The Group Meeting

:Toni: So I'm supposed to put something here about myself? frowns in distaste I really don't know why I was told I had to join this, but ok.

I enjoy technology and people who can have intelligent conversations. If you don't know how to at least use a computer on the basic level please leave me alone.

rubs the bridge of her nose and pushes up the glasses she is wearing Oh, I have an AI named Val that stays with me at all times and provides whatever I need on my HUD. she says tapping her glasses

There are we done? Can I go now? I have things to do.

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:Toni: Looking around I see a few people have already arrived and it seems to only be getting worse. What the hell have I gotten myself into? Shaking my head I walk closer to the pool before sitting on the edge near the bar with confidence in my black and silver two piece. "Hey, can I get a angry orchard please?" I asked whomever was working the bar.

:Genni: I'm super happy to be so close to the ocean again, a big smile was on my face. Already a few people were in the pool area, but before hopping I'll go over to the bar for a quick drink. Striding over to the bar area, I take off my white lacey cover to reveal a black bikini with small ruffles on the edges. Picked a seat between two other girl's, I called out to the bartender, "A gin & tonic please?"

:Abney: "Cheers!" I bid the fellow Engineer and other girl who slid between us. It looked as if I wasn't the only one who needed to get through this with alcohol. I took another big swig, spotting Asher popping his head in. "Asher! Get that girl!" I call, never minding how shy the poor boy is, he's just too adorable for his own good.

:Genni: A smile held on my face as I watch the amusement of the students in the pool. "Ah, thank you," I say as I was handed my drink by the bartender. I take a sip and go back to people watching, thinking I'll probably join in soon after I finish.

:Toni: Raises an eyebrow looking at the other "engineer". Who the hell did she think she was? Shaking my head I try not to make a sound of disgust as someone else comes to sit uncomfortably close. Shifting the way I am sitting I half turn to look at them both. "So why did you guys agree to this?" I ask curiously. Turning slightly to take the drink that is offered from the bartender. "Thanks" I mention and salute him with the beer.

:Genni: My head turns to the girl next to me who does not look to be in a good mood at all. In fact, she was inching away on her seat. Was I some kind of bug? That's rather rude.. "I didn't agree to it, I was forced into it by the school," I answer to the annoyed girl. "Why did you??"

:Abney: I honestly didn't expect either of them to answer, let alone Toni. I don't think I hid the surprise well, clearing my throat a bit; the rum burned a bit more than it should have at that moment... I shrugged at Toni's question, glancing at her a moment. "I kinda got talked into it. 'It'll be fun!' they said. 'You'll have a blast!' they said. Liiies." I told honestly after the other girl.

:Toni:Frowning I shrug and give the new girl a beer salute as well. "Same here. I didn't agree with it. I was told I have too much attitude and they would help me "Find" someone." I do air quotes on the find as I speak. "I'm Toni. What's your name?" I ask curiously before looking to Abney. "You actually bought that load of bull? I haven't heard one good story from this school about the way they treat the students."

:Genni: My eyebrows raised as she answered and introduced herself. Her attitude towards myself did a 180, I always gotta tell myself to give people a chance. "I'm Genevieve, or Gennie if you prefer," I greet her and then follow her eyes to the girl on the other side of me. "She has a point. I'm still relatively new, but so far it hasn't been a great experience."

:Abney: I snorted, leaning my head back for a moment. The woman was right; I can't deny this. "I'm beginning to fuckin' notice." I grumble, taking another drink. "Hey I've only been here a month or so and my worst experience here was a forest coming to life to murder me. I didn't think a cruise could be turned into a bad thing but I am standing corrected!" I protested to both of the ladies, trying not to laugh. "I'm Abney." I mumbled, giving Asher a thumbs up as he looked over and laughed nervously.

:Toni:I look between the two and still feel annoyed as I look around at everyone, Val categorizing them and popping up names of the few we knew. "Now now. No need to be so vulgar with your language. I haven't been here much longer but I heard a story where they sent everyone to some random island. Made them fight each other and then some crazy dragon. I found a handful of records in the school archive." Shrugging I see someone else coming up close to the bar. Maybe it hadn't been the best idea to sit here after all. "So how many times have they switched out your roommates?" I'm was curious of if its just me that they were switching around so much, but gaging from their answers, they hadn't been here very long.

:Genni: I take another sip of my delicious drink as I listen to Toni talk about some past event that happened. Was it true that they sent the students to an island to fight each other? I wouldn't put it past them considering I was just fighting in another thing a few months ago. "Zero times so far, what about you two?" I respond as I take another sip and watch the students around the pool.

:Abney: I let the comment about my language slide, rolling my eyes. "I heard about them fighting one another. Brutal." I admitted freely, frowning at the thought. A girl came in, looking extremely uncomfortable and trying to curl in on herself practically. "None so far, excuse me." Abney said, loosing out to the urge to help the kid. Maybe it was the alcohol. I made my way to her, grabbing her by the arm gently. "Come over here, yeah?" I told softly, rum probably staining my breath but I didn't care. I guided her to the opposite side of Toni, since she hated people, stripping out of my romper easily and handing it over. "Might be big but... it'll help." I offered, thankful I hadn't ditched my tank top and bikinni bottoms. I took my seat again, offering her some rum as a gesture.

:Hebi: I gasped a little as a strange woman came up and took my arm. She pulled me to the bar and actually offered me some clothes. Why was she being nice? Oh fuck it, I need these clothes. "Thank you." I say as he happily and quickly put the romper on,"Oh that's so much better."I say with a soft and muffled giggle from behind my mask. And now she's offered me some rum. Rather weak compared to what I've had, but oh well. "Thank you again." I add as I carefully pull my mask off, my red eyes glowing softly as he take the rum and sip at it,"Weaker than what I'm used to...but more flavorful." I say with a delicate smile,"I'm Hebi."

:Genni: As I noticed that Toni had left to occupy herself with something else and it seemed that Abney was more interested in conversing with the girl she brought over who was super nervous. I chug down the rest of my drink, leave the empty glass on the table and step out of the seat. Though I almost topple over because the alcohol finally kicked in. "Wow, I haven't had a drink in a while," I talk to myself and shake my head.

:Toni: Taking the next beer I look around as I sit at the pool side. It was generally more fun to just watch everyone. I didn't want to intrude on their conversations, that would just be awkward.

:Abney: I am completely bored. So bored. And I, apparently, can't put down as many taco's as I could before. Glancing around, I noted the fellow Enginner kinda hidden away at the pool side and I scrunched my nose. Eh she probably hates me but whatever! I grabbed the box with the few taco's left over and went over, smiling. "Hey - you like taco's? I couldn't finish 'em and... yeah." Oh god I'm so awkward. So very awkward. Completely awkward.

:Abney: I blinked a moment and then laughed, it sounded almost apologetic. Oh god I am still so awkward. "Ah she wandered off. I stayed at the bar, of course." I brushed off, giving a smile. "Is - is that seat taken?" I asked, motioning to the seat next to her. Making friends was the whole point of this, other than finding a date, of course.

:Toni:Smiling faintly I shrug. "It is if you want to sit there. Thanks for the Tacos." Picking up one I start to eat trying not to get the taco everywhere. There seemed to be a lot more girls here. "I wonder if this is primarily going to be chicks? I've seen a couple guys but not many at all."

:Abney: I smiled a bit and plopped into the seat, getting comfortable. "Yeah - no problem. Taco's are good with alcohol or so I've learned." I left out the part where I downed all the rum I had. Though Toni bought up a damn good point; "I noticed that!" I agreed a bit quickly, just as confused. "I wonder if they're not hitting it off with their roomies or they assume everyone swings both ways," I hoped they didn't assume such things but...

:Toni:I smile faintly as the lady sits down next to me. "You're right. They are good." I comment after swallowing the bite I had taken. I nod when the girl agrees with my comment. It is strange that there aren't many people here, and at least one I had hoped to see didn't seem to be around. Shrugging to myself I dig into the next taco when she mentioned the people not hitting it off with their roomies or everyone swinging both ways. "I hope they don't think everyone swings both ways. I mean while you are nice on the eyes, don't get me wrong. I just prefer men." Man this was getting awkward. Looking around the pool I did see more men but not by a lot.

:Toni: Grumbling softly to myself I was about to continue the conversation with Abney when I spot a familiar face. "Seigmond!" Lifting a hand I wave happily to get his attention. Why was he standing so far away instead of near the pool? As an afterthought I realized how stupid of a question I had just asked myself.

:Sieg: my sensors soon picked up movement gesturing in my general direction, which quickly drew my attention. It seemed Toni and Abney were conversing with each other, and analyzing the expression on Toni's face, she was experiencing joy from seeing me. Odd. As I approached, I wave to both of them. "Greetings Abney and Toni. Tell me, what is the primary function of this communal bath if nobody is actually bathing?"

:Abney: Toni held her laugh back, I didn't; I gave a little giggle. "It's also used as a place to cool down if it's hot, or to heat up with it's cold - basically they use the water to relax." I added to Toni's explanation, giving a nod. After that - I felt it was a pretty good idea to quit talking and let Toni do the talking. I kinda wish I kept drinking my rum... Too late now, I'm in this as sober as I can get.

:Sieg: honestly this concept of enjoying the water sounded like torture to me. "If thats the case.. Then why call the attire for this bathing suits? It sounds highly illogical." Then again, most of the organic ways were strange. Not eating when they were hungry to 'lose weight' and the like.

Hearing Toni ask why I wasn't working, I shrugged. "I'm a contestant in this show. I assume you both are competitors as well? Would make logical sense, as the biological nature of organic life is to find a mate and reproduce."

:Toni: I chuckle as he asks about the name for our clothing. ”because in some cultures they do utilize communal bathing houses and people will also wear these there instead of walking around naked.” waving a hand at the seats near us but not horribly close to the water I look him over. And ask curiously. ”does your flame not have a seal to protect it from water?” turning to look at Abney I ask her, ”you know a bit more about this kind of spellwork don’t you? Why would they have built him with such a flaw?” this is mind boggling for me and I can’t for the life of me understand why they would build him with something that was such a drawback? Crossing my arms over my minor chest I think about it tilting my head as I look at the water. Val speaks up in my ear. why not build something to encase the power source? Would he had already shown us his core before. Would he grant us access again?” it was a gamble and it would be asking him a lot. He would have to trust her quite a bit to allow her to adjust his design. Biting her bottom lip she almost fell into the pool when he said he was a contestant on the show. Blushing at the memory of him opening up his core to her popped to mind. Even though he hadn’t meant it in any other way besides just showing it to her....her brain was trying to make something out of it. Clearing her throat she shook herself before seeming confused and asked her question. ”wait.... are you able to reproduce with other life forms?” she hadn’t looked at that portion of his programming and she wasn’t sure if she wanted to but if he could and she was able to duplicate his design!!! That would mean she would be able to give Val a completely normal human life! The sheer idea of this made her ecstatic and she wanted to find out more. However it probably came across as her just being excited that he could reproduce....

:Abney: I blinked at Toni, registering what she asked for a moment. By Odin's fluffy beard - she wanted my opinion; holy Thor this was a miracle. The question finally registered and I looked at Seigmund. Thoughts rattled through my brain as I continued to stare, but my face probably looked dazed and not like I was checking him out hardcore. Possibilities narrowed down to just a few; but the most obvious answer, to me, was very... odd. "Hmm." I made the sound, chewing on my thumbnail for a moment before giving a shrug after a moment or two. "Two best conclusions I can think of is - wherever he was from before, he had zero chance of encountering water where he worked or served or whatever. Which is the least likely one since I'd protect it anyway if I was his builder. Weather and shit can be unpredictable. The most likely conclusion is that... wherever he's from, they had no need to protect it 'cus... there probably was no water. That's the only thing I can think of. Why protect something against a threat that doesn't exist?" I mused out loud, giving a soft shrug. The last one was the most obvious one and if it was the case - then Seigmund probably lived a life without many humans around. I made a note to offer warding's to help protect him later, but Toni would probably do the same. Toni then completely switched tracks to his 'reproduction' and I snorted softly to myself in amusement, tuning out that part of the conversation.

:Sieg: factoring in Toni's response, it made logical sense to hold onto a name for such attire. Hearing them discuss my design however was.. Curious. I was about to speak up about my design, or what I had analyzed on my own terms, when Abney brought forth the conclusions. "Indeed, the planet I originate from is scarce of water sources. Small pools are all that litter the surface." They were both intelligent individuals after all. "However, the access ports on my limbs are built to allow air flow into my core. Flooding is I'll advised.

Toni seemed to... Light up at the potential of me being able to reproduce. How do I break it to her I cannot? Abney seemed to tune out this information, calculations indicating this could be a sour topic for her. "Toni.. I am a Golem. I have no functions for such things.... That I'm aware of."

Heading for the table gestured towards, I sat down with the ladies. "So.. What does this 'dating entertainment' entitle? Do either of you have your eyes set upon any individuals? I could provide service towards your endeavors with at least sixty percent efficiency." Normally eould be higher, but who were they gunning for?

:Toni: Watching Abney look at Seigmund the way she was I narrowed my eyes. It didn’t take that much looking did it? Listening to her conclusions I honestly felt rather stupid for even asking her for her input. Of course there would still be threats.... pouting slightly I just let it go. Hearing Sieg continue to go on in his normal flat tone that he could not reproduce I could feel a sour mood settling in. ”Well if you can’t reproduce what’s the point of you finding a mate? I’ve never met a Golem besides you. So please forgive my obvious ignorance.” the last part I know I said with a bit of a sarcastic tone but I really just wanted to understand. Not to mention this was a bucket of ice water on my hope to give Val something important. I was honestly about to just excuse myself from this embarrassing moment when Seigmund asked his questions about the dating ‘entertainment’ staring at him more then a little confused I reach for my bottle of beer and chug the rest of it. Yeah ..... this isn’t going to be enough. Setting the bottle down on the counter near me I knock for a new one. ”typically dating means going out on dates to get to know the other people.” reaching up I run the back of my head as I look around. ”and I have an idea but you are supposed to be worrying about yourself as well.” seeing another guy walk up to the bar I wave just to be friendly and hope that the other two won’t push who I had in mind.

:Abney: Honestly - I was just kinda glad I nailed the observance about his home planet. I was so curious, but that was a normal reaction; of course I wanted to know about his home and dissect from here until kingdom come until I understood but that was another conversation for a way different time. "I'd avoid water at all costs then, Seig," I said, humor lacing my tone with a smile. Although he completely dashed Toni's hopes of anything to do with reproduction, I almost felt bad for her with the way he just flat out said it in a 'duh' kind of way. Toni explained the dating aspect and I nodded in agreement; people and their need for companionship. His question was answered vaguely by Toni and I just shook my head after her. "I was told I'd have fun. I'd rather not date my student's y'know?" I answered honestly, snorting at the idea and giving a kind nod to the new guy. I was good with who I was already roomed with but I was not about to voice that and give gasoline to a potential fire. "Can I get a shot of rum? Please and thank you." I all but whispered to the bartender.

:Sieg: though they were both being good company, it seemed something was going on between them. Perhaps.. They were falling for each other? If that was the case, I would offer to help them out. Toni questioned my inclusion into this show, to which I pondered myself. "For companionship. For a purpose. That at least was my primary reasoning for joining." Pausing, I wondered if explaining further would be needed. "Along with.. I believe there is more to my design that requires another to figure out." Reaching out my hand, one of the bartenders handed me a large pitcher of alcohol. My standard shotgun mix, a concoction of nearly empty bottles added together.

Taking a swig of my drink, my sensors notice the girls waving to another individual. A male student.. One I haven't met yet. Something seemed to add an extra flame inside my core, as I chug my drink. "Well, Abney, Toni, you both claim this event is to get to know people correct? Then I desire to learn more." Standing up, I walk towards the pool. "I've heard of this step called a Cannonball. I wish to experience it. Will you join me?"

:Arty: finally getting my drink, I was about to take a sip when someone waving caught my attention. Was someone saying hi to me? Looking over to a table 2 ladies and a man, I saw the girls waving to me. I smiled and waved back, considering joining them, when another individual spoke directly to me about my drink. Boy people were really talking to me! "Oh no, its a non-alcoholic drink, but it makes me feel fancy ordering it haha." I laughed, taking a sip.

It seemed rude to not introduce myself. "Artorias Lindenbolt." I spoke, holding out my hand to Jaiden.

:Abney: I went to down my shot, trying not to choke on it as Seigmund spoke. I, of course, would totally be willing to learn more about how Seigmund functioned but, again, I'd rather not voice those opinions. I can picture Toni trying to strangle me. Seigmund got his own drink and everything was quiet for a moment... until he went to the pool. Then I choked on my rum. "Seig! Seig honey, your core isn't protected!" I tried to reason, rushing after him with the core intent to stop him. Attempting to figure out how to resurrect a golem wasn't entirely on my list of things to do for this event.

:Toni: I wasn’t really expecting Seigmunds answer but at the same time it made sense. I just didn’t voice that he already had a purpose and that someone did need him. Well even if he chose someone else I could always find a way to get most of the information if he allowed me. It pained me to think Val May be stuck as an AI if I couldn’t figure out how he worked. It wasn’t lost on me that Abney had said she didn’t date her students. Which meant they were both staff level. This in itself was also enough to make me feel out of my league... didn’t mean I would give up... I just didn’t like the odds. ”I think we all feel like that sometimes Sieg.” I salute him with my beer before frowning and downing over half the bottle before I heard his request to do a cannonball. I blinked for a moment trying to process his request and Abney beat me to it. The warning she gave him was fine but would it be enough?? Standing up I move to block his path to the pool. ”a cannonball is where a person will curl into a fetal position while jumping into the water Seig. I feel like you just told us you wanted to die.”

:Hebi: I nodded and smiled softly at her excitement over her powers,"Kind of. I'm not very good at it since I'm not a fully realized Oni yet. But I can do this."I said as I held my hand out and blew into it, sending a small amount of snow into the air,"I mostly work with rain, wind, and fog. Little bit of lightning."I said before I saw Abney again. "Uhm...hey I'll catch up with you guys later..."I said as he slowly stood and started making my way to Abney. I tried to walk a little sexy towards her...but here's the thing...I don't know how to walk like that. I ended up tripping just as I reached her and went flying into the pool, sending water flying towards this guy who was with her. When I got my head back above water I noticed some discomfort on the man's face and I went wide eyed. The only thing the went through my mind was that I hurt someone again. I shoved my mask on my fave and started hyperventilating,"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry!"I repeated as I held my mask to my face to hide the fear on my face and the tears coming from my eyes.

:Sieg: Something inside me told me that jumping into the water, making a scene, was a perfectly logical protocol to do. Was it seeing both Abney and Toni acknowledge another individual? Was this a form of jealousy? Whatever it was, I wasn't prepared to deal with it. Taking those few definitive steps towards the pool, I could hear them both trying to stop me. Which... seemed to work? another individual fell into the pool, and as a large splash of water careened into me, I stopped.

Boosh! a big cloud of steam erupted off me, as I froze in place. The level of heat in my core began to escalate, causing everything to heat up around me. I was about to speak, when suddenly I just.. fell backwards with a THUD.

:Toni: Seeing the girl trip into the pool out of the corner of my eye I really didn't have any time to react as water splashed all over Seigmund and myself. Hearing a loud whoosh I felt the hot steam curl around me as well as the temperature escalating. With a cry of surprise and pain I throw up my arms in front of me triggering my suit. Like I would seriously go anywhere without it. Coughing inside of it I turn to see the girl apologizing profusely putting a mask over her face. I don't even bother acknowledging her presence with a response when I hear the THUD. Shifting I see Seigmund laying on the ground. Immediately Val starts scanning him comparing it to the data she has on file. Immediately kneeling down next to him I move his shirt out of the way of his chest and press above his heart like he had shown me. Popping open his core I look inside and find that it is wet but not saturated. Cursing under my breath I keep a hand just below the opening thinking rapidly, trying not to wish my armor wasn't in the way of feeling the synthetic skin beneath it. I had no use for a flame thrower in my suit and while I can produce plasma beams and lasers I can't produce flame.

Looking up at Abney I grimmace under my face shield. Good thing she can't see it. "Abney, make some flame and direct it to his core. We should dry it out and he can handle the higher temperatures. I can't make flames." I hated asking her for help and not being able to help my one friend here at this blasted school did not sit well with me.

Standing I turn and look down at the girl. "Do you realize you could have reset him? Be more careful you klutz." Toni growled out trying really hard not to just blast the girl into oblivion.

:Abney: Seigmund stopped, but he looked so confused but I didn't care - he stopped. And then, splash, whoosh and thud. Everything happened quickly, steam choking me instantly and the coughing started. Seigmund is on the floor; pure panic was flashing within me, Hebi was apologizing, Toni was on him in a second. I had to take a breath, seeing Hebi panic grounded me slightly; "It - you're - It's fine sweetie - you didn't know!" I tried, but she just kept babbling her apologies. The opening of his core caught my attention and I stared, holding my arms, unsure what to do to help; I just wanted to help. This is my first friend, and I couldn't do anything.

Then Toni reminded me I was a witch; but I was also a witch without a focus and had little to no time to dig one out. "I - I... b-book... F-focus" I mumbled out; years of combat experience hadn't trained me for this! Toni wouldn't know what the fuck I was talking about. Terror rushed through me; I hadn't done spells without a focus since I was a kid. DO SOMETHING! my brain screamed; well - no time like the damn present! I knelt next to the golem I considered a friend, holding my hands out in front of me; whispered words, foreign to most ears, and suddenly - flames were dancing around me. Balls of flames circled around and danced in the air, but I kept reminding myself that I had to control this, I had to focus. Gripping my fingers, the flames stopped dancing, rushing to my hands and I directed them into my friend's core; and I pushed what power I could while gripping every ounce of control I had over this wild ability. Then Toni started the typical reaction of a woman in love who's person got hurt. "Toni; she didn't know. This is an accident. Hebi, get behind me." I tried, attempting to diffuse the situation and put myself between her and Toni. It wasn't like I could physically hold Toni back if she rushed to hurt the kid. My hands were kind of in my friend's chest. But I was also putting bets on the fact's that Toni didn't want to jump across the Golem and not while fire had a mind of it's own beneath my fingers. The flames started to wiggle again and I grumbled to myself; "Control, control..." I reminded myself out loud in a whisper.

:Hebi: I quickoy darted behind Abney, still trying to hide my fear until I saw that Abney was struggling to conjure a flame. I heard her said Focus and I quickly took my mask off and held it out for Abney,"W-will this work...I didn't mean to hurt your friend...I'm sorry...I'm so sorry..."I said in between sobs. I glanced at Toni and all I felt from her was rage. Rage enough to start a fire within me. The chaos was calling my name but no...no I couldn't. I swore I'd never be a monster again.

:Sieg: Everything was blank. Then suddenly all I heard was yelling. Eyes lighting up, I blink several times, looking from Abney to Toni. "Greetings, is there a reason both of you are inserting your hands into my chest cavity?" Not that it bothered me.

:Toni: Blinking I look down as Seig wakes up and talks. Breathing a sigh of relief I kneel back down and look at Abney. "Thanks" She had been the one who saved him and it burned me on so many levels. I would have to program the nanites to be able to produce flame later on. Looking back down at Seig I smile behind my mask before it slides back revealing my face. "See. We told you to stay away from the pool. You could have reset."

:Abney: Hebi offered a focus and I gave her a grateful smile; "Thank you but I don't think it's wise for me to stop in the middle. It's alright." I assured, still smiling at her. Seig's voice drew my attention back and I grinned at him. "My bad bro, you were just almost dying," I joked, giving a nod to Toni as she thanked me. The flames stopped and I pulled my arms back, falling back into silence.

:Hebi: I nodded and returned her smile with a small, if unsure one, of my own. When the man I accidentally hurt woke up and made sure I used my wind to quickly blast the water off me and went to his side,"I am so sorry sir...I was...I was just..."I stammered. How the hell was I gonna explain I was trying to get Abneys attention with that? Well I didn't explain it. I dropped it. "It doesn't matter...I'm just glad I didn't seriously harm you..."I said before I looked at Toni,"I'm so sorry...I hate hurting people...I'd never do it on purpose..."

:Sieg: "My sensors indicate my processors went into emergency hibernation.. How long was I out?" I look to both Abney and Toni, before Hebi began to apologize. "Don't fret, there was no harm done. Reset still had 23 hours, 54 minutes, and 12 seconds before activating."

:Toni: I look up at Seig as he asks how long he had been out and then immediately turns around and tells the one who almost killed him that it was ok and that his reset had so long before happening..... "Seigmund if you know how long your reset had until happening.... You know how long you were out...." exasperated I toss up my hands letting my armor go back to it's hibernation mode as bracelets on my wrists, anklets, and a choker. Hissing softly I look down at patches of light red skin on my arms. Great... Light burns from the steam. Shrugging I shake my head. I felt like maybe it was time I moved on to talk to others but I did want to make sure that Seig would be ok.

:Abney: I gave a soft laugh to his silly question, nudging Hebi a bit with an assuring smile. "All good," the witch followed up with assurances. Toni's hiss of pain made me look over, noting the burns from the steam almost immediately. Oh crap. "Oh - I could patch you up, if you want?" They didn't look horrible but merely uncomfortable.

:Hebi: I nodded to Abney and smiled a little more,"I'm glad he's okay."I said before I saw the other woman and the red marks from all the steam on her. My smile turned into a frown again,"i'm sorry..."I said meekly. Frankly this woman terrified me, the look in her eyes was enough to make the beast want to come out play.

:Sieg: Blinking, I looked to Toni. "Did I say the amount of time? My apologies for such a blunder.." Though as I heard Abney address Toni's burns from my blunder, I wondered if maybe I should step aside. "I'm.. unsure how to process the last few events I have been a part of. If you three will excuse me." Standing, I brushed myself off, giving a nod to Hebi who was still apologizing. Venturing off, I went to the far side of the pool, sitting alone. Here I couldn't hurt anyone.

:Gin: I arrive in a swirly of purple flowers and lights. "Gooday you wonderful attendees! I sure hope you're making the most of your time, because who knows when the next will come! There has been a bit of confusion and a wonderful suggestion was made! As such, you will all find there is now a bracket, visible on your person. A black bracelet means you are straight and narrow. White means you dont mind either gender! Grey, has been selected for a, "I dont care and other" type of situation if that applies to you. Go on see what others may have. This will make who to approach easier! Thank you Emelia, please continue on" I give a bow before exiting stage right.

:Toni: I look between Abey and the young girl who was trying to hide behind her. Frankly I didn't care and at Abney's suggestion that she 'patch me up' I just shake my head. It wasn't really worth it to have her worry about such light burns. Looking to the girl as she apologized again I give her an annoyed look I know. Frankly I didn't care if she was sorry. "Just learn from your mistakes and don't mess up again." was the best I could do.

Looking up at Seig as he questioned if he had mentioned the amount of time I just stare at him. He had said exactly how much time was left until his reset. Since he knew how long a reset would take just subtract what was left and you had how long he was out..... My brain hurts from such confusion. Watching him walk off I frown and sigh heavily. I can feel my shoulders sagging slightly.

And then flowers... flowers fucking everywhere.... and the weird guy that talks too much is saying something about bracelets? Looking down at my wrist I now see a black bracelet along side the bracelet housing my nanites. Confused I look around seeing a few others with bracelets like mine while others had the colors he mentioned.

I need another beer....

:Abney: I shrugged at Toni's denial and was really, really glad she didn't attack Hebi. I snorted softly at Seigmund's antics before a swirl of purple flowers and lights came about and now I was wearing a bracelet. A pretty white bracelet; nice. I had the same need for alcohol, getting up and heading to the bar and making my way behind it. A lovely rum bottle was in my hand, another bartender shouting at me; "Hey - I need ID. Hey - you need to be an adult!" I laughed loudly, holding the bottle up and stalking to a corner. "I am an adult!" I shouted over my shoulder before finding a nice table to sit at and proceed to drink out of the bottle again.

:Toni: Looking around with a beer in hand I feel very awkward. This is so much different than what she was used to. Seeing Seig off on his own I think to give him his space. I know he didn't mean to hurt me but it still happened.

Glancing around more I see at least one other person I know. Arika. Surprise to see her I decide to go over to her group and say hello. Trying not to be so awkward I walk up beside her and speak up in a somewhat friendly voice. "Hello Arika. Nice to see someone else I know."

:Arika: "As far as I can tell, alcohol doesn't affect me." I say, responding to Luke. "I think it's because I don't have the same...balance organs in the ear, or whatever. It might just change my coloration a little bit. But, perhaps another drink or two might help figure that out. So, sure, I'll take you up on the offer for a drink." I nod to Genni as well, agreeing. Shortly after that, I hear another voice speak up, and look to its source. "Oh, hey, Toni." I give the newcomer a smile, and stand up. "Yeah, nice to see you as well. Having fun?"

:Luke: Two drinks, coming right up! -Flashing a smile to Gennie and Arika, I stand up to retrieve them, pausing to speak to a nearby girl. Drinks cost me nothing, but it seems effective enough to retrieve them for others.- A while? Oh no! I think this is... my fourth day? It seems I slept for a whole month, ha, right after all that crazy fog stuff happened. -Tsking my tongue, I shake my head at the thoughts- "Although I guess you wouldn't know about that if you've only been here a few days, that would be for the best." -I chuckle lightly as she introduces herself a second time- "Actually, I think I was the one being rude! I'm Luke, and one non-alcoholic drink coming up. -I give a playful wink. I've never understood winks, but normies seem to see them as flirty or playful. I let her pick whichever, shaking her hand before I go to get the drinks. While I'm picking them up, I notice another new comer to the group, so I grab a beer for her, my hands are quiet full coming back, but it isn't a big deal- "Fooor Arika, this one here for you Gennie, a soda for Lula, an adventurous flavor, hopefully you'll like it, aaand, a beer for...?" -I hand out each drink while speaking, pausing as I hold a beer to the dark haired girl.-

:Lula: i chose to help him with the drinks. Knowing it was quite a handful for one person to carry a load "A Whole month? wow t hats a long time for anyone to sleep, unless you are a vampire then thats just a nap, sometimes they can sleep for Centuries...mm yes the fog i was there for that, my fear manifested itself and ugh.. it was horrible" he gave a playful wink but it appeared somewhat wooden, how can i describe it , it felt like he was doing something that appeared to be totally unnatural , seeing his struggle it was nice that i was helping by lessening his load , his handshake was strong and confident " here let me help" i offered, he had gotten me an adventurous soda i had no idea what that meant but i trusted i was not about to be poisoned " i trust you have tried it before?" i would ask as we joined the group

:Toni:Smirking at Arika I shrug and look at the others in the group. I'm not completely sure if I've met all of them but thankfully Val pulls up the files we pilfered from the mainframe of the school. Matching their faces with their files she was able to tell me who they all were.

Seeing a gentleman come back from getting drinks and handing them out I don't expect one for me but when he goes to hand me one I stare at it for a moment before taking the beer and essentially double fisting beers. "Thank you. I could use a refill. I'm Toni." I couldn't quite tell what the conversation was about just yet and I felt almost like I was interrupting but I needed to meet more people in this game.

:Genni: I look to the side as I hear a new voice and see a girl come up to our small group and greet the water elemental, which I now know whose name is Arika. "Oh! I remember you.. I met you from before I think," I exclaimed to Toni as I recognized the girl. Though mostly what I remember was her and Abney not getting along. Shortly after, Luke came back with many drinks in his hands- I almost wanted to spring up and help him, but the other girl he began talking to made it there before me. Somehow I felt a twinge of something in me, but unsure what it was- perhaps I just needed that extra drink. I carefully took the drink he handed to me, "Thaaaaank you!" I take a sip of my new drink, whatever it was that he got me, and turned my head to look at all the girl's now who've joined the group. "So, uhm, how are you fairing out Toni?" I wasn't really sure what to say to any of them, somehow the group kind of split into two conversations.

:Toni: Realizing I hadn't answered Arika and then hearing the other girl say she remembered me I got a full look at her. They both asked the same question essentially. "I'm ok. Ran into a bit of a problem with some steam but I'm alright. Needed to find new people to talk to." I laugh softly before taking a swig of my original drink.

:Arika: "Thanks!" I say, more jovially than before when Luke comes back with the drinks. I take it, and sip from it for a moment. While he was gone, I didn't even notice his wink, not quite accustomed to those kind of flirtatious advances. It's only then that I notice the new bracelet on my wrist, not minding it much. I then relax a bit, as the others were talking to one another now, and paying me a bit less mind. However, then, Toni speaks up again. "Steam? What were you doing in a steamy room?" I laugh for a moment, before taking another sip. "Well, we didn't get much of a chance to talk during the festival thing. But, well, looks like we have some time now." I also give Lula a little wave, not knowing what else to say on that matter.

:Luke: ”Oh, so you were here the month as well!” -The way she’d spoken, I hadn’t thought so- ”Yea that fog was… no fun, neither was my mini coma, but at least I don’t recall the later.” -I sound slightly frustrated, but also ready to move past it- ”Thaannk you.” -I smile warmly at Lula as she helps with a few of the drinks, we return to the group.- ”Hey, my pleasure.” -I speak to the girls as they each thank me for the drink I hand them. Gennie had another of whatever she had, Arika, another suggestion from the bartender, Toni a beer like she had, and Arika, an Star Anise, Greek soda.- ”Aaa, noo, I have to admit I haven’t tried that soda, but something about you screams adventurous. Want me to try it first?” -I ask Lula casually, holding my hand out in case she wants to hand it to me while the others talk a bit. It doesn’t go over my head that I am the only eligible ‘interest’ in this group for everyone else.-

:Lula: I enjoyed helping. The smile on my face as i helped with the drinks was warm and friendly, the lady with the Green hair seemed slightly disgruntled maybe being on this cruise was effecting everyone? even my attentions seemed divided as i gave brief glimpses towards luca as it appeared he had the mingling down to pat like some K-pop superstar with his small posse of fans, my attentions would be quick to return to Luke who was kind enough to involve me in his group of fine looking people. I couldn't however deny that i felt awkward standing there for gods no reason why " you aren't going to try the indirect kiss ploy are you?" i playfully ribbed as i offered up my can to give him a taste of adventure, weas the air around me getting cold? I would wave to a woman of water, that was pretty amazing to see and i could see right through them in their trnaslucent mould " wow there are so many unique and beautiful people on this cruise!" i beamed and looked over to the rest of the group " Lula" i spoke out my name again for those who didn't know me as i attempted to show some kind of interest in them all although deep down i was kinda green eyes by the sheer volume of people showing an interest in luca, which when he was undergoing a little trouble with the blue haired punk " good heavens and praise be to satan, have you seen what going on over there? looks like things are just about to get confrontational.."

:Genni: I slightly fiddled with the drink in my hand, sipping at it slowly as I listened to Toni's answer. "Are you talking about a sauna?" I asked after Arika's joke about a steamy room, not really adding in the humor. I was beginning to think I wasn't so good with obvious jokes. I tried listening in on both conversation between the five of us, sort of turning my head back and forth for full vision. As I hear Lula make some kind of joke about Luke offering to try the drink first, I roll my eyes at the girl who seemed very flirtatious. My finger rubbed on the rim of the clear glass and I leaned back in my chair, my head was starting to hurt. Maybe I should take it easy on the drinks, standing up was going to be the literal fall of me. My head quickly turned to where Lula was talking about, out of interest, but maybe a little to quickly as things spun a little. Good thing I was already sitting down, I rested my head on one of my hands as my eyes peered out to a group of people who looked like they were going to fight.

:Luke: -Indirect kiss? Do normies actually care about things like that?- "Hahaha, no no, I can pour it into another cup if that makes you more comfortable. Was I a little off the mark with 'adventurous?'" -I muse playfully and a bit teasingly. Depending on her answer, I either pour the soda in a cup to taste it, or try it from the bottle before handing it back to her.- "Mmm, I'm going to go with 'unique' for the flavor. That ones going to be an aquired taste. Lets see if my soda picking skills are any good hmm?" -I motion for her to try it, egging her on playfully now that she might be a little worried about the flavor. Personally, I don't care much for food and drinks so the statement is true anyhow.- "Hmm?" -I turn to look at what Lula had called the groups attention to. A dude with a camera and a dude with wings. It doesn't look like much to me. The normie with the camera doesn't look like he is being agressive and the one with wings looks defensive. Normies really like spectacle though.- "Do you think that annoucer guy will step in?" -The movement of Gennie next to me calls my attention. Looks like maybe she's had a little much as she's resting her head on her hand.- "You ok? Should I trade the rest of that out for somewater?" -I ask her quietly, motioning to the second drink I'd brought her.-

:Lula: I looked at Luke breifly to respond to him " oh i'm comfortable" i would offer the bottle to him to give him a taste of adventure, wehen he handed it back i chuckled, as he motions me to now try i would take a sip but my attwentions are upon the confrontation and i would tutt, it would appear on that occasion Luca was being the douche in that he was the offensive one , she knew Asher all too well to know how much of a yellow belly he was... but for now i felt like i should have consoled the blue haired guy, he seemed pretty cool with his rage and middle finger salutes, even with his rage it was adorable, like i unno the beast from a disney film or the like? anyhow Luca had sorta lost brownie points from me there. When Luke asked if the Announcer would interveane i was more than certain that was what would happen, not to mention i would be interveaning enough to be the scary needle point fanged beast . Looking to Luke i offered up my drink i didn't dislike it but right now i had lost my thirst for that kind of beverage " Tastes good though if you don't mind i think this lovely lady here deserves it more than i do, perhaps they will sober up? handing Luke the drink i would saunter with and agressiveness to Confront Luca " What in the nine gates of Hell was that!?" i would say it was clear that i was annoyed with him " i mean defend a friend and all or whatever i don't give a shit if you used me.. but isnt an Angel , err Nephilim meant to show equality ! you stupid douche he didn't do fuck all till you ripped him a new one! you should be damned ashamed now when he returns if he returns you are going to fucking grovel you hear? (Cont)

i will not have your egocentric attitude spoil this damn cruise, you are not above anyone all you have done is show me how shallow you are!.. soo so uhm i guess what i am saying is change your damned ways or i'll rip it off, cause if you want a piece of this !--" i would say indicating myself " you have a hell of a lot to learn about rock and roll.. do onto others shit head...!"** i would then take myself to the Interveiw room

:Toni: Looking at everyone in the group I stayed quiet as I drank my beer. What the ever living fuck was wrong with everyone? Did I really want to stay in this group? Hearing Arika and Gennie's questions about the steam I shake my head before looking around and spotting Seig. Point at him I speak up. "That guy has a heat furnace inside of him. Some water splashed on him and it immediately turned to steam. I was standing close enough that I was burned by it. It's more like a sun burn... So I'll be alright."

:Genni: I squinted at the small group that Lula was concerned about, couldn't really hear them from where I was sitting though. Looking up at Luka, the sun seems too bright in my eyes now, "Uhm, yeah- I think should stop drinking for now." I slowly hand my drink over to him, but then hear that Lula was offering her drink to me. "I'll have to pass, I've had that soda before and I have to say I didn't like it, I held up my hand and paused before I spoke again. "Thank you though." After she handed her drink to Luke though, Lula had stomped off towards the group. I was expecting her to slap to the boy's or something. My eyebrows raised and I was actually quite amused by the drama. Nothing else was exciting was going on at least. My focus momentarily goes back over to Toni who explains her 'steamy' situation. "Are you alright?? I have a way to heal burns if you want it," I offer up my abilities to her.

:Luke: -Normies definetly like spectacle, I pretend to care, whistling lightly like I'm impressed with the dude who is calling people out, but I'm ... glad? Well at least it seems better to turn my attention to Gennie rather that watch the same old show I'd seen a million times.- "I'll get you water. -I leave, throwing out the soda, and return with water. Gennie and Toni are talking about Toni's burns- "You make it look like it doesn't even bother you, I take it your pretty tough?" -I make a way to start talking about Toni as I hand the glass of water to Gennie, glancing to her like I'm a bit worried, but not trying to smother her.-

:Toni: Hearing Ginnie offer to heal the burns I wave her off. "Thank you but I'm alright. Burns like these are nothing more than like sunburns. While uncomfortable, they will mend soon enough." It's strange that they keep offering to heal me... I mean I've seen a lot of strange things here but I really don't understand the healing. Do they have some kind of bond with cellular regeneration? Seeing Ginnie get dizzy? I look up at the male as he says that he would get her some water. Ahhh she must be dehydrated. Looking around I don't see Arika anymore and wonder where she went off too. Shrugging I glance at Luke as he comments that I'm pretty tough. Something about him seemed strange but then again I talk to machines most of the time. "I'm capable I suppose. Like I said though they aren't anymore uncomfortable than a sunburn. Now if I'd had prolonged exposure I would have probably had second degree burns. Those would have hurt." looking between the two I'm wondering if I should feel awkward or not but to hell with it. I'm supposed to be talking with people here and dammit I'm going to try.

:Genni: I nod my thanks to Luke as he returns with a cup of water and I almost gulp it all down. Wow, I really needed that water, thinking to myself. I lean my head against the chair, looking to Toni. "Well, if you're sure.." I reply, it seems like the girl could handle herself. My eyes glide towards the pool water that glistened in the sun. "Hey, you guys wanna head into the pool? I'm sure the water would cool off your 'sunburns'," I smile and excitedly offer the idea to the two of them. Really, I hadn't spent enough time in the water, especially being away from any source for so long. Not that I enjoyed breathing in the chlorine, but it was better then nothing. "Unless you don't like to swim.."

:Luke: "Capable, huh? So, can I ask what sort of things you are capable at?" -I ask Toni with a curious smile, since we don't really know anything about her or what she does. I turn my attention to Gennie as she mentions the pool.- "I'm good to swim~" -I shrug off the light button up shirt I'm wearing, to leave it in the chair, leaving me in my swim shorts, glancing to Toni to see if she wants to keep talking in the pool.-

:Toni: Smiling faintly at Ginnie I nod in response to her questioning tone. ”I’m good. Thank you for asking though.” looking to the pool as she suggested it I shrugged. The pool did look nice. ”sure. I can swim.” glancing up at Luke as he asks what sorts of things I am capable at I wonder what to tell him. ”I’m nothing special. A simple human in a school of “magically” gifted individuals.” I do air quotes with the magically before heading over to the pool and jumping in feet first.

:Starlyte: "OooOOo, you two can be on my team! Someone who is water, and someone who can fly? We'll totally win!" -looks around for more people- "Oh! That's my roommate headed towards the pool! Lets ask him and his friends~" -skips over to the pool, expecting the other two to follow- "Hey Jaiden~~~ Wanna play pool volley ball with us???" -gestures to Arika and Luca- "Your new friends too of course!"

:Luca: I smiled and followed Star over, laughing a little at her excitement,"Hell yeah I'm on your team."I said happily. I wave to her roommate and the others,"Hey, I'm Luca Salvatore."I said with a kind smile,"We were just looking to have some fun, y'know?"

:Arika: I follow the other too, and am also waving. "And you can call me Arika! Like they said, we'd love for you to join us." I put my arms around Star and Luca. "We're gonna be a team...and I have to say, if we're going to be playing in the pool, you had best bring your A-game. We're going to my domain, so you'll see me at my best." I grin widely.

:Genni: As they both agreed to take a dip in the pool, a wide child-like grin formed on my face. I shed off my white cover up and sort of danced over to the water. ”Well you probably have to be pretty gifted yourself right? I don’t think I’ve met any ‘normal’ people here at the school so far- at least I don’t think so..” I say to Toni as I watch her go into the water first. Though I turned to look at Luke, I wasn’t actually sure if the man was or wasn’t normal either, I practically didn’t know anything about him. It was a weird thing to think about and I wanted it out of my head right now. As I put the thought to the back of my mind, a girl with colorful blue hair approached them in the pool. She called Luke- Jaiden? I suppose this girl was his twins roommate. I kneel down to get into the water, slipping my feet in first and then quickly pushing myself into the pool. In a flash my legs merged together to form a fish tail and my hands became webbed as well as gills growing out of the sides of my neck. I felt more like myself again. Luca, and Arika, introduces themselves to us- the water element for the 2nd time. ”Hey! I’m Genevieve, you can call me Gennie for short, but uh-“ I turn to Luke, figuring he’d correct The girl.

:Luke: "Gennie's right, you say you're just ordinary, but I kind of doubt it. Is it a secret?" -I ask, sounding just a bit playful, but not being terribly pushy. It's not like I have to know, I'm just asking because people usually like to talk about themselves, even when they think they don't. I choose to use the dive board to get into the pool, but I float into the water instead of falling, using my powers since it seems it's a way to look 'comfortable' with this group. We have just gotten in the water when another group approaches.- "Oh, hi Starlyte! You three really think you could take us?" -I don't try too hard to ack like Jaiden, but I'm playing along to win Jaiden some 'points' with her in case they don't actually run into each other. If Gennie asks later, I'll just say it's a game Jaiden and I play as twins- "Oh hoho, fighting words!" -I respond to Arika's claim with a smile.- "Gennie might beg to differ. -This is 'team pride' right? Well, Gennie is looking at me to correct Starlyte, but I don't. My eyes now fall on Toni to see if she's down for this game.-

:Toni: Well they both for some reason think I'm some gifted person. "I have zero super powers like the other students. I'm just really smart." It was the easiest way I could explain it. It freaked people out when I told them I studied in my free time.

When I came up from my dip into the pool I'm a little surprised to see Ginnie but with a tail and hearing that we would be participating in some form of game. Looking to Luke I shrug. "It's not really a secret. I just don't have powers like you and well, apparently everyone else." I look pointedly at the way he floats into the water. What the hell was that? Could he defy gravity? Shaking my head I shrug. "Three on three right? I'll take the back." Lifting my hands out of the water the bracelets and other accessories I have on start to break apart and form small desert plate sized disks. "Defense" I say with a grin before moving to take my spot.

:Starlyte: -giggles and wraps an arm around Arika to show they're a team- "I'm Starlyte! And yes, three on three~ The numbers are perfect!" -Releases Arika and jumps into the pool happily, not nearly as floaty as Jaiden- "Oooo the water's nice! Come on guys!" -waves Arika and Luca into the pool, while wading to one side of the net

:Luca: I laugh a little and nod,"Ah hell yeah, let's do this."I say as I jump into the pool,"I mean, unless you guys are afrain if getting stomped."I taunted before I looked at Arika,"Alright, since we're in your element, how do you wanna go about this?"

:Genni: I wonder why Luke hasn’t corrected Starlyte. I make a face at his action, almost annoyed by it. I also notice that he floated straight into the water, it was.. aesthetically pleasing to the eye if I was honest. But also it was weird, I guess it had to do with what he is as a person.

Everyone is getting pumped up for the pool game, I start to get a little excited as well. Even Luke has backed me up. ”Yeah- I dunno, Arika~,” I smile and as my body floats at the surface, my tail swishes to the top and I make a little splash towards the group as they get in the water. ”I’m pretty sure I can take you on in ‘your’ domain.” A sly smile creeps into my face. Today was the day to find out I was very territorial when it came to bodies of water

:Arika: I smirk as Genni declares that she's a formidable opponent in the water. "Oh, you think so?" I jump in, getting waist deep in the pool. In doing so, my lower half becomes camouflaged in the pool, with only the barest indication that it was still there. "Well, we'll just have to see who's the better mistress of water." I look at Starlyte and Luca. "Hmm...I could take either the front or back. Whichever you guys want to do." As I speak, I raise my body up, so that I'm completely on top of the water, and get in a crouching position, so that I can move faster when the game starts. After the brief strategy session, I look back at Genni. "Good luck." I give her a friendly smile.

:Luca: "Well I can head up the middle, snag any high serves."I said as he flawed my wings,"Water doesn't affect my flying too much, so I think we should be good to go."I explained,"Where you wanna be Star?"

:Luke: "Oh, so you're a genius then?" *-If Toni's the logical kind, we can probably get along, but I say nothing about it right now, as we've been challenged to play pool volley ball-Oh, someone's got tricks up their bracelets." -I just know the basis of 'tricks of sleeves', and normies make remarks like this, anyway, I look impressed by Toni's tech.- "Well, if their going to play on top of the water." -Normies like to do this, 'statement of what they see in defiance before doing a thing', so I talk half to myself and half to my teammates, before floating at the top of the water and crouching down like Arika is. I won't use my full speed or this wouldn't even be a match. The point is 'fun' and it's not like I want to give away my speed anyhow.- "You good to take the front, Gennie?" -I offer a confident smile, like I'm sure she can take Arika. I'll probably end up going easy on Starlyte while also mostly doing well enough for my team, strategically it's best if the match seems equal and everyone is 'happy'-

:Toni: Hearing Luke comment that I'm a genius I smirk faintly. "You could say that." I chuckle at his comment but don't reply as he mimics the other girl. I roll my eyes at all of them showing off their abilities. A small ball about the size of a marble comes off one of the discs and zips around the pool. It's an extension of Val recording any information she can for me. I would explain how they were doing these things. Seeing that none of them were going to start the game I grab a ball and take my position. "Ready and Serve!" I yell as I serve the ball to the other side of the 'court'.

:Luca: I see the ball get served and smirk,"Oh it's on!"I yell laughing as I shoot up out of the water to deflect it back down to Star,"Hey! Heads up!"I call down to her to get her attention.

:Genni: My eyes glare at Arika, but a smile was on my face, "And to you as well." Her unique ability to rest on top of the water was surely interesting and made my jealous. I watch as the other team start to position themselves in place and look to my team for strategy. Suddenly I saw Luke float on top of the water as well- it sort of irked me that both of these people had this type of ability. My fish tail flicked in annoyance. "Yup!" I call out as I duck under water to swim up to the front. My tail makes a loud splash as I dive under. I surface back up again near the front and rest there. I look over to Toni as she grabs a ball and serves it, my eyes stay focused on where it goes and I position my body to get ready to move quickly if needed.

:Arika: I watch as the ball is served, flying over the net, and cycle the water into and out of my feet, propelling myself to reach the ball, though Luca reaches it first, knocking it back over. That being the first time I had done something like that, I smile, amused at myself. I had never thought to use my abilities like that, pushing water out of the back of my feet while absorbing it with the front. It seemed rather useful, especially in time like this.

:Starlyte: "Oh yeah! Powers!" -transforms into Angel Tears, her magical girl form with much sparkling light, then goes to put Mr. Sparkles carefully by the pools edge- "You guys will take it easy on me right?" -I ask with a persuasive eyelash bat, channeling my powers- "I may not have water powers, but I can still play volleyball! I'll take back! -Gets into position just as the ball is served and returned- "Way to go Team! Wooooo!"

:Luke: -I watch the volleyball as it goes into play, ready to hit it if it comes my way, but I'm brought to a pause by Starlyte's eye batting. Why do I feel slightly compelled to do as she says? it's strange, and frustrating, but I hadn't planned on giving her a hard time anyway- "Are you guys going to take it easy on us?" -I ask with a 'cheeky' smile. The ball comes near me and I bump it lightly over towards Gennie- "All yours!"

:Lyrit: Wonderous hobbies, each! Ah, Lyrit has never tries his... I mean, I have never tried my hand at origami! Flower arranging... -I trail off, thinking of the two times I HAD put flowers together, each with wildly different effect even if it had been for the same person. I shake it off- "Perhaps if Hana is interested, it is something we might all try at a later time? Ah, but for now, I would be most pleased to provide you ladies a song! It would be a most wonderous way to highlight our meeting." -Smiling brightly, I stand up, the case with my conductors wand is on my waist as always, and I take some steps back for space before retrieving it. Nearly 20 spirits appear in the space, largely with string instruments. We speak shortly before we begin. I move with energy and passion, my movements setting the pace for the music, which is upbeat and pleasant, the area around us growing dreamlike in effect, playful and whimsical.-

:Genni: My eyes shifted for a moment over to Starlyte who somehow magically transformed into something a little different. There were sparkles everywhere! Definitely blinding to look at for a long time. Take it easy on her? I thought to myself, somehow having a feeling that I wanted to- as if she was some innocent child. I shake my head and my eyes go back to focusing on the ball that comes back over to our side. Luke bumps it over towards me and with a jump, I hit it back over the net to the other side. All of a sudden I hear an orchestra playing, as if it was live. My head turns, distracted by the music as I look around to try and find where it's coming from. "What's that music from??" I ask no in particular.

:Toni: Settling back to watch the ball after serving it I hear the girl say something about going easy on her. I feel a strange sense or desire to do as she says and it irritates me immensely. Watching as the ball gets batted to us then back over the net to them I glance away Val putting a target sign over the one who is playing the music. It's nice and has a decent beat but I have no clue who he is and dismiss the idea turning my attention back to the game.

:Arika: Seeing the ball come back over, I draw the water from my left hand into my right, expanding the membrane to form, essentially, a giant tennis racquet, or a fly swatter, and hit the ball, sending it sailing back over to the other side. I then turn my left arm back to normal, a grin on my face. "I like working here. I'm much more...adaptable."

Gin12/14/2018

@everyone And with the final count coming in hot, we end round one! How exciting!