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>>Siobahn, and her cooking [@Almalthia] Joel, over a Guiness. Paige, don't think they've met before [@Pilatus] Elise, fancy seeing her again [@KatKook] Milo, meeting him for the first time [@RoccanIronclad]
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Ryan had actually wandered over to the War Chest to dig for another beer to refresh himself while the other guests were coming in. The evening air, while cool and tinged with the smells of grilled meat and motor oil, did nothing for his thirst. Taking out another beer, Ryan twisted the top off and turned his attention back to the gathering crowd.

Joel refusing payment for his services was atypical, but expected. Ryan could already tell Joel is running the shop more from passion rather than a need for financial gainz. Ryan could respect a man like that, one who would work for passion more than money. Ryan, with his restaurant, is in the same light. His passion for cooking is what drives him. In all reality, if Ryan had another way to sustain himself, he'd be more than happy to make the food he makes and serve it to people who can appreciate it for free. He isn't quite there, but this evening is definitely shining some light on certain directions he can take his professional career.

Ryan offered the two newest guests a small nod as they arrived. When Joel called him 'iron chef' Ryan just chuckled. [color=00aeef]"You flatter me, Mr. Speed Racer. I'm just a humble cook, just like you're just a motorhead."[/color] Ryan hung back slightly as the rest of the interactions between all the attendees of the gathering unfolded. 

Ryan just chuckled when Milo spoke his piece on Vika. [color=00aeef]"Honestly, at this point I don't even really know anymore. To be honest, I might be taking an extended trip back to Japan soon. A bit of soul searching and that. Like Joel said, I'm a cook. It is a profession I take very seriously. And lately, I feel like my edges have dulled. I feel like I'm losing my inspirations. Taking a stroll down the morning market and basking in the sights and smells of it all no long excite me. At this point, if I [i] had [/i] to put a label on it, she is an acquaintance. I feel like I don't really know her to call her anything beyond that..."[/color] His voice trailed off. He shook his head inwardly as to shake off whatever feelings that are trying to sneak into his mind.

Also, for whatever odd reason, his attention seems to float towards Elise...