Slices of Life before the Looping...

[bloodypast]

Characters: Vincent Valentine, Open, one section locked (will be specified).
Where: Library, House A02
When: Septemper 16-18th-ish
Summary: Vincent is adapting to his new part-time job in the library. Come bother him, or be scared by his sudden appearance in the quiet. Also another session of Story-time, with Ophelia inviting some others now...
Warning: Potentially grumpy gunslingers?


Working in the Library

It wasn't hard work, so far. Organizing books and putting them away, and occasionally answering a question. Vincent found he kind of enjoyed the routine of it, as it required enough of his focus to not be mind-numbing, but not so much that it was taxing or a strain. It was almost zen, in terms of the calm he found. His height was an advantage in moving things around on the taller shelves, too.

He'd adapted well, aside from at least one complication so far. The flutter of wings coming around a corner as he was re-shelving, and a small voice "Excuse me kupo I was wondering if you could EEEEEEKUPO!!!" The younger moogle who'd come around the corner, obviously had gotten a look at him now. Dressed in black, even with his long-hair pulled back in a loose tail, Vincent's silhouette was still striking and creepy. His gauntlet at home( even if he felt the loss) so that his entire left arm was in black due to a glove over the ruined-arm, didn't help.

The poor little moogle, bearing a bag and a set of glasses and a bow around her pompom was shaking where she fluttered. Vincent sighed, and was careful to move slowly and as he looked at her. "What were you looking for?" Summoning up her courage, the moogle stuttered noiselessly before managing to get out her question. "His..hishistorical biographies of the first researchers kupo!" Wringing her hands, holding up her bag as if it were a shield almost.

"Down the hall past 3 stacks to non-fiction and biographies, it's next to the door."

The moogle bobbed a quick thanks and bow, and was off fast.

This type of encounter was becoming disturbingly commonplace.




Story time with guests

Ophelia was hoping Vincent wouldn't be too mad. She'd made sure to get his promise to resume his reading to her, and she'd grabbed her book about sea-legends and folk-stories. She'd also sent letters to Mogdelina and Annie, inviting them along. (Provided they didn't tease or make fun of Vincent, and respected his privacy by not sharing with their heroes.) Yuffie of course, was also informed.

The little moogle was humming happily to herself as she made tea, waiting for Vincent to get home from his part-time job, as she'd set things up so far. Making it easy for him, as she considered the debt paid and repaid. Not that she'd let him know it, just yet.

Comments

[damn_juicebox]

A hollow 'THUMP' echoed through the library, a telltale sign of someone dropping a heavy stack of books onto one of the finely crafted wooden tables. It sounded like quite a sizable stack indeed. Even Rukia, who had herself put down the load before her arms snapped out of her sockets, was eyeing the tower of books somewhat dubiously. The titles made it clear what she'd come to study:

Mastering the Beasts and Not in That Way
Black Magic and You, Lighting Pants on Fire with Reckless Abandon
Scholarly Pursuits (Not Just for Nerds)
How to Land the Perfect Job in a Tough Economy: Get Mad Loot From Your Enemies!
Gunblades: Compensating For Something?

And there were many, many others. One looked to be a comprehensive volume, newly updated, including a few new jobs Rukia hadn't heard of. Ultimately, she had to choose ten to maximize and unlock her potential. But she scarcely knew where to start.

Sigh.

Walking away from the massive literary tower, Rukia scouted through the aisles before she saw yet another vampire. Or, at least, a man with some similar characteristics to D, her sparring partner a few days ago. He was shelving books, so it seemed clear to her that he worked here.

"I beg your pardon." She opted for formal instead of squawking 'Oi!' at him, as she might with someone she already knew. "What do you know about jobs?" She could ask him for a book, and she planned to if he claimed to be too busy to talk, but she'd rather discuss it with someone in person to get their honest opinion. Besides, some of those book titles sounded a little...less than reliable, as far as source material went.

[bloodypast]

Vincent was a little surprised by the polite greeting, considering most people avoided him or stammered. It was a refreshing change as he turned, crimson eyes moving to find whoever had called. "Did you mean the regular employment kind, or the ones that allow people to have skills they might not otherwise have?" Unlike those with the 'Vampire' Job, Vincent possessed a shadow and, while quiet, was not unnaturally silent the way those with the Vampire Job were.

[damn_juicebox]

"Hmmm..." Rukia knuckled her lip in thought. She was mostly interested in plotting out her schedule of jobs, hoping to maximize as many as she could in the shortest amount of time possible.

But she also needed a way to earn more gil, as grocery shopping had proved to be far more expensive than she anticipated.

Maybe if she stopped letting herself get ripped off, her pockets would be much more full.

Finally she lifted her head, and arched her brows faintly. "...Both?" In truth, his appearance did not intimidate her, nor did the color of his eyes. He seemed calm and reserved, and therefore easily approached. Rukia was far from shy anyhow.

[bloodypast]

Vincent shelved another book as he pondered where to start with his responses. Glad that the other was taking this so calmly. "Regular employment, I suggest asking at different establishments, depending on where your interests lie." Easy enough to answer, and he'd noticed he was not the only new employee of the Library.

"As for the other kind of job, what specifically did you want to know?"

[damn_juicebox]

Rukia nodded. So far, joining the military had the most appeal, if only because it was the most similar to what she was accustomed to. But this was also a chance for her to explore some different paths. As frustrating as it was to be denied her previous capabilities, it did open up several avenues she might never have otherwise considered possible.

What was she interested in other than slaying Hollows, which didn't even exist in this world? That, she couldn't expect an answer from anyone else but herself.

"Hmmm," she tucked her head in thought. "I was hoping to discuss strategy. I am unsure if I should pursue skills most similar to my previous form's capabilities, or expand beyond. One does not necessarily need to be previously experienced in a job to undertake it, correct?"

[ninjainviolet]

Sheena, who had also managed to get a job in the library, was already heading in Vincent's direction when she heard the scream. Moving as quickly as she could through the silence, she made it there just in time to hear and see the moogle's reaction to him.

Of all things the things for people to have in common, why did judging someone based on their looks have to be one of them?

And she'd be upset about that happening to him even if she hadn't gotten a glimpse of Vincent's file. He was an all right person--if a little quiet. So different than his co-worker.

Ducking out of the way of the retreating moogle, Sheena approached him, once again noting that her navy blue suit was an almost perfect match to his black one. At least the tailors thought everyone was equal.

Coming up to him, she glanced back over her shoulder in the direction the moogle had gone. "I saw. Are you okay?"

[bloodypast]

"I'm getting used to it." Vincent responded in a dry tone, not letting any emotion show in the voice. "I am alright. Thank you, Ms. Fujibayashi." A glance in her direction as he held the stack of books.

"Hopefully it didn't disturb other patrons too much." That was all Vincent needed; to be the cause of a disturbance when he wasn't even trying to be. Honestly, he couldn't blame the citizens of Aquares Ixen for being jumpy.

[ninjainviolet]

"You shouldn't have to," Sheena retorted in an angry whisper. Just let anyone try to get him into trouble for this. They'd have to deal with an angry ninja. "It's not right. And how many times do I have to tell you that just 'Sheena' is fine?" No need for formality with her; she's pretty easygoing when it came to that.

"As far as I can tell, it didn't." She looked around to make sure. And nope; no one was even paying attention to them at all. Maybe they were used to moogles acting that way or something? They could be a little...energetic...at times. Well, Corrine was.

[bloodypast]

Moogles were as varied as people, Vincent had noticed.

"Perhaps, but life isn't based on what should or shouldn't be." Taking a moment to sort out some of the books that had gotten mis-shelved out of order, before he finished his stack.

There might've been a hint of amusement in the raised eyebrow as he turned to his fellow employee. "Would 'Miss Sheena' earn me the same scolding?" Dry humor, but Vincent had his moments.

[ninjainviolet]

So had Sheena; but really, to judge solely on looks and not actions? That was something that already existed on her world. Something that she and her friends fought against, hoping that one day it would no longer exist.

Yes, she was an idealist, but there really wasn't anything wrong with that, was there?

"Is that so?" she asked, piercing him with a look. "Then what is it based on?" She had her own answer for that, but wanted to hear his answer first.

Rising up from where she was shelving her own books--not-so-ironically on a lower shelf--she raised an eyebrow right back at him, amusement sparkling in her eyes.

"What do you think?"

Answer: yes.

Story Time [Open for those who were invited]

[thegreatninja]

Yuffie sat on the couch with a pillow sitting in her lap. Just in case the story was gripping this evening she'd have something to cling too. She glanced around and was a little surprised at the additions to this story session.

"We are going to have to start charging tickets if it continues like this."

Though Yuffie will admit that the moogles aren't too bad, they are small and they don't take up a lot of room.

"Should I make tea?" That's a thing people did and since Vincent was home it meant that Mooshoo wasn't.

Story Time [Open for those who were invited]

[forcegalactic]

"Sure." Annie flopped onto the couch next to Yuffie and held onto a pillow of her own. Vincent was kind of scary, but she had to be brave. Besides, Yuffie and several fellow Moogles would be with her, so it wasn't so bad.

"Does he do this a lot?"

To her, it felt strange that such a silent, stoic man could tell stories at all, much less have a regular storytime session with a teenager. She might have sworn to secrecy regarding his tales, but that didn't mean she really wished she could share her surprise with others.

Story Time [Open for those who were invited]

[wickedone]

"If he doesn't, I hope it happens more."

Mogdelina sat perched on the back of the couch, wings unconsciously fluttering with excitement. She'd heard a little bit about Vincent's reading, but to actually be invited to a session? She was thrilled. Her little heart might burst. Vincent was so tall, mysterious, strong...

"Romantic..." she sighed. Then, realizing that was said out loud, she hurriedly amended. "I hope there's a romantic part of the story!"

Re: Story Time [Open for those who were invited]

[bloodypast]

Ophelia fluttered out, smiling to her guests as she bore a tray with cookies; something with chocolate for Yuffie, and kupo-nut cookies for the moogles. "I already have tea made kupo. I'm just waiting for him to come home after his shift at the library. It should be any minute, but he'll want to at least take a moment kupo, before settling in."

Passing the tray to Yuffie, as Ophelia debated which part of questions to answer first. Annie's won for now. "He's done it a few times, but he stopped while he and Yuffie were fighting kupo. I got him to promise to resume though, and I've been trying for once a week at least." Now to Mogdelina's, although she shared a conspiratorial grin with her.

She was very pleased and proud of Vincent, and thought he was a dashing hero too, even if of the dark and brooding variety.

"I think there's a tale of lost love or two in there kupo. It's mostly relating to sailors, and myths and folklore about the oceans and monsters and the like."

Re: Story Time [Open for those who were invited]

[thegreatninja]

Yuffie hugged her pillow a little bit more while waiting for Vincent to come back. She wondered if he knew about the addition of moogles to their reading session. At least it would Ophelia that he frowned at instead of her.

She took the tray and then set it down in front of her. She didn't want to have to hold it and everyone could reach it on the coffee table, more or less. Yuffie grabbed some of the chocolate cookies and began to munch on them as Ophelia spoke.

"It's okay." She smiled at Mogdelina, "Vincent isn't the romantic type. Even if he has the tall, dark and brooding thing going for him but he's good at reading and his voice is hot." Let's hope Vincent didn't catch her saying that.

[sacredancestor]

[The library was the best place to seek knowledge. Perhaps D would be able to find out more about this world he came to and this Calamity he was supposed to face. Most of its inhabitants knew next to nothing about either and the ones who did... D was looking for an unbiased view more so than what Zelda let him read at her house. Historical was the correct word.

Shuffling through the aisles, the vampire made no sound as he conducted his search. His black cloak, though wholly dark, produced no shadow like himself. He finally found out a few days prior that is was because of his Vampire Job.

His eyes shifted down one particular aisle where a tall man dressed in black with hair just as dark, placed books in prospective shelves. Instantly, he made the connection that this could be the guy Cloud mistook him as but he would not be presumptuous. After all, that approach held no manners. Perhaps, though, the man could direct him toward the appropriate section. With that determination, D walked toward the man and pulled out a book to study its title.]

Pardon, but do you know where I might aquire tomes pertaining to the history of this world and Calamity?

I am sorry this took so long. Thank you for your patience.

[bloodypast]

Vincent was aware as he always was, but 'patrons' had been tuned out. Not that he wasn't aware of them, but more that unless they indicated they needed his help, he let them be. The question made him turn, mostly to see who was asking as it wasn't a common way to phrase a common topic.

Crimson-eyes blinked, and Vincent blinked again in faint surprise. If only because it occurred to him this might be the 'doppleganger' phenomenon he'd heard about. Meeting a version of himself perhaps native to Crystallis.

Subtle clues told him otherwise though--the man's eyes were blue, he was maybe an inch taller than the gunslinger. Their faces were similar but the shape was different. A new Hero of Light perhaps?

"If you're one of the new arrivals, a hero of Light, unfortunately the resources here do not tell us anything that we do not already know, or that can not be found in plays and lore common through this world. I can still show you the section if you wish."

Eyebrow raised, polite as he answered the question and inclined his head in greeting at the same time. "In terms of what we do know, I would recommend speaking with Miss Zelda."

[OOC:As far the the Calamity is concerned, the books only have the very basics you can find in the game's premise and various plays, etc. The books cover the history of Crystallis for the past two thousand years, with the events and wars that marked the world.]

Re: I am sorry this took so long. Thank you for your patience.

[sacredancestor]

[D studied the man, noting the similarities and coming to understand why Cloud mistook him at first. He nodded when the man dressed in black answered his question.]

I have already visited Miss Zelda on several occasions. I am a Hero of Light.

[Again, D looked the man up and down. He was a tad taller but barely noticeable, especially if you were a shorter individual. D imagined that after a while, a person world just be considered tall to a shorter person regardless of the actually difference in height.

This man's hair was long and black like good own but his skin was not so pale and his eyes retained their crimson colour. Unlike D's that only flashed crimson when his emotion was more heated.]

I can see why Cloud mistook me for you during the party. I am called D.

[He did not extend his hand however and good voice retained its cold, almost apathetic tone masking any feelings he might have.]

[bloodypast]

[None of the other's mannerisms bothered Vincent at all. On the contrary, the professional tone and way the other carried himself simply made it all too easy for the gunslinger to believe Cloud had mistaken them at a distance. It would be easy to do, studying the other.]

Vincent Valentine. Even if Cloud mistook you, allow me the proper introduction.

[A short nod of his head in greeting.]

Again, I can show you the section but I do not know how much use you'll find it to be.

[Moving away from his shelving, carrying himself straight and tall, all professional, as he started for the section the other was looking for.]

[sacredancestor]

Any means of knowledge is a help in a foreign world.

[As D followed the man who looked very much like him, the vampire took great care to memorize all the other sections of the library they passed. Just in case he might find use for them later. The man before him, Vincent, walked quietly and rigid but not as quiet as D, given his current profession. Still, the vampire could see some similarities that might confused others. Those, however, did not detract how different they truly were.]

[shinra_dog]

It wasn't the same as the library at Shinra, or any sort of specialized collection. But it was worth a shot. Reno didn't have high expectations to find what he was looking for, but on the off-chance it was there, he'd go for it.

And if it wasn't, he'd leave. It wasn't like he loved books for fun. Nerds.

He saw a man shelving and figured that was an indication of an employee if he ever saw one. "Hey -- 'scuse me, I was wonderin' if you had -- " And then when he realized just who he was talking to, he paused. "Vincent?"

[bloodypast]

Vincent was peripherally aware of being approached by a patron, but the voice made him pause as he turned. He had NOT expected to hear it, and so crimson eyes are moving to meet aquamarine-green even as the red-head says his name in surprise. The black suit Vincent wore for his work in the Library wasn't unlike the old Turk Uniforms, save for color scheme and that Vincent himself was different.

"Reno." Cold, professional; certainly not friendly. But not willing to cause a scene or a battle in the library. Even if the gauntlet was missing, and there was no gun presently on Vincent's person. It wasn't as if the Turks and Avalanche hadn't had clashes where they'd left each other alone...

But they were most certainly not on the same side of things, last Vincent had known.

[shinra_dog]

"Uh..." Reno blinked, definitely feeling that cold aura coming off Vincent and going straight through him. He resisted a shiver.

"Yeah." Not that he and Vincent had ever been especially friendly, but Reno got the distinct impression that this was a Vincent from a specifically unfriendly timeline.

Reno swallowed and tried to focus on what he'd came here to do. "Um, y'know if the library has stuff like technical manuals?" He wasn't expecting much, but either way -- if he went for the books or left, he'd get to leave Vincent.

[bloodypast]

Interesting reaction, and Vincent'd probably answer his question in a moment. Turning back to his task of shelving, almost like he was going to ignore the other. "What part of the time-line are you from?" Because that would tell Vincent a lot, depending on what Reno answered.

[shinra_dog]

Okay. So much for avoiding the issue until later. Reno would apparently have to deal with this now.

"After you are, unless I've managed t' do somethin' else t' make you majorly pissed at me," he muttered, feeling awkward. "Deepground just resurfaced."

He wasn't sure that meant anything to Vincent. If it did, it might actually be helpful. Palitutu's notes on Reno's future were only so detailed -- which wasn't very much at all.