The Travels of Claudia

[darrenfate]

OOC:

For Along Came Mary.

This thread is to chronicle the (hopefully) many travels of ACM's Claudia character. Please PM us if you have an idea for a character that fits.

Thanks - Darren

 

[darrenfate]

Hans Beckenbauer

The postcard perfect setting in Innsbruck Austria was breathtaking. Former host of the Winter Olympic games in 1964 and 1976, Innsbruck is on the western part of Austria that separates Germany from Italy.

http://www.robl.w1.com/pix-a/C000575.jpg

No wonder it attracted tourists by the score, who would come from all over Europe to see this city nestled among the Tyrolean Alps. It was also the home of a famous eatery; Buzihütte Berchtoldshofweg. The assistant chef there was a young man named Hans. Hans Beckenbauer. He had slowly worked through the long system that is the acknowledged apprenticeship since he was 17 years old. He had spent the first two years simply cutting vegetables and risen steadily through the ranks until he was a master at the bedlam of the kitchen in a fine restaurant. Twelve hour days melted into other twelve hour days as he perfected his craft. Dish by dish and inch by inch. Now approaching 32, Hans was restless.

Something was missing in his life. Steady girlfriends had been impossible to keep due to his working practically every night. Winds of change were in the air, Hans could feel it. This was the second to last night that the veritable place would be open, then it would close for renovations for an entire month. 30 days without responsibility and work. Unbelievable. And thrilling.

 

[Garland]

?????????

 

[along came mary]

Claudia

The blaring horn shocked Claudia Lopresti from her trance. The tall brunette hopped back from the curb just as the car speeded past. Her heart was racing but it had nothing to do with her near mishap. It would have taken an act of God to wipe the smile from her face. Innsbruck, Austria. It absolutely had to be one of the most beautiful places on earth. She could hardly believe she was actually here.

“Sie sollten lenken mehr Aufmerksamkeit auf, der Sie gehen, Fräulein.”

Claudia nodded at the kind faced gray haired lady that wandered past, a hint of embarrassment coloring her cheeks at the gentle chastisement.

“Ich Wille zukünftig, danke.” She murmured back in choppy German, her sight southern drawl adding an interesting twist to the words.

The woman merely smiled and continued on her way, chuckling softly underneath her breath. Obviously the Tyrolean folk had become accustomed to the many awe-stuck tourists that visited the imperial city.

Having just arrived in Innsbruck earlier in the day, Claudia had quickly checked into her hotel, the magnificent Hotel Europa Tyrol, or “Das Europa” as the locals liked to call it. Sure it had cost quite a bit, but seeing as how this was the first and most likely last trip to Innsbruck she would ever have the opportunity for, why not make the most of it?

The sun was setting behind the Alps, casting shadows across the twice past Olympic city. She had spent most of the day exploring the beautiful 13th century old town, mainly just wandering the streets, soaking in the atmosphere and reveling in the picture postcard views.

A group of people, laughing and seemingly in good humor, exited from an establishment to her left, causing a succulent scent to waft past her on the breeze. Claudia’s stomach rumbled in protest of its recent lack of attention. Her amber gaze drifted to the sign above, Buzihütte Berchtoldshofweg . She spared merely a moment of thought as to if she was dressed appropriately as she pushed the door open and entered the restaurant. Black slacks, lavender button-up with her favorite white cardigan tied loosely across her shoulders. She seriously doubted they’d throw her out. The group leaving earlier had been dressed just as casually.

Apparently it wasn’t a problem as she was seated right away at a small widow-side table allowing a lovely view. Per the waiter’s recommendation, Claudia sipped on Grüner Veltliner, a native dry white wine, enjoying the somewhat sharp, yet pleasantly refreshing bite of flavor. Removing her guide to Innsbruck from her shoulder bag, she flipped through it, ear-marking areas of interest as she patiently awaited her order of Jägerschnitzel.

 

[darrenfate]

Hans

Hans was in today by sheer luck. He had been told that the head chef could not make it back from his trip to Ventizia that day, and Hans would have to cover. He had in fact caught an earlier flight. So Hans was asked to meet the patrons, and get first hand feedback about the food.

Hans loved this part of the job, and he had all too rare chances to actually talk to the clients they served. He made his way on the rounds. Innsbruck, as in most of this part of Europe, was a real cultural crossroads. Hans flipped between German, Spanish, French and English as he walked from table to table as easily as you or I could change a hat.

He saw Claudia's profile first. She really was strikingly beautiful. The Innsbruck guidebook laid out before her, and the table set for one, told Hans a great deal. He saw the sommelier pour her a glass of the Grüner Veltliner and Hans nodded his head in silent approval. So the woman also has good taste. He had heard her order, and caught the subtle English overtones to her quite proper German.

"Guten Tag, Fraulein. Perhaps you would be more comfortable speaking English. I am Hans Beckenbauer the assistant chef here, and I welcome you to our restaurant.

Perhaps I could tell you of some of our special preparations today, or as I see you are a visitor to our lovely city, recommend some places that you simply must see during your stay here... "

 

[along came mary]

Claudia

Claudia’s attention had turned to the view outside the window, the bustling traffic and people that traversed the sidewalks of the street Berchtoldshofweg were eye-catching but the view of the Tyrolean Alps that loomed in not so far distance was absolutely awe inspiring.

A distinct masculine voice interrupted Claudia’s thoughts. "Guten Tag, Fraulein. Perhaps you would be more comfortable speaking English. I am Hans Beckenbauer the assistant chef here, and I welcome you to our restaurant.

Perhaps I could tell you of some of our special preparations today, or as I see you are a visitor to our lovely city, recommend some places that you simply must see during your stay here... "

Claudia smiled warmly up to him, her honey brown eyes sparkling with good humor.
“Guten Tag, Hans. May I call you Hans?” She queried politely, lifting her hand to him. Her smile widened considerably at his nod.

“I am Claudia Lopresti. Call me Claudia, please. Thank you for the kind welcome. I had a very difficult time deciding what to order. Everything sounds so scrumptious, and the wine… The wine is absolutely delicious. Please, have a seat and join me for a glass, that is if you have the time. I would very much appreciate any recommendations you could make.”

“I’ve only just arrived today and have yet to plan any sort of itinerary. Is there someplace in Innsbruck that is special to you? Someplace you might suggest I visit?”

 

[darrenfate]

Hans

Hans immediately warmed up to this beautiful mädchen. Her timing was impeccable and her offer to join her irresistable. With a florish, Hans gallantly said -

"Hans, please call me Hans. And I'd be honored to share your company. There are many places in Innsbruck that are special places. Some of them are well known, some are not.

He studied the brown eyed beauty with unabashed delight, as so many European men do. There was a livliness in her eyes that spoke of a spirit that Hans had not seen in many a month. She fascinated him. Hans continued on.

"For instance, the Tyrolis is a pleasant place, often frequented by tourists because of its beautiful venue. My personal favorite is the Hofgarten Cafe. It is a little edgier and hosts live musik every Mittwoch, er that is Wednesday night. That would be tonight. "

"Now, this place is not for everyone. I happen to love it. I happen to be free tonight if your would like some company...."

 

[along came mary]

Claudia

Claudia reveled in the attention provided from the charming gentleman now seated at her table. Her smile widened considerably at the bold way he regarded her, amused and yet flattered at the obvious approval and appreciation she found in his gaze.

"Now, this place is not for everyone. I happen to love it. I happen to be free tonight if your would like some company...."

Having the occasion to vacation in one of the most beautiful cities in the world was a gift in itself, but to have the chance to share in the company of a local resident, not to mention a handsome and charming resident, was an opportunity Claudia refused to resist.

“I would be most delighted!” Throwing caution to the wind, she enthusiastically accepted his offer. “Can we visit the Hofgarten Café? I adore music of all persuasions and would love to go!”

 

[darrenfate]

HANS

"Excellent!"

Hans had a strange feeling, almost as though he had waited many months for her answer, but he was very happy with the way things were ultimately working out!

"First, you must eat our fine food that would truly satisfy royalty for tonight dear Claudia you are the princess of Innsbruck. I should know, I help prepare it every day!"

"Things don't get started at the Hofgarten Cafe until 11 pm. So relax, and enjoy. This dinner is gratis. "

"Now may I recommend the Ahi tuna as an appetizer? It is served rare and has a delightful sauce with a hint of ginger root and sesami oil. It will melt in your mouth, the taste on your palate is ausgezeichnet. "

Hans continued, completely enamored by the beautiful Claudia.

"Lopresti. Such a beautiful Italian name. So where are you from Claudia Lopresti?"

And so the best night of Hans' life began ...