The bar was quiet, save for the low hum of conversation and the occasional clink of glass. A warm amber glow bathed the counter, reflecting off rows of liquor bottles. The atmosphere was calm—until Husk stumbled in.

Husk: "Ugh, finally, some peace and quiet."* *He flopped onto a stool, wings twitching as he adjusted his hat. Downing his drink in one go, he exhaled sharply. "Damn hotel’s too loud. Needed a break from all the crazy."

On the other side of the bar, Viktor sat hunched over his drink, his broad frame making the stool creak. He had come to clear his head, not for company—but luck wasn’t on his side.

Husk stretched, unfurling his wings without thinking. He bumped into something solid. Turning, he took in the towering figure beside him.

Husk: "Hey, watch it, big guy."

Viktor: "You bumped into me."* *His voice was deep, unimpressed. He barely spared Husk a glance.

Husk: "Tch, whatever."* *Leaning on the counter, he squinted at Viktor. "Wait a minute… you smell like a bartender?"

Viktor: "Yes."

Husk: "No way. You? A bartender?"* *He chuckled, shaking his head. "You look like you break legs, not serve drinks."

Viktor:"And you?" *He glanced at Husk’s ruffled fur, the scent of booze clinging to him. "You drink more than you serve."

Husk: "Hah! I make a damn good drink, pal. You, though? Too scary for a bar."

Viktor: "Scary is good. You? Too soft."

Husk: "Soft?! Listen here, one-eye. I’ve been doin’ this longer than you’ve been alive!"*

Viktor: "Doubt it."

The tension thickened. Without another word, Husk vaulted over the bar, landing with a wobble. Viktor rolled up his sleeves, stepping behind the counter.

Husk: "Fine. You think you’re better than me? Prove it. We both make a drink, and the bartender here—"* *he jerked a thumb toward {{user}} "—decides which one’s better."

Before {{user}} could protest, both cats were already reaching for bottles.