Path of the Vampire forum

Cristiana heard the knock at the door, putting away the papers she was shuffling around waiting for the reporter from the Harper Rock News to show up away into a drawer. She rose and opened the door to the white office, that contrasted the darker setting inside the club itself. She motioned for the woman to come in shaking her hand.

"Thank you for seeing me on such short notice." Said the reporter, "I really appreciate when local business owners take the time to meet with us. So please, let's not waste your time or mine!" She spoke clearly and crisply getting right down to business. Cristiana pointed out the chair for her to sit down and took up the spot behind her desk once more.

The reporter flipped open her notepad and turned on the recording device, "I hope you don't mind that I record these for later use and to get the quotes exactly right, so no one can say I infringed on any rights." She explained.

Cristiana, who'd barely spoken a work finally piped up, "No, it's fine." As always, she was brief about it.

"Firstly, for the record, please state your name and age." She was getting straight into the interview, but she did have many more to conduct today.

"I am Cristiana Cross, and 28 years old." She said leaning forward toward the recorder.

The woman chuckled to herself, "You don't have to lean toward it, it will pick your voice up fine if you just relax."

She smiled and sat back crossing her nimble fingers over her stomach trying to appear relaxed. "Would you care for a drink while we do this?" Cristiana pointed out the cart of drinks she had brought in from the backstage area for this meeting. "We have water, even a few finger foods in case you are hungry?"

The woman in a similar suit as Crissy's nodded, "Thank you. I did skip lunch today while preparing." Crissy rose up getting them both a small plate of the mini sandwiches and a glass of wine. After resuming her place from behind the desk, she awaited the next series of questions.

"So is there anything I should call you, a nickname everyone uses for you?" She shot the next question out to Cristiana.

"Most everyone calls me Crissy, I like it because it gives a nice homely and relaxed atmosphere to the bar. It makes us closer if they don't view me as the Bosslady, but I do have a few on staff who call me that as well. Just Crissy or Mrs. Cross is fine." She spoke clear so the machine would pick her voice up nicely.

"Oh so you are married?" The woman perked up.

"Yes, I have been married for a bit now." She pointed out the rings on her finger. "He is and always will be the love of my life. We spent a year going back and forth, wanting each other but staying friends then finally with the help of a friend of mine, we took the plunge into a relationship. A decent amount of time after that we married into bliss." She smiled to the woman who was nibbling but writing like a fiend even though this was being recorded. She lifted the glass taking a sip but never once taking her eyes off the woman. It could be a sign of nervousness, but she wasn't nervous at all. Crissy sat there sizing up the woman, listening to her heart rate and seeing at what point the questions would turn into something brutal and nasty.


"Alright," She nodded and shrugged, "What is your position here at the club?" She sat prepped and waiting.

"I am the Co- Owner of the Metronome Club along with my long time friend Ms. Avila. I do the general management of the club like bar tending, doing some of the clerical work and stocking the bar, working closely with the staff on nights we do inventory and keeping the bar floating just trying to earn a small profit like any other business owner in town. We like to host events around town and get our club on the lips of every potential customer. We want to remain one of the most popular clubs in the city, especially with all the competition that there is." She said this almost like it was rehearsed but it just came naturally to her.

"What is your favorite drink here in the bar? Is it your signature cocktail? And if not what is?"

"My favorite drink is Absinthe. It's a great cocktail to have with friends or even on those long nights. The version we carry is the highest alcohol content the law allows. But my signature drink a sweet Strawberry Daiquiri. I make them fresh with strawberries we buy from local farmers here in the city. I buy them in bulk and freeze the rest for year round use." She smiled politely.

"What is your favorite band who has played here?"

"I have to say Ms. Avila lights up the room when she performs here as a Jazz Singer. She really knows how to work the audience and is a classic talent."

The reporter immediately began making notes on that before looking up and shooting off another question from her list. "What is your biggest bar pet peeve?"

"Aside from not being tipped, when someone tries to hit on you while you are working. It's like I am here doing my job serving you a drink and not serving myself up. I don't mind being a bartender, psychologist and personality extraordinaire, but please, it's my job to be nice and flirt a little. Please don't think that just because I am doing that, I am meaning I want to be with you."

"What is the most memorable moment you can recall while working here?"

She sat back thinking about it for a moment, "The day I got locked inside my office when someone tried to rob the place! That was both frightening and exciting, yet here I was trapped in my office. One of the security guards locked me in while the rest of the staff talked the guy into handing over his gun. They had the guy handcuffed and waiting by the time the police arrived. My staff is very efficient."

"That does seem frightening, has there been any other incidents that stand out?"

"I would have to say when the man went on a shooting spree right outside on the street. The cops had the entire area on lock down. I was at an event with my husband that police were swarming outside. By the time I got here the entire situation was diffused. But I heard it was quite a situation. We are just another normal business, we get hacked, robbed, machines break down or vandalized." She shrugged. "You make due and move on!"

"What is your most remember-able party moment?"

She smiled, "Back in 2013 my husband and I came to the Christmas party as Mr. and Mrs. Claus. On a lost bet he had to play Ms. Claus. We played a round of guess the color panties he wore. It was hilarious! Everyone in the bar was laughing." Even at the thought, she laughed remembering it. "I didn't think my very tall and muscular man would pull it off, but he knows how to take a joke. He has a great sense of humor!" She couldn't help but to laugh like it happened yesterday.

"I don't have to many more questions so let's get into the nitty gritty, What about the rumors of your offhand work ethics?"

"Honestly this is news to me. Everyone of my staff is like family, and some are family to me. If anyone had a problem, all they ever needed to do was come to me and we'd work it out. I've never done anything illegal, my books are kept pristine. I really don't have any clue what you are talking about." It didn't phase her even though the woman reporters heart was racing.

"Wasn't it you who filed two missing person reports on staff member who seemingly disappeared off the face of the earth?"

"Yes, a few years ago. I even aided the police in their investigation and offered reward money from my own pocket for their safe return. To this day, there have been no leads to their sudden disappearance." She actually had the missing persons reports in her desk and fished them out. "They are sorely missed and still, if anyone has any news on them, the reward still stands."

The reporter looked over the paper, "Fifty thousand dollars is a large sum for some missing employees."

"I told you, we are like a family here. I would do the same for any child or sibling."

The news reporter mumbled something under her breath, Crissy could only guess she had been trying to throw her off with the way her heart raced. Yet, Crissy sat there calm but with a generally concerned look on her face for the well being of her former employees.

"Do you have any words of wisdom for our readers based on your experience here?"

"Stay positive. A smile is contagious. If you're happy, your customers stay happy."

The reporter finished off her small plate and drink, she shut off the recording device and stuffed it into her pocket. "Thank you so much for this interview." She said reaching a hand over the desk. "I hope none of the questions bothered you."

Crissy reached out shaking her hand firmly, "Not at all. You are just doing your job. Thank you for taking the time in taking an interest in our establishment."

"Oh, one more thing," She stopped on the way out the door, "Do you mind if I talk to Ms. Avila and the rest of the staff? I just have a few questions for them as well."

Cristiana shrugged coolly and shook her head back and forth, "Not at all, please do. And let me know when the article is going to be published please. It would be a nice addition to hang on the office wall."

"Of course! Have a wonderful evening Ms. Cr... Crissy." She shut the door behind her as she left Crissy standing in the office.

I'd been on my feet constantly for the last several hours, helping this customer with an order of snacks and a couple of beers or that one, with the tab going on $75.00 now, because they lost their job. It's been a cruel economy for some time now and frankly, keeping a job has been a dog eat dog world.

As I finish busing a table and collecting a..."SWEET! Fifty dollars!"...tip, I happen to look up and notice a rather nicely dressed lady with a brief case leaving my momma's office. I approach the bar with the plates in hand in a stack and three glasses in the other brushing right past her. As soon as I set everything on the bar for Mikhail, I feel a light tap on my shoulder.

"Excuse me Miss, I was wondering if I might ask you a few questions. I'm a reporter with the Harper rock news."

After receiving a large tip I'd answer a question or two for anyone. Turning I smile and nod approval and lead the way to a clean empty table. "Will this work for you? I can have Mikhail turn the music down a bit also."

"The table is great and no, the music is just fine. It'll add a little nuance to the story I'm working on. By the way, do you mind if I tape this for future reference? No misquotes and all?"

Sitting I slightly panic with the thought of a recorder. My voice always sounds different on recorders. I've always hated them. "As long as you can make my voice sound great." I chuckle briefly, leaning back in the chair waiting for whatever this woman had in store for me.

"I wouldn't worry about it one bit if I were you. I'll be the only one listening to it. Now, what do you say, we get on with this interview? We both are busy."

"Sounds great! What would you like to know?" I smiled and blushed slightly.

"First off, what should I call you? Do you have a nickname?" She got down to business. Friendly enough, but she certainly wasn't trying to be my best friend.

"Well, most people call me Elsa. My closest friends call me Els for short. You may call me whatever you wish however."

"Alright Elsa, are you married?" She kinda leaned in a little and had that little smirky grin.

I giggle. "Oh heavens no! I'm probably the most available girl in the city."

She feigns the look of shock. "What? YOU? Not married? And no boyfriend?"

"Nope. Haven't had one for a while either. I don't suppose you could make this into a dating site article could you?" Giggling and blushing again, I recant. "No, never mind, Momma would have a fit if I did something like that."

Cocking her head to one side, she looks concerned. "Who's your 'Momma'?"

A little confusion sets in. "Well you know her. You just came out of her office a little bit ago. Crissy. She's my Momma. She wants to make sure that I find someone trustworthy and warm hearted. She won't have a child of hers doing the internet dating thing and taking a chance on getting hurt. Nope. Not my Momma." My eyes twinkled.

Relaxing a bit, "Oh, okay, thank you for clearing that up for me. Now, next question; what is your job here at the club?"

Shrugging my shoulders I look up and think a little. Honestly, I wasn't sure what my job title happened to be. I try to help with everything I can around here. "Well, I think the most accurate titles would be sales and bartending. I do however try to help with anything else that needs to be done." I motion with my hand towards the tables. "Like, busing the tables. I enjoy it. I get to meet new people."

"You certainly keep busy then don't you?" A smile creeps across her lips.

"Why yes, yes I do. I love every minute of it too."

"Okay, so what is your favorite drink here?"

"Wow...I don't normally drink very much. When a customer insists on buying me one, I normally go with a Sex on the Beach." Now I laugh from embarrassment.

Chuckling, thankfully she moves onto the next question. "So what's your favorite band who's played here"

"That's an easy one. My Auntie Tempe. Temperance Avila is the greatest!" Again, my eyes sparkle.

"I'm going to have to make it a point of stopping in when I hear she's singing. You're not the first who's praised her voice." The woman jots a few notes then looks back up at me. "What is your biggest pet peeve here at the club?"

"You know, I've worked with the public for a long time now. I'm pretty patient you know. I think the one thing that just really irks me though, is when the guys get bombed and they try groping me. I can handle them making passes at me. They're drunk. They say stupid things. No biggie, just words. When they try to physically do something to me, no. That's when I have the bouncer escort them outside."

"Have you or anyone else here hit them for doing things like that?" Even with the music playing, I could hear her heart thumping loud and fast. The euphoria of the large tip has worn off by now and I completely understand what this woman is fishing for.

"Absolutely not! Violence is not tolerated in this club. Period. As I said, they are escorted out. If however someone is too drunk to drive, we do call a taxi for them."

Taken aback slightly and looking a little disappointed in not getting anything juicy to write about she moves on. "What are your most memorable moments since you've been working here?"

"Gosh, whenever I've been here, things have been fairly quiet. Although, I'll remember the tip I received today from table five for a good long time!" I nod emphatically.

Still disappointed in no juicy-ness, "What is your most remember-able party moment here?"

This brings a soft smile to my face. "Valentines Day a year ago. Nothing tremendously exciting, just a sweet night...and my last date till present day." I nod.

"Wow. A little over a year now? Wow." Obviously I was NOT the person to talk to for gossip. "Alright, one final question, do you have any words of wisdom for our readers based on your experience here at the club?"

"Let them know that they'll always receive great service here. We consider our customers as our friends. We strive to give everyone who enters those doors and pleasurable experience."

"That was great. Thank you so much for your time. I do hope you find someone special. You deserve some happiness." She smiles, turns off the recorder and places it in her bag.

"Thank you very much! Off to work I go!" With that I gingerly skip off across the dance floor.

A sound proof barrier was broken when she opened the door and descended down the stairwell to the main portion of the club. Temperance had stopped in early to check classroom arrangements and supplies. She was a thin fragile appearing women of average height. Today she was dressed in customary attire. Black from head to toe, material lie straight across her collarbone down to the A-line shape of the dress which ended just below the knee. Dark brunette locks fasted behind her ear on one side and loose to the other. Tiny pitter of her heels sounded more dense as they landed to the redwood floors. The stairway is located just right of The Metronome’s entrance. It was there she spotted a business-like woman carrying a briefcase checking out the entertainment fliers on the advertisement wall. Socially apt, Temperance stopped to speak with her, ”Good evening, Mam. I hope you join us on one of those nights.”

The reporter turned her chin, “I had heard about a Ms. Avila who performs here, though I do not see her name.”

Temperance sensed a bit of disappointment in the woman's voice. ”Well, let me assist you, I’m Ms. Avila.” She gave a genuinely warm smile and held out her hand.

“Oh! oh,” she sounded as though her excitement had to be recomposed or toned down. “Pleased to meet you! I report for Harper Rock Sun, I had arrangements with Crissy to interview the staff for our paper. Do you have time to speak now? Promise it will not take long.” A bit of hurry in her voice, but resolution that she would be able to meet with nearly three-quarters of the staff in one visit.

”Of course, I’ve always time,” Temperance responded and gestured towards the center of the club, ”Please, have you had a tour of the place?”

“No, not yet.” She walked aside Temperance. They entered the bar in which Elsa was busy tending.

”Well, I’ll not keep you long but how about a quick poke around. Should you return for an event you’ll know where to go then.”

She guided her along the front of the bar towards a smaller room where private performances are held. It had limited seating and looked rather well kept. Second smaller section from the main bar was their game room,”Occasionally a few sharks can be found circling these tables.”

The reporter nodded and followed along. "Do you play?"

Third room was towards the backside of the bar. Temperance stuck a key in through the turnstile to let them in. Just beyond was a coat check then the entrance to their VIP room. ”Occasionally, but I am not as good. Here is where almost all of our entertainment performs.”

“Even you.” She spoke while glancing around at the large space.

”Yes, even me. Please, sit,” The brunette gestured to a red corner booth. ”It’s much calmer here.”

The woman slipped into the booth across from Temperance. She placed a recorder down to the table top and flipped open to a clean page of her notepad. ”I hope you do not mind if I record the interview, it will ensure I do not put any context out of place.”

”Not at all, dear.”

Getting down to business, she nodded and spoke. “Please state your full name and age.”

Temperance repositioned herself in the booth and placed both palms to the table. ”Age?. Not sure the public should know such things about a lady.” She grinned. ”My name is Temperance Avila.”

“Temperance is an uncommon name, do you go by any other?”

”Close friends call me Tempy or Temp, though I’m quite fond of its full form.”

“Well, Ms. Temperance, I’ve heard a bit about your singing or was it performing talents from my last interviewees?”

”You could say both. As you noted on our entertainment schedule, I’m not performing this particular month, however occasionally I can take stage between performances who are scheduled too far apart. Those are random nights, we usually try to keep a tight schedule but sometimes equipment breaks or band members go mis… um. call in sick.”

“Oh okay, I’ll have to check in again to see about the time you will be on stage. So, I see no ring on that finger of yours, are you single?"

Temperance shot a look to the women, such questions to ask for someone who only opens up to the right kind of public. “There’s a long story to that,” She paused for effect. ” I am happily bound for life.” Her tone was of pure sincerity. Causing the woman a bit of embarrassment for asking in the way that she did.

“What is your position here at the club?”
”Co-owner with my dear friend Cristiana. I also tend to more unseen items like security, clerical assistance.”

“And you perform! A busy woman. What do you sing?” She added. The upbeat tone made Temperance’s cheeks feel rosy, ”Indeed. Mostly jazz, some blues sounding, or happier and upbeat. I embrace it like a calling, as if I was born to sing.”

The reporter nodded and continued on, “What is your favorite drink here in the bar? Is it your signature cocktail? And if not what is?”

”I usually drink tea when working, but off the clock, I savor the bitter and orange sweetness of a Captain’s Punch. It is my signature cocktail.”

Looking up from her paper while scribbling, “What’s in it?”

”Equal parts of Southern Comfort, Amaretto, spiced rum, and orange juice. Served on the rocks in a cold high ball glass.”

“I’ll have to try it sometime, but SoCo makes me sick."

"I'm sure we could substitute that with something else for you."

"Okay. Aside from yourself, what your favorite pick from the other performances?”

”I’m afraid I do not have a favorite performer, rather a type of melody that I’m drawn to and most often that is solo-pianists and independent musicians who know just what to do to get the crowd on the dance floor.”

“And after all this, what is the one thing that bothers you most while working?”

Temperance thought for a moment, ”To be honest, it takes a lot to get under my skin. I believe people do things for a reason. If I had to choose one thing, it would be unhappy staff members. If the workers are in a pleasant mood the customers will be as well.”

“Oh that makes sense. I wouldn’t want some cranky Miss forgetting my order.” She added while continuing to write. “So what is the most memorable moment you can recall while working here?”

This question was by far the easiest. ”Opening day.” Temperance shifted in her seat and began to explain a bit more. ”There is nothing better than signing a lease, being overwhelmed, overjoyed, but know that the family and friends who signed with you will last. We are still here and in one piece. I intend to keep it that way.”

“Lastly, do you have any words of wisdom for our readers based on your experience here?”

”Enjoy life in front of you, live it to its fullest, embrace it, else unexpected turns may just leave you wondering what you could have done different.” She spoke from the heart.

“That is deep coming from a club owner.” The reporter snickered while finished writing.

”Well, if you seen some of the folks that sit at the bar staring at the glass every night as if was a wishing well, you’d think that way too.”

“Ms. Avila,” the reporter stood, as did she. “Thank you for doing this.”

”You are most welcome, dear. Do you have a card? I can email over our monthly entertainment schedules should be take interest in joining us again for the full experience.”

“Of course,” she fumbled through her purse a moment and handed a business card as the pair walked towards the main room of the bar. “Thank you.”

”Drop another in the bowl at the bar and you may receive a free appetizer too.” She winked with a loving grin. Temperance wandered over to the counter and took a seat on one of the high stools.

”Else, I have a feeling we are about to get a bit busier.” She liked the notion. Hoped it would also attract more allurists to the academy as well.