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Post by Bass on Jul 17, 2021 16:53:19 GMT -8
The early evening hours rolled by and in his office, the Namekian was working late. He'd gotten accustomed to a peaceful and quiet life refraining from using his abilities in an effort to avoid cutting corners wherever possible. He was trying to give back to the society that granted him the privilege of having the job he has now by partaking in it further. The reason he was working late was because of The Burrito Bass. It'd been built, at this point he was just scouting talent and going through a list of potential prospects. They'd sorted through all of the logistical challenges in keeping a steady stream of jumbo produce coming in, but now they needed staff to actually run the place. Given the scale of the food it specialized in, their employees needed to be able to work with big items. Naturally, that meant they needed to be monsters or large in nature. The list in front of Bass showed the rare Monster Chef here and there from distant lands. Each of them simply had a name, an address and a summary of their work experience. Though he'd exhausted that list a while ago. It was a little harder than he'd anticipated to actually find enough of them that were willing, able, and available. Now the Namekian simply tapped his index finger on his wooden desk, the key feature of a sizeable office containing various figurines, comic books, and rewards and the like- the typical things a person decorates their office with. Thinking back on his time around West City, his mind really only went over one name. Wakana Waka- it was definitely a name that stuck. She fit what he was looking for, but that was honestly all he knew. She seemed rough around the edges, but Bass thought that kind of personality wouldn't be so bad in a place whose clientele needed to sometimes be brought down a peg. What made him note her candidacy for the job more than that however, was her disposition and underlying intelligence. At a glance it was plausible one could mistake her as being a little clumsy, but their experience led him to believe that while she had trouble articulating at times, what went on in her head was a lot more complicated than people gave her credit for. He might as well call and check. As classic a means as they come, the Namekian went across the building to their secretaries desk to grab the latest issued phone book from West City. Hefting it up over his shoulder, he'd move back up to his office and open it up. The search wouldn't take long before he'd come across the W.W names, and aside from a few other names there it was. Wakana Waka. He thought about it for a moment as he picked up the phone. She was driven towards her work back then, but he had no idea what drove her. She seemed to want to be an actor, but not just an extra of a sorts. It made sense, that kind of contract gig usually exploited people putting their all in for 'opportunities' to advance in the field. He figured he needed an employee, and a shot not taken is a shot missed. Dialing up Wakana, he'd let the phone ring as he sat at his desk amidst the quiet of night. He had no clue how she kept busy, if she was even available to pick up the phone- none of that. But worst case scenario, he'd leave a message. Regardless, as the other end of the line became available he'd speak. " Hey Wakana. It's B-... Twofish, we met briefly a couple years back on the set of a TV show." If she remembered him, or if she hadn't answered and this was on the answering machine, he'd continue. " Hopefully you're doing well. I'm not sure what you're doing for a living nowadays, but I was wondering if you'd be okay with me swinging by. I wanted to know if you'd be interested in a job working at a restaurant I opened up there. We could meet to talk about it if that's fine with you." He'd mention. If she actually picked up the phone. If not he'd tag on a little. " Call me back when you get the chance to let me know." Depending on her answer, he may or may not be looking at plane tickets. Either way, he'd be heading to West City. The City had a few people he wanted to talk with about working there, and he could take the train from there to various other areas in the Central Lands. However if Wakana was interested in the idea, he'd be headed there a couple days sooner than he was expecting. 801 | 801 Wakana Waka
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Post by Wakana Waka on Jul 23, 2021 1:06:09 GMT -8
”Damn... this’ll take a few days…!”
Blood poured down Waka’s back; soaking the towel. Geez – these fights just got worse every time. Even playing the fall guy seemed to be getting tougher. Everyone thought that losing was the easy part, but at her size… it had to be a show. Too bad the pay wasn’t so generous… but, a quick paycheck in return for some sweat and blood was the only thing that kept her from losing her room. People talked shit about Oolong City, but West City was its own kind of hell…
”Dis'nfect'nt time. Bottom’s up ---!”
Oh, and did she howl. Yeah, everyone went on about how great Majin were at regenerating and whatever – but she wasn’t a Majin! She was just some punk… and that meant her wounds needed a lot more love than those gummy kids. She was left wheezing from the pain… but, better than getting infected, that was for damn sure.
”Ugh… h-head’s ring'ng. Did I take too many hits this time? Ugh, they didn’t used to go for the head, a few years back…”
No, no, false alarm – that was her phone ringing. No tinnitus yet! Well, no more than usual. The huge fox tied the towel up around her, and reached over to the aging mobile phone. While every phone was ‘smart’ nowadays, Waka’s was decided less of a Mensa candidate and more of a tradie – just how she liked it. An unknown number was popping up, though… scammer? Whatever, she’d let it ring out; didn’t wanna coat her phone with blood.
The message beeped… Waka was pleasantly surprised at first – someone remembered her stupid old nicknames? – but her mood promptly plummeted. That guy, huh? Ah, it was like a bad dream. She remembered hassling him about his little company’s stocks – cause she’d bought an option of them. And, dumbass she was, she’d dared to make it a put… in other words, she’d gambled on it crashing. She’d been all fun and games then, but she ended up paying most of her savings to make up for it. Sure, to be bitter about that was petty – but, Waka was anything if not petty!
Stupid roach… now, he was living the high life, showing up in Fortune 500; and she was eating dirt for cash! And now, offering her a job?! At a restaurant – what?! She could barely afford to feed herself! It made her fume… but. She hadn’t survived this long by being picky. A job was a job… as much as the thought of working for some capitalist dreamboat made her wretch. Ah, if nothing else, she might be able to sneak a free lunch out of it…
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So, she checked her watch – hm, she was early, but just standing around in this shop felt pretty awkward. The Mochiko Tea café was kinda upmarket for her, but… she wasn’t about to invite some hotshot like Bass out to Majin Moo’s! Eh, though, that cute waitress wasn’t on the job today, which was a shame. Kinda made things worse, since… now, she seemed even more awkward. At least the smell of pastries and lunch teas was relaxing enough… even if her wallet might be weeping a bit after this.
The other option, though, was waiting outside – not a fun idea, as the rainstorm grew heavier by the minute. Waka’s sweater was already a bit soaked, so she’d had to whip it off and just settle for her nice button-up instead. At the very least, she didn’t look too much like a drenched puppy… eh, well, a 7’ drenched puppy, anyway.
Ah, man. Interviews just never panned out well for her, did they?
[616/616] Starting PL: 28,106
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Post by Bass on Jul 23, 2021 7:06:24 GMT -8
He'd made it to West City. As was customary for the Namekian, he'd taken a flight. Once upon a time he'd have just appeared, but he decided to change things up. Besides, he kind of enjoyed getting to watch the clouds roll on by. Having landed at the airport at some point in the afternoon, he'd check his watch. He seemed to have arrived with a couple hours to spare. In line with passing the time by, he'd check up on his restaurant. The place looked great, but it looked remarkably lonely with the lights off, without staff and with so much empty space inside. Opening up the doors with a pair of keys, the Namekian walked around for several moments. He thought about the future the place could have, but at this point in time it was collecting dust. It was largely a non-issue, as his intended opening date had yet to transpire. Specifically, the Namekian wanted to open The Burrito Bass with a huge marketing push utilizing the World Martial Art Tournament. There would be a ton of hungry fighters after that, plenty of folks that could get there pretty quickly as well after the tournament on their way home. Theoretically, maybe he could set up a stall there. He figured a lot of fighters wouldn't have the patience to get to West City to eat, and would instead ruin the restaurants near the ring itself. Ah well, there was only so much he could do. The West City location was more sustainable in the long run, even if it'd get a massive spike of sales if it was made at the WMAT ring. For a few hours he'd just tinker around with the place. Swat a fly that'd found its way in given the place was un-staffed, tidy up some furniture placement, make sure the lights were still working. General maintenance. Before he knew it as he checked the time, it was half an hour from their meeting. Heading out and locking up, he'd throw on a light jacket and head on over.
Pulling around the corner he'd check the time again, he was around five minutes early. He chose to take public transport instead of the taxi. As if cursed by the heavens, not only was it raining, but a proper storm had hit. Holding his leather briefcase over his head, he'd look down the road to see the building. He hoped it was the right spot- the doubt in his mind that he could've gotten it wrong lingered, but sure enough as he approached the looming silhouette of Waka was visible through the glass window at the front of the shop. There was equal parts relief, and equal parts dread. He knew how wild the Beastwoman could get, he was particularly concerned for how things might go. Waka was a shot in the dark he'd personally taken, but... So much went into the simplest decisions. Nevertheless he waited for traffic to calm down before hurriedly crossing the road while approaching the doors of the locale. The Namekian surprisingly wasn't wearing his standard dress shirt get up. Considering Wakana wasn't actually listed as a prospective employee that Momentum Corp's executive team wanted, coming two days earlier than he was supposed to was entirely on him, and so he'd taken two days leave to make up for it. The bright side was that this doubled as a vacation, it also meant he didn't need to be in the shirt and tie- even if he loved it. Instead he was wearing a light sports jacket with a vaguely form fitting beige cashmere turtleneck, black jeans, and his watch of course. One thing that was the same were the dress shoes he wore. Opening the door, the Namekian took a quick moment to shake his briefcase off so the water would be flung to the sidewalk before going in fully. Once inside, there was an exacerbated sigh from him considering the frustration the weather conditions imposed on appearance. Looking towards Waka, it seemed like she wasn't exempt from the conditions outside either. He thought about offering a handshake, but he got a tiny amount of an impression that she wouldn't receive it well. In his mind he figured it was a sense of pride, but some facts clashed with that. Instead he'd simply speak up. "Hopefully you weren't in the rain too long. Anything you want to get before we sit down? I don't mind paying." Her deduction of the very least being a free lunch wasn't wrong, the offer was out there. Following up with that he'd start to move towards the counter while making out what was available on the menu. He'd... He'd actually only ever been to a similar place to this once before, but those were... Wildly strange circumstances. The menu was fairly vibrant though- cafe's often had a tendency to sell biscuits and desserts and the like. Admittedly he was a little nervous as to what to try. He didn't actually have a biological need to eat, but he did benefit from the energy food provided. Looking towards Waka he'd instead divert to her for advice. "Have you been here before? Any recommendations?" He left the answer in her court, though if she was as clueless as he was, he'd just go for the item that looked the nicest; a simple metric for decision making. 901 | 1,702 Wakana Waka
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Post by Wakana Waka on Aug 3, 2021 3:40:24 GMT -8
As Waka awkwardly dissuaded the somewhat beleaguered waitress that she was waiting for someone for a third time, her unlikely host made his appearance – early, thankfully, but… not quite early enough for Waka to avoid plenty of stares. Err, well, such a thing was impossible, but you know. At least she didn’t wear a hoodie, huh? To her credit, though, she’d briefly check her hair in her reflection to try and make herself a tiny bit more presentable, before finally putting on her usual aloof airs.
”Ah, yeah, yeah… rain’s part of life. No car, so…” began Waka, waving away the concern idly – but, she’d be pretty promptly distracted by the offer of lunch. Ah… but! She wasn’t a fool. This was one of those staple employer tests! Especially with a girl her size. She’d been wise enough to snack a bit beforehand to avoid embarrassing herself now. Of course, if things started to look bad… she was totally going to indulge herself. If every time her bosses made a dollar, she made one zeni; she was totally going to get a free lunch – and order plenty.
Err, but… recommendations? Well… she was the right person to ask that, huh? ”Hrm. Well… how about the mushr'm tea? It’s one of their speci'lties. Someth'ng from the West'rn Lands, I think?” Recalling the recommendation from long ago, Waka took such a safe answer – plus, it made her look smart, right? ”Dep'nds on your tastes, though. Uh… someth'ng like, herb'l teas to calm you down, and the rest to perk you up. Person'lly, I’ll go with the Chamomile Twist – it’s just someth'ng herb'l – and a lamingt'n. Eh… maybe two…!”
But, with that, she’d let Bass make his order, before sauntering to her usual table… a booth, right in the corner, with a nice view of the side window. Peace and quiet… and, for once, the fox looked a little less looming now that she was sat down. Though, she did wince a bit on the way… ech, her back was not thrilled about being against something right now. But, speaking of looks – she couldn’t help but notice Bass’s ensemble. Even without a suit on, he dripped with wealth… it was not a bad look, for sure, but – compared to Waka’s aging ko-gal outfit, it was like night and day. A flicker of irritation built up deep down in her, but… c’mon, she hung around retired mafia jack-offs now and then – this was no worse, right?
She hesitated, still a little awkward – but, she soon recouped her confidence. ”I’m not too used to these reunions, let’s say…” she began, pausing to consider her history with people – hm, no, she didn’t end on a good note with… just about anyone! ”But – I hear you’re doin' pretty well for yours'lf. I’m still down with the sedim'nt… but, I am alive, so you know. Silv'r lin'ngs. Rent’s just gone up and up, though… makes me wond'r if a tent might be bett'r for the commute. Heh.”
[504/1120]
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Post by Bass on Aug 4, 2021 11:20:10 GMT -8
Looking from Waka over towards the front counter, Bass listened to the suggestions. Desserts were the opposite of what kind of food he was used to, so he was practically clueless if he were to be left to his own decision. At that point he'd have either bought one of every item, or picked an item at random. The suggestion of mushroom tea was interesting to the Namekian. Mushrooms weren't something he ate much, and in a tea? It didn't have the greatest impression on him just by the name alone, but then again if he was going by the tasty sound of the name he'd pick something basic like chocolate chip cookies or an ice cream sandwich. He did find it amusing how Waka seemed to be having an internal struggle about how much to get, but it seemed overall he was in high spirits, so the slight smile could be about anything. Right? Needless to say, he practically forwarded her suggestions and wants out of a lunch to the employee at the front counter. A mushroom tea, a Chamomile Twist and a couple of lamingtons. Given these things were mostly pre-made the morning of, the Namekian simply had to pay a small sum for the items before receiving them in kind as another one of the employees had made the teas and whatnot during the transaction. Offering a smile he'd give his thanks to the workers, before turning about and heading for the table Waka was sitting at with a tray of goodies. Setting the tray down at the closer end of the table, he'd distribute the goods. The Chamomile Twist and lamingtons on a neat little paper plate went over to Waka, and Bass simply set his tea down on a provided coaster on the table before moving over to return the tray it came in on. Finally, he'd take a seat in the booth across from Waka. He listened to what she said first, trying a little dainty sip of his tea- which looked hilarious given his bulky hands from all the training he'd gone through. There may have even been scars if not for his Namekian regeneration, but the general tactile toughness worked hands get seemed present enough. His enthusiasm seemed to be defused a little when she expressed her situation. He remembered a time when he struggled with rent as well, it was part of the reason he had to split the rent with a stranger in the beginning. Of course by this point, that stranger was known to Bass as Icey, and was a good friend, but still. All he could immediately do was express his sympathy. But first he dismissively waved a hand. "Neither am I." Towards her comment on being used to reunions. He wasn't, but his statement really applied to any social interaction he was a part of. He was just wired different in some ways. "It sounds like things have been hard for you. I was wondering why I wasn't seeing you on the big screens yet." He said, a little curious. He wasn't fully aware of just how brutal the work she was having to struggle through was. He wanted to think Waka was joking about a tent, but he was on the line about whether it was serious or not. Rather, he didn't quite want to believe it was serious, because that'd mean she was in dire straights and impending financial ruin. "I imagine rent in West City is incredibly expensive, given Capsule Corp is based out of here. The place is practically famous because of that, more so than the other cities. Oh- uh, I've been doing good myself." He didn't elaborate on his own situation, his problems were trivial compared to the seriousness of being faced with the prospect of living on the streets. "Though landlords can be nasty to, most of them are independent entrepreneurs that worship capitalism. I've never really wanted to get into the business of housing tenants because of that. Needless to say... What's your work situation like right now? Not good, from the sounds of it, but... What are you dealing with?" He'd ask, giving her the stage. He wanted to hear about it so he didn't make any offensive assumptions, he figured it was the proper thing to do. 720 | 2,404 Wakana Waka
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Post by Wakana Waka on Aug 13, 2021 21:03:44 GMT -8
As the pair attempted to sit down and look inconspicuous, it really was like staring at a clown car… Waka was bigger by a bit, but once settled down she at least looked a little less menacing thanks to her weight. Bass, on the other hand, was still built like a tank, and his sweater could only do so much to hide that! There were more than a few odd looks from the waitresses and other customers, but… well, a celebrity has-been and a business leader was probably a fairly reasonable meet-up for West City’s standards. They still both looked ridiculous trying to handle normal teacups, but while Waka had some more experience, Bass had business acumen to his credit.
”Harr. Big screens… c’mon, I did one act'ng gig. I did… okay, sure, but I wouldn’ have gott'n that far without the direct'r’s enth'siasm…” bluffed Waka, although it was clear she was a little embarrassed by the attention. That series had ended up taking off a bit, but she only made it so far thanks to the director’s whimsical love for the odd. She’d ended up on TV and in a few ads since then, but by now she was a has-been, well and truly. Hm, though, she’d been able to live a little better for a few months, and lately she’d heard from that particular director that there might be another job coming up… b-but, she’d be keeping that a secret from Twofish for now, thanks! No good sinking your other prospects, right? And, to be honest, she didn’t think it’d take off…
Still, her mood had gotten a bit less defensive as Bass kept the conversation so light. ”Yeah, Capsule Corp is full of it, as usual. I’d love to move East, but I know the West'rn Lands are just as bad… at least the sub'rbs here are nice and you’re relat'vely unlikely to get stabbed. Plus, I’d starve on their serv'ng sizes.” Offering just a shrug for her half-hearted jokes, Waka idly sipped at her tea – it was upmarket for her, for sure, but it really was pretty amazing. A good pick-me-up… ”I think you’ve been doin' more than ‘good’, Mister Moment'm. I’ve seen your name in the magaz'nes. Still an up-and-com'r, just hid'ng in the marg'ns, cert'inly; but you don’t become a congl'merate by fluke.”
Indeed, for all her rough demeanour, Waka always had her eyes on the news – whenever she wasn’t stuck in a novel, anyway. She didn’t consider herself any kind of savvy investor, and her luck in such things was pretty atrocious… but, she did know how to talk the talk, and she did her research. Passive income, right? Well, whenever she had anything to actually spend on investments, anyway. That’d been the main place her TV money had went, in truth.
But, she couldn’t stay too grumpy as soon as the chance to badmouth landlords came up. For a moment, her bored expression broke and she looked like she was about to really give a serve… b-but, she hastily restrained herself! ”…Ahem. Landlords… well, I haven’t met a good one b'fore, but… I’m sure it’s not all bad…” bluffed the lady oh-so carefully, knowing this line of questioning could have just as easily been bait. Job interviews were a dangerous game. ”Yeah, but, work, huh? Well… I keep busy. Mostly… let’s say, ‘odd jobs’. Do up a house here, play pest contr'l there; maybe some part-time work for a few weeks if I’m real lucky.”
…the wound on her back stung as she tried to relax and lean back, but she braced herself and resisted wincing. Yeah… best not to mention that kinda work, right?
”…But, that’s just how the work'ng class life is, right? I can’t say I ever got far in educ'tion, and it’s hard to imagine a desk job at my siz–” Thankfully, Waka politely cut herself off there, having just enough social grace to gently avoid stepping on that landmine; ”Eh, at my – calibre. I’m just a punk, you know? I spook most people, understand'bly, so I’ve come to accept that it’s a perk rath'r than just a flaw. But, it’s not particul'rly congruent for white-coll'r stuff, harr harr.”
Pausing there, Waka made a lamington vanish as if it was a matter of course. ”Anyway, it’s enough to keep a roof over my head, but it’s not exactly a career traject'ry. Though, I’m one of millions who can say that. Life’s hard in Centr'l. Better than farm'ng in the South'rn Kingdoms or North'rn Lands, though? I can’t say for sure. Hm, but, that said, I might die without Majin Moo’s, so maybe it’s on me…”
[1906/1120]
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Post by Bass on Aug 17, 2021 12:24:10 GMT -8
Listening to Waka address the things he said, there were a few times his brow would raise a little. Not necessarily in a judgemental fashion, but rather a little bit of surprise. Particularly most notably were when Waka mentioned him doing more than good. Certainly she wasn't wrong, but he seemed apprehensive about the subject as he carried on listening. He was also genuinely surprised when Waka went over her TV prospects. He'd at least made the time to keep up with the series. Hearing that after the show Wakana'd just ended up in the dust without any further job offers in the industry was certainly a conundrum. He racked his head thinking of why- though it was totally possible knowing what Waka was capable of she'd suplexed a director or coworker after they'd said something to irritate her. That might get her on a blacklist. "If it was the same guy I worked with when I was there, I guess he was pretty...-" He fished for the right word, "-animated? Even so, you seemed to do well, so I'm surprised. Though I guess you are a niche casting." He really didn't want to crack open that can of worms, he hoped she understood the objective fact that her stature and size made fitting roles more difficult for physiological reasons. Action movies though? "Have you tried auditioning for action stuff? Hm..." It was a difficult problem, and Bass seemed to quietly raise the minuscule (but normal sized) teacup up to his face to take a sip. It didn't sit right with him that she wasn't cast, based on the impression he'd gotten of her acting. With Waka's lighthearted joke regarding serving sizes (which didn't feel like a joke to the Namekian) he laughed lightly and briefly before responding. "Hm. I mean given what you've told me even if the portions were there... It's tough at the moment, yeah?" He wanted to be cautious around the subject, but he also meant to be informed so he could better approach the problem. "That being said, the other areas aren't too bad. Southern Lands, Northern Lands and Pilaf Land have a lot for various reasons. But yeah, Central City is nicely built and managed." He said, despite the underlying issues of poverty. Ironically, he felt the nicer a place looked, the deeper one needed to dig to find the problems. Based on what he'd heard from Wakana Central City was no different, he was sure there were plenty of poor scraping by like her. Nodding a little modestly, with his hands wrapped around the teacup given the warmth he'd speak further. "As for my company, yeah, we're doing fantastic. No need to regurgitate what the sites and magazines share well enough. We are thinking of setting up a media company out in the East though." Talking about success wasn't something he was comfortable with around Wakana considering her streak of misfortune; but the comment deserved an honest response, they were doing well for themselves. Seeing Waka's placid expression break was surprising by itself, he was worried she was about to leap over the table to try and knock his teeth out until she settled back down and spoke. Based on the subject matter, it was easily to tell she was fluffing up the words a bit, causing the Namekian to just give a cheeky smile. He'd been there before, so he wasn't entirely unfamiliar with the kind of nonsense renters had to deal with sometimes. He wanted to fix it, but that was a complicated business model to have people passionate and available at all times of the day to help tenants, another problem he wanted his company to tackle. There was also the matter of landlords raising rent for 'inflation' but tacking on an extra 20% every year because of a government imposed cap. For the most part it sounded like the equivalent of mowing lawns for the Summer; Waka's current work situation. What was more curious was the short lived part time work. Was it clumsiness? Her attitude pissing off employers? He could think of a few reasons, she did have a rather abrasive personality when she chose to get passionate after all. He'd respond to her, "I see. Sounds difficult." He eyeballed Waka as the type to be dignified enough to not want his pity, so he didn't elaborate and give it. What he did elaborate on were her career prospects. She'd altered her verbal trajectory suddenly, prompting a moments confusion from Bass, but he soon understood as he went to respond. "I can't speak for other more traditional companies, but there's a desk if you want one at my company. I started off in North City in a similar way. Just putting that out there, if I'm correct I'm not sure you'd want a job pushing papers anyway." He said with a brief chuckle. "But that brings us to the main thing I called you about. You've probably heard about our most recent project in Central City. A fast food joint specializing in Southern Island cuisine. Burritos, Tacos, Churros, Quesadilla's, that kind of thing. No prior experience necessary, training's provided and the position's flexible. You could be a waiter, a cook, it's up to you. Like all places Momentum Corp has, there's room for advancement as well." He said. The topic of pay was still out there, no sense getting to that point if she just didn't see herself liking the job or the potential income. "Oh right, we'd be opening right after the World Martial Arts Tournament, so there's time to think about it yet if you need time."He couldn't help but notice Wakana'd atomized the piece of cake. Being the one that was better off, he had no problem speaking up and offering to buy more. "If you'd like to get another order, I'll cover it." He could technically get something as well, but he had a similar problem of a big appetite- not even really comparable to Wakanas, but enough to make any place he seriously wanted food from to give him strange looks, probably a problem she had to put up with an accept as well. 1,015 | 3,419 Wakana Waka
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Post by Wakana Waka on Aug 22, 2021 0:21:19 GMT -8
The talk of more movie business made Waka give an awkward look. ”Ah… yeah, I’ve been an extra now 'nd then. ‘Cause, y’know, ev'ry movie’s gotta have the big dumb one, right? And there ain’t many who’re bigg'r… though, I read a lot of books, y’know! Self-taught, see?” she boasted, rather suddenly – she really was proud of her reading! And, to be honest, she was not too bothered by being pidgeonholed. But, y’know… there was only so many times you could watch a big fox get beaten up. ”School, though… wond'r if it’s like in the stories, huh? I’d ask, but… I-I dunno how Nam'kians do it. I saw in one of those int'rviews that you were from the Dem'n Kingd'ms and stuff, rath'r than being some lucky pup from 'round West City. Still, you seem bett'r with numb'rs than I’ve ev'r been, so it can’t be so bad.”
Discussions of socio-economic regions was not lost on the girl in spite of her comments about her own education, but she had little to add. She didn’t travel much, unsurprisingly – couldn’t afford to take a vacation! Well… kinda. ”Yeah, Pilaf isn’t too bad. I worked there for a bit. Middle managem'nt treats you like actual people, but there ain’t any freedom, and they don’t put up with many mistakes. Pay’s garb'ge too, but that’s to goad you into doin' their employee discount stuff. It’s kinda like a black hole of work. Work at their stores and hotels, then spend your paycheck in the exact same places.” Waka tapped her chin on that note, before eradicating another lamington. ”But, it’s not as tacky as people say. The und'rwat'r place kicks ass. I’d kill to see views like that ev'ry day, instead of just path'tic green'ry adorn'ng empty suburbs.”
Bass’s comments on his own company and his sympathies didn’t sit well with the fox, unsurprisingly – she was a selfish soul, even she’d admit, so hearing about others successes with a pinch of pity didn’t thrill her too much. But, she knew well enough to bite her tongue, no matter what was on her mind. The offer of a desk made her raise an eyebrow, but Bass swiftly answered his own question. ”Yeah, well – as I said, I don’t know a thing about numb'rs besides balanc'ng my bills,” grumbled the girl, despite her earlier talk of stock options and investment planning. Though, financial savvy was different to algebra. ”I don’t think there’s a supervis'r in the world that’d be glad to see me beh'nd a desk. Plus, I’m a grow'ng girl… they’d need a new desk in a year or two.”
Waka didn’t think to specify that she meant in terms of her height, and really didn’t help matters by erasing another lamington from the world of the light. But on that topic – the matter of a supposedly more fitting job opportunity…
On one hand – Waka was not senseless. Cynical, bitter, and spiteful; but not so much to bury her head in the sand and wallow in failure. She genuinely tried to improve her life, and was still trying. This was an opportunity, and it was put on the table by networking… that was usually a good sign, even if ‘Twofish’ was such a stranger. But on the other hand – cooking or waiting in a fast food joint was… pretty bad, for someone of her age and experience. This reeked of minimum wage misery, especially with no prior experience necessary and the word advancement tossed around. She didn’t turn her nose up at chefs, even at fast food – she ate at Majin Moo’s when she could afford it! – but, she knew it wasn’t a career.
”…Hrm. You came all the way out here to talk to me about a fast food job, huh?” remarked the fox with a bitter expression, seeming deeply unimpressed by that particular thought. ”Not sure if you’re painfully earn'st or a jack-off. I couldn’t care less for South'rn Islands cuisine, and even less for cook'ng it myself… and, well, do I look like I’m gonna fit in a waitr'ss’ short skirt and rollerskates? This used to be a decent length skirt, y’know.”
But, she paused there, her dire frown turning into deep thought. ”I’m no fool. I’ve been dragg'd around thanks to busin'ss buzzwords and shallow jobs bef're, got it? I won’t be mess'd with as easily as some college grad. And I need a liv'ng wage, not a token wage.” She offered her warning with snarled words… but she did not say no. ”I’m not stupid enough to ignore an opportun'ty, either. If you’re for real, Twofish, I’ll wanna see some dec'nt paperw'rk to back up your claims and I’ll not leave you want'ng for questions.”
She finished there with a little huff… and cooled off quite promptly. ”Eh, right, the World Martial thingy. It’s tacky these days, but… that’s where you’d wanna be if you wanna be a real celeb.” mused Waka, though she’d only offer a shrug. ”Should give you plenty of time to consid'r your offer, Twofish. Let’s see those ben'fits and salary writt'n up!”
Though, on the topic of considering an offer, she’d bite her tongue at the suggestion of ordering more… t-there was still one lamington left, but – she was obviously still a little peckish. Eh, but… she had to look professional now! ”Err… I-I’ll just refill my tea, huh?”
[909/2815]
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Post by Bass on Sept 8, 2021 11:51:09 GMT -8
The overall reception of what he was saying started to paint a picture for Bass. He hadn't even filled out the details and he noted she was getting worked up over assumptions on details he'd never clarified. The best thing he could do- and what he wanted to do to just get along and be well was to not fight fire with fire. He could smooth over those assumptions in a minute, but Waka was a strange one. In a way maybe it was a good thing she could vent and let off steam once in a while. Bass figured from things she said she spent a lot of time playing second fiddle as an extra, that kind of limelight understandably might foster some frustration. Though his thoughts were his own, his words however came out in response to the Beastwoman-Majin's own. There was an extra added moment of silence as he mulled over phrasing. He knew how explosive she could be. "I'll give you the details, sure. For right now just know I wouldn't have brought it up if I didn't think you were fit for the job." He figured he might as well start looking for the information she wanted to see. A job opportunity wasn't normally something that came with too much paperwork- maybe something to share banking information for direct deposit, but that was about it. Movie and TV gigs? Absolutely there was a lot. Bass's upstart business sort of lied in the middle. The people that worked there weren't college grads, but rather handpicked individuals to suit the needs at hand, and they were given competitive wages compared to what they were doing previously- often professional work. The waiter would come by as he did and he'd glance up. "Oh, she'd like another tea please, thank you." Before digging around a little more. Eventually he tucked out a piece of paper and slid it over for Waka to digest. Depending on if she seemed engrossed in the document or skimmed would determine if he spoke meanwhile, but regardless he'd continue addressing some of the other things she said. "You mentioned one thing that might help put things into perspective. Where I came from. Never had money, I didn't even value it in the beginning. I wasn't free thinking or part of Earthling society, but a sequence of circumstances got me to North City, and I started a career with no experience at an accounting firm. They provided the training." He said, having summarized a gargantuan story into a couple of sentences- he just wanted to get where he was coming from across, however. "I know what the working person goes through. The tiny apartment, rationing groceries, in the worst of times you're walking because you don't have the spare money for gas or public transportation. The worst thing to, getting a paper in the door saying your rents going up." He said, resting his elbows down on the table as the fingers of either hand interlaced with one another for his chin to rest on. "Not just the job I'm offering you, but my entire corporation when I took the reigns is dedicated to making the world better. I'm not talking about punching aliens, but real change that everyone feels. That's why the position you'd be in, and all of the jobs my company offers will outpace your expectations." He seemed serious- maybe his words were naive or optimistic, but he'd definitely made headway by creating thousands of jobs. Finishing his own drink he'd call over the waiter. "I'd like to try five of those things she's having, the uh... The lamingtons I think they're called. Thank you." He said, turning his attention back to Waka. "You can fill any role at the location." The paper described that statement in formal and intricate detail- but Bass wasn't lying. "You make what you want. Tell me, and we'll write it in. What are you worth to yourself? It's not a test, I'm not trying to get in your head." The documentation had a blank space to be filled in, a fixed salary that the employee would be making. "I won't accept any number less than double what you'd normally earn from a job like this. You won't find that on the paper." He then considered another point of hers. "Part of the reason I came to offer you the job is because it does require some heavy lifting and big hands. No normal Earthling can carry some of the food around. The skirt will be made to fit you if that's what you wanted to do, but the ball's in your court. You'd be dealing with Martial Artists frequently, but normal people can get normal portioned food as well." The documentation didn't mention anything about a strength requirement, but it didn't need to. It did however mention and make clear that a large amount of clients would be Martial Artists or fighters, and to expect things to be hectic infrequently. "And I suppose it's ideal that you're not interested in the food, since you mentioned how destructive spending at the same place you earn zeni can be."Bass leaned back as the deserts arrived that he'd ordered for himself. Thanking the waiter for a third time now, he'd try one. "Not used to eating non-meats, but this is... Something." He remarked, before carrying on. "Anyways."There was a pause as he reflected on the smaller things Waka said. "Normal supervisors, you're right. Though ours expect the unexpected. Desk aren't something to worry about, your old one would go to a different employee and you'd get a new one. Finances aren't too difficult- it's like managing your banking or money on a larger scale. It can get technical, but you don't need a degree or years of study. And... You said you taught yourself to read? That's impressive. Black Heart Namekians sort of have their abilities imprinted by King Piccolo, so I suppose I took that for granted." He said, dialing back just a little. He was admittedly half focused on examining the flavor profile of the desserts he was eating. Glancing towards her, he'd pause. "I imagine you're still skeptical. Well, I'll tell you this. Most of the money I have didn't come from my company. Some of our places operate at a temporary loss while they get started and established, and I personally pay the difference. I take from the truly rich. Used a contractual detail to get a 32 million zeni payout from Pilaf Corp, so, y'know." He said in the simplest of terms. Once more he found himself equal parts anxious and curious as to how she'd respond. Waka to Bass was... Predictably unpredictable, maybe she'd chew his ear off, maybe she'd be sensible, maybe she'd stand up and walk out on him- he had no idea. 1,144 | 4,563 Wakana Waka
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Post by Wakana Waka on Sept 25, 2021 3:08:31 GMT -8
Bass wasn’t wrong that Waka was explosive, and it seemed like she’d gotten a bit too comfortable with this particular interview… but, she considered such caution to be sensible, in spite of her complaints. Though, it was becoming particularly clear that for all her experience, she had little sympathy or understanding for the people in the roles above those she’d ended up in. She wouldn’t retort to his calm insistence, but she seemed particularly wary as she took the job description. Sure, they were here on decent terms, and more information was always better; however, she had learned that the written word was no less proficient at conning someone as the spoken one.
Admittedly, she didn’t end up scouring the document then and there – but, her reasoning was more that it’d be rude than out of a lack of interest in details. Particularly as Bass then had the chance to give his life’s story… she was brusque, certainly, but she wasn’t clueless. To her credit, she’d patiently let him finish before she spoke up again. Or, well, grumbled up again. ”Right… ‘mak'ng the world bett'r.’ I hear that an awf'l lot, y’know. Capsule, Pil'f, Ox Corp, and even the West'rn would-bes... sure, medic'ne’s plodd'ng forw'rd, and I’m sure net speeds are fast'r than ev'r – but, there’s still so many kids like me. I don’t think any amount of burr'to merch'ndis'ng is gonna change that. They say you can’t buy happin'ss, but sure seems like the world’s set up to make me think a paych'ck is bett'r than a birthday.”
But, Waka’s tone was less frustrated than her words; instead coming off as resigned and even a bit gloomy. As Bass continued, she followed along on the sheet – she wasn’t too swayed by his words and promises. Yet… it was clear that her defences were gradually being whittled down. With a refilled cup of tea in hand, she looked like she’d cooled down considerably since her earlier complaints. Given a little time to observe her up-close, that bored expression she always had didn’t hide as much as it usually seemed to.
What hid even less than her supposedly inexpressive face, though, were those ears and that tail – for all her grumpiness, Bass’ compliment on her reading made her vulpine features perk up noticeably. However, she’d stay silent until his final point… and then some, as she hesitated, clearly mulling over her response. ”I’m gonna be sceptic'l of anyone who knocks at my door with an off'r… so, someone who offers double my salary? I’ll be expect'ng the curtain to fall aft'r I leave and reveal where you hid the eleph'nt.” rumbled the girl, albeit once more seeming more uneasy than irritated. ”You’ve thought this through. I’d say you’re a bit of an ideal'st… but, you don’t oft'n get as far as you have without a bit of wishful think'ng. That said… since you’re being honest, I’m gonna be honest, too.”
”Aft'r last year – I don’t care about anything but me.”
It was a bold, pitiful claim; and one that Waka didn’t really have her whole heart behind – but, she was pretty sure it sounded cool, and would make her feelings about the deal as clear as they could be. ”I put my bet on the great'r good for a while, but I didn’t see any divid'nds. So, if I’m work'ng for you – I’m work'ng for the pay, not any prom'ses. Wheth'r it’s out of Pilaf’s deep pock'ts or yours.” She gave a deep frown, displeased by her own words. However… it was the way things had to go, if she wanted to keep herself alive. ”Skirt, desk, sup'rvis'r – it’s all doable at the right price. Nice and simple. Too simple, maybe. But I think that should make it easy for you to get your head 'round.”
Fishing out a pen – never leave the house without one! – from her sweater, Waka gently wrote down a number, as requested. And, perhaps surprisingly, it wasn’t mainly zeroes.
”880,000 zeni, annual. That’s about double. From there – I’ll make up my mind when I’m on the job. I won’t look a gift horse in the mouth… but, you, too, should be wary. If you don’t hold tight, you’ll get tak'n for a ride.”
Huffing to herself, Waka seemed… maybe not pleased, but satisfied. Really, the best outcome for any business meeting. However – she seriously had to object ---!
”A-And, what kind of a food review is – ‘something’!?”
[750/3565]
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Post by Bass on Sept 4, 2022 14:33:52 GMT -8
Waka was right on one account. Bass was an idealist, motivated by ambitions that are seemingly impossible to attain. Sights set so high that even making it halfway lands one in a place like the one he's in. While she spoke again the Namekian simply listened, fingers interlacing with one another to form a bridge just above his side of the table. Some of what the other said seemed to elicit something of a downcast expression. A subtle frown indicating a modicum of empathy for the state of mind Waka seemed to be in. Taking a moment to gather his thoughts whilst seeing the written in number, there was a moments pause before he simply gave a nod. "Yeah, we can do this. You'll have access to benefits as well, so that'll all be covered by us and not out of pocket. Dental, medical, any specific dietary needs that aren't being met. We try to take good care of our own, a healthy employee is best for all sides- but it's more than that." Bass said, thumbs pressing against one another as he addressed the sensitive topic Waka had brought up. He wasn't quite direct with this, skirting about before getting to the point. "In some ways, they're right. However most of the people that say that don't know what it's like to not have money. Money can't buy happiness, but a lack of it causes sadness. I'm lucky, if push comes to shove I can live off of one of the few things without a price tag in the world, sunlight. However I've heard stories from current employees. Having to eat the cheapest food to be able to live and pay rent. Not able to get medical check-ups or dental care. And all of that? It comes back for you. Makes you feel miserable, tears what little you have left down even more. So yes, not having money is a sad sad thing, in a world where you can move further with a full wallet than with your feet." He said, tapping his thumbs together a couple of times as his furrowed brows levelled out. "That's the world we live in. Truth be told, most of what I have isn't from my companies. My success came from elsewhere. Being clever, travelling the world, conning snobs. You're smart enough to have picked up that the company I'm hiring you for isn't exactly sustainable. It caters to primarily niche martial artists, requires millions in construction costs for advanced countermeasures, and requires a staff full of people with specific skillsets. To think it'd draw consistent profits would be naive, a best case scenario is it breaks even." A hand reached up to rub at his brow, tone having been rather dry for the duration. Yet he chose to break up the atmosphere for a moment, a light smile gracing his features as he went back to her comment about his Lamington review. Scratching the side of his brow while thinking up a defence, he simply looked to the side and let out a bit of laughter before looking back. "Yeah, the food thing is a bit of a double edged sword. I... have a different sense of taste than I think most do. It's good but I uh... Yeah sweets have never been the best thing as far as my experiences go. Maybe it's the Demon Clan in me that has me liking steaks and all that. But hey, it was still good." He looked a little worried how she might respond to that, and so he added a little more, "But hey, that means more for you." Letting out a sigh with a hand to his cheek now, his digits reached forward and slid the now filled out page towards him. Taking out a pen of his own, he went and signed the page at the employer line. Spinning it around, she slid it back to Waka. "Only elephant I can think of in this job are the customers themselves. Martial Artists, you know how they are. Could go smoothly or, could go many different ways. You know how it is. We've installed a lot of countermeasures to handle these things, but perhaps someday the saying if there's a will there's a way will apply." He said with a shrug. His features softened, and he rested his hands on the table. "Look. At the end of the day I'm hiring you because of who you are and what you've been going through. You're not the first, you're not the last. It's not pity, it's Humanity. The world can be cruel with those that have a good heart but don't fit the box it constrains them to. I think you're one of those people. Despite what you've said, you have a beautiful soul and a brilliant mind. You've been hurt a lot, and I'm sorry for that. All I ask is that you start at this company with an open mind. I'll always be a call away if anything goes south. If once you're on your feet you want to try something else, my company is expanding globally. I don't want to talk your ears off, but I never tell a lie. If there comes a time you can trust me, give me a call, and I can tell you my plans to make it so the people of this generation, kids in the situation you grew up in, can live a better life."If she signed the paper, the Namekian would take the page and peel them apart. Identical copies for both of them to keep if desired. "I think that's about it. I'd love to keep talking, but if you have other plans that's fine with me." He would say, leaning back in the booth while rubbing the bridge of his nose. For better or worse, this entire interaction was a reminder of what it was all for. It was easy to get trapped in complacency in the position he was in. 1,002 | 5,565 Wakana Waka
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