Grand Opening - Mingle

[taigastripes]

🧙 WHO: Kagami and everyone
⚔️️ WHAT: Kagami opens up his diner. Please go here for an idea of what it looks like. Just PM me if you have any questions. Doubles as a Mingle log if you want to drop any open threads!
🕒 WHEN: Throughout March
🗺️ WHERE: Camelot City
⚠️ WARNINGS: None

Help Wanted

[Obviously, before any sort of profit could be made, Kagami had to hire help. So, he had put an ad out on both the network and in the paper looking for hire a few people. He would likely need one other full time cook, plus probably a part time one. He also needed people to wait tables. This place wasn't going to be huge, so he wasn't entirely sure how many he would need right now. A few in the morning for the breakfast folk, but likely more for the lunch and dinner rushes. During the week likely wouldn't be so busy compared to the weekend, so he needed to work all that out.

He figured, however, he would cross that bridge when he got there. So, if you're interested in being part of the waitstaff, a cook, or even just a busboy/girl, then please put in an application or even give him a call!]

Grand Opening

[The diner wasn't all that big in the grand scheme of things, but Kagami didn't mind. He wasn't looking to have some gigantic restaurant. While he could say he just wanted a little bit of home, his home was also two different countries that he truly loved. So while he would eventually expand the menu, he figured the classic would be good enough as comfort food for the folk of Camelot, both native and refugee. It also didn't mean he was ever giving up on his dream to be a pro basketball player, but he also had to be realistic. Home was frozen in time, there was no NBA here, and while he could go into his back-up plan of being a firefighter once he got his elemental magic stronger... well, this sort of fell into place a bit quicker and easier.

Getting a permit wasn't too difficult, although printing out flyers and asking around for anyone who wanted a job and figuring out how much to pay and them and such was. Figuring out the floor plan, the menu, etc. That was all definitely a lot more difficult and would have been had he been doing this all on his own. But no, his basketball crew (for lack of better term) really pulled through on helping him out getting started. He was surprised but also entirely grateful.

And so, in the beginning of March, Kagami's Diner officially opened. As with anything that made him nervous and excited, he didn't sleep the night before. So, he was already at the diner to make coffee for himself and get the breakfast menu going for if anyone stopped by. He wasn't expecting much in the morning, he figured more would stop by during lunch and dinner though. He just hoped it didn't get too busy!]

JAPANESE LUNCH TIME RUSH

[Okay so.

Kagami had hoped the diner would do well. But holy shit, it was so busy lately?! He didn't let the food suffer for it, but he was definitely getting harried with the hustle and bustle. He was very glad the menu was pretty simple. He would expand it when he really got a handle on things. But for now, please be patient, y'all! Your order is on the way! It was also around this time that Kagami had set up outside seating as well. Animals weren't allowed inside (yes this was due to his dog phobia but also because that just wasn't sanitary, okay?) but to help compensate he had est up seating outside as well.

He was just thankful it wasn't impeding on any foot traffic to create a sort of patio area. With Takao's insistence he also added a sort of "Dog & Cat Menu" for anyone bringing their dogs or cats in. It was generally nothing more than an all meat menu, to be honest. Burger patties, meat balls, etc. They all arrived with a free bowl of water as well.]

After Hours

[It was 10pm and Kagami was still cleaning up the place. He didn't mind, it gave him a chance to wind down. He allowed any of the waitstaff to go home at this point too, they didn't need to stay and clean but he certainly appreciated if they did. The jukebox played some music in the background as he moped up, lifted the outside chairs onto the tables and tied them down, swept the area, and let the cold March air keep him awake. If anyone walked by, they would get a nod or if they walked in, there was a polite "We're closed, come back tomorrow."

Otherwise, he was open to chit-chatting. But any stragglers were gonna get the boot, although loitering outside was fine as long as they didn't trash the area.]

Wildcard

[Of course obligatory wildcard option, it’s a mingle so feel free to make your own top level or hit me up if you want anything specific! mossflowered]

Comments

open!

[fooligans]

( Breakfast menu )

[ For someone who enjoys sleeping in morning shifts are a drag, yet when Akira walks up to the customers who decided to drop by the diner for a breakfast to take their orders, his drowsiness remains thoroughly hidden. He will yawn when no one's looking, though. Or when he thinks no one will notice. ]

I recommend our fluffy pancakes and scrambled eggs. Unless you're feeling bold and want to start a day with a milkshake. Or maybe... [ Akira sets the menu cards on the table, smiling softly and building the suspense. ] All three?

[ He'll back off if the customer is still undecided and will come back after a few minutes or when he notices them scanning the room looking for a waiter. ]

May I take your order?

( Japanese lunchtime rush )

[ Shujin Academy's lunchtime rush has nothing on what is happening at Kagami's diner right now. Almost all of the tables are occupied, both inside and outdoors, and Akira runs around them with the people working on the same shift, taking orders and bringing the meals from the kitchen. He's quite good at remembering the orders, but mistakes happen. ]

Sorry for the delay, here's your order. [ He sets a tray with a burger, fries, and a shake on the table but realizes something isn't quite right. ] This...isn't what you ordered, is it?

[ He realizes his own mistake a bit too late. ]

( Cooking Mama )

[ Sometimes, when there aren't many customers around, Akira stays in the kitchen to polish his cooking skills even further. It turns out that burgers are his specialty, though he's always trying out different dishes from the menu.

If he's serving his own food to someone he knows, he might sit on the other side of the table and stay for a chat. If you're a stranger, he might do the same—he'll make sure that it's okay to join first, however. Alternatively, he'll come back sometime later to ask with a sheepish smile: ]

So...how did you like it?

( Wildcard )

[ Anything goes! Akira's working as a waiter and from time to time he's helping in the kitchen, so feel free to assume he's taking your characters' order/working together at the diner. Also, if you have other ideas, I'll roll with anything! ]

closed to kagami

[fooligans]

[ Akira has seen the ads on the network and in the paper and while he's definitely interested, it doesn't feel right to just call Kagami and ask for a job. Besides, it gives him an opportunity to see the place before the opening and perhaps help out with something—opening a diner sounds like a very big deal, after all. ]

Hey. Figured out that you might be here.

[ The doors were open so he just walked in; it's not even the big day yet, but in Akira's eyes, the place looks impressive. ]

I've heard that you're looking for people to hire.

[taigastripes]

[The diner was still a little incomplete, but nothing major. It was enough that Kagami was by himself for the moment, working out the menu and testing out a few of the foods so far to make sure the cookware he got installed would do the job. Of course, the real test was when they had customers but for now this was enough.

Kagami looked up from where he sat at the counter, a few empty plates of lunch on the counter and waiting to be cleaned up next to the test menus he was looking through.]

Akira, hey. Mm, I am. I'm not sure how many I'll need but... you looking for job, then?

[Not many just stopped to chat unless it was the other basketball players still here.]

Which position are you interested in?

[fooligans]

Yeah. Turns out that doing quests isn't enough.

[ Especially when it turns out that the prize is watching a play and some laughable amount of money. ]

Waiter and maybe kitchen help during rush hours. I even have some experience, so I'm ready for an interview whenever.

[ The beef bowl shop he used to work at was much smaller than Kagami's diner but he's pretty sure he can pull this off. ]

[taigastripes]

Never tried them.

[Sucks that they didn't pay enough though. He wondered how others were getting by then.

Kagami gestured to the stool in front of him.]

Then take a seat.

[Once Akira was seated, he considered what Akira told him. Waiter and kitchen help, with some experience to boot. He decided to go for that first.]

What experience do you have?

[fooligans]

Smart move, honestly.

[ They're a hit or miss, so not bothering with them and having a job instead sounds way more productive. ]

A waiter at a beef bowl shop. Helped out in a cafe, too. And in a bar. [ Akira pauses; it seems that he's done but that's not the case. ] Worked at a flower shop and in a convenience store as well.

[ It turns out that Shibuya is in dire need of part-time workers or something. ]

Not at once, obviously.

After Hours - ota

[dvine]

[The day was quite busy. Kise had offered to help around, switching between being the waiter and cashier, until someone actually competent with money came along. Then he stuck to waitering and just overall trying to charm people into visiting.

And it was a very successful day. He had stayed behind to clean up, of course, because he was part of the workforce- he offered to help so he's going to do everything, start to finish. He's sweeping the floor of the patio outside while there's commotion inside, humming under his breath. His wolf Nova is sitting next to the door, blinking tiredly and yawning as his owner worked.

Thinking no one's watching, he starts singing a bit-]

That rhythm is what makes me feel alive~ hmhmhmhmmm~

[-using the tip of the broom handle as microphone. Wolf tilts his head at him and then joins in with soft howls. Separately- they are good. Together- out of tune. Kise doesn't seem bothered.]

[taigastripes]

[When it was just Kise, Kagami could ignore the singing for the most part. But when the wolf started to howl and make it all off key, he clicked his tongue. He leaned against the mop and then abruptly chucked a wet rag at the blond.]

Knock it off, blondie, no one wants to hear you guys sing off key!

[dvine]

[If the wolves could bark, Nova would bark in a happy greeting. But instead, it's a mild, happy howl. He continues sitting where he is since someone had explained to him that Kagami's afraid. Nova's smart familiar. Doesn't have the little ball for summoning anymore, but he's ten times smarter than a regular dog.

On the other hand, Kise yelped, when the wet rag connected with the back of his head.]

Hey! Is this what I get for helping you out?! [Kise laughs and chucks the rug back at Kagami.] Song keeps me moving. [He can't lie, he's a bit tired.] I'm almost done here so don't worry about it! [After sweeping only trash is left to be tossed out and he's done.]

[taigastripes]

[Kagami caught the rag right back and leaned on the mop. He was tired.]

Then let the song do its job!

[He sighed loudly, pushing himself back up to lean the mop handle on the counter so he could stretch with a groan. Then, he rubbed the back of his neck and looked entirely embarrassed as he mumbled out.]

Thanks for the help.

[dvine]

[Kise continued humming, as if to spite him, but didn't outright sing. Once he was done sweeping and packing the bags with garbage up, he gives Kagami a grin.]

No worries, Kagamicchi! I'm glad I could lend you a hand.

[He rounds the corner to toss the bags away and then returns to Kagami. Nova's now watching the redhead with rapt attention. Wants a pet.]

It's something you wanted to do for a while, right? I'm glad I could be part of it!

[taigastripes]

[Nova ain't getting a pet! Kagami really didn't like the intense eyes on that thing and he struggled not to show that he noticed.]

Yeah... something similar was already in Lunatia but we had more of a chance to get a basketball team going so I'd put it in the back of my mind until now.

[The floors were cleaned and he put the mop away, the loose chairs already upturned onto the countertops that had also been cleaned. He made a mental checklist on what they'd done so far and it seemed like they got everything.]

Hopefully the rush dies down. Making money is good but I don't think I could keep this up if it was this busy all the time.

after hours

[compendiem]

Oh. Um... sorry.

[ He had just walked in on Kagami sweeping, stopping short and about to turn around and leave because of course after closing is a terrible time to talk. It's late and Kagami must want nothing more than to finish up and go home too, but with how busy the diner is, there wasn't much chance for Minato to speak with anybody throughout the day either.

There's a paper carefully rolled up in his hand that he smooths out across his thigh and holds up, the corners curled: an ad for the diner he had cut out of the local paper. ]

Ken brought me here the other day. Looks like you're doing real well... I dunno if you still need the help.

[taigastripes]

[Well, Minato wasn't wrong. Kagami was pretty tired and eager to crawl into bed. But that didn't meant he wasn't going to listen to what the other teen had to say either now that he seemed to want to ask something rather than looking for food. His brows raise a little at the sight of the ad. It hadn't been very long since he opened but applicants had dwindled since the place opened, so he hadn't expected anyone else.

He straightened up and set the broom to the side, rolling his shoulders a little.]

Depends, what position you looking for?

[After seeing well busy the place could get, all of them were technically open for one or two more. But he curious to hear what the guy wanted first.]

[compendiem]

[ He shrugs. If decision and enthusiasm is something Kagami desires in an employee, he would have to look elsewhere, but Minato at least follows up with a little more than that. ]

I can do whatever. Cleaning, waiting tables, cooking. I'm a quick learner. ...I can stack seventeen bowls before they even begin to wobble.

[ The addendum is made as if he needs to provide something impressive to his nonexistent resume. He is practiced in stacking and balancing bowls and plates and cups! This is a point of pride, apparently. ]

[taigastripes]

[Just don't be an ass to customers and Kagami honestly does not care what Minato kind of attitude (or not) he was going to bring. He wasn't exactly a shining example of full on customer service himself, given his perpetual grump face. It also didn't stop the slight exasperated look at the mention of stacking.]

Uh, yeah, please don't stack seventeen bowls unless you're planning on being busboy of the year or something dumb.

[Still, someone who was a quick learner and willing to do whichever was needed was nice. Flexible, really. Although, now wasn't the time to ask for a cooking example and he had much higher standards for that than waiting tables, so.]

Lunch and dinner are our busiest time and where I need the most help, so if you're okay to start off waiting tables and cleaning up when you can I'd like that. If you wanna cook, you'll have to show me what you can do before I agree to let you in the kitchen.

[He didn't mind teaching, so that wasn't an issue either if that was the case but that would have to be at a different time when things settled.]

What's your name, anyway?

[compendiem]

[ Minato being an ass is a hit or miss— though always unintentional, and less often if he keeps his mouth shut as he tends to do anyways. Like the way he almost looks like he wants to say something about being busboy of the year (he could totally be busboy of the year) but then decides not to when Kagami says that's dumb. ]

Minato Arisato.

[ He offers his hand to shake, with a firm enough grip, though the tips of his fingers are nearly ice cold. He's been outside, though, and it's still chilly at night. ]

Dinnertime would work better for me. I can wait tables and clean, and help you close too, so you're not spending all night here. I like being out at night, so...

[ Not that it matters when he's going to be indoors, but. Principle of the matter. ]

[taigastripes]

[Kagami took the hand shake, although he didn't mind the cold finger tips. It was still the ending of winter and the beginnings of spring, although his hands were very warm from cleaning up the place and the fact that the warmth from the kitchens still lingered within the diner.]

A nightowl? That works. I don't plan on staying open this late on a normal basis, so being able to clean house early would work.

[Dinner time, he expected, would likely be the busiest time since everyone's off school and work by then. The weekends are generally even busier from his experience in both America and Japan. It's just how it is. He nodded. It might've seemed like an easy interview, and it was, mostly because Kagami was still learning but he figured no better way to learn than on the spot for both him and whomever wants a job.]

Do you mind starting tomorrow?

[He wasn't kidding when he said he needed help, after all.]

Before Opening cause I do what I want...sorry I am late bb~ (For Kagami obviously lol)

[deliveryhawk]

[No way was Takao missing this opening, he had of course offered Kagami help whenever he needed it. He is still rather fond of the redhead basketballer after all and enjoys spending time with him.

He is there before the place is set to open, ready to help and with a congratulations gift tucked in some pretty wrapping paper. He gives a jaunty little knock at the door and waits for Kagami to come to open it.]

<3 It's fine, I'm a slowpoke rn too

[taigastripes]

[He was surprised that Takao was here early, he could see him through the door. While they were opening a bit after breakfast time, he still needed some last minute prepping. He opened the door.]

Hey, what's this?

a regular day in early april

[sighsheavily]

[ah. . . .

nostalgia continues to be a surplus no matter where she goes, hm? this is just a different flavor, and far less tied to painful personal connections. this is...it's like a shop back in Heropa. she always found the decor rather nauseating and the lights too bright and the crowds painful...thank goodness she's arrived here at open, when all is quiet.

in a state like this, it lacks those more negative associations, so only that strange and melancholic feeling of visiting the ghost of the long-ago.

...okay, enough of that drivel. she's here to eat. now, does she seat herself or does this place usher a body to a space...?]

[taigastripes]

[Within a month, things had calmed down and so the diner wasn't as crazy busy as it had been through weeks as buzz died down but people who enjoyed the food were returning customers. Word of mouth seemed to help, but Kagami was fairly relieved that aside from usual rushes, things were a lot more manageable.

The mornings, as usual, were not incredibly busy. That generally only happened on the weekends at best, and if someone wanted coffee there were multitudes of coffee shops to go to than a diner for a to-go cup (not that he didn't offer it). He was filling up a cup for a customer at the counter when he saw the redhead walk in and seemed a little unsure of where to go.]

You can sit anywhere, miss. Doesn't matter. I'll get a menu to you in a sec.

[sighsheavily]

[ah, good. that's fine, then -- she'll find herself somewhere she can sit without being too close to a window, positioned somewhere she can see most of the goings-on. she likes to be able to see as much as she can of a room at any given time, should hazards or persons of interest crop up, same as any place new she wanders into. people-watching as necessity, not hobby.

speaking of which: time to give some consideration to the staff. no overly forced, chipper facade? thank the gods. merchant-mannerisms are grating and Cecelia needs a few waking hours before she's ready to engage with it readily.

it's peculiar that he looks more fit for plate and a jousting lance than the menu he delivers; strapped for cash, perhaps? she can sympathize.]

My thanks. [she'll accept the menu and start peering at it.] If you don't mind, can you advise up-front what this particular place specializes in? [she dare not trust quantity over quality, after all.]

[taigastripes]

[Kagami is the least likely to be chipper. He knows how to be polite, as his coach could attest were she here, but being something like Kise? Hell no. His look already had people thinking he was angry all the time anyway.

When he handed her the menu and she asked about the specialty of this place, he couldn't help but frown a little.]

The menu's simple for a reason, so I dunno if I'd say we have a specialty. [He made a light grumbling noise as he scratched the back of his head.] Comfort food, I guess?

[sighsheavily]

[her brow arches at that, recalling a bit of food-talk with Claire at the masque. from what she gathered, comfort food is about feeling bloated and sleepy.........

...or utterly meat-filled, if this menu is anything to go by. her brow furrows.]

Is there...a chance there's something without meat here? [not that she's opposed, but...this early?]