Post by darkstar on Apr 20, 2006 13:17:53 GMT -5
The Setup
It's a balmy Friday night on September 5th 2059, and everyone has
gathered at Vitto's, a favorite upscale Italian restaurant you
frequent, to celebrate Monk's 36th birthday. Tank has graciously
driven everyone to the restaurant from the complex in his classy
2051 Rolls Royce Phaeton super-stretch limo, provided by his escort
business.
The Ride
Being a night for style and celebration, Monk is dressed out in his
Adonis attire. The expensive Italian, Actioneer Line, design is in
the highest fashion and is perfectly tailored. His hair is raven
black tonight, with his, natural, green eye color in place. He is
definitely playing to his Adonis persona tonight.
His mood is light and happy on the ride in the Rolls, as he hoists a
glass to the group. In his true Italian accent, "Friends, here is to
another year in the sprawl, where the ambrosia of the gods is laced
in the shadows. May we spend so many more together enjoying this
nectar."
Hellion, as usual wearing an entirely white suit, keeps quiet during
the drive to the restaurant, though he does give Monk a nod in
acknowledgement of his birthday.
Thanks to the magic provided by Star, Bang is dressed unusually nice
this evening. Although his attire is stalwart, his mood is not. His
demeanor of quiet reservation mimics his nervous posture.
Wandering Star looks statuesque elegantly in a midnight blue corset
decorated with small diamonds that twinkle in the evening light like
tiny stars. Her tailored skirt of matching silk hangs softly to her
toned calves that are accentuated by delicate heeled sandals that
tie about the ankles with silver ribbons. Her hair is in a smooth
bun, two-toned hair swirled together at the nape of her neck. She
pointedly looks everywhere but at Tank. Several times she seems to
get a faraway look in her eyes, as though she isn't really seeing
anything around her.
The Vitto Scene
Vitto's is located in the Downtown Seattle district, in a tall bank
building. The establishment takes up the entire top floor and has
it's very own elevators that only stop at the top floor. Vitto's is
a super classy establishment, devoid of any visual signs of modern
technology, although you know for a fact that this is only on the
surface. Great pains have been taken to decorate the place with an
old world Italian style and elegance long forgotten by today's
standards. Live music is played around the clock, and none of that
shitty techno-Italian garbage either. Only tradition Italian music,
played on traditional instruments, by non-cybered professionals. By
request, and usually followed up by a nice tip, the musicians will
come to your table and play your personal selections. A small wooden
dance floor butts up against the stage for those who want to get up-
close and personal with a significant other.
While the music and ambiance are exceptional, the food is world
class. You wont find any soy or stuffer food products on their menu,
no self respecting Italian would do such a dishonor to his guests.
Every dish is exquisitely hand prepared with only the freshest
ingredients. Can't find what you want on the menu? Not to worry,
there's a saying at Vitto's, "What yous want, Vitto gets.
Forgetta `bout it!" If given enough time in advance Vitto's can
obtain and prepare just about anything you want, including non-
consumables.
Vitto's is one of the few places a Runner can go and feel completely
relaxed, if that's entirely possible. Its what people in the biz
call "neutral territory". Those enjoying Vitto's hospitality are
strictly off limits for elimination, capture or arrest by anyone and
Vitto's goes to great lengths to insure none of that happens. This
makes Vitto's a popular place to acquire and conduct business of the
shadowy nature. Each table has a white noise generator that is
hidden in the center of the table and accessible by a
pressurized "pup-up" mechanism, which also contains a credstick
verification and fund transfer system. If more privacy is required,
Vitto's has several private rooms that can be used to conduct
business safely. As one would expect, all of these accommodations do
not come cheaply. A typical meal, including drink and tip at Vitto's
could easily run upwards to 2,000Y per person.
Normally at the door checking in quests, is Little Joey. Joey is
located in the basement parking area (also private from the main
parking area), where secured lockers are available for any items
people want to leave behind or unable to take inside the restaurant.
Joey's nickname betrays his true form, a human stuck in a massive
troll's body. Joey could be classified as a "gentle giant", friendly
and always quick with a witty response or joke to try and diffuse
any hostile situation that may arise rather then let it come to
blows. `Ha! Yous almost got that by me didn't ya little guy. You
shifty guy yous. C'mon hand it over tough guy,' would be the typical
response from Little Joey. The basic rule of thumb at Vitto's is if
you can conceal it, you can carry it in, unless it's some type of
insinerary device. Joey has access to metal detectors and cyber
scanners. Normally cyber restraints are never asked of the guests
unless the person has cyberware that is particularly dangerous (i.e.
cerebral bomb).
First to reach the door to Vitto's, Chain steps up to Little Joey
and raises both arms out to his side. Doing so, he pulls open his
trendy black Securetech long coat, exposing just the tip end of a
pistol grip hanging in a shoulder holster. Black leather pants,
tight-fitting black t-shirt, and polished black biker boots round
out the outfit. His hair is freshly shaved close to the scalp. A
silver chain with a star symbol talisman hangs around his
neck. "Joey". Chain's lopsided smile somehow fails to reach his eyes.
Joey looks to the mostly concealed gun and grins back, "Yous ok,
head on in."
At the entrance to the elevator, Little Joey looks at Adonis (a.k.a.
Monk) and nods, knowingly. Being true Italian in this place has its
privileges.
Wandering Star steps gracefully forward with a polite yet firm stare
at Joey that says `Look but do not touch' before she steps past him.
Joey gives a familiar smile to Star, "Good evening Miss. Star." Then
makes a polite hand gesture after she has already passed by.
Bang floats through easily, Joey nodding with a gentle smile as he
passes by, just a step behind Wandering Star.
As Hellion approaches in his bright white suit, Little Joey
smiles. "Welcome to the island Mr. Montoban." Joey chuckles at his
own private joke, something he says every time he has greeted
Hellion. Hellion nods with out expression as he pauses momentarily
with his jacket displayed open. "Yous ok," Joey adds.
Ashi exits the limousine after all others have left the cabin.
Moving slowly and with a calming sense of ease, he stands and places
his hands inside the slightly oversized cuffs of his obviously
Japanese suit. As he walks, the loose fitting gray silk waves like
water, casting subtle reflections of the incident light. As his turn
comes for Joey's inspection, Ashi slowly removes his hands from his
sleeves and turns his open palms upright. Those in the group know
that the small bulge, now visible, under the silk covering his left
arm is a monowhip. Joey acknowledges the draped item with a nod and
says, "Good to sees yous again. Iz's been too long," with a pat on
Ashi's shoulder.
Ashi replies with his measured words tainted by an ever-present
Japanese accent, "Yes my friend. But you know, no thing could keep
me away for long." Joey smiles and presents the elevators.
Tank is wearing a fine suit, neat, trimmed and in perfect condition.
His stylish Securetech long coat covers his Salvalette guardian
concealed in a shoulder holster. Last through of the main group, he
greets Joey with a familiar nod, then moves quietly past, knowing
Joey missed nothing. Joey nods back and goes about surveying his
security systems.
Arriving only minutes behind the main group, Tortuga, having driven
himself, approaches Little Joey with a friendly smile. With his
usual sense of style, Tortuga is underdressed in dungarees, a white
shirt and his leather jacket. Joey returns the gesture and points
towards the elevators.
The Birthday Scene
As everyone arrives at the table, Star chooses a seat between Bang
and Monk. She delicately picks at the food, sampling everything but
not consuming much other than the expensive vodka. She tries,
unsuccessfully, to ignore Tortuga's manners. Bang remains quiet, as
he listens to the conversations at the table.
Everyone is in the final stretch of completing a fine meal, complete
with a specially prepared desert called Mazzoli Tortoni, a frozen
custard with toasted coconut and almond flavor, a touch of bisque,
topped with a cookie dust. The head chief brought out the desert
personally to your table for the birthday boy and his guests, and
proudly explained that the Tortoni was a classic Italian recipe
originating in ancient Rome. He proudly boasted that the desert was
exclusively served to emperors and nobles long ago, and did not
become widely available in Europe until well into the 16th century,
and then finally was brought to this country by European chefs.
After the desert is brought, Monk says, "I think, tonight, I will
spend the evening on my yacht under the stars. Anyone game for an
evening of leisure and relaxation?", smiling winningly.
Star returns the smile, "We did not know you appreciated the stars
so."
Ashi stands to face Monk and says "Before I accept your most
generous offer, please allow me to honor you on the day of your
birth." Reaching in to his jacket he removes a small gold trimmed
scroll. Unrolling the delicate white paper allows the light to
reveal deep red Japanese Calligraphy. With a very straight face,
Ashi begins to speak…
In the night of long
With a face of change
Through the passing of time
For cause unnamed
All who knew
Would always remain
No loss of moment
No loss of fame
No loss of heart
No loss of name
All who knew
Would always remain
In memory of might
With glory unnamed
Through path of friendship
For love of the same
All who knew
Would always remain
Facing Monk, Ashi bows and presents him with the scroll, now rolled
back up. Upon sitting down Ashi exclaims, " A night of leisure and
relaxation under the stars would be most settling."
A moment later your waiter returns to your table, with a cotton
white towel draped over his serving arm and refreshes your drinks.
As he pours he nods and says, "Madam...sirs, I'm happy to report
that Mr. Braxton," He turns his attention to Monk, nods, smiles and
continues, "as a gift you Mr. Corso, is treating everyone to dinner
and drinks this evening." The waiter sets the bottle of wine down
and pushes the center of the table, popping up the console and
inserts a credstick into the machine then punches a few
buttons. "Mr. Braxton would also very much like for you to join him
for brandy and cigars in the Venetian room at your convenience." Not
looking at anyone in particular, Dominic says, "May I get anyone
anything while I am here?"
With a smile Tortuga chimes in, "Yeah, you could get me another
beer, my friend, while your here. And since he's buying dinner why
don't you bring us some of that coffee thing with the cookies in it.
What is that called, Tira... Tir... you know that cookie thing."
Tortuga pushes the Mazzoli Tortoni toward the center of the table
after only one bite.
The waiter nods and smiles broadly, but not in a condescending way,
then in a cheerful tone, "Tiramisu. Yes sir, an excellent choice. A
personal favorite of mine sir..." Placing his hand on his chest he
bows slightly before continuing, "...if I can be so bold to say so,
sir." Clasping his hands together in front of him, the white towel
still neatly in place on his arm, Dominic adds, "A beer and a
Tiramisu for the gentleman. Anyone else?"
"Another vodka would be vunderful Dominic," Wandering Star replies
in her deep Slavic accent.
Dominic's eyes light up and nods, "Yes but of course madam."
"Saki," Hellion replies flatly.
Dominic's smile momentarily leaves his face, and appears to be
caught off guard and a tad nervous. "Mr. Hellion my sincere
apologies sir, but we normally do not stock saki unless arranged for
in advance." Dominic regains his composure and smiles before
continuing, "However, I would be happy to put in a special order in
for you sir."
Behind Dominic a heavyset man dressed in a fine Italian silk suit
approaches, all five feet of him, if that. If it weren't for his
short stature, he could probably give Tortuga a run for his money in
girth, most likely the result of too many servings of Tiramisu. You
recognize him as Angelo, the night manager of Vitto's. He politely
nods towards the group, then fixates his gaze upon Dominic, who
stiffens up, his nervousness returning instantly. "Is there a
problem Dominic?" Angelo says calmly with a heavy Italian accent,
yet in perfect English.
Dominic faces Angelo eye to eye before responding, "No sir. I was
just explaining to Mr. Hellion that saki is a special order item,
and..."
Angelo cuts Dominic off, "I don't see the problem. If Mr. Hellion
wants saki, then get him saki. See to it now Dominic."
With an uncharacteristic look of longing, Ashi asks, "Dominic, would
you make that two?"
Angelo nods to Ashi then turns towards Dominic, "Just get them a
fresh bottle Dominic."
Dominic nods. "Yes sir, right away sir," then shuffles off hurriedly.
Angelo turns towards the group, his attention on Hellion. "I'm
deeply sorry Mr. Hellion. Dominic is a good kid and means well, he
just has some things to learn about business." Angelo smiles and
nods in agreement to his own statement. "Your saki will arrive
shortly Mr. Hellion...on the house of course." Angelo smiles then
turns his attention on Wandering Star, reaching out to kiss her
hand. "Might I say you look particularly stunning this evening Miss.
Star. Simply stunning."
"Thank you Angelo. Perhaps in the future you will keep saki on hand
for us. Several of us are quite fond of it," Star replies.
With Star's hand still in his, he puts his other on top of hers
gently. "That I will Lady Star, absolutely," nodding his head in
agreement. "In fact I will keep two bottles on hand at all times...
with just your name on them." He smiles broadly with a wink.
The large man nods, "Now, please enjoy the rest of your evening."
Angelo excuses himself and continues his tour of the guests.
After Dominic and Angelo depart, Adonis reaches to the center of the
table and depresses the white noise generator. As the tell-tale hum
fades into the background, he chuckles and says to the group, "What
a wonderful present someone arranged for me..."
Cutting Adonis off, Tortuga pipes up. "Man, quit tryin' to get the
poor guy in trouble. He already has to deal with us, now you gotta
go and have the ganas for something that is not even on the menu.
Where do you think we are, Chinatown, you don't get saki with
Tiramiwhatsit," Tortuga says with a hint of abhor evident in his
voice.
"If the peasant boy gets in trouble, it's because he is not
adequately prepared. Next time, perhaps, he will be ready for the
unexpected. As to my saki, Tortuga-san, it may not go with tiramisu,
but it is infinitely more cultured than that peasant swill you
poison yourself with," Hellion quips back, returning the distaste
that they respectfully feel towards one another.
"Like brandy and cigars, saki is good after any meal," Ashi adds as
a college professor would instruct his students.
Chain glances from Tortuga to Hellion with a wry smile. The
sarcastic humor is evident on his face as he speaks. "It's certainly
a testament to this restaurant's unique atmosphere that
the two of you can both enter and enjoy drinks at the same table. A
toast, to Vitto's!" Chain lifts his glass with an amusing flair
before sipping from his wine once more.
Tortuga replies dryly, "Your prolly right, esse. I'll drink to that.
And I'll go to the Gap and get me a gringo shirt tomorrow."
Tank raises his glass in salute and then takes a deep drink,
draining the glass.
Chain casually finishes his meal and sips a glass of red wine. He
has been quite the majority of the night, only lightly joining into
the table's conversations. "It's your party Monk. If you're ready to
wrap things up here I say let's see what Braxton wants. The meal and
drinks were worth a few
minutes of our time at least."
"Striving to stay with the nostalgic atmosphere, Mr. Braxton may be
honoring past customs with the invitation to the Venetian room.
Unlikely as that may be," Ashi adds.
"Well, this gringo's got my attention, but I don't know that I like
business at a party." Tortuga looks at Monk, "This is business
right? You didn't get down with this guy's daughter and now he wants
you to marry her, or some bullshit like that, is it?"
Finishing off his Mazzoli Tortoni, Tank reaches in and turns off the
safety on his weapon. He looks up and questions, "Business and
pleasure don't mix well often. Anyone know this Braxton fellow?"
"No we do not. But perhaps it is best if you do not meet him for the
first time with your guns blazing like some American cowboy. He
might take offense."
Looking directly at Wandering Star, he smiles. "Cowboy I am not, but
prepared I will stay. Surprises weren't on the menu and he's
crashing our party." Turning to Monk, he nods in apparent apology.
"I'm up for talking to the guy, but lets not ruin Monk's birthday by
working too much is all I'm saying." Then, with a smile, "You need
to get yourself a hat, caballero, then all you would need is chaps
and a horse."
"I must agree on both counts…and might I suggest a bolo, with
inlayed turquoise." Ashi adds, with a completely straight face.
Ashi then excuses himself from the table to briefly talk with Angelo.
Dominic manages to make good on all the promises that were made,
everyone receiving their desired drinks and deserts. In addition, in
an apologetic gesture, Dominic also brings an extra bottle of saki
to the table for the group to take home. Moments later Ashi returns
and retakes his seat at the table.
Just as Dominic is about to excuse himself, "Molto Buono, Dominic."
Adonis smiles at the excellent and discreet waiter. "Grazie." He
lifts his glass and nods, "Please inform Mr. Braxton we will gladly
partake of his hospitality."
Dominic returns the smile and gives a shallow bow towards
Monk. "Benvenuto Mr. Carso. I shall inform him right away sir."
Dominic excuses himself and leaves.
Finishing his drink among the conversation, Monk stands and
says, "Shall we go enjoy Mr. Braxton's brandy?"
It's a balmy Friday night on September 5th 2059, and everyone has
gathered at Vitto's, a favorite upscale Italian restaurant you
frequent, to celebrate Monk's 36th birthday. Tank has graciously
driven everyone to the restaurant from the complex in his classy
2051 Rolls Royce Phaeton super-stretch limo, provided by his escort
business.
The Ride
Being a night for style and celebration, Monk is dressed out in his
Adonis attire. The expensive Italian, Actioneer Line, design is in
the highest fashion and is perfectly tailored. His hair is raven
black tonight, with his, natural, green eye color in place. He is
definitely playing to his Adonis persona tonight.
His mood is light and happy on the ride in the Rolls, as he hoists a
glass to the group. In his true Italian accent, "Friends, here is to
another year in the sprawl, where the ambrosia of the gods is laced
in the shadows. May we spend so many more together enjoying this
nectar."
Hellion, as usual wearing an entirely white suit, keeps quiet during
the drive to the restaurant, though he does give Monk a nod in
acknowledgement of his birthday.
Thanks to the magic provided by Star, Bang is dressed unusually nice
this evening. Although his attire is stalwart, his mood is not. His
demeanor of quiet reservation mimics his nervous posture.
Wandering Star looks statuesque elegantly in a midnight blue corset
decorated with small diamonds that twinkle in the evening light like
tiny stars. Her tailored skirt of matching silk hangs softly to her
toned calves that are accentuated by delicate heeled sandals that
tie about the ankles with silver ribbons. Her hair is in a smooth
bun, two-toned hair swirled together at the nape of her neck. She
pointedly looks everywhere but at Tank. Several times she seems to
get a faraway look in her eyes, as though she isn't really seeing
anything around her.
The Vitto Scene
Vitto's is located in the Downtown Seattle district, in a tall bank
building. The establishment takes up the entire top floor and has
it's very own elevators that only stop at the top floor. Vitto's is
a super classy establishment, devoid of any visual signs of modern
technology, although you know for a fact that this is only on the
surface. Great pains have been taken to decorate the place with an
old world Italian style and elegance long forgotten by today's
standards. Live music is played around the clock, and none of that
shitty techno-Italian garbage either. Only tradition Italian music,
played on traditional instruments, by non-cybered professionals. By
request, and usually followed up by a nice tip, the musicians will
come to your table and play your personal selections. A small wooden
dance floor butts up against the stage for those who want to get up-
close and personal with a significant other.
While the music and ambiance are exceptional, the food is world
class. You wont find any soy or stuffer food products on their menu,
no self respecting Italian would do such a dishonor to his guests.
Every dish is exquisitely hand prepared with only the freshest
ingredients. Can't find what you want on the menu? Not to worry,
there's a saying at Vitto's, "What yous want, Vitto gets.
Forgetta `bout it!" If given enough time in advance Vitto's can
obtain and prepare just about anything you want, including non-
consumables.
Vitto's is one of the few places a Runner can go and feel completely
relaxed, if that's entirely possible. Its what people in the biz
call "neutral territory". Those enjoying Vitto's hospitality are
strictly off limits for elimination, capture or arrest by anyone and
Vitto's goes to great lengths to insure none of that happens. This
makes Vitto's a popular place to acquire and conduct business of the
shadowy nature. Each table has a white noise generator that is
hidden in the center of the table and accessible by a
pressurized "pup-up" mechanism, which also contains a credstick
verification and fund transfer system. If more privacy is required,
Vitto's has several private rooms that can be used to conduct
business safely. As one would expect, all of these accommodations do
not come cheaply. A typical meal, including drink and tip at Vitto's
could easily run upwards to 2,000Y per person.
Normally at the door checking in quests, is Little Joey. Joey is
located in the basement parking area (also private from the main
parking area), where secured lockers are available for any items
people want to leave behind or unable to take inside the restaurant.
Joey's nickname betrays his true form, a human stuck in a massive
troll's body. Joey could be classified as a "gentle giant", friendly
and always quick with a witty response or joke to try and diffuse
any hostile situation that may arise rather then let it come to
blows. `Ha! Yous almost got that by me didn't ya little guy. You
shifty guy yous. C'mon hand it over tough guy,' would be the typical
response from Little Joey. The basic rule of thumb at Vitto's is if
you can conceal it, you can carry it in, unless it's some type of
insinerary device. Joey has access to metal detectors and cyber
scanners. Normally cyber restraints are never asked of the guests
unless the person has cyberware that is particularly dangerous (i.e.
cerebral bomb).
First to reach the door to Vitto's, Chain steps up to Little Joey
and raises both arms out to his side. Doing so, he pulls open his
trendy black Securetech long coat, exposing just the tip end of a
pistol grip hanging in a shoulder holster. Black leather pants,
tight-fitting black t-shirt, and polished black biker boots round
out the outfit. His hair is freshly shaved close to the scalp. A
silver chain with a star symbol talisman hangs around his
neck. "Joey". Chain's lopsided smile somehow fails to reach his eyes.
Joey looks to the mostly concealed gun and grins back, "Yous ok,
head on in."
At the entrance to the elevator, Little Joey looks at Adonis (a.k.a.
Monk) and nods, knowingly. Being true Italian in this place has its
privileges.
Wandering Star steps gracefully forward with a polite yet firm stare
at Joey that says `Look but do not touch' before she steps past him.
Joey gives a familiar smile to Star, "Good evening Miss. Star." Then
makes a polite hand gesture after she has already passed by.
Bang floats through easily, Joey nodding with a gentle smile as he
passes by, just a step behind Wandering Star.
As Hellion approaches in his bright white suit, Little Joey
smiles. "Welcome to the island Mr. Montoban." Joey chuckles at his
own private joke, something he says every time he has greeted
Hellion. Hellion nods with out expression as he pauses momentarily
with his jacket displayed open. "Yous ok," Joey adds.
Ashi exits the limousine after all others have left the cabin.
Moving slowly and with a calming sense of ease, he stands and places
his hands inside the slightly oversized cuffs of his obviously
Japanese suit. As he walks, the loose fitting gray silk waves like
water, casting subtle reflections of the incident light. As his turn
comes for Joey's inspection, Ashi slowly removes his hands from his
sleeves and turns his open palms upright. Those in the group know
that the small bulge, now visible, under the silk covering his left
arm is a monowhip. Joey acknowledges the draped item with a nod and
says, "Good to sees yous again. Iz's been too long," with a pat on
Ashi's shoulder.
Ashi replies with his measured words tainted by an ever-present
Japanese accent, "Yes my friend. But you know, no thing could keep
me away for long." Joey smiles and presents the elevators.
Tank is wearing a fine suit, neat, trimmed and in perfect condition.
His stylish Securetech long coat covers his Salvalette guardian
concealed in a shoulder holster. Last through of the main group, he
greets Joey with a familiar nod, then moves quietly past, knowing
Joey missed nothing. Joey nods back and goes about surveying his
security systems.
Arriving only minutes behind the main group, Tortuga, having driven
himself, approaches Little Joey with a friendly smile. With his
usual sense of style, Tortuga is underdressed in dungarees, a white
shirt and his leather jacket. Joey returns the gesture and points
towards the elevators.
The Birthday Scene
As everyone arrives at the table, Star chooses a seat between Bang
and Monk. She delicately picks at the food, sampling everything but
not consuming much other than the expensive vodka. She tries,
unsuccessfully, to ignore Tortuga's manners. Bang remains quiet, as
he listens to the conversations at the table.
Everyone is in the final stretch of completing a fine meal, complete
with a specially prepared desert called Mazzoli Tortoni, a frozen
custard with toasted coconut and almond flavor, a touch of bisque,
topped with a cookie dust. The head chief brought out the desert
personally to your table for the birthday boy and his guests, and
proudly explained that the Tortoni was a classic Italian recipe
originating in ancient Rome. He proudly boasted that the desert was
exclusively served to emperors and nobles long ago, and did not
become widely available in Europe until well into the 16th century,
and then finally was brought to this country by European chefs.
After the desert is brought, Monk says, "I think, tonight, I will
spend the evening on my yacht under the stars. Anyone game for an
evening of leisure and relaxation?", smiling winningly.
Star returns the smile, "We did not know you appreciated the stars
so."
Ashi stands to face Monk and says "Before I accept your most
generous offer, please allow me to honor you on the day of your
birth." Reaching in to his jacket he removes a small gold trimmed
scroll. Unrolling the delicate white paper allows the light to
reveal deep red Japanese Calligraphy. With a very straight face,
Ashi begins to speak…
In the night of long
With a face of change
Through the passing of time
For cause unnamed
All who knew
Would always remain
No loss of moment
No loss of fame
No loss of heart
No loss of name
All who knew
Would always remain
In memory of might
With glory unnamed
Through path of friendship
For love of the same
All who knew
Would always remain
Facing Monk, Ashi bows and presents him with the scroll, now rolled
back up. Upon sitting down Ashi exclaims, " A night of leisure and
relaxation under the stars would be most settling."
A moment later your waiter returns to your table, with a cotton
white towel draped over his serving arm and refreshes your drinks.
As he pours he nods and says, "Madam...sirs, I'm happy to report
that Mr. Braxton," He turns his attention to Monk, nods, smiles and
continues, "as a gift you Mr. Corso, is treating everyone to dinner
and drinks this evening." The waiter sets the bottle of wine down
and pushes the center of the table, popping up the console and
inserts a credstick into the machine then punches a few
buttons. "Mr. Braxton would also very much like for you to join him
for brandy and cigars in the Venetian room at your convenience." Not
looking at anyone in particular, Dominic says, "May I get anyone
anything while I am here?"
With a smile Tortuga chimes in, "Yeah, you could get me another
beer, my friend, while your here. And since he's buying dinner why
don't you bring us some of that coffee thing with the cookies in it.
What is that called, Tira... Tir... you know that cookie thing."
Tortuga pushes the Mazzoli Tortoni toward the center of the table
after only one bite.
The waiter nods and smiles broadly, but not in a condescending way,
then in a cheerful tone, "Tiramisu. Yes sir, an excellent choice. A
personal favorite of mine sir..." Placing his hand on his chest he
bows slightly before continuing, "...if I can be so bold to say so,
sir." Clasping his hands together in front of him, the white towel
still neatly in place on his arm, Dominic adds, "A beer and a
Tiramisu for the gentleman. Anyone else?"
"Another vodka would be vunderful Dominic," Wandering Star replies
in her deep Slavic accent.
Dominic's eyes light up and nods, "Yes but of course madam."
"Saki," Hellion replies flatly.
Dominic's smile momentarily leaves his face, and appears to be
caught off guard and a tad nervous. "Mr. Hellion my sincere
apologies sir, but we normally do not stock saki unless arranged for
in advance." Dominic regains his composure and smiles before
continuing, "However, I would be happy to put in a special order in
for you sir."
Behind Dominic a heavyset man dressed in a fine Italian silk suit
approaches, all five feet of him, if that. If it weren't for his
short stature, he could probably give Tortuga a run for his money in
girth, most likely the result of too many servings of Tiramisu. You
recognize him as Angelo, the night manager of Vitto's. He politely
nods towards the group, then fixates his gaze upon Dominic, who
stiffens up, his nervousness returning instantly. "Is there a
problem Dominic?" Angelo says calmly with a heavy Italian accent,
yet in perfect English.
Dominic faces Angelo eye to eye before responding, "No sir. I was
just explaining to Mr. Hellion that saki is a special order item,
and..."
Angelo cuts Dominic off, "I don't see the problem. If Mr. Hellion
wants saki, then get him saki. See to it now Dominic."
With an uncharacteristic look of longing, Ashi asks, "Dominic, would
you make that two?"
Angelo nods to Ashi then turns towards Dominic, "Just get them a
fresh bottle Dominic."
Dominic nods. "Yes sir, right away sir," then shuffles off hurriedly.
Angelo turns towards the group, his attention on Hellion. "I'm
deeply sorry Mr. Hellion. Dominic is a good kid and means well, he
just has some things to learn about business." Angelo smiles and
nods in agreement to his own statement. "Your saki will arrive
shortly Mr. Hellion...on the house of course." Angelo smiles then
turns his attention on Wandering Star, reaching out to kiss her
hand. "Might I say you look particularly stunning this evening Miss.
Star. Simply stunning."
"Thank you Angelo. Perhaps in the future you will keep saki on hand
for us. Several of us are quite fond of it," Star replies.
With Star's hand still in his, he puts his other on top of hers
gently. "That I will Lady Star, absolutely," nodding his head in
agreement. "In fact I will keep two bottles on hand at all times...
with just your name on them." He smiles broadly with a wink.
The large man nods, "Now, please enjoy the rest of your evening."
Angelo excuses himself and continues his tour of the guests.
After Dominic and Angelo depart, Adonis reaches to the center of the
table and depresses the white noise generator. As the tell-tale hum
fades into the background, he chuckles and says to the group, "What
a wonderful present someone arranged for me..."
Cutting Adonis off, Tortuga pipes up. "Man, quit tryin' to get the
poor guy in trouble. He already has to deal with us, now you gotta
go and have the ganas for something that is not even on the menu.
Where do you think we are, Chinatown, you don't get saki with
Tiramiwhatsit," Tortuga says with a hint of abhor evident in his
voice.
"If the peasant boy gets in trouble, it's because he is not
adequately prepared. Next time, perhaps, he will be ready for the
unexpected. As to my saki, Tortuga-san, it may not go with tiramisu,
but it is infinitely more cultured than that peasant swill you
poison yourself with," Hellion quips back, returning the distaste
that they respectfully feel towards one another.
"Like brandy and cigars, saki is good after any meal," Ashi adds as
a college professor would instruct his students.
Chain glances from Tortuga to Hellion with a wry smile. The
sarcastic humor is evident on his face as he speaks. "It's certainly
a testament to this restaurant's unique atmosphere that
the two of you can both enter and enjoy drinks at the same table. A
toast, to Vitto's!" Chain lifts his glass with an amusing flair
before sipping from his wine once more.
Tortuga replies dryly, "Your prolly right, esse. I'll drink to that.
And I'll go to the Gap and get me a gringo shirt tomorrow."
Tank raises his glass in salute and then takes a deep drink,
draining the glass.
Chain casually finishes his meal and sips a glass of red wine. He
has been quite the majority of the night, only lightly joining into
the table's conversations. "It's your party Monk. If you're ready to
wrap things up here I say let's see what Braxton wants. The meal and
drinks were worth a few
minutes of our time at least."
"Striving to stay with the nostalgic atmosphere, Mr. Braxton may be
honoring past customs with the invitation to the Venetian room.
Unlikely as that may be," Ashi adds.
"Well, this gringo's got my attention, but I don't know that I like
business at a party." Tortuga looks at Monk, "This is business
right? You didn't get down with this guy's daughter and now he wants
you to marry her, or some bullshit like that, is it?"
Finishing off his Mazzoli Tortoni, Tank reaches in and turns off the
safety on his weapon. He looks up and questions, "Business and
pleasure don't mix well often. Anyone know this Braxton fellow?"
"No we do not. But perhaps it is best if you do not meet him for the
first time with your guns blazing like some American cowboy. He
might take offense."
Looking directly at Wandering Star, he smiles. "Cowboy I am not, but
prepared I will stay. Surprises weren't on the menu and he's
crashing our party." Turning to Monk, he nods in apparent apology.
"I'm up for talking to the guy, but lets not ruin Monk's birthday by
working too much is all I'm saying." Then, with a smile, "You need
to get yourself a hat, caballero, then all you would need is chaps
and a horse."
"I must agree on both counts…and might I suggest a bolo, with
inlayed turquoise." Ashi adds, with a completely straight face.
Ashi then excuses himself from the table to briefly talk with Angelo.
Dominic manages to make good on all the promises that were made,
everyone receiving their desired drinks and deserts. In addition, in
an apologetic gesture, Dominic also brings an extra bottle of saki
to the table for the group to take home. Moments later Ashi returns
and retakes his seat at the table.
Just as Dominic is about to excuse himself, "Molto Buono, Dominic."
Adonis smiles at the excellent and discreet waiter. "Grazie." He
lifts his glass and nods, "Please inform Mr. Braxton we will gladly
partake of his hospitality."
Dominic returns the smile and gives a shallow bow towards
Monk. "Benvenuto Mr. Carso. I shall inform him right away sir."
Dominic excuses himself and leaves.
Finishing his drink among the conversation, Monk stands and
says, "Shall we go enjoy Mr. Braxton's brandy?"