Chapter: Chapter 2: Pagan Baby
Panel 1: Daniel turns in his seat so he can gently play a few keys on the piano with his left hand. It seems easier for him to answer while looking at the piano. He explains, "I'm looking for work in my field, but until then, I could really use a job to tide me over. I've been playing the piano since I was a kid, and I used to sing in a band, so... I guess, this just seemed like a fun job to work at night while I look for something in the day." Elena still has her hands on her hips. This answer hasn't displeased her at all, and she smiles. Her dialogue balloon is cheerful, almost flower-shaped, like in manga. She answers, "Well, that's honest!"
Panel 2: The focus is now solely on Elena. We see her, framed by the empty piano bar behind her. The room seems much more spacious in daylight, with the sun coming in from the windows and all the wooden tables and chairs empty. Elena says, "Alright, so. I'm no musician, but I've been working here long enough that I know exactly what to look for in our pianists. Our crowds are right between raucous and refined, so I'm looking for a showman who can raise the energy if it's quiet, or bring it back down if things are getting too rowdy."
Panel 3: Elena lists the qualities she's looking for, counting them off on her fingers. "I want someone who shows up on time and won't complain if I ask them to clean tables at the end of the night. Someone who isn't gonna abuse drinks on the house."
Panel 4: Elena's smile is almost mischievous as she lists the final quality she's searching for: "But most of all..."
Panel 5: Daniel listens, his face neutral as Elena finishes, off-panel, "...I want someone who loves music."
Keeping Time
