Nicolai's nose crinkled momentarily as his name was finally called, a little disappointed at first but then he shot one of his care free grins at Nasku with an acknowledging nod. He obviously wasn't going to be starring but then he did still manage to pull a pivotal character. Not to mention he had already promised to help around the place, there was no way that he would be able to star AND work his ass off for Nasku if he was going to be front and centre. This would give him the opportunity do display his skills both on and off the stage and possibly endear him to their boss so that he could land bigger and better roles in the future.
He made small talk with a few of the men, shot a wink at the young giggly girl who had only landed a small part of a fairy and then pretended to be busy with his jacket while everyone filed out. When the last of the new troupe we're gone he sauntered over to Nasku who seemed busy with some paper work.
He cleared his throat to announce his presence, not sure if Nasku had been too distracted to recall his promise of a post-rehearsal meet. "I am looking forward to working with you in the upcoming weeks. I'm sorry if I am disturbing you at the moment, do you need me to come back later today or do you have any other tasks you need me to do, my skills and hands are yours to command" Nicolai said with a flourish and another bow, grinning in a way that acknowledged he was going a little over the top but still being respectful.
Straightening he made a quarter turn as he seemingly observed the space away from the stage while still keeping an eye on the man beside him, trying to get a better feel of who he was, what he wanted and how best HE could fill that roll. "This is truly a magnificent hall, or it will be once it is all complete. I practically get shivers already thinking about opening night in a place such as this. Have you decided which seat or box will be yours?"
Boy Toys
Re: Boy Toys
Nasku was putting away the left-over copies of the script and his notes on who might be good at playing which role as Nicolai walked up to him. He raised an amused eyebrow at the way the other man phrased his willingness to work, and Nasku couldn’t help but wonder if the innuendo had been inserted on purpose or not. For a brief second, there was a very vivid image in his mind as to how exactly Nicolai could put his hands to work before he shook his head in amusement and pushed away from his desk.
“Yes, it truly is magnificent,” Nasku agreed, following Nicolai’s motion, his lit-up eyes going over the various spots he knew still needed work but taking it all in with a certain degree of pride. “I couldn’t not do something with this place when I saw it, even if it is a little out of the way of the usual hunting grounds. There is just something about this place. If only we can get the balustrade right. And that is where you will be needed most, right away,” he threw in as a side comment, his eyes continuing to roam over the place.
“That is my biggest worry for this hall. Everything else could be muddled a little if necessary, even if that would certainly not be my preference. At all. But with the balustrade in place the way I am imagining it, you’ll see, it’ll be even more beautiful. And opening night… well, if all goes well it will be splendid and a complete success.” Inside his mind, Nasku was already there, with the lights shining brightly, people arranged comfortably in their seats or leaning excitedly over the edges of the boxes, actors excitedly putting final touches on costumes before the play started.
Nicolai’s next question pulled him back to the present and he turned to face the man. “Me?! Oh…” Nasku looked a little sheepish. “Not at all actually. I have worried and wondered over so many things, I have not in the least considered where I might be sitting.”
He looked around the place once more but couldn’t really picture himself in any of the seats. Or the boxes for that matter. “Do you have a suggestion?”
“Yes, it truly is magnificent,” Nasku agreed, following Nicolai’s motion, his lit-up eyes going over the various spots he knew still needed work but taking it all in with a certain degree of pride. “I couldn’t not do something with this place when I saw it, even if it is a little out of the way of the usual hunting grounds. There is just something about this place. If only we can get the balustrade right. And that is where you will be needed most, right away,” he threw in as a side comment, his eyes continuing to roam over the place.
“That is my biggest worry for this hall. Everything else could be muddled a little if necessary, even if that would certainly not be my preference. At all. But with the balustrade in place the way I am imagining it, you’ll see, it’ll be even more beautiful. And opening night… well, if all goes well it will be splendid and a complete success.” Inside his mind, Nasku was already there, with the lights shining brightly, people arranged comfortably in their seats or leaning excitedly over the edges of the boxes, actors excitedly putting final touches on costumes before the play started.
Nicolai’s next question pulled him back to the present and he turned to face the man. “Me?! Oh…” Nasku looked a little sheepish. “Not at all actually. I have worried and wondered over so many things, I have not in the least considered where I might be sitting.”
He looked around the place once more but couldn’t really picture himself in any of the seats. Or the boxes for that matter. “Do you have a suggestion?”
Re: Boy Toys
Nicolai felt butterflies briefly flutter in his chest before settling once more. He couldn't tell if it was merely his shared excitement at the soon-to-be glory of the theatre and the vision Nasku was bringing to life or if it was the excitement for the place that he obviously had. There was something about someone so passionate that it could stir anothers' heart, and if they cared enough, the people around them would start to care too. If Nasku continued his involvement to the level Nicolai has seen thus far, instead of merely fading into the background and throwing money at the place, he had no doubts that within a few years, maybe even less, this place would be much more than a simple success.
Nicolai paused for a moment, surprised both at the fact that Nasku had not already stolen a prized spot for himself and his lovers, family, or guests and that he was bothering to ask him for advice. He thought for a moment as he rotated, judging the space.
"Well I suppose it depends on what you desire from your performances." He began "If you plan on taking an active role in managing on opening nights and such, being close to an exit along the wings would be best." He said nodding towards the side. "Easy access for troubleshooting or for anyone backstage to come with questions without causing too much of a disturbance."
"Otherwise one of the box seats would be best and then it depends on your planned uses of it..." He paused and grinned roguishly at Nasku. "If you are planning on bringing any lady friends or lovers, a box near the back would be much more....private. Whereas if you plan on flattering or showing off to those in high society, they would prefer one of the front ones, all the better to be seen by their competition. Myself.....I prefer it right here."
Nicolai sat down in the dead centre of the front row and looked up at Nasku. "I know...it's often the cheapest seats and no one who is anyone would be caught dead in them." He rolled his eyes as he put on a slight posh twang before continuing normally "But I like being close enough to see the actors sweat, so to say. To see every detail in their faces, their costumes. Even to be able to watch the orchestra from this close can be amazing. Plus it's easier to stretch your legs out." Nicolai joked as he stretched his legs out into the space in front of him.
He waited a moment before jumping up, not wanting to seem lazying or appearing to take advantage of Nasku's precious time and momentary companionship. "Well I forgot to pack a lunch today, first audition in a while so I had the jitters." He chuckled, "If you don't mind me heading out and grabbing something to eat, I can make sure I am back and working hard within the hour. With my role it shouldn't be too difficult at all to balance learning my lines and pulling my weight around here." He waited to be released and hoped that the pastry from breakfast was enough to keep his stomach from growling.
Nicolai paused for a moment, surprised both at the fact that Nasku had not already stolen a prized spot for himself and his lovers, family, or guests and that he was bothering to ask him for advice. He thought for a moment as he rotated, judging the space.
"Well I suppose it depends on what you desire from your performances." He began "If you plan on taking an active role in managing on opening nights and such, being close to an exit along the wings would be best." He said nodding towards the side. "Easy access for troubleshooting or for anyone backstage to come with questions without causing too much of a disturbance."
"Otherwise one of the box seats would be best and then it depends on your planned uses of it..." He paused and grinned roguishly at Nasku. "If you are planning on bringing any lady friends or lovers, a box near the back would be much more....private. Whereas if you plan on flattering or showing off to those in high society, they would prefer one of the front ones, all the better to be seen by their competition. Myself.....I prefer it right here."
Nicolai sat down in the dead centre of the front row and looked up at Nasku. "I know...it's often the cheapest seats and no one who is anyone would be caught dead in them." He rolled his eyes as he put on a slight posh twang before continuing normally "But I like being close enough to see the actors sweat, so to say. To see every detail in their faces, their costumes. Even to be able to watch the orchestra from this close can be amazing. Plus it's easier to stretch your legs out." Nicolai joked as he stretched his legs out into the space in front of him.
He waited a moment before jumping up, not wanting to seem lazying or appearing to take advantage of Nasku's precious time and momentary companionship. "Well I forgot to pack a lunch today, first audition in a while so I had the jitters." He chuckled, "If you don't mind me heading out and grabbing something to eat, I can make sure I am back and working hard within the hour. With my role it shouldn't be too difficult at all to balance learning my lines and pulling my weight around here." He waited to be released and hoped that the pastry from breakfast was enough to keep his stomach from growling.
Re: Boy Toys
“So much to think about,” Nasku mused as he took the place in once again, considering Nicolai’s suggestions. A wicked glint had entered his eye at the mention of a private box near the back for doing dark deeds. It was a thought worth contemplating. Though at the same time he relished the idea of being close to the action and being readily available in case there was need of him. “I will take it all under advisement. Thank you very much. The family will of course have one of the best boxes in the house but I do not think I will be joining them there.”
Nasku’s thoughts swirled briefly around the impression it would make on his family when they saw this masterpiece of a refurbished theatre. Or not. He hoped they would recognise the accomplishment but apart from his beloved sister, he didn’t really have high hopes of any of them even showing their faces. Some more gossip for the elite of Marn. Ah well, what was one more thing? He had long ago learned not to care all too much about these things, it was what allowed him to operate the way he did.
At the mention of lunch, Nasku looked back at Nicolai, a tiny hint of panic making itself known in the pit of his stomach. Gosh, what was the time?! Clearing his throat, he nodded. “Of course not. Take an hour and be back here with a full stomach. There is much yet to do and I’m pretty sure that it will be overtime for the rest of the days until opening night.”
Moving away from the man who was most certainly going to be on his way immediately – it had been a long day for him already as well after all – he suddenly stopped and turned around, calling to the actor. “Nicolai? Would you mind terribly grabbing me something as well? I’m afraid I cannot leave the theatre at the moment as I have some meetings scheduled here and it seems I have miscalculated and forgot to factor in lunch.”
He went to the coat he had once again placed across one of the chairs close to his working station and pulled out a purse. Grabbing a few coins, he offered them to Nicolai with a small smile. “And as a thank you, lunch is on me. I’m not fussy. Just bring me something I can bite into that will keep me going for a while. Nothing fancy. And grab some drinks to tide us over the rest of the day. I really appreciate it!” That was certainly something he was going to have to remedy. Not just for himself but also for the actors over the coming days. They needed more refreshments.
Nasku’s thoughts swirled briefly around the impression it would make on his family when they saw this masterpiece of a refurbished theatre. Or not. He hoped they would recognise the accomplishment but apart from his beloved sister, he didn’t really have high hopes of any of them even showing their faces. Some more gossip for the elite of Marn. Ah well, what was one more thing? He had long ago learned not to care all too much about these things, it was what allowed him to operate the way he did.
At the mention of lunch, Nasku looked back at Nicolai, a tiny hint of panic making itself known in the pit of his stomach. Gosh, what was the time?! Clearing his throat, he nodded. “Of course not. Take an hour and be back here with a full stomach. There is much yet to do and I’m pretty sure that it will be overtime for the rest of the days until opening night.”
Moving away from the man who was most certainly going to be on his way immediately – it had been a long day for him already as well after all – he suddenly stopped and turned around, calling to the actor. “Nicolai? Would you mind terribly grabbing me something as well? I’m afraid I cannot leave the theatre at the moment as I have some meetings scheduled here and it seems I have miscalculated and forgot to factor in lunch.”
He went to the coat he had once again placed across one of the chairs close to his working station and pulled out a purse. Grabbing a few coins, he offered them to Nicolai with a small smile. “And as a thank you, lunch is on me. I’m not fussy. Just bring me something I can bite into that will keep me going for a while. Nothing fancy. And grab some drinks to tide us over the rest of the day. I really appreciate it!” That was certainly something he was going to have to remedy. Not just for himself but also for the actors over the coming days. They needed more refreshments.
Re: Boy Toys
He was gleaning tidbits of information about Nasku, from the glint in his eye at the mention of a darkened, private box to the implication of family drama. But this was probably well known if Nicolai bothered to look deeper into Nasku and his family. When he got a moment of time he would have to find his way to a pub or scout about on his own and try to glean some more information about who this man was. He kicked himself for not doing this prior even if much of his time in Marn had been in construction and rustling up side jobs as a musician or a companion of sorts...
Nicolai breathed a sigh of relief as he exited the theatre. When he had been asked to bring Nasku lunch he had started to panic. Until he got any kind of pay from his work here, he only had a few bishans to tide him over. His lunch plans for the day was to get a day old hunk of bread, maybe some cheese. Any other time he would have loved the chance to treat someone, to show off a bit and use it as an opportunity to open the doors of friendship further. Thankfully he was able to swallow the embarrassment of having to be given money and was at least thankful that his new boss seemed to be at least a little generous.
With an hour granted for a lunch Nicolai had decided not to waste it. He stuck to his bread and cheese plan, merely adding an apple to the mix. He munched on his lunch as he walked trying to decided how best to spend the money he had been given, especially since he had barely touched it with his meal. Nasku certainly didn't seem picky and it was his money but still, there were many ways to succeed or go wrong.
In the end he decided on what seemed like a simple sandwich from on of the classier pubs that he often frequented when wanting to pretend he was more then just a tradesman. The small loaf for the sandwich was made and delivered fresh each day from a baker just down the street. Everything else on it, from the meat to the greens, were also fresh and crisp. Making sure it was wrapped tightly in the parchment, he quickly thought about what kind of drinks might quench Nasku's thirst. Was he hoping for something alcoholic? Or something simpler to keep his thoughts straight while on the job.
He grinned as he got an idea and started a conversation with the bartender. Within a few moment he was walking out of the bar with two small bottle of ginger beer, refreshing with very little alcohol. He also had a bottle of red wine - nothing too fancy or pricey but something that hopefully Nasku wouldn't turn his nose up at. It had taken a few moments to convince the bartender to let him open a tab that he would pay by the end of the month but as he came in often enough and generally was able to attract other customers who were willing to spend money, it wasn't too hard to come to an agreement.
As the sun peaked in the sky Nicolai could feel the sweat starting to roll down the back of his neck, between his shoulder blades. Looking down at the small bottles he could already see them sweating as well and he knew there was a good chance they wouldn't be as crisp and cool by the time he got back. When he passed by a well Nic got an idea. Stripping off his jacket from the rehearsal he then remove his shirt before quickly sliding back into his jacket and doing the buttons up. While it wasn't totally uncommon for a man to be seen shirtless around town, Nicolai didn't exactly want to be seen half naked in such a public setting at this point. Filling the communal bucket with fresh, cool, well water he took a quick drink before dunking his shirt in the water and then quickly wrapping the small bottles in it. It wouldn't last long in this autumn heat but it would keep the bottles cool enough until he got back to the theatre.
As he climbed the steps Nic grinned as he got another idea. Setting everything down for a moment he undid the buttons of his suit jacket. Sadly once inside the light layer of sweat glistening on his stomach wouldn't be as noticeable and appealing but while he was not perfect he was still impressively in shape. Next he unwrapped the drinks from the now warming cloth and let the shirt hang from his back pocket. He still had his work shirt hidden with the rest of his things and as long as none of the fired folk from earlier had seen it and made off with it he would be appropriately dressed for the rest of the day.
Armed with his purchases Nicolai made a quiet entry. He hadn't taken the full hour and Nasku was still in one of his meetings, by the looks of things it could be investors. But he was happy to see that the guests had their backs to him which Nasku was facing toward the back. Quietly he managed to catch Nasku's attention and raised the sandwich in his hand as a greeting, his jacket opening a bit more, before nodding over to the corner that he had done his pre-rehearsal change in that day.
Without interrupting them he quickly got out of sight and shed his jacket. The cooler air within the building felt good against his hot skin and he let himself stand there for a moment, cooling off a bit before grabbing his work shirt and doing up the buttons. He probably still had a little bit of time before the meeting was over and since the hour wasn't quite up Nicolai sunk to the floor and grabbed his script, intent on trying to read through his new part at least once before starting the second half of his day.
Nicolai breathed a sigh of relief as he exited the theatre. When he had been asked to bring Nasku lunch he had started to panic. Until he got any kind of pay from his work here, he only had a few bishans to tide him over. His lunch plans for the day was to get a day old hunk of bread, maybe some cheese. Any other time he would have loved the chance to treat someone, to show off a bit and use it as an opportunity to open the doors of friendship further. Thankfully he was able to swallow the embarrassment of having to be given money and was at least thankful that his new boss seemed to be at least a little generous.
With an hour granted for a lunch Nicolai had decided not to waste it. He stuck to his bread and cheese plan, merely adding an apple to the mix. He munched on his lunch as he walked trying to decided how best to spend the money he had been given, especially since he had barely touched it with his meal. Nasku certainly didn't seem picky and it was his money but still, there were many ways to succeed or go wrong.
In the end he decided on what seemed like a simple sandwich from on of the classier pubs that he often frequented when wanting to pretend he was more then just a tradesman. The small loaf for the sandwich was made and delivered fresh each day from a baker just down the street. Everything else on it, from the meat to the greens, were also fresh and crisp. Making sure it was wrapped tightly in the parchment, he quickly thought about what kind of drinks might quench Nasku's thirst. Was he hoping for something alcoholic? Or something simpler to keep his thoughts straight while on the job.
He grinned as he got an idea and started a conversation with the bartender. Within a few moment he was walking out of the bar with two small bottle of ginger beer, refreshing with very little alcohol. He also had a bottle of red wine - nothing too fancy or pricey but something that hopefully Nasku wouldn't turn his nose up at. It had taken a few moments to convince the bartender to let him open a tab that he would pay by the end of the month but as he came in often enough and generally was able to attract other customers who were willing to spend money, it wasn't too hard to come to an agreement.
As the sun peaked in the sky Nicolai could feel the sweat starting to roll down the back of his neck, between his shoulder blades. Looking down at the small bottles he could already see them sweating as well and he knew there was a good chance they wouldn't be as crisp and cool by the time he got back. When he passed by a well Nic got an idea. Stripping off his jacket from the rehearsal he then remove his shirt before quickly sliding back into his jacket and doing the buttons up. While it wasn't totally uncommon for a man to be seen shirtless around town, Nicolai didn't exactly want to be seen half naked in such a public setting at this point. Filling the communal bucket with fresh, cool, well water he took a quick drink before dunking his shirt in the water and then quickly wrapping the small bottles in it. It wouldn't last long in this autumn heat but it would keep the bottles cool enough until he got back to the theatre.
As he climbed the steps Nic grinned as he got another idea. Setting everything down for a moment he undid the buttons of his suit jacket. Sadly once inside the light layer of sweat glistening on his stomach wouldn't be as noticeable and appealing but while he was not perfect he was still impressively in shape. Next he unwrapped the drinks from the now warming cloth and let the shirt hang from his back pocket. He still had his work shirt hidden with the rest of his things and as long as none of the fired folk from earlier had seen it and made off with it he would be appropriately dressed for the rest of the day.
Armed with his purchases Nicolai made a quiet entry. He hadn't taken the full hour and Nasku was still in one of his meetings, by the looks of things it could be investors. But he was happy to see that the guests had their backs to him which Nasku was facing toward the back. Quietly he managed to catch Nasku's attention and raised the sandwich in his hand as a greeting, his jacket opening a bit more, before nodding over to the corner that he had done his pre-rehearsal change in that day.
Without interrupting them he quickly got out of sight and shed his jacket. The cooler air within the building felt good against his hot skin and he let himself stand there for a moment, cooling off a bit before grabbing his work shirt and doing up the buttons. He probably still had a little bit of time before the meeting was over and since the hour wasn't quite up Nicolai sunk to the floor and grabbed his script, intent on trying to read through his new part at least once before starting the second half of his day.
Re: Boy Toys
Nicolai was barely out the door when one of the contractors appeared in front of Nasku with a grim face. “You haven’t paid my bill yet.”
“That’s because you haven’t delivered what I asked you to,” Nasku replied in a calm tone, refusing to match the man’s already angry one.
And that was only the beginning of a lot of back and forth, which did end in a shouting match after all, which Nasku won. He was after all an Oslun and an Oslun was not easily refused. They were firmly upper class and any contractor worth his salt would not want to be bad-mouthed by someone like Nasku. So after a bit of shouting, they came to an agreement that appeased them both.
When the contractor went on his way, he had a satisfied smirk on his face while Nasku grinned at his back. It was a nuisance, this kind of haggling, but he had to admit that he did take some enjoyment from it. He scribbled a few hasty notes to be handed to two suppliers, which he sent on his way with the errand boy, who had just appeared with a note from his sister, along with a coin for a cool drink which the boy accepted with a delighted grin. Ruffling his hair, Nasku whispered: “Our secret, alright?”
As the boy dashed outside, he almost knocked into a couple of well-to-do businessmen who were just entering the theatre and gave him a disapproving look. Nasku wiped the warm smile off his face and went to greet the men. They weren’t his favourite people in the world with their rather sour disposition but they had money and a good sense for business.
“I am surprised you wanted us to meet here instead of your office,” one of them said while the other looked around the hall with a mixture between interest and disgust.
“As you can see, I am busy, and do not have the time to go gallivanting around the city to accommodate other people’s preferences in meeting locations though I appreciate you taking the time out of your own busy schedules to come meet me here,” Nasku replied, laying on the charm, and indicated the two men should take a seat though they both preferred to remain standing. No doubt they feared they might end up with a speck of dust or two on their trousers.
The meeting went as well as he had expected and his mood wasn’t exactly in high spirits anymore when Nicolai sauntered in through the door. His mood however was instantly remedied by the sandwich the actor held up for him, Nasku’s stomach giving an answering growl which he ignored and hopefully covered enough with his voice. And then his eyes fell on Nicolai’s state of dress, or undress as it were, the gap between the jacket revealing ever so slightly glistening skin. Nasku’s speech halted for a heartbeat as his brain short-circuited and his muscles tightened. But he shook it off quickly and smoothly finished what he had to say while keeping his eyes on Nicolai until the man had moved out of his direct line of sight.
Fuck, he would have to be careful with that one.
The meeting took quite a while longer but when they finally parted ways, Nasku having laid on yet another layer of charm, he had gotten exactly what he wanted out of these two and leaving them with only a third of what they had initially wanted, whether they yet realised it or not.
Immediately, he went for the corner Nicolai had disappeared to and groaned “I’m absolutely starving” as soon as he was near and could grab the sandwich. He didn’t waste time unwrapping it and taking a bite, almost groaning in pleasure when the food hit his stomach. “I really need to stop forgetting to eat,” he mumbled around another bite. “Thank you very much, Nicolai. I very much appreciate it. And wow, ginger beer!” Nasku gladly accepted the bottle Nicolai handed him and then held it out to clink against the latter’s own bottle. “Not had that in years.” It wasn’t exactly a drink that appeared on the table in the Oslun mansion but Nasku from time to time enjoyed the drink in small quantities in weather such as this. “You’re a resourceful man, aren’t you?” he asked, glint in his eye, when he realised that the beer wasn’t overheated.
The sandwich and beer were devoured and as he was crumpling the parchment up in his hands, Nasku already moved back into the hall. “Come on! There’s work to be done!”
“That’s because you haven’t delivered what I asked you to,” Nasku replied in a calm tone, refusing to match the man’s already angry one.
And that was only the beginning of a lot of back and forth, which did end in a shouting match after all, which Nasku won. He was after all an Oslun and an Oslun was not easily refused. They were firmly upper class and any contractor worth his salt would not want to be bad-mouthed by someone like Nasku. So after a bit of shouting, they came to an agreement that appeased them both.
When the contractor went on his way, he had a satisfied smirk on his face while Nasku grinned at his back. It was a nuisance, this kind of haggling, but he had to admit that he did take some enjoyment from it. He scribbled a few hasty notes to be handed to two suppliers, which he sent on his way with the errand boy, who had just appeared with a note from his sister, along with a coin for a cool drink which the boy accepted with a delighted grin. Ruffling his hair, Nasku whispered: “Our secret, alright?”
As the boy dashed outside, he almost knocked into a couple of well-to-do businessmen who were just entering the theatre and gave him a disapproving look. Nasku wiped the warm smile off his face and went to greet the men. They weren’t his favourite people in the world with their rather sour disposition but they had money and a good sense for business.
“I am surprised you wanted us to meet here instead of your office,” one of them said while the other looked around the hall with a mixture between interest and disgust.
“As you can see, I am busy, and do not have the time to go gallivanting around the city to accommodate other people’s preferences in meeting locations though I appreciate you taking the time out of your own busy schedules to come meet me here,” Nasku replied, laying on the charm, and indicated the two men should take a seat though they both preferred to remain standing. No doubt they feared they might end up with a speck of dust or two on their trousers.
The meeting went as well as he had expected and his mood wasn’t exactly in high spirits anymore when Nicolai sauntered in through the door. His mood however was instantly remedied by the sandwich the actor held up for him, Nasku’s stomach giving an answering growl which he ignored and hopefully covered enough with his voice. And then his eyes fell on Nicolai’s state of dress, or undress as it were, the gap between the jacket revealing ever so slightly glistening skin. Nasku’s speech halted for a heartbeat as his brain short-circuited and his muscles tightened. But he shook it off quickly and smoothly finished what he had to say while keeping his eyes on Nicolai until the man had moved out of his direct line of sight.
Fuck, he would have to be careful with that one.
The meeting took quite a while longer but when they finally parted ways, Nasku having laid on yet another layer of charm, he had gotten exactly what he wanted out of these two and leaving them with only a third of what they had initially wanted, whether they yet realised it or not.
Immediately, he went for the corner Nicolai had disappeared to and groaned “I’m absolutely starving” as soon as he was near and could grab the sandwich. He didn’t waste time unwrapping it and taking a bite, almost groaning in pleasure when the food hit his stomach. “I really need to stop forgetting to eat,” he mumbled around another bite. “Thank you very much, Nicolai. I very much appreciate it. And wow, ginger beer!” Nasku gladly accepted the bottle Nicolai handed him and then held it out to clink against the latter’s own bottle. “Not had that in years.” It wasn’t exactly a drink that appeared on the table in the Oslun mansion but Nasku from time to time enjoyed the drink in small quantities in weather such as this. “You’re a resourceful man, aren’t you?” he asked, glint in his eye, when he realised that the beer wasn’t overheated.
The sandwich and beer were devoured and as he was crumpling the parchment up in his hands, Nasku already moved back into the hall. “Come on! There’s work to be done!”
Re: Boy Toys
Nicolai couldn't hide the amused look in his eyes as he looked up from the last page of the script and saw Nasku practically barreling towards him, or rather the food. Standing up he passed the sandwich over and then opened the bottle with a quick pop before handing it over. He was relieved that the beverage was appeasing to the higher class gentleman.
"You learn all sorts of tricks when you travel a lot." He responded with a bit of a smirk when his resourcefulness was commented on.
Nasku practically seemed to inhale his lunch and rushing back to work, Nic quickly drank the dregs of his bottle and grabbed his tools. Most of them were old but still in good condition, collected piece by piece as he needed needed them or afford them. He followed Nasku until they reached where the young man was working. Nic pulled out the bottle of wine that he had tucked inside to keep it safe in case any of the workers came by while he was waiting and accused him of drinking on the job or tried to take it.
"Here," He said as he offered the bottle. "Not sure if you needed something now after dealing with that group of pompous men or if you just want to save it as something to look forward to at the end of the day. It's nothing fancy but I've been told it's satisfactory. My treat, as thanks for the job and the opportunity on the stage. Hopefully this is the start of a long and successful relationship." With another one of his charming smiles Nicolai swung his tool bag over his shoulder and headed towards the stairs - that balustrade was not going to build itself.
---------------------------------------
Nicolai had never really don't this kind of work, most of his experience was a little more along the lines of set building and more practical construction. Thankfully a few of the other workers we willing to take some time and explain what they were doing and how to go about it and with a little bit of practice under their watchful eye he finally understood and figured out what he was going.
Unfortunately several hours later Nicolai found himself cornered by the foreman who had somehow escaped the firing earlier that morning.
"I don't see what the problem is with me working hard." He tried to say calmly and trying not to grind his teeth in frustration and annoyance.
"The problem is," the foreman all but spat "if you work too hard then you make the rest of us look bad. This may be your first time working in a big city like this but if you want to stick around you need to understand there are two options when working with me, and I manage a lot of the construction that goes on in this area. Either you do a good job but take your time or work fast but make a few subtle mistakes that you have to go back and fix. This way you get to stick around longer and get paid more. Or you charge them extra if they have a deadline to get done by. It's not to hard to comprehend fancy boy."
Nic ignored the 'fancy boy' comment, if only because there was no use explaining his life story to someone like this. "So you are saying that you are willing to jeopardize your business and the one that you are working for just for a few extra Bishan?"
"Those extra bishans add up, and that's just how good business is done." He nodded towards where Nasku had been sitting previously. His momentary disappearance is what had sparked this confrontation. "If the other pretty boy wants his theatre done on time and as perfectly as he's been demanding then he knows he is gunna have to pay up. Simple as that. Now back to work."
The two men exchanged glares, each daring the other to do or say something while the other workers pretended not to watch. Nic didn't know how many were on the foreman side and who was just following orders because thats' what do you when your boss tells you something or you lose your job.
Nic broke eye contact first which left the other man grinning triumphantly. He ground his teeth again as he turned his back and walked away - he wasn't willing to have a show down right here and now but he didn't like how this was being run. Sure the man could probably pound him into the pavement hard enough to leave a Nicolai sized dent in it but he was NOT going to be putting his future stage career at risk. For now he would make it look like he was complying to orders. He wasn't one to snitch but this job and the one following when the theatre opened were too important to him, and even more so to Nasku. Things would change.
"You learn all sorts of tricks when you travel a lot." He responded with a bit of a smirk when his resourcefulness was commented on.
Nasku practically seemed to inhale his lunch and rushing back to work, Nic quickly drank the dregs of his bottle and grabbed his tools. Most of them were old but still in good condition, collected piece by piece as he needed needed them or afford them. He followed Nasku until they reached where the young man was working. Nic pulled out the bottle of wine that he had tucked inside to keep it safe in case any of the workers came by while he was waiting and accused him of drinking on the job or tried to take it.
"Here," He said as he offered the bottle. "Not sure if you needed something now after dealing with that group of pompous men or if you just want to save it as something to look forward to at the end of the day. It's nothing fancy but I've been told it's satisfactory. My treat, as thanks for the job and the opportunity on the stage. Hopefully this is the start of a long and successful relationship." With another one of his charming smiles Nicolai swung his tool bag over his shoulder and headed towards the stairs - that balustrade was not going to build itself.
---------------------------------------
Nicolai had never really don't this kind of work, most of his experience was a little more along the lines of set building and more practical construction. Thankfully a few of the other workers we willing to take some time and explain what they were doing and how to go about it and with a little bit of practice under their watchful eye he finally understood and figured out what he was going.
Unfortunately several hours later Nicolai found himself cornered by the foreman who had somehow escaped the firing earlier that morning.
"I don't see what the problem is with me working hard." He tried to say calmly and trying not to grind his teeth in frustration and annoyance.
"The problem is," the foreman all but spat "if you work too hard then you make the rest of us look bad. This may be your first time working in a big city like this but if you want to stick around you need to understand there are two options when working with me, and I manage a lot of the construction that goes on in this area. Either you do a good job but take your time or work fast but make a few subtle mistakes that you have to go back and fix. This way you get to stick around longer and get paid more. Or you charge them extra if they have a deadline to get done by. It's not to hard to comprehend fancy boy."
Nic ignored the 'fancy boy' comment, if only because there was no use explaining his life story to someone like this. "So you are saying that you are willing to jeopardize your business and the one that you are working for just for a few extra Bishan?"
"Those extra bishans add up, and that's just how good business is done." He nodded towards where Nasku had been sitting previously. His momentary disappearance is what had sparked this confrontation. "If the other pretty boy wants his theatre done on time and as perfectly as he's been demanding then he knows he is gunna have to pay up. Simple as that. Now back to work."
The two men exchanged glares, each daring the other to do or say something while the other workers pretended not to watch. Nic didn't know how many were on the foreman side and who was just following orders because thats' what do you when your boss tells you something or you lose your job.
Nic broke eye contact first which left the other man grinning triumphantly. He ground his teeth again as he turned his back and walked away - he wasn't willing to have a show down right here and now but he didn't like how this was being run. Sure the man could probably pound him into the pavement hard enough to leave a Nicolai sized dent in it but he was NOT going to be putting his future stage career at risk. For now he would make it look like he was complying to orders. He wasn't one to snitch but this job and the one following when the theatre opened were too important to him, and even more so to Nasku. Things would change.
Re: Boy Toys
Nasku thanked Nicolai for the bottle by raising it briefly before they both went off in different directions for the various tasks they needed to accomplish. The bottle was deposited on Nasku’s work station for a later time before he settled behind yet another mound of paper. They seemed to appear whenever his back was turned and he so did not appreciate it, though he knew it needed to be done and it needed to be done properly.
First things first however.
Nasku wrote a series of detailed notes before hollering for one of the errand boys. Handing the boy the various notes along with strict instructions, the young one dashed off as soon as Nasku was certain his demands were understood.
“Excuse me? Master Oslun?”
Nasku stopped mid-scribble at the female voice and raised his head. A smile spread across his face when he recognised young Fayla who was apprenticed to Mistress Danisev, the seamstress he had contracted for the actors’ costumes. He immediately got up and brushed his lips across her knuckles.
“What a pleasure, Fayla! You are earlier than expected.”
The girl blushed fiercely under his smile and he tried to keep the responding grin off his face. “The mistress thought I should come inspect proceedings and make certain that you are ready for her to come by tomorrow. She has also tasked me with offering you a hand should you require it.”
“That is very generous of her,” Nasku responded with a bow of his head. “We are indeed ready for her to come tomorrow and the errand boy has just been sent off to gather the cloths that have been ordered. The actors will be here as of tomorrow morning.”
“Splendid! She will be most pleased to hear that you are on time. She does so hate for her schedule to be upended.” Fayla may have delivered this statement in a very matter of fact and sombre manner but Nasku couldn’t help laughing. “Yes, she is a force to be reckoned with if things do not go her way. She is treating you well though, I hope?”
Fayla’s blush intensified a little and she averted her eyes. “Yes, Master Oslun. I thank you for your concern.” Clearing her throat, she looked around. “Is there anything I could be of assistance with? Maybe you have a coat that needs stitching?”
“So eager,” Nasku murmured, letting his eyes drift over the young woman before calling himself back to order. He knew full well that she would succumb to his charms in a matter of seconds but he also knew that she was still very young in certain terms and he would not like to take advantage of her. It could quite possibly end in disaster.
“Pardon?”
Nasku winked at her before he could stop himself. “I do have a few of the old curtains that could use an expert’s eye. They have been washed but not yet hanged as I wanted to get Mistress Danisev’s opinion on them but as you are here now….” He didn’t need to finish the sentence, Fayla already nodding and her eyes lighting up eagerly. Hopefully, she would never lose that innocence.
“Certainly, Master Oslun. Just show me where they are.”
“If you’ll follow me,” he bowed his head again slightly and offered his arm to lead Fayla backstage, but the long way around so that he could have a quick look at the work being done out of his direct line of sight at the desk. And what do you know… Nasku narrowed his eyes as he seemed to have caught the tail-end of a not-very-friendly conversation between Nicolai and his foreman. The latter had a stupid and malicious grin on his face that was quickly wiped off when he spied Nasku looking at him. Nasku merely raised an eyebrow at him, paired with his “you do remember who is the boss here” look that made the man swallow some of his bravery before turning away and ignoring the pair.
Nasku didn’t understand what exactly the issue was with the man. They had started out on a good foot, work had been done fast and well, until.. Ah.. now he understood. Nasku had advanced the deadline and had started putting more pressure on the man.
“This way,” Nasku led Fayla into a large storage room, which would hopefully soon look a little better. “If you’ll just have a quick look at them. If you think they require your skills, I’ll have them moved to the staging area where there is a possibility for you to sit and work quietly, and most importantly more light.”
First things first however.
Nasku wrote a series of detailed notes before hollering for one of the errand boys. Handing the boy the various notes along with strict instructions, the young one dashed off as soon as Nasku was certain his demands were understood.
“Excuse me? Master Oslun?”
Nasku stopped mid-scribble at the female voice and raised his head. A smile spread across his face when he recognised young Fayla who was apprenticed to Mistress Danisev, the seamstress he had contracted for the actors’ costumes. He immediately got up and brushed his lips across her knuckles.
“What a pleasure, Fayla! You are earlier than expected.”
The girl blushed fiercely under his smile and he tried to keep the responding grin off his face. “The mistress thought I should come inspect proceedings and make certain that you are ready for her to come by tomorrow. She has also tasked me with offering you a hand should you require it.”
“That is very generous of her,” Nasku responded with a bow of his head. “We are indeed ready for her to come tomorrow and the errand boy has just been sent off to gather the cloths that have been ordered. The actors will be here as of tomorrow morning.”
“Splendid! She will be most pleased to hear that you are on time. She does so hate for her schedule to be upended.” Fayla may have delivered this statement in a very matter of fact and sombre manner but Nasku couldn’t help laughing. “Yes, she is a force to be reckoned with if things do not go her way. She is treating you well though, I hope?”
Fayla’s blush intensified a little and she averted her eyes. “Yes, Master Oslun. I thank you for your concern.” Clearing her throat, she looked around. “Is there anything I could be of assistance with? Maybe you have a coat that needs stitching?”
“So eager,” Nasku murmured, letting his eyes drift over the young woman before calling himself back to order. He knew full well that she would succumb to his charms in a matter of seconds but he also knew that she was still very young in certain terms and he would not like to take advantage of her. It could quite possibly end in disaster.
“Pardon?”
Nasku winked at her before he could stop himself. “I do have a few of the old curtains that could use an expert’s eye. They have been washed but not yet hanged as I wanted to get Mistress Danisev’s opinion on them but as you are here now….” He didn’t need to finish the sentence, Fayla already nodding and her eyes lighting up eagerly. Hopefully, she would never lose that innocence.
“Certainly, Master Oslun. Just show me where they are.”
“If you’ll follow me,” he bowed his head again slightly and offered his arm to lead Fayla backstage, but the long way around so that he could have a quick look at the work being done out of his direct line of sight at the desk. And what do you know… Nasku narrowed his eyes as he seemed to have caught the tail-end of a not-very-friendly conversation between Nicolai and his foreman. The latter had a stupid and malicious grin on his face that was quickly wiped off when he spied Nasku looking at him. Nasku merely raised an eyebrow at him, paired with his “you do remember who is the boss here” look that made the man swallow some of his bravery before turning away and ignoring the pair.
Nasku didn’t understand what exactly the issue was with the man. They had started out on a good foot, work had been done fast and well, until.. Ah.. now he understood. Nasku had advanced the deadline and had started putting more pressure on the man.
“This way,” Nasku led Fayla into a large storage room, which would hopefully soon look a little better. “If you’ll just have a quick look at them. If you think they require your skills, I’ll have them moved to the staging area where there is a possibility for you to sit and work quietly, and most importantly more light.”
Re: Boy Toys
Nicolai finished his work in silence much to the joy of the foreman. A few mistakes were made, and quickly rectified although not for the reasons he had been told. Rather his sheer frustration and anger at the position he was being put in caused Nicolai to err before he caught himself and fixed it. By the end of his shift he had calmed down visibly but was no closer to figuring out how to handle his moral predicament.
On the one hand, Nasku would certainly be thankful to be rid of a man who was holding up progress, especially while they were under the gun. Putting himself in his good graces was certainly vital to succeeding on the stage, at least any time in the future in Marn. Yet if he did tell...well everyone knew what happened to those who snitched and if this was how business was run was it really his place to interfere? Last thing Nic needed was to get beaten up in a back alley on opening night or any night for that matter. And being able to have a back up plan in the worse case scenario that the theatre didn't pan out, well...it was nothing to sneeze at. Although the idea of having to go back into construction or any kind of manual labour after this was not a future Nicolai wanted to think about, not when his dreams were within reach right now.
The end of the day couldn't come fast enough and while everyone else chatted and talked about plans to go out drinking or home to their families Nicolai fumed quietly, packing up and giving the foreman a wide berth. He headed back to the corner where his audition outfit and script were stashed along with his bottle from lunch. As he passed by the auditorium he caught the eye of the young woman slowly mending a large expanse of fabric, the stage curtains. Just as quickly as their eyes had locked, she tore them away, fixing her posture and did her best to seem like she was above making eyes at a "simple" handy man. A grin passed over his face and his shoulders relaxed a bit. Perhaps a bit of harmless fun before heading home was just what he needed to calm down.
His shirt from lunch was wrinkled but dry and more importantly clean looking and smelling. A quick change was all he needed and heading the back way to the stage he was able to sneak behind the girl working in the fading light. On his way he was able to find a candle and some matches, a perfect excuse.
"What are you doing?" He purred quietly, bending over so he was practically whispering in her ear.
She jumped for a moment, her cheeks flushed but just as quickly as it had appeared the hopeful sparkle in her eyes faded in disappointment. It was a reaction he rarely, if ever, recieved but he was discouraged. He straightened and grinned charmingly and he bowed in introduction.
"Pardon me, my lady. My name is Nicolai Svecha, I do a little bit of everything around here. I noticed the light was fading and thought you might need a bit more while you work?"
The young girl softened a bit, noticing the candle in his hand. "I am Fayla. Master Oslun asked me to look over the curtains and see what needed my help." When she mentioned Nasku's name Nicolai knew instantly why she wasn't butter in his palm like most young things. When she looked around hopefully for the missing 'master', her reaction made more sense. Nicolai decided to take a different approach to the lady. After all, encroaching on his boss' girl would not be welcomed. Not that he had really planned on doing anything exciting anyways. He had enough drama with the construction side of things to add in any kind of other work place drama. He had watched enough actors and actress deal with stalkers, pregnancy scares and emotional work place relationship break up to know where not to cross the line. This was probably one of them.
So instead Nicolai lite the candle and put it a safe distance away so it could give them a bit more light but not engulf the curtains in flame. Sitting on the ground beside Fayla's stool he looked over her work.
"Magnificent job" he said as he inspected the work in front of him. "No wonder Master Oslun wanted you to work on this. I doubt many, if any could do better."
"Thank you, although I think it turned into more work than either of us though it would be." As she spoke she showed him the hemline on the bottom of the curtain. while most of it was fine there were enough spots where it was starting to wear thin from dragging on the ground as the curtains were opened and closed for performances past. "Raising the hem a little won't do any harm aesthetically but it has to be done along the whole length or it will look all wrong."
"Well then I suppose we have our work cut out for us" Seeing her slightly shocked and questioning look he laughed lightly. "I used to make my own costumes and repair the other cast members clothes so I know my way around a need and thread. If you have a spare I can assist you and we can at least get most of it done before we completely lose all good light. I will abide by your example of course so feel free to correct me if I deviate from the new hemline." Nicolai was more than confident in his work but the young woman seemed to lighten and loosen up at his words and perhaps even enjoyed the idea of being in charge of someone. After a slight pause she passed him the thread and a needly and wordless they both began to work.
On the one hand, Nasku would certainly be thankful to be rid of a man who was holding up progress, especially while they were under the gun. Putting himself in his good graces was certainly vital to succeeding on the stage, at least any time in the future in Marn. Yet if he did tell...well everyone knew what happened to those who snitched and if this was how business was run was it really his place to interfere? Last thing Nic needed was to get beaten up in a back alley on opening night or any night for that matter. And being able to have a back up plan in the worse case scenario that the theatre didn't pan out, well...it was nothing to sneeze at. Although the idea of having to go back into construction or any kind of manual labour after this was not a future Nicolai wanted to think about, not when his dreams were within reach right now.
The end of the day couldn't come fast enough and while everyone else chatted and talked about plans to go out drinking or home to their families Nicolai fumed quietly, packing up and giving the foreman a wide berth. He headed back to the corner where his audition outfit and script were stashed along with his bottle from lunch. As he passed by the auditorium he caught the eye of the young woman slowly mending a large expanse of fabric, the stage curtains. Just as quickly as their eyes had locked, she tore them away, fixing her posture and did her best to seem like she was above making eyes at a "simple" handy man. A grin passed over his face and his shoulders relaxed a bit. Perhaps a bit of harmless fun before heading home was just what he needed to calm down.
His shirt from lunch was wrinkled but dry and more importantly clean looking and smelling. A quick change was all he needed and heading the back way to the stage he was able to sneak behind the girl working in the fading light. On his way he was able to find a candle and some matches, a perfect excuse.
"What are you doing?" He purred quietly, bending over so he was practically whispering in her ear.
She jumped for a moment, her cheeks flushed but just as quickly as it had appeared the hopeful sparkle in her eyes faded in disappointment. It was a reaction he rarely, if ever, recieved but he was discouraged. He straightened and grinned charmingly and he bowed in introduction.
"Pardon me, my lady. My name is Nicolai Svecha, I do a little bit of everything around here. I noticed the light was fading and thought you might need a bit more while you work?"
The young girl softened a bit, noticing the candle in his hand. "I am Fayla. Master Oslun asked me to look over the curtains and see what needed my help." When she mentioned Nasku's name Nicolai knew instantly why she wasn't butter in his palm like most young things. When she looked around hopefully for the missing 'master', her reaction made more sense. Nicolai decided to take a different approach to the lady. After all, encroaching on his boss' girl would not be welcomed. Not that he had really planned on doing anything exciting anyways. He had enough drama with the construction side of things to add in any kind of other work place drama. He had watched enough actors and actress deal with stalkers, pregnancy scares and emotional work place relationship break up to know where not to cross the line. This was probably one of them.
So instead Nicolai lite the candle and put it a safe distance away so it could give them a bit more light but not engulf the curtains in flame. Sitting on the ground beside Fayla's stool he looked over her work.
"Magnificent job" he said as he inspected the work in front of him. "No wonder Master Oslun wanted you to work on this. I doubt many, if any could do better."
"Thank you, although I think it turned into more work than either of us though it would be." As she spoke she showed him the hemline on the bottom of the curtain. while most of it was fine there were enough spots where it was starting to wear thin from dragging on the ground as the curtains were opened and closed for performances past. "Raising the hem a little won't do any harm aesthetically but it has to be done along the whole length or it will look all wrong."
"Well then I suppose we have our work cut out for us" Seeing her slightly shocked and questioning look he laughed lightly. "I used to make my own costumes and repair the other cast members clothes so I know my way around a need and thread. If you have a spare I can assist you and we can at least get most of it done before we completely lose all good light. I will abide by your example of course so feel free to correct me if I deviate from the new hemline." Nicolai was more than confident in his work but the young woman seemed to lighten and loosen up at his words and perhaps even enjoyed the idea of being in charge of someone. After a slight pause she passed him the thread and a needly and wordless they both began to work.
Re: Boy Toys
With Fayla settled with the curtains – the poor girl would have her work cut out for her – and several more errand boys sent out with instructions, Nasku settled back behind his work station to finally bring some actual order into the piles of paper. And he was making good progress, too! He was pleasantly surprised to look up from his task two hours later, when the first of the errand boys returned with a delivery, to see that everything was well ordered and most things were taken care of.
“Bring the delivery boy around to the back,” Nasku instructed before getting up to head there himself by way of the interior. Just as he was about to disappear, two more of his errand boys returned with more deliveries, much to Nasku’s satisfaction. Only one more boy to return.
Quickly grabbing one of the workers on break to give a hand to the drinks and food delivery boys, Nasku himself folded up the arms of his shirt and gave a hand to stow all the cloth bolts that had arrived. The work was tiring and in the heat… but they were done relatively fast and with a nod of thanks, Nasku sent the worker back to his break before signing delivery receipts for the youths and sending them off with a bottle of lemonade each.
Some probably would say that he was spoiling the boys but Nasku didn’t consider it spoiling. He thought of it as cultivating relationships. A boy who was rewarded for good work was more likely to keep working for him or more willing to do him a favour somewhere down the line. There was a reason why Nasku was as well connected as he was, even if he had been slacking a little on that front lately. The theatre had taken precedence.
In the meantime, daylight was starting to run out and not all the jobs he had wanted done that day were done. Time to go round up the foremen and light the fire under his butt again. For crying out loud, it really bugged him that things were no longer proceeding as well as they had before.
When he returned from having carefully inspected the various cloth bolts, Nasku arrived right in the middle of a heated conversation between the foreman and two of the new workers, both of whom did not look very pleased. The discussion obviously ended abruptly when Nasku appeared and they all dispersed in various directions. Some to finish up one last thing, others to go home.
Nasku kept his expression blank and strode into the main hall, feeling his previous contentment fade again. Upon stumbling over the tableau presenting itself in there, he stopped and shook his head at the two hunched over the curtains’ hem at the fading natural light and the feeble light of a candle.
“Fayla, Nicolai, please, stop ruining your eyes! We have a few days left to finish the curtains.”
He approached them slowly, assessing the couple as he did so. There was a slight blush colouring Fayla’s cheeks that seemed to have nothing to do with the fact that he had just walked in. Well, well. Nasku almost grinned.
“Fayla, I mean it,” he repeated when the girl didn’t want to relinquish needle and thread. “You need your good eyesight. Besides, isn’t Mistress Danisev waiting for you?” At that, the girl’s eyes widened slightly. It seemed as though she had been a little too absorbed in her work to remember that her mistress was waiting for a report.
“You can at the same time inform her that the cloths have all arrived. Unless I am mistaken of course. I am not the expert in this area. And you,” he turned to Nicolai, briefly resting a hand on the man’s shoulder. “You should get some rest.”
“Bring the delivery boy around to the back,” Nasku instructed before getting up to head there himself by way of the interior. Just as he was about to disappear, two more of his errand boys returned with more deliveries, much to Nasku’s satisfaction. Only one more boy to return.
Quickly grabbing one of the workers on break to give a hand to the drinks and food delivery boys, Nasku himself folded up the arms of his shirt and gave a hand to stow all the cloth bolts that had arrived. The work was tiring and in the heat… but they were done relatively fast and with a nod of thanks, Nasku sent the worker back to his break before signing delivery receipts for the youths and sending them off with a bottle of lemonade each.
Some probably would say that he was spoiling the boys but Nasku didn’t consider it spoiling. He thought of it as cultivating relationships. A boy who was rewarded for good work was more likely to keep working for him or more willing to do him a favour somewhere down the line. There was a reason why Nasku was as well connected as he was, even if he had been slacking a little on that front lately. The theatre had taken precedence.
In the meantime, daylight was starting to run out and not all the jobs he had wanted done that day were done. Time to go round up the foremen and light the fire under his butt again. For crying out loud, it really bugged him that things were no longer proceeding as well as they had before.
When he returned from having carefully inspected the various cloth bolts, Nasku arrived right in the middle of a heated conversation between the foreman and two of the new workers, both of whom did not look very pleased. The discussion obviously ended abruptly when Nasku appeared and they all dispersed in various directions. Some to finish up one last thing, others to go home.
Nasku kept his expression blank and strode into the main hall, feeling his previous contentment fade again. Upon stumbling over the tableau presenting itself in there, he stopped and shook his head at the two hunched over the curtains’ hem at the fading natural light and the feeble light of a candle.
“Fayla, Nicolai, please, stop ruining your eyes! We have a few days left to finish the curtains.”
He approached them slowly, assessing the couple as he did so. There was a slight blush colouring Fayla’s cheeks that seemed to have nothing to do with the fact that he had just walked in. Well, well. Nasku almost grinned.
“Fayla, I mean it,” he repeated when the girl didn’t want to relinquish needle and thread. “You need your good eyesight. Besides, isn’t Mistress Danisev waiting for you?” At that, the girl’s eyes widened slightly. It seemed as though she had been a little too absorbed in her work to remember that her mistress was waiting for a report.
“You can at the same time inform her that the cloths have all arrived. Unless I am mistaken of course. I am not the expert in this area. And you,” he turned to Nicolai, briefly resting a hand on the man’s shoulder. “You should get some rest.”
Re: Boy Toys
They worked mostly in silence, Nicolai not quite in the mood to make the girl talk unless she wanted to. But he felt her eyes occasionally watching him, the first few times simply to assess his work. Of course once she realized that he was as experienced as he claimed she seemed to be looking at him for a whole other reason. Occasionally he would look up from his work and flash her one of charming smiles that would send her blushing back into her work. Nicolai almost wanted to laugh at how innocently sweet she seemed.
Their needles flew in and out of the fabric. The task at hand was simple enough that precision and speed were something easily accomplished and they didn't notice the fading light until Nasku jolted them out of their focused state.
Nic tied off the thread and using his teeth snapped the needle and excess thread off before standing up and presenting the needle to Fayla, shoving the bit of thread into his pocket as he stood up.
"It was a pleasure to meet you and work along side you Fayla." He said as she packed up to leave.
Nasku hand on his shirt reminded him of its state. Tugging at it self consciously to try and straighten out the wrinkles he tried not to yawn. Blinking a few time he turned to Nasku and tried to smile, the predicament with the foreman coming to the front of his mind.
"What time would you like me in tomorrow? And..." He paused trying to think of a diplomatic way of moving forward. "is there any other work that you needed done around here? I am afraid that you may have over estimated my skill when it came to working with the balustrade." He pushed the shame down, and raised his chin and gave a sheepish grin. It was a lie of course, the work wasn't that complicated but if he didn't follow the foreman's sleazy plans he would either be out of a job or worse.... and if he told Nasku about the confrontation it wouldn't do much better. The most rational thing would be to separate himself from the crew and hopefully Nasku was smart enough to realize what trickery was going on under his nose.
Their needles flew in and out of the fabric. The task at hand was simple enough that precision and speed were something easily accomplished and they didn't notice the fading light until Nasku jolted them out of their focused state.
Nic tied off the thread and using his teeth snapped the needle and excess thread off before standing up and presenting the needle to Fayla, shoving the bit of thread into his pocket as he stood up.
"It was a pleasure to meet you and work along side you Fayla." He said as she packed up to leave.
Nasku hand on his shirt reminded him of its state. Tugging at it self consciously to try and straighten out the wrinkles he tried not to yawn. Blinking a few time he turned to Nasku and tried to smile, the predicament with the foreman coming to the front of his mind.
"What time would you like me in tomorrow? And..." He paused trying to think of a diplomatic way of moving forward. "is there any other work that you needed done around here? I am afraid that you may have over estimated my skill when it came to working with the balustrade." He pushed the shame down, and raised his chin and gave a sheepish grin. It was a lie of course, the work wasn't that complicated but if he didn't follow the foreman's sleazy plans he would either be out of a job or worse.... and if he told Nasku about the confrontation it wouldn't do much better. The most rational thing would be to separate himself from the crew and hopefully Nasku was smart enough to realize what trickery was going on under his nose.
Re: Boy Toys
“Just be here for 8 like the other actors. I’d prefer you to be fresh for rehearsals. Feel free to come in a little early if you want a quiet spot to go over the play but no work before your real work starts.” Nasku winked at him. There was going to be enough to do as it was on the next day what with actors needing to get into their parts and the seamstress taking their measurements.
As he walked away, he called back over his shoulder: “Oh, and you’ll be staying with the same group of men for the balustrade after rehearsal. I’m certain you didn’t overestimate your skill.” And he hadn’t. Nasku may be a noble man but he had a relatively good eye and Nicolai’s work was detailed and as impeccable as was possible for someone who was not an expert. What he lacked for in skill, he made up for in determination and willingness to learn.
No, the problem was a different one. Nasku was going to remedy that one. Soon. He was the one holding the money after all. And there were enough other workers in the city who would gladly take on a job such as this one.
What he did not like however was the way the workmen were looking when he was out of the theatre hall and in the middle of what was going to be the entrance hall and intermission space. Those were not the faces of happy men and while none of them said anything, furtive glances towards the foreman told Nasku enough. Inwardly, he sighed. Outwardly, he kept his expression blank and acted as though he had no idea what was going on. At least these men weren’t sleeping on the job. Not yet anyway.
The other crew was just in the middle of finishing the wall where tomorrow they were going to put up the bar area. “Excellent!” Nasku called out to them as he inspected the decorations they had put in painstaking detail around the ceiling and floor. It was a shame the bottom line was going to be partially covered by the woodwork of the bar but it looked great. They beamed. “With this heat, it should all dry as it should overnight. Latest tomorrow afternoon, we should be able to put all the furniture in as you have planned.”
“Almost on schedule,” Nasku mused.
He finished up his rounds and was mostly happy with the day’s outcome. He would have to hire one or two more men though. Maybe. Or maybe there was another way to get things back on schedule. One more thing to mull over.
For now though, tomorrow was another day.
As he walked away, he called back over his shoulder: “Oh, and you’ll be staying with the same group of men for the balustrade after rehearsal. I’m certain you didn’t overestimate your skill.” And he hadn’t. Nasku may be a noble man but he had a relatively good eye and Nicolai’s work was detailed and as impeccable as was possible for someone who was not an expert. What he lacked for in skill, he made up for in determination and willingness to learn.
No, the problem was a different one. Nasku was going to remedy that one. Soon. He was the one holding the money after all. And there were enough other workers in the city who would gladly take on a job such as this one.
What he did not like however was the way the workmen were looking when he was out of the theatre hall and in the middle of what was going to be the entrance hall and intermission space. Those were not the faces of happy men and while none of them said anything, furtive glances towards the foreman told Nasku enough. Inwardly, he sighed. Outwardly, he kept his expression blank and acted as though he had no idea what was going on. At least these men weren’t sleeping on the job. Not yet anyway.
The other crew was just in the middle of finishing the wall where tomorrow they were going to put up the bar area. “Excellent!” Nasku called out to them as he inspected the decorations they had put in painstaking detail around the ceiling and floor. It was a shame the bottom line was going to be partially covered by the woodwork of the bar but it looked great. They beamed. “With this heat, it should all dry as it should overnight. Latest tomorrow afternoon, we should be able to put all the furniture in as you have planned.”
“Almost on schedule,” Nasku mused.
He finished up his rounds and was mostly happy with the day’s outcome. He would have to hire one or two more men though. Maybe. Or maybe there was another way to get things back on schedule. One more thing to mull over.
For now though, tomorrow was another day.