Kiryu Kazuma (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
tigerdrop) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
gonnawinagain2021-06-09 11:18 am
tigerdrop) wrote in gonnawinagain2021-06-09 11:18 am
Entry tags:
Come and let me in
The players: Kiryu and Majima
The scenario: Mr. K comes to visit Mr. M for the first time. How's that investment of mine going, buddy?
The setting: Early 1988, Sotenbori, the Sunshine Cabaret Club.
Any warnings: None to start.
Kiryu wasn't really sure what to expect from his coming here. It certainly was a spur of the moment whim when he'd decided to head off to Sotenbori and check out this 'Club Sunshine' he had been putting investments into. He just needed to get away from all the trouble he seemed to attract for a little while. Not that he was using that excuse to explain the sudden business trip--for that, he reasoned, he was interested in this investment and how it was going. That was his excuse for the unexpected trip should anyone ask.
He was interested in the place. He hadn't heard much, Mr. Moneybags liked to keep the details to himself, and that was fine. The reasoning had been enough to convince Kiryu it was fine the first time around and he wouldn't question that now. But his curiosity only grew the more he thought about it. Mr. Moneybags didn't need to know what he was doing right now. What would it really hurt anyway? He was just going to go in, check the place out, relax a little if he could, and then head back home at the end of the day. No harm done.
That was the plan anyway. He wasn't sure what the place was supposed to be but he was from Kamurocho, there wasn't much that could surprise him in regards to entertainment. When he walked in he noted how cozy it was. It had an air of luxury to it but not ostentatiously so and the smaller room made it more cozy rather than grandiose as the larger cabarets did. He had to admit, he sort of liked it. And, as he would discover after he was seated, it had a more intimate feel to it which he was less certain how that made him feel just yet.
But first he had to get a seat. He made these first few observations as he waited patiently in the foyer to be seated. He rarely came to these sorts of places on his own, especially for personal reasons, so he was admittedly a little nervous. Not that it showed on his determinedly stoic face as he peered curiously about the place.
Idly, he wondered if Mr. M was here today, and what he might look like, who he might be. Kiryu probably shouldn't even introduce himself as Mr. K today but he was a bit curious if it would get him a meeting with the man in charge who was using his money to run this place.
The scenario: Mr. K comes to visit Mr. M for the first time. How's that investment of mine going, buddy?
The setting: Early 1988, Sotenbori, the Sunshine Cabaret Club.
Any warnings: None to start.
Kiryu wasn't really sure what to expect from his coming here. It certainly was a spur of the moment whim when he'd decided to head off to Sotenbori and check out this 'Club Sunshine' he had been putting investments into. He just needed to get away from all the trouble he seemed to attract for a little while. Not that he was using that excuse to explain the sudden business trip--for that, he reasoned, he was interested in this investment and how it was going. That was his excuse for the unexpected trip should anyone ask.
He was interested in the place. He hadn't heard much, Mr. Moneybags liked to keep the details to himself, and that was fine. The reasoning had been enough to convince Kiryu it was fine the first time around and he wouldn't question that now. But his curiosity only grew the more he thought about it. Mr. Moneybags didn't need to know what he was doing right now. What would it really hurt anyway? He was just going to go in, check the place out, relax a little if he could, and then head back home at the end of the day. No harm done.
That was the plan anyway. He wasn't sure what the place was supposed to be but he was from Kamurocho, there wasn't much that could surprise him in regards to entertainment. When he walked in he noted how cozy it was. It had an air of luxury to it but not ostentatiously so and the smaller room made it more cozy rather than grandiose as the larger cabarets did. He had to admit, he sort of liked it. And, as he would discover after he was seated, it had a more intimate feel to it which he was less certain how that made him feel just yet.
But first he had to get a seat. He made these first few observations as he waited patiently in the foyer to be seated. He rarely came to these sorts of places on his own, especially for personal reasons, so he was admittedly a little nervous. Not that it showed on his determinedly stoic face as he peered curiously about the place.
Idly, he wondered if Mr. M was here today, and what he might look like, who he might be. Kiryu probably shouldn't even introduce himself as Mr. K today but he was a bit curious if it would get him a meeting with the man in charge who was using his money to run this place.
no subject
Youda did his absolute best, but one look at him told Majima all he needed to know - the man needed a vacation. Even two or three days off could do the trick— But they (all of them) had to make it through the night first. With a click of the tongue, Majima swooped in and gently redirected Youda's attention to the floor management. Thus, taking over the guest greeting and seating job.
That had put him in direct interaction with Kiryu. The start is usual — trademark bow, perfected greeting, lips curled upwards just enough to give an air of a positive attitude, but far from forming into a fake smile. Just enough time to quickly assess the man waiting for the seat.
—a new face, he's part of the younger crowd; the suit's fashionable, but also without an Osakan flair; someone used to make business with Tokyo, perhaps? Or maybe even a tourist. Funny thing, the expensive suit almost feels like a front, like— like Majima's looking into a mirror. His eye darts to double-check for a pin, but nothing's there.
"Tonight, club Sunshine, is going to make your wish come true, sir—" The few words that are about to be exchanged here are going to decide which of the girls is seated with this guest. "What is that you seek?"
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Kiryu was fine with the greeting--extremely formal and with a hint of playfulness that these sorts of places went for, made sense--right up until the man asked the inevitable question. Of course they would ask that in an establishment like this. If they didn't they could end up with a dissatisfied customer and no one wanted that. But Kiryu hadn't thought this through and now he was internally panicking at the fact that, well, he didn't actually have an answer on hand.
What did he want?
Well, that was the wrong question to ask himself because he actually wanted something specific and it wasn't to chat up one of the club's attractive ladies. So in his panic to stutter out an answer without stretching the silence into an awkward length while he thought about it, he managed to say the one thing he had wanted to avoid in the beginning.
"I'm actually here on a bit of business. I was hoping to meet with M-san. I was wondering how the club is doing." An awkward pause. "I'm K. It's...Kiryu actually."
Maybe he shouldn't have said his actual name.
What was he thinking!? He shouldn't have said any of that!
Five seconds in and this was already a disaster. Kiryu would be sweating beads if it wasn't such a comfortable temperature in here. As it was, his face remained impassive but the air around him was clearly agitated. Rather, it was thick and tense. As was generally the case with Kiryu it made him appear rather intense--menacing almost. In reality, he was just plain nervous. The tension was just his will managing to keep him from turning around and fleeing in the face of embarrassment.
He waited for the response while staring (unintentionally) intensely at the other man.
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Majima, by some miracle (three years of experience, more likely), kept his professional face— though a shadow of surprise, and perhaps a recognition has run through it. He never thought much about who the mysterious K actually is. When he entertained the curiosity it usually gave the picture of either a weirdo like Tanioka— who burns his money by paying people to listen to his guitar play; or middle-aged sugar-daddy type, happy to support an industry full of beautiful women. Kiryu was neither of that...
"I understand— I apologize for the lack of amenities sir, we were not informed in advance of your arrival" And yes, followed with another bow, just to be safe. Along with a mental note to scream at Tanioka later. He could give a heads-up this rich brat is coming!!! Or is it all some kind of test? "I believe I am the M you are looking for. My name is Majima, — pleased to make your acquaintance, Kiryu-san — I am the manager of this establishment."
His thoughts raced— there's an utter mess on the backstage, he couldn't lead investor in. Not to mention, what if one of the girls needed change or a short break? No, backstage is a sacred peaceful ground for the staff to retreat from the battlefield. And there is no way he can just walk out with this guy right now to conduct the talk right now!!
"How long are you staying in Sotenbori, sir? I firmly believe that the nearby cafe is perfect for business talks; they have right balance of privacy, amazing coffee, and pleasant city views" In a swift motion, Majima produced his business card then held it in front of him with both hands. "Let's arrange a meeting there, and for tonight, let us treat you to the classic Sunshine experience"
A back-up plan formed in Majima's head as he spewed the polite bullshit. If the guy insisted on the conversation tonight, they could probably take one of the VIP lodges.
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He was caught in the whirlwind though, lost at sea for all the sweetened business talk assaulting him. He never did really get the hang of all that. Distracted, he politely took the card from M's--Majima's--hands and gave it a cursory look. Then casually answered the question before he realized what he was doing and what he should have said first instead.
"...I wasn't planning on staying more than the day. I have to get back--" He stopped suddenly and looked up. "I apologize for the inconvenience, Majima-san. I would love to enjoy what the Sunshine has to offer as simply a regular guest. I did not mean to spring this on you."
Perhaps that was better. No sense in not being honest. He really hadn't meant to make such a blunder of all this. He hoped the other man forgave him for the trouble.
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Which hey, made Majima suddenly intrigued; good men ought to be a little stupid, that's not a bad trait. It made him wonder even more: just who exactly is this guy?
"I understand, the cafe offer still stands, should there be another time you get to visit Sotenbori" He couldn't bring himself to say 'our beautiful city' or other trite. "Please, follow me—"
And with a wave of his hand, a turn on the heel, he stepped into the club, glancing only briefly to make sure Kiryu is following him. The VIP table was ready to use, and Majima asked Kiryu to wait for the hostess to join him. This time he did not ask any questions, he figured he'd seen enough. This man isn't a connoisseur of cabaret clubs, honestly speaking, it seems like it might be his first time. Yuki or Ai seemed like the best bets, but once Majima returned backstage it turned out—
—everyone was busy. Everyone. All of them. Aside from Etsuko who was resting and ready to chat the moment she saw Majima. That's bad. That's an emergency. Etsuko was good, amazing even, at her work (yes, he had to grudgingly accept this), but in no way he could send to their investor the local comedian grandma. Think, he had to think what next—
One quick kidnapping of Youda later, and stressing how he absolutely needs to send either Yuki or Ai once they're free, Majima returned with the menu to Kiryu.
"My deepest apologies, it is a busy night for our staff— I cannot allow a customer to wait all alone." He gave another studied formal bow, before placing the menu on the table. "Please, pick anything you'd like, it's on the house. In the meantime, I can accompany you and answer the questions regarding our establishment. Or perhaps amuse you with stories related to it"
It's been pretty much ages since he had to interact with customers in this fashion, but hey, the game being played here was big.
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He had no idea the table was meant to be a special one. Had he paid a little more attention to detail or been a regular at such places he might have realized it. It was probably best that he did not, however, for he would have felt uncertain about it. He really didn't want extra accommodations.
Which of course meant that as soon as Majima returned with the menu and told him to pick something out on the house's expense he shifted uncomfortably with a small frown on his face. He was one of those patient customers that always smiled and said it wasn't a bother when things went so bad it was painful to watch the staff have to deal with it, not the type to cause such trouble because they were huffy about the wait time or some small mistake anyone could have made once in a while. He really was causing trouble for this establishment by coming here out of the blue.
On the other hand--he realized somewhat belated as his mind caught up to Majima's words--he had the manager to himself suddenly. That was what he had wanted, wasn't it?
"Ha, I'd like that." He said with a slight dip of his head in acknowledgement. "Though I insist on paying my bill. I'm here to help if I can, not make things worse."
After that, Kiryu shifted to perusing the menu as he was told and eventually settled on something neither too expensive nor too cheap, something moderate and smooth but not too refined either. He was a man of simple tastes usually but he might as well try something new every once in a while. With the drink order out of the way, he focused his attention on the manager once he'd settled into his role as host. This was both curious and odd somehow but Kiryu kept his cool and leaned into the curiosity as he had come here to learn more and this was, actually, quite perfect for it.
"Tell me a story. What has happened here at this establishment since you've been managing it?"
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"Hmm, personally I'm a new addition to the crew, but it has been so eventful it almost feels like I've been forever." Majima didn't let the Kansai accent into his speech, but he allowed himself a little more relaxed tone. It felt more fitting to the nature of their conversation.
"I'm unsure how much do you know about the cabaret club scene in the Sotenbori, nor do I know how it looks elsewhere... suffice to say, it's quite bloodthirsty. Metaphorically speaking, of course." Majima couldn't help but smirk as he added that small assurance. Kiryu doesn't need to know that it could absolutely get dark and violent. "Everyone got a rather competitive streak, and a club can fall out of favour in just one night, should they lose a club challenge battle. Sunshine started with nothing, but now—?"
Majima extended his arm and drew it around the room theatrically. The interior elegant, freshly renovated, music loud just enough to mute conversations from other tables, but not enough to hinder conversation between a customer and a hostess.
"Thanks to the passion of the staff, and your generosity, Sunshine is close to becoming the top club in all of Sotenbori. We have emerged victorious in every challenge issued to us, and we do not intend to stop until we get to the very top."
If he wanted to stroke the investor's ego more, he should have put the 'generosity' first, but he didn't want to butter up in such a fake way. It was a gamble, of course, but he hoped he was right in his impression that Kiryu was more of an honest man, rather than an entitled loaded prick.
"The girl I want to introduce you to has become the top hostess by her willpower and ever-present curiosity."
Thank god Yuki wasn't around to hear him praising her!
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"It sounds like you've overcome a lot," Kiryu said. "I didn't realize how brutal this sort of business could be." It reminded him of his own battles with the Five Billionaires actually. Those had been a lot more bloodthirsty than he had expected real estate to actually be. "I'm glad to hear that the investments have helped you prepare for these challenges, but more so that you and your staff have grown so much of your own will and strength. I look forward to meeting the one you praise so highly."
Indeed, with that kind of praise even Kiryu was intrigued and interested in meeting the girl. He was also, however, enjoying his time listening to Majima regale him. He nodded singularly, encouragingly.
"Do you have any specific stories of one of these challenges you would be willing to share with me?"
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Rough around the edges, learning things as they go and improvising— and yet, it was the best team he had a chance to work with, in this gilded shithole that was Sotenbori. Not that he was overly sentimental (oh, he was), but he hoped to make sure these kids were successful.
"I might start from the beginning, the first time a challenger appeared—"
As Majima was weaving his tale an unexpected thing happened. A discreet, beaming presence approached their table, took the menu and provided more ice for the drinks. At least until Majima himself noticed it and— things stopped at instant being discreet. For the first time, his Lord of the Night mask slipped, a melody of kansai accent taking over his polite and formal speech.
"Yuki-chan, what are you doin'? That's not—"
Not what he had called her for, he wanted to say. But finally, he got a good look at what took her so long— she jumped out of her white dress right into the elegant suit. An outfit not used often, aside for some theme nights really— but right at that moment, she effectively had a double of his own tux.
"Majima-san, you said I can train at management whenever I want! So I took that opportunity" Her innocent smile beamed even wider, but there was a clear mischievousness to it. That was a 'challenge issued by Yuki' Majima already knew so well. What's worse, she didn't even let him speak, but immediately turned to Kiryu and attempted to take cues from Majima's professional tone. "Welcome to Sunshine, K-san! My name is Yuki and I'm pleased to make your acquaintance. Ah— on every other night I'd be the one sitting with you, and I'm looking forward to keeping you company— but I noticed you two hitting it off so well I got this little idea here. Majima-san had taught me everything I know, so technically, he should be our best hostess— errr, I mean a host, that would be a host, right?"
Yuki's professional demeanor dropped at the very last slip and she looked a little confused at Majima, as if asking him for help.
"4 points, Yuki-chan. Guess a bonus for initiative" he deadpanned at her and took a glance at Kiryu, his professional demeanor making its way right back on. "If our honored guest here would prefer you to entertain him, I'd be unable to play along with this little idea of yours."
That's right, leave it to Kiryu. Majima was nearly 100% sure he'd back him up and ask Yuki to stay, anyone who comes to the club prefers the company of one of the girls, that's obvious.
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Though he didn't get the time to process them fully at the moment. His eyes darted quickly to Majima then Yuki and back to Majima once more. It struck him rather suddenly, forcefully, that they were waiting on him to make a decision. For him to say something.
He froze like a deer in headlights. Once again that intensity filled the air around him as his mind hyper-focused on the issue presented him. He didn't want to make them wait too long; neither did he have an immediate answer without taking time to think it through. The worst dilemma. The type that typically caused an extreme awkward moment.
His mouth parted slightly, his eyes darted back and forth one more time between the two of them. What did he say?
This was worse than that dumb telephone challenge. He swore he'd never go to such a place again (probably one he'd break in the future but never mind that for now). He had to start talking or else they'd surely think something was wrong with him. (Was that an option? Could he feign illness? No, that was lame. He wasn't that weak!) His eyes settled on the girl before him and her gentle smile. She seemed really happy.
When his voice finally passed through those parted lips and formed actual words, his tone was surprisingly calm even to his own ears.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Yuki-chan. Are you enjoying your time spent practicing management? It seems to suit you. If you'd like to continue, I won't hold it against you or the establishment. It's refreshing to see that kind of initiative and determination. Majima-san did say you were a driven individual." He paused for breath and a quick thought. "I can see how he taught you. He's quite engaging. I don't mind talking to him a bit longer. It's been very insightful so far and I'm enjoying the learning experience."
After he finished talking directly to Yuki, he looked back to Majima. "Shall we continue? Or do you prefer to return to the floor and manage the business personally?"
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He'd fail as a boss to deny her the opportunity to learn, especially when she went so far to make it happen. Still, a more cynical part of him felt they really lucked out with Kiryu being surprisingly chill about the prank, it could have ended in disaster with someone more rigid about the experience.
"I have never tasted defeat so thoroughly—" Majima huffed, switching to the kansai accent as he reached behind his head and took off the tie binding his hair. This followed by undoing the bowtie; just a bit of change in the image to settle in the sudden, new role. He gestured to Yuki that he wants a drink as well, which she reacted to with a delighted bow and resumed the patrol of the club. She's gonna be an unexpected sensation tonight, Majima was sure of it. But as they say... leave future problems, to the future you. "Let's start anew then, the cards got reshuffled. Never a borin' night here."
Slowly he managed to relax his posture, but he still wasn't sure how to address Kiryu in this new role. -san felt suddenly way too formal for this little host play.
"Ah! Speakin' of cards... what kind of games do you enjoy? Personally, I've been tryin' my hand at darts recently, but turns out that can be quite a gamble. There's plenty of fun spots in Sotenbori, and I could recommend a few of them. Not at all because we're partnered with'em!"
He finished with a sly smile, poking fun at the entire entertainment industry.
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Of course, his attention shifted easily back to Majima as she left them to their discussion. Kiryu watched the transformation into a more relaxed host and had to admit he was impressed the man had so many personae that felt natural to him. Perhaps he was a bit jealous; Kiryu himself was aware that he only had one face and it wasn't always conductive to what he was attempting to do at times. Then there was the fact that Majima slipped right back into that Kansai accent again and combined with the relaxed posture, the loose hair--
He blinked and focused on what the man was saying. Cards? Darts? Entertainment? Oh, was he getting the full on host
essexperience now?"Darts are good. I like the skill and occasional luck involved. Same with poker and other card games, and dice. Though I prefer to play gambling games with friends rather than strangers. I lose less money that way." He said with another almost smile at his own attempt at a joke. "There's the pocket racing which can be more involved than you might think. Oh, and baseball."
Kiryu suddenly realized he had a lot of hobbies. And he hadn't even listed all of them yet. He'd let Majima pick one of those favorites.
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"Pocket...racing?" that made Majima tilt his head in surprise. It was the first time he heard that term and it brought an image of remote control cars, and kids racing them sometimes around the park. He didn't press into it more because then Kiryu said the magic word and had Majima perk up immediately, and he latched onto that topic. "Baseball? My man. There used to be a battin' center, not far from here, but they sadly tore that down almost two years ago. Real shame— I was a regular"
What he didn't mention, is that's how he practiced and got used to monocular vision. Depth perception went to shit, and he wore more bruises from the missed balls than he'd like to admit. But he trained until he got it right. And this train of thought was unproductive for the role he had to fulfill, so instead, he went into a full teasing mode.
"You more of a pitcher or a catcher, Kiryu-chan?"
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But baseball was just as good. He brightened as the subject was picked. Then deflated a little at Majima's story, actually looking a little sad at the news that the center had been torn down.
"We have one in Kamurocho. If you're ever in town, I'd be more than happy to take you," he offered with absolute sincerity. "I frequent it regularly myself."
It reminded him of his best friends and just happier times in general. Daigo still liked to go there on occasion and Kiryu couldn't resist the little brat's pleas to hang out even these days despite knowing it was better if no one was associated with him right now. He was a good kid even if he was at awkward age of rebellion.
As for Majima's question, the double entendre went right over his head. Which probably was a good thing lest he break out in total red from blushing at the other subject implied. Of course, that didn't mean his answer was any less awkward if one's head was already stuck on the other side of the double meaning.
"I'm fine with either. I don't mind doing whatever someone prefers me to handle."
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'If you're ever in town' hah. The goal was to find a way to get back in town. And so much more. It seemed far, unattainable even, but was still a goal. A goal to aim for. To make one thing for one person right. Majima brushed away these thoughts, decided to focus on the weirdly sentimental feeling that the news about the batting center still standing brought. That made his smile he said that line with more genuine if wistful.
"I got it similar like ya, whateva' role's needed the most, I'll fill it. What can I say, I'mma real people pleaser" That's when his smile turned suspiciously innocent and he extended his arms briefly as he was making a show of himself. "I heard some draw straws to figure out who goes where"
Truly, he couldn't help himself, even if he wasn't entirely sure if Kiryu was on the innuendo, or if he's missed it entirely. There just was something in the young man's face that begged to tease him a little. And if it was to be unwelcome then... he's just talking about baseball, no?
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Talking about baseball in general was much more simple. He nodded. "I don't doubt it. You're very friendly, Majima-san." It was meant to be a compliment. A note on his skill at conversation and companionship even. Kiryu thought Majima was quite good at it and he, for one, was entertained by their pleasantries. "Oh, I've heard of that practice. I suppose if it's all for fun there's no harm in the randomization of the team placement."
Was it getting obvious that he didn't know there was innuendo going on yet? Kiryu was still clueless about what Majima was talking about beneath the baseball talk. Still probably for the best or that blush would be much more prominent than a light dusting of pink. Which was totally just from the drinking, naturally, nothing more.
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So Kiryu either wasn't getting the flirt, or he was playing hard to get. But there was no sign that he got it and was trying to dissuade from continuing in that tone, which gave Majima no real reason to stop. Making a customer uncomfortable, is a no-no, but that wasn't what Kiryu was displaying here. Perhaps he should take the hint with obliviousness and don't go that way further— that would be the wise, business choice to do, right?
But... Majima realized he was having fun, the most unexpected thing of all. So why not just a little longer.
"Mmmm, but it's leavin' everythin' to chance, don't ya think? Why not paper-scissor-rock it? That's where skill comes in, the very process of decidin' becomes passionate and excitin'—" He had to stop because he couldn't stop the little chuckle to well into a giggle, and he couldn't have a giggle fit in the middle of work. It wasn't working and he leaned forward, briefly hiding his face in his hand and his shoulder shook. Yet, he still tried to finish the thought
"And if someone wants a rematch after losin', that's how ya knew they do have a preferred position....... m'sorry, 'm dyin' here imagining this"
And as usual, the jokes is probably way more funny in his head.
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Sorry but you lost him, Majima. Lost him so hard he got stuck on something so frivolous it was pointless to the conversation entirely. Then again, for someone like him who found it harder to read people, to get into their minds and figure out why they did what they did, it really did seem impossible to predict a game of chance. Someone like Majima, however, could see those tics, read a person sharply, and predict their every move if he wished. He probably could even guess what symbol a man would chose before they'd laid it out.
Or maybe he just relied on the chaos to settle itself where it was most fun and that point of the conversation meant absolutely nothing but fun. Who knew.
Kiryu did latch onto one other thing at this point: Majima wasn't always as composed as he pretended to be while on the floor. This wasn't even another guise for entertainment purposes. That giggle fit had to be nothing less than genuine. Kiryu wasn't certain whether to be amused or insulted. Mostly because, he realized, he didn't get what was so funny.
"...guess so. They should just speak up if that's the case. No point in being upset over something they could have prevented."
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"Some words of wisdom are those!"
And the save came in the form of pouring Kiryu another drink (you didn't have to lean so close to brush yer elbows together, focus Goro, dammit), and steering the conversation away from the topic. Despite having noticed the confusion on Kiryu's face, his tone was back to light and conversational. But an awkward note might slip in, he was, after all, covering his own slip.
"But ya still haven't told me what's that pocket racin' is!"
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But enough of all that silliness.
On to another silliness!Majima had steered the conversation back into another direction. And one that Kiryu was also quite fond of. It sounded like Majima didn't know anything about it either so Kiryu was ready to explain it away."Pocket Racing is all about customization, skill, and speed. You customize a small racing car to perform at its peak and win any race. It may sound like child's play but it actually requires a lot of thought and technique to accomplish a perfect racing record."
Notably, this was quite possibly the most noticeable version of the faint smile that Kiryu got in his demeanor when he was pleased with something. He seemed to really like the Pocket Racing hobby.
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He didn't think he could go as far as to customize a car. Real one or toy one, sounded like something out of his field. And while his first instinct was to tease Kiryu about this hobby, just seeing how fond of it he was changed his mind. An adult man playing with toy cars is going to get shit whenever he admits to that, and Sunshine is not meant to be a place that extinguishes a flame of passion.
"People collect model trains, and that's seen as a respectable hobby. These cars sound like they fit the exact same bill."
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He almost offered to take Majima there as well but he stopped short with a brief stare. His excitement had gotten the better of him. He didn't think Majima was interested in his silly hobby. He looked away and watched one of the girls greet a new customer some tables over.
Idly, he took a sip of his refreshed drink. His cheeks blushed a faint pink as he realized how close Majima had gotten to him--close enough that earlier they'd brushed together. This feeling was...unexpected. He didn't quite know what it was.
"...This is what you teach them. This is why your business is so booming. It reminds me of someone else."
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"Guys come to have a good time and relax. That's the service we provide."
Majima's smile still remained, although a little faded, almost thoughtful. He rolled his glass in his hand, looking at the half-melted ice-cubes rattle inside.
"Some want to party, others are into word games, plenty wants to feel as if they're on a date with a pretty girl but without the commitment— but ya know, most just want to chat with someone that's interested in listenin' what they got to say—"
Maybe it was a sign of their times. That finding a friend that would listen has become a luxury. But that's something for wiser heads to figure out. Everyone at Sunshine has their own goals, and works hard at staying afloat. That's where their focus was.
"So who is that you thought of? Your friend?" The professional and polite way of speech was back, but then it wavered into a casual tone yet again "Yer girlfriend?"
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The Dragon of Dogima looked back at Majima with a serene look on his face. Admiration--that this man worked so hard at this job and sounded so sincere when he spoke, whether in his more formal pattern or his slangy speech. He wanted to say as much but couldn't find the words. Kiryu determined to find some way to convey how he truly felt sometime. For now, he continued the conversation as best he could with his less than stellar conversational skill.
"No," he shook his head. "I don't have a girlfriend. I meant a business partner. Well, mentor. He taught me how formal business is. It's hard to remember all the rules and acceptable practices. You're like him; good at all of this."
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"That's— quite a compliment," he said wistfully. "I'll do my best to live up to it."
Briefly, he felt a disconnect, in how people perceived him, and in who he felt he was. Whoever that mentor was must have been a figure that helped Kiryu get to his position; a position where he had so much money he could invest into a club just because he wanted to. But he was no one of that sort, wasn't he?
He wanted to say something else, ask a question but his attention was caught by a sudden commotion at the entrance. The music didn't let the sound through, and present guests remained unperturbed, but he knew how to recognize the signs. Youda blocking the passage, tall figures moving at the entrance. Yuki looked a little panicked and caught Saki just returning from her brief break— shit.
"Excuse me, Kiryu-han. There's an emergency I must attend to. I shall return shortly" He stood up, followed it up with an apologetic bow, and rushed to the entrance with a swift, but not alarmed step.
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He truly felt this deep inside. Of course, the interruption came before he could find his words. Such was life.
Kiryu glanced over to where Majima's eye had roamed and then back again. He nodded and made a sound of confirmation. Then watched as Majima left almost without even hearing Kiryu's response.
For a moment Kiryu tried to keep his attention elsewhere, watching the other patrons enjoy their time with the girls here. It wasn't his place to interfere here. It wasn't his job to take out the trash in this place. And yet--that was what he was used to doing. He couldn't help it when he looked back towards the entrance, eyes seeking out Majima's tall, lanky form as he confronted the ill behaved guests. He watched as the scene unfolded.
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The moment Yuki noticed him coming she darted backstage, Majima stood behind Youda politely asking what's wrong and assessing the problem.
Ah, drunk chinpira. Thinking they're Omi's high league when they weren't even on a level of a grunt. But they packed hidden weapons, had a very high opinion of themselves, and low about the hostess they felt entitled to. Despite his slender form, Majima pulled very well an intimidating figure. The height, the eyepatch, and the way he stood as if he bowed to no one (if only...). Despite their growing process he managed to push the thugs out of the club— Yuki ran up to him at the last moment, and to his surprise handed him a baseball bat. He flashed her a grin and hoped the guests (and the investor lad) did not notice that little supporting item.
With door to club firmly closed and them on the streets, he was ready to unleash the world of pain. No one messes with Sunshine on his watch!
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Even when he didn't want to be still. His eyes darted back to the entrance. Barely a minute had passed. Plenty of time for a quick fight. It was probably already over with. Kiryu couldn't sit still anymore.
Without dismissing his calm exterior, Kiryu stood up from the table and walked swiftly for the front entrance. He ignored everyone along the way, determined to get outside and see what had occurred. He had a feeling that the manager of this establishment could handle himself just fine and yet-- If anything had happened to Majima...
He burst out of the front doors and stood outside, gaze sweeping the area to find Majima and the thugs that thought they could interrupt this nice business.
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These men surely thought their force laid in numbers, and they could easily overpower one manager. How wrong were they proven— the fight was almost done, Majima was currently busy twirling his bat as if it was a nunchaku and probably hitting the man more times than it was necessary, finishing it with a kick.
That would be the end of it— if not for one of the previously incapacitated punks that got off the ground by sheer force of spite. Popped open a folding knife and ignoring Kiryu entirely, ran towards Majima
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The Dragon of Dojima felt a surge of energy at the sight. He wasn't certain where it came from other than the fact that Majima's proud, strong form enticed something out of him. The desire to test that strength, perhaps, against his own undefeated might.
The feeling was fleeting, though the blood pumping through him did not fade, it quickened as Kiryu caught sight of the thug with knife in hand running towards Majima. The big bruiser was surprisingly quick when he wanted to be--he dashed forward swiftly in time to catch the chinpira by the knife hand, give it a rapid chop to break the arm and disarm the man. He then grabbed the man by the shoulder and spun around to throw him towards the nearest wall. Kiryu turned his back on the crumpled chinpira, confident he wouldn't be getting back up this time.
His gaze met Majima's in that instant and—
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But that surprise is one to throw him off more than anything the opponent could pull off— the effortless spin Kiryu performed as if the guy weighed nothing (his own movement only making it easier to smash him against the wall). This was not a lucky move, it was a fully controlled, focused mayhem.
Shit, there's a brief flash of... something. Something that tempted him to lunge at Kiryu without prompting— something that told him all the ways they could have exciting fun— he resisted, though, remained in the spot for a second more as their gazes met.
No way he can put on the mask again, not quite. The illusion of the Lord of the Night must have been thoroughly shattered— so what's next? Instead of planning, Majima resigned himself to playing this by ear, following the instinct.
"Woa— Nice grapple. Should have asked ya 'bout yer workout routine" Majima did try to downplay the presence of a baseball bat, partially hiding it behind his leg in a casual hold. He also tried to stop himself from grinning, which resulted in a crooked smile— at least, until he gave up on that and nearly beamed. "Thanks for the save, but now let's get ya out of here. It's unseemly for us makin' mr. Investor work as a bouncer."
Majima stepped over the lying (whining) men as he kept trying to catch Kiryu's attention and steer them towards returning to the club. While he still used the manager's reasoning, his speech pattern slipped a lot on the casual side. Maybe it's the adrenaline still coursing through his veins clouding his judgement.
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The moment passed quickly (and yet had almost felt like forever in that slowed down time way that adrenaline seemed to produce) and Kiryu blinked as Majima broke the spell with words. He nodded at the other man and there was almost something akin to pride in his features as he stood straight and indomitable. The compliment may have been a way to brush off the awkward situation but Kiryu didn't feel like it wasn't entirely without merit. And he was young and proud.
He followed Majima's lead easily enough though, letting the adrenaline fade as quickly as it had come. A pity but for the best. Majima was right, he didn't need to get into a fight. Not here, not now. He turned back towards the club as Majima led him that way and they headed inside once more.
"I don't mind," he insisted though just to let the other know. "Though I was glad to see you didn't really need my help."
In more ways than one. He was glad that Majima was all right, but also excited to note that he was more than just capable of defending his club. It looked like Majima was a seasoned fighter. A good one at that. Something about that made Kiryu inexplicably glad to find that out, too. Maybe it could be brought up in more detail later. For now, he let Majima steer the tone of the conversation from there. He'd said what he wanted to about it.
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That realization hit bitterly, and in an attempt to make it go away, to prove to himself it's not like that— he turned around, taking advantage of the relative privacy the corridor near the bar and backstage offered.
"Seedy district brings seedy element— it doesn't really fit the image, but keepin' the customers and girls safe take priority over that" At least here, in Sunshine, Majima had a little more freedom about taking care of trash, so to speak. A little bit more space to breathe in general. He dipped into backstage to put away the bat, but also to drag Kiryu inside (after making sure none of the girls is around). There he proceeded to smooth his hair, catching any stray strand and putting it in place "So is makin' sure none of them notice what's goin' on"
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It rang a bell within him. A realization on the tip of his brain. But the second passed and he returned to the now without the idea fully forming. Still, he was curious about this man and his nature. What drove him. How he learned his skills, as both a business manager and a fighter.
"I understand," he said in order to continue the conversation. He was glad that Majima felt the need to keep everyone in his establishment safe. That was what sat so well with him about this man. There was a danger lurking underneath the pristine look but a kindness and honor that Kiryu could admire. Admittedly, he was a bit thunderstruck by this man and everything about him. He wanted to get to know Majima more. "You're doing a fine job if I had to guess. The business is running smoothly and you've made certain everyone is safe." A pause and then, "I like the way you run things. I'm glad I got to see so much tonight. It's been an education and a pleasure. I hope to continue to do business with your establishment, and you, as the future allows."
He wasn't certain that was entirely what he wanted to say. There was more, perhaps, or another angle that he felt might convey what he truly wanted better. But he wasn't certain what that really was yet. This sounded business like and professional--he hoped--which worked well from their relationship as business partners, but it felt lacking somehow to Kiryu. At least maybe it would convince the other man that Kiryu wasn't going to stop doing business with his club for what he saw tonight. That was enough of a start to figure out what it was that nagged at him, that wanted him to say something else in another manner yet he couldn't figure out what. Probably sounded a lot less awkward than anything else he could say anyway. He hoped it would do. For now.
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No reason to mull on that sully the mood, Sunshine was outside of Sagawa's greedy hands, and so were everyone involved, including Kiryu (even though not out of his reach. Majima knew he was allowed to work here only as long as it didn't interfere with Grand's business)
"Thank you for your patronage"
Smoke and mirrors. They're so polite, nice, business-like... Majima wanted to laugh, if not for the aluminum bat (that he still hasn't put away, and instead leaned on as if it was an elegant cane, befitting his outfit), they'd still be a picture of two, snappy young businessmen.
"The way you say it, makes it sound like you'll be leaving us soon—" The hint of disappointment was genuine; that energy that sparked moments ago, it wasn't gone, at least not for Majima. He was looking at Kiryu in a new light, as if all the little things of his personality that he unfolded before, of what kind of man he is, started to fall in place. Now that he realized he was missing a crucial piece.
—because now he knew there was also a streak of spiky defiance lurking just below the soft-spoken and candid surface. Where Kiryu went outside, despite being told to stay. And got involved because he wanted to— or maybe because he felt the need to. Perhaps he was jumping to conclusions way too soon, but Majima suddenly felt with utmost certainty, that nothing, no request, no authority could make this young man bend his personal convictions. No wonder he made a fortune.
"Whenever you're ready, we can dial you a cab any moment ya want, there's a spot for them just nearby. You may stay however long you wish, though—"
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He supposed that was true. He was having fun. It was tempered by the business-like meeting and his awkwardness but if Kiryu admitted it to himself he had enjoyed his time here. He should probably head back to Kamurocho for the night...
He smiled at Majima. "You can hold off on the cab for a little bit longer."
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He opened mouth to say something, but before he got more than the first syllabe, Yuki busted through the door. All prim and proper, but the moment the door closed she sighed loudly and bowed down. Hands-on knees, as she leaned back on the door, an image of misery. The sigh continued until she looked up at Majima and whined.
"Majima-saaan. Please no more. I mixed up the tables! Brought wrong order— Couldn't tell which whiskey is which!! The shelves are too tall—"
The door opened suddenly behind her, pushing her forward. Arms flailing, she nearly tripped but Majima was there to catch her mid-step. Youda who entered the backstage room looked positively sheepish, upon the realization that it was him opening the door that caused the minor ruckus.
"It's alright Yuki-chan, I handled this. You're too much of an airhead to handle floor management" Youda was simultaneously reassuring but also disapproving. The bickering was an everyday thing, but Majima could read the room, and suspected that right now, it could damage Yuki's confidence.
"Nonsense!" Majima proclaimed helping her up and quickly brushing off unruly strands from her face. "No one gets this shit perfectly the first time. You trip and you learn."
"Maybe I'm really not fit for this kind of responsibility" Yuki remained slightly dejected but she also began to perk up, at least until Majima pulled another stunt.
"Hey, Kiryu-han... You got the customer experience already, how about seeing the inner workings?" Majima turned to Kiryu and immediately suggested an idea that suddenly formed in his mind. Accompanied by expression of surprise from both Youda and Yuki. "We could use someone man the bar, to hand Yuki the orders. Ya, look like someone who knows his drinks. Ah— naturally I'll be manning the floor too, yer not going to be left alone out there Yuki"
Yuki looked at the beaming Majima with an expression of combined confusion and suspicion. As if she was trying to find a catch in his words. (As if she was expecting a prank). Then her gaze moved at Kiryu, before returned to Majima again. She clearly had something to say, but didn't want to talk over Kiryu's response.
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"All right," he agreed easily enough. The could feel the surprise in the room. But this wasn't the first time he'd offered to help despite his better judgement. "As long as I don't have to make any mixed drinks."
He was afraid he'd get something like that all wrong. He had no experience behind a bar. He knew his drinks from being a regular patron and he could read bottles without aid, even the ones on the top shelf, but he knew nothing about mixing specialty drinks. He hoped they didn't do that sort of thing here, or that someone else could handle it while he just got the items for said someone else.
As far as helping out though, he had no qualms about it. Again, it wasn't the first time he'd been asked or accepted unusual requests. This time it just felt more like helping an old friend instead of some stranger. Which was odd since they'd only just met today but somehow he felt more close to Majima and this establishment than anyone else he'd met for the same length of time. Or maybe he just didn't want to disappoint that beaming smile aimed at him. The clever man was having fun and Kiryu felt like he should keep that going, felt like having fun, too.
Only his usual nervousness about new things kept him a little subdued. (No, wait, that was typical from an outside point of view. He was always quiet and intense.) And the desire not to disappoint while trying hard to help.
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"Don't worry, Kiryu-san. Cocktails are not popular orders— leave the hard work to Majima-san!"
"Eh—? Since when I'm on mixin' drinks duty, that's Youda's lane"
Youda observed their exchange with a stoic look on his face as he stated general words of support without directing it to anyone in particular.
"I believe in you."
And that's how they all returned to their work. Majima grabbed Kiryu for a moment to straighten the front of his jacket, and then fixed his collar. A perfectionist at work. Though part of him did want to get a closer look at the businessman that could hold his way in a street fight. Kiryu carried himself like a— soldier, or a fighter. It wasn't immediately obvious but his shoulders just never slump.
"Remember, any moment ya want to take a break just do so. Customers aren't allowed to roam, so no one will come to the bar aside for me, Yuki and maybe Youda" Maybe being a big word here, since, with the chaos they brought, the man was definitely going to stick to the entrance and nothing else. "Thanks for lendin' a hand and goin' along with it."
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He stood his ground though and once Majima was done Kiryu finally snapped out of it, and nodded before responding properly. "It's no problem, Majima-san. I'm glad to help. I'll do my best."
Once he was out there working hard it would all be a breeze. That was just how Kiryu was as a person. He put his all into whatever he did.