Whiskey in the Jar }{ Vanille

[cid raines]

The dark had fallen already, covering the sky and announcing the end of a day. But it wasn't an end for anything. Especially for a certain man wandering in Academia. It had been only two days since he woke up. It felt like he had been sleeping for the longest time, so slumber didn't attract him much. He could safely say he didn't even take a nap since two days. Perhaps, his body was going to need it sooner or later, but his mind told him no.

He didn't seem to age since the time he died. It was more like continuing his life from where he was dropped. But only without the rank and position. Without his crew. He didn't have friends. The ones he had could never be trusting him again.

But who knew?

Things always changed for better or worse. Sometimes the direction could be leaded, if the manipulator knew what he was doing.

This bar looked like a decent place. It wasn't shady. It actually was tidy and clean. The scent of food was nice, too. While it wasn't exactly his habit to do bar hopping, Raines could use a drink or two.

He walked in, heading for the bar counter instead of taking any private tables. He was alone in the end, he could sit alone and drink, have some thinking until he had enough.

The bar was half crowded. People were enjoying themselves with the effect of alcohol and good food. Some were laughing, a few were obviously drinking their sorrows away.

Once Raines reached the bar counter, he took a stool and sat on it in a graceful posture. Even when the bar stool was quite high, his long legs were able to reach the floor. His long cape ran down over his shoulders and covered the stool he was sitting on. Leaning over the counter, Raines placed an elbow against it and rested his chin in his palm.

"Whiskey. One ice cube." He requested from the bartender, who gave a nod. Then with a smooth move, he placed a glass before Raines, filling it with the amber liquid from a black bottle with a famous brand. Ice was already inside the glass, now being surrounded by the sharp drink.

"Thank you." A small charming smile was offered at the bartender before he returned his job. It was a reflex how the raven haired ex-Commander started to peel his glove off. But the moment his gaze caught a glimpse of his l'Cie tattoo, Raines paused and pulled the glove back in place. There was no need to announce such a thing here and now. All he wanted was a drink in the end. He took the other glove off and wrapped his hand around the cool glass. His fingers were long and yet gentle. His first sip was refreshing. He swallowed and allowed the burning feeling in his throat. It had been a long time since last he took alcohol.

Placing the glass on the counter, Raines fixed his ice blue eyes on the amber coloured liquid. Then he was watching the reflections of the others by the mirror ahead.