watched him take a step forward. As he moved, she would hold her arm out slightly to the other.

"Well then, I'll be quite honored to show you around Mr. Gatsby," she said and then hesitated only long enough to see if he would take her offered arm. If he did, he would find the woman gently hooking her arm around his, so that when they walked they would be side-by-side. If he refused the offer, then the arm would drop back to her side naturally.

Either way, Calabus would begin the tour as she began to move around the lower flooers at a casual and relaxed pace.

"Two nights is wonderful amount of time to sample all we have to offer if you wished. For first floor entertainment, we offer this large community area where you can sit and read, perhaps enjoy breakfast, or chat with the few that come down here early. The morning hours offer relaxation and peace, while the afternoons see the place turned into more a tavern setting, and the evenings more on the entertainment side. While we don't have an event now, I guarantee you'll find something to keep you entertained if you stick around long enough."

The woman would lead them through the large sitting area where a few morning birds read papers, drank coffee, or simply sat by the windows staring at the scenery beyond. It was peaceful with the only sound breaking the silence was the quiet tinkling of the fountain that sat near the middle of the room pouring down into a small man made river that seemed to lead somewhere else.

Calabus would come to a large door and pause to open it. Just on the other side there was a more traditional dining area and a second door.

“If you prefer traditions, we offer many such places for your dining pleasure and if you want you can even have room services if you prefer to keep to yourself. Our kitchens are open all the time and all you need to do is either ask a wandering staff member or myself to get you something and we shall. You are also welcome to ask the chef directly for things; however, be warned that the night staff may be a bit much in comparison to the morning staff,” she would chuckle lightly in amusement at some thought before continuing. “In any case, all of our cooks are trained in various arts of cooking, so that even the pickiest of eaters can find something to enjoy.”

She would back out of the dining area and turn slightly to go up a staircase.

“Up here are the rooms. We offer everything from small and quaint to large and extravagant,” she would say as she continued to move. “Doors with black markers hanging off of them are reserved for special guest, while red means occupied, and jade means open,” she said as she moved down the hall and paused before a door with a green token on it.

She would open the door and offer for Gabriel to go in. If he did, he would find himself in a spacious room equipped with a small living area in the center, a small kitchen like area to the right and a bathroom further in and hidden around a corner to the left. Past the living area was a pair of doors that led out to a balcony and the best view one could possibly want in a place like this. To be honest the place was like a small apartment rather than an inn room. Heh. There was even a place to do laundry if you wanted. If seemed the inn did not want its guests wandering away so soon.

“This is one of the common rooms that we offer. They come equip with everything needed to enjoy your stay whether short or long. You don’t have worry about cleaning, our staff is always on hand to pamper and keep everything just right. If your more independent, we respect that and will give your space if you request it,” Calabus said as she stayed near the door allowing the man to examine the place as much as he wanted. When he was done, she would go back into the hall and close the door.

“This floor is mainly dedicated to everyone, while the third floor is for our spirits. If you care to pay them a visit, I advise you to be very respectful and perhaps bring an offering or two if you are looking to make friends,” Calabus would say as she paused by the stairs that led further up. Unlike the area they were in now, the upper floors seemed a bit more quiet and more tense as if something was constantly watching the people below…though nothing physical showed itself.

Calabus would make a light bow of respect to the stairs and whatever was above before moving on. She would lead the other back downstairs and head towards a door near the back.

“You mentioned the baths earlier,” she said as she pushed the door open and led them into a wide hall where the hum of water could be heard and the wall on either side were decorated by dragons and phoenixes. “They all rest back here,” she said as she continued walking until she came to a cross road. She would move to the center and of it and pause.

“There are four main paths here. To my left is female only. To my right is male only, and behind me is mixed. Depending on your comfort, you are welcome to go to whichever pleases you most, but do try to respect others if you are one to be more daring than some. Our bath staff are superb and quick to answer calls. I promise you won’t experience a bath quite like the ones here. After all, pampering is what we do best here, Mr. Gatsby” she would say with a grin and then turning she would go down the side path that led to another door. This smaller door she pushed opened took them outside.

As bright light shinned down on the world, it would illuminate a massive garden of well cared for plants and paths.

“Our last big attraction are the gardens. Like the rest of the place it is designed for relaxation,” she said as she moved outside and along a small path. She would lead the man along side a river until they came to a bridge that crossed over it. It was at the center of this bridge that she stopped and looked over at the other.

“On the other side of this bridge is the shrine to the spirits. It is a place that some of our more religious guests go to, but also a place where you can expect the unexpected to show up. Much like the third floor respect and offerings are good things to have; however, unlike the spirits inside, nature spirits can be a bit tricker to handle. Regardless, I would still recommend visiting the place just to take in its magic," she would say with as she looked over at the shaded path that led up to the large shrine on the grounds. She was quiet for only a moment before her eyes turned back to the man with her. "And that wraps up the tour. The rest is for you to discover on your stay here. I do hope this has helped you get to know the inn a bit better,” she would say humbly as she gave the other a bow a way of thanking him for sticking to the tour until the end.

I wouldn’t say it’s that perfect. Sometimes I do go with the wave, and either are moments when I decided to shift to a different tune entirely. My reasoning for that is simple, why should life be predictable? Right? Sometimes that shift is necessary for ourselves, it’s necessary for our lives to do something different act different, or be different for a change. But that’s just what I think, doesn’t make it true.

Gabe would blink and laugh a bit. “Why I need to be away huh? That’s a tough one, nostalgia? I live alone, the house is so quiet at times, and I remember coming here before when I was a lot younger with my father. Perhaps I seek to relive that today…”At least Gabe was honest about it, and perhaps he was a little lonely. He didn’t like to admit it, but he was scared, he was scared that if it got quiet enough, she would come for him.

“It would be my pleasure to be here, I guess we can get on with the tour then. “ Gabe was excited to look around the facility. Even though he was paying for his stay, he still hoped he wouldn’t be too much of a burden for the owner.

“Oh so I can read as much as I want? Perhaps I could get some inspiration while I’m here. That and breakfast doesn’t sound like a bad thing. I don’t mind mingling with the guests. I’m actually looking forward to the entertainment you have in store. “Gabe would say with an excited grin. As they talked about the food, Gabe shook his head. “I’ll eat anything, but I think I’m allergic to mushrooms? I can't really remember to tell you the truth if I am or not. But I love to enjoy a clam chowder as much as the next man. “

Gabe would raise his eyebrows towards the black markers. “Do you have important or political guests often? I’m expecting that only those with some sort of power get to stay in those rooms. “Looking to the common room, Gabe would smile. “This is more than enough for me, thank you.” Though, Gabe would raise his eyebrow. “Spirits? Well, we know demons exist, I wonder if its something of the ghost variant? “ Gabe would say a little jokingly.

Off to the baths, Gabe would smile” Of course, respect is my middle name. I came here for the baths mostly, the warmth of the bath itself is said to heal wounds of the heart and spirit. Wounds are not seeable to others, but experienced by one. Is it a myth?” Gabe was going to try it anyway, but he was looking forward to her answer.

More sprits it seems, this place has a theme to it. “ Thank you for the tour, but I must ask, does this place contain a history connecting itself to “spirits” of any kind?

“Perhaps it is not true, but the points you have a valid. I have to admit I prefer watching the world change and be unpredictable than fall into some mundane ritual of sameness. Not that I judge those that choose such a path in life; even so I find sameness boring, so I can appreciate your way of thinking,” she would say her smile never fading. It was an honest response. The world was troubling enough without adding boredom to the mix. Guess she was kind of lucky her current profession kept her on her toes then.

To the next response, the woman would watch the other for a bit in silence as she took in his mood and then understanding adapted to it. Her air remained friendly, but even more humble than before.

“It is always good to see a returning customer. I hope we can live up to your expectations then. As for being alone, we may charge for rooms, baths, and services, but we do not charge if you simply wish to hang around the inn. In fact, if you like you are welcome to come and help out if you like or mingle with the staff here. If you feel alone, remember us and come back,” she would say her words genuinely kind. Loneliness was a heavy burden, even more so when painful thoughts were attached to them. While she did not suffer from this problem, she had seen a few come through her doors and go back out of them with burdens she could not begin to comprehend. For the ones that stayed strong, they returned time and time again until they were strong enough to walk again. As for the others….well, she didn’t like to dwell on those endings.

Regardless of her thoughts the young woman’s cheerful air would return rather quickly as the other spoke about staying and the tour.

“I have a feeling you are going to be a delight to pamper. Come,” she would say before beginning the tour. As they walked, they would talk.

“Of course. As long as you are here, this inn is your home. We are family here and quite open about it,” Calabus would say as she gave a light nod to a woman at the window who had looked over at them as they passed. “Inspiration can be found anywhere if you look in the right places. Our gardens open room to think, but sometimes stories from others can shed light in places you never thought to look,” Calabus would say and then pause and chuckle lightly at the entertainment bit. “I am sure you won’t be disappointed,” she said, quite amused.

When it came to food, she would pause in the dining area and turn to face the other.

“Hmm, food allergies, eh? That is a good thing to know. I’ll be sure to let the chefs know to be extra careful for you. In any case, you seem like the sort the chefs will adore since you will be easy to feed despite that. Say are you hungry now? Want to sample something?” she would ask and then wait for an answer.  

If he said, yes. She would lead him to the door that led into the kitchen. As soon as they entered the scent of various foods would come at them as the sounds of pots and pans being moved and chatter could be heard from behind a wall of counters and low hanging walls. As they entered, a heavy set lady would lean down to look between the opening at them and upon seeing them give a hearty laugh and greet them.

After a brief introduction, Calabus would ask for one of the chef’s honey biscuits to sample and when the warm item was handed over neatly wrapped in a napkin, Calabus would thank the chef and turn to Gabe and offer the biscuit to him to sample. Once taken, she would give him a moment to eat it if he wished before thanking the chef for letting them stay and then heading back on the tour.

If he refused the offer, then the whole event would be skipped and they would leave the dining area.

On the upper floors, Calabus would continue to play tour guide.

“Officials are rare, but people of money are not as rare. Those rooms are typically for them or the occasional powerful spirit that comes across our steps. We aim to keep everyone happy regardless ranks and power here. And those of power know better than to attempt throw their weight around in my house,” Calabus said with a nod and then letting him into a common room, she would let him explore giving him a smile when he seemed pleased.

“Excellent. If you have any bags you’d like brought up, I can have the staff fetch them for you and gets you squared away in your new home,” she would say before returning to the halls once more. As they moved about, she would hear the question about spirits and turn slightly to the other as she raised an eyebrow in an amusement.

“Spirits are just as real as demons, Mr. Gatsby. They aren’t of the dead as some assume, but rather they live on a plain that up until about five years ago was unseen by the eyes of humans not in-tune with them.  Just like people, they have their own rules, cultures, and ideas of respects. As long as you obey those rules, you shouldn’t have a problem with them…Though I will admit some are more spoiled and demanding than others and if you are not carefully they can get attached and follow you. How pleasant that is honestly depends on what gets attached to you. They represent many things and are actually cousins to demons. They are just not as hostile as the ones that come about at night,” she would explain as they moved on.

On the pathway to the baths, Calabus would give the other a smile at his words.

“I do hope that is not a jest. I would hate to have to send someone to get you to behave if it proves otherwise,” Calabus would say as she gave the other  a grin that said she was playing rather than being serious about the words; however, to his question the woman would fold her arms and look up at the ceiling in thought.

“Mmm. I would think our baths can indeed heal. I have heard both human and spirits walk away with high recommendations for the baths. So I don’t think its a myth when they say it can indeed wash away the scars and heaviness of the world leaves upon us,” she would say as she looked back down at the other with a nod. She seemed to be quite confident a good bath and relaxation could heal anything.

From there they would go outside and stop on the bridge.

“Mhmm. That is a long story, but the short answer to that is yes. Ever since I was allowed to build and run this place, my doors have been open to humans and spirits alike; however, the biggest one that resides here we simply call the Guardian. She is nature and healing itself. She presides over everything here and brings good fortune. You may not see her all the time, but trust me she is always there. If you see my front desk attend around maybe you should ask him to introduce you to her sometime. He may seem like a grouch, but he ain’t so bad,” Calabus would say to the other with a warm smile.

From here the woman would fall silent listening to nature for a bit before her eye was caught by a guest that was waving her over.

“Pardon me for a moment,” she would say before leaving Gabe on the bridge. As she left to go assist the guest, Gabe would feel a presence to his left and somewhere behind him and if he were to turn, he would find the pale young man from the front desk on the other side of the bridge leaning against the railing as he kept his head turned away as he looked out at the gardens beyond. His shades he had on his head were down now, and he seemed to wear a neutral expression as he watched the gardens.

Where he came from or how he got there so quietly was a mystery, but it seemed now Gabe had a choice.

He could either attempt to interact with the moody young man and wait for Calabus to return, or ignore him and go off on his own. The question was…what would he do now?

Gabe would decline when he was offered something to eat. "I would much rather save my appetite for later on if you don't mind. Besides, i'm already receiving such hospitality with this nice tour you are giving me, lets focus on that for now. "Gabe was in fact enjoying himself, and he would grin in delight as the tour continued.

So nature, whoever or whatever that is, was the guardian of this place. An unseen guardian seems to be a very delightful concept to experiment with when it comes to Gabe's book. " Oh, you have to.....dont worry about me then, i'll be right here..." Gabe would say with a small bow as he waited for the woman at the spot she left him in. When she left, Gabe noticed a presence, which turned out to be that young man again, leaning over and probably observing something. Remembering what the woman said before, Gabe thought it was in his best interest to be nice and greet the man.

"Salutations.... "Gabe would say with a small wave as he walked over to the male. "What do you seem to be looking at?"

Calabus would chuckle lightly at the other.

“You are kind with your words, but as you wish. We shall continue on and worry about spoiling you even more later,” she would say with a pleasant smile before moving on to continue the tour. It was odd, but out of the many tours she had given, she didn’t believe she had had this much fun with a guest in a long while. Maybe it was his personality or odd way of speaking, but Calabus did find the man charming and pleasing to show the inn off to. She wasn’t sure, but the appreciation he seemed to show in all this made her feel a bit proud to have such a guest staying with them. She’d be sure to tell the staff to treat him with extra care.

The walk was enjoyable to the woman making it kind of sad that she had to leave the guy’s side so soon as another guest waved her over. As he was leaving, she would take only a moment to return the bow given before wandering off, leaving the man on the bridge alone for the moment.

With Calabus gone, the young man from the front desk would reappear from out of no where it seem and begin to study something over the bridge he was leaned against. When the other came over, his eyes would narrow behind his shades as they shifted to their corners to observe the other for a moment before drifting away once more. It would take a moment, but if the other was patient he would eventually receive a response back.

“Oh hey. I see you are still here. That's good,” the response would begin in casual tones that held neither hostility nor friendliness to them. The tone was neutral, but the attitude of the young man seemed more relax than earlier so maybe whatever had him grumpy before had passed. Regardless of the case, he didn’t seem bothered by Gabe as he shifted slightly in his spot to point a red and black tipped snow white finger towards the water below.

If the other looked at the water, he would find crystal clear water below and in that water a large koi fish or two. The young man would fold his arms across the railing of the bridge as he continued to lean forward and watch the fish swim by. After a few seconds, his pale lips would part once more.

“I was observing the fish and wondering two things. One: Is the small selection we have now impressive enough or not? And two: would anyone actually notice if I ate one of the fish? They look tasty with all their colors and size,” the young man said as he watched the fish below swim about. His questions were an odd mix, but he didn’t seem to see anything wrong with what had been said. Maybe this oddness was just his way, or maybe it suggested something else about the man. Whatever the case was, Gabe had now caught the interest of the pale young man. After all, he did not expect the other to actually attempt to speak with him once more after the earlier encounter.

So kudo to the gent for being understanding and a bit bold. Even so, could this man actually handle the unpredictable young man? Only time would tell.

Still here? What do you mean? Why would I leave?” That was a strange thing for the man to say. Wouldn’t he want customers to stay here and enjoy themselves? For most individuals, customer service is definitely a factor when it comes to whenever a person would like to stay or take their business elsewhere. However, Gabe was an unnaturally patient man due to his upbringing. His parents were patient with him, so that mettle must have rubbed off on him. Though, after the man pointed, he would take a look at the fish that he was pointing at. “Ahh..”

Gabe then stepped forward. “Those are quite the rare specimen, Koy fish. I think I always wanted to see one when I was an adolescent. Now, I just got my wish. “ Though, the man did ask two strange questions. “I think it’s impressive enough that you have them in the first place. It’s the quality style of an aquarium in order to obtain such rare fish. It’s nice to observe their beauty, and appreciate the freedom that represent by swimming so peacefully in the pond. “Gabe then paused. “Maybe it’s not freedom, but a peace of mind with the lacking predators of course, besides yourself from your previous statement.”

Gabe would then look to the man.” However, I would notice. If it as any other fish no, perhaps it would lead people to care less, but the unique paring of the solid colors always make it seems as if one simply cannot exist without the other. With light, there is darkness, and vice versa. They swim around eachother in a swirl, creating the harmony that is themselves. Just like you and Calabus. You would be the back koy fish, and she would be the right. Both of you are needed, necessary, and when missing, will be missed, and desired for. “ Running his hands through his hair Gabe would smile. “ Though, that’s my speculation at least.

The young man would shrug lightly at the first set of questions.

“Maybe out of disgust or offense. You wouldn’t be the first to have been chased away by my behavior,” he would respond back easily enough as he continued to watch the fish below. While the inn did have a good reputation, it was also known that the young man that ran the front desk could have a nasty attitude with some customers. It wasn’t that he was intentionally trying to drive business away, but at the same time he wasn’t exactly going to reel in his natural behavior. Behavior that was often times feisty and biting. Not too many could handle that, but this man seemed to be the rare exception to the case.

When the other stepped forward, the young man wouldn’t budge as he listened to what the other said. To the first set of words, the man would only get a light. “Ah. Okay,” that showed the young man was at least listening, but whether he was interested in everything or not was left up in the air. His neutral tone of voice and chilled personality made it hard to tell exactly what was happening in his mind, but even so he allowed the other male to stay by him.

To the next set of words, the young man would glance over at the other with raised eyebrows as he heard the words said. He honestly had never heard anyone speak in such a fashion before. It was quite jarring, but at the same time an entertaining change of pace. Amused, the young man would smile slightly at the other.

“Peace of mind and freedom, huh? Those are some interesting reflections to gain off of a few fish; however, I kind of like that thought process. The fish are quite the view, but in my eyes still food. I wonder if they knew I wanted to eat them if they could still swim with that peace of mind you speak of,” the young man would say as his eyes went back to the fish below. He seemed pretty serious about eating them, but why aim for Koi when the place had much more than that to offer?

It was quite strange, but the young man on the bridge didn’t seem to see the wording as odd at all as he observed the fish for a bit before feeling eyes on him. Hm? He would glance back at the other who was looking at him.

“Neh?” the young man would tilt his head at the words as he gave the other a perplex look. This was deep and yet it had caught his attention quite well.

“So if I were to eat one of those fish, you are saying I knock the balance of their world off?” he would ask before shifting to the side a bit so he could look at the other better. “And what of this balance you speak of? What makes you think I am such an important cog in all this? I mean I would think some would be glad to see me gone. I am not sure how much you know the place, but I can assure you that some of the regulars can give you plenty of reasons why the boss should be canned my ass and toss me on the street,” he would say as he raised one hand to lean his head against it. “With the reputation I have going here, I don’t see how anyone could ever miss a thorn such as myself if I went missing. I think the boss is more valuable than myself...”

The young man would finish as he gave the other a light frown. He wasn’t upset or anything like that. He was just a bit confused and kind of interested in what this guy was getting at. While the words could just be that pretty words, the young man seemed to be kind of drawn to that, but why was a mystery. In any case, the man had just secured that the young man wouldn’t be leaving just yet. What a curious human.

"Well, its only a theory of course. But, is a rose without thorns? Aren't the thorns there for the rose to protect itself? Without those thorns, that rose is defenseless, anyone or anything can come upon it. Paired with its beauty, is something necessary so that the beauty is not taken for granted. Accepting both qualities of the flower, its thorns, and the red petals can lead to the full appreciation of what it truly is. You see? " Gabe would say as he dramatically points at the man, a card magically appearing from his wrist. Showing it to him, it was the jack of hearts. " Before you get to the queen, the jack appears as a counter to those who stand before this giant of a castle. Jack, who is he really? The Brother of the queen? Or the lover of the queen? Never the less, out of love you stay, cherished, an unyielding pillar of support. I believe that from the people who stay or go. The people that are here, are the people that need to be here."

Gabe would then flick his wrist and the card would seem to vanish. "The people that are supposed to be here..." After a small pause, Gabe would drop the serious exterior and smile again. "As i was trying to say, only a theory. but never doubt your importance.

Strength

Spoiler:

“….”

The young man would remain mostly quiet with the only sound escaping him being a soft sound that resembled a low purr. It was barely audible and usually something the young man kept in check; however, what he just heard had taken him a bit by surprise. This guy was something else with his words, he’d give him that. It could be annoying to those that perhaps saw them as only words, but for the young man that they were said to he was quite impressed by the meaning behind them.

He’d stay quiet for a moment longer and then, taking off his shades he would clean a bit of dust off of them as he looked up at the other with eyes narrowed against the brightness of the sun.

“Your theories are fascinating, but your words even more interesting. Tell me, are you a poet or are you just good like that?” he would ask as he gave the other a light smirk. He was amused that was for sure, but his amusement would fade briefly at the quick and dramatic motion. Tensing he would give a suspicious look towards the other, but then seeing the card appear the tension would fade as he tilted his head at it.

Hm? How did he…?

The young man’s strange eyes would drift back up to the other as he spoke before he looked back at the card as he crossed his arms a bit. Placing the edge of the arm to his shades in his mouth, he would consider the card and what was said. He was support and protection for Calabus? And the people here were meant to be here? After a moment, he would smile slightly as he unfolded his arms and put back on his shades.

“Maybe you’re right. Maybe those that are here are meant to be here. And perhaps despite the way, I treated you, this too was meant to be. I…appreciate your words and theories, Mr. Gatsby was it?” the young man would say as he leaned against the railing once more. To think that the very man he could’ve driven away would have the words he needed to hear. Ironic? Maybe, but at least the man seemed to have gained some respect from the other. At least the young man seemed to be trying to be nicer…that was until the other made the card disappear.

Tossing gentleness out the door and replacing it with something else, the young man would move closer to the other and reach for the hand that had once held the card. If allowed, he would grab the hand and examine it back in front before letting it go as he looked up at the other with a frown. How did he make it go away like that. Humans weren't magical so how?

“Again,” the young man would not ask, or even suggest, but rather demand as he took a step back to give the other a bit of room as he crossed his arms and waited. Apparently that card trick had caught his eye for the moment.

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