Halcyon Halls

Who: Jillian and Vinnie!
When: Saturday Night
Where: The beach!

After their date last Monday, Jillian had been dying to see Vinnie again. Unfortunately, classes had kept her insanely busy and she hadn't gotten the chance to meet with him again until Saturday night. Thankfully, it was Saturday night!

Taking a cab to the town, she shopped around for a little bit, buying a small amount of snacks, all finger foods. Little sandwiches with cold cuts and cheese, some desserts, and a little selection of fruits and veggies. Overall it was pretty healthy, since Jillian didn't know what Vinnie liked to eat. She'd snuck what they needed to make smores in the basket too, because what was a bonfire without smores?

She made her way to one of the more secluded beaches with a blanket and a basket of food, setting everything down to the side before she started to gather wood for a bonfire. There was a pit already there so all she had to do was set the fire up and start it, which was easy enough given that she'd replaced her kit already.

She had dressed in her bikini with a sundress over it. She wouldn't mind a swim, even though the water would be a little cool. Once the bonfire was set, she glanced over and spotted a dark shape walking over towards her. She smiled, waving once before she sank down onto the blanket she'd set down beside the fire. The sun hadn't set yet, so it was still nice and light, but she knew that wouldn't last for long.

Who Titania ( narrative )
When: Middle afternoon
Where: Leaving the school to go to the mall
What: Getting herself a roommate!

When telling people she had things to do during her big break before her last class of the day - was a total lie. What was there to do? She usually spent her time on her laptop or bouncing about the bed. Maybe even sitting down and actually doing some homework, instead of waiting till the last minute.

But as of late, Titania has been having trouble sleeping. It was normal for the girl, but it always had this on and off switch. Not that she controlled. When she was able to get sleep, the dreams were nothing but nightmares, and then after that, it was hard to even fall back asleep - thinking she'll slip right back into where her subconscious mind left her. Of course, there were times where she just didn't sleep at all. Did it show? Or did anyone care to notice? Her make-up hid the dark circles underneath her eyes, and her natural hyper personality covered it pretty well.

And as she felt her body slowly start to weigh down and want to fall to the floor to pass out, Titania looked at her watch and figured she had time to get to the mall before the pet shop owner gave up the puppy. There was one other woman who really wanted the dog. Guess good looks and young mind won her over. Or maybe the teenage boy who worked that day had a thing for her. Eh, best not to think about it.. He really wasn't her type.

Hopefully he isn't working today, she thought, rounding the corner in the mall that lead her right toward the yellow sign that clearly yelled "Pet Shop" in bold red lettering. It always caught her attention each and every time she stopped by or walked by. Only this time, she was actually going in and purchases!

And there she was. The cute little black and white chihuahua. Letting Titania know with that squeaky tiny bark and stubby little tail wagging, with the butt shaking too - that she was excited to see the young girl. She was excited as well! The angry woman wasn't in sight, so the dog was ripe for the picking. So to speak.

Titania paid with the cash she only had with her. Good thing she saved up and didn't allow her mother to know she was hiding something like this away from her. She even was able to buy a cute collar to go with the license she is hoping to buy along the rode. But for now, she held the tiny pup close as she made her way out of the mall. Making little cooing sounds while the little tongue went a mile a minute.

"What am I going to call you?" she spoke out loud. Knowing the cab driver looked back at them both.

Who:  Ana and Ava
What:  Siblings of doom!
When:  Evening
Where:  The Blue Martini

Well, it really had been a busy couple of weeks, what with classes and all.  Ana was actually a decent enough student when it came down to it - that's why she packed a light load of classes.  That made it easier to stay on top of the workload and still have fun.  She was not going for most incredible student, but decent success would be nice.  She was going to be a vampire for the rest of her unlife.  She'd better get used to being one and living in the supernatural world.  Her first day of classes and meeting Xander (as Ava) had taught her well enough that this really was a new world - not just an improved version of being human.  It was odd to think that, really, normal human laws no longer applied to her.

She had been rather busy with wandering about and getting acclimated to the school - meandering was her version of nesting.  Cleopatra had kept her company, but really, the scaly critter had nothing on human, or human-like, company.  Ava had seemed equally occupied as the two had only seen each other in passing, really.  Of course, that wasn't counting the half awake late night conversations across the room they had.  Once or twice Ana may even have climbed into her sister's bed, just to be near her.  They had often done that as children, and even now and then in New York, when they weren't out doing naughty things like flying high or being a juicebox.  Speaking of juiceboxes...  Hadn't Ava mentioned finding one for them?  Hmmm...

After the sun set, Ana took a cab down to the Blue Martini, a high class martini bar she had heard about.  Ava was off somewhere, and they would meet there.  Arriving first, she caught a table in a shadowy part of the bar so they could talk privately.  Of course, if they were really concerned about that, they could just speak in their own private language.  Wearing a royal blue halter dress that brought out her eyes, Ana watched the entrance for her sister.

Who: Ava and Caibre
When: Wednesday Night
Where: Isle of Bacalao Hotel
What: Snack time!

Ava smoothed down the collar of her Prada coat as she walked up to the hotel doors, glancing back as the cab that had brought her drove away. She'd been diligently attending classes, but her little indulgence had made her crave. Fresh blood beside the bagged blood...it was no question. She didn't have the self control to be able to keep herself from fresh blood when it was readily available, well, readily available meaning she had to call and make arrangements to get the fresh blood from a somewhat unwilling host.

Maybe she'd bitten off more than she could chew. Ava was certain, though, that she could handle a challenge. She brushed her hands down her coat and walked into the hotel, the doorman smiling politely at her as she returned the gesture. Her long hair was blond today, a method she liked to use when she was trying to be somewhat incognito, and she walked to the front desk, checking in and getting the key. The room was already paid for, so she didn't worry about that, and she took the elevator to the room in short order.

She was nervy. She wasn't even sure that he would show. After their encounter last weekend, she wasn't sure how he felt about being the blood bank for a wealthy pair of heiresses. She knew that Ana had to make her own arrangements, but still. She knew that she hadn't minded being a blood doll, but then, she also knew that she herself was pretty messed up. Finding her door, she slipped the key in and stepped into the sterile room, glancing around at the contents with mild interest.

It was a nice room, she'd made sure of that, but she didn't really care. Stripping off her coat, she tossed it onto a chair and then sighed. Walking to the door, she opened it to let in the fresh night air, stepping onto the balcony to survey the courtyard. Alright, she had to give the owners a little credit. It was a fairly nice hotel.

She waited, letting her hands rest on the balcony as she squeezed the iron gently. She hoped that she could control herself. Her professor in Bloodlust class (when she'd been able to pay attention in class, due to the fact that the man was ridiculously beautiful) had made it fairly clear that it was dangerous for young vampires like her, and most of the previous times she'd fed, she'd been in public or Saul had been there to stop her.

This time, she'd have to make sure that she was still careful. Hearing movement, she glanced over her shoulder and looked into the room.

Who: Mircea and Sasha (and Dreizen)
When: Tuesday afternoon
Where: Library
What: Sasha’s got blackbirds on the brain; Mircea’s got trouble in the wings.


Libraries, Sasha reflected, were harder than a bad habit.

Even the worst nicotine urge never bit as deep as the familiar bouquet: glue and cold dust, the musty, antique smell of well-worn pages, a whiff of worn leather and wood polish, and that last ghost of inimitable sweetness that marked a mature library.

It was heaven. It was torture. It was—utterly ridiculous. God help me, I’m turning weepy over the reek of mildew and magazine ink? How the mighty have fallen, indeed.

From a mercilessly objective point of view, Sasha could appreciate the irony of her condition—and the slice of humble pie it served. Certainly, her abilities had allowed Josiah’s precocious protégée to be a world class know-it-all more than once. Making her godfather’s jumpy apprentices cry in the book stacks had been a beloved childhood pastime. But humility was one thing; being outright handicapped was quite another.

We may sit in our library and yet be in all quarters of the earth, Josiah once quoted. He was right then as always: books had opened up a new universe for Sasha. What’s more, they showed that universe to be workable, coherent, a sum of things possible to record and understand. For a lost cause kid like Sasha, perpetually mired in a swamp of disordered memories and incomprehension, it had been more than a revelation: it was salvation. Sasha looked down at the open book beside her, seeing nothing intelligible in the rows of text, and wanted to cry—shout—anything—because it wasn’t fair.

It just wasn’t bloody-God-damn-fair.

A brusque rip brought her attention down to the notebook under her hand—and the small tear newly dug under her pen. Annoyed, Sasha smoothed the ruined spot, tender with ink, only to stain her thumb in the process. Really, why was she even bothering with pen and paper, when neither was of any true use in her condition? She carried a notebook in class for appearance’s sake only. All relevant “notes” went through her digital recorder or simply stayed in her memory banks. Though Sasha’s alexia didn’t erase her ability to write, she distrusted setting down her thoughts when unable to review them.

Which isn’t to say they didn’t find a way to leak onto paper regardless…

I was of three minds, wrote the poet. Like a tree in which there are three...blackbirds.

They littered across the page, a noiseless gale of rough wings and beaks and claws. Crow, rooks, jackdaws, and ravens with jagged crowns sketched atop their heads. The designs varied from elegantly simple to lovingly grotesque, wings spread and wings folded, some flying, some hopping, some without legs at all. Only the coloring was consistent: black.

Nigredo.

Caput mortuum. Though caput corvi, she admitted, would be the more appropriate term.

“One for sorrow, two for joy; three for a girl, and four for a boy.” Sasha’s lips quirked in something that wasn’t quite a smile. “Five for silver, six for gold, and seven for a secret that's never been told.”

At the sound of his keeper’s voice, Dreizen raised his sleek head. That was one of the (very few) advantages of her current disability: if there was a library sign prohibiting animals, Sasha could claim blissful ignorance.

Who: Charlie and Sydni
When: Thursday night
Where: Starting at school, heading to the Isle of Bacalao Hotel eventually

Charlie had to admit, he was feeling pretty down as he got cleaned up and prepared to meet Sydni. This would be the last time he saw her for a while. He refused to think of it as the last time ever. Sure, it was a possibility, promised visits didn't always become a reality. But he was convinced he and Sydni would keep in touch, and he was sure she'd visit him when her schedule allowed it. The biggest challenge to her visiting was going to be the tension between her and Davia, though maybe that would ease with a bit of distance. He hoped so.

It was dark out, and Charlie was dressed, but he needed to take Cassius out for a walk before meeting up with Sydni, then he'd drop the pup off with a non-light-sensitive friend for the evening. Yeah, Charlie and Sydni would have to return to the school before dawn, so it wasn't like Cassius would be locked up for a cruel period of time, but he still liked to provide the pup with company.

With Cassius in good hands, Charlie ran back to his room to get everything he needed for the night, which was basically just his wallet, cell, and keys. He'd either sleep naked (like normal) or in his boxers if Syd preferred. Charlie had no idea what to expect from their evening together, especially since he figured she was upset about him leaving. He didn't know what to expect of himself either, knowing that Sydni wasn't one for casual sex, and not feeling entirely comfortable trying to convince her otherwise. Something told Charlie he probably could, but would that be taking advantage? He wasn't sure.

With a sigh, he made his way outside and toward his bike, where he planned to meet Sydni. She wasn't there yet, but he went ahead and uncovered the motorcycle and got the helmets out. He also briefly checked his appearance in one of the bike's side mirrors. He'd kept it casual and fashionable as always... rugged jeans that hugged his lean frame nicely, paired with a button up black shirt. The typical flare was in place as well... a cool belt buckle, his favorite boots, and of course his leather jacket.

Who: Mircea and Sydni
When: Evening
Where: Outside of the School
What: A drunken Sydni meets a friendly wolf.

The benefits of being a shape shifter were that one could take a nice leisurely stroll outside and not be bothered by most sentient creatures, particularly when one was a large black wolf. Mircea only knew of one person at the school who knew his lupine form, and she wasn't likely to be speaking to him anytime soon. She didn't quite know about the raven yet, but she was a smart girl and she'd figure it out eventually. Either she would or that mysterious Max fellow who had left him that polite note.

The one downfall was that his clothes didn't shift with him. It was easy to carry a bag with clothing and secret it amidst some leaves in the woods near the school when he was a wolf, but doing it as a bird was another thing. He hoped no one ever closed his window or else he'd be stuck outside with no clothing. That would be...problematic.

Trotting outside of the school, Mircea was enjoying what would have been a nice leisurely stroll through the woods when he heard heavy footfalls on the path coming towards him and the school. He glanced upwards, his light eyes glinting in the moonlight as he opened his mouth in a yawn. Moving up the well-worn dirt path, he caught sight of a lone figure, staggering slightly as she walked. He huffed a soft bark before he moved a little faster and then took a seat, surprised to see the young woman walking towards him.

What on earth was Sydni doing out here, wine bottle in hand, staggering down the path looking as though the entire world had just ended? Normally, he wasn't concerned by other people's habits unless they involved him in some way or another, but given that he'd involved himself with the young woman moving towards him, he stepped into her path slowly and then sat back on his haunches, tilting his head to the side to study her.

What had she gotten herself into?

Who: Henry, and Vallis
When: Thursday late night
Where: The Halls of Halcyon
What: Vallis has been hiding for too long.


Having one childe within close range was one thing. Having two however, well, that could present a greater problem. To each, he was a different man, to each, he was the same man. Never once had he kept company with more than one at a time. He never planned to sway from that. However, here he was, in such a mix, and with no real way to extract himself from it. Of course, Henry was not aware of his presence, he could so easily just keep his distance, and maintain the appearance of being a stranger. Yet, Vallis was curious. Curious to see what sort of man his son had become. Unlike Lily, whose mind was so easily tapped into, Henry shielded his, with impressive talent at that. Vallis could not learn about the man from his memories, or thoughts. Nor could he trust what he knew of him some three centuries before. A vampire changed greatly in an extended period of time, he had. They became new people... chameleons. The changed when it was needed, and adapted. Each evolution did have some effect on the core of their personality.

Not even his curiosity had him pushing eagerly for a reunion. Not once had he even glimpsed the man, in his time at Halcyon. Sensed him, yes, but not witnessed him. Even now as his fingers danced across the keys of the music room piano, he felt the slightest draw to the north of him. The playing slowed, his head turning ever so slightly away from the music, and the young woman he was entertaining with the piece by Beethoven. Which was difficult to do, considering she was straddling his lap, and sucking at the skin of his neck rather enthusiastically. He wasn't even sure if she was a student, or not. A young fae, he knew that much, and the need to no more was not present. "You know, mon cher... that talent, would be of better use, below my belt." Yet when the woman slid down towards the floor, he used a foot to brush her aside. "Not now. You will know for next time. As for now, you will leave." His attention was now else where, and she wasn't fetching enough to sway his attention.

Vallis' eyes remained fixed on the black, and white keys, while the woman rose from the floor, and moved to the door, and exited. It wasn't until her footsteps finally faded out of range down the hallway, that he allowed his hands to fall from the graceful intrument. The sensation was growing, nearing... he would have to face him, or completely give into the truth that he was a coward. Which he was, but he would never admit to it. He lowered the key cover, and rose from the varnished black bench. Upon reaching the doorway, he leaned back against it, watching as the figure of a tall man approached. Why was he expecting him to look different? Aside from the lack of a beard, he hadn't changed. He was a man of this age. A chameleon vampire. Just what he should be.

"You are the grounds keeper, no?" Vallis called out, enticing the man into conversation before he had the chance to pass him without a word passed between them. He was curious to see if the thick English accent remained. His own, at the time of their first meeting had been painfully thick, not to mention his English had not been supurb. Now, it was perfect, and only a hint of his home country remained, lining each word. "Henry... Tanner, I believe they said. It would seem that you are as trusted in this place, as I am. Funny... we have the same young woman to thank for that." He smiled, tucking his hands into the pockets of his trousers. "Tanner... when did you stop going by Lytton?"

Who: Cissy and Simon
What: The Big Date
Where: Surprise locale outside school
When: After classes, about 3pm

She didn't have class, he'd checked her schedule. No dance club meeting, that was Wednesdays. Simon felt a bit like a stalker, but it was necessary to ensure it all went right. He hoped he was dressed well- comfortable, but not sloppy.

That Sydni was a genius. It had been a really good idea to ask her advice on romantic dates, because the answer she gave was just perfect. Of course, she was a girl and girls knew what girls thought was romantic.

He walked confidently through the girls' room hallway, because even if someone caught him he was in too good a mood to care. Placing his knapsack just outside the door, he straightened his shirt collar and knocked. When the door opened, he grinned shyly. Cissy looked very pretty. She always did.

"You're gonna have to change," he told her. "Second date attire required. Wear sandals, no heels, no skirts." He crossed his arms, looking faux impatient. "I'll be waiting. But I can't wait forever."

Who: James and Natalia
When: 9PM until ?
What: A date

James had honestly thought it would take longer to convince Natalia to go out with him, but he was wrong. It seemed that she was a sucker for a nice gift still. Either that or she just felt bad for him having lost his mother. That was a wound that was still rather raw, especially after having a few days to think about it. He truly was an orphan now. And he worried for his sister. She was out there alone again, with no one, no way to reach him. It scared him. He wanted so badly to help her but... She was stubborn, just like he was. And all of that was neither here nor there right now. Tonight he didn't want to think about any of those things, or even talk about them, though he was certain it would come up eventually.

Never being one to go out without a plan or without spending at least a few hours getting ready, one of which was on his hair, James had decided upon a new approach tonight. He had absolutely no idea what they were doing or where they were going. He had made no reservations, hadn't called a car, hadn't even bothered with bringing her flowers. And as for his appearance, he wore a pair of faded jeans and a long sleeved tee. His hair was free of product, left loose and soft upon his head, and his boots lacked their usual shine, opting for a pair of slightly scuffed black Lugz instead. He looked far more casual than fashion forward this evening and he felt more comfortable that way, oddly enough.

Natalia had said she would be ready at eight thirty but he had given her until nine o'clock before he knocked upon her door. The sound was quick and heavy as his knuckles rapped upon the wood, his hand moving down to be shoved into his pocket immediately thereafter. He leaned against the frame of the door as he waited for her, his eyes downcast upon his shoes. A slight frown darkened his features as he stood there. Cissy better be right about this shit. Then again, when was she ever really wrong? If there was someone who knew a lot about women, wouldn't it be a woman? It was worth a shot either way.

Who: Sydni and Davia
When: Around 9
Where: The Restaurant inside the Luxe
What: Dinner

This was perhaps a strange setting for two girls to be meeting. It was a little more romantic than Davia had actually pictured it being. But that was fine. The food smelled delicious and there was really no point in trying to find somewhere else to go once Sydni got here. They already had reservations for this place, which would probably be impossible to come by elsewhere, and she didn't want to go somewhere that wasn't quite as fancy considering she had gotten all dressed up for the evening. Why she had bothered to ensure that she looked so nice in order to meet up with Sydni was perhaps a mystery, but if she gave it much thought, maybe she could come up with an answer. And maybe she really didn't want to.

Davia was the first to arrive at the restaurant, so she was seated and the hostess had assured her that her companion would be escorted to the table as soon as she arrived. She fidgeted with the straw in her glass of water upon the table as she waited, her mind reeling with thoughts, thoughts about Halcyon, about LA, about Charlie, and then about Sydni as well. She wondered if they ever really would be able to repair the rift between them. She knew it was important to Charlie, that she and Sydni both were important to him, but knowing that made it even harder to actually take that step forward. It brought to the forefront all the insecurities that she was trying very hard to push to the back of her mind. It was very difficult to want to be around someone that made her feel that way. But here she was, making an effort, though why it was for her and not for him, as Charlie had suggested, she wasn't really sure.

"Can I get a bottle of red wine?" She asked, catching the waitress as she passed. "House wine. Whatever that is." She clarified, then folded her hands in her lap and leaned back a bit in the chair. An awkward smile was cast in the direction of a man that seemed to have a bit of an eye for her. She wasn't feeling the same cool confidence that she had felt the last time she and Sydni had met. She was a little bit scared. Moving to LA was a big step and one that she wasn't entirely sure of, one that she hadn't really had the chance to give much thought to. It seemed like the right thing to do, but the city was big and scary and had the ability to potentially eat her alive. Hopefully that wasn't going to happen, she just had an innate fear of losing herself while trying to find herself. She was putting a lot of trust in Charlie, and in his family, none of whom she had known all that long, to keep her grounded.

Who: Verushka, and Vallis
When: Tuesday evening
Where: A restaurant in the village
What: Blackmail


At times, you had to make sacrifices to ensure that your peace, wasn't too badly disturbed. Tonight was such a sacrifice. Vallis would never willingly spend his evening with a creature he readily hated. One who hated him equally in turn, unless there was good reason for it. Yet, when such a creature knew one of your darker secrets, you had to take certain measures, to keep them silent. The old saying... keep your friends close, and your enemies closer. Never was it more realivent, than at this very moment. He wouldn't be able to charm Veru, he knew that before waking that evening. She also wouldn't tolerate him man handling her, nor would he be able to tamper with her thoughts so easily. If he really wanted to, he could his age would allow him to do so, but it would take far more effort than he was willing to spare on this shrew. No, he would simply have to convince her that he was a changed man. That alone would be difficult, especially since he had already lost his temper with the woman in previous conversations. He intened to try his best.

After she agreed to join him, sometime before, he hadn't wasted any time in making plans. Vallis had reserved the whole back room of the little French restaurant, and had ordered a bottle of Château Margaux. Something he was amazed they were able to find in such a short span of time. It had all cost him a pretty penny. Not that he cared. Ever the spoiled, rich, little brat. Vallis had more money than he would likely be able to spend in a dozen life times. He knew this, which was why he spent money, as if it was nothing. Showered expensive gifts upon those close to him. Why not use your money to impress, when the impression would more often than not, get you exactly what you wanted? The question was, was all this in the hopes of impressing Veru? No, not at all. He expected the evening to be completely horrendous, and these little luxurious were intended to bring himself some comfort.

His mood was already that of irritation, when he awoke at sunset. Sunset... the sun... that was one thing he could praise Halcyon for. Allowing an old vampire like him, the chance to witness the sun once more, without it being an act of suicide. At times, he found himself starring out the windows during class, when he assigned a bit of reading. His mind would drift back to when he was a young man. Newly married, and with an infant son in his arms. They would walk the small property he had once owned, Charles laughing as his father imitated various animals that lived on the farm. It was such a strange picture now, Vallis almost felt as if he were remembering the life of a stranger. Perhaps he was. He hadn't been that man for very long after all.

After a quick shower, he dressed, and left the comfortable surroundings of his room, once the sky became littered with stars. It wasn't long before he found himself seated in the the restaurant. A glass of red wine clutched in one hand. His body language read of the sheer boredom he felt, drifting to the side, brow raised, while his eyes rested upon the man butchering Sonata in A major, on the piano. The woman had better arrive soon, or he was going to tear open the mans throat, for not only enjoyment, but to also halt the insult, that was his playing.

Who: Kat, and Wes
When: Wednesday early evening
Where: The garage, then who knows
What: Lessons in being a biker



The weather had put a slight damper on the plans they had originally made. A first time rider would have a hard enough time, without having to deal with slick roads, mud, and rain clouded the shield on their helmet. Thankfully, the following day seemed to provide more appropriate weather for the lessons. It was still humid as hell, which explained why his unruly hair seemed to have taken on a life of it's own. Even with his old fashioned helmet, it was still bushing out to the point of being ridiculous. Not that he cared, people were used to him looking like a wild, hairy, beast of a guy. Most thought he didn't bathe... which bothered him to some point. You could be unkempt, and still into hygiene, thanks very much. Having lived during a time in history, when sanitation wasn't wide spread, having been exposed to the stench, you came to appreciate a bar of soap. Plumbing, and toilets as well. Fuck, people didn't know how lucky they were this day, and age.

They had agreed to meet in the schools garage, which is where he had headed, after grading a few projects for his class. There were still quite a few that he needed to sort through, but there would be time for those later. He never liked to rush grading. You had to get inside the artist head a bit, try to see where their point of view was going from. If there was true effort, you had to look more deeply into it. Of course, there were those few who simply didn't give a damn, didn't try, and they usually received the same grade. No reward for the lazy. Wes sat on the hood of one of the few cars that littered the garage. Who it belonged it, he had no clue. Not that he cared at the moment, it was some place to plant his ass while he waited for her to join him.

His old helmet rested half way on the hood, half way on the black, and white fabric colored knee of his. Actually, the knees were the only part of his legs not covered in the strange looking trousers. They were cut rather wide open, fared, and ragged. The strange didn't end there, as he paired the pants with a bright yellow t-shirt, with a faded graphic of Bruce Lee on the front. His normal chucks had been traded for a pair of boots though. It had been long enough since he last rode, that he couldn't trust his feet in anything that wouldn't provide a bit of protection. Granted, he would heal if anything happened, but fuck, it would still hurt.

The bike.... yeah, he didn't know what to think. Dull eyes kept sweeping back to the machine every few moments. It wasn't cheap, he knew that. The fact that it was from that kid didn't help either. Why the hell was she fucking around with him? Unless he was magically nicer to her, than anyone else, he didn't get it. Then again, some people were completely different behind closed doors. Nah, that dickhead couldn't be that deep.

Week Nineteen
Dates: Monday August 6th through Sunday August 12th
Season: Summer 2007
Month: Early August – Mid August

Announcements:

Monday
Just in case any students missed Mr. Venizelos's post in his journal a Art Exhibition for student artist will be held close to the end of term. The event will be held at the Lux Hotel and will be catered, it sounds like it will be quite the event. Do remember art students in his class, this is extra credit for you.

Sign up sheets will be located on the outside of his office and classroom doors. Or if you can see him at his shop Gun Smoke Tattoo. All of the artist at Halcyon are urged to check out this great opportunity to get their work out there and all are welcome to come and enjoy the show

Monday
The Loft and Pit will be hosting live bands this weekend. If any Halcyon Students involved in a band want to get a great chance to get their music out there, this is it! Time slots will be going quickly so make sure to get to the club early and reserve a time if interested.

The manager will be at the club and available to speak to every night from 6pm to close.

Wednesday
Today in 1899 A.T. Marshall of Brockton, Massachuesetts, patented the refrigerator. An invention we all can’t seem to live without now!

Saturday
Starting from 4pm to close The Loft and the Pit will be hosting live music. Bands will have free reign on musical choices and songs. Half price drinks for all patrons displaying a Halcyon Halls Student ID and half priced food! Remember, you must be at least sixteen to enter. The club will be packed so make sure to get in early if you’re looking to snag up a booth or get in close to the stages.

Sunday
Today is International Youth Day (IYD) is an awareness day designated by the United Nations. The first IYD was on 12 August 2000. It is meant as an opportunity for governments and others to draw attention to youth issues worldwide. Concerts, workshops, cultural events, and meetings involving national and local government officials and youth organizations take place around the world in honor of International Youth Day.

To celebrate the island Library will be hosting a job fair decided to give show youths on the island that their job oppurtunities go far beyond just retail stores and restauraunts. Also all throughout the city there will be booths and activities directed to make the day an enjoyable and productive day for everyone involved! They day will be ended with a small concert and play put on by the local day cares in the city.

Birthdays this Month:
Mirael Gazardiel - Aug 7th
Kiernan Gallagher - Aug 23rd



Weather:
Monday August 6th Continued rain and high humidity plague the island. (High: 82°F Low: 70°F)
Tuesday August 7th: You might think that the rain has stopped...but it will start up again later tonight. (High: 86°F Low: 71°F)
Wednesday August 8th: A break is in sight, just some lingering humidity and heat. (High: 91°F Low: 69°F)
Thursday August 9th: The heat continues on through this week. (High: 93°F Low: 65°F)
Friday August 10th: Hot all day but a light breeze helps tonight (High: 91°F Low: 68°F)
Saturday August 11th: A bit of a grey morning but that will fade quickly (High: 92°F Low: 71°F)
Sunday August 12th: The heat might start to fade with the new week but it lingers around for today. (High: 89°F Low: 68°F)


((OOC: Mods will not be posting for any off campus activities.))

WHO: Jesse "Army Brat" Holmes and maybe it could be you...
WHERE: Gym. Jesse wants to get rid of his string bean figure
WHEN: Week 18, Saturday, mid afternoon
WHAT: Jesse is working out. Anyone else?
RATING: Um... G? Maybe it could change

What a week this had been for Jesse Bryan Holmes. The full moon was Monday which stressed him out anyway. On Tuesday morning, he felt even more like a wet dog because it rained that night. The 15 year old somehow knew that he didn't really care so much during the transformation. It made the hunt more difficult considering his usual prey of small animals were hiding in the storm. So there were no gifts for the groundskeeper. And there would be no gifts for River. The werewolf had planned to attempt to save one of his small kills and toss it in the bed of his irritating roommate. It hadn't really occurred to him that the half-chaos demon, half-satyr would probably make his morning a living hell so he wouldn't be able to sleep. Like most teenage boys, action ruled his life and thinking did not.

While the full moon was only one of Jesse's difficulties, he also coped with the fact that Kenzie had left. He'd be lying if he said it didn't hurt him a little bit. Kenzie had been his practice buddy and now he had no one. Now, he was back to being the mentally youngest person at Halcyon apart from some students and teachers' small children. He wished there were other people his age that were not annoying like certain individuals *cough* River. And he also wished that people would stop treating him like a small child. It was sad when Sasha's dog thought he was a puppy. Well, he did laugh at it, underneathe, the werewolf was seething with anger. He wanted his sixteenth birthday to show up already. Maybe people would leave him alone. He could also go to the nightclubs in town and meet people.

Jesse's week had been particularly busy. He had homework and work at the ice cream parlor. Additionally, he had to do his usual run and work out. Running was the one thing he did that made him truly happy and free. He missed track for the social aspect; surround yourself with people who also like to run. He did have the gaming club to mess about in but it was no running. Unfortunately, running only made the ever lanky and ever growing 15 year old even lankier. He hated the fact that he was so skinny. Girls and most guys didn't like skinny.

Together with trying to clear his mind of the aforementioned led the werewolf to the gym on this particular Saturday. While Charlie said he would lift weights with him, Jesse could never seem to find him for free time so he decided to do it alone. Oh, it didn't matter so much. Teen wolf wore a pair of black work out shorts and a black tank top. He had on his iPod around his forearm and at this moment in time, was tackling the free weights. Basic curls was what he forced on for the moment. His weights may be a bit too heavy which is clear in his face as he strained with each curl. Hey, he was trying to look cool.

Who: Kiernan, Alana and Sam
When: Wednesday Evening
Where: Town - Mini-golf



"Daddddy daddydaddydaddydaddy!" Alana bounced with eager anticipation next to her father. The braids that her hair was pulled back into, continued to bob even after her body finally reached the floor again. It didn't take a genius to figure out that she was excited. About ready to explode with it to be exact. Kiernan was really regretting the fact that he'd given in and let her have cookies for her snack instead of the stupid ants on a log or whatever that celery thing was called. Alana was clearly still reveling in the power of chocolate chip.

"And how do I play mini-golf again? If there's a purple club thingie I want it and when are we meeting Sam again?" She shot off in rapid fire succession, tugging at Kiernan's hand as he finished securing his watch around his wrist. Head angled down Kiernan gave Alana the patented father look that he might be one of the few things about parenting that he did in fact have down. "One question at a time and am I never going to be able to let you have cookies again?" He asked her as he crouched down, hitching up the sleeves on the tan zip up he was wearing.

"ONLY ONE! and no, I'm just fine with cookies!" Alana protested as she gave him the equally patented daughter look, the one that had just a little bit of a pout but finished off with the I'm to cute to argue you with smile. She did have him wrapped around her little finger. It was a painful admission for Kiernan to make but true just the same.

"I'll show you when we get there, yes you can and we're going now if you have your sweatshirt. I don't want you getting cold." Kiernan finally relented and answered all the questions that had been posed by his daughter. She smiled brightly in return and ran off to collect the sweatshirt that her dad insisted she wear. Even if he never had to be told to bring things to keep him warm. So wasn't fair. "KAY! Ready!" Alana grabbed for her dad's hand and practically dragged him from their room. Somehow she managed to keep the patience to let him lock up before he was being pulled down the hallway and down the path that led to Sam's house. She knew it well now.

Alana was a smart kid, maybe more than her father gave her credit for but that had more to do with the fact that he was still working the fatherhood kinks out and that included really knowing how much his daughter was capable of. It tended to bite him in the ass. And on that note, Alana knew that her daddy was smiling a whole lot more then he used to and that he was always smiling when he writing emails and stuff on the computer and she was pretty sure that he was talking to Sam. Now what that meant in particular... Alana didn't in fact know but she was glad for it just the same.

The pair managed to make their way into the house of fire, Kiernan gave Alana permission to run off to Sam's room and perform whatever secret knock she'd been talking about and get the woman that apparently made him smile. He just idly looked at his watch and wondered if he shouldn't have them walk down to the mini-golf just to get some of Alana's energy out... idea had merit. In the distance some sequence of knocks could be heard as Alana bounced on her toes and waited for Sam's door to open.

Who: Simon and Jillian
What: Downtown Merriment
Where: Downtown
When: Saturday Afternoon

There was alcohol lining the streets. Quite literally. The local shops were celebrating the anniversary for discovering the finest romance beverage ever created- champagne. Some stores were making quite a hooplah about it, giving out small samples in cups (to of-age patrons only, unless the manager wasn't looking), selling candies, even giving out tiny platters of champagne Jello, the most bastardized version of the bubbly.

Simon had managed to snag a few samples, and was feeling the effects quite well in the heat. It was pleasant. He'd decided to go shopping for a ring, hopefully a cheap one. He was not a boy with much money. Either that, or he'd find himself a job down here. Whichever.

He finally came upon a nice jewelry store, one that didn't look too expensive but would still have nice stuff. He didn't want anything cheaply made. The door chimed as he walked in, and a sweet smell filled the air. he breathed it deeply.

"Champagne candle," the cashier explained. "Are you drunk?"
"No," he told her, making a face. But he kinda was. Just a little. Browsing though the array of shinies, he ignored the chime of the door as it opened again.

Who: Ava and Open
Where: The Music Room
When: Thursday Late Afternoon
What: Practice makes perfect...

For once in her life, Ava hadn't managed to insert herself into the nightlife of her new home. New York had been easy, almost too easy in the long run, and Gilford hadn't had much of a nightlife compared to the larger places. So right now, instead of going out, she was inside of the music room, getting ready to practice the one thing that calmed her and set her restless spirit at ease.

Choosing an aria from Thaïs, one of her favorite operas, she cleared her throat and began to sing. Her voice wasn't nearly as clear as it had been ten years ago, but still it carried, the soft and sweet dulcet tones weaving the tale of the courtesan from Alexandria being wooed away by the Cenobite monk Athanaël. The tale was a favorite of hers because in the ending the monk realized that his goal of saving the courtesan from her life of sin had merely led him to realize that his love for her was one that would never be realized when he had saved her.

Letting the notes carry clear and strong, she moved from one aria to another from the same opera. It was easy to sing when you no longer needed to breathe to survive and lifting the notes higher was a glory. The sound echoed in the empty room and she finished, pleased with the way the aria had ended. Her face was flushed from the exertion, despite her pallor, and she clapped her hands once in pleasure.

Now if only fitting into Halcyon Halls would prove to be so easy a challenge surmounted. Sighing, she cleared her throat, preparing to start another aria. She would clear out should anyone need the room, but for now she was simply enjoying being able to sing freely again.

Who: Vallis, and Vivian
Where: The Music room
When: Early, early Sunday morning
What: A performance interrupted


Some evenings after returning home from work, when the sun was too close to risk spending much longer outside, she found herself wandering the castle halls. It gave her time to think in an environments that wasn't nearly as constricting as her dorm room. The previous night had been no different. Friday had been extremely busy, and tiring. So when her shift ended, in the early hours of Saturday morning, she returned promptly to the castle. If it hadn't been for her catching sight of the grounds keeper tending to a few matters not far from the school entrance on her way in, she likely would have retired. For a moment she had considered walking over, and speaking to him, or just doing something that might have drawn his eye to her. He probably knew she was there regardless. The truth was, she had no idea what she might say to him. For once, she knew that she was in the wrong. She almost felt as if she should apologize to him, but her pride wouldn't allow her to do so. So, when she walked up the lawn that morning, it was no surprise that her eyes had searched the area, for even the smallest sign that she wasn't alone. She found nothing.

Even with that small disappointment, she did not head for the Terrene common room. No, her feet carried her own, without much guidance, or directly. They moved on their own, while her mind danced between the beautiful little muse she knew would be sleeping at that moment, and the father she had abandoned. Her Jaida. The thought alone brought a soft smile to her lips. That was one thing that she did love, waking up next to the girl. Seeing her in those last few moments of sleep, when she was peaceful, and serene. No matter how much she adored that mouth, it was nice to see it at rest from time to time. Henry.... she couldn't even begin to imagine where he was at that moment. Nor what he might be doing, or thinking. Yes, he had been very angry with her the last time they spoke, but it was so hard to predict an outstanding reaction when it came to him. How long would the anger last? Or had it perhaps already left him, along with she from his mind.
( ... )

Who: The Madcap Brigade. (Capt. Scumble, Lt. Bunnyknickers, Sgt. Muffy, Cpl. Cupcake, and possibly Pvt. Batgirl)
What: Livestock larceny.
Where: Woods-->pasture/barn-->Fire House CR(?)
Why: ...

“Mary had a little lamb,
Its fleece was white as snow;
And everywhere that Mary went,
The lamb was sure to—whoa. Watch it, guys, there’s some malevolent mud on premises.”

Tottering slightly, Sasha looked down, trying to navigate around the slippery spot in the darkening twilight.

It would be safe to say that Susannah Hallmeyer was acting...and looking...odd. Instead of the usual elegant uniform of hem and heels, or even the more pragmatic denim assembly, Sasha was decked out in drawstring camouflage pants, starlet tee, and a striped hoodie sporting cat ears. A Venetian half mask straddled the back of her head. she was also humming, whistling, and grinning like a barmy monkey.

Maybe it was because of the weather, the threat of rain turning the evening sky into a foreboding shadow, the smell of damp beginning to spice the air. Rain always corkscrewed her temper. Maybe it was because of the task at hand: creeping through a patch of woods towards an unwary pasture, and its equally unwary wooly residents. Maybe it was because of the company, because what could you say about a group of girls who spent Sunday night kidnapping livestock for absolutely inane purposes.

Maybe it was because of the flask in her pocket, its contents steadily diminishing.

“Be wevy, wevy quiet,” she hissed behind her. “We’re hunting for a wab—whoa-whoa-whoa-ouch.”

...why hello, Mr. Ditch. How are you faring this fine, sweet evening? Now on her back and temporarily out of sight in what had better damn well be dirt, Sasha exhaled hard through her bangs. Yep, this was exactly how she wanted to approach her twenties: dad dead, mom gone, sadistic vampire twin sister actively out to ruin her sanity, hiding in a mythical school on a fantasy island—stealing sheep. Well, trying to anyway.

“...yo?” She called out. “Y’know, I think I dropped the happy sauce; can somebody toss it down here? But, um, not on my head—well, not on the pretty bits. Also, I ain’t dead.”

Who: Starbuck and Kat
When: Saturday night, 9:00ish
Where: the beach

Starbuck had spent most of the day packing up his belongings. He was also busy gathering up all of Kamea's things that were in his room, many of which he'd bought for her, or had been given as gifts from his mother and friends. Every item of hers that he touched, reinforced his belief that leaving here was the best thing for everyone involved. No, he hadn't accomplished all he'd hoped to, but there would be time in the future to work on his healing abilities, family came first, and it always would. Besides, the fundamentals he'd learned at Halcyon could be developed on his own, maybe not at the same rate, but he'd continue to progress while away from school. He was going to have to leave eventually and make things work on his own, this was just a bit sooner than he'd expected.

Everything about the last couple of months had been unexpected. He didn't foresee such an abrupt and somewhat bitter end to his relationship with Kat. He definitely wasn't prepared to have a woman show up with his child in her arms. And he really didn't anticipate the degree of progress he'd made so far at school. Starbuck had grown up a bit at Halcyon. He felt a hell of a lot less guilty about his father's death, even though it did still haunt him, and probably always would to some degree. His temper had calmed significantly, and he liked to think it was partially due to the fact it had been tested throughly by his peers. All in all, his experience had been one wild ride, but a good one none the less.

In some sense, that ride was over. He knew some of his friendships here would fade with time, but he was positive others would endure. But which way would things go with Kat? He'd been working so hard at avoiding her lately, thinking it was the best way to move on and erase the feelings he had for her, but they'd not diminished one bit. He loved her just as much now as he ever had. How long did it take to fall out of love? Starbuck wasn't sure if anyone could answer that question.

Grabbing a big blanket he'd not yet packed, as well as a flashlight, his cell phone, and keys, Starbuck left the school and made a trek to the beach. His feet were bare, which was how he preferred it, and when they finally felt sand squishing all around them, a calmness washed over him. Starbuck wondered what the beaches were like in Japan. He wondered about the people too. Fuck, what if none of them spoke any English?

Letting the folded blanket drop to the sand, he plopped down next to it, his legs stretching out. Starbuck used the beam of the flashlight to search the surf, trying to spot Vegas swimming out there, but the water's surface was only moved by waves, no animals to be seen. He hoped he'd get to say goodbye to his 'foster daughter', also hoped Kat would arrive soon so he could bid her a proper farewell. What all 'proper' entailed, he wasn't sure. He just knew he needed to see her before leaving.

Who:  Ana and Xander
What:  Twin switcheroo for a beat down
Where:  Blades - Swords class

Well, Xander had certainly seemed interesting in the journals.  And from what Ava had told her, he was interesting all around.  Especially, where it counted.  Hehe.  But none of that would get him out of the beat down she had promised.  She had no skill with a blade, and since he was already in the class, she could only assume he had more skill.  But that was fine.  She could still try, and that was the whole point.  While she enjoyed succeeding, it was all the thrill in getting there.  Hell, she was no grand street racer, but she still did it, and enjoyed it.  She had enough money that it was no real loss when she did lose.

In any case, she and Ana had worn matching outfits for today, not that anyone had usually noticed whenever they'd pulled switcheroos in outfits not even remotely resembling the other.  So, it was a bit geektastic that they matched on the first day.  People would get over it.  Besides, didn't guys lust over having twins in bed?  Ew.  As if she'd sleep with her sister.  That was just wrong.

Soon as class started, Ana listened for roll call.  Luckily, having a new student, the instructor did a roll call, and Ana noticed the face that matched the name.  Oh, and it was such a pretty face.  When they were told to split up for practice, Ana made her way over to Xander.  "Well, well - you wouldn't mind giving an old friend a warm welcome, would you?" she nearly pouted, giving him a blatant once over.  "I do need a partner, after all."

Who: Lily and Ana
When: After sunset
Where: Around town
What: Vampire meets Vampire

As the rain pitter pattered heavily against her window, Lily slumbered peacefully in her bed. It took a loud crash of thunder that lightly shook the walls to finally wake her up. The sun was setting on the horizon as she sat at the edge of her bed, yawning and rubbing at her eyes gently. She had spent the entire morning finishing the homework that would be due the next day (legasp!) and had fallen asleep hours before the rain really started to come down. As much as she wanted to crawl back under the covers and spend the rest of the day being lazy, she had some shopping that needed to be done. She wasn't expecting to receive anything from anyone on Friendship Day, so the bracelet and earrings that were waiting for her in her room was a surprise. Both Alice and Vivian had been extremely nice and helpful upon her arrival and she wanted to get something for them in return.

The town outside of the school was pleasant and it was nice that the shops stayed open later for her kind. She would have gotten something for the two women while she was shopping for gifts for her sire, but she wasn't exactly sure if they considered her a friend, just yet. They had only known each other for a short while and for some people, she would have only been considered an acquaintance; not someone they'd go out of their way to give a gift to. So here she was, popping in and out of every store, trying to figure out what to get. Normally she bought clothes for her friends, but she was horrible at guessing other people's sizes and wasn't too sure on what style they wore. She didn't want to make them feel like a child that got some awful looking dress on Christmas and had to pretend they liked it so that they wouldn't hurt the giver's feelings.

Lily peered into a window of an old jewelry shop and shrugged her shoulders as she quietly made her way in. Both Alice and Vivian had given her a piece of jewelry, so she figured she'd get them the same. Two jade bracelets had caught her attention and minutes later, she exited the shop with a slightly pleased smile on her face. She hated doing last minute shopping, so hopefully the bracelets would be a suitable enough gift. Maybe when she got back to her room, she'd do some research on the stone's symbolism and write it down on a note to give as well. It was nice when something had a meaning behind it.

Most people would call a cab in this kind of weather, but Lily was rather fond of rainy days. She enjoyed the way the air felt against her skin and it was a nice change from all the heat and humidity so she decided to walk back to the school. The young vampire hummed to herself softly as she made her way along the sidewalk, equipped with a clear umbrella and dressed in a white cashmere sweater dress and a pair of brightly colored rainboots. Thanks to her heightened senses, she was usually a lot more aware of her surroundings, but as she sidestepped to make way from one oncoming pedestrian, she ended up colliding head on with another, dropping the loads of bags in her hands to the ground. What? You didn't expect her to go shopping and not come back with a few things for herself did you?

Who: Evelyn and Xander
Where: Music Club, and then the Pit
When: Friday Late Afternoon/Evening

It had been a busy week at school, which was probably a good thing in the end. Lyn preferred to be occupied than not. And she'd met some interesting new people, and that was saying the least. Last night had been so relaxing though, especially after all the activity of the festival the day before that. She'd had the chance to indulge in a bath. The water had been cool, a nice and stark contrast to the recent weather. She had drifted off with the gentle laps of the water up to her chest. The book she had brought with her was forgotten as she dozed in and out.

Even so, when she was able to tuck herself in that night from her bathing, she found her dreams became a little more than they were before. Truly as if she had drifted outside of herself, and when she awoke she didn't exactly feel rested. As if she would have done as well just staying up all night. So vivid. It felt so real. She was half-distracted most of the day in class, and tired to the point that she was tempted to beg off. But the day actually went by fairly fast. And who couldn't muster the energy to at least get through the last day of classes for the week?

The music club meeting at the end of the day went on as planned. After the 'business' at hand she smiled and nodded as everyone else began to filter out, getting ready for their own weekends. And meanwhile Lyn looked across the room to the one other person that had planned on lingering as well. A bright red blush touched her cheeks as she actually watched Xander for the first time the entire meeting. It wasn't that she'd deliberately avoided him, but she was careful not to gaze at him too closely.

Finally, she stood, picking herself up as she moved over to him. Even so, she couldn't hide the yawn that came unbidden to her lips. "Excuse me," she said not wanting him to think it reflected on the activity at hand. She wasn't bored, just a little tired. "So. Did you finish that sheet music? Or have you been too occupied since Monday to really care," she smiled.

Who: Easton and Ita
When: Late afternoon/early evening
Where: The library

The past few days hadn't exactly been the best that Easton had ever endured, to say the very least. Frankie and her Patron had definitely helped matters, but eventually it seemed a bit too much to continue locking himself away. Of course he was hurt, he was angrier than he'd expected, but moping about wasn't going to accomplish anything. That didn't mean he was quite yet ready to head out and socialize as surely he would in time, but at least vacating his dorm room for a bit seemed like a good start. That left the question of where exactly to relocate to...the common rooms were hit or miss usually, either completely devoid of people or filled with random students who wanted a bit of space from the close confines of their dorms as well. Outside didn't really strike his fancy at the moment either and East was sure everyone would be shocked to hear that his appetite was failing a bit a the moment. That left....the library, it struck him out of the blue and seemed like the perfect solution. He was a book worm, after all, why hadn't he thought of that?

A shower was in order first, a bit of drying for those curls that had started to get a bit out of control again. Perhaps it was time for a hair cut, he mused as he dressed and grabbed his keys. He'd find a book in the library - he'd read all of the ones on his shelves, after all, and nothing seemed interesting enough to take a second trip through at that moment. Shutting off the light, he stepped into the hall and pulled closed his door, making sure to lock it behind him before he set off in the direction of the library.

He'd expected it to be rather empty, and it was, the quiet more than welcome as he entered. Of course, now came the question of what exactly would he fill his time with? He hadn't read any Molière lately and the chance to sit down and read something in French might keep his mind engaged enough to keep from wandering. Thankfully it only took a few moments to not only track down a collection of the playwright's works, but to find out of the little reading lounges that was relatively empty. Stretching out across the couch on his back, Easton cracked the book and turned his attention to the words before him. Hopefully, this would fill his time a bit better than simply moping around his room had. He had a feeling that Frankie was going to drag him kicking and screaming out of there if he didn't pull himself together relatively soon.

Who: Evelyn and Ita
Where: Lakeside in the woods
When: Tuesday, Later Afternoon


After being inside all day yesterday, there was no way that Lyn was going to subject herself to that again. Though she had an interesting conversation with a vampire, and got a lot of reading and studying done, today was her day. Everything had closed down in town fairly early, which left her with some free time and thus she had to find something else to do closer to the school. So, despite the fog cover, she decided to tip toe her way through the wooded areas close by.

Granted, it was as thick as she was warned, but Lyn had the advantage of woodland training. And the fact taht she'd come to know this particular area rather well. She could easily pick her way through the trees and brushes. Their pattern was as familiar to her as her own skin. Step here, move there, and this tree...ancient and strong. And this other, gathering it's life from underground water sources. She was getting closer.

Finding the lake wasn't hard, and it was as undisturbed as she had hoped to find it. In fact, the forest itself was eerily quiet. As if the fog had managed to surpress sound as well as some sight. She shed her top easily, revealing the bikini she had snuck on beneath her clothes. It was only moments before she was ready to slide into the water. It was still fairly hot, at least as far as this northwesterner turned Canadian was concerned. And the water was cool to the skin and welcomed.

Lyn took full advantage as she ducked her head beneath the disturbed surface, letting herself sink for a moment before rising up again and breaking through to take a fresh breath of air. She pushed her hair back and swam a little ways into it. It was days like this one, she truly enjoyed being at the school. Even the earth mage could appreciate the liquid refreshment, especially surrounded by such old beauty.

Who:  Sasha and Ita
Where:  In the marketplace
What:  Lammas celebration awesomeness
When:  Afternoon

Ita was feeling much better today.  Catalina seemed like she really was going to make sure that asshole Caibre got what he deserved, which was a relief.  She really didn't know how things would have turned out if she had tried to drown him.  She was used to fighting with her fists, and even then, she hadn't done that since middle school when everyone started getting bigger than she was.  And if Caibre ever got ahold of her, she was doomed.  She definitely couldn't best him physically.

Aside from all of that, there was a festival for food!  Ok, so harvest, but that was food.  All the wonderful fresh produce, and herbs...  And even some nifty cooking supplies.  Ita had really gotten into it earlier and she already had several bags - one was filled with hand-dipped tapers and they smelled wonderful.  It was a cute little stand, with big wax bins so she'd even tried her hand at it.  Her attempt was not nearly as pretty, but it was still fun.  Oh, and she'd gotten a pretty hand-carved mortar and pestel to grind her own herbs since she'd bought several bunches of fresh and dried herbs.  Then there were the pretty crafts, including several jeweler's stands.  She couldn't resist a pretty pair of drop earrings with freshwater pearls.

So, not even halfway through the festival, she really had quite a bit of shopping completed.  And that wasn't even counting all the cool stands, just like at a carnival or a county fair.  She had loved fair time in Maine - tractor pulls, petting zoos, all the crafts, and, of course, the food.  This was very similar, but more...  Well, just more.  The fairs were more modernized, maybe.  The crazy carnival rides and all.  This seemed much less glitz, and so much more wholesome.  She had to chuckle at that - more wholesome with demons, weres and other odd creatures running about.  Apparently.  Amused with her mental meanderings, she nearly missed spotting a familiar face.  "Sasha!" she called out as she rushed over to her friend, bags bumping into passersby.

Who: Ita and Kin
Where: Starting at the school and then off to The loft and the Pit
When: After classes

After his last class of the night, Kin hurried out of that room like a bolt of lightening. He had things to make, get ready, and meet Ita out front of the school. Was he stressing? Nooo, of course not!

Yes, yes, he was.

He was just trying to ignore it - like he tries to ignore every other emotion ( besides happiness ).

The books he had were thrown onto his bed. They will be picked up later at the whole date. A date. He was going on a date. This was how long? Too long. It was normal for him to laugh throughout the whole process of getting dressed, right? He was nervous! It had to be normal. And what he wore was a simple white buttoned up shirt - short sleeved, being it still summer and all. Black pair of jeans, though they were a bit ripped at the knees and thighs. She wouldn't mind, would she? The shirt was tucked in, so, he was looking a little presentable for a date. Even the black boots worked. Hopefully.

After getting ready which he didn't think would take over an hour, he ran down toward the kitchen to make the different types of mochi. The blood ones were made first, since those would be the simplest. Strawberry, vanilla, and chocolate went next. He even brought down a little cooler to keep them in, since ice cream was being put into the middle of that rice pastry. There was a smile upon his lips the whole time he was cooking. If he wanted to, Kin could have done all of this with his eyes closed. Been awhile, but his Grandmother always made him help her make them.

All the different mochi were placed in the container, closed tight, and put into the fridge for the time being. Cleaning the mess he made was the first thing on his mind right now. And when he looked up at the clock as he scrubbed down the counters, the longest sentence he ever said with more than one curse word came spilling out in Japanese. With the rag thrown into the sink, he grabbed the container from the fridge, slammed the door shut, and rushed his way toward the front of the school.

Hopefully he wasn't late. Hopefully she wasn't sitting out there and witing for him. And hopefully she'll like the little present he packed into his back pocket before leaving his room.

Who: Sasha & Verushka
When: Thursday (morning)
Where: Verushka's office
What: Cold War II Guidance


The girl in the mirror looked worried. Her eyes were uncertain, unfocused, her mouth was taut; her skin looked too pale to even blame on the bathroom’s callous lighting. A wayward strand of hair, stuck damply to the edge of her check. The look of it—a dark spot—reminded Sasha of something, what was it…

A coal miner’s tattoo. No, not that. Gunpowder. Yes, that was it. Firing a heavy handgun incorrectly had once left a measure of gunpowder temporarily imbedded in her cheek. Kostya had been furious; Josiah, amused. The French called such beauty marks “courage marks”, he told her. Her father had a similar small shadow on his face, so dim you could almost it or think it a trick of light. He told them it was a birthmark, and Sasha believed him then.

Sherry never did. But then her twin was always the skeptic, the sleuth. She never gave up, not till she ferreted out the meaning of every story. A real bloodhound, Papa called her.

Oh, Daddy dearest, if you only knew…

The sink porcelain was cool beneath Sasha’s palms. Too cool, actually: she was feverish. That happened sometimes if her metabolism kicked into overtime. And that happened when—stop. Don’t think about it. Don’t think about the dreams. Don’t think about the craving.

And don’t think about poor, foolish Kaspar Moreno. Kaspar, the ace, the joker, the unlikely, and mostly unconvincing, criminal. Kaspar, who bought Sasha her first real Mexican beer. Kaspar, who laughed when she explained Tex-Mex. Kaspar, who saw the sky as a doorway, never a limit. Kaspar, who wouldn’t kiss and couldn’t dance. Kaspar, who was uncouth, and brash, and funny, and her friend.

Kaspar, who had her little sister slaughtered to prove she could.

A tremor started in Sasha’s throat; she shut it down with pure willpower. The same fortitude hardened her hands, made them steady and quick as she repainted the girl in the mirror into a more recognizable icon. Foundation, eye shadow, mascara, blush, lipstick: Sasha was a veteran virtuoso with each lying, little tool. Screw the whole “warm” and “cool” colors myth, or that pale skin called for dark foundation, or the conceited “not everyone can wear read” nonsense. If you know how, Sasha recited, you can. But for a moment, the mantra failed and Sasha’s hand slowed.

Did Sherry operate under a similar motto? Did she excuse Kaspar’s murder with such logic? Did she plan to continue, like before—a familiar, sour nausea rose in Sasha’s stomach. She reigned her mind back to the task at hand, turning a critical eye over the now made-up face (good), the fixed hair (neat), the careful clothing (chic, confident).

Her silver cross gleamed against the yellow dress. Pretty, but suspicious. In a school with heavy vampire population, showing up at her guide’s office with holy jewelry on display might spark uncomfortable questions. At the very least it would plant certain doubts in the woman’s mind. Sasha didn’t want any of that tainting the first impression. Slipping off the fine chain, her fingers helplessly closed over the pendant. The bit of silver felt small and serious as a bullet in her fist. Sasha tucked the necklace away in her purse, and pushed open the bathroom door. She was running late.

Outside, Dreizen immediately rose at her reemergence. The look in his dark eyes made Sasha kneel down and spend a precious minute petting the worried beastie. “S’ok, puppy. No point running this far to fall apart now, eh? We’re made of sterner stuff—and are just too pretty to quit. Oh, yes, we are, yes we are, who’s my pretty, pretty brute?”

The Doberman nipped her hands affectionately in response. Giving his sleek head one last pat, Sasha headed off towards her guide’s office.

Sherry wasn’t supposed to know about Kaspar. That she did meant one of two things: either Sasha’s seal against their bond had weakened or her sister’s psychic ability was progressing faster than originally predicted. Luckily, there were ways to deal with both possibilities.

And it’s time I tried them out. With a little professional help, of course.

“Madame Solovyov?” Knock, knock went one determined knuckle. “It’s Susannah Hallmeyer. May I come in?”

Who: Xander and Jaida
Where: Music Clubroom
When: Tuesday night starting at 8.

The day had been entertaining, he could say that much at the very least. Much to the annoyance of certain members of the female gender, Xander always did like a little variety in his meals. He knew that sooner or later, the school would growl at him for feeding on the other students, but he really didn’t see any other way around things. Sure, he could always go to the clubs and feed off everyone, but that was far more dangerous of the options. And it wasn’t like the school kept bottled lust around like it did for vampires. So, when left with the choice of feeding off students and breaking the rules, or heading into town and risking upsetting older more powerful supernaturals, Xander picked the easier of the two options.

And he made sure he had been well fed for the evening, just so that hunger wouldn’t distract him. After all, he knew just how hot the muse was, as he shared several classes and a club with her. Even then, he knew he was going to get distracted somewhat, but hopefully it wasn’t going to be too bad. If it was, he had only himself to blame in the long run, as he knew what he was getting into. But, with the fact the song stuck in his head just wouldn’t allow itself to be finished, he figured there was no harm in trying. Worst thing that was going to happen was that he would fail with the song, but then that’d happen whether he risked it or not.

So, long before Jaida was actually supposed to meet him there, Xander was in the music clubroom. He had his laptop setup on the side, as well as a microphone. Sometimes the newest software around made things so much easier. This particular bit would create the sheet music for whatever sounds were playing at the time. It made things so much easier, as he wouldn’t have to remember each and every note and rift he did while he was creating and write it down. Or try to write without playing. That was often even more frustrating.

When Jaida did arrive, he was sitting in the back, his guitar across his lap as his fingers worked the strings. His full attention was on his music, as he strummed out a lively little tune. His eyes were closed, and he wasn’t even paying attention to the computer string, or the time. Nor would he even realize that anyone else had entered the room.