Oil and Water [Private]

[Hecatus]

The sun had long settled beyond the horizon as the young man proceeded to exit from within the ominously looming maw of Konoha’s underground highway. Feet dragging heavily with each passing step, the figure shuffled slowly down the abandoned streets under what little cover was provided beneath the starry night. Though originally heading home with thoughts only filled of dreaming the night away, a deep and profound rumbling that was so core shatteringly devastating echoed from the lad’s stomach. Given the time of day, very few establishments remained open save for the occasional ramen stand and higher end facilities tailored towards youths squandering their nights (and money) away.

Siding more on the frugal side of things, Jack had obviously chosen the first option. Lifting up the cloth curtains which draped across the front of the stall, he’d then occupy the seat second from the left of the four in total. The stall itself was abandoned save for the enticing aromas that wafted from behind the counter and a wizened old man far into his years. Giving a broad grin of familiarity to the shop keeper, Jack reached for the menu outstretched by the man before settling himself in. “Business still holding strong old man?” He’d ask this line casually while pursuing down a list of appetizers, only to fold the menu shortly thereafter. “Yeah sure. My wallet’s always filled – just like my seat bouzu.” He’d motion to the row of empty chairs with a rough laugh before continuing on. “The usual I take it?” Despite his senior’s words, Jack held little concern for the man’s business prosperity. After all, the night crowd had always been scarce. Had this man truly been in the red he wouldn’t have been open through all these years.

“Yeah - the usual please.” Having become a frequent visitor of the establishment, the dark haired lad nodded in affirmation of the man’s prediction before settling more so into his seat. Though the food here took a bit longer to prepare, the taste and quality were always worth the wait.

addy-hime ♥

[addy-hime ♥]

Food, glorious fooood~ Being the wife of the Hokage came with certain perks, such as gourmet dinners and decadent desserts, but that lifestyle could be tiresome. Every now and then I found myself stuck in a rut with nothing to do, no one to speak to, and a fierce craving for the days of my youth. Instead of brooding in the dark recesses of my bedroom, I had taken to disguising myself with a simple jutsu and exploring Konoha with fresh eyes. Nearly everyone disliked Youka, or else avoided her for fear of angering Asato in some way, but no one had a reason to be cruel to the brown-haired beauty I molded. No one would bat an eye at a teenager getting a bowl of Ramen instead of a full-course meal. Look different, feel different, act different. As Kaoru I could have any personality I desired, not unlike enacting a fantasy or playing a role. I smiled at the woman who whisked passed me on her way somewhere; I saw her shocked expression, as if she were trying to figure out whether she knew me so as to respond properly. I laughed into my hand and turned into the entrance of the shop, immediately distracted by the delightful scent of cooking broth. My gaze swept over the interior briefly - no, wait, not so briefly. Was that..? I tilted my head as recognition dawned upon me, for the only other patron of this particular stand I happened to be familiar with. I paused in the entrance way to collect my thoughts, unsure if it would be wise to eat here given this sad twist of fate. No! I couldn't let his bad attitude ruin my night! I slid into the seat one away from him. "Owner, are you here~? I've come back again tonight." TAGGED: Hecatus

[Hecatus]

As the curtains parted, a single figure passed through and drew a curious glance from the lad. Though the night goers weren’t so scarce as to say her presence was unexpected, she’d still catch the dark haired youth off guard. Having frequently this establishment more than he’d like to admit, it was safe to say that Jack had become relatively acquainted with a majority of the afterhours crowd. This woman however was unfamiliar. Between her flowing brown locks and radiant green orbs, it was safe to say that the two had not met before, or so he’d believe. That look in her eyes however suggested something else. Perhaps he had stumbled across her path many moons ago without the realization of such.

Either way, their gazes locked for only a brief period of time. “Ah, Kaoru-chan! Welcome back little missy!” The old man’s voice chimed in, causing Jack to break off his stare first. Coughing once to clear his throat, he’d offer her the menu he had in hand. “Have at it. I already ordered.” Though still strangers, one thing had always held true for the shinobi in all his years of coming here. The old man’s favorite customers were all decent people. With this cardinal rule in mind, Jack’s guard had already begun slipping bit by bit. Shoulders sagging a bit out of relief, he’d lean forward atop the counter space to rest before addressing the old man once more. “On second thought gramps, let me get the minis to go for later.” Though his words were most likely confusing to the woman at his right, the shop keep nodded understandingly before resuming his work. After all, this wasn’t the first time Jack had made such a request.

As for now, he’d remain silent while giving the teenager an opportunity to place her order. Unsure of her personality, it was a safer bet to allow the woman to be. After all, not all of the night crowd was looking to talk. Some legitimately appeared for a bit of peace and quiet with some damn good noodles on the side.

addy-hime ♥

[Hecatus]

/exit

[Axcel]

+18 EXP Hecatus

+8 EXP Addy