|
|
Post by Dion on May 14, 2020 23:20:36 GMT -6
Even with Zhalla's progressive view on Super Saiyan status and how it's achieved being hard-pressed on the bartender, the more traditional Super Saiyan was unsure of such a possibility, and even more unsure if she was joking or not. Throughout what he's heard consistently about the legend, it's always been through great rage wherein the Saiyans have been able to find the key to break through their glass ceilings to the next level. Whether it be rage at an external force or even at oneself, that was the one connecting variable between all the occurrences of achievement, a steady level of anger enabling the breakthrough needed. Emotional strain and strife, not just any situation where one of the Saiyan race finds themselves in emotional imbalance. Well, then again, there was one sort of way Dion could see such a possibility actually happening- and that was with the case of Super Saiyan being achieved by those who aren't one hundred percent pure blooded, and are instead hybrids of some sort who managed to get the Super Saiyan genes through their Saiyan side of the family. Retasu and Russe coming to mind as he thought about it. Perhaps they would be able to achieve Super Saiyan in a different way then? They didn't really act too different from pure Saiyans, in fact the only difference he took note of was their incredible ability to adapt and raise their strength at an even greater rate than regular Saiyans- perhaps due to their mixed blood.
Overall, though, Dion still remained quite doubtful of Super Saiyan being achieved through such, what some would consider, trivial means, and made such doubts present by saying in an unconvinced yet all the more interested tone, "I'm glad you seem so open to the idea, but I'm still not so sure- it'd definitely bring the form down from atop its pedestal of legend if someone were to gain it through, say, something stupid but still emotionally charging- like winning a game of Poker or somethin', you feel me-?"
Shifting back toward the topic of her children, Dion's expression brightened as he heard that he all but needed to simply call Zhalla whenever he was available. Taking out aforementioned phone and scrolling through the contacts lists for a couple seconds, he nodded in response to her inquiry about schedule making, eyes narrowed gently in focus as he muttered in a sort of absentminded voice, clearly already thinking far ahead of the present date, "Since we're attempting to help you out with something real important to ya currently, I'd be fine with messaging you a copy of my schedule for the next couple weeks- prone to being changed at a moments notice, just to let you know- to try and help coordinate a visit later on. For now, let's try and finish helping you out, yeah?"
Clearly, his experience from bartending and now compartmentalizing as part of his job as CEO of his own globally known company was showing- his calculative gaze as he checked his calendar for the next couple weeks, jotting down a note or two in his phone's note app, etc etc, as Zhalla began to inquire if there was any employee spots open in any of his selective locales. For a second he considered inquiring as to what she meant by group and leader, but, something told him that certain topic had a lot to unpack, and if brought up, would take up time he'd rather use helping Zhalla with any more loose ends when it came to her smitten Saiyan ways. Looking up with a grin, he reached over the counter and took out a questionnaire, handing it over to her and saying with a bit of a sheepish tone, "S-sorry, normally I would hire you on the spot- seeing as you're a close friend, you've got kids to take care of, and you already seem incredibly qualified- but some dumb Earth laws have me required to give you a bit of a, I guess you could say resume to fill out before I'm allowed to hire you."
Checking a couple more things on his phone before putting it away, he continued, business mode tone now ringing solidly from his words, "You've asked at the perfect time, really, I've been short of working hands for a little while now, and we've only just begun to pick up steam in hiring efforts recently. So I'm sure you'd be a welcome presence within any one of my several locations. I'd assume you'd prefer a working environment near your orphanage-? I'm sure I can find a Diono's located near it if you give me its address.."
Immediately realizing the topic was shifting too greatly from their main objective, the bartender immediately began to wave her off though, saying in a reassuring tone, "You don't need to fill it out now though, that's not what we're here for. Simply text me an image of it done and I'll read through it, give you the A-OK, and send ya somewhere that's perfect for ye, alright?"
"And before you thank me, don't- you're all good."
Once the more business oriented part of conversation was done, they begun to dive right back into the deep end- a softened expression melting onto Dion's features as he heard from Zhalla that she was even less fortunate than those who found themselves in her care. One more reason to hire her out, and one more reason to help her out overall.
"Well," he began, offering a comforting and charismatic grin, "With the kinda paycheck you'll be getting working for me, I'll hope to help you make up for all that you were robbed of during your childhood then. As well as help the kids in your care get that sort of experience while they're still young. They, and you, at the very least, deserve that much."
As for her own snarky remark about the bourbon being only for him, he simply snorted, muttering just loud enough for her to hear, "Not everyone is as accommodating as you, Zhalla- crazy, bastards, these Earthlings can be. I don't plan on becoming an alcoholic or anything, but on Kami I swear some of these blockheads drive me damn close."
"And, thanks for that. I do try," was all he could muster in response to her trust in judgment and assurance that she wouldn't rather have any other bartender serving her this evening. "You've been a lovely audience so far."
In terms of possessiveness, apprehensiveness, and all the other nesses that came with being thrown into the jaws of love and confessing, Dion wasn't all that sure how she'd handle it. But what he knew was that if Nero loved her as much as he saw Zhalla loved he, then he was sure he'd be more than willing to guide her through it every step of the way. So, that's what he said, replying simply, "Even if you are possessive, and even if you aren't the most knowledgeable, if he loves you enough to say yes, then he loves you enough to help you learn the ins and outs of this crazy little thing called love."
...upon hearing her ponderings about activities partners do, the bartender was oh SO tempted to take advantage of her wording, but decided against it- instead becoming intrigued at her mention of dance as a way of people showing their love for one another. Readjusting himself so that he was sitting more straight up, one foot now nearly touching the floor beneath them, a strange yet excitable glimmer in his eye, he asked, "Dancing-? Well, yeah, I've heard of couples doing it with eachother, in fact, I'd say I know at least one or two simple dance routines that anyone could do. I assume you're asking since you're interested in doing something like that with Nero-? Do you have any background knowledge on dance as a whole, anything we could work with here?"
"I don't mind demonstrating at all, I just wanna know beforehand exactly what I'm working with before we get started. The nights young, so I'm perfectly fine with stretching out and getting a move on for a bit."
|
|
|
|
Post by Zhalla on May 15, 2020 1:34:03 GMT -6
Zhalla seemed to frown lightly as she looked to Dion after hearing his response to their Super Saiyan discussion, raising an eyebrow in a sort of doubtful way at him. While she understood having doubts especially since rage seemed to be the most common way the form appeared, what she couldn't understand was thinking it was impossible or stupid even-- Heck she had just moments ago thought Super Saiyan itself was unlikely and overall was just taking Dion's word for it. "What makes anger and rage so much more 'special' in terms of emotion to every other emotion? A form is just a form, there's no pedestal except the one you create within your own mind" She'd then huff lightly before adding, "Giving it a pedestal isn't a good thing to do anyway, Super isn't special, the person using it is" Zhalla would raise a finger to poke Dion on the nose with before then wagging it at him, "Plenty see getting angry and fueled with rage as stupid too, you know, besides that's not what I meant. Other emotions can be just as powerful as anger, sadness and happiness for example, a breakthrough of joy after a long upset or extreme anguish after struggling for so long is more what I mean-- As funny as a game of poker causing super would be"
She'd nod soon after though when it came to organizing a time for having him visit to meet the kids. "That sounds good to me, we'll work something out around ya schedule!" When it came to the part about finishing helping her out with the current problem though she'd rub one of her palms against a cheek as if trying to 'rub' the blush away. "Hah-- Yeah, yeah we should finish that first, right-- You're a tough cookie when it comes to trying to change the subject aren't you?"
Needless to say when it came to the part about employment she sure wasn't expecting Dion to respond the way he had. When handed the questionnaire she would take it with careful hands, looking down at it for a moment before looking up at Dion "Wait-... You-" Zhalla would swallow as her lower lip quivered slightly- Yeah, he was serious. Of course he was serious about it. But there was no way she was about to cry either-- Before the other saiyan even got to finish saying she didn't need to thank him Zhalla had pushed herself out of her stool and had pulled Dion into a hug. "Sorry what was that? I didn't catch that last part" The ginger saiyan would tease but really she was finding it difficult to hold back genuine grateful tears and hope that that was something he didn't notice. Giving him one last big hug that could probably lift him from his own seat she would eventually let him go-- But not before attempting to give him a bonus noogie on the head. "Don't be sorry I know how funky the Earth hiring system can be, I'd be more then happy to fill this out now even I just need-- Uh something to fill it out with- I don't mind any location I can work with what you'd like! Hoh- This would make you my boss wouldn't it, jeez that'll be somethin else, huh~" While she could hold back the tears she couldn't hold back a beaming smile, "For real though Dion... Thank you, this really means a lot to me"
His added part about the paycheck from working with him made her laugh lightly, though it was hard not to smile again because of his kindness. "I'll be sure to work extra hard for that then! That's very generous of you though-- No paying me extra for the kids alone though, I gotta work for that!"
Zhalla would laugh fully though at Dion's comment about Earthlings. "You know you're not wrong! Pfft-" She muffle her laughter though before adding, "I mean since you're a bartender I imagine you have pretty good control on that, good to not plan on becoming that and such especially with your job" She tried to hold back another laugh though at the last part, "Don't let em get to ya, you're doin great so far"
Zhalla would wave her hands shortly after though, "Nah nah being possessive isn't the right way to go about things I think, he's not a possession after all-- Well while I'd like him to be mine and all that, I don't own him, you know?" The rest though she seemed fine with, settling her hands down in her lap soon after. "So you're meaning it's a something learnt along the way, basically? Like... Learnt together with your partner?" Pretty wholesome really or at least she thought so.
The ginger saiyan kept an eye on Dion as she explained the part about partnered dancing and needless to say his reaction was rather unexpected. "Oh, really?" She did seem a little surprised he knew of a couple routines, he really was the perfect person to go to about this, huh? "I-... Well. Yeah okay fine-- Yes, it's cause I wanna do something like that with Nero..." Zhalla was looking a little red again but she was still listening. "No--" The answer had left her mouth before she even really gave it much thought. She wasn't about to let him know she was well versed in solo dances or anything though. "Not really I'm afraid, my knowledge on it is pretty limited" By now though she was sure Dion could read past that but for now he wouldn't be getting the full truth out of her. Not a chance.
"Demonstrating? How do you mean?" She'd sit up a little straighter herself as she tilted her head slightly, "Wait, wait-- before 'we' get started? Who're you doing the demonstration with?" She'd pause for a moment though before squinting her eyes at the other saiyan for a little bit. "... Are you meaning you and I practice together, Dion?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Dion on Jun 11, 2020 18:41:02 GMT -6
A bit of a bashful look appeared on the normally cool, calm, and composed bartender's face as he began to see things from Zhalla's own point of view- realizing that to other people his views on what the Super Saiyan form is, and how it was achieved, could be seen as a bit of a tunnel vision like viewpoint, and how it could be construed that he believed that any other ways going about achieving the form besides rage were stupidly illogical in nature. He never wished to display such a stance on the topic, only that he thought rage was the only surefire way of breaking through into the golden gilded state of legend. If any others of his race could gain such strength through emotional strife besides that of pure anger, then good for them-! They managed to surpass their limits in their own way, and they should nonetheless be proud of themselves of doing so. He never meant at all to make it out to be as though he was looking down on others who may, or might, have achieved the Super Saiyan form through differing means. If you were able to get that sort of power in the first place, then you should be proud no matter the circumstance! Not many can say they're able to turn Super Saiyan anyways, so being able to do so places you a step above the rest no matter what kinda emotion you might've been feeling in the heat of the moment.
So, attempting to try and backtrack a bit on his first point, Dion sheepishly scratched at the back of his black hair, chuckling embarrassingly as he said with a bit of a guilty undertone in his words, "Apologies, Zhalla- you made a lotta good points there. Specially' what with the whole, it's not the form, it's the person kinda point you had. If you're nothing without the form, then you shouldn't have it anyways. Real sorry about that- I didn't mean to come off so close minded."
Now, keeping a much more open mind in general moving forward, the now re-energized Saiyan bartender let out a more comfortable chortle as Zhalla finally took verbal note of his expert skill in being able to stay focused on the main objective. When it came to love, Dion was a hard man to sidetrack. Especially when it included a real good friend of his who was new to this game for two.
But, he had to admit, when Zhalla seemed as though she was about to burst right into a fountainful of tears, it was hard to try and keep them on the main path. The poor lad nearly lost his balance as his ginger-haired friend pulled him in for a close embrace- gosh, this job opportunity meant a lot to her, didn't it? Dion felt quite warm inside, he always did enjoy helping out anyone in need, and the fact that it was Zhalla only made it even better- though, the snarky little noogie she sneaked in did dampen that same feeling a tiny bit, a grin now growing onto his face as he replied, "You just couldn't resist messing with my hair, now could you-? It takes a while to set this up in the morning.."
The young man was only kidding of course, and he returned to listening intently as Zhalla continued to thank him once more. And just like he did many times before, Dion simply waved her off, saying in a nonchalant tone, "It's really no problem, honestly. You caught me at a perfect time, considering our staffing issues as of late. And even if we weren't lacking in staff, I would've found something for you to do anyways. I'm not gonna let potential like yours go wasted."
And, despite her comments refusing the extra pay, something told him that he'd probably find himself sneaking a little extra into her paychecks when she wasn't looking in the future- but she didn't need to know that.
Anyways, now was the time to finally steer it all back toward their main objective- that being helping Zhalla with winning over mister Pancake King himself. Specifically, using the age old art of dance to try and charm the guy. Now, truth be told, Dion didn't know that much about dancing overall, but he did know enough that he'd be able to offer a sort of rough beginner's guide to it for Zhalla. Good enough to get her feet wet so to speak before diving all in.
A familiar looking sly smile appeared on his face as he slunk like a slinky all the way over to the jukebox- hitting it a couple times to try and get the right kinda song before it finally stopped on a tune he thought would be fun for the two of them to practice on; that being of a ballroom dance type of beat. Slow, smooth, and with a set pattern- it was the perfect kind of dance routine to introduce any beginner to, and it fit the romantic undertone that Zhalla was most likely wanting to hit when dancing with her significant other, while also keeping it relatively simple in nature.
Beginning to wave her over, Dion said in a very excited voice, "Yes indeed, my dear Zhalla, you will be my dancing partner for this evening! Considering you have very little knowledge on dancing as a whole, and I firmly believe that it would be an excellent way of showing Nero- nonverbally, I know you struggle finding the words sometimes- just exactly how you feel about him, I am more than happy to show you the ropes!"
"Now then, get on over here, and let's see exactly what those two left feet of yours can do with some proper teaching behind them-!"
|
|
|
|
Post by Zhalla on Jun 11, 2020 19:45:03 GMT -6
Hearing the bartender apologize for the reason he did would make her smile lightly-- Glad that he wasn't the kind of Saiyan who was too prideful to admit any fault or who only stood by what he thinks, no, Dion was much more clever then that. "It's all good at least you can admit that, hey?" She knew of all people he was not one to be willingly close minded anyway, she saw how he was openly kind to their now Arcosian friend, Aurora, when they first met her for one thing and that was not something all Saiyans did so willingly.
Zhalla would grin at her friend after having given him the noogie- Of course it was also just an attempt at humour to lighten the mood since she didn't want to get fully tearful in all honesty, it wasn't like her to openly cry in front of anyone really and she didn't want that to change more then it already had. So the noogie helped her get a grip on her emotions too while also redirecting Dion away into a happier mood as well. "Can you blame me? It's a lot softer then I thought it was gonna be-- Oh sorry" She smiled though, "Hey, it still looks good anyway! Who doesn't like a little bit of scruff?" It was miles better then her own bed-hair in the morning that much was for sure.
The ginger saiyan looked a little taken aback at Dion's comment about her potential, in a way as though she had never heard someone else say she had such before or at least hadn't heard it often. "You're a great friend Dion, I hope you know that" While he waved it off she was still very grateful and it meant a lot to her that he would've found something for her regardless on if he was lacking in staff or not.
When it came back to what she had originally come here for, her eyes would follow Dion as he made his way over to the jukebox- Raising an eyebrow for a bit as he played with it before finally stopping on a rather slow song. Zhalla hadn't heard a lot of this type of music before and while she hadn't been entirely truthful on if she had danced before in the past or not, it was truthful in this case as she hadn't danced to something as smooth and slow-paced sounding as this song. In fact she was much more used to the complete opposite. This would be interesting...
When Dion waved her over and confirmed that they would be practicing together Zhalla looked a little redder in the face then before but she tried to do what she could to hold that back, not wanting to seem shy or anything silly like that. Biting her lower lip and rubbing her temples for a few moments before letting off a light sigh the Saiyan would rise from her stool, "Alright, alright, I'm comin'" Though she would huff a little lightly at the part about her having little knowledge on dancing as a whole-- She couldn't tell the truth though, she'd never hear the end of it.
Reaching Dion and the jukebox she would place her hands on her hips as she listened. Dion made a good point fairly quickly, if she struggled with words then her best bet of telling Nero would be instead to show him, right? Though showing such through dance would be interesting. "You sure about this, Dion?" He for sure did seem sure, excited even. She just wasn't so sure of herself being able to learn something partnered.
Zhalla would smile a little anxiously and her gaze would stray away from her friend as well, setting instead on the jukebox itself, "Alright-- Lead the way then. What do you need me to do first?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Dion on Jun 23, 2020 12:24:24 GMT -6
While Zhalla simply believed Dion to be much more tactful than what he was, he simply just wasn't a prideful person at all- not because he knew it was a negative trait to have most of the time for a Saiyan, but, well, to put it frank, he did not have that sort of incredible self belief just yet. He knew all too well that he had much room to continue to grow. What with Super Saiyan being only the tip of the iceberg on the path to greater power, as well as him having barely any training within the art of combat besides a couple one off teaching sessions from his mother, Dion didn't believe that he deserved or had the right to be necessarily prideful in himself and his thoughts quite yet. Maybe in the future he would gain the self confidence to be able to have even a modicum of pride, the healthy kind of course, but for now? He was too well-aware of his own shortcomings to ever display himself in such a way. Plus, the bartender was pretty sure people liked him the way he was, so, he wasn't too keen on making any big heel turn kinda changes anytime soon.
Moving right along, though, he never liked to keep the topic on himself very often- with the bartender doing what felt like the fiftieth wave of the hand as his orange haired friend attempted to apologize for ruffling his hair. He was kidding, of course, about the styling part, and hoped that it was easy enough to pick up on. Dion wasn't that vain when it came to appearances. Yes, he liked to look sharp, kinda part of the job description, but he wasn't too uptight about it.
"No need to worry, Zhalla- my hair remains pretty solid despite even the greatest strains. Very awe-inspiring to be honest. Though I must agree, a little scruff here and there is a nice little aesthetic when you do it right from time to time."
A pang of what felt like, pride? Did tinge him slightly from deep within as Zhalla commented once more on how good of a friend he was to her. He was quick to swallow it though, offering Zhalla a warm smile as he replied in a humbled voice, "I appreciate all the compliments, really, I do- but careful, my egos already swollen enough as it is."
He let a small chuckle leave his lips before he continued, saying in a more sincere tone, "No, but really, I do appreciate the kind words. I don't think I'm all that amazing, I'm just a bartender trying his best to make his people, and all the people, really, happy. It's the least I can do for someone as great as ye, Zhalla."
Beginning to shake off a bit of the sentimentality, Dion attempted to focus his lenses back on the task at hand once again- Zhalla was much better at side tracking him than she gave herself credit for, wasn't she- as he allowed another amused chuckle be audibly heard as he saw the now much more reddened flush on Zhalla's face. And something told him that, it wasn't from the beer that the red was put there. He waited patiently as she made her way over, they had the time anyways- heck, his schedule for the immediate morning afterward was pretty open, he could afford to stay up a little ways late.
"I am one hundred percent sure-! Unless you're uncomfortable about doing it of course...?"
While teasing, Dion was still quite caring when he wanted to be, and so when he heard the slight hesitancy in her voice, the bartender was sure, to make sure, that Zhalla didn't at all mind Dion teaching her a thing or two.
"If things ever get a bit much for you, or you end up feeling much more uncomfortable than you may have thought, let me know then, alright? I don't wanna entrap you into doing something that ends up hurting your idea of love any further, okay?"
And with that said, Dion held out a hand for Zhalla to take, saying as he put it outward toward her, "Take my hand whenever you're ready. The other hand goes on your side, so don't accidentally hitting me out of surprise when I lay it there, yeah?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Zhalla on Jun 28, 2020 1:28:23 GMT -6
Zhalla couldn't help but to laugh lightly when Dion referred to his hair's resistance as 'awe-inspiring' though she was glad that he took the hair ruffle in great stride, he wasn't the kind of person to be vain but she would of course respect his want to not have his hair ruffled if that were what he wanted. "Pffft- Don't worry I'll be careful, I don't usually give them out so readily but yanno. I give em when I think they're really deserved" She would return the smile before adding, "Honestly trying your best to make other people really happy is an amazingly honorable thing, dontcha try and downplay that!" She'd know all about the whole trying your best for the sake of others part, wouldn't she? That being said she was much like Dion when it came to compliments about it as well.
"Oh- No no I'm good" Zhalla would reassure him, "Not uncomfortable or anythin' but wanted to make sure you weren't either" While she was fine in terms of comfort she was a little anxious about dancing at all-- She didn't want to make a fool of herself and truth be told she was probably rusty by this point and hadn't ever danced with a partner before but the whole point of this was for practice, so the least she could do was to give it a go.
That said, she appreciated that Dion made it clear that if she ever did at any point get uncomfortable that she could just let him know. "Likewise to you too, don't feel like you have to keep teaching for my sake or anything if you change your mind, yeah?" She would give him a smile to let him know she appreciated his kindness and understanding on the matter at the very least. "I'm sure it'll be fine, don't you worry, I'll be sure to let you know."
With all that in mind Zhalla would gently take ahold of the hand Dion held out for her to take before giving a light laugh at what he said afterwards, "I promise I won't go punching you for tryna help Dion, relax! Lead the way, just let me know what you need me to do for this" Just to make things easier for the both of them, she would wrap her ginger tail around her waist to ensure it didn't have the chance to possibly get in the way -- She didn't want to risk having either of them trip over it afterall.
|
|
|
|
Post by Dion on Aug 1, 2020 22:36:11 GMT -6
An even more tickled expression slipped its way onto Dion's face as Zhalla spoke on about how she only gave head ruffles to those who have proven themselves worthy- does this mean there was certain criteria you needed to meet beforehand? What, was there some sort of checklist with little boxes to check off before your head is allowed to be touched upon? What made his hair differ from the others? Stupid little insignificant details like this for some odd reason amused him to no end, which was why he allowed himself to go on such an odd tangent about it before he realized how stupid it was that he was taking his time on-
...oh for Kami's sake.
Shaking himself back to the land of the (relatively) sane, Dion couldn't help but let a more sincere smile melt onto his features as Zhalla once again complimented him on his displayed selflessness, and once again he waved her off once more. Perhaps he didn't give himself enough credit, but Dion was still very hesitant on painting himself to be more than anything but a man simply doing his best to keep people happy. And so, while flattered, Dion simply replied in a humbled yet contrary tone, "I wouldn't say amazingly, it's something any, and all, decent people should strive to do, you know? If all of us went out of our ways every day to make at least one or two other people a bit happier, the world overall would become a happier place as well. I suppose making that world a reality is the reason behind why I live life like I do. But, enough about me-"
He gently slapped her on the shoulder in a teasing and mock reprimanding manner, saying, "Stop shifting the spotlight onto me, aren't I supposed to be helping you with your man problems, or something? See? I'm already startin' to forget-!"
And, thankfully, it seemed that the topic of conversation was returning to that subject again, with Dion reassuring her with a wink and that classic grin of his that he was perfectly fine with having this dance for the evening with her. "Long as you're game, I'm raring to go-! When I start something, I always make sure to finish it, and why would I be hesitant in teaching a pretty lil' thing like you-?Plus, this'll be good to work out any wrinkles or creaks in your dancin' technique before you have your big showdown with your future hubby to be."
"Tellin' me to relax, huh? I thought you were the one that was all out of sorts in the first place."
With that final tease, Dion finally set the mood, speaking as he mimiced what he said with his movements around Zhalla,
"I'm going to teach you a very basic dancing movement- it ain't too hard at all, it's called the Waltz Box Step, and it's as easy as it sounds from the name itself. All you gotta do is exactly what I'm doing, right around you at the moment-!"
Indeed, at the moment, he was moving in an organized box shape around Zhalla, from one corner, to the other corner, to the beat of the music playing in the back.
"Move in a box formation, from one corner, straight to the next corner, back and forth- left, and right. The only difference when doing it with me is that you do the opposite. When I move forward, you move backward. Then if I move left, you move to your right to keep with me."
With the movement piece thoroughly explained to the best of his ability, Dion then pointed to the right side of his waist, and then to his left shoulder, stating, "Your left hand goes right here on the side of my waist, and the other lays just on my shoulder here. Pretty simple, yeah?"
"Now, when you're ready to try it out, let me know, We'll move real slow for you to adjust first. Then, as you get used to the rhythm, we'll pick up the pace. How's that sound?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Zhalla on Aug 12, 2020 5:03:15 GMT -6
"Yeah I getcha and I agree, that's partly why I do what I do!" She was of course referring to the shelter she ran, where she did her best to go out of her way to make things happier for the kids in her care. Suppose it was also why she held a high regard for Nero as he had done the same himself with a child of his own and had also shown kindness when visiting her place.
Zhalla would soon laugh though at the shoulder smack from Dion- Which packed more of a punch then she was expecting though it was still soft and harmless as Dion had aimed for it to be. "Darn-- Almost had you though! Alright, alright though yeah- We're here cause I'm accidentally in love with the Pan--" She'd stop herself from finishing the nickname just in time, clearing her throat whilst drawing a fist to her mouth before correcting herself "With... Nero, I meant Nero, aheh-" If Dion heard that nickname she knew she would never hear the end of it.
"Yeah I'm game, won't learn if I don't at least give it a shot, let's go!" The ginger saiyan would smile back at Dion, though the smile turned rather sly at the compliment he gave, "If I'm a lil' thing, what's that make you? Teeny? Tiny?" She'd wave a hand and laugh though, "Jus' kidding, thanks Dion-" Instant karma followed for that one though and she found herself almost as red as her hair at the hubby comment, "DION!" She stammered for a few moments at the thought before shaking her head and pouting lightly for a bit afterwards-- Focus on something else, collect your thoughts! "... Showdown huh- So... It's like a competition then? A challenge?" Somehow that sort of wording seemed to help her thinking on it and seemingly energized her more for it even. "So it's a form of partnered competition then, right? Well that makes things easier!"
As Dion started his teaching both aloud and in movement, Zhalla would watch as her eyes followed his actions. It seemed simple enough! Dion showing it first and explaining it sure helped to understand it better. It was kind of like partner coordinated fighting just... Without any sort of target for attacking. Maybe that was why the term 'let's dance' when fighting came to be.
When her hand placements were pointed out to her the saiyan would glance aside for a moment before moving to place her hands on the spots Dion said they needed to be. "Right right, left hand here and right hand there- Got it! Simple enough yeah" Zhalla seemed a little more bubbly and confident about giving it all a try after having it explained now and would smile, "Sounds good, starting slow will help with getting used to the right movements at the right times-- Wouldn't want to mess up and step on you or anything, I'm ready when you are, let's go!"
Once they got to it she would do her best to follow along with Dion and step in time, clearly having listened to his advice on how to do the movements-- Or was she maybe better at this dancing stuff then she was originally letting on? Either way she tried to let Dion lead, as difficult as that was for her. Despite being in the middle of supposedly learning, Zhalla decided to spark up some conversation with a question, "So, I'm curious-- Why'd you choose the Waltz to start with? Why not Swing or Rumba? Is it just cause it tends to be slower?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Dion on Aug 24, 2020 3:17:39 GMT -6
"Right, right, you run that lovely little shelter of yours that I must pay a visit to soon!" Dion said as Zhalla drew the connections between the young man's philosophy toward life and her own chosen profession. "Yeah, I'd say you're more than doing your part of the whole 'making things better for a lotta other people' shindig that I've been pushing to do since I've landed on this gem of a planet, yeah. And, like I said, if you do ever need any help with the kids or just need a little help in terms of funding, let me know alright? I might not act like it, or show it very often, since I'd hate to come off as vain to some people, but I've got quite a bit in the bank as it stands at the moment- I'm not a very materialistic guy, so the stuff that remains after making sure all of my establishments are in tip top shape just, kinda, sit there in my account, eheheh. Trust me, I wouldn't mind shelling out a few thousand Zeni or so if it means it helps a whole group of children under your trusted care!"
Knowing how Zhalla was, as he was able to pick up on her approach toward outside help through their interactions thus far, he expected her to be reluctant at first- but knowing also that she really cared about this group of kids, Dion knew she'd probably listen to reason and eventually accept his help! Besides, it wasn't like they were gonna fight over what seemed to be such a minuscule disagreement, right?
Anyways, the children could wait in the wings for just a little while longer. Right now, it was after hours time, and the bartender boy wasn't about to let a minute be wasted on any further dis-
Wait, what was that just then? His eyes flickered and narrowed for a few seconds after the ginger haired woman's potentially fatal slip up. She had talking about being accidentally in love with Nero, but, Zhalla didn't explicitly state Nero by his name. What was it that she had said before trying to cut herself off? Eyes now angled downward toward the floor in a thinking manner, Dion racked his brain for several long moments, unwilling to let what could potentially be the greatest bit of comedy gold go down the drain that easily.
...Pan, was it? Well, that didn't make much sense. Pan? He was sure she didn't mention anything about cooking skills, so it couldn't have been a cooking utensil jok-
-and suddenly, it was as though a lightbulb had flickered to life right above the young man's head. It had to do with pancakes, one of the businesses mentioned by Zhalla very early on in their conversation about her latest heart throb. What kind of pet name could do with pancakes though? That was a little bit peculiar. Adorable, nonetheless, but peculiar indeed. All that Dion could do at the moment though was hold a knowing look at Zhalla as she herself attempted to retake the wheel with another poke and prod at his height, with the bartender offering nothing as a retort but the words, "Careful, Zhalla, or else I might put more effort into figuring out exactly what kinda nickname you've given Nero here. Pancake, something or other, I believe you said..?"
With that snarky response out of the way, and Zhalla's reddening at the "hubby" comment satisfying his wanting to get back at her for the short comment, Dion once again managed to steer the topic at hand back to what they were both settled here for. With Dion chuckling a bit at Zhalla's simplification of dancing as a one on one competition. She, wasn't exactly too off her rocker, but, he knew he probably should be a bit more clear on what dancing is before Zhalla ends up turning a romantic evening with her lover into a late night brawl.
"It's, not really a competition Zhalla dear- more so, how do I word this...more of a way to physically, express yourself and how you feel! Just, rocking and moving to the rhythm and the beat in the way you feel is most right. Doing it with a partner is basically the same, just plus one, and it's usually also more fun! But enough about the technicality of it, we can discuss that at a later date-"
Upon seeing Zhalla was positioned now perfectly, with her hands placed where they needed to be and all that, he then said, "-now, we can actually get to seeing what you can do! Remember, just have fun with it, and don't be too stiff in following my movements!"
As the two then began to move and sway in the form of the classic ballroom waltz, Dion kept his gaze right on their feet, muttering quiet 'one, two, three, four' counts in order to make sure both of them stayed on beat. With his eyes only glancing back up into Zhalla's face as she spoke, immediately going back down toward their feet as he replied in a focused yet chipper tone as usual, "Not only is it excellent for a beginning dance tutorial due to its slowed pace, but also because it's most likely the dance you'll be doing with Nero if you're looking to get your romantic feelings across without having to try and stumble it out verbally-! Not saying you'd, screw it up by going about it the verbal way, of course, but if you happen to lack the confidence in doing so this can always be a good alternative!
"Why-? Interested in learning a few other dances while we're here? The night is young afterall, and plus, you're getting the hang of this pretty quickly!"
Which was a pleasant surprise to Dion! Zhalla followed orders exceedingly well, and was able to recite what he had showed her with shockingly good accuracy. At this sort of work rate, she'd be a natural at dancing in no time! He simply hoped she'd be able to use her newly acquired skills fully when the time was right.
|
|
|
|
Post by Zhalla on Aug 25, 2020 1:31:56 GMT -6
"You're welcome to drop by any time you like, I'm sure the kids would love to meet you at some point when you've got the time" The sure enjoyed whenever she brought Nero over though she hoped they wouldn't react the same way they did the very first time if Dion ever showed up. "Since you've landed here? So you're not an Earth born Saiyan yeah? When abouts did you rock up to Earth, don't think I've ever asked you that one before" When it came to him offering free help though Zhalla would cross her arms over one another and give him a light frown. He certainly wasn't vain or anything but she was one stubborn woman when it came to getting help for nothing in exchange herself. "There's no need for that, any funding I get from you will be my paycheck when I've worked for said money and not a cent more, got it?"
Unfortunately for Zhalla her slip up on the nickname didn't go unnoticed by her friend but good thing she hadn't said the full of it so there was no way he could work out what it was, right? ... Wrong, well. Sort of. Dion guessed uncomfortably close to what it really was in practically one go and the ginger saiyan would raise her hands defensively, shaking them to try and distract Dion away from his thoughts of figuring it out, practically near sweating from the anxiousness of him discovering that nickname. "Ahah... C'mon Dion there's no need for you to do that, it was an honest slip up! I meant Nero of course" Though when he guessed the pancake part aloud she looked as though if she had of had a drink in that moment she would've spat it. Her cheeks practically glowing red by this point "How in the-- N..No! I didn't say that! Who said anything about pancakes!"
When the conversation came back to dancing she would put a hand to her chin in thought, what did he mean it wasn't really a competition? Though what he said made sense it also didn't convince her it wasn't a contest either. Wasn't fighting also a way to physically express yourself and how you felt? Maybe in a different way she supposed. "Oh? Hmm, well I'll take your word for it, suppose that side of discussion on it can wait for later"
"Right, right! Follow your movements but don't be too stiff and have fun with it, got it!" She'd smile when they got into the rhythm of it seemingly happy that she picked up on how to do it rather quickly and Dion's muttering of timing did help out a little as well. Laughing lightly at the part about getting her feelings across verbally she'd wave a hand, "Don't worry I gotcha, I'd be the first to admit I'm not the best at doing that verbally or at least I don't think I am, kinda worried about being too forward with it, yanno? Or messing it up entirely" She wasn't really one to be overly shy but she figured she lacked the right kind of confidence in this situation. Thankfully that didn't matter too much since the practicing dance part was to make up for exactly that!
"It seems pretty easy now, but you watch, I bet as soon as Nero's in the picture I'll mess it up" She'd laugh a little at herself before glancing aside, still somehow keeping in time and pace with Dion despite not fully watching what she was doing anymore. "Do you think doing this will really get all of the feelings across? What do I do if it doesn't?" She huffed lightly, "Man, why can't it be as easy as sparring was with him" She supposed something as easy as giving him a punch and having her feelings get across how she wanted them to was too easy though and things that were worth while were almost never easy.
"Oh-- Sorry, yeah I'm interested in learning a few other kinds too if it's alright with you" She'd shake her head and refocus back on what was going on around her. Wouldn't want to bump into or step on Dion afterall. "Some faster ones could be fun though I get the focus is- Well you know, faster is just more exciting" Though that being said, having fun was part of the focus, right? So maybe she wasn't too foolish for wanting something more speedy. "Oh did I ever tell you about our spar? Back when I first met him? It was quite odd actually, I won it but it felt like he wasn't giving me his all, you know? Not purposefully but like there was more to him then he let show, does that make sense? I hope the next time we spar he comes at me with his full potential, his real full potential that is" She'd smile though while looking rather unsure of herself in her ability to explain it, "That probably didn't make much sense huh, ah well"
|
|
|
|
Post by Dion on Sept 1, 2020 12:15:36 GMT -6
A beaming smile appeared on the young man's face as he was encouraged by Zhalla's affirmation that her kids wouldn't at all mind another new visitor for them to mess around with. He's always loved the idea of taking care of children of his own one day, maybe a future dream sewn and seeded by his own parents, who knows- but nonetheless this would be good practice for the eventuality, well, hopeful eventuality of having kids of his own to take care of. Whether it be by adoption or, other, means, he didn't really care-! It'd just be real heart warming for him to get the opportunity to watch a child of his own grow and become the man or woman he knows they could be. But, that was for much later in the future, right now he was more than satisfied with hanging around Zhalla's kids for a little while one of these days! Maybe he'd bring them some goodies, he knew he had more than enough money to do so, though, allergies were also something to take into account, he didn't want to accidentally kill one of Zhalla's kids because they had a fatal peanut allergy and he just so happened to bring them peanut brittle or something.
All things that he could discuss later with Zhalla when her lovelife wasn't still in hot turmoil. Continuing onward, the inquiry of exactly when Dion arrived on Earth, made the young man realize how no one else has really asked such a question before. Odd, considering the nature of his person and the contrast between himself and most other home-bred Saiyans, but he supposed people just assumed he was Earth born. Nonetheless, it was a question he had no problem answering, saying in response as he continued to keep their dancing on beat and steady, "Let's see, that's a tough one- I haven't exactly been counting the days, y'see? But if I were to hazard a guess, it'd have to be at least about a year since I've found myself a pretty decent home here. It's a lovely little planet, quite different than our Planet Vegeta, but a good different for the most part!"
And, as for the topic of Zhalla being given financial assistance coming up once again, Dion simply slyly grinned- shrugging as he said, "Sure, suuuure- don't be surprised if your paycheck is more than most though~!"
Clearly though, his next words hit home more than the others, as Zhalla attempted to physically wave the thoughts right out of the bartender's head as she tried to explain away her little spill. Even more intrigued than before, her reaction clearly had the opposite effect that she had wanted, Dion decided to try and lull her into a false sense of security again in hopes that she'd mess up again once relaxed, saying in a reassuring tone as she sputtered out her protests, "Fine, fine, I'll let it simmer for now. At least until I meet Nero himself that is-!"
Shifting from a joking, poking, and prodding persona to a more supportive one as Zhalla admitted her shortcomings within the strength of her verbal expression, Dion simply shrugged, saying in a much more genuine comforting tone this time around, "Not everyone's born a gifted wordsmith Zhalla- sometimes it requires a little practice, and other times, well, it just ain't for the person. I'm willing to bet you're the former though, just need to practice more with it is all, just like everything else you do! Heck, I'm still figuring my way around my own tongue at times, eheheh."
Which was true in a way- with the only thing keeping him from looking like a complete dunce sometimes being his innate and incessant charismatic personality.
Now feeling the need to be a bit more practical once Zhalla began to doubt herself, Dion slightly booped Zhalla right on her nose, speaking with a matter-of-fact tone in his voice, "See, with that attitude, you're bound to screw up, Zhalla. No matter what the circumstances, you must be able to keep your composure and be able to perform under great duress. That goes for both dancing, and for battle. You can't afford in either to break down due to the presence of a single someone or something. You must be able to press on, in hopes that it will work out overall! You're doing great as it is! Plus, romantic, ballroom dancing is pretty, obvious, in terms of what you're trying to convey, so I'm sure he'll get it once you start getting into it."
Before he could start to discuss different types of dancing besides ballroom basics to his ginger haired friend, the story of her and her future (yes, future, he was VERY CONFIDENT in this pairing despite not even having met Nero) significant other sparring did interest him quite a bit. Could this be potentially a sign of some sort? Or was the bartender reading waaay too deep into a relatively simple gesture? There was only one way to find out.
"That, is, odd actually- did you ever ask him upfront why he didn't go one hundred percent off the bat? Maybe it was because of an, injury or something?"
|
|
|
|
Post by Zhalla on Sept 2, 2020 3:22:55 GMT -6
Zhalla seemed rather surprised to hear how long Dion had actually been on Earth for, truth be told she was expecting quite a number of years to be under his belt on that answer but this appeared to not be the case. "Huh, really?" She'd raise an eyebrow at the other saiyan as she kept in time to his movements and the music. "I've been here longer then you have then it would seem, I'm not... Actually an Earth born Saiyan but I may as well be since I grew up here for the majority of my life and such, yanno? Haven't been back to Vegeta since the last time I saw it-- Which I think was when I was about 10 or something like that, anyways-" She'd smile after having given a small head shake. "I'm glad you found a decent home here, Earth really is a lovely little planet, I'm glad you decided to move here" Otherwise they of course wouldn't of met! How criminal!
When it came to the paycheck though her tone and overall posture shifted greatly, her expression dropped and her hands would go to grip onto Dion's suit collar, using her height to her advantage to loom over him in an intimidating way before yanking him in so that they were almost nose to nose, unless Dion avoided the move. "I said, not a cent more, Dion" Her tail would flick out in an aggravated sort of manner before she'd release her grip on his collar- Should he of not stopped her from grabbing it in the first place. "If you raise my paycheck higher then the others in a way I don't think I've earnt, you'll be in big trouble, y'hear?" Crossing her arms over her chest she would cast him a firm look, fully intending to keep her word on that should she need to in future.
When it came to her nickname spill for Nero he seemed to almost back-down entirely on pursing what the name truly was in a way, or at least put a pin in it for now. When he brought up meeting Nero himself though-- "Oh don't you dare ask him-" Though... What was the likelihood of the two men meeting anyways? They were both very busy in their own businesses so, perhaps Dion realised such and was just bluffing in a way to rile her up. "... As if you two are gonna meet anyways" She said aloud in such a way that it sounded more like she was trying to convince herself of such, rather then to say to Dion that she actually didn't believe the two would ever meet. Doing the 'I'm watching you' hand gesture at Dion she'd squint however, "If you seek him out and ask, I'll know"
As Dion provided more comforting words on the topic of not being so word smart though Zhalla found her smile coming back to her. Though she'd frown lightly seemingly a little confused. "Practice huh? Easier said then-... Nevermind but it does seem harder to practice such a thing, harder at least then say fighting practice, which you can do solo or with a training buddy, right? How would one practice talking to the same extent, it's not really something you can practice well alone, huh?" When he pointed out he was still practising such himself, Zhalla would glance aside for a few moments "Oh? You seem so good at it that you make it look easy even, or at least you seem that way to me-- Honestly if you hadn't of said otherwise I really wouldn't of known, you seem to have it pretty down-pat if you asked me"
Once booped on the nose Zhalla would blink a few times out of surprise before shaking her head lightly to re-focus. Dion had a point, if her mindset was stuck on that she would screw things up then chances were that she was more likely to do exactly that. Sure she didn't also want to come across as too cocky, but too anxious to slip up wouldn't do her much good at all. "Y'know, as hard as it can be to remember that sometimes. You're right, no point in me focusing on all the negative 'what if's and outcomes that could happen, as uh... Kinda gut wrenchingly scary as some of those seem, my chances are better if I just focus and keep my calm. He's not a jerk or anything anyway so even if he doesn't feel the same way I'm sure we could still be friends" The ginger saiyan would smile after the fact, "So long as I can keep him as a friend no matter the answer, I'll be alright" He also had a point in that ballroom dancing was rather on the obvious side in terms of trying to convey the message she was trying to put out, Zhalla would laugh and put an arm behind her head as her face flushed with colour again, "You've got a point there too, ahah~ Man, sorry for all these doubtful moments, I'm not really one for being overly doubtful, this is just... Something I'm not exactly used to yet-- Thank you for putting up with all this Dion"
When it came back to Nero and her spar with the lad upon their first meeting, Zhalla would bob her head side to side lightly in thought at Dion's questions about it. "Well, as I recall-- Not exactly no, I did try to subtly encourage him to give me his all in the fight and such though! I don't like when people go easy on me, but this was different- Like as if he couldn't put more into it then what he had at the time, during that moment" When it came to the point of that maybe this was because of an injury Zhalla would frown lightly. "Well uh-- I hope that's not the case? I kinda... Slammed him into the ground and stuff during the spar so-" She would bite her bottom lip for a few moments before adding, "I'm uh- I'm sure it's nothing too serious like that, right? I'm sure he would've said as much prior to the spar if that was the case-- Not good to fight or even practice such while you're still injured afterall"
|
|
