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Wish Granted; Resa meets up with Maitho again
Topic Started: Apr 23 2014, 02:23 AM (168 Views)
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Resa: *It wouldn't be good to go calling people on her work phone, it might attract some unwanted attention. So she bought another phone, a personal one, that morning. It took some time to figure out all the settings but eventually she's got something she's more or less happy with for now.


The card Maitho gave her has been tucked in her pocket for a week or more, and she pulls it out now to punch in the numbers. She's in a secluded quiet little spot, but shouldn't be able to be overheard.*


*When the phone starts to ring, Fortune is actually busy getting his wig sorted.  Sweet answers without thinking twice about it.


Sweet Baby: Little Touch of Sass. *takes a puff off his cigarette* Family or business?


Resa: Um... *Damn, which would it be?* I'm looking for Miss Fortune...? It's not business, well, not... the usual kind of business.


Sweet Baby: Just one second, honey. *He puts his hand over the receiver.* Hey, Fortune.  You've got someone on the phone about "not the usual kind of business.  What do you want me to do?


Fortune: *sighs* Can't you handle it, Sweet?  I can't keep leaving this place.


Sweet: *back on the phone* Sorry, had to answer another question for somebody.  Sure, I can talk "not business."  What do you need?


Resa: *sighs* 'Bianca' asked me for a favour. But I don't know how to contact her. *That by itself should be okay* She gave me Fortune's card.


Sweet: Bianca, you say?  Well then... I'll be more help to you than Fortune.  He's been trying to stay clear of the lil' lady since she got "ill" recently. *meaning since the murders have been getting more violent* The name's Sweet Baby, Fortune's secretary more or less.


Resa: *Should she use her real name? Ah screw it, they were Maitho's friends and he didn't say anything about being careful* Mmm. My name's Resa, do you know where I can find her?


Sweet: I do, but it's best if I take you there myself. *After all, he knows the phone isn't tapped- checks it almost bi-weekly- but it's still better to talk in person.  Even if it's a trap, he'll manage.* Want to meet on Division?  Can't miss a leopard jacket and shorts.


Resa: *She's surprised at the offer, but then it is Maitho and she's probably being careful* Sure, any particular spot? *She'll have to find the damn place first*


Sweet: In front of Dodgy is fine, right in the middle of Division on the left side facing North.  You got all that?


Resa: Yeah, I think so. I'll try to wear something distinctive. *Does she even have anything that isn't in black?*


Sweet: That's fine, but remember, it's you looking for me, honey.  Like I said, leopard and short shorts, gold shoes. *pauses* Trust me, you'll know who it is.


Resa: *Chuckles* Alright, I'll keep a lookout. *Though really that sounds like the clothing
of half of the residents*

Sweet: I'll see you there then. *smiles* Take care in getting there. *click*


Resa: *Puts her phone back in her pocket and ducks back inside - in the little place she's staying at, for a different jacket.
.....
...
Navy will have to do.*

*She's at the appointed place fairly quickly, even if she can't fly she still knows the spots*


Sweet: *He's there as soon as he can be- it's a bit of a walk from Sass which stands on its own away from the main parts of Mama Lulu's Avenue.**As promised, he's wearing an almost dingy looking leopard jacket and short shorts, and he's got on a pair of hideous gold strappy sandals.  His chest, too, is on full display in nothing more than a tiny black bikini top.  He's smoking a cigarette, posed provocatively with his back against the front wall of Dodgy.*


Resa: *She arrives just a few minutes later, hands in the pockets of her navy jacket and wind tousling through her red dyed hair that's growing back in silver at the top* *She blinks, looks around*
You do stand out, that's impressive. *She grins - hiding her confusion, is she talking to a man or a woman or.... should she just give up trying to tell the difference around here?*


Sweet: 'Course I do. *smiles* You think I don't know that?  But it's all right, we can still talk without anyone really caring... not that we're talking right here.  This was just a good starting point. *He gets up off the wall and puts his hand on her shoulder.* Name's Sweet Baby.  Nice to meet a girl like you on a street like this.


Resa: *Smiles awkwardly* Well I'm here for Bianca, mostly I keep to myself.


Sweet: Oh, Bianca.  Miss Bianca Summers~ *amused* Oh, now she's a real charmer, that one, and making quite the name for herself.  Always so demure and polite when clients come knocking on the door... but rather bubbly out in public.  So strange for a woman to turn on a dime like that.


Resa: *Really quite uncomfortable now* ...yes, but I said I wasn't... after that sort of business.


Sweet: Oh, I know that. *His hand brushes her hair as he pulls it away from her shoulder.* If you were, you'd just ask around the streets on where to find her.**He's leading her back towards the heart of the district, where Division and Fulton meet.* If memory serves... she's giving a special performance tonight at her place of work.


Resa: *Stiffens a little when he strokes her hair, but puts it out of her mind and follows him - as long as he doesn't lead her into any basements or back alleys, it should be fine.* Special performance? *She's just making conversation*


Sweet: Mmm-hmm, she has quite the voice.  It's only gotten better since she went away for medical reasons. *the Tartarus* You really should stay to listen~


Resa: *Maitho sang? Well she's curious... but somehow she isn't sure if he'd be okay with just anyone listening in, he seemed like a private person the first time they met.* ...if... 'Bianca' would be okay with me staying, I suppose...?


Sweet: If she can sing for them, she can sing for you. *He's not as smooth when it comes to conversation as, say, Fortune, but he means well.* She's a doll, but so shy.


Resa: I'd hate to make her uncomfortable. *Smiles* Work is one thing... when it's someone you know...


Sweet: *winks* Then we just won't tell her until she's done~


Resa: *Seems exasperated* Alright then. But she's scary when she's angry.


Sweet: *outright laughs at that* Honey, believe me.  If you're still walking and breathing?  You're fine.


Resa: Better sense in keeping on her good side~ Should I buy her some flowers? *Just joking now, but he did seem to like plants*


Sweet: Perhaps.  She's been crazy for daisies of all things, or at least, that's what I hear.


Resa: I'll stop off somewhere to get her some later then.


Sweet: Mmm, so how do you know our little lady, if you don't mind me asking?


Resa: Old coworkers? Just bumped into her the other day.


Sweet: Hmm, fair enough.  I'm sure she won't mind you listening to her sing then, since you're already acquainted. *When they arrive at the Cat Corner, it's oddly quiet for a brothel.  Especially one right on one of the busiest corners in the city.**Sweet presses his finger to his lips and leads her up the stairs.*

*When the door is opened, it becomes clear why it's so quiet.  The entryway is full of clients standing there, and at the top of the stairs is Bianca with her hands resting on the railing.  She's dressed in a beaded white flapper gown, and her long hair is done up in a braided crown.**Her voice is loud enough to hear, but there's a soft breahiness to it as well.*


Sweet: *He gently nudges Resa in the direction of the waiting room where it's less crowded.  It's not like she needs to see Bianca sing, after all.*
((http://grooveshark.com/#!/s/Sweeter+For+Me/2vewuF?src=5))


Resa: *When she first catches sight of Maitho - she can't help staring for a moment. The dress, the voice, she wouldn't have guessed if Sweet hadn't pointed him out.*
*She still has a somewhat stunned expression as she leans against the wall, somewhat out of the way.*
..... *Eventually she has to comment, and mouths to Sweet* That's Maitho??


Sweet: *He laughs without a sound and nods.*


Bianca: *She has no idea that anyone's waiting for her downstairs of course, so she finishes the song to a very enthusiastic applause.  She laughs, no doubt blushing, and quietly asks if they would like to hear another.*


Sweet: Do you want to hear her sing more, or should I let her know you're here?


Resa: No I'll... wait, she's got clients. *She doesn't want to draw any attention* I'll catch her eye somehow.


Sweet: Mmm, well, given her tone, she'll be done singing soon at least. Then we can talk to Jasmine, the hostess, and see about catching Bianca between clients.


Resa: If it would be easier to set up as a client, I can do that too. *She should have enough cash* Especially if she could do with some time off, I'll pay. *Grins mischievously*


Sweet: *chuckles* Sure thing.  That'll be easier.


Resa: Tell me how to set that up then. *Might be a pleasant surprise for him too, seeing as he looks really popular. Maybe she should grab some food for him too...*


Sweet: When things settle down, just go up to the front desk and talk to Jasmine.  She'll set you up right away, no questions asked. *pats Resa's shoulder*


Resa: Sure. *Tries to smile but man, she hasn't the slightest clue how to go about this. Like a doctor....? Maybe? When was the last time she even saw a proper doctor? *


Bianca: All right...  We'll have one more little pretty song, and then it's back to work. *She steps away from the railing and starts slow down the stairs, singing softly.*


Sweet: Oh, here she comes. *leans against the wall beside Resa**He's smiling just looking at Bianca; she's come so far from the early days...*
((http://grooveshark.com/#!/s/Once+Upon+A+Dream/6KRHsR?src=5))


Resa: *She realises, weirdly, that she's actually shy about him seeing her here. Why?? It's not like she's doing anything. His voice is very pretty though, and then she recognizes the song.*
..... seriously?? Disney? They like that?


Sweet: ...it's a melody that Bianca can pull off really well. *shrugs* And it's a song almost everyone knows.


Resa: Still, he - it's a surprise.


Sweet: I suppose it could be.  Just don't ask her to try something like Let It Go.  Too loud for her.


Resa: Not familiar with that one. *Still, disney songs??*


Sweet: We'll have to play it for you-


Bianca: *Before Sweet can finish, the song is over, and everyone is starting to go back to their rooms.  She, however, stops her ascent back up the stairs when she hears Sweet Baby's voice.* Oh?  Special visitor?


Sweet: *smiles* Only stopped by to hear your lovely voice, Miss Bianca. *He takes her hand and kisses it... which actually does make the woman blush.* Beautiful as always.


Bianca: *Not being aware that Resa is standing there, she nods in a rather meek manner.* Well thank you...  It's always a pleasure to have you come here, Sweet Baby.


Sweet: *giving Resa one last pat on the shoulder, he smiles* Of course.  See you around~ *And then he leaves, not even explaining that Bianca had another visitor.  After all, what fun would it be if he didn't let the girl fend for herself here~?*


Resa: *Maybe it would be better to make herself known but... she'd hate to cause him trouble, paying for the time she takes up would make more sense...
Only...

She stands there indecisively... no, she'll make an appointment and get them both some food. That.. that'll work.*


Bianca: *After Sweet has left, she goes on back upstairs.  On her way by the front desk, she smiles at the woman sitting there.* Jasmine, if you could give my fiance a call after my night is over, I'd appreciate it.  I was hoping he'd bring Rowan back before noon.


Jasmine: Of course, Bianca.  I'll call them as soon as I can.  Don't worry.


Bianca: Thank you. *And she's gone for the moment.*


Resa: *Fiance? Damn, he didn't mention a fiance... she might really be pushing it with Lotta at this rate. She'd said three people, not four.

After a moment she takes a deep breath and walks up to the counter.*
Um... hi?


Jasmine: Hello. *She greets her a bit sharply, but it's not the intention.* What can I do for you?


Resa: Um.... an appointment? *Dear lord this was harder than she thought* With um, Bianca? *Her first instinct is to assure the lady it isn't what she thinks but... that would just make things messier.

Gods what did she get herself into*
Is she free? I just didn't want to bother her...


Jasmine: You'd be her last for the evening, at four.  Is that all right?


Resa: *Somewhat relieved* That's fine. How much do I owe you? *Maybe she should take him out to dinner... but then he's probably tired*


Jasmine: Standard is one fifty, extended service is two.  That's hundreds, sweetie.


Resa: *Blinks - well at least he's being paid well* *She pulls out her wallet.* How much of this does she get? *Blunt, no point in paying extra if he's not gonna get any of it*


Jasmine: About two thirds.


Resa: *Shrugs and puts down two hundred* Fair enough. *Man, she was spendy lately. Dammit Maitho.* Anything I should- no, no don't answer that.


Resa: I'll... come back later then. Do you need a name?


Jasmine: Last name is fine, not like I won't recognize your face, but the books need to be kept.


Resa: Jones. *That should at least tell him who it is... though it is a very common name*


Jasmine: *jots it down* Good enough.


Resa: *She returns around 3:45, dressed a little nicer and with her hair tied back.
She also has a bag of Indian food, mostly vegetarian with mild spice. Mostly though she's juggling a large bouquet*
Um, hi. *Peeks out from around it, feeling faintly ridiculous but if she's keeping up the act of being a client... this is what you were supposed to do right?*


Jasmine: *She just glances up from her paperwork before looking back down at it again.* She'll be right down.  Just wait here for her. *She pulls a little string that has a bell in Bianca's working room.**They're too small to bother with runners.*


Resa: Alright. *Sits herself down on the couch, trying not to fidget*


Bianca: *She finally comes down the stairs.  She's not quite as fantastically dressed as earlier that night, but her floral robe is still very much in the tastes of the 1920's.  Her braids have come undone too, now nothing more than loose ringlets.  Not that she minds.* Hello there. *She smiles.* It's a pleasure to have you here.


Resa: *She stands up when she comes down the stairs and grins* Hello Mai- Bianca.


Bianca: *She blinks, recognizing the voice, but she holds character.  She is, after all, a polite lady of impolite business.* Please... do come on up.  I've been waiting for you...~


Resa: *She nods, following him at a discreet distance - this feels so wrong. Last time she tries this.*


Bianca: *Maitho was always delicate in his mannerisms, but she's even more so.  Every step is light, and her fingers glide up the railing rather than hold it.**When she leads her "client" into her room, she sits on the bed without even making a single noise despite the age of the bedframe.* So how are you...

Maitho: Resa?


Resa: *The voice switch throws her a little, but she doesn't move away from the door - she's going to wait for him to invite her properly* Doing fine. Don't panic, I just thought this would be easier for you.


Maitho: Who said anything about panicking?  And is that food and... flowers?


Resa: Yup. *She grins, offering him the bouquet* Indian, mostly veggies but there's some meat too.


Maitho: That's more than fine. *He takes the flowers and holds them close to his chest.* You could've, you know, said you were coming.  Or something.  No need to make an appointment... *smiles* unless that's really what you had planned, of course.


Resa: *Coughs* You know me better than that... I just thought you could use some time off.


Maitho: I'm fine, really. *He sets the flowers down beside him on the bed.* It's been an easy night for me already.


Resa: That's good. Anyway, you want some food? And I can tell you what I've done, see if it works.


Maitho: Sounds good, both do. *He keeps his hands open for the food as well.* Usually Haydn brings me dinner, but he's later than usual.


Resa: Well there's dahl, rice, butter chicken, some kinda spinach and cheese... what do you fancy?


Maitho: Dahl and rice is fine to start with, thank you.


Resa: *Spoons some into a plastic bowl and hands him that with a fork.* *She keeps butter chicken and rice for herself* So I talked with my boss - without revealing any names... it took some convincing but she's okay with me calling in a favour. *Takes a bite* Had to twist her arm though


Maitho: If it was going to be trouble for you at all, you didn't have to.


Resa: *Shakes her head, swallowing hard* Nope, Lotta's just stubborn and secretive. She owes me three magic wishes, I didn't mind using one for you. *Laughs to herself*


Maitho: If it was Fortune, it wouldn't be wishes, so you still have my apologies.


Resa: What would it be for Fortune?


Maitho: For Fortune, it would be a favor that "costs" just as much.  Want to hide in plain sight?  He'll set you up, but you have to work to maintain it.  The money is mine, but I can't quit the job.  At least not the industry.


Resa: *She frowns* Remind me not to ask her for any favours then. *Takes another bite* Do you want me to go ahead with setting up your disappearance plan or should I leave it?


Maitho: ...I'll have to talk to Haydn and Rowan.  My connections with the others are getting fewer and fewer, and I have to wonder why I'm with them at all.


Resa: *frowns* What about your fiance? I told Lotta there were three people, not four...


Maitho: ..... *starts to laugh* Oh this? *He holds up a rather gaudy ring.* Haydn gave it to me.  I suppose he felt we needed to take our "relationship" to the next level.


Resa: *Blinks* So he's your brother... and your fiance? *Ew.*


Maitho: We aren't related at all, and we have no romantic feelings between us.  It's just a game we play, Resa. *thinks for a moment* The only reason we came up with the lie at all was to explain why we share the same bed.  We both simply had enough of sleeping alone, after prison.


Resa: *Listens, and nods* I get that. *It was nice having Grey to snuggle up with, even though he was too small to come under the covers* So just Haydn... and Rowan?


Maitho: Yes.  Me, my brother, and my son.  That's all I would need to take with me.


Resa: Any place you want to go?


Maitho: ...I think I would like to go to France one day.  My father's family came from there although we're estranged from them here in Arcadia.  I hear the flowers in Provence are beautiful...


Resa: *Smirks* France? I'll... well that might take all three wishes. *She laughs* I'll talk to Lotta.


Maitho: *shakes his head* No need.  Once you get us out of here, we can make our own way.  Rowan can pass as a Normal easily enough... and as for Haydn, we can easily say he simply has physical abnormalities.  He has a barcode from the Tartarus after all.


Resa: You'll need a boat though. *Tears some naan with her fingers*


Maitho: *He's been eating in small bites throughout the conversation.* I suppose I will, but I can still figure that out.


Resa: *Smiles* You asked for my help, I can try and get you a boat.


Maitho: Yes, but it might cost you another wish, and those are rare in Arcadia, even among Users.  We can take care of our own when we get past the walls.


Resa: Alright. *She can't help feeling worried* But I'll give you my number at least. The one I don't use for work... if you need anything.


Maitho: Fair enough.


Resa: *She pulls out her phone to get the number and pauses* ... can you remember it, or should I write it down for someone to read...? *This was awkward*


Maitho: I can remember it.
*He smiles again, this one being more crafty than the blank ones he often gives* I remember a lot more than people ever realize.


Resa: *She reads him the number before putting the phone away* Yes, Sweet Baby mentioned something about my being lucky about still walking.


Maitho: *chuckles* If I didn't like you, it's true that I could do awful things, but I haven't.  Because I don't think there's a reason to, I never did.


Resa: *Shakes her head* Don't remind me - I remember some of those 'awful things' very well. *Finishes her meal.* Just give me a call if something changes, or if you need anything else. *She tilts her head* I almost envy you.


Maitho: And why's that?


Resa: Just getting away from it all. *shrugs* Though I hear it's worse for Users outside, so I'm probably better off here.


Maitho: And Normals are better kept in the Slums, and the Wisemen are always thinking for the benefit of this fair city.  It might be true that it's worse for Users on the Outside, but it could also be another lie.


Resa: Maybe. But if I really wanted to leave, I'd have tried a long time ago. *She'd thought about it, just flying up so high they'd have trouble seeing her, just long enough to get over the walls.... with an oxygen tank it would be easy...*
But I don't, so I need to stay here.


Maitho: ...well, we might stay here as well.  It depends on the other two.  I would be happy with either choice, but I wanted to know if there was a door that we could even open.


Resa: *She nods* It probably is better for you to leave, but maybe not for the other two.


Maitho: ...like I said, Rowan can pass for a Normal at least. *taps his own temple* Everything of his is in his mind.


Resa: Mmm, still. *She shrugs* It's up to you, just tell me when to move.


Maitho: I will.
Resa | Mai | Dorian | Anthea

The moment comes when a character does or says something you hadn't thought about. At that moment he's alive and you leave it to him. - Graham Greene.
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