Answers Yet To Receive [Kallie] - Complete

[Valen Blackthorne]

Another expected busy night ahead, Valen had spent a good chunk of time in the late afternoon prepping the bar to get fairly busy, and it was a good thing he had. Though the place was tiny, as was the town, that just meant even a few people could make it feel crowded. It wasn't to the point where he would be too overwhelmed, but the younger 'man' did keep himself on the move at all times. It wasn't a weekend night, so that did make a difference as well, people would no doubt be working tomorrow so going out and spending quite a bit of money and time at a bar likely wasn't their first idea, but he did have quite a few people who either stopped in for food or a quick 'after work' beer, but then you did have the occasional regular or two that stuck around until you got a little bit closer to closing time.

“Does the Missus know you're even here, Al?” Valen questioned to a man who looked about...twenty five years older than he did, one of the regulars that frequented the bar, it was these people that helped Valen stay afloat, he was being the best host he could be, without sugar coating it too much, they could head up to the Strongbrew cafe if they wanted picture perfect service without so much as a sarcastic comment – unless he was the patron, of course. “I told her I needed some air.” The fellow across the bar replied in a gruff tone, obviously having one too many beers already. The tone to 'Al's voice was amusing, causing Valen to give a low chuckle. “And this is the best place for air?” “I like beer with my air.” “Fair enough.” Who was Valen to argue that point? It was perfect, after all.

Having chatted with the few people sitting at the bar, Valen was sure to watch the crowd out on the floor at tables as well, he had one server already working, one cook working, and he was thankful that they weren't getting their asses kicked tonight. Alice and Marcell away for some...camping trip or something. Oh well, he hoped they had fun, was just thankful that this wasn't a disaster. While wandering back and forth down the bar, ensuring that everyone was taken care of, Valen did do well to study each of his customers. Most faces he knew, about ninety nine percent, but there always was the occasional rare face that he didn't recognize, which always made him want to engage that person and see what he could find out. He seemed to lose one particular face in the small crowd, but didn't think much of it, he could get back to that later, instead, Valen took a small break, not worrying about the amount of glasses that needed to be cleaned just yet. Instead, he folded his arms across his chest and leaned back against the backside of the bar and just...observed.

He truly did love this place, finding Valhaven just about as charming as possible, and the bar route was definitely the route to go, it had been awhile since he worked in the bar or restaurant business during this human segment of his life...but it was something that he had grown rather attached to.

tagged; kallie | wearing; >>click<< | location; | notes; no idea what this is

Template made by Raz at Valhaven

[Kallisto Motte]

Kallie had been curious to visit the bar ever since running into Valen at the repair shop. She’d heard about it about it in passing from some of the customers that came into her cafe. They sure did love to talk. Of course, Valen had also invited her to stop by the first time they’d met. She’d given it a couple of days before deciding to dress up and head out for the night.

It was just a regular town bar, mainly locals but the occasional passerby might stop in. Didn’t stop Kallie from going all out. She rarely got the excuse to dress up. Catching a taxi to downtown she stepped into the bar warily. Slowly her eyes scanned the interior to get her bearings. It was nicely decorated, better than what she expected. Kallie wore a simple black strapless dress, nothing overly fancy. She liked to keep somewhat lowkey. Though she did catch a few eyes on her before she located the bar.

Here goes nothing.

Wandering forward she weaved through the crowd of people to finally get to the bar. Elbows resting on the counter she waved her hand to Valen with a small smile. Once he’d gotten close enough she spoke, “Nice place you have here, would be shame if something happened to it.” She grinned mischievously, slowly coming to the conclusion she enjoyed taunting him. “I’ll have whatever you’d recommend, surprise me”

Made by Rora of Valhaven ♥

[Valen Blackthorne]

Things were fairly normal, Valen was pleased at how the evening was going, it was busy but not too incredibly insane, just enough to keep him moving most of the time. This was good one week nights, some nights were busier than others, and this happened to be a good one, you know, for not being the weekend. As he observed the patrons coming and going, he socialized easily, tending to the bar as he was supposed to, it was just a normal night...well...it was normal...until Valen's eyes had shifted to the doorway and spotted just the top of a blonde head of hair. Now, he had seen many blondes before, most of them were pretty great...but he had a sinking feeling in his gut that this one...was unlike the others. Not to mention, that feeling of another presence nearby...well...that was a good indicator as to what had just walked through the doors.

Upon spotting Kallie heading up to the bar, where he was manning the fort, he couldn't help but take in her appearance for a moment. Well wasn't she dressed up all...nice. Blinking slightly and continuing to only catch her out of the corners of his eyes, he didn't even register someone else speaking to him, until that voice got incredibly loud. “BLACKTHORNE!” "Huh?" Shifting his gaze to that of the patron he had been speaking to a few moments ago, Al, Valen looked confused for a brief moment. “You awake over there? I said I'd take another...then you turned into a space cadet.” Al informed, tapping the bottom of his empty beer bottle against the bar top. Valen was quick – and maybe a little annoyed – and got the man his drink before the older fellow had one last piece of advice for him before deciding to shoo and mingle with other people. “Close your mouth, son. Don't want to start actually drooling.”

Yep, annoyed.

With a little bit more space and a pretty blonde now seated at his bar, Valen dropped his eyes back to Kallie as she spoke, quirking a brow at her words as he slowly wandered towards her, remaining very casual as he folded his arms. “Shame if something happened to it? Well...you're here aren't you? I can't think of anything worse.” It was a dig, but it was a...slightly teasing dig, perhaps. He didn't actually mind her presence, at least most of the time. “Whatever I recommend, huh? I thought you didn't like surprises.” Grabbing a glass from under the bar top where a few of them were stored for quick access, he filled it to the rim with ice, paying attention, but also making sure keep a few glances going Kallie's way. “Do you trust me?” Regarding the drink...of course. Putting a few ingredients together, pineapple and lime juices, some orange juice and a splash of grenadine, combined with two different rums, light and dark, shaken together to make a sun-set colored drink. Pushing it across the bar towards Kallie, Valen was quick to shift into his relaxed stance once more, leaning slightly against the front of the bar, still watching other people in the process...but...the blonde did have most of his attention. “It's not pink but it's the perfect girly drink, enjoy.”

Giving it a few moments before feeling the need to talk again, Valen was a little curious as to what her visit was all about. Maybe it was just...friendly, checking out the place just as he had the Strongbrew Cafe, even still...anytime Kallie around it was fairly interesting. Borderline entertaining, but this...this place held a lot of human eyes that could be looking their way, or listening ears. It probably wouldn't be all that interesting with that fact coming into play. “I'm surprised you made it down here...didn't seem so interested to check it out, you know...since I'm here and all. Must be some other reason, do tell.”

tagged; kallie | wearing; linked | location; bar | notes; derp

Template made by Raz at Valhaven

[Kallisto Motte]

Kallie breezed through the crowd, walking like she belonged there. In fact she did now. This was her home. A lot of the folk there would be seeing a whole lot more of her. Maybe not so dressed up but they’d see her. Taking a stool at one of the vacated spots at the bar Kallie got herself comfortable. She’d planned to hang out for a little while, get a feel for the place. She never minded going places alone. Still, a smile happened when Valen approached with a dig of his own.

“I’m really that bad, hm? The fact you text me at all might say otherwise, or maybe you like torturing yourself?” She pulled a questionable fact to him, the smirk still present on her lips. The quiet town of Valhaven got a whole lot more interesting when Valen was around. “I have high bets on this being a good surprise. I like good surprises” she commented idly. Her voice soft, she knew she didn’t need to talk louder over the chitchat and music surrounding them. She assumed Valen could hear her well enough. She’d know soon enough.

She knitted her fingers together and rested her arms on the counter of the bar. He kept it clean, unlike some places she’d visited in the past. A sticky counter was the worst. Her eyebrow raised to the question. Was he really talking about the drink, or something more? “I have no choice but to” she replied, a sincere smile formed on her lips. Kallie watched him curiously as he mixed up a drink together for her. Usually in the comfort of her own home she’d stick to wine or something a little sweeter if she was in the mood for something more. This was a first, though she had seen them before. Just for other people. Eyes still on Valen when it was placed in front of her she stared him down. “Ever tried one of these yourself?”

She listened to him and thought on it a moment, letting her hand take the drink and bring it towards her lips. Drinking a mouthful it gave her enough time to stall without looking like she was attempting to stall. A very innocent pause. “Well, it’s a recommended bar, and the closest one to where I live. Seemed practical to check out my local.” She could feel the smile already on her face. She did that a lot, smile. It was a natural reflex. Others felt more at ease when Kallie smiled. She’d learned that growing up and meeting so many strangers and short term neighbours. “Can I start a tab? Or do I need to pay right this second, for this one?”

Made by Rora of Valhaven ♥

[Valen Blackthorne]

Kallie was the last person Valen expected to be here. It wasn't an unwelcome surprise...but he wasn't sure just what she was doing here to be quite honest. The dig to her wasn't...too incredibly serious, but it was a dig regardless. “Torture myself? I was just curious as to when I'd get some form of compensation for saving your piece of scrap metal that you call a car....which...you really should get worked on more often.” Valen was quick to reply, thinking back to the few texts that had gone back and forth between he and Kallie. Lots of...emojis, emojis that ultimately irritated the demon upon seeing them, but after awhile he hadn't indulged in replying, he did have more to do than just...keep talking to her nonstop. It was just a few messages, a little irritating, but it kept their banter rolling, even without having to actually face one another.

“A good surprise...” Smirking at Kallie's words, Valen couldn't help but drop his head slightly, shaking it in his own amusement. “Well then...I assure you this will be a good surprise.” Or at least he hoped it would be, everyone's palette was a little different. He had to go off of what he knew most girls liked, what he had seen over his many, many years of experience, and just hoped that it would suit Kallie's taste for the moment. If not, he could give it a second shot. “No, you really don't, but in this case...I suppose I can promise nothing bad will happen. It's just a drink after all, right?” Still just about that drink. Of course the underlying meaning behind it was fairly loud, fairly clear, he just had to wonder if Kallie figured that out yet. It was something similar to her words when he had come into her domain, returning the favor was only fair.

“Being a bartender you tend to try a little bit of everything.” Having put the drink down and slid it across the bar towards the blonde, Valen waited slightly, but he couldn't help the question that left his mouth. Why was Kallie here anyways? She knew he owned the place, she hadn't seemed too pleased upon seeing him at the repair shop...but somehow their...whatever you wanted to call their relationship – acquaintanceship, friendship? - didn't seem so bad. It was mostly based off of a ton of sarcasm and tiny digs at one another, but no one ever seemed to take too much offense. He didn't think much of the pause between his words and hers, but it was rather timely, wasn't it? Hearing what she had to say...watching her smile...it was a little contagious. Only a smidge. A tiny smile of his own spread across his lips before he stepped back away from the bar to the touch computer just being him on the back counter. “I guess that's a fair answer. I'll start you a tab though, I'll put it under...New Blood.”

Having entered everything into the computer – putting it under new blood as he had said he would – he then turned back to Kallie, still casual in stance, wanting to keep this meeting, especially in view of a good chunk of his loyal customers, quite peaceful. Not that there had ever been any non-peaceful interactions thus far, but you never know. “So what do you think? Good surprise?” He questioned the drink, making a small gesture towards his little concoction on the bartop. “I guess I should be nice and neighborly and ask...how is the business going? Seen any new faces? I may...or may not have sent a few your way...heard some great reviews about the place myself.” Being the eyes and ears of the town...Valen heard a lot of things, even about other businesses! It seemed like Strongbrew was definitely delivering, gaining some loyal clients that were hell bent on going back. It was just like how his business had flourished, and was still gaining good rep, just as hers would.

tagged; kallie | wearing; linked | location; VH Bar/Grill| notes; these two.

Template made by Raz at Valhaven

[Kallisto Motte]

“Fine” she started out, her mind working through her answer carefully. “I don’t plan for you to hold that over my head for the rest of my life, so I’ll pay it back. Right here. Right now. What form of payment do you want?” She threw out a challenge his way. Kallie was ready to bring out her purse if need be, or maybe he had something else in mind. A challenge of his own maybe which would wipe the slate clean. The texts between them had been light, fun. Kallie sent him the stupidest ones she could find to purposely bother him.

His words had her wondering exactly what he’d mix up for her. Kallie was fairly easy, she’d drink pretty much whatever is offered. She’s not massively picky. “Can’t wait.” As he continued to talk she felt he was still not talking about that drink. “Sure, it is just a drink” she agreed. “Not like I’m selling my soul to the devil or anything” Kallie laughed to herself. She just had to put that dig in there. It was a common enough phrase not to bring any unwanted attention their way. She wouldn’t have said it if she thought they were at any risk.

“So for my next drink, can you make it not so girly?” she laughed a little. “I’d like something more… me” Kallie wasn’t entirely sure what such a drink would look like. She was almost tempted to say it’d have a little salt, but quickly reminded herself his type might not keep that around. Kallie certainly knew none of the utensils at the cafe were silver. She knew what a bitch that felt like in her skin, no thank you. Watching his own smile grow she noted how nice he looked with one. That thought quickly dropped when he called her New Blood once more. “You know, I’m not going to be New Blood forever. Might need to work on a new nickname” She looked back to him with a more unimpressed glare.

While he worked through added her to the computer, Kallie worked through her drink. Placing the empty glass back down onto the counter with a satisfied clink she smiled. “Yeah I’d say it was good” she nodded with a slight tilt to her head and pushing the glass his way “How about that next drink?” Kallie could hold her drinks, one perk to enhanced healing was the quicker recovery time for hangovers. It also meant it took her a little more alcohol to really get anywhere. This was just a few drinks, nothing huge. It was a weekday, she’d be up again in the morning for work. “It’s going great actually. Hired two new staff, both rather new faces in town too.” Kallie had certainly been busy, but she loved every moment of working there. For the first time in a long time, she felt satisfied. “I’ve noticed your help too, thank you for that.” She could see this working relationship between them as two business people was going to be mutually beneficial. “If you have any events coming up, send over some leaflets or posters and I’ll put them up in the cafe” The bright idea came from nowhere. Plenty rolled through the cafe during the day. Giving Valens bar a little promotion was the least she could do.

Made by Rora of Valhaven ♥

[Valen Blackthorne]

Perhaps it was a little childish, but the slight grin that did form on Valen's lips couldn't be held back as soon as the words left Kallie's mouth. “Oooh. Right here, right now...and you're asking what kind of payment I want? That's a question I'm going to have to think about you know...you've left quite the opportunity in my hands.” He teased slightly, looking beyond amused with himself, unable to resist the opportunity to enjoy himself a bit – their banter was something he had grown accustomed to, perhaps he even looked forward to it. Either way, most of his time spent with Kallie so far was rather...entertaining so say the least, never a dull moment, even if you did have to read between the lines whenever something was said, at least they both understood.

The remark about selling her soul though, that got a Valen to cast a glance in her direction, it wasn't exactly a thrilled expression, but...he wasn't offended or anything, it was just yet another moment of ironic words which normally made him laugh...whenever he said them. “For a drink, no, but you never know...people have sold their soul for less.” Probably true, but that was just an assumption it wasn't as if Valen ever dealt with things like that, not really. “Not so girly? More like you? I'm assuming whatever it is...it should be extra salty. Maybe a little bitter? Does that sound right?” There was a small almost childlike tone to his voice as he watched the blonde carefully, happy with each and every dig he could make, he knew they wouldn't be taken personally...or at least he hoped they wouldn't be.

“I don't know...new blood is kind of growing on me, besides...it bothers you. Have to keep myself entertained somehow.” The unimpressed look he was given was the reward, it kept his smile going as he worked on the computer for a brief moment. Turning back to notice her drink was empty, Valen was a little perplexed as to how she could have drank it so fast...oh well, that was a higher tab in the end if she kept wanting them. Now, being a bartender...you had to know how to do almost every drink in the book, at least the important ones. One of the most important ones in America was the good old fashioned margarita, but there was one downside for that. Salt wasn't the most comfortable once it hit your skin, at least...for him. It didn't send him bursting into flames but it did irritate him, felt like a cigarette burn if not flicked off quickly, thankfully he had adapted rather easily to these salt rimmed drinks, with very few salt accidents in the process.

Carefully pulling out another glass and getting the rim lined with salt, he mixed everything else together in a tin glass before serving it up, salt and all, careful not to touch the garnish. “Extra salty, a Kalli-rita.” But he couldn't just keep throwing digs her way the entire night, he did drift to a more friendly side, asking about her business and how it was going, it was friendly regular chatter, kind of boring, but still it was 'neighborly'. “Glad to hear things are going well. Must be busy if you hired two new people.” Her offer was very kind, and he'd be sure to take her up on it as well, should any events come up. “Same in regards to you, I don't mind a bit of advertising.” Taking a glance up and down the bar, noticing that everything was under control for the moment, and noticing that people had sort of wandered away from the two of them, so anything he had to say likely wouldn't be overheard. “So...about that payment-” But...something uncomfortable did catch his attention. He could sense supernatural beings, Kallie had been one of them, but a different sort of feeling had struck him, drawing his attention towards the door to an entirely new face that wandered in.

Frowning slightly, but not being so fast as to judge, not all supernatural beings were bad, look at him...look at Kallie, and the several over folks he had run into over the years. Being a demon, something made out of darkness and evil...this felt uncomfortable even to him. “Don't worry about it.” He finally added on to his broken off statement, not that it had been the statement he wanted to make, but considering he had been a little blind sighted by a new presence, he didn't feel all that cheeky enough to make the comment. Noticing a few patrons looked to be ready for some drinks at a table on the other side of the bar that his one working waitress hadn't gotten to, leaving Valen the only able worker. “Stay on your toes, new blood.” He warned ever so slightly, and about as quiet as possible. “Looks like I actually have to work, enjoy the drink.” Tapping the bar lightly and moving out from behind it to work...Valen still didn't feel all that good, but he knew if there were any signs of something bad happening with these walls...he would be very quick to see that whatever it was...was taken care of.

tagged; kallie | wearing; linked | location; bar | notes; setting it up. sort of.

Template made by Raz at Valhaven

[Kallisto Motte]

When his grin appeared she already knew she’d regret putting that offer out there. “Well you have my number. Message it me once you finally think up something, genius.” She rolled her eyes some at his comment, hopefully he’d not torment her too much. Kallie wasn’t really sure what to expect from him. He’s managed to surprise her more than once so far. Their conversations were never boring, that was for certain. Kallie was slowly warming up to the guy. In her own weird way she felt she could very much relate to him. He’d been the first supernatural she’d come across in town. Maybe it was normal to be drawn to other supernaturals? She might have to think more on that some other time.

Kallie had been too amused with herself to care much for Valen’s look. She was certain he’d be dusting off the werewolf jokes if he ever knew what she was. That was still a big ‘if’, she’d still not decided on admitting anything yet. Had it just been Kallie it affected she might have told him a while back. This secret involved her family too. Saying what she was would be giving up their identities too. She wasn’t okay with that. “Guess it depends on the person.” She shrugged and refrained from adding not all were sell outs. Knowing he’d probably think there was more meaning to her words. Kallie wasn’t sure if she was a sell out, she didn’t feel like one. Their banter as strong as ever, Kallie grinned when he seemingly read her mind. “Sounds perfect. Don’t forget to make it black, like my soul” She wiggled her head a little in a childish manner back at him. Still with the unimpressed look when he called her New Blood once more she shook her head.

As he served her a more salty drink she felt a twinge of concern for him handling the salt. Sucking in her bottom lip she chewed on that to hide any discomfort. Valen clearly knew what he was doing, he probably had done it plenty of times before. The concern melted away at the name of the drink. Another laugh she nodded approvingly “It’s very… me” she laughed, bringing it up to sip. When he went onto the topic of business she felt herself go into more of a work-mode, “Yeah, I’ll be in most days training them up though. Nothing too difficult but want to be on hand if they need help with anything.” Licking the salt off her lips and focused on her drink. Enough business talk, Kallie pushed thoughts to the back of her mind. Right now she just wanted to let her hair down some. Valen cut himself off and averted his eyes. Kallie turned her head some to see what he was paying attention to. A lone man had stepped into the bar and scanned the room, much like she had. Kallie turned back to Valen and watched his hard stare. “You know him?” she asked casually. Not wanting to draw much attention to themselves. The bar's atmosphere had been too much of a distraction for Kallie to get a good reading on the patrons.

She gave Valen a weird look at his half message being ended on that note. “Right... I should get that in writing” she muttered to herself. Kallie had faintly heard the warning which put her on the alert. She could handle herself just fine, she had been handling herself just fine. Still, a warning was to be taken seriously. Raising her glass to him as he wandered off to serve others she drank up. Sliding off the stool she straightened up and began weaving through people, passing the new arrival on her way. Kallie had been completely unfocused on him, many of the faces in the bar were new to her. He seemed to take notice of her though, giving her a sideways glance as he took up the now vacant stool.

Hitting the dance floor Kallie mostly ignored the stares. She focused more on the rhythm of the music, slowly dancing alone to the beat. Kallie had never been a good singer, that she already knew, but she loved to dance. Her hips moving with purpose she didn’t stay in the same spot for long. Other people sometimes would sometimes come to join her on the dance floor. She moved on quickly before they had the chance to glue her down to one spot. Kallie wasn’t there for a hook up, she was just enjoying herself.

Wearing herself out some she dropped her elbows back onto the bar counter with a laugh. Waiting to catch Valen's attention she scanned the bar. Catching the same man from earlier staring, Kallie threw him a polite smile as she drew her attention back to the bar. Relieved to see Valen coming her way she gave him a small wave. “A shot for the road and the tab, please” she grinned mischievously. Kallie sure liked to make an impression on other people. She practically buzzed with energy now. Quitting while she was ahead sounded like a great way to end the night.

Made by Rora of Valhaven ♥

[Valen Blackthorne]

There were high and low notes when it came to conversing with Kallie, considering they were in a small sea of people at the moment...it had to be a high right? Some digs here and there, nothing more, though nothing less either, nothing could really go wrong. With the idea of payment casually lingering within Valen's head, he pushed that aside for the moment, it wasn't of great concern now anyways, instead...he did have to do his job and all. A laugh escaped Valen's lips as he was quick to offer up the idea of a drink that suited Kallie best, something...salty...bitter...not really appealing if you actually mixed the two, but she joined right in. “I think...out of the two of us, if anyone has a black soul...I wouldn't say it's you.” It was likely honest there, but also...teasing in a sense. The banter was fun, no matter what the topic was.

The banter had subsided though, shifting to something a bit kinder, a little more socially acceptable, talking about the businesses and what not. “Seems like this place is growing more with each passing day, huh? Didn't think I'd need to get some help around here myself...might have to look into it.” Though the small staff here was very able, he wasn't wrong. The town did seem a little bit busier than when he had first arrived, or maybe it was just his imagination. The topic of either business didn't last too long, Valen having started to drift back to the topic of payment when interrupted by...a slightly disturbing feeling. He knew the feeling, he couldn't exactly peg what sort of being was behind it, but it was just another confirmation that this place was bustling anymore. He hadn't felt this many supernatural beings in one place for quite some time, it was almost a little...startling. Having cast a glance towards the doorway, watching one man enter, it seemed as if Valen's more playful and sarcastic tone had changed.

If only slightly...sort of.

He had been staring, trying to get a better read on what sort of creature had just walked into his bar...but nothing outright struck him. “No,” he replied to Kallie's question, prying his eyes away from the even newer face to look back towards her, pushing that out of sight and out of mind...for the moment. He would be aware, the last thing he needed or wanted was for something bad to happen here, all it would take was for one incident to wind up putting him out of business, either by a bad reputation or something far worse. “Don't worry, I'll send you a text...how's that for writing?” He lastly commented before drifting off to pay attention to other people, still...occasionally looking around for this suspicious character he had felt enter the building, but otherwise...he needed to focus on the business he was running and the people who fueled it.

Having helped the lone server on the floor get a few more tables tended to and taken care of, Valen had returned to his post behind the bar, tabbing out a few people, entering some new ones in, there was a steady flow of people and cash working their way into the bar, it was almost enough to keep the demon from paying much mind to any suspicious folks. The fellow in question had ordered a drink, seemed okay in terms of speech...nothing completely crazy coming out of his mouth...like a regular guy, but he did seem to be rather...observant. Watching around the room. Valen didn't catch it, he was too busy with his own things to be watching certain people like a hawk all the time. Kallie was back at the bar though, seeming to have had a good time, which was all this place was really for...to satisfy people and give them a place to go to let loose for a little bit. While he hadn't gotten to really spent a good chunk of time with the blonde – snapping back and forth with her was more like it – Valen was relatively pleased that the place seemed to do well enough for her. Placing a simple shot on the bartop – nothing too girly for the salty bitter one – as well as the tab, Valen slid them over. “I guess I'm a little disappointed you're done so soon but...” He shrugged before being waved down at the other end of the bar. Shooting Kallie a glance, he gave her a few last words before parting. “Thanks for checking the place out.”

tagged; kallie | wearing; linked | location; bar | notes; go do your thing, he'll be around.

Template made by Raz at Valhaven

[Kallisto Motte]

She laughed at his comment about his own soul being the black one. She half wondered if he could see souls in that sense. Kallie wasn’t about to ask anything that personal in their current setting. That would be stepping into rather dangerous territory. “Well maybe, but I don’t think you’re the only one.” She teased him back with a raise of her brow. Kallie wasn’t entirely innocent, nor did she try to be. Mistakes have been made along the way. All she could do now was try to be a better person in the now.

“Must be something in the air” she joked, but relieved to see business was thriving for all in Valhaven. It could have been a good sign, Kallie remained optimistic. “Whatever it is, let’s hope it stays busy. Christmas should be good this year” she wiggled her eyebrows at him. This would be the first time for her to be celebrating christmas properly with her family. They can fully decorate the house and the business. Kallie was getting ahead of herself, but the excitement was all too real.

His answer to not knowing the newcomer didn’t concern her all that much. His reaction and the words that followed kept her on the alert. She couldn’t see what he was seeing but trusted him enough to know she should keep her wits about her. “I’ll believe it when I see it” she smirked back at him when he spoke about texting her. Patting the bar counter she pushed herself away to go and enjoy her night. Kallie didn’t really need company to do that. She found some enjoyment in solitude.

When it came time to call it a night she waited to pay off her tab. Her fingers slid into the side of her bra to pull out her card. She watched him place down a shot and smiled. Taking a quick glance at the numbers she held her card up to him for the machine. “Don’t miss me too quickly” she retorted with a little sarcasm. The fact he was disappointed because she was leaving gave her a funny feeling. Whenever he was close she’d get the same feeling. She wondered if it had something to do with what he was. “You’re welcome, it’s a pretty great place. I can see why you like it so much. I’ll see you around, Valen.” Kallie paid off her tab and gave him a nice tip on top of the sum.

Turning on her heels she walked through the bar towards the door. She didn’t need to look back to know Valen probably watched her go. Kallie focused more on putting her card away by the time she was out the door. Had she looked back, she might have spotted a familiar face slowly making their own way out of the bar. Walking down the street she could finally hear herself think.

Though it was short lived.

Feeling a sudden force hit her from behind she barely had time to react before finding herself in an alley, pinned to a wall. A vampire. Kallie could smell the overpowering musk of the man before her. Letting out a growl to warn him off her eyes flashed yellow. Before she could tell him to get the fuck off of her the teeth sunk into her neck. Sucking in air as the intense pain hit her she felt everything in her body tremble with rage. Her attempt to shove him back from her was useless. Vampires were stronger than werewolves. Probably why this one thought he could pick off one alone. She was still much stronger than an average human, he was underestimating that. Her hand came up to the back of his head, gripping a clump of his hair and pulling it back. “Hey, asshole” she growled, pulling harder. The vampire had no choice but to release her neck roughly. The amused grin on his face quickly turned to panic when her hand shot up to his chin “Say goodnight” before he had chance to react she snapped his head at an uneven angle, causing him to go limp. Slumping to the floor her hand immediately went to her neck to add pressure to the bleeding wound. Thank god her dress was black.

Kallie stood still against the wall to gather her composure. Hand still pressed tightly on the wound she was waiting for the bleeding to stop. Once that happened she could get home before anymore catch the scent of fresh blood. It might take a couple of days for a wound like this to completely heal. Faster than a human most definitely, but still annoying regardless. Catching wind of someone else she tensed up. “If you’re coming for seconds I’ve already wasted your friend” she warned loudly, the alley echoed her voice. The vampire by her feet wasn’t wasted, just unconscious until they’d recovered.

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[Valen Blackthorne]

No doubt Valen wasn't the only one with a 'black soul', but he was pretty sure that no matter what some people did in their lives...they couldn't have a dark soul like some of the others he had once associated with. Kallie was no exception, at least in his eyes. He knew nothing of her past, but he had to assume it didn't come down to murder and deception, terror and all things evil, that he highly doubted. It wasn't a serious thought to begin with, but it did give Valen something to think about. A small...almost uncomfortable laugh that escaped Valen at Kallie's words as far as a certain holiday that held absolutely zero merit from where he was from was quickly shadowed as he cleared his throat. “The more business the better.” He had to agree on that front at least.

A bit of time had passed, Valen had gotten back to work instead of giving Kallie his undivided attention, however he did keep his gaze moving around once in awhile, more for the sake of that new face that he hadn't recognized, or trusted. Any new supernatural that crossed his path did make him a bit skeptical, if anything was going to threaten his own safety within this very human town...he was going to be sure he rid of it before that ever happened. Ultimately attention briefly fell back to the blonde whom he had enjoyed bickering with anytime they were in the same room together, getting her tab taken care of as well as that final shot she had ordered, Valen couldn't really afford to stick around and chat too much – the life of a successful businessman, right? Smirking at bit at her words, he shook his head ever so slightly. “Don't flatter yourself, I probably wont even notice you left.” He teased a little bit before giving her an actual sincere thank you for checking the place out, it did seem fair and her words in return were nice as well. Giving her a small nod before she started out, he did pause a moment to watch her walk out, but then Valen went back to work, movement shifting out of the corners of his eyes even through this...rush-hour of sorts.

Something...wasn't right, he could feel it, he was good at that. Perhaps it was his real inner demon self stirring, telling him that danger and darkness was nearby, something his old self might have longed for, been attracted to, but he did well to stray from those old habits, habits he didn't...want to really think about. Regardless of his personal feelings on the matter, he was drawn to it, but not for his former purpose. The new face from earlier had disappeared out the door – and without paying, which was annoying in itself – and those weird vibes he had gotten from the man earlier were back. Ironic how he had just left the building right after Kallie – a pretty girl who was...very much alone. Or was she? That thought was concerning, and for what reason...? A frown pulled at the corners of Valen's lips as his eyes stayed locked on the doorway for a moment before he huffed a breath. “Sara...watch the bar. I need some air.”

On that note, in a quick pace, he'd slipped out the back into the alleyway behind the bar and a few other shops lined up next to it. Following his gut, or that slight darkness that was drawing him in, Valen didn't even bother to remain human for the moment, blinking his way to the following alleyway in time to catch sight of Kallie being attacked, and ultimately twisting a man's neck that would have killed a human, and he dropped to the ground. It was easy to see from this angle that she was...well...hurt. That too caused his old self to stir a bit, more out of anger than anything. It was sometimes hard to keep yourself in check, even with as much experience as he had on the matter. Obviously his presence had been noticed, but not deciphered from that of the vampire, but...there was one good thing about bearing witness to all of this. No mere human would have escaped alive like that, and no vampire would go after another vampire like that...nor was this any witch, he could sense them from a mile away if he wanted to. That left one realistic option, didn't it? Blinking once more, ending up close to Kallie as he stared down at the unconscious vampire, Valen quirked a brow. “No friend of mine, though I'm fairly certain if this poor sod had friends...you scared them off.” He wasn't even being sarcastic. Using one foot to nudge the man on the ground to ensure he wasn't getting up anytime soon, Valen had to wonder just how to assess the situation.

Blue eyes flicked back over to Kallie, now wasn't the time to start exposing her for what she was, it held not real merit here. Instead, he reached to his back pocket where a towel had been tucked just before he had left, he normally used them for wiping down the bar – this one was clean though – and without allowing her to refuse and sort of aid, he was quick to move her hand away from her wound and press the towel up and against it, a much easier way to apply pressure and stop the bleeding sooner. A frown was still present on his face, still contemplating as to what to do with the man on the ground – either allow him to flee once he came to, or end his miserable life – Valen finally brought his eyes to actually look towards Kallie. “You alright, pup?” He knew. After all the digging and dancing around they had done...he knew.

tagged; kallie | wearing; linked | location; that place | notes; c:

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[Kallisto Motte]

Kallie had come to know Valen was far older than he let on. Only demons with enough years and strength could pull off creating their own body. Valen had done just that. A rather impressive feat if Kallie could say so herself. She’d not really dived into the thought of what Valen had done to fill those former years before owning a bar. No doubt it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. As a supernatural it seemed more often than not there was some sort of history going on there. “I could drink to that” she laughed to his comment. The first year for a business was always the hardest. Kallie still had to work off the debt she’d built up from the renovations. Hopefully business would continue to improve. That was her hope at least.

She made quick work of the shot while sorting out the tab. Kallie knew her comment would have been met with something equally as sarcastic. Mocking an offended look she couldn’t hold back the small smirk from their interactions. “C’mon Valen, you’re too old not to know manners” she flashed him a wider smile as she winked back at him. Kallie loved throwing a dig or two his way, Valen took them like a pro. They seemed to bounce off one another which Kallie could never get bored of.

By the time she’d made her way home and been attacked, it was all over within a matter of minutes. Kallie was still on the offensive once she’d recognized a second was coming their way. A hue of yellow flashed in her eyes from the anger brewing beneath the surface. Simply a warning for anyone else who intended to cross her. Kallie took up a more bolder stance beside the wall, bracing herself for another attack. Her hand gripped her throat, she knew she’d be at a disadvantage but wasn’t about to let some vampire drain her. Once the person slowly came into view Kallie blinked back quickly, her eyes returning to their normal blue.

“Valen?!” she breathed out, almost confused as to why he was there. The anger ebbing away almost immediately was replaced with some relief. In that moment she couldn’t care less what he might have seen, her focus was more on the vampire unconscious on the ground beside them. Her eyes gazed down at the body beside her feet. He was just doing what his instincts told him to do, she couldn’t fault the guy for that. Though at the same time she still loathed him for targeting her. Valen moved her hand away from the injury to place a cloth onto it. Kallie didn’t get much of a chance to resist.

With his hand pressing some sort of fabric onto her neck she stared back at his face until his eyes met hers. The time gave her chance to regain some of her composure. She kept a hardened expression on her face, a mixture of emotions which she’d never quite been able to express. When he spoke again her eyebrow quirked up. “Pup?” she questioned him with a small glare, “God, I’m already missing being called New Blood.” The jig was up completely now. Valen knew she was a werewolf, his awful new pet name for her just confirmed it. The briefest of smirks rose to show she still had some sense of humor, but fell just as quickly. She lowered her head to go back to looking at the vampire.

“I’m fine.” She finally muttered back to him, Kallie felt far from fine but given the circumstances she knew she’d make it out okay. “The bleeding will stop soon, but in the meantime, we need to figure out where we’re going to put this bloodsucking dildo” The colorful words started to come out in her foul mood. She already knew she’d get no satisfaction from outright killing him. He was just doing what he was made to do. Kallie was already set on getting his body out of view, maybe in a dumpster somewhere in the alley. Her hand came up to press against the cloth and take over from Valen, she threw a small thankful look his way. Crouching down some beside the vampire she tilted her head to keep the fabric in place on her shoulder while both hands got to work on the vampire's upper arm. Snapping it from the shoulder she bent it back behind him as far as she could without the actual arm ripping off. While it served no purpose in the moment, it made her feel better knowing he’d suffer a little more. The vampire would need to push it back into place before it could heal properly once he’d awoken. Hopefully enough of a problem for him to avoid coming back to this town.

Standing up and letting out a small sigh she stared back at her handy work. “I feel better already. Just need to dump him somewhere... Would he be okay in your dumpster for the night?” Kallie had already brought up her hand back onto the fabric so she could straighten her head up while talking to Valen. She felt pretty unappealing for anyone covered in this much blood. Kallie just wanted to get home and hide away from the others in a warm bath. No doubt some of her family might have a few choice words to say when they saw her injury.

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[Valen Blackthorne]

While things back at the bar had been light, rather enjoyable, and of course there had been a few digs in each direction, Valen couldn't help the sinking feeling in his stomach. The sense of danger that was drawing him elsewhere...it was like an invitation to any demon, they circled the areas where chaos, death and danger tended to be...and it seemed there was something going on, or in the works not too far from the bar, easy enough for him to get away to check it out. Normally he strayed away from those kinds of things, not relying on his old self to direct him, but...having noticed Kallie leave, only to be shadowed by another...and then that feeling hitting him like a truck...it couldn't be helped.

A frown seemed plastered to his face as he came across the scene, the shift in eye color, the way that Kallie was able to render the vampire unconscious...he had definitely been correct in her being a supernatural. Sensing magic was what demons could do best when it came to the other races, but you couldn't quite decipher as to what the person was, at least not until you saw the mannerisms before your very eyes. Making his own presence known and getting himself close within a blink, Valen had his eyes down on the vampire, internally really wishing that the fellow on the ground was dead...it would be one less problem to worry about, after all...he might not have learned his lesson from Kallie about messing around here in Valhaven. “Surprised? The danger that radiated from here was practically an invitation for any demon...good thing I'm not just any demon...” Otherwise it would have been about a thousand times worse, creating chaos and wrecking havoc...things the evil beings were good at.

Then there was Valen, the black sheep...at least nowadays he was.

Pressing a towel up to Kallie's wound, Valen had been a bit hesitant before meeting her gaze. He knew what she was now, that was easy now that he had seen some of the mannerisms first hand, but now wasn't really the time to tease about it...aside from a cute little pet name...that he probably wouldn't use often, if ever again. It was more of a 'hey, I know now' sort of thing versus being annoying. A small smirk had replaced the obvious frown that had once been showing on his face. “Don't worry, you'll always be New Blood to me. Though...given the circumstances here...perhaps laying off the nicknames is best.” It was a bit of an ironic name, if he kept going with it...considering she had just been attacked by a vampire and all. Stepping back and allowing Kallie to take over her own wound, Valen did give her space...not wanting to invade her personal bubble too much, there was a difference between their banter and wanting to make one another irritated to situations like this.

Her colorful words pulled a half sound of amusement from the demon as he pocketed his hands and let his mind wander elsewhere, as far as what he would like to do with the floored vampire. “I'll leave that up to you.” He wasn't the one attacked, and if he had had it his way...the vampire would have been beheaded by now and left somewhere for his buddies – if there were any – as a warning to get lost. A slightly darker side, but he was a demon...so it wasn't out of character, not really. Watching in slight satisfaction as Kallie moved and made everything all the more painful for the unconscious vampire on the ground, Valen could only imagine how merciless he might have been in the situation, and he just had to hope that this guy learned his lesson...unless Valen ended up going back after all was said and done and ridding of the guy himself. Those were things he tried to get away from. “So long as I don't have anyone wandering into my bar asking why where is a body landed in my trash bin in the back...I don't care.” Besides, vampires healed up pretty quickly, this guy would probably be gone before daylight. “Do you want to...I don't know...get any of that cleaned off before you hit the streets again? The less attention you can draw would be better for the both of us, you know.” He could get some damp clothes back at the bar or something, at least enough to get the blood off of her skin, then it was probably best she return home – safely.

Hoisting their undead friend up and off the ground, Valen was anything but gentle when moving him around, to start him back towards the bar's back alleyway. A small scowl was formed on Valen's lips as he didn't bother blinking his way back for speed as far as dumping this body off, he did want to make sure Kallie was okay...and that no other threat would end up wandering in her direction. Until he was sure she was in the clear, he was going to stick around if he could. “You didn't kill him. Why?” He asked rather bluntly. He couldn't be a nice fellow all the time, and not understanding this one...well...it bothered him a little bit. 'I would have...I still could...'

tagged; kallie | wearing; linked | location; bar-area? | notes; c:

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[Kallisto Motte]

She listened to him carefully, still confused as to why he’d shown up at all. As he cleared up the confusion Kallie let out a small breath she’d been holding. She’d been bracing herself for another vampire, but having Valen arrive instead comforted her. “Great, so whenever something like this happens, it becomes like a bat signal for demons?” Her frown at the talk of other demons. Valen had been the first demon Kallie encountered who seemingly tried to go against his very nature. From what she’d seen anyway. “So what, your demon senses tingled and you came running to the rescue?” Her eyes cast down on the vampire she’d taken out alone “Little late for that.”

Even in the worst mood Kallie smirked to Valen’s comment. The nicknames weren’t really something that fazed her. She’d grown up with siblings, everything else felt like a walk in the park. “Probably best you did, I still have time to kick your ass” she idly threatened him using a lighter tone in her voice. There was a small disappointment stir when Valen moved out of her personal space. Kallie brushed it off as nothing, probably just from the adrenaline of the short confrontation. Her entire body practically buzzed with energy.

Kallie nodded to his comment at leaving her with the final decision. If Valen had been insistent about wasting the vampire she wasn’t really in any mood to argue his case. Afterall, he’d just chomped into her. He would have deserved it. Having broken the vampire's arm and straightened herself back up again she could feel herself returning to a more neutral state than what she had been previously. “Then let’s hope no one will rummage your bins tonight” she replied with a small shrug. It had been the only viable quick plan she could could come up with. It was either that or go bury him in the woods. He could dig himself out when he woke. Kallie really wasn’t in any mood to go out digging in her current attire. “Oh, yeah. If it’s not keeping you away from the bar too long. Probably a good idea” she spoke a little more shyly than normal. Kallie wasn’t really used to this sort of help outside of her pack. It was nice, just took some time to get used to.

She watched Valen lift up the body to carry. Something Kallie would have done once the bleeding had stopped. She appreciated the help, had she been alone it would have taken her far longer to clean up the mess. Glancing back to the spot where the vampire had pinned her to she looked for any signs of a struggle. Content with there being no evidence left behind she followed closely behind Valen. Even with his presence she’d still been on edge. Eyes darting around the quiet evening street to search for anymore trouble.

Valen’s question came out of nowhere, she frowned a little as she thought more on it. “Good question. I guess it comes down to second chances.” She followed Valen as they made their way into the other alley behind his bar. With some of the things Kallie had done, she could only hope someone might give her a chance if she screwed up badly enough. “He was just doing what instinct told him to do. Maybe he’ll learn from this and not be so careless, maybe not.” Stopping beside the bin she used her free arm to lift the lid for Valen. “You don’t believe people deserve second chances?” she asked curiously, he’d been pretty silent on his opinions of what they should be doing with the vampire.

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[Valen Blackthorne]

Valen had finally listened to his senses and followed to where that minor disturbance had been, approaching Kallie during the aftermath. Obviously she was not in the mood for teasing and an abundance of sarcasm, but some comments couldn't be helped - he wasn't in the best of moods all things considered, for what reason he wasn't too sure. She was fine, no one had been exposed to the human folks...attacks like this happened every day, everywhere...why this one bothered him so much. Maybe it wasn't so much as to what happened...as to who? Throwing that thought out the window for now, Valen was more focused on her well being. "Anything dark is an open invitation..." he started before letting out the tiniest of sighs. "I don't know about that, I don't like to think of myself as a 'rescuer' by any means. Though I will admit, I am a little disappointed I arrived too late." The slight frown didn't feel like it would go away, this was bothersome for some reason unknown to him.

No more nicknames for the time being, there just wasn't a mood for it from either of them it seemed, and it was understandable at least. For now there was the issue of where to plop this man, though Valen wasn't sure he was satisfied with the idea of him able to walk away from this. Perhaps that was his darker nature taking over his thoughts for the moment, but at least he wasn't contemplating inflicting actual pain or anything, torture wasn't necessary here...even if it might have been deserved. Trying to shove that away, the demon didn't really care where this vampire was dumped, so long as he was gone before daylight and no one went dumpster diving behind the bar. "Let's hope." He quietly mumbled before hoisting the vampire up, not being gentle in the slightest, he didn't actually care at this given point in time. He might have even purposely made sure the vampire smacked his head into the brick wall on the way back to the bar's back alleyway. "It's fine, the others can hold the floor for a little bit longer. The last thing you need to do is draw more trouble your way." Valen would need to just get a damp cloth and a new dry one, at least let Kallie get somewhat cleaned up before heading home. It would look odd to see a woman covered in blood heading through the streets after all.

The rather blunt question that came out of his mouth wasn't meant to sound harsh or anything, but he certainly wasn't too keen on the idea of allowing this one to walk free. Granted he had been beaten around a bit, definitely made to feel discomfort, but that didn't seem to change Valen's train of thought. He would could have killed Kallie, that didn't sit well with him. "Second chances..." He quietly repeated her words, keeping his gaze forward as they moved, mulling over her words and unsure how he felt about them. It seemed to strike a bit of a nerve when that question of second chances was rolled around back to him. He was a man hellbent on making his own second chance worth it...he knew all too well that chances weren't just handed out, and he didn't think he deserved one after all he had partaken in during the years...so it really hit home. "They do...." Valen started almost hesitantly, "how are we supposed to know if this was his second chance or not? He could have murdered hundreds of people....he targeted you the second he walked into my bar." The frown was back as he was quick to toss the vampire into the dumpster with a loud thud, only a little agitated by all of this. "Yes I believe in second chances...though not everyone deserves them. It's deciding who does and doesn't that's the hard part."

This vampire certainly didn't deserve it, but that was just Valen's opinion on the matter.

"I'll be right back." Not wanting to leave Kallie outside for too long by herself, Valen simply blinked his way inside, grabbed two towels and dampened one of them before returning outside just as quickly, moving to the blonde once more and holding out the damp cloth in exchange for the dirty bloodied one. "Are you sure you're okay?" Valen had never seen a vampire bite up close and personal, so this was a bit different, it didn't look great...and he did hold concern for Kallie...that much had to be obvious, just by his demeanor and tone alone.

tagged; kallie | wearing; linked | location; bar alleyway | notes; phone post is lame

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