Celebrations

Now, it was time to party! Or, at least, it would soon be. I arrived half an hour early, to check in on master, and possibly help her prepare for tonight. To my surprise, at the entrance a sign was posted. The entire place was reserved. It didn’t mean she was booked out, but that a group had rented the place for itself. Curious about it, I entered.
A small bell rang as I opened the door. Reacting to the sound of it from several years of work, poking her head up from working behind the counter. “Sorry, we are- Ah, Shuuichi. Welcome. You came early?”
“Hello master. Yes. I wanted to see if I could help with anything.”
Realizing it was me, her shoulders relaxed. “I told you before, when you come here, you do to have to help with anything, you are a customer. Also, it isn’t master anymore.”
She was right with that one. “Sorry, still a habit.”
“One you probably won’t get rid of anytime soon.” She beckoned my over to take a seat. “What can I get you?”
“Nothing yet. But I have a question. Did you reserve the place for us?”
“Yes. At first, I would only allow regulars in if it were you and the boys. But after seeing your message that it would be more people, I thought this would make you more comfortable.”
“And the usual guests?”
“I told them yesterday. So it’s fine.”

The time passed. I gave ma-, Misato an overview of what happened before, so she could have an understanding about what was going on. It might have become apparent to her from our conversation, but I had nothing else to do, so I made conversation.

Then, the first person appeared roughly ten minutes before the agreed time. It was Hanekawa, her entrance announced by the chime on the door.
“Welcome.” Misato greeted her.
She nodded in reply. To ease things up, I talked too. “I would normally give introductions, but please wait until the girls show up.”
“That’s alright. And, I will wait with ordering until the others are here.”
“Understood.” Master acted professionally, as expected.
As we were going to drink, I was a bit curious on her means of transportation. “How did you come here?”
“By train. For the way home, I am counting on you.”
“Huh?” I didn’t know about that.
“… Come on, don’t make that face, I am joking. I will be taking a taxi back.”
“Isn’t that expensive?”
“Safer than walking to a train station.”
“Well…” To be honest, I hadn’t really thought about these things before, thanks to my appearance scaring of most hooligans. And those that would still try to contest me, I could fend of with my abilities.

We didn’t wait for long, as five minutes later the rest of our gang came in. The chime rang once more, prompting our attention to the entryway.
“Welcome.”
“Pardon the intrusion.”
“Come on, there is no reason to excuse yourself.”
“Thank you for having us.”
“…”
The five newcomers looked around the bar. While four of them were fascinated, I could tell Takeshi was checking out the area for a different reason.
I tried to offer some talk. “You came together because?”
“Takeshi offered to drive us.”
“It may not be official work, but I can still look out for them.” He seemed a bit proud of his action, pulling himself up to full size.
“Don’t be so stiff. Today all of us celebrate together.” Came from the side.
“If you say so.” He relaxed his posture somewhat.
Everyone tumbled in, and decided on the table. Normally, there were several small tables, not one big enough to fit all of us. Master must have ordered them together. I didn’t even know the separating walls between tables could be removed, despite my years working here.

Now, with everyone settled in, master approached us to take our drink orders. I got up, taking it as opportunity for introduction.
“Then. Everyone, please allow me to introduce our host for tonight. My former boss, the owner of this establishment.”
“Pleased to make your acquaintance. My name is Hamon Misato.” Upon hearing her name, Takeshi’s face twisted. It seemed he knew about her family.
While it was true that she was the daughter of the head of the local group, she had cut her ties with him in regards to that. Due to a fight in the past, they rarely interact at all with each-other.
Putting the past aside, I thought about how to reassure him without expanding on the situation, but it looked like he accepted the fact, and moved on. Takeshi must have collected information beforehand, or Seiko told him it was alright.
After her, everyone else gave their name and so on. From my previous explanation, she should also know their positions. Then, it came time to order. While others were still hesitating with the menu, three orders came directly.
“Alcohol free beer please. I will be driving the girls home, so no alcohol for me for the night.”
“A regular one for me please.”
“A high ball for me.”
Takeshi, Megumi and Hanekawa all knew what they would be drinking. Before it could fall to me, I gestured to the girls.
“Eh, well…”
Noticing their distress, master reassured them. “You do not have to order alcoholic drinks if you do not want to.”
“Ah, that’s not it.” Asumi shook her hands.
“We would like to try some, however…” Haru tried to explain themselves, but-
“We have no experience.” In the end, Shizuka bluntly gave away the game.
As this was not the first time for something like that to happen, Master smiled at them reassuringly, giving them an easy option. “Then, may I recommend some drinks? Would a sweet flavor be alright?”
“Yes please.” The girls blushed for some reason in face with her perfect customer service smile. I knew how well she worked, so it was of no surprise to me she got along with them.
“Now, for you.” She turned to me, familiarity slipped through her work facade.
“Well, as I never had the chance to try much before-” My act didn’t last long.
“Officially, without sneaking it behind my back-” And she tried to get a punch in.
“Just give me a red wine.”
“Understood, dear customer.” This was one point I had been unsure about: would she keep her professional attitude around me, or would she play with me. The few times I had been here before with my sister and Seiko she talked was as if off the clock, since they were her friends first and foremost, customers after that. And now, I knew today I had to endure some teasing.

As she walked away, the questions came. “You are quite close.”
“She is a friend of my sister, so I knew her before I worked here, and we talked outside of work too. So more akin to an aunt, or a second sister, I guess.”
“You stole alcohol?”
“No. It was given to me by customers who ordered for me. Not that it worked out much, as she noticed this every time. She is actually quite strict about it. Perhaps on orders from my sister, or because a city official could show up any time and question her regarding it.”
“Which customers would do that?”
“Well, one example would be the guys we are going to meet tonight.” Their displeased reactions were quite strong, so I added this. “They did it in jest, and only offered beer or sake, no hard liquor. At other times, it was regulars when they were too drunk. I helped carry them out with their friends, and they gave unsolicited offers.”
“Now,” Takeshi interrupted. “you can take it slow. Grilling the poor boy doesn’t offer much.” Luckily, someone shifted the topic away from it.
“Say, you just mentioned the rock group right?” Hanekawa said. “Are they regulars too?”
And I jumped on the chance. “Yes. They come here quite often, which I how I came to know them. And don’t worry about them, they usually run late when they reserve a table. We can expect them in 30 minutes or so.”
“Then, why did we already come here?” Megumi, visibly annoyed at such bad practices, questioned it.
“For one of the rare cases where they managed to show up on time.” I answered, which she readily accepted.
“Which is once in a blue moon. Thank you for waiting, here are your drinks.” Master, coming in at an opportune time, handed them out. The girls looked at their nicely decorated cocktails with amazement. Blue sugar rim, skewered cherries, and probably plenty of orange juice.
“Sure you didn’t overdo it with the sweetness?” I threw her a jab.
“I think I can judge a guest better than you, former cook.” And got a fitting return.
“Alright, bartender.” Content with our exchange, I remembered the fact that aside form the two of us everyone was newcomers. “Also, I hope it is alright with you when master acts a bit more casual, as we will be joined by regulars, and I am a former worker here.”
“Personally, I do not mind.” Hanekawa looked at her, and master requited the gesture. They had come to some mind of understanding. ‘My thoughts were right, those two can get along.’
“Well, it might be better that way, no?”
“Better than a stiff stuffy service for sure. Ah, no bad meaning behind it.”
“More relaxing that way.”
The first time bar goers were in agreement. Takeshi shrugged, not caring either way.
“Then, I may dial back on the formality.” With a last formal bow, I could see her shoulders relaxing slightly.
I thought I might add a little more in her favor. “Oh, just as info: she reserved the entire place for us, not the guys.”
“Really? Thank you very much.” Our three compatriots were quite thrilled by that note.
Still, business minded like always, Megumi got curious. “That’s nice of you. But are you sure about the profits?”
“Please, do not worry about that. I will make sure the latecomers drink up for the difference.” A scary smile appeared. ‘Ah, they are screwed.’ “But all things aside, it will be fine.”
She stepped aside, leaving us to ourselves.

Taking a good look around each-other, we came to an understanding.
“Then, to our completed concert,”
“““““““Cheers!””””””” We clanged out glasses together in celebratory fashion. Everyone liked their drink.
“It is good quality.” “I agree. Mine too, despite being non-alcoholic.”
“Wow, this is good!” “Yes. Very sugary, but the fruit makes it good.” Another one continued sipping at her drink.
I tried the wine too. It had a deep profile, a kind I hadn’t tried before. Still the nice tangy after tone that I liked.
Turning to my right, I saw Hanekawa enjoying her drink too. I hadn’t had much doubt about master’s capabilities, but it was reassuring to see everyone taking positive to their beverages.

Now, our celebration was underway. It began with the others retelling me how their concert went, as I had been unable to attend. I got stage and background information, giving me a rather complete picture. But my main take-aways was, everyone had enjoyed themselves. So meddling had been the right choice.
Instead of giving my version of the events, I had wanted for the guys to appear, so the conversation turned into a different direction. Probably drunk more on the mood than their drinks, the girls appeared somewhat tipsy. Or rather, they were more open and forward.
The began thanking everyone around them.
Me for organizing, which was a bit too much in my opinion. “We have already talked about this, and you have already thanked me, so we are done. I am happy that things worked out for you, so let’s leave it at that.”
Takeshi for looking out for them, protecting them. “It is just my job. Plus, I enjoy the company. Now, don’t act as if I will leave. I intend on following you for some more years. Just continue moving forward, and leave the safety to me.” He tried to act unmoved, but I could tell he was indeed moved by their words.
Hanekawa for advising them. “There is no need to thank me.”
“There is. No matter what, you stuck to us.”
“That’s right, even from the very beginning, you helped us out.”
“And we are grateful for that.”
She blushed, and got up, heading for the bathroom. With the person next to me gone, I excused myself, heading to the bar. It appeared to have caused no suspicions, as I heard their conversation continue, shifting to Megumi.
Once there, I spoke up. “Master, I think a round of ice water might be needed.”
“Are they already drunk?” She was surprised.
“No, but the mood gets to them.”
“Alright, give me a moment.” She turned around, getting some ice.

Then, as Hanekawa moved out of the bath, I waved her over. She actually came.
“Is something the matter?”
“No. But, aren’t you glad you came? You told me how you felt and might not attend.”
“Yes, I am glad I game. You don’t have to rub it in.” I smiled, having found a point to finally tease her back. Then, master gave a quick note.
“It might not be my point to interfere, but from the lives I have witnessed here, there is one piece of advice I could give: If you have an opportunity, take it. Otherwise, you might regret it in the future.” She came around, with a tablet carrying glasses. I let her walk first, to give her more space to set them on the table.
Making sure there was enough distance, I turned to my fellow guest. “Sorry. She doesn’t mean this as being noisy.”
“I know.” She fell a bit silent. The words must have resonated with her somehow. ‘How come I need time, but master can always walk up to people, say a few words, and gets along with everyone? I should have learned more from her.’

Once she was done, we took back our seats. Now, all eyes were focused on us, no one talking. ‘So there had been an effect by me walking away at the same time…’
“Something up?” Hanekawa broke the silence.
“See, I was right?” Haru said.
“Now I can see it clearly too.” Asumi commented.
“Actually fits nicely.” Shizuka followed up.
I shifted my gaze to the two people who didn’t say anything. They just shook their heads without giving a comment on their own. With no further options, I asked. “So, will you enlighten us what this is about?”
As no one else answered, Takeshi did. “They think you two would make a good couple.”
“Wai-” “Wha-” To the shock of Hanekawa and me.
Immediately, Haru called back on him. “Unfair Takeshi! You said you wouldn’t rat us out!”
Which didn’t faze him at all. “They would have found out in a minute when one of you misspoke.”
With a wry smile, Asumi admitted “Well, that might have happened.”
“Still!” It wasn’t enough to calm her entirely.
Calming her friends outbreak, Shizuka diverted her attention from Takeshi back to us. “So? What do you think?” After giving no direct reply to her quizzing us, she elaborates slightly. “Do you think you would get along like we assume?”
While my thoughts ran in different places, cursing myself to have brought in the cold water too late, or asking how they got drunk so quickly when we agreed everyone eat before we meet up, my supposed partner was already back on track. “How did you come to the conclusion?”
“Well, you two bicker, but always make up.” “Whisper to each-other in private.” “And have a nice mood going on.”
“And that is enough for you to qualify us as a couple?” I could tell she was annoyed, but whether it came from opposition to the idea or something worse, like utter horror distaste, I didn’t manage to read. But I hoped and thought it couldn’t be too bad.
“Well…” “Not quite.” Asumi and Shizuka quickly gave in. But Haru, who had been the most vocal about it since the beginning, didn’t back down as easily.
“Come on! Let us have this fun! As idols most of our coworkers are women too, so we don’t have many chances to put people together.” ‘Couldn’t you put women together?’ I was unsure whether I could ask a question like that. But I didn’t need to, as my answer came on its own. “With them we know when they are together or not, so speculating isn’t as much fun.”
Hanekawa could only sigh in response. Now, that she had talked, focus shifted to me. “So, what about you?”
“Hm?” I got tense, fearing the coming question.
“You haven’t said anything. How do you feel about this.” Haru wasn’t giving up, now taking me as new source for her entertainment. I could feel the gazes fall onto me. I took a glance at Hanekawa, and saw curious expression.
‘Now, what is the proper answer here?’ I was running circles in my mind, on how to answer, when I got to a central point: be honest. Bracing for the worst, I spoke my mind.
“Honestly, it might work out.” People drew in air collectively. “While we have our quarrels, we get along, and I do not think badly of her. Still, I do not know if it would actually work out or not, for that I would need to get to know her better. So maybe, friends first?”
There, I did it. Whatever came now, I would accept.

Hanekawa took a full glass, and downed it in one go. Smacking it down on the table again, the clang resounding through the bar. Wait, when did she get a second drink?
“Just who the hell do you think you are, friend-zoning me like it is nothing.” Was she angry?
“Oh, things are getting hot.”
“Now now, don’t quit so quickly.”
“Yes. For once, just entertain the idea. Think about how you would be as a couple.”
After several more interjections, I actually focused on it. What would it be like to be in a relationship with her? Most of my examples about relationships was from media only, so my thoughts drifted in that direction. I tried to discern what was just added for dramatical flare, and what it boiled down to. I hadn't thought much about this before, so it took me some time.
Seeing me getting lost in thought, seriously thinking about the scenario, might have been the reason for her next outburst. “Alright, that’s enough! End of this discussion!” Hanekawa smacked the table, pulling me back to reality. Now, looking at her, I kind of felt, different, somehow. I couldn't describe it. ‘Must be the alcohol.’

From there, we had silly banter, until, an hour late, the SilverCrows finally flew in.
“Sorry for the delay.” They seemed apologetic. At last halfheartedly, joking about it.
“Welcome, dear guests.” Master greeted them, with her business attitude.
“Yo.” A hand raised in greeting. “Wait, why are you formal to us, master?”
“I do not know what you are talking about. Formal talk is needed to keep one’s distance from trash that let’s women wait for more than an hour.” While her voice may have been warm, she made disgust visible in her eyes, her smile eerily cold.
“When you talk like this, it actually hurts.”
Now, they had finally joined us. Getting their first round of beer, we ordered new drinks too. As things were to officially start, master distributed various snack across our table.
Everyone was finally assembled. “Now, we might be late, but we can still toast to our success, so-”
““““““““““““Cheers!”””””””””””” The resounding chorus made it feel like a real party.
They introduced themselves. I had expected them to act really open and casual, but to my surprise they had some tact left, and acted rather normal to the younger women present here. Seeing their rational behavior, Takeshi allowed his shoulders to relax. ‘Poor man, even though this is a celebration, he is basically working overtime, unpaid. Maybe I should get him a present some time?’
After thanking each other for agreeing with the venue exchange, talks started about how either of their concerts went. From there on, things kept revolving around music, their discussion descending into territory people like me couldn't follow. Megumi shared an avid interest in how they managed themselves, without a company backing them. Such organizations should be something to marvel at. Her disappointment turned to fury, as she heard they just winged it. Everyone had a good time, sharing private stories and dreams. ‘Perhaps they could actually become friends.’

The night continued, and so did the drinks. Everyone was careful not to overdo it. …Well, at least the members of our group. With the loosened inhibitions, we were treated to song numbers from most people present. It was quite an experience to switch from listening to soothing idol melodies and energetic rock songs on a quick basis.
As the discussion groups formed once again, Hanekawa had removed herself from the talk and the table, heading for the counter. While it was interesting to see a tonal shift in the usual music conversations, changing from the idol songs I was used to by then to the more vigorous and powerful rock tracks, soon enough what little knowledge I had accumulated was exhausted. So I went off too, intending to to join Hanekawa, and gave a quick sign to Takeshi, who nodded. One of the advantages of his constant work mode was that he quickly picked up on these things. I really had to give him a gift in the future. Asking him to move away with us from the musical talents may have looked like an option, but I doubted he would leave their side on his own will. Not only from a professional standpoint, but caring for them on a personal level.

Hanekawa was slowly sipping her drink, noticing my approach. I chose my timing, as she had been talking with master in between. Thinking about how to start a conversation, I went with the first thing on my mind.
“Sorry about that before. You know, my answer to their prodding.”
Disbelief was written in her face. “You bought that? I was just pulling your leg, you know.” ‘So, I had worried for nothing?’ “I know you are not picking up on these things quickly, but there should be a limit to slowness.” ‘Ouch.’ But the next part had a kindness in her voice I hadn’t expected. “Still, that’s part of what makes it fun to tease you.”
Was she letting out more than intended due to the alcohol? Or was it just another trick? No matter which it was, it meant she thought we got along, and that was what counted for me.
“Sorry. I don’t know how to answer in these kind of situations, so I simply chose to tell the truth, accepting any outcome.”
“You…” I didn't know what to make of her short reply.
Before a longer reaction could come from her, master came back. She cast her eyes over the rowdy table behind us, smiling in satisfaction. “Nice to see them get along.”
“Yes. To be honest, even though the idea of joining the two groups together came from me, I was still a bit worried that things might not work out.” I hadn’t talked or showed any of these worries before. My gut feeling had told em it should work out. But as that was not a professional attitude to take, I refrained from mentioning that.
“If they would have done anything stupid, I would have intervened. Not that would have the confidence to do so in my store. Anyway, I’ll check up on them for a moment, see if they need any more drinks.” And with that, just as she had arrived, she vanished again.

The last thing I had brought up had been the talk of a hypothetical relationship, so the mood turned weird, and silence fell over us as we were by yourselves. Entertaining the thought a bit more, it didn’t seem as outlandish anymore. To be truthful, I didn’t think of it badly at all. It looked as if it would be a nice situation. But suddenly bringing that up was not something I felt comfortable or capable of, so I pushed it aside for the moment.
Instead, we started talking about things we had planned for the future, how things might change now, and so on.

At some point, Saji came up from behind me without me noticing. Flanking me, he threw his arm around my shoulders “Come, you can drink some more. It is our first time being able to actually drink together under Misato’s watch, so we have to make the most out of it.”
From his lulling speech, I managed to get one detail. “You are clearly drunk.”
“Okay, let’s call it quits here for today.” And I wasn't the only one who thought so, as Master intervened.
“Eh, why?” He was too far gone to realize the current situation. But how did he get drunk so quickly? Did they drink before even getting here?
“You guys had enough. Also, the others have work the next day, so let them rest.”
“Tch, fine.” He turned to his colleagues. “Everyone say goodbye, they heading off soon. We cut talks short tonight.” At least he still had enough mental faculties to grasp the overall situation.
Various unjoyful replies could be heard, that quickly grew more and more silent, as master was glaring at them.

We then gathered outside, most of us. The guys were still in, talking among themselves some more. It might have looked excessive, but this was a huge breakthrough for them, so I ought to let that one slide. However, as a first impression on the people they met today, it was not the best.
“I am surprised they let us go so easily.”
“Oh, they weren’t getting clingy or anything, they just…”
“Seemed in the mood to party on.”
I wanted to but an end to speculations of bad endings. “Well, they know, if they do not obey master, it can end badly.”
“Like?” Megumi showed interest. What caught my interest was she had drunk about the same as the rockers, but still was acting sober.
“No more drinks is the easiest solution. Otherwise, temporary blacklist, or getting thrown out.”
Quickly, someone found a loophole in my thoughts to the last idea. “But, aren’t they adult men?”
It would have been a concern normally, but “That doesn’t mean much around here.”
“But how-”
“Don’t worry about it.” Probably the only person who knew what I meant was Takeshi. Now, the conversation shifted away from the other guys, and back to the establishment itself.
“Still, this is a nice place here.” Asumi obviously had enjoyed the atmosphere.
As a former employee, it made me happy to hear that. Not only that, I could give some additional advice. “During actual hours, I advice getting counter seats. And if they are occupied, simply call for master, she will clear some.”
Shizuka picked up on a hidden meaning there. “How come? Is it usually different here?”
And Haru worried about the other guests. “Isn’t sending them away kinda cruel?”
Though, they wasn’t much warrant for either concern. “Don’t worry about it. Let’s just say, some of the regulars here are… a bit like me. Scary face, but kind.” Explaining it like this actually hurt me. “Or call in advance, and tell her you are coming. She will get some prime seats for you.”
The four of them then starting talking among themselves, about a plan when to visit by themselves. Hanekawa and Takeshi were having a smoke near the entrance. He beckoned me over.

The entire night, I had noticed one thing about Takeshi: he was taking a slightly outsider position, more observing. At first, I had thought it was due to him being concerned for the girls, watching over them. But as time passed, I felt his gaze from time to time on me. He had been observing me too, but I didn’t know why.
Now, talking with him, it became clear to me.
With a slightly sad voice, he announced. “Come to the boss’s office tomorrow, about ten or so. He will tell you your new position.”
The only reason for him to tell me with this timing, was because his observation must have played a role in the decision. Thinking back, I had behaved myself properly this night. There may have been a few rough patches, but it was outside of work. Just what would my sentence be?
“So, you will be present during the talk?”
“Yes.” He put his cigarette out. “Don’t worry, I won’t mention the connections of this place. I realized it has no influence on your work. And I won’t talk badly about you either. Simply, I will state the facts about how you worked.”
With that, he set off. Picking up the girls, and made for his car. Before leaving, they quickly ran over, and with enough liquid courage to express themselves, hugged Hanekawa. She in turn blushed, and after a bit of hesitating, returned the gesture. With everyone having huge smiles plastered across their faces, they parted. Finally, we waved each other, and soon enough, they vanished into the night.
Now, it was only two of us left. Teasing her about just now would be unfair, so I chose a different topic. “You smoke too?”
“Occasionally, but rarely.”
“Wouldn’t have thought that.” After a short break, I added. “It is bad for you.”
“I know, I’m not stupid.” She took on last draw of it. “But at times it helps me calm down when stressed. …I really have to look into alternatives.”
“You seem to have enough control over it, so I wouldn't fret too much. Just don’t let it get any worse.”
She took it in good humor. “Good timing for you to wait until Takeshi was gone. If he would hear that…” After that last comment, she too put out her cigarette.

I had hoped to ease into the next part, but as that was not really an option anymore, I went to the heart of it, turning to directly face her. “About the talk with Takeshi right now,”
“I will ignore it ever happened.” She returned my stare. While it was left unsaid what part exactly I was referring to, it was obvious enough to not warrant mentioning.
With that heavier thing out of our way, some lightheartedness returned. “If I manage to remember at all, that is.” She said jokingly, holding a hand against her temple.
Her movement too seemed unsteady to me. “Are you really fine?”
“Yeah, just a bit tipsy.” I looked at her doubtfully. “Okay, maybe more than a bit. I might call in sick tomorrow.”
“If you really feel not good, I can take you to my place, it’s nearby.” It wasn’t actually mine, but my sister’s, though I doubt she would mind if I brought someone to rest.
Naturally as this conversation and situation had a certain cliché to it, Hanekawa made a connection and opted for a joke. “Heh, you hoping for-”
“No.” Before she could finish her usual teasing line, I interrupted. “I am serious right now. If you are not fine, you come with me. This is not a pick up, I am genuinely concerned.”
My sudden change to earnestness was a slight shock to her. It might have sobered her up a bit, even. “Just joking. When I am out with my friends, we often end up in states similar or worse than I am now.”
“That sounds concerning.” Although I had lived through similar situations before with my extended family.
“Don’t worry, I will get home. But thanks, for the sentiment.” Her smile seemed especially bright to me in the dark night around us.
“It’s only natural, I wouldn’t let you down like that. If something ever happens, and you feel like you wont make it back on your won, just hit me up. I will get you somewhere safe.” Just imagining that she and others were misled by a group of thugs made me shudder.
“Heh…” She started smiling. “Well then, I will be fine for today. I had already called a taxi befo- Speak of the devil.” A cab drove up, the door in the rear compartment opening.
“I will take you up on your offer, when needed. For now though, goodnight.”
“Good night.” I saw her off, the taxi driving further into the darkness.

I contemplated staying, and helping out with the guys inside. But reminding how master had already stopped them from getting me to drink more, I decided to accept her favor, and leave things in her hands. They would probably sleep at the tables for the night, which wouldn’t be a first for them.
Now, I made my way back myself. I had probably drunk the least of anyone, except Takeshi, but I was still careful and decided to take it slow and walk to the nearest train station. Crashing at my sister’s place was an option, but I was still well enough to make it to my own place.
Making it in time for the last, I then rode, getting closer to my home, and a night’s sleep. Which I would need, for tomorrow was bound to be interesting, to say the least.