Kore Wa Resutoran Desu ka?! (Is this a restaurant?!) IC

RedArmyShogun

Runs with Axes
Original poster
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Posting Speed
  1. One post per day
  2. Multiple posts per week
  3. 1-3 posts per week
  4. One post per week
Online Availability
Varies, but often.
Writing Levels
  1. Adept
  2. Advanced
Preferred Character Gender
  1. Male
  2. Primarily Prefer Female
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Yoriko & Hibari
Location: Painted Shark Lobby and Boss's Office
Interactions: Everyone​

Sitting behind her desk, Yoriko fiddles away with some files before her, job applications or old employee work files. It was odd running this all as a front and in truth the paperwork did not amuse her. With the new applications the green haired woman smiles, separating the pile in two, then promptly throwing one half into the trash.

"I don't want unlucky people working here." She says to herself as she flips through the remaining files and the older documents. Some of the more notable ones she had information dug up on in advance. Six new people and four old. This would be a very interesting year. Though technically two of those new ones didn't count as she had automatically placed them. They were her siblings after all.


"Well lets see here.." First was her monotonous younger sister and twin brother. Much like oil and water she never understood how the two got along so well when they were so much unlike one another. Hibari had grown more distant in the wake of the incident. Lacking direction in life and with her head to the sky, much like the skylark she was named for. This job was meant to aid her in finding direction and maybe learning to be more open, or at least not so aloof. Kenza on the otherhand was fully relieved with the situation and take over of Yoriko upon the family business. He was also given to stirring up trouble or bidding on it. It was a good idea to get him away from the Yakuza as much as possible, something he himself seemed to want. Hopefully the two wouldn't attempt their games of mimicry to take shifts and breaks as they seen fit.

Now came the actual applicants.

First up was Kagome Himura, this one did seem to have some luck, she didn't end up in the trash. From what scattered info she had, this one was a delinquent and had ran up some gambling debts. If she were lucky working here would contribute to removing that.. Well maybe not so much lucky as playing her cards right. Allergy problems, looks nice enough..

All she could do was throw her in a wait staff uniform and see how well she did. Either way she may prove useful or willing to take up another line of work with Yoriko's own main objective.

Next was and older sheet. Shinobu. He reminded her of a Yuki-onna, like a pale faced princess. Such a thing gave rise to significant problems for the boy. But that was then, this was now. He was one of the few cooks she had and was good at what he did. No matter how many forced smiles he would give. He was here before she was and he would likely be here when she was gone. Giving him a few more hours couldn't hurt.

Reaching for the next sheet, this was a new one and boy was he lucky or cursed. Kazuma Kenichi, he was better stock than his parents. They racked up a debt and fled the country, if they ever returned she suspected they would be found 40 years later in a building foundation. One of the clans under her own Nishikawa had worked this deal out... And to think she almost threw him in the trash. For a debt ridden four eyes he might just be alright.

Next was another "old" sheet, good ole Katashi. Though he wasn't old in the least. His body had taken much in the way of wear and tear and he was her second cook. There was also the matter of debt and the issue around his sister. She couldn't fault him for what he had done. She had done worse for her own family and would continue to do such if the need arises. He also had something of a quest. He had not been working here for long and she had yet to gain a measure of him. It was amusing in a manner to see what he would do when those he felt he could blame his problems on were right before him.

Either way he could follow directions.

Picking up the next sheet, she just casually discards it, for this one was problematic. Not that he or she was a problem in and of itself but the existence alone was a problem. She was able to gather scant information on Enichi Mori. Their English was not nearly as good as they thought and the anomality they had created around themself would only invite more questions. Enichi also had false work papers. It would not be the first or the last time the Yakuza hired a Gaijin. And they were good at what they did, which was repair and maintenance, she had been thinking of throwing general custodial jobs off on him as well. Or her. Though one thing that was curious were the rumors she came across in regards to the inability to use computers, considering they were in the virtual scene this was an oddity. Kenza could run a betting pool with the other debt traps on that score.

A man or woman of many mysteries, and that mystery was one she didn't care to solve.



With a grunt she picks up the next sheet, it was one she wished she had thrown in the trash. But didn't have much say in actually hiring them. Sakurako Oba. A daughter of the Oba family. She was much too well armed to the teeth and hopefully not stupid enough to bring them to work with her. At least nothing so obvious. She didn't need more police attention than they already had. There was a difference in overlooking oddities and overlooking a warzone. And this one was particularly the later. Both of them had made their marks in the world and those marks were somewhat at odds from a point of view. As to why she was here? Grandfather had insisted that Yoriko keep at least one bodyguard on her, making use of the Oba to do this, she had been requested by the old man. And as it stood for now, Yoriko was not yet the head, she planned to make it clear where the two of them stood.

Minus her hat being something to work around it would be best to keep her on the floor, waitress would do.

Wiping her hands of that paper, next was yet another "old" face, Kotone Suzuki.

Kotone was another lucky one, he had made the unwise choice of lying to her. To which she waged his life against his claims. Would she have really killed him for that? Smiling at that, some questions were better left unanswered, he would have been roughed up in the least. But he was quick with jokes and distractions and kept to his claim. Yoriko was curious why he chose to work here. Someone like him could make it big in this kind of work. Likely some sort of agenda known only to him. At least he wasn't a debt mule. From what digging around she could find he seemed to have a medically troubled past.

And then, finally at long last, there was one.

Katsuro Tsuchiya. That one seemed in need of money, which everything around and in Tokyo was expensive. He was a martial arts trained and fighter from what she seen, though not a terribly bad or good one. His winrates were inconsistent. While in the new pile he had been working there for a little while. And just as before he would be retained into the wait staff. Reviewing the the sheets once more, there was a surprising lack of college students and high schoolers. Or they all had ended up in the trash.

Likely for the better, this place was shaping up into a land of giants and depression. Not that she cared, this wasn't even her primary work and so long as money was made and she had her sweets that was more than enough.

With that in mind she dials the cell contact numbers of each on sending a simple message. "Introductions and new shift assignment set for March 16th, show up before 10:00 for review and introduction to one another. Don't show up or show up late? Well, don't show up at all."


~~The Following Morning~~
For her part a slightly disappointed Hibari waits inside for the rest, her brother was in the store room and her big sister for all her insistence wasn't even here yet. Typical of her to demand of others in a way. Little Hibari could do about it however and not that it ultimately mattered much. With that mindset she wears black pants and a white button up shirt. A skirt was also avaiable to the females that worked here if they chose it with long socks and matching black shoes. All in all it gave the impression of a normal place of work and even had a proper locker room to store things and normal clothing.

"...I wonder who will be next." She says in a flat tone, watching the door.
 
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Location: ???
Interactions: ???​

In the early hours of the morning, a teenage boy with time and little else decides to venture out and answer an anonymous text. Feeling rather apprehensive about the idea of meeting a complete stranger, he reassures himself that the police are but a dial away. Aimlessly roaming in a nearby park to kill his anxiety until his mysterious netpal appears. Scrolling through past messages from the weeks they'd been talking and even flirting, renews his excitement and hope it won't turn out to just be a sad prank. Stopping to get his bearing before heading to the meeting place, a group of shadowy figures in the distance catches his eye.

Darting about erratically and closing distance for a moment to grapple and tear apart. From the shouts and obscenities being thrown around It's somewhat obvious to anyone from afar to be a fight. A rather unfair one at that, the teenager can notice as they grow closer to him. Three on one, which are odds which usually end with the one on the ground and in the hospital the next day. Looking around briefly for anyone else who sees the brawl unfolding, the boy realizes he's the only one around who could intervene.

Tapping in the numbers 110, they appear on his phone display before he hesitates. Looking up again and wondering if he should even bother, given it isn't really his problem. As if to read his mind or perhaps to tempt fate. The group suddenly turns and rushes toward him. Bewildered at the turn of events he's frozen still for a few seconds until it dawns on him they're headed right for him. Hitting the dial button in a panic, the dial tone echo's as his heart pounds against the inside of his chest.

The one enters into better view, sporting a steel bat and a set of dogtags. Ignoring him for the most part, he simply shouts in passing.

"The hell yah doing out kid!? Get the hell outta here!"

Before he can form a coherent answer, the line picks up with a female officer. Asking him what the nature of criminal activity he's called to report. Again he doesn't have much chance to answer as the phone is ripped from his hand and shattered on the ground. With a strong shove, his view spins, and he's suddenly on the ground. Watching as the gaggle of thugs sprint off after the bat wielding man.


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Location: Painted Shark Lobby
Interactions: Hibari​

Takenaka Katashi

With a long drawn out yawn, Katashi leans to one side as he makes his way toward The Painted Shark. The bat on his shoulder causing his balance to be a bit off center wasn't the only cause for the noticeable drag in his step. If bloodshot eyes weren't an indicator enough, one could tell otherwise he had probably had a long night. Attempts to simply shake the grogginess off proved mostly useless. As he stops and decides to stretch it out against a nearby wall. He continues feeling a bit more refreshed, but all the same fatigued. It isn't long before he turns into a back alley and trails on. Reaching into his outer coat pocket he pulls out a black can. Coffee.

Chugging the contents he tosses it into a nearby garbage bag. A few blocks later, he stops outside a somewhat awkward and obscured door. The typically ignored backdoor to the Painted Shark was his preferred entry. From here he could head straight into the changing room and start preparing the kitchen. It was convenient. What wasn't however was when he tried the door and found it to be locked. It was hit or miss whether or not the thing would be unlocked. Usually depending on whether or not someone had to take out trash in the mornings. Looking around it was clear the trash had run the day before, so he was out of luck.

Taking the long way back round, he found himself on the main street and subject to wary stares or side glances. Paying it no mind, he instead catches his reflection in the mirrored restaurant front. Straightening a bit, he waves at those inside before passing on through the front door with a jingle.

"Morning, Hibari."

Taking a guess at which sibling it was by the eyes, Katashi was accustom to being corrected on the spot if he got it wrong. At the start he had taken to simply calling them both names to cover his bases. But, as time went on and their complaints mounted he eventually gave up trying. It was a game to them after all. Looking around now at the empty restaurant it seemed he was the first to arrive. At least of those who were "expendable".

"First here, huh? I'll go get changed."

Idly checking the clock on the wall, the time read 0938.

@RedArmyShogun
 
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Tsuchiya Katsuro

Location: Ikebukuro - Gym
Date: Unknown

Interactions:



Katsuro's phone went off in the middle of a practice session. He was already starting to run dangerously low on funds, his instructor job hardly paying enough for him to pay the bills. Turns out that life was expensive. And he was waiting on a reply to his job applications. Of which he'd filed too many to count. Having no easily-disclosable education or experience really wasn't good for job-seeking.

He unwrapped his hands, heading over to his bag to check the message. It looked like one of the employers was interested, although it seemed he was deemed less-than-essential. To be expected with what little experience he had.

He put the phone back into the bag, then rewrapped his hands and went back to practice. He was almost done anyways, so he might as well finish. After another series of exercises, he packed his bag back up, and started back to his apartment. He'd have a busy day, come 16th.


Location: Ikebukuro -> Painted Shark - Lobby
Date: March 16, 20XX

Interactions: Katashi, Hibari



On route to the Painted Shark, Katsuro took in the view of the city. This time of day, the city wasn't quite the traffic hell it could be, and he was making surprisingly good time. The gangs weren't out in force, so he didn't even need to worry about people trying to mug him. One street turned into the next, and he found himself quickly on the street to the Painted Shark. But something was off. Why was that guy carrying around a metal bat? He seemed to be going into a building, but Katsuro was too far away to tell for sure which one.

As he continued on, his bad feeling got worse and worse. By the time he reached his destination, he was absolutely sure of it. The man had stepped into the same destination as he had just arrived. The Painted Shark. A quick glance inside revealed that nothing seemed terribly wrong, and the man was chatting with someone inside, although... it wasn't normal to carry a metal bat into a restaurant. Was it?

Katsuro stepped in, waving to the current inhabitants. "'Morning. Am I in the right place?"

The guy with the metal bat seemed to be heading into the back. So he was staff? Was there something wrong with this place? Actually, that could explain why he got the spot so easily. A glance around revealed a clock on one wall. The clock read 9:41.
 
Kagome Himura
Mentions: Katsuro
Interacting: Hibari | @RedArmyShogun








She had one earphone in, the other open to her surroundings while Kagome eyed the GPS to take her to The Painted Shark. She'd only been there once, and that was to fill out her application. Kagome didn't exactly see herself as the "customer service" type, but given the amount of debt she racked up and the fact that her bills weren't going to pay themselves, she couldn't be picky.

Well... The customers couldn't be that bad, right? Just some families here and there or some noisy teenagers looking for a quick bite to grab. She'd just have to play nice for a couple of hours and get paid. Shouldn't be too bad, and the experience would be good for her.

Kagome had dressed in proper attire, or at least in something that didn't fit like a potato sack on her torso, and well fitting pants since she knew she'd have to change at the restaurant. She'd combed out her hand so it didn't look too shaggy, her punky accessories were left at home, and the belongings she needed were in a small carry on backpack. She hopped on the train about an hour and a half before she was scheduled to arrive so she could take her time (and plan ahead for any delays). She wasn't too far off it seemed; Kagome would just have to keep leaving at 8:30. Best case scenario, she could carpool with someone else from the same city.

She arrived around the same time as a guy a good head taller and twice as wide stature-wise. Kagome followed him through the door, most likely not being seen at first since the guy completely shielded her smaller stature.

'Hot.' Had been her thought about him.

However, her thoughts were quickly interrupted when she noticed a man with a bat. She raised an eyebrow at this, but decided it wasn't worth questioning. She didn't want to get fired for being nosy.

"Ready to work." She reported.

By the looks of things, she was early.





----------------------​


Kotone Suzuki
Mentions:
Interacting: Katsuro | @kookyboy9








Any sane person would have realized that The Painted Shark had something shady going on in the background and left when the opportunity presented itself. Kotone knew this. He knew there was something about this place that was weird, but that's what made working for the owner fun. Sure, he could have "better opportunities" and "chances for growth," but that was boring. Kotone was still young, and he wanted to use these years that his body fought for to see something more... entertaining. A big shot kitchen wasn't fun. It was a bunch of yelling and listening to some grumpy old man who trained in France or something. Who wanted to be part of that when The Painted Shark had more personality?

He could worry about his future later, the "now" was more important.

He'd dressed in his usual clothing with a black face mask to protect him from anything that could attack his immune system. The muscles within his legs strained from the exercise that he should be accustomed to at his age. Having been bedridden since he was young, his legs just weren't as strong as they should be, but he'd persevered. He'd done relatively well walking-wise the past few months working in the kitchen (ignoring the one or two accidents that happened).

Everything would be fiiiiiine.

Kotone checked his watch to see that the clock was approaching 9:45 when he walked through the door. He smiled at Hibari. "Good morning." His attention and smile turned to Katsuro and Kagome. "New employees? Good morning and welcome."

 
Kazuma let out a huff as he reached for a small, somewhat ragged backpack, procuring a bottle of water from it to drink from. Unscrewing the cap and bringing the opening up to his mouth, he looked out at the busy lot he was in. The sound of bustling machinery and metal was prevalent through the area as people in bright vests and hard hats spread across the area and through the skeleton of a building in the middle of it all. This was one of the boy's many odd jobs, usually reserved for when he was between work. The labor was strenuous and it didn't pay all that much, but he knew the head contractor and so it was work he could do on and off or at the drop of a hat. They always needed more hands and--Well, he was desperate for whatever money he could get.

Kazuma was still applying to various places, though none had taken him up yet. He was entering into university, and while his grades gave him some financial aid, he still needed an income for everything else he required to live day to day even if it were to cover all schooling expenses--Which it didn't.

At this point, all he could do was keep applying and wait. There was no worth in worry and stress. He knew his resume was well-crafted, so there would definitely be a place for him somewhere.

No sooner than he thought that, a buzz from inside the bag caught his attention. He screwed the cap back onto the water bottle and set it down before he reached inside the backpack to pull out his old flip phone. Using his thumb to pop the top up, Kazuma put the device to one ear while his other hand covered his other ear to dampen the background noise.

"Hel-"

"Introductions and new shift assignment set for March 16th, show up before 10:00 for review and introduction to one another. Don't show up or show up late? Well, don't show up at all."

"...Eh?"

The phone clicked after that, leaving Kazuma to make sense of the message. Shift assignment. Did that mean a job? What job? Where? Who leaves a message like that?!

"Kazuma! Break's over. Get a move on!"

Fumbling with the phone, the boy hurriedly stuffed it back in his bag. He'd sort it out later. He could always call them back afterwards, anyway.

"Sorry! Coming!"

~~~~

"Painted Shark, huh..."

Arriving in front of the designated building, Kazuma eyed the sign. It was definitely the place, and there were seemingly people already inside. It was relatively new, if he recalled. So likely most everyone was in the same boat as him.

"Has anything started yet? I know it's still a bit early," He inquired generally as he entered. It was almost ten till.

Now inside, he could more clearly identify the individuals that had arrived before him. There were a couple girls, one slim with green hair and another with fiery red hair. The former was shorter than him and quite petite, though cute. She looked like a teen. It'd be nice not being the youngest person on staff. As for the other girl; well, she was also shorter but definitely not "petite". Certain accentuations in her form gave her a slightly older appearance, though she still seemed quite young; early twenties at most.

The rest were men. One of them approached the group of newcomers and welcomed them. He seemed nice and didn't appear all that much older than himself. The others were a bit more--intimidating. One of the men looked to be in his mid twenties. He was quite a bit taller than Kazuma and had a scary look in his eyes, but even still, he wasn't carrying around a bat. Why was the third guy carrying a bat...?
 




Enichi Mori

Location: Ikebukuro, Apartment Complex
Interactions: None

"I'm so very sorry!" Enichi took a deep bow at the man at their doorstep, living in an apartment came with these kinds of problems. "I forgot about the flash freeze coolant, I didn't think it would freeze all the way through!" They fumbled through multiple pockets one by one until a few scrunched-up pieces of papers were found, amongst them was a 10,000 yen bill and a few coins. "This is all I have right now, I spent more than a hundred thousand on my thermal imaging camera last week, but I got a job again."

Beep-

A flat disk-shaped object resembling a roomba, but with its covering torn off and a mess of audrinos and an LED screen rolled up to the doorway. On it displayed the numbers 9:45, and the text "WARNING" rolled by like a retro video game. "Ah-ha, see? That's my reminder to go to my job." Enichi stuck a few more coins and smaller bills into their neighbour's hand, in it was some recipes with unfamiliar English symbols and characters. "You can probably find someone to fix it, and uh, try not to smell it and maybe open a window!" The words trailed off as the source of the dialogue hopped down the staircase and out of the resident's front yard.

The man just sighed, he had lived here for long enough to know that some knots can only be untied by the one who tied them.


Location: The Painted Shark Lobby
Interactions: Kazuma (@EmperorsChosen )

"Yoriko-basan---, I mean, Yoriko-nee---" Enichi honestly wasn't sure why they had to show up, they were a freelancer, one of those on-call basis ones, there wasn't much reason for them to mingle with the other shift-based workers. Though the amount of time they hang around The Painted Shark was quite long compared to any other job location, probably because the place gets inexplicably badly damaged overnight sometimes. Enichi cracked a somewhat sly smile as they thought about the traces they've picked up through the strange damages, oh well, everyone has their secrets.

They threw opened the door, making a clattery noise as their toolbag squeezed through the doorframe. A few people can be seen, including Yoriko's sister. They all looked a bit aloof, the employees Enichi has met in the past were a bit like that too, they concluded that working in the service industry probably does that to you. "Good morning!" A chipper greeting came with the dull sound of an impact, Enichi looked over and realized they've slammed the opening door into one of the newer arrivals. It was a high-school or college-aged looking boy with glasses, looks like a nerd.

"Oh, I'm so, so sorry about that, please don't cry!" Enichi quickly pulled out their own glasses and stuck them on, then proceed to take a small bow while clasping their hands in front of them. Some random video on Niconico that showed people with glasses are more forgiving towards other people with glasses. Psychology seemed pretty ephemeral to Enichi, but ephemeral is better than nothing.
 
Sakurako Oba
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Oba estate, early morning

The loud crack of multiple gunshots rang out in the backyard of the Oba estate.

BRRANG BRAANG BRANNG!

Three shots was all she fired. Staring down the ironsights. After she shot, she paused one moment, then elegantly relaxed and spun her custom Beretta on her shooter finger.

The tall woman walked forward with a certain dignified, confident grace, inspecting the target. She cocked her head. Then poked the smoking hole left right in the head. She then glanced around the target. No other visible holes. A frown furrowed her lips. "Missed? Me?..." It was so absurd a thought, that it actually made her angry. Then it struck her.

Oh, wait. Nope. All three shots went through the same hole. That was enough to put a smile on her lips.

She was busy fiddling with the magazine on her pistol when she heard a nearby alarm go off. Her eyes drawn over to the phone buzzing loudly.

The tall woman sighed.

Work.

First day of work.

"Well, can't be late on the first day, now can we?"

She glanced at the gun in her hand, then thought it over, and sighed again.

~~~

Painted Shark
Mentions:
Katsuro @kookyboy9 Katashi @Astros
Interacting: Hibari @RedArmyShogun Kagome @Jessica

Sakurako, much like Katashi, usually slyly slipped into the Painted Shark through the back, employee entrance. However, today was 'special', or whatever. So she used the front entrance. Peeking at the time on her phone, it read 9:59. She snorted with a feeling of self-satisfaction. "Perfect. Like usual," the tall woman purred. She put her phone in the pocket of her tight pants, whipped her long ponytail stylishly, pulled down the tip of her hat, and threw open the door, stepping right inside.

The tall woman peeked up from just under the brim of her hat. Her sharp golden gaze pierced the others around, scoping out the place. There were a couple men, some boys. Hibari -who she knew due to personal reasons. And a redhead. Her lips curved into a side smirk, and she tugged down the brim of her hat once more. "Heh?" She would've thought this place would be stocked with a bunch of adorable girls. Wasn't that how restaurants like this pulled in customers? Not by good food, but by the eye candy? But other than the weird Hibari, it was just her and the redhead. And one probably didn't count Sakurako - she herself didn't. The redhead was cute, at least. How interesting.

She confidently strolled forward, atop stylish black boots with a chunky three inch heel, adding even more to the woman's imposing height; ignoring the others as she walked inside. Only to give a side glance at the redhead that was quite noticeable. "Hey, shorty~" she suavely mused to Kagome. Before she stepped near Hibari, said cordially, in a slightly deep, but silky-smooth voice, "Hello, Hibari-chan," and then leaned cooly against the wall, with one leg comfortably crossed over the other. Her cap low on her face, obscuring it in shadow.

Only one of them matched her. A man. He was basically her height. Maybe a bit taller, though it was hard to tell with a glance and considering her current footwear. Men were really the only ones who ever outmatched her height. And even then it was rare of Asian men. Case and point, the males around her now. Anyway, for the one man who matched her - she'd have to keep an eye on him. Luckily, she was good at doing that discreetly.

There was a boy with a bat. That brought her some amusement. He was prepared. Good. That was good. Always good to be prepared for things. She wondered if he would have a similar position to hers. Still, even if she was impressed. It gave away his thuggish nature. He'd have to be another she watched out for.
 
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Hibari
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Location: Painted Shark Lobby
Interactions: @Astros @Thaleko @Jessica @kookyboy9

As more and more people started to pile in, Hibari just takes a stand next to the counter, nodding and addressing each in turn over the next few minutes. Katashi was first after herself. "Yes.. Yorik--Boss was rather insistent though I doubt she'll be on time."

Next was a man she never seen before, he was unusually large, though in height and muscle rather than fat, Hibari tenses briefly as a had darts towards her left pants pocket, but stops there. He wasn't smashing anything up just yet, maybe he was a new employee?

"Yes. This is the Painted Shark." Pointing behind her with her right hand she speaks while gesturing to a door marked employees only. "Back there is the hall to the kitchen, boss's office and our break room and changing rooms. Right-side is male, left-side is female.. We are supposed to get uniforms in for newer workers today sometime if none of the on hand sizes fit you, just claim a locker that isn't locked." She was rather sure they wouldn't have anything on hand that would work for him, but it was possible..

Immediately behind him was a redhead commenting she was ready for work, with her index still pointing where to go, she hope that would be enough, that her previous words were heard. "Female lockers on the left side, through the service door, past the kitchen."

More and more people then arrived, though only one spoke to her this time. Sakurako, the Oba girl. Why in the world did she wear heels with her already great height? She was a giant already. They equally thought of the other as being weird, though neither seen fit to voice this fact to the other. This was going to be an interesting year.. Though for Hibari and likely a few others here this was just a means to make money.


Yoriko
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Location: Painted Shark Lobby
Interactions: Everyone

Soon to arrive after them all was a woman in mixture of suit and plaid with a parasol in her hands, smiling at the rest she tilts her head to the side and pauses a bit, not bringing attention to herself just yet. Taking stock of those around her, there was one four eyes, two giants, an even split almost in boys and girls, speaking of, here was the almost.

Looking over at Enichi she wondered why in the hell they were here. Well her message was terse and it was a massed send out, plus the owner had requested she got him or her to sign a contract... That would count as official employment, which was not something she was so ready to provide, though it was good Enichi was here. A few faces new and old were around but otherwise there were no major surprises.

Speaking up at that she finally makes her presence known, by forcing her way to the counter, where she laid out a few papers with the standard employment information, photos of each and their roles here. Or at least those who were actually new. Everyone else knew what they were about and here for.

"Oi! Listen up! If you are new here, find your face in the sheets, if you are sorta new here, well I can't help you much if you still haven't learned." Pushing her way front and center, the woman had left a presence even with many here being taller than her, when she herself was a little taller than average.

"I'm the Boss. Four eyes in a suit might say otherwise, but I run his ass too. Don't fuck up and we'll get along and you get paid. Fuck up? Well lets just say you'll have an interesting time." Letting that sink in she decides to let them in on the rest of what they could expect, or her own philosophy towards it all.

"Firstly this isn't my main job, isn't for a lot of you. Normally you all won't be in here like this least you request it, or if you are rather rare sort like the cooks.

On paper this is a family restaurant... Hell it actually is, though I suspect some of you sasquatches will have an admirer or two, more so the pretty boys. Hell even the four eyes there might make a housewife or two blush.. And that better be all you do. I don't need anything else here."


It was then she motioned her head towards the large diner style windows, a man or woman of actual average height was out there, looking conspicuously unsuspicious, with a large trench coat a news paper and a paperboy hat. "Our rival there is something else you'll need to watch out for. If you want a close example of the competition, stick around after closing, might even have something in it for yah. Though that sack of shit is rather minor on the list."

Seeing that they had been found out, the figures head was tilted ever so slightly, as if to record the heights and faces of the rest before the sub 5'4" figure ran away to a sushi place that was across the street and seemed to be engaged in some inductions just like they were. With that she pauses briefly to regain the attention of the rest.

"Next up on the list. If a customer gives you major shit then come get me, at times smart asses waltz in here because of some rumors or some of my boys might get unrulily. The customer is a fucking idiot, I'll set them straight. But yeah, Water under the bridge, bodies in the water, you get the idea. Some of you I'll want to speak to later, but for now I need to do the actual shit to run this place and getting to why you all are here."

Stating the following for the benefit of the new people over the old she continues, though it may serve as a refresher for the older employees as well. "Typically we have three or four work lines here, all of you right now will be with another possible and one missing person part of two of those lines, there is also another manager aside from me, but you likely won't be meeting them ever... Our hours range from 1100 to 2000. Anyone is still in here at closing, throw them out. I don't do over time so clean your shit up during the closing ours or gripe to the owner. We serve a mix of European and Japanese family style dishes and sweets here, anyone asks for something else? Too bad. Learn the menu.

Shit, I got side tracked."
She says before continuing once more; "Anyways you all are here to help take stock and get the place ready for opening tomorrow. During Japanese Winter break we'll work for a few days and take a week off like the rest, lets the building get renovations and the like. Once that lets up we draw straws to see which work staff has to restock and get everything ready for opening. So yeah, your first day of work is taking stock, actual opening is tomorrow, get to know one another, learn who you hate, walk out the door and don't come back, come visit me in the office with questions.. So yeah, see yah, keep up the good work and all that, I need to sign for all this.."

What all this shit was, well that was vague but one could reasonably assume it was the supplies a nervous looking delivery man hanging around the back of the shop seemed to confirm this and he likely wasn't the only one, as to what went where or how, well that she would address, plus what exactly the one not employee was here for.

"Ah yeah, Cooks or Hibari will tell you where everything goes, we'll get smaller deliveries all the time, but this tends to be our major items and staple stocking time. Rice, grains, meat, things that can be set up for a long time or thrown into the freezer, so you know most things that aren't needed to be fresh. As to the Human Mystery, that's Enichi. Basically the handyman, unless I'm pissed with them, don't get in the way or help em out. Go take a look around and make sure nothing has been busted up or can be fixed up. Help with the stocking if you want some spare cash, or just fuck off away. Ah yeah and unless cops come in here or people that I vouch for show up, Enichi there is the only one besides workers that get a discount. Well maybe the Gramps and Grannies out there too.. well to what the state says at least."

And with that they leave as quickly as she came, leaving Hibari holding the bag, though she did not look uncomfortable at least. Any questions of her, such as what this after hours work was, why this was the painter shark, or a multitude of others, would need to be made in person and the employee sheets explained just what they would be doing.

Though at least the Painted shark made sense if one were to look at the back wall of the counter, a massive hammerhead shark was there, covered in pictures, hand signatures and what seemed to be blood stains was readably visible.
 
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Shortly after Kazuma had entered, the jingle of a bell signified another entry into the building. The door struck him lightly, forcing him to step forward as he turned around to eye the newcomer. Adjusting his glasses that were knocked forward a bit, it was a strange guy of some kind. Not everyone was dressed looking as though they were ready to wait tables, but his apparel was even weirder.

"Uh... No problem?" Kazuma replied as he watched the strange guy pull out a pair of glasses and apologize. Why would he cry though? "It happens. I was standing next to the door, after all."

A bit into their odd little conversation, the door opened once again to allow another entry. This one was another giant; one that required a slight double-take. Reason being, this one was a woman. Kazuma wasn't particularly tall; he was somewhat above the average, but the sharp-eyed woman was well over the typical height for even a man. She walked in a greeted a couple people, leading Kazuma to believe that she wasn't a brand-new hire. Either way, her slightly intimidating demeanor made him wonder just what she did here.

Following her was another oddly-dressed person. Kazuma recognized her fairly quickly after she began to speak. That was the boss and owner of the establishment. Her voice and tone was quite memorable from even just the short conversation they had on the phone. She called him suddenly and told him to show up and he had to call back to question who had left him such a cryptic message. In hindsight it was obvious, though after the initial deal was cut, his debtors went radio silent for a while. He began searching for jobs just in case when the woman called him. While smaller than he was, Kazuma would know all too well that she was not someone to aggravate, even if he was unaware of her ties.

Finding a stack of papers with his picture clipped on, Kazuma took it and began looking through it as the woman spoke. He was a Greeter and Waiter; pretty predictable.

"M-Me?" Referred to as the four-eyes who would fluster a house-wife, he was then warned not to do anything further and Kazuma wondered whether he should bother questioning what she expected to happen.

It was quite the weird inauguration. Some of it was pretty standard while other parts were--Well, as she said this wasn't just an ordinary family restaurant. Regardless, all he needed to do was mind his own business and treat it like a normal restaurant. Though the person outside did worry him somewhat. Did she get a photo of everyone before sketchily running away...?

Looking around, the "boss" had left as suddenly as she appeared. She referred to "Hibari", which Kazuma could only assume was the girl with a similar appearance. Were they family? It would explain the first-name basis.

"W-Well... I'm Kenichi, Kazuma... I'll be waiting and greeting." He was still shaking off that weird introduction. "Sorry, should any of us be worried about the... erm, window shopper?"
 
Takenaka Katashi
Location: Painted Shark Lobby
Interactions: N/A​

"Just like the boss."

Idly watching as the new crew cycled in one after the other. Katashi kept quiet for the most part, aside from his repeat yawns. He would let Hibari handle the questions and greeting. It wasn't likely he would see any of them back in the kitchen anyways. Sizing up each entry, it became apparent that this bunch was likely to be more unruly and "hands on" than the last team he had worked with. In particular the giant woman who leered at him, and the lean man with an eye for trouble. The latter he recognized from picking out the fighters in a group. The woman, well, he just returned her stare with a dead set of eyes. It helped that he was dead tired.

Considering it meant he could spend more time in the kitchen instead of dealing with shit customers, Katashi didn't consider it an entirely bad prospect. The rest were fairly "normal" and seemed the usual sort to apply before they realized what that meant and resigned. On that thought, it wasn't long before the Boss made herself known. Descending from her thrown room, and dropping their files on the counter. Katashi kept where he was and tried to seem as if he was paying attention, and not half asleep. A portion of her brief he had already hear, the other was her usual ramblings. He needn't look to see his position, as it was unlikely he would be moved to being a greeter or waiter. He'd been there and done that, and it had marred the restaurant's reputation as a consequence.


rfnGTqv.jpg
Location: Painted Shark Lobby, Rival's Lair
Interactions: @EmperorsChosen @Jessica

Takenaka Katashi

"Nah, I got it covered."

Face now adorned with a scowl. As the brief completed, Katashi having waited for the boss to step out, began making his move. Waltzing around a few of his new fellow employees, he exited the Painted Shark without a word and headed directly for the sushi place across the street. Not bothering to look before crossing, he was angrily honked at just before reaching their front door. Swinging it open, he stood there in the doorway for a moment. Pulling out his phone from his pants pocket. The rest of his crew would be able to notice the obvious flash from the camera. Which, he lad left on intentionally to let the rivals know he didn't give a damn to their privacy just like they had to the rest of them.

If they wanted to stop him, they were welcome to try.


Eventually, he would make his way back to the Painted Shark. The newcomers having moved and now more centered towards the kitchen and storeroom area. He would casually join them in beginning to stock for tomorrow's opening.

"Hey, Kotone. They know where everything goes already?"
 
Tsuchiya Katsuro

Location: Ikebukuro - Painted Shark
Date: March 16, 20XX

Interactions: @EmperorsChosen - Kazuma, @RedArmyShogun - Hibari



As Katsuro walked in, the girl by the counter's hand shot down to her pocket, then relaxed. Some sort of weapon there, maybe? Regardless, by her answer, this was indeed the correct place. It also seemed that he hadn't noticed that he had a tail, as another shorter girl had followed him in through the door. When had she gotten behind him?

A few minutes later, and a sickly-looking man and a college student stepped in, closely followed by... A man? A woman? Difficult to tell. Depending on the light, the individual looked like either. Also quite eccentric, if their reaction to hitting the college student with the door was indicative of anything. Katsuro gave each a polite nod and greeting as they entered. About ten minutes later, a woman taller than him walked in through the door. Or maybe it was just the heels. Why in god's name did she feel the need to wear heels if she's already that tall?

The next few moments answered that question. She just seemed to be rather... vain? Or maybe just flamboyant? As he was thinking, a woman in plaid pushed her way to the front, placing folders of employment sheets down on the counter and scattering his mulling over the oddity. A bit strange? Wouldn't those normally be presented one on one?

She then launched into a spiel, but it was so dense with information that Katsuro couldn't absorb most of it. The basics sounded fairly normal, though? Don't rough up the customers, no discounts, and go help with unpacking the shipment? Soon as she finished her lecture, she made her way out of the room.

Katsuro stepped forwards towards the counter, letting anyone shorter get past him. It wasn't like they were tall enough that he wouldn't be able to see the forms over their heads. It appeared that he'd been listed as a greeter. While at it, he took a glance over the other sheets to get an eye for general names.

Meanwhile, the college student – Kazuma – had raised a bit of a point. "Doesn't seem to have bothered the boss lady all that much. If you're worried, just remember their face and keep an eye out."

Meanwhile, it seemed there were a few other questions that should be asked. He turned to face Hibari. "Should we all get changed to help move the shipment in? And is there a shift assignment up somewhere?"
 
Sakurako Oba
9ppjiii-jpg.212266


Painted Shark
Mentions:

Interacting: Yoriko @RedArmyShogun Katashi @Astros Kazuma @EmperorsChosen

Not long after her entry, came the boss. Sakurako opened her mouth to shoot out a greeting, but the other woman beat her to the punch, getting right into it. As her mouth closed in irritation, the woman she was really here for went on to explain how the place was ran. Seemed like typical blue collar restaurant work. Not that Sakurako was wholly familiar with that. Still, yeah, didn't seem too complicated. Well, not on the surface anyway. Yoriko Nishikawa had alluded to some of the more "under the table" type dealings this place was involved with, but didn't elaborate. Yoriko knew her stuff, so that made sense. Even her vaguely casual threatening tone was well-honed through the years.

It brought a smile to Sakurako's face.

"Give me 5 minutes, I'll go over there, and after a brief chat they won't be our competition anymore," the woman randomly stated aloud, a small knife-like grin visible under the brim of her hat.

Once the boss's spiel was done, Sakurako tugged on the brim of her hat and stepped forward. She peered down at the employment papers dropped on the table. She spotted hers, and after a subtle frown, snatched it.

Her feet carried her after Yoriko, but then she paused, hearing someone speak up about the shady photographer.

"Yes!" Sakurako snapped her finger at the male who introduced himself as Kazuma. "I shall go and neutralize the threat."

However, as she was speaking, someone was already in action. Her sharp eyes followed him across the street, then back. She smirked. She was impressed by his proclivity for action. Then as he returned, she dipped her hat to him.

"Name's Sakurako. Good day, boys, girls."

She walked after the departed boss. Catching up to her before she fully departed, Sakurako spoke up so only Yoriko would hear. Saying the greeting she had wanted to say earlier. "Yo, boss-man ~I mean, Nishikawa~san. There must be some mistake. The paper reads 'waitress'; bouncer's good. But you know why I'm here. To be your bodyguard. A duty I am most amazing, incredible, and perfect at, if I must say so myself."

Sakurako paused, glancing down at 'waitress' one last time. "Where's my uniform?" she asked with a joking tone. She highly doubted any here would fit her.
 




Enichi Mori

Location: Ikebukuro, The Painted Shark
Interactions: Yoriko (@RedArmyShogun ), Sakurako (@Thaleko )

"Phew-" Enichi let out a sigh of relief that the high-school or college-aged boy seemed alright, perhaps it's because the doors of a family restaurant usually can't inflict grave bodily harm on someone. They casually strolled a few steps in and sat up on a table with a little hop while more people arrive...tall people. Ah, is this what America is like? Enichi thought as they recalled the heigh differences between continents, they thought they were tall enough in Japan due to their Chinese heritage, but there are always exceptions to the rules. Though the thought process was quickly cut off by the arrival of the boss.

"Ahah, Yoriko-basan, I mean, Yoriko-nee is intense as always." Enichi muttered as their boss strolled in, Yoriko always had this demeanor of a drill sergeant that they never liked. Someone who thought college was a too restrictive life style would probably never like a boss such as Yoriko, but she doesn't ask too many questions, and likes people who don't ask too many questions. These were enough pros to outweigh the cons.

"Human mystery? You speak like I'm a UMA or something...ah, at least you added the human part this time..." Enichi yawned and stretched as they looked around, sounding dramatically defeated, "...Aye, Enichi Mori, elite engineer, just call me Enichi, Mori-san if you want me to fix something."

Another yawn came out of the repairman, as they watched college student, Kazuma or something, speak up about the strangeries around the district. Enichi was no stranger to the going ons, it was hard for an elite (former) yakuza engineer not to notice some unusual traces. Wasn't any of their business though, in fact, they reap the rewards of conflict by getting paid to clean up the scenes.

"Sakura-chan, blood is hard to clean up, almost as hard as fixing a broken dignity-" The repairman responded to the tall woman's words, in a joking fashion, though how much of it was actually a joke can be debated, "I'm an engineer, not a janitor, and here I thought Katashi-kun was troubling enough."
 
Kagome Himura
Mentions: Yoriko
Interacting: Sakurako | @Thaleko








It only took a couple more minutes until new faces started coming through the doors too. A guy with glasses, a.... person who looked unique, and a very tall woman with a damn good fashion sense. The same lady with the neat boots and cool attitude greeted her by calling her "shorty."

"Shorty? That mean I can call you Giant?" She asked Sakurako, but wouldn't be expecting a response. She took a moment to grab the papers with her face attached to it. A brief explanation of the locker room situation was given before a woman with an umbrella and a plaid suit walked into the building. This one looked familiar from when Kagome had put in her application. No way was this lady just a regular employee... When Yoriko opened her mouth, she proved just as much.

Kagome was rather surprised to hear her boss talk so... freely. You'd usually expect a "the customer is always right" motto from them and a bullshit motivational speech after a friendly introduction. This one was straight to the point and no nonsense.... Nice. Even better, this place wouldn't take any shit, which was even better.

The restaurant's ratings probably wouldn't be the best with that policy, but hey, at least they didn't have to let themselves be walked on for some shitty entitled customer.

However, it was what Sakurako said that got Kagome's attention.

"Why does a restaurant need bouncers when it doesn't even serve alcohol?" She asked her question aloud but then thought about it for a second. "Actually, I shouldn't ask. I'm Kagome by the way. Waitress."



----------------------​


Kotone Suzuki
Mentions:
Interacting: Katashi | @Astros Everyone








New faces poured through the door, more than Kotone originally thought there'd be. Some tall, some short, each from relatively different backgrounds. The one with the glasses stuck out the most, but for the wrong reasons.

'What's he doing here? Does the poor guy have any idea what he's gotten himself into?' Kotone thought to himself, though he figured there has to be something if Kazuma didn't run out of the door the moment the boss introduced herself the way she did. Yoriko had always been straight to the point and very carefree with her language. If her introduction wasn't enough to tell the new faces as much, then they were dumber than they looked.

To Kotone's surprise, no one walked out. This would be interesting~

"Enjoy the trip?" He asked Katashi as he walked back in then answered. "I doubt it. They might need some help."

It was then he remembered he never introduced himself to the new people. "Oh right, I'm Kotone Suzuki. I make the desserts here. Maybe I'll treat you all once we get through our first week~" 'Assuming you're all still here.' He thought the last part to himself.


 
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Hibari

1614900956871-png.212591

Location: Painted Shark Lobby
Interactions: @kookyboy9 @Astros @EmperorsChosen

As Katashi made his way from the place, Hibari was none too pleased with her sister throwing work off on her. "..." Pondering the questions she was given it took the later only a brief time to return, though his visit had not gone unnoticed but thankfully everyone there also seemed busy. A shrill cry from a rough male voice yelled "That's right! Run away mother fucker! We'll be seeing you soon! And Dammit Takashi Chan! I said be careful not-"

The rest would not be heard, but for his efforts Katashi would be rewarded with the images of at least six other people, ones known to him minus one, that being the boy with glasses. A woman and a boy with white hair, a tall man who in spite of a cute apron that screamed Yakuza, a rather angst looking male with glasses, a woman with piercings and modest jewelry that screamed punk and lastly but not least, the girl with blue hair that was last to be screamed at. The staff, or at least a portion of it for Slammin Sushi. A husband and wife couple managed the place with their eldest son, but they were just as normal as most other things around the district.

"...I.." Where to even begin? Hibari was distinctly uncomfortable but continues on, a distant gaze to her eyes. Time to break things down and reply to them in turn, starting with the comment on the window shopper;

"That was Takashi Ayase.. She's a bit wild but is a spy for Slammin Sushi.. Just a headache more than a threat, but she buys things here time to time so we mostly leave her alone. She's terrible at her job."

Hibari says, seemingly dismissing the girl before adding on one final remark.

"She will fight you though, good climber, pulls hair and the like. Insane.."

Next there was the questions about shifts from Katsuro, that she could not answer for sure, that should have been Yoriko's job.

"I think for the next couple of days we'll just try getting operational and people up to speed, Yor.. Nishikawa San is flexible on hours and schedules. It is possible depending on how well we all get along or how busy we are that all of us may work a shift together, a few days out of the week, apart or just four hours each day, she likes to factor in days and times of other work or studies.. Nishikawa San tends to feel out where to place people and debates it with Tsao Shinji.. You should meet him soon, he is a half Chinese cook and co-manager.. Ran the place till it changed hands around two years ago.. I've only worked here one year. The trucks will arrive throughout the early part of the day and yeah we know where everything goes, but the cooks can be..demanding."

She wasn't sure why she added all of that on but pauses once more as the giant heads off to catch up to her eldest sister. "As to the uniform.. It is optional if we have one in on your size for today, they should arrive soon. It just helps to break them in before shifts. After today you'll need to wear it when on shift.. And I think the temporary shift for the week will be up today."

As to the rest of the staff introducing themselves, Hibari didn't see the need, her sister had taken care of it. Though if she recalled she never introduced herself... That woman just didn't care did she? Though Hibari didn't seem to care all that much either as she looks blankly ahead, forcing a smile upon her face and slightly narrowing her eyes.

"I'm sure we all have things we like to do or other jobs outside of this."

Or Yoriko would offer a use for them, she didn't bother to add aloud, it was good that they didn't know too much yet.


Yoriko
1614902827804-png.212604

Location: Painted Shark Boss's Office
Interactions: @Thaleko

Stopping as her guard catches up, Yoriko smiles, looking back at the other. A smile that was not happy so much as taunting. "Don't take the Ishikawa clan so lightly or you may be the one in need of replacement." Had she somehow heard the previous conversation or had she guessed the woman's temperament? It was hard to say but she was starting to push buttons, or at least attempting so to Sakurako.

"This is a family restaurant that gets people that are odd or looking for a fight at times. I don't want to scare away my front because you want to look fearsome to some old lady or family get together, never mind the cops. Plus with you on the floor least they come in through the kitchen they'll have to take one of the main entrances, where you will be. Think of yourself as the pain in the ass bodyguard before the final boss. Also don't get in the way of my fun. The Ishikawa's amuse me...random trash just looking to test me though? Well you can test them, but that normally doesn't happen till after we close."

Pausing for a bit at that she turns her face back forward, with a tiny glance she continues;

"I don't think we have anything in your size yet, but it should arrive with all the other shit here shortly. Also just do what I say if its not in the way of that Job of yours. I do love Ojiisan, but make no mistake, I will be the next head. I earned it in blood and I will keep it with more of the same."


She says in the same low tone as her bodyguard.

"You see Oba Chan, I like to play as well, so do your job, but let me have my fun. Hell I might even let you face that man while I watch. But afterhours is all that should concern you a lot outside of the occasional amusement. Was there anything else?"
 
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  • Bucket of Rainbows
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Kazuma Kenichi

Mentions: Yoriko, Sakurako, Kotone, Katashi

Interactions: @RedArmyShogun @kookyboy9




Kazuma's eyes followed the bat man as he begrudgingly left the restaurant and made his way across the street. Just what was he going to do? The scary woman also claimed to want to "neutralize the threat", to which Kazuma hoped she was just speaking dramatically. Everyone seemed fairly nonchalant, but Kazuma wasn't convinced. Even one of the giants spoke up and reiterated that no one else seemed worried, advising him to keep an eye out but otherwise not to think much of it.

"Aha... I suppose you're right... though I get the feeling she isn't the type of person to get tense over just anything..."

Of course, the man was, as mentioned, one of the giants. He had a scary-looking pair of eyes too. What would he have to worry about? Or the boss for that matter. Kazuma couldn't say for certain that everyone here was yakuza, but Yoriko absolutely was. He was just a guy about to enter into college.

As if to further emphasize the abnormality of this, the man with the bat returned shortly thereafter following the sound of some shouting from the other restaurant. The only person whose words brought some comfort was he green-haired girl, Hibari.

"A... spy?" Kazuma repeated. A spy for what reason? Why were they being spied on?

Regardless, being pointed out that while the woman was terrible at subterfuge, she was also insane, would fight you and pull your hair, didn't put Kazuma's mind at ease. The resemblance between the boss and the slim girl shone more over time, especially with that forced smile and narrowed gaze.

Forcing a smile himself, the cook at least seemed nice.

"That's not too atypical. I've worked at some places where the cooks were particular with where everything went. They usually have it in a way that's streamlined for them," Kazuma commented, presuming that demanding referred to where they wanted the stock to be.
 
Sakurako Oba
9ppjiii-jpg.212266


Painted Shark
Mentions:
Interacting:
Yoriko @RedArmyShogun

Sakurako held up her hand. "Not taking anyone lightly, ma'am. It's apart of my job not to. In fact, it's the opposite; I consider everyone harder, tougher, stronger, than they appear. Helps me be effective in what I do." She smirked. "Looking intimidating and mean is also apart of my job. It's not my intention of scaring away business. Only to keep the place safe."

She nodded. "Earning in blood is the best way to earn something," Sakurako agreed. Only to frown being referred to as 'Oba-chan'. Her boss was speaking of respect, but seemed to lack it for her. Who didn't respect their own bodyguard? She grinned. "Nope. Nothing else ma'am." She dipped her hat and head. "This was a fun conversation, enlightening, too. Later, boss."

Sakurako waved nonchalantly and sauntered back towards the rest of the employees.
 
~~~ A Few days later -The Painted Shark~~~~
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&
1614902827804-png.212604


Hibari & Yoriko
Location: The Painted Shark
Interactions: EVERYONE
The next couple of days would pass with little of note happening other than a flurry of orders and the beginnings of a work schedule starting to establish its self. But for now all of them were on hand, even if it was just to rotate out for another to take their place on a Saturday afternoon. Though the atmosphere of today did seem different, for reasons Kagome would understand from whispers in the streets, as well as not so subtle whispers at that. Whatever peace was born to this place from the busy period was set to end, Tonight was the night, whatever that meant.

Though judging by the bookies and anticipation filled gawkers it seemed that a fight was to be expected. And speaking of Gawkers, Kagome herself and Sakurako had attracted some of their gawkers of their own, a giant lady was rare after all. Though none of them had attempted to say much less, do anything, more like fanboys taking notice and likely gone as soon as they came. Still with those two and Kenichi on hand there was little overcrowding. Thankfully as Yoriko made her way to the Employee break room, this did not seem to be the norm as the first Schedule was finally done. Pinning it to the board there were a few side employees for Shifts A1 and A2, but those did not matter much to those on B1 and B2. Or it should not have mattered to them.

All in all only two of the people here could be considered full time employees, unsurprisingly the two Line Cooks, Shinji and Shinobu. Other than that the list for B group was as so, starting Monday;

Shift 1 - from 1500 - 2000 (3pm to 8pm) Hibari, Kagome, Katashi, Sakurako and Shinobu on every Monday, Tueseday, Wendseday, baring holidays.

And;

Shift 2 - from 1500 - 2000 (3pm to 8pm) Karsuro, Kazuma, Kotone, Kenza and Shinji on every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, with the place closed on Sunday.

In addition it was noted that Shinobu worked on the first half of Shift 2A and that Shinji worked with shit 1A. The list then went on to detail break periods and other miscellaneous rules. All in all it was 18 hours a week for each of them, fitting to part time work.

Humming to herself there seemed to be a slowdown in the general workload, she waited to see who would come with issue to her list as a little green haired hid in the break room with a stuffed bunny and an oversized jacket that belonged to Hibari draped over her shoulders. Hibari for her part came by to look at the list and then returned to the counter as the spy from a few days before makes her presence known, waving at Kagome and Kenichi, or anyone really before attempting to make her way to Hibari, a wild look to her eyes. "Yo!" Ayase yelled out before covering her mouth. "Opps! Ah yeah the Boss man sent me, we'll start back our game tonight! Ahaha!"

Hibari sighs and gives a nod, forcing a smile to her face. "You have to buy something if you want to sit in here and talk.."

Just then a small group of elderly patrons enter behind her. Normal seeming and chatting among themselves it was unlikely they would cause a problem. Though someone would need to deal with them and the self admitted spy.


Meanwhile back in the Kitchen, Shinji was keeping a careful eye on the three as he thrusts a fist into the air at the progress being made. "Yes! That is the Spirit! One should take pride in the work they do! But yes, I do think I seen Boss Nishikawa go past the back door then. Might give you an idea for your hours." Smiling at that the old man looks at the boys in turn. Ironic that so many of the cooks for this shit and in general were male and young. Shinji knew he was getting no younger and cared not to hinder the progress of them... Well what progress that could be made in a restaurant at any rate.

"Miura, you'll one day be able to take over from me, but that will not be anytime soon haha! Takenaka and Suzuki there will be dependable, but I aim to teach you all a bit more if you'll listen."

With those words said, he looks at the three and nods, not overly formal the old man knew more about this sort of work than they did. If not because of the fact he had worked in the industry longer than any single one of them had lived. And he had worked with two of them for a small handful of years now, the sweets boy was a new factor, but he had little doubts he would fit in... Well till the main event started, then it was anyone's guess.

Yoriko for her part smiles at his words before calling out to them. "Hey! Stop acting like an old man and his students and bring me something sweet!"


Things seemed rather "normal" if not for the outburst of Ayase as a third figure hovered just outside the doorway, waiting for things to get moving a bit.
 
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Shinobu Miura
Location: Ikebukuro - The Painted Shark
Interactions: N/A
Mentions: Technically everyone, but not really

That morning, Shinobu had woken up extra early. Well... to say that meant he didn't wake up extra early every other morning. He'd picked out his clothes, most a bit too large to fit him properly. A mostly white ensemble accented with small patches of black and baby blue saw him moving through the streets like a ghost who'd yet to pass on to the next world. He couldn't help enjoying the weather a bit. After all, it wasn't too windy, hardly any humidity in the air at all, and not a cloud in the sky. That meant, he didn't have to worry about his hair whipping all over the place, especially not after his little cousin had wrangled it into a pony tail for him. He could have done without the, admitted nice, blue bow, but what could he do?

It was his fault really for stopping in to visit before work. He hadn't seen his aunt in a few weeks though, and phone calls were few and far between. Maybe it was by design, but he still wanted to make sure they were alright.

Still, now that left him just in time to The Painted Shark. Maybe it was a stroke of luck that he'd managed to arrive at right on time, using the apparent giantess who'd entered before him as cover. If she was "perfect" for her 1 minute early arrival, did that make him "super perfect" or something since he was exactly on time? Shinobu pondered it for a moment, moving about as inconspicuously as possible, drawing as little attention as he could. The boss certainly made that easy as she made her entrance.

He listened closely, not just to the boss, but to everyone for a brief moment before disappearing into the kitchen. He could leave everything to Kotone, Katashi, and the other "old" staff in his stead. He had work to do. Besides, It was better to see who'd stick around before making friends. If he decided to make friends.

"Hmmm... Where to begin?"

Shinobu spent the rest of that day keeping largely to himself. He wasn't anti-social or anything. Quite the contrary. He would have interacted, made niceties, and all that good stuff, has the need arisen anyway. But somehow, by the sheer fate of the gods, he tended to just leave or enter a room as others either left or entered themselves. It was quite the phenomenon.



Some days later...
Location: Ikebukuro - The Painted Shark - Kitchen
Interactions: Shinji & Yoriko (@RedArmyShogun )
Mentions: Kagome and Kotone (@Jessica ), Sakurako (@Thaleko ),
Kazuma (@EmperorsChosen ), & Katsuro (@kookyboy9 )

The next few days somehow saw Shinobu interacting very little if at all with the newer staff. It wasn't like many of them had reason to seek him out specifically in most occasions. They'd more or less all been staffed those first few days after all. Katsuro was more than capable of handling anything they might need along with Kotone while he and the head chef focused more on elevating the food, at least to a degree. Everything was running smoothly. More so, in fact, than he'd initially expected after seeing the new crew who would be on deck.

Still, it was nice. Now though, at least in the kitchen, he was wearing his uniform and a hair net (obviously), each strand meticulously tucked away. It was far more form fitting than his casual attire, a necessity in a fast moving and dangerous environment like the kitchen. Shinobu took his job seriously, if nothing else.

He couldn't help cracking a smile as Shinji spoke. "Yes, Chef!" he answered. He wasn't sure the others would join, but he was happy to do so. Besides, this was a rarity. A genuine smile, unlike those he would give customers on the off chance when he had to cover for a member of the wait staff. Hopefully he wouldn't have to do that for a while with the newbies around. He still wasn't sure what he thought of them to be honest.

Kagome seemed aggressive. She had an attitude, but she was doing a good enough job playing nice. She was beautiful too and had a nice body. He could tell why she had developed a small following so quickly. Then, there was Sakurako. Her hiring besides Kagome was interesting. The best of both worlds for some patrons. She was gorgeous as well. Kazuma was a diligent worker who could turn a few heads as well in a sort of plain, boy-next-door kind of way. Shinobu got the feeling he didn't take good enough care of himself. Katsuro seemed realiable enough, in a friendly giant kinda way. But Shinobu wasn't stupid. He could probably beat someone within an inch of their life if he wanted. Course... seemed a good amount of the staff too.

Thinking about it, most of the staff was comprised of good looking people. Were they all secretly models or something? Was that what Yoriko was looking for in applicants? No... she didn't seem the type. More the...

"Hey! Stop acting like an old man and his students and bring me something sweet!"

Shinobu was dragged from his thoughts. "Ah, Boss." It seemed that when one spoke of the devil he, or she in this case, would appear. Although... he had been thinking this time. Semantics. "I suppose we are something like a teacher and his students," he laughed a little bit, stepping paway from his station. His smile was still present, though a bit different now. It wasn't necessarily fake, but a little less enthusiastic. It still felt weird answering to Yoriko. In truth, he wasn't quite sure how he felt about her.

Still, he wasted no time in grabbing a plate with some freshly prepared Daifuku on it. "It's a good thing Kotone always has something ready." And Shinobu was pretty sure this plate wasn't meant for a customer. "It's a good thing we've got such a good patissier on staff. I doubt the rest of use could sate your sweet tooth without him." He laughed a bit. Of course he'd give Kotone the credit. He was only looking to avoid the potential accident of their follow cook tripping and splattering the treat on the Boss's chest or head.
 
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Takenaka Katashi

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Location: Painted Shark Kitchen
Mentions: @Demon Shinobi @Jessica
Interactions: @RedArmyShogun

With a few days to return to "normality", and a respectable amount of hours added to his pillow since their introductory get together. Katashi with renewed energy busied himself with the heat of the stove top. Tending to several dishes at once, he regularly was switching between utensils and modes of cooking. Having opted out of the hair net unlike Shinobu, his hair instead was done up in the tightest ponytail imaginable. This was allowed with one stipulation.

"If I hear of a single strand in the food, I'll have the entire head."

He assumed the boss had meant she would have him shave it. But, with her one really couldn't tell. Maintaining a safe distance from the food, as a precaution. Katashi worked with a routine intensity. Keeping his focus on the food and overall watching that he didn't let something sit for too long and inadvertent burn. He also maintained a watchful eye to avoid the opposite. Serving under cooked food was likely a greater blunder than making the customer eat a bit of charcoal.

At any rate, Shinobu's chipper response registered among the controlled chaos, and Katashi sported a smile in return. The kid had changed quite a bit from their first days.

~~~

"We're all ears. Chief. But I wonder if you can teach the Master of Sweets anything new. "

While the boss lady would always retain the rights to being the "Boss". Katashi still recognized Shinji as the chieftain of the establishment. He had almost three times the life experience of any of them, and more than half of that was behind the range. It was Shinji too who had taught Katashi much of what he now knew and practiced. Of course, Shinobu had been there to reinforce much of that. Even if it was highly awkward at the start.

Despite no long term intention to make it as a line cook, Katashi still was open to whatever Shinji would spare. Often, his lectures came with a ting of life advice if not some obscure history to the restaurant. Whether that proved useful later or insightful to understanding how things came to be. In either case it would help pass the time until the night arrived. Sparing a glance toward his bat. It stood at the ready, propped against a wall in the corner of the room.
 
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