Alinedra
(reoganizing this so it's not so bad.... but i thought i'd get the RP in here first)
wed. april 12.
*Czerniana notices a bunch of other janitors sitting at one end of the hallway.
"How many Janitors are they hiring?" she curses under her breath. "I'll just have to deal with it it seems"
Finding a broom closet, she grabs one of the janitor carts, throws some cleaners onto it, being sure to grab her favourite Orange cleaner, (she loves the citrus smell) and trucks off to the nearest elevator.
"Maybe they havn't started on the other floors yet" So finding a utility elevator, she gets on and pushes the 3 floor button.
"lets hope...."
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Getting to the third floor, the only light were the dull security lights located every 30 or so feet.
" Wonder if i'm supposed to be here..... " Stepping out of the elevator and throwing her hair in a ponytail, she could see numerous sneaker streaks and piles of dust in the corners.
" Heh, looks like i am." Finding a light switch, She flipped it on and started to get to work. Grabbing the googone, she then attacked the sneaker streaks with a vengance.
"Hope someone comes to help. There are so many!"
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Alinedra looked up as the elevator dinged and a male exited.
"About time" She thought. Squirting a quite disgusting pile of gum and dirt smeared across the floor, she turned to him and smiled.
" Hello there. I was wondering when i'd see another janitor around, there seemed to be so many down on the first floor, i wondered if i was even supposed to be up here."
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Wed. April 13.
Gazing up at Kyo, Ali moves a stray piece of hair out of her face and extended her hand. Looking down at it though, she blushed at the obvious work hands, missing that feminine softness that she wished she could have.
" I'm Alinedra, or Ali for short" She smiled a sweet smile up at him. She couldn't help but be fascinated with his carefree attitude, it being so foreign to herself.
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Ali thought to herself, remembering a happier time, playing in the meadows and forests, tending to plants that she found to be particularly wonderful.
" When i was a child, my family owned many acres of land. My days used to be spent romping through the hills and woods, playing with the only thing around. Plants." Ali blushed, emberassed that she was sharing such a private detail. " I've always felt the need to take care of something. This opportunity came along after a long rut of nothing.... So you see, i had to take the job."
Now the colour of bright red, she turned away and scrubbed furiously on a spot for a moment, but then paused slowly and chuckled softly to herself. Looking up at Kyo's quizical expression, she continued.
" I havn't really told anyone that before.... the need to take care of something that is." She grinned. " It must be these darn chemicals! hehe"
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Frid. April 14
Ali's head fell toward the floor, and she let out a deep painful sigh.
"My parents died in a car accident. I grew up with my aunt and uncle. They were very nice people, don't get me wrong! But things were just never the same..." Her voice trailed off, as visions of the day the police came to the school, tore her from her classroom, and told her the horrible news.
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Ali let out one more sigh and looked up.
"What am i talking about all this sad stuff for?! I'm fine now. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and that's just what i am. No sob stories for me, no sir. " As if rehersed, Alinedra looked down, with a strained smile on her face and started to clean again. Why was she blabbering about all of this to this man she hardly knew?! He's surely to think her strange now, but she just felt she couldn't lie to him. Or rather that she shouldn't...
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Alinedra let out a hearfelt laugh and allowed herself to be dragged away from the work she had not even thought about all morning.
" But.... where are we going?" She laughed, as Kyo led her through hallway after hallway. He wore a boyish green, but she could tell there was a lifetime of knowledge under it. Could she be like this? Could she be carefree as this man was? Perhaps she'd have to learn. Or learn more of him.
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Sat. April 15.
Alinedra followed Kyo into the elevator, blushing slightly as she brushed up against him.
"No, i didn't bring anything. I had planned on just grabbing a snack or two out of a vending machine. Which i'm sure are SOMEWHERE in this place. Probably wasn't the smartest idea i've ever had though." As if in response, her stomach let out a low grumble, and her face turned flush red.
" Hehe.....definately not the smartest"
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Ali followed Kyo very closely out of the elevator. This may be her new work building, but she still wasn't sure where she was, and it made her a bit nervous.
Noticing the shadow, Ali barely had time to register what Kyo was doing. Giggling, she ran after Kyo as he took off after tapping on the window.
" You are going to get us into trouble! Hehehe." Running down the hall she took the lead and jogged lightly inspecting doors as she went by. And that's when she saw it. Skidding to a halt and looking down an adjacent (They need spellcheck on gaia -_- ) hallway, shrouded in it's own light was a row of vending machines, complete with little microwave area and tables.
Casually tossing her hair out of her face and looking back she winked at Kyo.
" Guess it's snickers and stale pretzels for me after all!" And grinning she started toward the vending machines.
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Giggling at Kyo's complete satisfaction with his sandwich, Alinedra turned to the vending machines to inspect the possobilities.
" Snickers..... Peanuts.... Potatoe chips..... Oooohhh!! Funyans!" Depositing the exact change, she pulled out a bag of funyans and huggled it. " I havn't had these for years!" Pulling out more change, she got herself a Dr. Pepper and a Three Muskateers bar.
" It's the lunch of champions, i swear" she said, sitting down at the same table Kyo was at. She looked down at her lunch and laughed out loud. " I think i should probably pack a lunch from now on, I doubt this will get me very far health wise."
Popping the funyans open, she began to munch away happily.
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Alinedra looked up from her muskateers bar.
" Well, I smell lemoney fresh" Ali laughed comfortably. "Other than that, i'm just glad that i met someone that i can get along with my first day. I've had many jobs where no one wants to talk to me. It gets sort of lonely." Ali blushed and looked back down, shoving a funyon in her mouth.
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Alinedra laughed. " I've so many worries, i don't know where to begin sometimes. The curse of caring about things i'm afraid." Ali looked down and continued. " I have little heartbreaks every day because i care so much about things. My father used to say to me ' Ali, you're going to have to learn to hide your heart, or one day, you'll find it's broken to so many pieces you can't find them'....... Of course, i never could learn to. Only slightly. I could never just care for myself, no matter how lonely i might be. I somehow find something." Ali took a swig of her Dr. Pepper and sat back in her chair, gazing off into space daydreaming.
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After a moment of silence she laughed out loud. " Here i am being down again! Kyo, you picked the wrong floor when you picked mine. I'll do nothing but ruin your good moods!" She smiled and looked down at her empty bag of funyon's, wondering if the crumbs were worth emberassing herself to get.
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Alinedra leaned forward, proping her head up with her hand, elbow to the table, smiling. " So, I take it you don't have a girlfriend then, if you're THAT happy with life." Ali grinned that wickedly female grin right at that second.
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" I figured as much." Alinedra commented back. She leaned back in her chair and crossed her arms, smiling.
" I know your kind. You have a trail of girls hearts following you wherever you go, no matter how much you tell them no. " Alinedra laughed, "Yes, i know your kind well."
Alinedra dug in her pocket and counted the remainder of her change. Glancing over, she discovered a rice krispy treat on the bottom shelf, just enough for her budget. Getting up laughing, she deposited the change, got the food, and sat back down.
" It's not to say it's a bad thing. I've just got to ignore your cute charm as much as possible." Winking, then letting out a chuckle, she munched on her treat.
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Alinedra laughed, noticing his quick change of subject.
" Alright alright, i can take a hint." Chugging the last of her Dr. Pepper, and throwing away her trash, Alinedra did a whole body stretch, reaching to the ceiling. She then pulled her hair down, brushed it back up with her hand, and remade her ponytail.
" Oi. I really need to get this hair cut! It's in my face all the time. " Ali thought about it for a moment, then shook her head. Her mother always loved her long red hair. The day she cut it herself with a pair of scissors was the first time she had seen her mother cry. Of course, it could be because it was a whole three inches on one side, and six on the other, but oh well.
" Oh who am i kidding. I love my long hair." Turning to Kyo, who was still chugging water, she smiled.
" Now, oh fearless leader, you have to get us back to our cleaning supplies"
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Mon. April 17.
Giggling, Alinedra followed him the whole way. She hadn't had so much fun in years, which was probably the saddest part of the whole time. When was the last time she had smiled so much? She couldn't remember.
" It's time i changed." She thought to herself. Or else she'd be a sad lonely old maid, with a hundered cats, and not a smile in her life.
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Alinedra huffed her way to the elevator right as she heard the announcement over the main speakers. Standing in the doorway to listen, peering up at the ceiling as if it spoke herself, she could hardly believe it when she heard Kyo and her own name over the announcements.
Gasping, she turned to kyo and hugged him, pushing herself and him into the elevator so that the doors closed behind them.
" Did you hear that?! We've been promoted!! No more scrubbing floors! (atleast hallway floors)" Ali danced around the elevator, still sitting still waiting for someone's command to change floors.
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Following Kyo out of the elevator, still flushed from the dancing inside, she began to gather up her cleaning supplies and put them away.
" I don't recall seeing greenhouses. Though i know they're somewhere around here. Perhaps around back? I sort of didn't pay attention when i got out of the cab." Ali looked down at her mop. Trusty mop. Alinedra had had her own gardens in her time, but was she really ready to have this responsobility? Brushing aside some loose strands of hair, she looked out a nearby window. Or course she was ready, they wouldn't let her do it if she wasn't. And of course there's bound to be someone out there to tell her what to do. Janitor jobs are fairly simple. Attending to a greenhouse would require some sort of watchful eye at some point.
" it's going to be late by the time we get this stuff put away and find the greenhouses. We'll probably just have a little tour and be on our way home for the day." Alinedra said, turning to Kyo. She did a little stretch and felt her back crack. Wincing, she rubbed the base of her back.
" And a good thing too, I'm so out of shape, this floor cleaning has killed my back! " Ali laughed and fixed the pony tail that was again falling out of place. ' I could be a champion pony tail maker ' She thought to herself, smiling.
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Tue. April 18
Waving goodbye to Kyo, Alinedra finished putting her supplies away and looked down at her hands. Far from the gentle feminine things they should be, she shook her head in disapproval.
My Aunt would kill me if she saw the state of these nails. She thought to herself.
Taking one last look at the hallway to make sure she had everything, she made for the elevator. Pushing the down button, she began to hum to herself as she heard the whir of the chords behind the shiny silver door. With a ding, the doors flew open, and Ali positioned the cart inside and pushed the one button.
Kyo was a very strange man. Nice, but strange. She thought to herself. I could never be that carefree. Not a worry in the world! That'd be the day. I think i even worry in my sleep. Ali grinned at herself. Pathetic to the end, as an old maid with a million cats.
Exiting the elevator, she put her cart away and pulled out a small pink razor phone. Flipping it open, the picture of a green meadow appeared before she ran through the phone book, calling the taxi service she used.
" Yes, that's right, i'm ready to be picked up now" She replied to the man that had answered on the other end. Ready to go home, for a full day of adventure tomorrow.
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Alinedra unlocked the front door of her apartement and stepped into familiar darkness. Stepping in she flipped the light on and sat her keys down on the small table by the door. Flipping through the mail she had retrieved from her downstairs mailbox she sighed. Bills bills and more bills. When did i get this poor?
A faint Meow broke the silence, and a small orange and brown calico cat came skidding across the hardwood toward Ali's leg.
" Well atleast i have you Kitkat. " She mused, bending over to pick up the darling feline that was her only companion. Kitkat purred in her ear and licked her cheek lovingly.
" Yuuuuck, cat tongue. " Ali laughed, carrying kit to the kitchen to inspect her food and water bowls. "Hungry today i see. " Putting Kitkat down she grabbed the bag of Meow Mix and emptied its contents into a small silver bowl. "Guess i have to go to the store tomorrow. Or you'll kill me with your whining." Ali laughed, got some chips out of the cupboard and started to munch away while doing some random cleaning around the apartement.
" Come on kitkat, it's time for bed. " She called, after an hour of straightening and eating. She was so very tired, and her back was begging for her to lay down on her wonderfully padded down matress. Reaching in her drawers, she found her favourite pajamas. She'd had the gown since she was probably nine, but she still could wear it, though granted it was a bit shorter. It had blue short sleeves, and came down to about her mid thigh now. The front had a picture of Charlie Brown and Snoopy, under an umbrella in the jungle, and it said "save the rainforests" underneith. Sort of fitting after my promotion today Ali chuckled to herself. Throwing on the gown and turning the lights off she snuggled into bed, Kitkat already having taken her position on the pillow next to hers, beginning to snooze away happily. " Night darling..." She said. She didn't have much time to think about her day though, as she was soon dreaming peacefully, resting before another day of adventure....
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Thur. April 20
Alinedra ran from the end of the long driveway that came up to the vale. The taxi driver had given her a load of crap about " being on private property " and had refused to drop her off in front of the building.
Crap, i'm so late! I'm going to kill that driver. He had to take the longest way here! She thought, puffing her way down the drive.
Looking ahead, she could see Kyo waiting for her. Smiling, she ran faster and came to a skidding halt infront of him.
" I'm so sorry! This taxi driver was just... and he wouldn't.... and..so i'm... late" Ali managed to say through catching her breath. Looking up, she cough his eyes and smiled.
" Lets find those... greenhouses..."
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Alinedra cocked her head to the side while listening to him. He was definately different. Men.... She said in here head, giving it a little shake from side to side.
" Well, we can make our way there, perhaps there is someone waiting for us, or a note. " Not waiting for a reply, Ali began to take a path that lead around to the back of the facility. Made of stepping stones, she couldn't help but give a little hop from one stone to the next. Taking a deep breath, she could smell the abundant budding flowers and freshly manicured grass. A few hours ago would have been my favourite time, all covered in dew, with a slight mist everywhere.... Lost in daydream, she didn't even turn around to see if Kyo was following.
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Looking around, Alinedra spotted a bench under a tree about a football field away.
" Well, it looks like SOMEONE is allowed out there. I dont' see why we couldn't! I'm sure the grass is alright to walk on. We'll ask someone if we see them. I'd hate to go walking around and get into trouble after we just got promoted. "
Getting around to the back of the building, there were many large greenhouses. Going to the one labeled "greenhouse 1" She jiggled the handle. Amazingly, it opened. Turning back to Kyo, she gave a shrug and walked in.
The humidity was killer, but she was alright with it. Her Aunt had had a small greenhouse growing up, and Ali had spent many hours in there tending to her own little corner of herbs and various odd flowers she enjoyed. The first little room looked like a storage area of tools. All arranged as precisely as dirt covered instruments could be, it was obvious there was a lot of TLC involved in these greenhouses.
A note was posted on the door that Alinedra assumed went into the main greenhouse area. It read...
Welcome Alinedra and Kyocho. I'm sorry i couldn't be down here to show you around, but the greenhouses are pretty self explanetory and labeled very well. Your job today will be to simply plant the selected seeds each in their individual own plant, fertilize them, water them a bit, and place them in their designated labeled spot. When that is through, I'll need you to spritz the rest of the plants. Each greenhouse has a different species that needs potted, so you should be alright for the next little while. Become aquainted with the area, and please, put the tools back where you found them, it's a little pet peeve of mine.
Yours,
The Greenhouse Keeper
Taking the note down, she handed it to Kyo to read. Opening the door, she was blasted with more warmth, and the beginning of the day.
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Ali turned to Kyo, " We'll do fine. I've planted seeds all my life. Hehe, I was sort of my Aunt's little garden slave. "
Turning back, the greenhouse had one large table running through the middle of it, with plants stationed in the center, but with enough room to work. Against the wall on one side was a work table, Empty pots lining the length of the greenhouse, stacked about seven high. Toward the middle was what looked like a medic's IV tray, but instead of needles and gauze, it was filled with what looked like neatly labeled paper bags, with what Alinedra could only assume were seeds inside. Underneath the tables were bags and bags of potting soil, and a few rather larger potting plants. On the other wall were more plants, filling the long table so much there seemed no extra room.
(( Yeah, i'm out of it. Imagine a normal greenhouse, and if you don't know what that looks like, imagine the one in Harry Potter. lol ))
Turning to Kyo, Alinedra smiled. " Have you done massive potting before? "
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Ali strolled around, looking for all the supplies she would need. At the end of the greenhouse, attached to a wall was a big roll of plastic. Good, now for the trays... Looking around, she found the flats she was looking for. Connected together, it looked like twenty or so tiny plastic trays, these were equipped with nifty carrying handles and a flat sturdy bottom. There was a whole stack of these trays in the back of the greenhouse under the table.
" See Kyo, we have to fill this with dirt and fertilizer, moisten it, and plant the seeds, then cover it in plastic. Easy as that. Depending on the seed size we either push it into the dirt a half inch, or some barely covered with dirt. Once they have sprouted, we uncover them, let them grow a little more, and then put them in their own pots. Easy peasy. " Alinedra grinned at herself, greatful she knew something for once.
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Alinedra purred at Kyo " I wouldn't start a fight you won't win", and she turned around and started for the seeds.
Looking in the tray, she found many different labels, already made out for when they're finished with a species. Flipping through the packets of seeds, some of the labels were flowers, some were veggies. She recogniazed none of them.
" Lets see, do we want to start with....Dakota Gold Helenium, Echinacea Sunrise, or Verbascum Rosetta?" She giggled, grabbing the Gold Helenium.
"These names crack me up. But i guess everything can't just be a 'sunflower' or 'daisy'...wonder what these will look like grown. The Echinacea sunrises sounded interesting."
Bringing the bag of seeds over to Kyo, she waited while he battled with the soil bag.
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Alinedra laughed and began to help what was basically playing in the dirt. It had been years since she had felt the cool ground between her fingers, or sat in the warmth of a greenhouse. Her body by now was covered with a thin layer of moisture, smelling of fresh dirt. She loved that smell and breathed in deeply. After a little while her eyes begain to feel heavy, and her breathing slowed dramatically.
" Kyo, i'm going to get a soda, you want one? If i dont' get some sort of energy in me, i'm going to absolutely curl up and fall asleep in here." Ali dug into her pocket and pulled out two dollars.
" On me. What kind do you want? "
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Giggling her way through the door, not used to having it held, Alinedra made for the back of the building. The fresh air was like a wake up call, and she could feel her energy returning to her. She still had the urge to lie down in the grass and take a nap though, so the caffiene still sounded like a good idea.
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Fri. April 21.
" You bet it is Kyo. " Ali yelled behind her. Getting to the door first, she sat there and held it open as Kyocho approached. With a wicked grin she said, "Women and kyocho's first."
At that moment a breeze threw a strand of hair in her eye, and Ali took up the familiar position of fixing her hair back in her pony tail, while propping the door open with her foot, waiting for Kyo to go through.
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Sat. April 22.
Ali giggled as Kyo went by, almost uncontrollably. Walking in slightly, she felt the door slam her in the rear and she let out a yelp, which echoed in the hallway. She turned bright red still giggling.
"Heheh, whoops." She said through the laughing, and prepared to follow Kyo.
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Alinedra started to recogniaze the hallway and knew they were getting close. Laughing to herself as she watched Kyo stalk his prey, she hung back a bit humming to herself a tune she had watched on a movie the night before. One thing she had always been good at was singing, and she hummed every note on key.
Seeing Kyo take a turn she knew they had made it to the vending machines. Taking her fine time she made it down the hallway and handed Kyo a dollar from her pocket. " There ya go! " And she deposited her dollar into the machine and pressed the button for a nice cool coke.
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Sun. April 23.
Watching Kyo drink from the waterfountain she chuckled and took a long chug on her soda. The coke was exactly what she wanted. Twisting the cap back on, she waited for Kyo to finish his drink.
" You know, if you got a water bottle you could take it outside and keep refilling it all day. It'd make more sense." Ali smiled, knowing Kyo would more than likely shrug and grin with some excuse of enjoying the walk in here or adventure of finding the place. It was perfectly fine with her though, she had mentioned it more out of principal than anything else.
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Mon. April 24.
Alinedra chuckled and shook her head.
" Come on silly, let's get back out to those greenhouses, we've got a lot of work to do before lunch! " And turning on her heal she started to walk back the way they came, pony tail bobbing the whole way.
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Mon. May 01.
Alinedra stumbles her way back from the bathroom to the greenhouses. Her head was pounding, and her stomach did nothing but turn itself into knots.
Ugh.... maybe the soda? or lack of breakfast perhaps... She thought, musing over the possible causes of her sudden illness. Maybe she would just take the rest of the day off.... or nap in the greenhouse and see if that helped. She'd run it by Kyo... if she could find him.
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Thu. May 04.
Ali stumbled to the front where the cab was waiting for her. Whatever this virus was, it had worked on her quickly, and she could barely walk straight as she concentrated on not tripping on the stepping stones. Hard to believe she had skipped down these earlier in the morning. Hopefully some warm tea and sleep would get rid of whatever it was that she had.
Hopping in the cab, the driver took off a little too fast, and Ali could feel the migrane starting from the base of her head. Ever jerk of the cab made it pound painfully, sending ringing to her ears.
Getting home, she threw the cabbie some cash and climbed the flights of stairs to her apartement. Throwing her keys down, feeding the cat, and throwing the kettle on, she barely noticed how the rest of the evening went. She knows she drank tea at one point, but the next thing she knew she was in bed with the covers up to her nose, collapsed. Setting the alarm, Ali rolled over and waited for the morning. Hopefully she would feel better than she felt at current.
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Ali woke up with the sound of an alarm in her ear. Slapping it off, she sat up and yawned. Kitkat already on the bed nuzzling against her, she could hardly believe how rejuvinated she felt. The bug must have worked it's way through her system. She hopped out of bed, and started to get ready for the morning.
After her shower, breakfast, and quick clean up, she was on her way out the door to the cab below. As he drove through the country to the facility, she hoped there would be a light load today incase she got ill again. Paying the driver after being let off the door, she made her way to the boiler room, put on her work clothes, and made toward the back to the greenhouses. Ali smiled as she skipped across the stones the way she had the morning before. Today will be a good day, she could tell. She had packed her lunch, the sun was shining, a slight breeze was in the air, she definately thought it would be a good day.
Walking into the greenhouse, she spied Kyo already at work. Being as stealthy as she could she made her way around behind him, ready to scare the bajeezus out of him....
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Ali positioned herself right behind Kyo and pounced.
"BOO!!!" she screamed, poking him in the sides, and then collapsing in a fit of giggles.
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Sun. May 07.
Ali got over giggling at Kyocho and started to hum as she helped him pot, repot, change pots, and generally do the days work. Every once in a while she'd throw a clump of dirt at Kyo, only to get a glare, a grin, and a bigger clump thrown back at her. She had noticed another girl coming in the Greenhouse and grabbing supplies. Obvious earphones were in though, and the feint sound of music could be heard even all the way across the warm interior of the garden house. Not wanting to disturb the rhythm she was in, she didn't bother to call out to her and get her attention. Ali just shrugged, assuming she'd get a chance to introduce herself at a later time.
After another hour of so of work, she glanced down at her watch, and just as she did her stomach rumbled. Turning to Kyo, she threw another clump, and laughed.
" Want to take our lunch break now? we've been working all morning..."
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Mon. May 8.
Laughing at Kyo's attempt at a revengeful glare, she nodded. "we have sort of made a mess with all of this dirt huh? You should be more careful. " She grinned, and hid behind a particularly bushy plant to block any flying dirt clumps that might be coming her way. Turning around, Alinedra noticed the girl she had seen before coming this way. Watching her come up and chat for a second with Kyo, she decided it was time for introductions. Ali, noticing the less than friendly, but not full of hatred smile, offered her hand. " Hi, we havn't met yet. I'm Alinedra. " And putting on her most dashing pretty girl smile, waited for petra to take her hand.
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Tue. May 9.
Ali shook petra's hand firmly. She turned to Kyo, " I hope he didn't say anything TOO awfule." and she winked toward him in a playful way. Looking around, she guessed what it might look like to an outsider and laughed. "Yes, we erm... well, it was more just a little squabble. The real war hasn't started yet. Kyo's too scared he'll lose to a girl. " And Ali laughed, threw one more little dirt clump she had hiding in her hand at Kyo and took off for the doors at full speed.
" LAST ONE TO THE VENDING MACHINES GETS TO SWEEP!" She called back, laughing all the way.
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Thur. May 11.
Alinedra ran full speed all the way to the door of the building and looked back to see if anyone was following.
Disappointed that no one was she frowned toward the greenhouses and pulled open the door swiftly, setting off down the hall toward the machines. Her sneakers squeaked as she walked, and she noted the floors were still pretty dirty. Perhaps the new janitor's weren't doing their job? It was more probable that the building was just too large.
Finding the alcove with the tables and machines she opened the fridge and pulled out her packed lunch. Placing it on the table she took some change out of her pocket and deposited it into the soda machine, getting a cold cherry soda. Popping the cap, she took a seat and sat back, stretching her tanned arms over her head.
I need to get out in the sun a little more. This tan is starting to fade. She thought. It was the first one she had had in hears. Before this, she had worked as a lawn mower. It had left her skin a wonderful shade of brown that fit her strawberry blonde hair very well.
Pulling out her peanut butter and jelly sandwich, she began to munch on it waiting for Kyocho to join her.
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Tue. May 16.
Ali sat eating her lunch to herself. It seemed Kyo was going to take his fine old time with this other girl. That was fine, she would go explore on her lunch hour. She didn't get to see much of the Vale while she was a janitor, having only been one for a day, so she would take now to get to know the facility.
Her only problem is, she was afraid she'd get lost. She didn't want to get late getting back to the greenhouses just for some thrill seeking. Perhaps she would go to the front desk and get a map, or perhaps even a tour.
During all this she angrily tore at her sandwich. Before Ali knew it, her sandwich was gone, and all she was left with was a bitterness in her mouth that wasn't from the sandwich.
Why am i so angry? There's nothing to be angry about! I'm such a dummie. Just get up and go back to the greenhouses and do your work.
She did just that. Depositing her trash in the recepticle, she washed her hands, grabbed a quick drink from the water fountain, and took off back down the hall toward the greenhouses.
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Sat. May 20.
Ali made her way out toward one of the greenhouses. Deciding to go into one she hadn't been in yet, she braced herself for the overwhelming blast of humidity and warmth she knew would come. After the initial shock, she walked in and prepared to get herself aquainted. There were seeds and potting plants available for her to work on, and it also seemed that some of the younger specimins could use a little more room. Taking up that job, Ali began to busy herself organizing some empty pots and collecting the supplies she would need for her work area.
It took a few moments, and in those few she began to hum along to a tune she had heard in the taxi's car on the ride over. After the first few specimens, which were labeled "German Ivy" were re-potted, the humming turned to singing, which grew louder and louder as she got into the rhythm of her work. She loved this kind of job, where she could get into a zone and completely forget about the rest of the world. She would continue like this till someone interuppted her, or she noticed the end of her shift.
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Wed. May24.
Ali listened intently to all that was told between the employees and herself. Having gotten very few hours of sleep the night before due to Kitkat. (something about her constantly wanting to nose nuzzle, waking her up) Ali knew that the information wasn't going to really sink in till tomorrow. Nevertheless, she wanted to atleast appear as a studious and learning employee, which she truly was.
Ali had an immediate stomach butterfly the second the badges were placed on the table. Never before had she been promoted through a job so quickly. It was by chance she had even found the hiring add, hidden in a tiny corner of the newspaper, half faded by the coffee she had spilt on it. When the add had mentioned room for advancement, she had no idea this was what it meant, but it excited her nonetheless.
Ali shifted uneasily next to Petra. She knew nothing of the girl, but it seemed she'd be working with her quite intimately now. Not enjoying strangers in such close proximity, the butterflies remained in the pit of her stomach through the remaining moments.
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Fri. May 26
Alinedra presented herself to Jennine Claret-Sinai after it seemed everyone was done explaining things. Giving a little bow, she looked up and introduced herself.
"Hello, i'm Alinedra Edens. We're to report to you right away for our job assignment. " Remembering the badge, Ali picked it up and pinned it to her flannel shirt pocket. Placing her hands behind her back, she waited for Jennine to respond.
Jennine looked Alinedra and Petra up and down. Feeling self conscious that Petra was much better dressed for the job, Ali blushed a little. However, never lacking in pride, and knowing that clothes did not make the person, she stood up a little taller.
" You'll go to the BioDome and get yourself aquainted there before working anywhere else. Edwin will show you around, but mostly you'll be tidying and cleaning. When i have need of your services I shall call on you." With that, Jennine walked swiftly, if not arroganty out of the room. Ali stiffened at the briskness of it, but at the same time knew this woman was leaps and bounds ahead of her in her knowledge, so she respected her just the same.
Turning to Edwin she gave a little bow.
" If you could show us to the biodome," Ali said, motioning to Petra,"We would be glad to get started."
" Well, hope you brought some elbow grease because the biodome hasn't had a good going over since the last technicians we had were employed here. It's been quite a while since they were promoted, so you'll have a lot of work to do. But it'll be fun, i promise" Edwin said, with a refreshingly pleasant grin on his face. "Follow me, and we can get started." And with that, walked out of the room.
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(( I think i missed some RP somewhere, but i'm picking up with the newness))
Wed. Sep 27
Alinedra brushed back a stray strand of hair. Weeks now she'd been working in the BioDome, cleaning it spotless. Edwin was right, it had been a long time since anyone had attempted it. Only a few more things to do though, and she'd be completely done. Atleast with the cleaning. Edwin was already coming up with potting arrangements and replanting procedures that would undoubtedly occupy the rest of Alinedra's known existance. She didn't mind though. Every day of good solid work left her greatly satisfied at the end of the day. And that's all one can really want in a job. She was however, looking into the future.
Ali, just yesterday, enrolled herself into the local community college for part time classes. She figured that if she were going to be working here a while, she may as well make herself more useful. So she plucked up the courage and enrolled in a general science program. Her councilors set up a schedule for the next few years for her to take the classes she wanted, and needed, to better her career at The Vale facility. If anything, she mused, it would keep her busy in her off hours. Her private life was, well, lacking in excitement, and she needed something to fill her hours at home other than spoil her cat more.
Ali continued scrubbing the sinks free of the mold and mildew they'd collected, and daydreamed about her future.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Monday, Nov 27. (Breast cancer thread, pg 1 cool
Ali awoke with a start. Unsure as to the nature of her nightmare, but knowing that she indeed had just escaped from one, it took her a few moments to slow down the heart that was attempting to beat out of her chest. Lying back with a thump, She looked out the window at the blue sky forming outside. It was a beautiful day out, and she was glad about that. Ever since the rainy season started, she'd been more and more depressed about the state of affairs her life was in.
Suddenly she started. It was already day! The sky wasn't becoming blue, it WAS blue! Turning to the clock, it flashed 11am. In a mad dash, Ali ran through her apartement gathering her things and getting dressed. How she had ended up sleeping in she had no idea, but it didn't stop her from muttering every backwater inappropriate curse and insult she had in her vocabulary. Kitkat made one squeek of a meow during the whole time and dashed under the bed. Ali would have to make it up to her later, but right now she was late for work.
Getting to the compound was the slow and irritating part. Finally getting her own car, she was still at the whims and desires of the others on the road. All of whom, in Alinedra's opinion, were going too slow. Finally spotting the gate, she began to calm a bit, knowing she was there. A glance at the car clock told her she had made it right at the beginning of lunch. No one would be around really, so she had time to get started on some work, and leave her excuse at the front desk.
Ali ran herself through the deserted hallways after leaving a small note at the front desk as to her mishap. The sound of music filled her ears, and she almost stopped when she passed the source, seeing two of her co-workers, but she knew if she didn't get some work started she'd just burst from emberassment. She'd had a whole morning, she didn't need a lunch break. She did however, skid to a halt and begin walking. No need to use up all her energy at one time!
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Wed. November 29, Breast Cancer thread pg. 24
Alinedra finally made it to her work station. Each of the employees in this area had a little work area they could call their own, that generally had a printed or written agenda for them to follow. So Ali wasn't suprised to run up and see the familiar white paper there. The following is what it said:
Have a feeling you slept in. Hope you're feeling alright. When you get in, i need you to replant and add fencing to the ivy section, they're outgrowing their area.
Sprawled in a quick but legible handwriting, Alinedra sighed in relief. She'd have to make it up to the boss, but it didn't seem she was in too much trouble.
Organizing her work space, she began to bring over the first specimens for replanting. Arranging them how she needed, and being sure she had all her materials, she took a step back and dug in her pocket.
Pulling out proper change she smiled. She'd have a nice coke before she began, and then get to work. She was still sort of groggy, and needed the caffiene boost.
So, exiting the biodome, she meandered toward the break area. Depositing the change, she slammed the coke buttom particularly hard. It was known to stick, and she didn't feel like persuading it gently. Grabbing the coke as it thunked down to the opening she grabbed a nearby chair and sat back, opening her soda with a fizz and pop. Taking a sip, Ali lavished in the cold, crisp beverage, and was glad she'd talked herself into the small treat.
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Fri, December 1, Breast Cancer thread, pg 29
Ali nursed her coke, sitting back and daydreaming about this and that. Her daydreams lately gravitated more toward her promotion to researcher, but she knew she was a long way from that.
Right as she was about to get up and go about her work, Edwin Batyon turned the corner into the break room. Startled at first, a wide grin came across his face when he recognized who it was sitting in front of him.
"Well hey there Ali, welcome to the land of the living. I got your note." Throwing another knowing smirk her way, Edwin continued to the coke machine and got his usual, Fanta dark cherry. He had explained once that they kept this on specific for him. It had taken a lot of discussing, but eventually Natsube had agreed to do it. Ali think he argued it mostly for the sake of something to argue about to win, but she admired his conviction.
" Yeah, sorry about that. I swear i had set my alarm last night, but i must not have. Was up late studying, i've got a test at the end of the week." Ali stretched her arms. She did indeed remember falling asleep now with a book. After her beginning employment here, Alinedra had enrolled in the local community college, taking night classes for what she believed would be her final decision for a job. She was really taking a liking to botony and all it entailed.
" How are those night classes going? Gosh, i remember my college years. So much homework, so little time. Didn't think my head could hold it all after a while." Edwin smiled, " Of course, here i am, so i must not have messed up too badly." Running his hand through his carrot coloured hair, Ali smiled. She had always thought Edwin's appearance had been quite dashing. A mix between irish and korean, his dark skin and freckles was so unique, Ali almost blushed admiring it. Once or twice she had been cought doing it, but both times they had brushed it off. They were too into their jobs for anything romantic, and her's was more or less an aesthetic attraction. Not to downplay his personality, which was quite charming and carefree, but it wasn't for her.
" Yes well, i'm lucky enough to be able to learn hands on at work, and go home and learn the details. It's fun, and i'm glad i decided on it. It just leaves me tired at the end of the day is all." Ali flashed him a smile.
" Just make sure you're here on time next time. You know how i am." Edwin shrugged. " Besides, you only missed out on a wonderful morning of not much to do. Our new arrivals didn't get moved into the dome until right before you go there. Speaking of, shall we go and attend to them? I've got a great new CD to play while we do it." Edwin laughed, knowing how odd his collection was compared to other people's.
Making a face, Ali agreed, and the two began the walk back to the biodome. Ali asked questions that she hadn't understood on her homework, and Edwin quizzed her on random things she had learned already. Once they got to the dome however, it was all business. It's tough work replanting plants properly, to ensure proper growth. Even harder for plants that required special equipment, such as the fencing that had to be placed just right for the ivy to grow up, preventing it from growing down and intertwining it with other plants around it. Left on it's own, Ivy could literally choke the life out of other plants, just to get closer to the sun. Thus did they continue for the next few hours.
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thursday, December 7, Breast Cancer thread page thirty six.
Ali and Edwin soon feel into a routine. After having made the small fencing that the ivy would be urged to grow up, they proceeded to changing pots. Now, some plants are eager to be replanted. They keep their roots in reasonably well kept order and are easy to replant. Others however, who's personality is quite sparadic and slightly selfish, can get themselves into just about any sort of trouble. The trouble with the ivy plants were, not only were their tops entagled together, having been started in a common planter, but so were their roots. It was a tough time attempting to untangle everything, and they were both soon covered with a layer of glowing sweat from the hard work.
Edwin stood up after a while and brushed his orange hair out of his eyes, along with a bit of dirt that had been there. " This will definately never happen again. I did'nt realize how much these little buggers would entwine! Definately making note of it and informing staff so it never happens again. "
Edwin began to write things down on pages in his work journal while Ali continued to untangle. They were only a quarter of the way done, on a job that should have only taken the day to complete. Returning, Edwin handed Alinedra a message.
" Here, take this to the greenhouses and make sure it gets to some staff. I think Kyo is the only one working there regularly. He's scheduled to be in today. I know for a fact he's got another batch of these ready for planting, so make sure you hand this to him personally." Turning and continuing to mutter under his breath about the audacity of ivy, Alinedra got up and shaked the dirt off of all her visible areas.
Ali hadn't seen Kyo since her promotion to the biodome. It had been unfortunate, since he had been her first friend here at the Facility. Work schedules were, unfortunately, hard to work around, and with her classes, she just had zero time to see him.
As Alinedra departed the biodome, she walked at a comfortable pace through the labrynth of hallways that composed the Vale building. She knew the way well, and barely had to look up from her thinking as she made her way. She wondered how the other employees were doing. There had been many when she had first been hired on in a janitorial position, and have hence dwindled to almost non existance. She had heard of some being promoted, but very few. And in truth, not much at all had happened since her promotion to biodome technician. She heard rumors from the researchers of a rare Vale being fought over for guardianship, but those were not really a part of her concern. She felt so close, yet so far away from her ability to interact with such things, that Ali felt it wise to not linger. After all, she was so busy with college.
Stepping outside, she felt the warm sun and a slight cool breeze. She indeed missed working in the greenhouses, for her and Kyo would often picnic out in the air during breaks. The biodome was not quite the same. Doing her same little hop on the stepping stones to the greenhouses, Ali came up outside the one that was generally used the most. Pulling the huge door open, she was assaulted by a blast of warm humid air from the inside. Suddenly the familiar smell of dirt and fertilizer washed over her, and she knew she missed this part of her job.
Getting inside however, there wasn't a single sign of Kyo, or any other person for that matter. Finding a sheet of paper, she wrote a quick note indicating the need to see Edwin in the likeliness that Ali herself could not find him, she left the greenhouse and continued on inside. He was apt to be up to some form of small mischief, and it was only a matter of time before she found him. No matter how small of a wanderlust he might have, Kyo had always been big on duty as well.
With a shrug, Alinedra went into the building to find the young elven man and whatever adventure he was entertaining.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Wednesday, December 13, Breast Cancer Thread. page 43
Ali plods through the empty halls. Soon, in the silence, her mind begins to wander to other topics. Her mind was suddenly full of technical terms she was studying in class, and her continued worry that her career might have hit a stagnant area.
Lost in those thoughts, Ali was incredibly suprised to turn the corner and run full on into three of her co-workers. Giving a little scream, her face flushed with emberassment at her lack of attention to where she was going.
" Kyo! Just the person i wanted to see. I've got an important note for you from Edwin. " Handing over the note, she greets the other two employees she hadn't seen for a while, and begins to catch up with them.
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Thursday, December 14. Breast Cancer Page 45
Ali giggled a bit. "It has been awful lonely lately. This facility is so big, we never run into each other anymore! We should plan things to do together more often. I know we can't all be THAT busy" Alinedra smiled. She knew very well that they could be all that busy, but a little group get together once a week wouldn't hurt anything, and they could probably find some proactive project to accomplish in the mean time.
Suddenly having a lightbulb idea, Ali spoke up. " Why not get together from now on, once a week, and do a sort of cleaning slash lunch slash hanging out thing in the biodome or somewhere that needs it. We can keep the bosses happy, and still see each other."
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same page:
Ali chuckles a little. " Those sensitive elven ears of yours, you should walk around with ear muffs" Turning to the others, she gets a queer look on her face.
" What ARE you doing here anyway? I searched everywhere, and this is the last place i expected to see you. The new wing isn't fully opporational yet is it? So what's up with it?"
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Quote:
wed. april 12.
*Czerniana notices a bunch of other janitors sitting at one end of the hallway.
"How many Janitors are they hiring?" she curses under her breath. "I'll just have to deal with it it seems"
Finding a broom closet, she grabs one of the janitor carts, throws some cleaners onto it, being sure to grab her favourite Orange cleaner, (she loves the citrus smell) and trucks off to the nearest elevator.
"Maybe they havn't started on the other floors yet" So finding a utility elevator, she gets on and pushes the 3 floor button.
"lets hope...."
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Getting to the third floor, the only light were the dull security lights located every 30 or so feet.
" Wonder if i'm supposed to be here..... " Stepping out of the elevator and throwing her hair in a ponytail, she could see numerous sneaker streaks and piles of dust in the corners.
" Heh, looks like i am." Finding a light switch, She flipped it on and started to get to work. Grabbing the googone, she then attacked the sneaker streaks with a vengance.
"Hope someone comes to help. There are so many!"
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Alinedra looked up as the elevator dinged and a male exited.
"About time" She thought. Squirting a quite disgusting pile of gum and dirt smeared across the floor, she turned to him and smiled.
" Hello there. I was wondering when i'd see another janitor around, there seemed to be so many down on the first floor, i wondered if i was even supposed to be up here."
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Wed. April 13.
Gazing up at Kyo, Ali moves a stray piece of hair out of her face and extended her hand. Looking down at it though, she blushed at the obvious work hands, missing that feminine softness that she wished she could have.
" I'm Alinedra, or Ali for short" She smiled a sweet smile up at him. She couldn't help but be fascinated with his carefree attitude, it being so foreign to herself.
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Ali thought to herself, remembering a happier time, playing in the meadows and forests, tending to plants that she found to be particularly wonderful.
" When i was a child, my family owned many acres of land. My days used to be spent romping through the hills and woods, playing with the only thing around. Plants." Ali blushed, emberassed that she was sharing such a private detail. " I've always felt the need to take care of something. This opportunity came along after a long rut of nothing.... So you see, i had to take the job."
Now the colour of bright red, she turned away and scrubbed furiously on a spot for a moment, but then paused slowly and chuckled softly to herself. Looking up at Kyo's quizical expression, she continued.
" I havn't really told anyone that before.... the need to take care of something that is." She grinned. " It must be these darn chemicals! hehe"
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Frid. April 14
Ali's head fell toward the floor, and she let out a deep painful sigh.
"My parents died in a car accident. I grew up with my aunt and uncle. They were very nice people, don't get me wrong! But things were just never the same..." Her voice trailed off, as visions of the day the police came to the school, tore her from her classroom, and told her the horrible news.
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Ali let out one more sigh and looked up.
"What am i talking about all this sad stuff for?! I'm fine now. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and that's just what i am. No sob stories for me, no sir. " As if rehersed, Alinedra looked down, with a strained smile on her face and started to clean again. Why was she blabbering about all of this to this man she hardly knew?! He's surely to think her strange now, but she just felt she couldn't lie to him. Or rather that she shouldn't...
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Alinedra let out a hearfelt laugh and allowed herself to be dragged away from the work she had not even thought about all morning.
" But.... where are we going?" She laughed, as Kyo led her through hallway after hallway. He wore a boyish green, but she could tell there was a lifetime of knowledge under it. Could she be like this? Could she be carefree as this man was? Perhaps she'd have to learn. Or learn more of him.
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Sat. April 15.
Alinedra followed Kyo into the elevator, blushing slightly as she brushed up against him.
"No, i didn't bring anything. I had planned on just grabbing a snack or two out of a vending machine. Which i'm sure are SOMEWHERE in this place. Probably wasn't the smartest idea i've ever had though." As if in response, her stomach let out a low grumble, and her face turned flush red.
" Hehe.....definately not the smartest"
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Ali followed Kyo very closely out of the elevator. This may be her new work building, but she still wasn't sure where she was, and it made her a bit nervous.
Noticing the shadow, Ali barely had time to register what Kyo was doing. Giggling, she ran after Kyo as he took off after tapping on the window.
" You are going to get us into trouble! Hehehe." Running down the hall she took the lead and jogged lightly inspecting doors as she went by. And that's when she saw it. Skidding to a halt and looking down an adjacent (They need spellcheck on gaia -_- ) hallway, shrouded in it's own light was a row of vending machines, complete with little microwave area and tables.
Casually tossing her hair out of her face and looking back she winked at Kyo.
" Guess it's snickers and stale pretzels for me after all!" And grinning she started toward the vending machines.
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Giggling at Kyo's complete satisfaction with his sandwich, Alinedra turned to the vending machines to inspect the possobilities.
" Snickers..... Peanuts.... Potatoe chips..... Oooohhh!! Funyans!" Depositing the exact change, she pulled out a bag of funyans and huggled it. " I havn't had these for years!" Pulling out more change, she got herself a Dr. Pepper and a Three Muskateers bar.
" It's the lunch of champions, i swear" she said, sitting down at the same table Kyo was at. She looked down at her lunch and laughed out loud. " I think i should probably pack a lunch from now on, I doubt this will get me very far health wise."
Popping the funyans open, she began to munch away happily.
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Alinedra looked up from her muskateers bar.
" Well, I smell lemoney fresh" Ali laughed comfortably. "Other than that, i'm just glad that i met someone that i can get along with my first day. I've had many jobs where no one wants to talk to me. It gets sort of lonely." Ali blushed and looked back down, shoving a funyon in her mouth.
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Alinedra laughed. " I've so many worries, i don't know where to begin sometimes. The curse of caring about things i'm afraid." Ali looked down and continued. " I have little heartbreaks every day because i care so much about things. My father used to say to me ' Ali, you're going to have to learn to hide your heart, or one day, you'll find it's broken to so many pieces you can't find them'....... Of course, i never could learn to. Only slightly. I could never just care for myself, no matter how lonely i might be. I somehow find something." Ali took a swig of her Dr. Pepper and sat back in her chair, gazing off into space daydreaming.
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After a moment of silence she laughed out loud. " Here i am being down again! Kyo, you picked the wrong floor when you picked mine. I'll do nothing but ruin your good moods!" She smiled and looked down at her empty bag of funyon's, wondering if the crumbs were worth emberassing herself to get.
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Alinedra leaned forward, proping her head up with her hand, elbow to the table, smiling. " So, I take it you don't have a girlfriend then, if you're THAT happy with life." Ali grinned that wickedly female grin right at that second.
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" I figured as much." Alinedra commented back. She leaned back in her chair and crossed her arms, smiling.
" I know your kind. You have a trail of girls hearts following you wherever you go, no matter how much you tell them no. " Alinedra laughed, "Yes, i know your kind well."
Alinedra dug in her pocket and counted the remainder of her change. Glancing over, she discovered a rice krispy treat on the bottom shelf, just enough for her budget. Getting up laughing, she deposited the change, got the food, and sat back down.
" It's not to say it's a bad thing. I've just got to ignore your cute charm as much as possible." Winking, then letting out a chuckle, she munched on her treat.
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Alinedra laughed, noticing his quick change of subject.
" Alright alright, i can take a hint." Chugging the last of her Dr. Pepper, and throwing away her trash, Alinedra did a whole body stretch, reaching to the ceiling. She then pulled her hair down, brushed it back up with her hand, and remade her ponytail.
" Oi. I really need to get this hair cut! It's in my face all the time. " Ali thought about it for a moment, then shook her head. Her mother always loved her long red hair. The day she cut it herself with a pair of scissors was the first time she had seen her mother cry. Of course, it could be because it was a whole three inches on one side, and six on the other, but oh well.
" Oh who am i kidding. I love my long hair." Turning to Kyo, who was still chugging water, she smiled.
" Now, oh fearless leader, you have to get us back to our cleaning supplies"
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Mon. April 17.
Giggling, Alinedra followed him the whole way. She hadn't had so much fun in years, which was probably the saddest part of the whole time. When was the last time she had smiled so much? She couldn't remember.
" It's time i changed." She thought to herself. Or else she'd be a sad lonely old maid, with a hundered cats, and not a smile in her life.
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Alinedra huffed her way to the elevator right as she heard the announcement over the main speakers. Standing in the doorway to listen, peering up at the ceiling as if it spoke herself, she could hardly believe it when she heard Kyo and her own name over the announcements.
Gasping, she turned to kyo and hugged him, pushing herself and him into the elevator so that the doors closed behind them.
" Did you hear that?! We've been promoted!! No more scrubbing floors! (atleast hallway floors)" Ali danced around the elevator, still sitting still waiting for someone's command to change floors.
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Following Kyo out of the elevator, still flushed from the dancing inside, she began to gather up her cleaning supplies and put them away.
" I don't recall seeing greenhouses. Though i know they're somewhere around here. Perhaps around back? I sort of didn't pay attention when i got out of the cab." Ali looked down at her mop. Trusty mop. Alinedra had had her own gardens in her time, but was she really ready to have this responsobility? Brushing aside some loose strands of hair, she looked out a nearby window. Or course she was ready, they wouldn't let her do it if she wasn't. And of course there's bound to be someone out there to tell her what to do. Janitor jobs are fairly simple. Attending to a greenhouse would require some sort of watchful eye at some point.
" it's going to be late by the time we get this stuff put away and find the greenhouses. We'll probably just have a little tour and be on our way home for the day." Alinedra said, turning to Kyo. She did a little stretch and felt her back crack. Wincing, she rubbed the base of her back.
" And a good thing too, I'm so out of shape, this floor cleaning has killed my back! " Ali laughed and fixed the pony tail that was again falling out of place. ' I could be a champion pony tail maker ' She thought to herself, smiling.
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Tue. April 18
Waving goodbye to Kyo, Alinedra finished putting her supplies away and looked down at her hands. Far from the gentle feminine things they should be, she shook her head in disapproval.
My Aunt would kill me if she saw the state of these nails. She thought to herself.
Taking one last look at the hallway to make sure she had everything, she made for the elevator. Pushing the down button, she began to hum to herself as she heard the whir of the chords behind the shiny silver door. With a ding, the doors flew open, and Ali positioned the cart inside and pushed the one button.
Kyo was a very strange man. Nice, but strange. She thought to herself. I could never be that carefree. Not a worry in the world! That'd be the day. I think i even worry in my sleep. Ali grinned at herself. Pathetic to the end, as an old maid with a million cats.
Exiting the elevator, she put her cart away and pulled out a small pink razor phone. Flipping it open, the picture of a green meadow appeared before she ran through the phone book, calling the taxi service she used.
" Yes, that's right, i'm ready to be picked up now" She replied to the man that had answered on the other end. Ready to go home, for a full day of adventure tomorrow.
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Alinedra unlocked the front door of her apartement and stepped into familiar darkness. Stepping in she flipped the light on and sat her keys down on the small table by the door. Flipping through the mail she had retrieved from her downstairs mailbox she sighed. Bills bills and more bills. When did i get this poor?
A faint Meow broke the silence, and a small orange and brown calico cat came skidding across the hardwood toward Ali's leg.
" Well atleast i have you Kitkat. " She mused, bending over to pick up the darling feline that was her only companion. Kitkat purred in her ear and licked her cheek lovingly.
" Yuuuuck, cat tongue. " Ali laughed, carrying kit to the kitchen to inspect her food and water bowls. "Hungry today i see. " Putting Kitkat down she grabbed the bag of Meow Mix and emptied its contents into a small silver bowl. "Guess i have to go to the store tomorrow. Or you'll kill me with your whining." Ali laughed, got some chips out of the cupboard and started to munch away while doing some random cleaning around the apartement.
" Come on kitkat, it's time for bed. " She called, after an hour of straightening and eating. She was so very tired, and her back was begging for her to lay down on her wonderfully padded down matress. Reaching in her drawers, she found her favourite pajamas. She'd had the gown since she was probably nine, but she still could wear it, though granted it was a bit shorter. It had blue short sleeves, and came down to about her mid thigh now. The front had a picture of Charlie Brown and Snoopy, under an umbrella in the jungle, and it said "save the rainforests" underneith. Sort of fitting after my promotion today Ali chuckled to herself. Throwing on the gown and turning the lights off she snuggled into bed, Kitkat already having taken her position on the pillow next to hers, beginning to snooze away happily. " Night darling..." She said. She didn't have much time to think about her day though, as she was soon dreaming peacefully, resting before another day of adventure....
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Thur. April 20
Alinedra ran from the end of the long driveway that came up to the vale. The taxi driver had given her a load of crap about " being on private property " and had refused to drop her off in front of the building.
Crap, i'm so late! I'm going to kill that driver. He had to take the longest way here! She thought, puffing her way down the drive.
Looking ahead, she could see Kyo waiting for her. Smiling, she ran faster and came to a skidding halt infront of him.
" I'm so sorry! This taxi driver was just... and he wouldn't.... and..so i'm... late" Ali managed to say through catching her breath. Looking up, she cough his eyes and smiled.
" Lets find those... greenhouses..."
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Alinedra cocked her head to the side while listening to him. He was definately different. Men.... She said in here head, giving it a little shake from side to side.
" Well, we can make our way there, perhaps there is someone waiting for us, or a note. " Not waiting for a reply, Ali began to take a path that lead around to the back of the facility. Made of stepping stones, she couldn't help but give a little hop from one stone to the next. Taking a deep breath, she could smell the abundant budding flowers and freshly manicured grass. A few hours ago would have been my favourite time, all covered in dew, with a slight mist everywhere.... Lost in daydream, she didn't even turn around to see if Kyo was following.
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Looking around, Alinedra spotted a bench under a tree about a football field away.
" Well, it looks like SOMEONE is allowed out there. I dont' see why we couldn't! I'm sure the grass is alright to walk on. We'll ask someone if we see them. I'd hate to go walking around and get into trouble after we just got promoted. "
Getting around to the back of the building, there were many large greenhouses. Going to the one labeled "greenhouse 1" She jiggled the handle. Amazingly, it opened. Turning back to Kyo, she gave a shrug and walked in.
The humidity was killer, but she was alright with it. Her Aunt had had a small greenhouse growing up, and Ali had spent many hours in there tending to her own little corner of herbs and various odd flowers she enjoyed. The first little room looked like a storage area of tools. All arranged as precisely as dirt covered instruments could be, it was obvious there was a lot of TLC involved in these greenhouses.
A note was posted on the door that Alinedra assumed went into the main greenhouse area. It read...
Quote:
Welcome Alinedra and Kyocho. I'm sorry i couldn't be down here to show you around, but the greenhouses are pretty self explanetory and labeled very well. Your job today will be to simply plant the selected seeds each in their individual own plant, fertilize them, water them a bit, and place them in their designated labeled spot. When that is through, I'll need you to spritz the rest of the plants. Each greenhouse has a different species that needs potted, so you should be alright for the next little while. Become aquainted with the area, and please, put the tools back where you found them, it's a little pet peeve of mine.
Yours,
The Greenhouse Keeper
Taking the note down, she handed it to Kyo to read. Opening the door, she was blasted with more warmth, and the beginning of the day.
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Ali turned to Kyo, " We'll do fine. I've planted seeds all my life. Hehe, I was sort of my Aunt's little garden slave. "
Turning back, the greenhouse had one large table running through the middle of it, with plants stationed in the center, but with enough room to work. Against the wall on one side was a work table, Empty pots lining the length of the greenhouse, stacked about seven high. Toward the middle was what looked like a medic's IV tray, but instead of needles and gauze, it was filled with what looked like neatly labeled paper bags, with what Alinedra could only assume were seeds inside. Underneath the tables were bags and bags of potting soil, and a few rather larger potting plants. On the other wall were more plants, filling the long table so much there seemed no extra room.
(( Yeah, i'm out of it. Imagine a normal greenhouse, and if you don't know what that looks like, imagine the one in Harry Potter. lol ))
Turning to Kyo, Alinedra smiled. " Have you done massive potting before? "
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Ali strolled around, looking for all the supplies she would need. At the end of the greenhouse, attached to a wall was a big roll of plastic. Good, now for the trays... Looking around, she found the flats she was looking for. Connected together, it looked like twenty or so tiny plastic trays, these were equipped with nifty carrying handles and a flat sturdy bottom. There was a whole stack of these trays in the back of the greenhouse under the table.
" See Kyo, we have to fill this with dirt and fertilizer, moisten it, and plant the seeds, then cover it in plastic. Easy as that. Depending on the seed size we either push it into the dirt a half inch, or some barely covered with dirt. Once they have sprouted, we uncover them, let them grow a little more, and then put them in their own pots. Easy peasy. " Alinedra grinned at herself, greatful she knew something for once.
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Alinedra purred at Kyo " I wouldn't start a fight you won't win", and she turned around and started for the seeds.
Looking in the tray, she found many different labels, already made out for when they're finished with a species. Flipping through the packets of seeds, some of the labels were flowers, some were veggies. She recogniazed none of them.
" Lets see, do we want to start with....Dakota Gold Helenium, Echinacea Sunrise, or Verbascum Rosetta?" She giggled, grabbing the Gold Helenium.
"These names crack me up. But i guess everything can't just be a 'sunflower' or 'daisy'...wonder what these will look like grown. The Echinacea sunrises sounded interesting."
Bringing the bag of seeds over to Kyo, she waited while he battled with the soil bag.
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Alinedra laughed and began to help what was basically playing in the dirt. It had been years since she had felt the cool ground between her fingers, or sat in the warmth of a greenhouse. Her body by now was covered with a thin layer of moisture, smelling of fresh dirt. She loved that smell and breathed in deeply. After a little while her eyes begain to feel heavy, and her breathing slowed dramatically.
" Kyo, i'm going to get a soda, you want one? If i dont' get some sort of energy in me, i'm going to absolutely curl up and fall asleep in here." Ali dug into her pocket and pulled out two dollars.
" On me. What kind do you want? "
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Giggling her way through the door, not used to having it held, Alinedra made for the back of the building. The fresh air was like a wake up call, and she could feel her energy returning to her. She still had the urge to lie down in the grass and take a nap though, so the caffiene still sounded like a good idea.
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Fri. April 21.
" You bet it is Kyo. " Ali yelled behind her. Getting to the door first, she sat there and held it open as Kyocho approached. With a wicked grin she said, "Women and kyocho's first."
At that moment a breeze threw a strand of hair in her eye, and Ali took up the familiar position of fixing her hair back in her pony tail, while propping the door open with her foot, waiting for Kyo to go through.
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Sat. April 22.
Ali giggled as Kyo went by, almost uncontrollably. Walking in slightly, she felt the door slam her in the rear and she let out a yelp, which echoed in the hallway. She turned bright red still giggling.
"Heheh, whoops." She said through the laughing, and prepared to follow Kyo.
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Alinedra started to recogniaze the hallway and knew they were getting close. Laughing to herself as she watched Kyo stalk his prey, she hung back a bit humming to herself a tune she had watched on a movie the night before. One thing she had always been good at was singing, and she hummed every note on key.
Seeing Kyo take a turn she knew they had made it to the vending machines. Taking her fine time she made it down the hallway and handed Kyo a dollar from her pocket. " There ya go! " And she deposited her dollar into the machine and pressed the button for a nice cool coke.
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Sun. April 23.
Watching Kyo drink from the waterfountain she chuckled and took a long chug on her soda. The coke was exactly what she wanted. Twisting the cap back on, she waited for Kyo to finish his drink.
" You know, if you got a water bottle you could take it outside and keep refilling it all day. It'd make more sense." Ali smiled, knowing Kyo would more than likely shrug and grin with some excuse of enjoying the walk in here or adventure of finding the place. It was perfectly fine with her though, she had mentioned it more out of principal than anything else.
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Mon. April 24.
Alinedra chuckled and shook her head.
" Come on silly, let's get back out to those greenhouses, we've got a lot of work to do before lunch! " And turning on her heal she started to walk back the way they came, pony tail bobbing the whole way.
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Mon. May 01.
Alinedra stumbles her way back from the bathroom to the greenhouses. Her head was pounding, and her stomach did nothing but turn itself into knots.
Ugh.... maybe the soda? or lack of breakfast perhaps... She thought, musing over the possible causes of her sudden illness. Maybe she would just take the rest of the day off.... or nap in the greenhouse and see if that helped. She'd run it by Kyo... if she could find him.
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Thu. May 04.
Ali stumbled to the front where the cab was waiting for her. Whatever this virus was, it had worked on her quickly, and she could barely walk straight as she concentrated on not tripping on the stepping stones. Hard to believe she had skipped down these earlier in the morning. Hopefully some warm tea and sleep would get rid of whatever it was that she had.
Hopping in the cab, the driver took off a little too fast, and Ali could feel the migrane starting from the base of her head. Ever jerk of the cab made it pound painfully, sending ringing to her ears.
Getting home, she threw the cabbie some cash and climbed the flights of stairs to her apartement. Throwing her keys down, feeding the cat, and throwing the kettle on, she barely noticed how the rest of the evening went. She knows she drank tea at one point, but the next thing she knew she was in bed with the covers up to her nose, collapsed. Setting the alarm, Ali rolled over and waited for the morning. Hopefully she would feel better than she felt at current.
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Ali woke up with the sound of an alarm in her ear. Slapping it off, she sat up and yawned. Kitkat already on the bed nuzzling against her, she could hardly believe how rejuvinated she felt. The bug must have worked it's way through her system. She hopped out of bed, and started to get ready for the morning.
After her shower, breakfast, and quick clean up, she was on her way out the door to the cab below. As he drove through the country to the facility, she hoped there would be a light load today incase she got ill again. Paying the driver after being let off the door, she made her way to the boiler room, put on her work clothes, and made toward the back to the greenhouses. Ali smiled as she skipped across the stones the way she had the morning before. Today will be a good day, she could tell. She had packed her lunch, the sun was shining, a slight breeze was in the air, she definately thought it would be a good day.
Walking into the greenhouse, she spied Kyo already at work. Being as stealthy as she could she made her way around behind him, ready to scare the bajeezus out of him....
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Ali positioned herself right behind Kyo and pounced.
"BOO!!!" she screamed, poking him in the sides, and then collapsing in a fit of giggles.
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Sun. May 07.
Ali got over giggling at Kyocho and started to hum as she helped him pot, repot, change pots, and generally do the days work. Every once in a while she'd throw a clump of dirt at Kyo, only to get a glare, a grin, and a bigger clump thrown back at her. She had noticed another girl coming in the Greenhouse and grabbing supplies. Obvious earphones were in though, and the feint sound of music could be heard even all the way across the warm interior of the garden house. Not wanting to disturb the rhythm she was in, she didn't bother to call out to her and get her attention. Ali just shrugged, assuming she'd get a chance to introduce herself at a later time.
After another hour of so of work, she glanced down at her watch, and just as she did her stomach rumbled. Turning to Kyo, she threw another clump, and laughed.
" Want to take our lunch break now? we've been working all morning..."
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Mon. May 8.
Laughing at Kyo's attempt at a revengeful glare, she nodded. "we have sort of made a mess with all of this dirt huh? You should be more careful. " She grinned, and hid behind a particularly bushy plant to block any flying dirt clumps that might be coming her way. Turning around, Alinedra noticed the girl she had seen before coming this way. Watching her come up and chat for a second with Kyo, she decided it was time for introductions. Ali, noticing the less than friendly, but not full of hatred smile, offered her hand. " Hi, we havn't met yet. I'm Alinedra. " And putting on her most dashing pretty girl smile, waited for petra to take her hand.
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Tue. May 9.
Ali shook petra's hand firmly. She turned to Kyo, " I hope he didn't say anything TOO awfule." and she winked toward him in a playful way. Looking around, she guessed what it might look like to an outsider and laughed. "Yes, we erm... well, it was more just a little squabble. The real war hasn't started yet. Kyo's too scared he'll lose to a girl. " And Ali laughed, threw one more little dirt clump she had hiding in her hand at Kyo and took off for the doors at full speed.
" LAST ONE TO THE VENDING MACHINES GETS TO SWEEP!" She called back, laughing all the way.
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Thur. May 11.
Alinedra ran full speed all the way to the door of the building and looked back to see if anyone was following.
Disappointed that no one was she frowned toward the greenhouses and pulled open the door swiftly, setting off down the hall toward the machines. Her sneakers squeaked as she walked, and she noted the floors were still pretty dirty. Perhaps the new janitor's weren't doing their job? It was more probable that the building was just too large.
Finding the alcove with the tables and machines she opened the fridge and pulled out her packed lunch. Placing it on the table she took some change out of her pocket and deposited it into the soda machine, getting a cold cherry soda. Popping the cap, she took a seat and sat back, stretching her tanned arms over her head.
I need to get out in the sun a little more. This tan is starting to fade. She thought. It was the first one she had had in hears. Before this, she had worked as a lawn mower. It had left her skin a wonderful shade of brown that fit her strawberry blonde hair very well.
Pulling out her peanut butter and jelly sandwich, she began to munch on it waiting for Kyocho to join her.
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Tue. May 16.
Ali sat eating her lunch to herself. It seemed Kyo was going to take his fine old time with this other girl. That was fine, she would go explore on her lunch hour. She didn't get to see much of the Vale while she was a janitor, having only been one for a day, so she would take now to get to know the facility.
Her only problem is, she was afraid she'd get lost. She didn't want to get late getting back to the greenhouses just for some thrill seeking. Perhaps she would go to the front desk and get a map, or perhaps even a tour.
During all this she angrily tore at her sandwich. Before Ali knew it, her sandwich was gone, and all she was left with was a bitterness in her mouth that wasn't from the sandwich.
Why am i so angry? There's nothing to be angry about! I'm such a dummie. Just get up and go back to the greenhouses and do your work.
She did just that. Depositing her trash in the recepticle, she washed her hands, grabbed a quick drink from the water fountain, and took off back down the hall toward the greenhouses.
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Sat. May 20.
Ali made her way out toward one of the greenhouses. Deciding to go into one she hadn't been in yet, she braced herself for the overwhelming blast of humidity and warmth she knew would come. After the initial shock, she walked in and prepared to get herself aquainted. There were seeds and potting plants available for her to work on, and it also seemed that some of the younger specimins could use a little more room. Taking up that job, Ali began to busy herself organizing some empty pots and collecting the supplies she would need for her work area.
It took a few moments, and in those few she began to hum along to a tune she had heard in the taxi's car on the ride over. After the first few specimens, which were labeled "German Ivy" were re-potted, the humming turned to singing, which grew louder and louder as she got into the rhythm of her work. She loved this kind of job, where she could get into a zone and completely forget about the rest of the world. She would continue like this till someone interuppted her, or she noticed the end of her shift.
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Wed. May24.
Ali listened intently to all that was told between the employees and herself. Having gotten very few hours of sleep the night before due to Kitkat. (something about her constantly wanting to nose nuzzle, waking her up) Ali knew that the information wasn't going to really sink in till tomorrow. Nevertheless, she wanted to atleast appear as a studious and learning employee, which she truly was.
Ali had an immediate stomach butterfly the second the badges were placed on the table. Never before had she been promoted through a job so quickly. It was by chance she had even found the hiring add, hidden in a tiny corner of the newspaper, half faded by the coffee she had spilt on it. When the add had mentioned room for advancement, she had no idea this was what it meant, but it excited her nonetheless.
Ali shifted uneasily next to Petra. She knew nothing of the girl, but it seemed she'd be working with her quite intimately now. Not enjoying strangers in such close proximity, the butterflies remained in the pit of her stomach through the remaining moments.
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Fri. May 26
Alinedra presented herself to Jennine Claret-Sinai after it seemed everyone was done explaining things. Giving a little bow, she looked up and introduced herself.
"Hello, i'm Alinedra Edens. We're to report to you right away for our job assignment. " Remembering the badge, Ali picked it up and pinned it to her flannel shirt pocket. Placing her hands behind her back, she waited for Jennine to respond.
Jennine looked Alinedra and Petra up and down. Feeling self conscious that Petra was much better dressed for the job, Ali blushed a little. However, never lacking in pride, and knowing that clothes did not make the person, she stood up a little taller.
" You'll go to the BioDome and get yourself aquainted there before working anywhere else. Edwin will show you around, but mostly you'll be tidying and cleaning. When i have need of your services I shall call on you." With that, Jennine walked swiftly, if not arroganty out of the room. Ali stiffened at the briskness of it, but at the same time knew this woman was leaps and bounds ahead of her in her knowledge, so she respected her just the same.
Turning to Edwin she gave a little bow.
" If you could show us to the biodome," Ali said, motioning to Petra,"We would be glad to get started."
" Well, hope you brought some elbow grease because the biodome hasn't had a good going over since the last technicians we had were employed here. It's been quite a while since they were promoted, so you'll have a lot of work to do. But it'll be fun, i promise" Edwin said, with a refreshingly pleasant grin on his face. "Follow me, and we can get started." And with that, walked out of the room.
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(( I think i missed some RP somewhere, but i'm picking up with the newness))
Wed. Sep 27
Alinedra brushed back a stray strand of hair. Weeks now she'd been working in the BioDome, cleaning it spotless. Edwin was right, it had been a long time since anyone had attempted it. Only a few more things to do though, and she'd be completely done. Atleast with the cleaning. Edwin was already coming up with potting arrangements and replanting procedures that would undoubtedly occupy the rest of Alinedra's known existance. She didn't mind though. Every day of good solid work left her greatly satisfied at the end of the day. And that's all one can really want in a job. She was however, looking into the future.
Ali, just yesterday, enrolled herself into the local community college for part time classes. She figured that if she were going to be working here a while, she may as well make herself more useful. So she plucked up the courage and enrolled in a general science program. Her councilors set up a schedule for the next few years for her to take the classes she wanted, and needed, to better her career at The Vale facility. If anything, she mused, it would keep her busy in her off hours. Her private life was, well, lacking in excitement, and she needed something to fill her hours at home other than spoil her cat more.
Ali continued scrubbing the sinks free of the mold and mildew they'd collected, and daydreamed about her future.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Monday, Nov 27. (Breast cancer thread, pg 1 cool
Ali awoke with a start. Unsure as to the nature of her nightmare, but knowing that she indeed had just escaped from one, it took her a few moments to slow down the heart that was attempting to beat out of her chest. Lying back with a thump, She looked out the window at the blue sky forming outside. It was a beautiful day out, and she was glad about that. Ever since the rainy season started, she'd been more and more depressed about the state of affairs her life was in.
Suddenly she started. It was already day! The sky wasn't becoming blue, it WAS blue! Turning to the clock, it flashed 11am. In a mad dash, Ali ran through her apartement gathering her things and getting dressed. How she had ended up sleeping in she had no idea, but it didn't stop her from muttering every backwater inappropriate curse and insult she had in her vocabulary. Kitkat made one squeek of a meow during the whole time and dashed under the bed. Ali would have to make it up to her later, but right now she was late for work.
Getting to the compound was the slow and irritating part. Finally getting her own car, she was still at the whims and desires of the others on the road. All of whom, in Alinedra's opinion, were going too slow. Finally spotting the gate, she began to calm a bit, knowing she was there. A glance at the car clock told her she had made it right at the beginning of lunch. No one would be around really, so she had time to get started on some work, and leave her excuse at the front desk.
Ali ran herself through the deserted hallways after leaving a small note at the front desk as to her mishap. The sound of music filled her ears, and she almost stopped when she passed the source, seeing two of her co-workers, but she knew if she didn't get some work started she'd just burst from emberassment. She'd had a whole morning, she didn't need a lunch break. She did however, skid to a halt and begin walking. No need to use up all her energy at one time!
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Wed. November 29, Breast Cancer thread pg. 24
Alinedra finally made it to her work station. Each of the employees in this area had a little work area they could call their own, that generally had a printed or written agenda for them to follow. So Ali wasn't suprised to run up and see the familiar white paper there. The following is what it said:
Have a feeling you slept in. Hope you're feeling alright. When you get in, i need you to replant and add fencing to the ivy section, they're outgrowing their area.
Sprawled in a quick but legible handwriting, Alinedra sighed in relief. She'd have to make it up to the boss, but it didn't seem she was in too much trouble.
Organizing her work space, she began to bring over the first specimens for replanting. Arranging them how she needed, and being sure she had all her materials, she took a step back and dug in her pocket.
Pulling out proper change she smiled. She'd have a nice coke before she began, and then get to work. She was still sort of groggy, and needed the caffiene boost.
So, exiting the biodome, she meandered toward the break area. Depositing the change, she slammed the coke buttom particularly hard. It was known to stick, and she didn't feel like persuading it gently. Grabbing the coke as it thunked down to the opening she grabbed a nearby chair and sat back, opening her soda with a fizz and pop. Taking a sip, Ali lavished in the cold, crisp beverage, and was glad she'd talked herself into the small treat.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Fri, December 1, Breast Cancer thread, pg 29
Ali nursed her coke, sitting back and daydreaming about this and that. Her daydreams lately gravitated more toward her promotion to researcher, but she knew she was a long way from that.
Right as she was about to get up and go about her work, Edwin Batyon turned the corner into the break room. Startled at first, a wide grin came across his face when he recognized who it was sitting in front of him.
"Well hey there Ali, welcome to the land of the living. I got your note." Throwing another knowing smirk her way, Edwin continued to the coke machine and got his usual, Fanta dark cherry. He had explained once that they kept this on specific for him. It had taken a lot of discussing, but eventually Natsube had agreed to do it. Ali think he argued it mostly for the sake of something to argue about to win, but she admired his conviction.
" Yeah, sorry about that. I swear i had set my alarm last night, but i must not have. Was up late studying, i've got a test at the end of the week." Ali stretched her arms. She did indeed remember falling asleep now with a book. After her beginning employment here, Alinedra had enrolled in the local community college, taking night classes for what she believed would be her final decision for a job. She was really taking a liking to botony and all it entailed.
" How are those night classes going? Gosh, i remember my college years. So much homework, so little time. Didn't think my head could hold it all after a while." Edwin smiled, " Of course, here i am, so i must not have messed up too badly." Running his hand through his carrot coloured hair, Ali smiled. She had always thought Edwin's appearance had been quite dashing. A mix between irish and korean, his dark skin and freckles was so unique, Ali almost blushed admiring it. Once or twice she had been cought doing it, but both times they had brushed it off. They were too into their jobs for anything romantic, and her's was more or less an aesthetic attraction. Not to downplay his personality, which was quite charming and carefree, but it wasn't for her.
" Yes well, i'm lucky enough to be able to learn hands on at work, and go home and learn the details. It's fun, and i'm glad i decided on it. It just leaves me tired at the end of the day is all." Ali flashed him a smile.
" Just make sure you're here on time next time. You know how i am." Edwin shrugged. " Besides, you only missed out on a wonderful morning of not much to do. Our new arrivals didn't get moved into the dome until right before you go there. Speaking of, shall we go and attend to them? I've got a great new CD to play while we do it." Edwin laughed, knowing how odd his collection was compared to other people's.
Making a face, Ali agreed, and the two began the walk back to the biodome. Ali asked questions that she hadn't understood on her homework, and Edwin quizzed her on random things she had learned already. Once they got to the dome however, it was all business. It's tough work replanting plants properly, to ensure proper growth. Even harder for plants that required special equipment, such as the fencing that had to be placed just right for the ivy to grow up, preventing it from growing down and intertwining it with other plants around it. Left on it's own, Ivy could literally choke the life out of other plants, just to get closer to the sun. Thus did they continue for the next few hours.
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thursday, December 7, Breast Cancer thread page thirty six.
Ali and Edwin soon feel into a routine. After having made the small fencing that the ivy would be urged to grow up, they proceeded to changing pots. Now, some plants are eager to be replanted. They keep their roots in reasonably well kept order and are easy to replant. Others however, who's personality is quite sparadic and slightly selfish, can get themselves into just about any sort of trouble. The trouble with the ivy plants were, not only were their tops entagled together, having been started in a common planter, but so were their roots. It was a tough time attempting to untangle everything, and they were both soon covered with a layer of glowing sweat from the hard work.
Edwin stood up after a while and brushed his orange hair out of his eyes, along with a bit of dirt that had been there. " This will definately never happen again. I did'nt realize how much these little buggers would entwine! Definately making note of it and informing staff so it never happens again. "
Edwin began to write things down on pages in his work journal while Ali continued to untangle. They were only a quarter of the way done, on a job that should have only taken the day to complete. Returning, Edwin handed Alinedra a message.
" Here, take this to the greenhouses and make sure it gets to some staff. I think Kyo is the only one working there regularly. He's scheduled to be in today. I know for a fact he's got another batch of these ready for planting, so make sure you hand this to him personally." Turning and continuing to mutter under his breath about the audacity of ivy, Alinedra got up and shaked the dirt off of all her visible areas.
Ali hadn't seen Kyo since her promotion to the biodome. It had been unfortunate, since he had been her first friend here at the Facility. Work schedules were, unfortunately, hard to work around, and with her classes, she just had zero time to see him.
As Alinedra departed the biodome, she walked at a comfortable pace through the labrynth of hallways that composed the Vale building. She knew the way well, and barely had to look up from her thinking as she made her way. She wondered how the other employees were doing. There had been many when she had first been hired on in a janitorial position, and have hence dwindled to almost non existance. She had heard of some being promoted, but very few. And in truth, not much at all had happened since her promotion to biodome technician. She heard rumors from the researchers of a rare Vale being fought over for guardianship, but those were not really a part of her concern. She felt so close, yet so far away from her ability to interact with such things, that Ali felt it wise to not linger. After all, she was so busy with college.
Stepping outside, she felt the warm sun and a slight cool breeze. She indeed missed working in the greenhouses, for her and Kyo would often picnic out in the air during breaks. The biodome was not quite the same. Doing her same little hop on the stepping stones to the greenhouses, Ali came up outside the one that was generally used the most. Pulling the huge door open, she was assaulted by a blast of warm humid air from the inside. Suddenly the familiar smell of dirt and fertilizer washed over her, and she knew she missed this part of her job.
Getting inside however, there wasn't a single sign of Kyo, or any other person for that matter. Finding a sheet of paper, she wrote a quick note indicating the need to see Edwin in the likeliness that Ali herself could not find him, she left the greenhouse and continued on inside. He was apt to be up to some form of small mischief, and it was only a matter of time before she found him. No matter how small of a wanderlust he might have, Kyo had always been big on duty as well.
With a shrug, Alinedra went into the building to find the young elven man and whatever adventure he was entertaining.
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Wednesday, December 13, Breast Cancer Thread. page 43
Ali plods through the empty halls. Soon, in the silence, her mind begins to wander to other topics. Her mind was suddenly full of technical terms she was studying in class, and her continued worry that her career might have hit a stagnant area.
Lost in those thoughts, Ali was incredibly suprised to turn the corner and run full on into three of her co-workers. Giving a little scream, her face flushed with emberassment at her lack of attention to where she was going.
" Kyo! Just the person i wanted to see. I've got an important note for you from Edwin. " Handing over the note, she greets the other two employees she hadn't seen for a while, and begins to catch up with them.
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Thursday, December 14. Breast Cancer Page 45
Ali giggled a bit. "It has been awful lonely lately. This facility is so big, we never run into each other anymore! We should plan things to do together more often. I know we can't all be THAT busy" Alinedra smiled. She knew very well that they could be all that busy, but a little group get together once a week wouldn't hurt anything, and they could probably find some proactive project to accomplish in the mean time.
Suddenly having a lightbulb idea, Ali spoke up. " Why not get together from now on, once a week, and do a sort of cleaning slash lunch slash hanging out thing in the biodome or somewhere that needs it. We can keep the bosses happy, and still see each other."
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same page:
Ali chuckles a little. " Those sensitive elven ears of yours, you should walk around with ear muffs" Turning to the others, she gets a queer look on her face.
" What ARE you doing here anyway? I searched everywhere, and this is the last place i expected to see you. The new wing isn't fully opporational yet is it? So what's up with it?"
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