Ronan Saxon's Story

---

Ram lefted his head and closed his green eyes, soaking up the early morning sun as it bet down on the lake. Cool water sprayed in his face and a constant breeze ruffled his hair. It was perfect sailing weather and Ram had been up since dawn to make the most of it. His one man boat, named 'The Falcon', raced across the lake, skimming across the waves.

Ram opened his eyes as he drew closer to the shore. Standing up in the boat he shielded his eyes from the sunlight glistening off the water and took in the view. There, pretty as a picture, sat Northbay. It fit snuggly between the lakeshore and the hills beyond. He could make out the main street with its small array of shows on either side. There was a large amount of activity in the street, surprising for such a small town and so early on a Saturday.

Then again it was the day of the Lantern Festival. No doubt every spare hand the Elder's could rope into helping was busy putting up decorations. Ram's father Ramsey was a member of the Elders' Council so Ramses was able to get all his information first hand and fresh. The festival was officially an overdue welcome to the Greeks. Unofficially it was to try and calm down the rising animosities between the different groups in the town. As Ram's father had said, if the town could come together and enjoy this one, simple event then they would be one step closer to regaining peace and order.

Ram thought it was a vain hope. He highly doubted that bringing together the whole town into one street would solve anything. Quite the opposite really. Ram knew little of the Greeks but he had grown up with the Norse and his own Egyptian pantheon. He knew enough to understand that there would always be certain individuals who do anything but try to ease tensions.

Shaking such thoughts from his head Ram aimed the boat to shore. A moment later he pulled into the docks, jumping onto the wooden jetty with the ease of practice. He anchored his boat to the jetty, tying it securely. The day may have been calm now but Ram knew enough about Irish weather to know to predict anything. Besides, when you lived in a town of power beings you could never be sure when someone's powers would cause a little mayhem.

Standing up Ram raised his arms above his head and stretched, before straightening out his clothes. With a pleased smile he set off down the wooden walkway, heading towards the Sailing Club rooms and a much needed shower.

---

Early morning carpentry was probably not the best way to deal with a hangover, but oddly enough Mack found the rhythmic thud of his hammer strangely calming. Or perhaps he was still drunk from last night.

He had visited Northbay's singular drinking hole, the pub, the previous night. It had started as a causal beer, but three bottles of beer, four shots of vodka and who knows what else later his night had ended up much larger than anticipated. He had woken up this morning still in his clothes, his light still on and his alarm cloak blaring from under a pile of clothes.

Mack had agreed to help set up for the Lantern Festival that night. He wasn't even getting paid, but doing it as a favour to the town. Not that he minded doing it for free. Mack didn't have too many expensive habits and the rent on his tiny apartment over the supermarket was relatively cheap.

"Mack! Can you move the lanterns slightly to the left?" Ebony Aset, aunt of the three Aset girls and member of the Elders, shouted from the street. Mack, standing up on a ladder, nodded down at the woman and moved the lanterns as desired. Satisfied Ebony nodded and wondered off to oversee another part of the preparations. Left to his own devices Mack returned to hammering.

Almost finished he gave one final hammer on the nail, only his attention must have slipped because the next thing he knew a sharp pain erupted in his thumb. With a yelp he jerked his hand back, making him lose his balance in the process. His legs went out from under him, his arms pinwheeling in circles as he tried to grab at anything to keep him from falling.
Unfortunately the ladder seemed to elude him and Mack quickly found himself falling. A gust of wind blew up the street, particles of sand held in the breeze. The wind increased in strength and pressure, directing itself around the falling man. Faster than the eye could follow it had formed into a miniature wind funnel, Mack being safely buoyed in the centre. Slowly he was lowered to the ground. Only when his feet had touched concrete did a movement of his hand send the winds away, leaving a thin layer of sand behind.

'Mack, as much as I'm glad you're not hurt...' The stern voice came from Ebony Aset, her foot tapping quickly as she surveyed the tiny beach of sand that his powers had called forth. She had a broom in her hand, 'I want all this sand gone before tonight.' Thrusting it into his grasp Ebony turned and left. Dusting the light sprinkling of sand off his clothes before beginning to sweep up the street, Mack wished - and not for the first time - that his winds didn't magically summon sand when he called them.

---

The view from the hills above the town was spectacular. Asta, pausing on her descent, couldn't help but grin at the landscape. The lake was sparkling in the early morning sun, light glistened off the town roofs and there was hardly a cloud in sight. She could have stayed on the thin track that ran up the hills beyond Northbay all day, but one glance at her watch told Asta that she'd need to open the shop soon. With a last glance across the lake Asta turned and made her way, half skipping, down the track.

Most likely it was the excitement of the coming festival that had seen Asta rise so early and head up into the hills. She often went for walks, but rarely so early in the morning. Coming back down she hit the main street at it's beginning. The entrance to Northbay was decorated with a simple sign which read 'Welcome to Northbay'. Asta passed the sign, entering the main street of the town. She passed people setting up stalls, others hanging decorations and more than one person shouting out loud instructions.

Asta waved happily at Mack as she passed him. Curiously he was sweeping up sand, although where the sand came from Asta couldn't be sure. Down the street she went, dodging in and out of the workers, until she reached the Bookstore.
"Key, key key... Oh, there you are!" She muttered to herself as she dug into her cardigan pockets. The Bookstore owner had given Asta the responsibility of opening the store today and she would have hated it if she'd lost the keys already.

She pushed the door open and stepped into the dark room. The light switch was unfortunately at the other end of the store and Asta didn't fancy wondering through the dark to find it. So, holding her hand out, she summoned a small sphere of light and used it to guide her through.

Ten minutes later, the store lit, open and ready for customers, Asta sat back at the counter with a sigh of relief. From here she had a good view of the festival preparations, but instead of watching the workers outside she picked up her book 'Catch-22' and began to read. The doorbell would jingle as soon as anyone entered, meaning until then she could happily lose herself in Joseph Heller.

Lincoln was the first American president to be assassinated, though an unsuccessful attempt had been made on Andrew Jackson 30 years before in 1835. The assassination was planned and carried out by the well-known stage actor John Wilkes Booth, as part of a larger conspiracy in a bid to revive the Confederate cause... Leslie already knew the information from his book, but he had an oral report for school today, which he couldn't wait for. School had always excited him and he had been up the whole night reading the biography of Abraham Lincoln. He had written about fifty note cards so far for each chapter he read of the one-thousand pages book. "I bet most don't know that William Shakespeare made up the word assassination." The only person that could hear Leslie at the time was Leslie, and that was the person that heard him the most. He was a sociable person, but he did find it hard to talk to most of the other people in town, a majority of them weren't all that bright.

Shutting his book he chuckled, I already know every last detail in this book, yet my teacher still request I read it all by today. Leslie had read the book before once when he was in one of his middle school grades, but his teacher that it would only be fair to the rest of the class if he were to read it again. "His vice presidents were Hannibal Hamlin and Andrew Johnson, he was preceded by James Buchanan and succeeded by Andrew Johnson. Oh! and let's not forget his wife was called Mary Todd Lincoln, who was brought up into a very wealthy family." He joked with himself as he got up and walked out if his bedroom. "I'm using the bathroom!" Leslie called to whom ever was listening in the house. He did have his own restroom in his room, but he didn't like dirtying his up so he just used the family one instead.

Once entering the bathroom he went over to the shower and turned the cold water on, Nothing like a cold shower to get the blood flowing. Some people found it strange he perfected cold showers over warm or hot, but it did, maybe because there was four good facts he knew about cold showers: it's better for circulation, your hair, healthier skin, and mental benefits. Taking off all his clothes in a paced fashion he felt goosebumps emerge as his skin adjusted to the cool air.

Entering the shower he let the cold water flush over his body as he shut the shower curtain. Picking up the shampoo/body wash bottle he squeezed enough in his hand that it started oozing through his fingers. Quickly shutting the bottle by pressing it against his skin he set it back down and tried catching the jell with his now free hand. First he rubbed it through his hair, making sure to scrub good, then on his body. After letting it sit for a minute or two he watched it all off, conditioned his hair, washed that out, then got out of the shower.

When he had gotten out of the shower he had dried off then got the clean clothes he kept stored underneath the sneak then out them on: a white v-neck underneath a black blazer, black pants, white no-shoe socks, and black shoes. When done stressing he looked into the mirror, Wrinkle free. Sliding the vanity mirror open he pulled out his blue tooth brush and tooth paste. Untwisting the lid he pushed out a pea sized amount of paste to his tooth brush and then began pushing.

Spitting into the sink when he was done he put back everything where he had gotten it and walked into the kitchen. "You want something to eat?" Unsure if his brother was home or not he yelled encase to be polite. Going to the fridge he opened it to find almost nothing expect a gallon of milk, bottled water, and Chinese food. I wonder what I choose. Grinning to himself he pulled out the container and placed it in the microwave setting it to three minutes.

Beep! Beep! Beep! Pulling it out he sat down at the kitchen table and began eating. Pulling his cell phone from his pocket he went to the text screen and began typing:

To: Ramses

Hey! I'm about to leave home soon, do you want me to bring you some food?!

From: Leslie

Out of everyone in town he had found his way to like Ramses the best, probably because he was so smart.

---

Pound! Pound! Pound!

"What do you want?" Screaming at who ever was pounding on the door he picked the pillow up next to him and put it on top of his right ear as he kept his eyes closed trying to go back to sleep. "Take the trash out for me please, sweety." The voice on the other side of the door was his mom's, soft spoken and kind. Groaning he scuffed at the thought of getting up, "Tell Ram to do it, Mom." This time he was kinder, but his voice still held on to it's irritation. "You know he's out on his boat, Lulu, you took your bath last night so all you have to do is take the trash out on your way to work." He rolled his eyes when he had been called Lulu. He had always hated being called that, but for some reason with him being the youngest his family found it cute to call him that, especially his mother. Even though it annoyed him he had given up complaining for them to stop years ago, for he knew it wouldn't work.

Lucas had been up for most of the night texting a girl that he had already forgotten the name to, clearly she wasn't important enough for him to bother to remember. He liked girls that left impression, she had not been one of them, but regardless he slowly slinkied out of bed. "Fine." Lifeless was his reply as he shuffled to the bathroom in his room to see how he appeared. "Thank you, Lulu." He could hear his mom say behind the door.

Sighing he didn't reply, but just stared at himself in the mirror. Looking himself over he gave himself approval. Every night before bed he'd always put on the clothes he was going to wear the next day and always managed to smell and look fresh and wrinkle free.

Picking up his brush and hairspray he stared brushing his hair back and with ever stroke a brush of a white cloud would follow to help him keep his beautiful golden locks of hair up in a perfect curved shape.

He was wearing a grey t-shirt, blue jeans, and tennis shoes, and in his mind he looked perfect. He was a vain person and he could probably had stood there all day looking at his perfections. "You better stop staring at yourself!" Calling most likely from the kitchen he gave the comment a smirk.

Walking out of the bathroom he walked over to his nightstand to get his cellphone then left his room. The hallways was decorated with floral painted walls and pictures of him and his family. The pictures were mainly when him and his brother were younger and he didn't understand why his mom didn't just put recent pictures, Lucas was so much much attractive now than then, but she just kept the old ones instead.

When entering the kitchen he walked over to his mother who was holding a plate of grape jelly covered toast. "You know me so well, and I don't mind if I do." He said as he walked up behind his mom and took a piece from over his shoulder. Kissing his mothers forehead she laughed, "I'm your mother, I have to know everything about you.". Not everything. Giving her a smile full of food and small wave he grabbed the garbage bags next to her then exited the house.

Going around to the back he deposited the trash into their rightful cans with a sigh; he had always hated taking out the trash. It was always to smelly and annoying. Time to go to work.

---

"You get the best of both worlds! Mix it all together and you know that it's the best of both worlds!" She sang loudly as she swung back and forth in her hammock for a bed singing into a cotton candy colored hair brush. The song was by Miley Cyrus, or Hannah Montana, Ariel might have been at little to old for it, but it happened to make her happy; she was a fan of upbeat songs with fluffy and fun messages, they just caused her joy.

She had woken up hours ago and had already gotten her shower, clothes, and hair out if the way. She had been wearing a pink crepe top, with a pair of black crepe shorts, grey cardigan, black circular sunglasses, and a good chained necklace. Ariel's outfit wasn't here though, but her sisters and she had borrowed it knowing her sister wouldn't mind. The only thing that was missing was make up, which she was going to ask her sister to do for her if she was still home.

"Breakfast girls!" A thick husky voice cut through Ariel's loud music and singing. "Food!" Exclaiming so she turned off her stereo and slipped her feet into light blue converse before skipping gracefully down the stairs humming to the kitchen to eat.

"That was a nice concert up there," commented her father, "how many fans showed up this time?" There was a child like twinkle in his eyes well he smiled down at his daughter as she pulled out a wooden chair then sat down. "Millions of people showed up this time!" Giggling and grinning she shrugged her shoulders in a cute way as her father began to join in on the laughter.

Her father placed a plate in front of her with cut up eggs, sausage, and pancakes. "I wanted to cut my own food this time." Sticking out her bottom lip as she picked up her fork then stabbed it into her pancake. "Your my baby, so let me baby you." Telling her this he kissed her forehead then poured maple syrup onto her cut up pancake including the piece on her fork. It didn't take long for the pucker to turn into a huge smile as she popped the tiny square into her mouth, chewed it up, then swallowed. "Is Alyssa still home?" Ariel shrugged her shoulders as she patted her mouth with her napkin, "I'm not sure, Daddy." Telling him this he ran his fingers through her hair, "Well, I hope she joins us for breakfast."

The food on her plate was gone soon, for a small girl she could eat. Ariel enjoyed everything she'd ever eaten, and from the small amount of memory she could recall she even liked grapes, but with her being allergic she wasn't allowed to eat them anymore. She could barely remember one time eating them as a kid then having a reaction to them where she almost died. The doctors had told her parents if she got to close to them she'd get really sick and eating them would be fatal, but she still liked the taste of them though.

Looking down at her empty plate another pucker sizzled to her face. "Would you like some more?" Asking her with a British accent mocking Oliver Twist Ariel did her best not to laugh even though she wanted to, all she did was nod her head with her lip still out. "Then here, honey." Setting another big plate of cut food in front of her she clapped her hands with joy and began eating again.

Izzy awoke late in the day, typical of her when she didn't have classes. She instantly went to her phone and was almost disappointed when she saw there were no new messages, at least not from anyone important. Frowning, she made up her mind to do her very best to change that, by sending a few messages out to the people she felt she knew best, most of which who she felt either could easily be controlled, or were attractive, or she considered a friend, and that left a wide range of people.


To: Odessa, Fin, Amanda, Lucas, Bryce, Viona, Ronan, Julian, Calypso:


Hey all, your queen has awoken! So where’s everyone up to? I’m looking forward to seeing all you peeps at the festival tonight, and festivals aren’t even like my thing like at all! So you guys better be there because if I’m there alone with the village elders, heads shall roll! Lol! Will be in town fyi so feel free to meet up with me.


From: Izzy Dias

Izzy put her phone down, sat up, walked out of bed down to the small bathroom in her tiny flat and took a long bath, before dressing and heading out for town. It was nice not having to work to pay for school because you had a rich stepfather to pay for it all, Izzy had to admit, problem was, that meant a lot of people were tried down for work. Driving into town she quickly parked her car and watched as several people put together decorations, smirking almost, she couldn’t understand why anyone but criminals would work for free for something having to do with the community, but she supposed that was why she was a leader, after all, not everyone’s grandfathers Zeus, and the ruling blood certainly ran deep in Izzy.



Izzy, getting out of her car decided to look for a place to loiter around, a hobby she quite enjoyed. She wasn’t really watching where she was going however and bumped into Mack, who was sweeping sand?


“Um excuse me, but do you mind!” She snorted angrily, when he completely ignored her. Then an idea came to her. “ Hey Mack, check this out!” When she had gotten his attention she looked to the sky and caused a small stray bolt of lighting light up the sky. It was the kind that was gone in an instant and made you wonder if there was a storm or not, the ones that Liverpool had been getting frequently for the last 21 or so years. Besides, it was always fun to scare the crap out of people, and Izzy remembered somebody told her once that Mack was afraid of lighting.


Laughing to herself, Izzy walked down to the record shop and gave Julian a wink before turning to the music, trying to find some old records that would make for a great sound mix. She would flirt a little, talk a little, possibly buy something, and be on her way.




Bobby grinned to himself as he heard Asta call out, “Morning Bobby!” Followed by “I don’t drink coffee, but I’d be keen for a hot chocolate.” He watched, coming back to the front of the store, pleased that this didn’t go as badly as he thought it might. Asta helped you out almost, and he had to admit, she was a very easy person to talk to. She pulled out a bunch of euro’s and some coins (that’s the Irish currency if I’m correct) and offered them to him. “Maybe get some lemon cakes too? My shout.”


Bobby refused the money and replied. “Sure thing, I’ll buy, one hot chocolate, a tea for myself and a bunch of lemon cakes coming right up, I’ll be back.” He walked out the door before Asta could protest and ran not really thinking about anything but getting Asta’s ordered right. He ran between Daphne, Amanda and Fin, tripping himself, and said a quick “I’m terribly sorry!” and continued on his way rushing by a girl who he thought was named Layla with the same hasteful sorry before reaching the coffee shop.


When he had at last reached his destination, he found himself waiting for his sister to stop texting before she noticed him. She raised a brow.


“Um Bobby, what up? Why are you so sweaty? Where you running from those normal thugs again!? Cause I’ll cripple them I will! And you know I don’t like it when you just come to visit me.”


“Right, just, everythings fine Steph, just ah, um I was wondering if I could have a medium hot chocolate, a ice tea and two lemon cakes.” Bobby said as Stephanie’s eyes lit up before she got to work.


“Oh Bobby, who is it, who are you buying breakfast for, that’s real unlike you, well then again I guess it isn’t, your just usually too shy to-”


“It’s just Asta, nothing romantic, just, you know, just something employees do for each other once in awhile.” Bobby interrupted.


“Well ‘ere ya go Bobby, enjoy your little lunch with you employee.” Stephanie laughed a little and handed her older brother his order and watched as he ran back out shaking her head. On his way back, breathless, he stopped to catch his breath and felt his phone go off, so he one handly picked it up and read the new message.


To: Amanda Cyprus, Stephanie Ceres, Bobby Ceres, Fin Bacchus

Turns out my boss doesn't want me to work today so I have the day off... Anybody wanna hang out?


He quickly typed back a response.


To Daphne:

I would, but I’m stuck at work. Maybe later, see you at the festival. Oh and I think I’ll ask Asta if she wants to come too if that’s alright.


From: Bobby

He quickly walked inside and put down the bag he’d been carrying. “ And there you go Asta, a hot chocolate, two lemon cakes, and a ice tea.” He sat down on a box of books he probably shouldn't have sat on, and took a big gulp before finding himself stuttering.


“ So um eh w-would you um m-mind going to the f-festival later tonight w-with some of my friends and siblings. I mean you don’t have to, I just thought m-maybe it’d settle some things and we could all get to know each other.”


He winced waiting for her answer.




Stephanie sighed as her phone buzzed and flipped it out to see what was up.


To: Stephanie

Yeah, sure, sounds like fun, when would you like to meet and where?

Stephanie felt her heart thump at the message. There it was, plain as day, a messages from Antares, asking her when and where she wanted to meet up. Why the hell was she so nervous and more importantly, not already texting him back.


To: Antares

Cool, glad you can come, I was thinking we could maybe meet at the docks at around oneish, I should be done with work by then. I still have to wait for Brad and Bobby so it’ll probably be just the two of us, but it’s not like it’s a date or anything so yah. See you at the docks:)



From: Stephanie

Stephanie pressed send and looked up to see Bobby, looking rather crazy. She smiled served him and returned to her phone, an unusual thing for her to do while at work, but today to her it seemed at least, it was like a holiday.


To: Amanda Cyprus, Stephanie Ceres, Bobby Ceres, Fin Bacchus

Turns out my boss doesn't want me to work today so I have the day off... Anybody wanna hang out?

Lucky, she muttered to herself before repiling.


To Daphne:


Sorry, but I’m stuck here till one, we can hang later though.


From: Stephanie.

Stephanie put down her phone only to pick it up again and read yet another message.


At work right now, slow as hell. I’ll catch up with you later at the festival. Promises.

She quickly typed back:


K see you later at the fest, don’t be too sad, you're surrounded by music, I’m surrounded by coffee and baked goods, not quite as entertaining ;)

Then she really did go back to work, shoving her phone in her pocket as a customer came in.

Ronan woke up with a start when he heard the front door slam, for a moment he was confused and took some time to straighten himself out and find his glasses. He had definitely had a bit too much to drink last night. It had been a long, excruciatingly boring day at the paper and all he’d wanted to do afterwards was relax a bit. The throbbing in the front of his skull confirmed that perhaps he had relaxed more than he had needed to.

Finally rising from his mess of a bed he stumbled to the bathroom, still steamy from someone else’s showers. Ronan assumed it was his brother; Leslie had always been annoyingly cheerful in the mornings and ready to start the day. Ronan was quite the opposite. He didn’t actually speak to anyone until he showered and had at least two cups of coffee. Hopping into the shower he let the warm water beat the ache out of his head and muscles and felt as if he could stay beneath the showerhead the rest of the day or at least until the hot water ran out.

Knowing that he’d be late if he dallied any more he slipped from the shower, shaved, brushed his teeth and quickly dressed. Racing down the stairs he stopped in the kitchen to chug a glass of orange juice, which did not make him want to vomit, thank the gods. After rinsing his glass and placing it in the dishwasher he grabbed his phone from the counter and noticed that he’d all ready received a text.

To: Odessa, Fin, Amanda, Lucas, Bryce, Viona, Ronan, Julian, Calypso:


Hey all, your queen has awoken! So where’s everyone up to? I’m looking forward to seeing all you peeps at the festival tonight, and festivals aren’t even like my thing like at all! So you guys better be there because if I’m there alone with the village elders, heads shall roll! Lol! Will be in town fyi so feel free to meet up with me.

Grinning, he rolled his eyes a bit at the hyperbolic text he received from the Greek girl; she was fairly new as all the Greeks were. As a matter of fact that was what the whole festival was for. Welcoming the new arrivals. Of course his mother was all ready at the festival grounds, she was an elder and took her responsibilities seriously, and something she had obviously passed on to her children.

My mother would kill me if I didn’t show. As soon as I’m through making sure the paper makes sense tonight I’ll be on my way. If you’re a good and kind friend you’ll have a drink waiting for me.

Ronan quickly texted back as he walked out the back kitchen door, taking care to lock it before clambering down the steps and out to his dusty car. Shoving papers and folders out of his way he started the beat-up vehicle and made his way to the office. He knew most people had the day off, lucky bastards, but the newspaper had to be printed every day. Such was life.
As the thin, slightly anxious young man made his way into the building he waved a greeting to the skeleton crew who were already in attendance, grabbed a cup of sludge like black coffee and wandered back to his lonely little corner. Quickly he settled in at his desk, which he usually shared with another. Looking around he pushed his thick framed glasses on top of his head and pulled out his phone quickly texting his brother.

To: Leslie

Did mom sucker you into setting up the festival today? I’m working a short day, meet up later, yeah?

From: Ronan Saxon

Ronan was very much a fan of his older brothers and enjoyed spending time and hanging out with him, although sometimes Leslie came off a bit overbearing, Ronan supposed that he would probably be the same if their roles were reversed. Family took care of family and that’s just the way it was. Settling back into his chair he switched on computer and began to immerse himself in work. The quicker he could get things done the sooner he could leave.






Odessa had been up and at the gym by seven that morning, having signed up for an insanely early kickboxing class. Which she now thought was maybe not her greatest idea. Considering that she usually worked until four in the morning and was often a bit tipsy when she made it home eventually sometimes making it to class seemed nearly impossible. Yet the Greek girl took her commitments seriously and she’d already paid for them. She really couldn’t afford to not go.

After spending an hour beating the stuffing out of a bag she was properly awake and energized. Being the descendent of Ares definitely had its perks. She was inherently strong, fast and sturdy which definitely came in handy with a personality like Odessa’s. More often than not her mouth started trouble and she was more than happy to let her fists finish it.

Finished for the day Odessa beamed as the instructor complimented her skill and the fact that she was such a quick study. She hadn’t expected any less but it definitely brightened her day which in turn meant that for now her normal aggression and hostility was turned down a notch. It also helped that she just finished trying to beat an inanimate object to death. Taking a moment to read over the text Izzy had sent her, she laughed and figured she’d see her friend in town, or at the very least the festival.

Quickly showering and changing she grabbed her bag and left the gym and decided to head into town to grab breakfast from the restaurant. It was cheap, especially with her employee discount. Lucky for her, her boss owned the pub and the grill and you couldn’t beat half-discounted omelets. As she walked up the street towards her destination she took in all of the preparations going on around town for the festival tonight.

As she approached the restaurant she noticed a few of her fellow Greeks standing outside the restaurant along with a girl she believed was named Layla. Sticking her hands into the pockets of the light cardigan she was wearing she pushed her large sunglasses on top of her head and stopped to say hello.

“Morning everyone, you’re all looking bright and chipper. Anyone actually helping set the festival up or are we just passive spectators?” Odessa asked with a wry grin.

---

---

Chione closed the book, rubbing her temples as she looked up and out of the cafe. She could a small group of people that had gathered there. With a sigh she placed her text book in her messenger and left the cafe, hands shoved into her pockets. Mack was down the street sweeping up the last of the sand when Izzy Dias bumped into him. Chione's lips thinned as she watched her blame him for the collision before summoning a fork of lightning. The Dias twin was easily one of the few Greeks that Chione had taken in instant dislike towards to. Her teeth clenched against each other she resisted the urge to yell at her. She didn't care if her ancestor was Zeus, blood did not excuse actions.

She shook her head and continued walking, making a beeline between the people towards her home. She watched as one of the Aset girls, Jade, came rushing past on her bike, calling out to Mack. Chione whirled around in shock as the sound of the crash reached her ears. In the time it took her a few steps towards the crash site Jade and the person she had crashed into were already surrounded by a small group of people. She could hear Jade's voice, profusely apologizing to the man. Seeing that all was under control Chione shrugged and made her way home, placing the messenger bag on her coffee table, she would have no need of it for now.

Checking her schedule she noted that she had to work from three till seven. That left the rest of the night open to her to enjoy the festival. The small smile that had worked its way onto her face during this thought suddenly vanished. To enjoy the night fully she would need to hang around people, she could only look at the stalls, games and bands for so long on her own. There weren't many people in the town he called 'friend'. It was almost certain that her brother already had something planned with his multitude of friends so she wasn't going to make herself a burden towards him.

She paced her living room, coming up with only three people she considered friends. Gwyn, Ronan and Ram. She smiled to herself as she pulled out her phone, chances were they were all going to be busy, but there was no harm in asking right?

To: Gwyn, Ronan, Ram
Hello, I was just wondering what everyone was up to for the festival tonight? Anyone want to meet up? I have to work from three to seven, but after that I'm free.

Pleased with her attempt at socializing she pocketed the phone and headed back outside with no particular destination in mind. Maybe she'd help set up. It was too nice to waist the day indoors.

Clicking the send button she winced. She didn't text him to often, but when she did it was always full of unsure statements, dots, and the ending love you. "I think I'm going to die!" She told herself quietly. Fear of the horrible word no rumbled within her, something she did not like, but with the two of then being kind of close friends, or at least she thought, he'd say yes and want to spend some time with her.

While Ariel had been typing she realized Alyssa was talking, missing most of it she caught the ending, "Step into my office." Quickly cheering up from her nervousness she did what her sister said with a smile and entered the bathroom. "Close your eyes." Being told so as she was sitting down on the stool. Shutting her eyes she felt relaxed as the brushes swooped here and patted there. I wonder what Antares will say... She wasn't the type that got nervous to often, but sometimes she did and she defiantly did not like the feeling.

"There you go, squirt. Whatcha think?" Looking into the mirror she saw how her eyes and cheeks were glowing from the pinks that's had been applied. ."Who am I kidding? It looks great, Ariel. Text me later if you want to hang out okay. In the meantime, text Antares. I'll see you later babe. Ariel giggled at her sisters reaction to what she had did, "Thank you, I look very pretty." She was pleased with what her sister had done, because Ariel knew she couldn't have done better, but soon her happy mellowed down, "Bye love you, Alyssa." Sometimes Ariel wished her sister didn't have any friends so they could spend more time together; Ariel just hated seeing her sister leave her, but she had a life.

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"You know me too well." He watched as Ramses picked what he wanted and started to eat. Grinning he dipped another onion ring and took a bite. "As your best friend it's my duty to know you. If I knew nothing about you then well... I would be a terrible best friend." Leslie had known a lot about Ramses, they had become pretty close ever since they were kids, but Ramses had always been closer to Ronan until two years ago when Leslie had returned from America.

"I'll treat you something tonight at the festival." With food lodged in his mouth all he could do was shake his head no rapidly. "You know when I do something for you I want nothing in return, but your happiness." "I could shout you a ride on the Ferris wheel." Grinning he let the nudge push him over some before returning to his normal sitting potion. "You're talking to a guy that stayed like three days in the Cinderella castle... not the manliest thing I've ever done, but rides are always fun." Knowing his friend as well as he did he probably wouldn't want to ride any rides, but Leslie would force him to. "I haven't been to a festival since I was fourteen, so you have to ride every ride with me and at least pretend you're enjoying it." With a light hearted voice every word he said was true though, Ramses would ride all the rides.

Buzz, buzz! Reaching his pocket he pulled out his phone and read the text from his brother. Now you're awake. He thought to himself and began to type:



"It was Ronan asking if I was helping at the festival, are you?" As he asked he began taken off his jacketed and then his swear soaked v-neck. "I picked a horrible day to wear black. Joking as he fanned his shirtless self with a napkin. Looking out across the lake the water looked tempting, but he had no swim clothes with him, I could just swim in my underwear, it's not like I've never changed in front of him before. "I'm going for a swim." Standing up he began talking off his shoes, socks, and pants as he was walking towards the end of the pier. Stopping he took in a long breath before jumping in.

Splash! When first entering he opened his eyes to look underwater as a few fish swam by. It was calm and quiet down there, but he needed air so he popped his head back up to the surface. "Come in, the water feels amazing!" Shouting he pushes his arms to keep him afloat and maneuvered himself so he could see Ramses.

---

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Viona teetered on the ladder she was standing on as she strung up yet another lantern. When she finished with that one, she put her hands on her hips and paused to take a breath. Her phone vibrated in her back pocket and she reached back to take it out. The screen of her phone lit up as she read the message.



She couldn't help but smile at the ditzy blonde's text. Whenever you were with Izzy, you were sure to have a good time. She needed that today, after all, it was a festival. Her thumbs flew over the touch screen as she replied to Izzy.



She slid her phone back into her pocket and reached up to sting up another lantern. You couldn't tell now, since it was mid morning, and the lanterns weren't lit, but the street would look beautiful at night when the festival started. She had been working for awhile now, helping with lanterns and decorations. The street was full of noise as people worked to put together their stalls. "I should head to work..." she thought to herself.

As she lowered herself from the ladder, she almost fell down when she missed a step. Her hands latched onto the sides as the ladder wobbled and steadied itself. "Gods, I should be more careful." Stepping off the ladder, she took her phone out and started typing.



She returned her phone to her pocket and headed towards the restaurant. She ran a hand through her long curls as she neared the building. Looking up, she saw a small group gathered near the restaurant, and she recognized a few faces. "Hey guys," she said with a grin. She opened up the door to the restaurant and walked in, heading towards the kitchen. She put on the small white half apron, reaching to tie in behind her as she walked back out. She took out a notepad and went to table, with Fin, Amanda, Deliliah and Tony. "Wonder where Odessa went," she thought as she remembered seeing her outside. "Hey, what would you guys like?" she asked with a smile.

---

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Jade stood quietly behind Alaura as she took control of the situation- like she did every situation."How can we ever repay you?" Alaura asked, and Jade looked to her with a bit of annoyance. It was over just a quick as it had flared, and she was back to staring at the ground. "No, nothing. I don't need to be repaid," Mack replied, adding "I'm glad you're alright Jade." Jade looked up at him and offered a shy, embarrassed smile. Not soon after, she felt a warmth on her hand and turned to notice Quincy, who she offered the same smile to. He leaned in towards Alaura, informing her that he was there to help if she needed. As always. Jade stared at Quincy for a moment as Liam walked up. Quincy was so in love with her sister, so willing and desperate to help or leap at her command. Jade wondered if Alaura even knew about the effect she had on Quincy.


"Okay... Hoping everything is alright. Maybe we should bring Jade back to her home... I know that she probably doesn't want to stay here at least," Liam offered, speaking to her sister as if she weren't there. Jade looked up at him then, but not to glare. She was too numb to be mad at anyone right now, even though she was feeling more and more claustrophobic by the second. Mack began to nod, which drew her attention back to him as he said, "Do you need anything? I can swing by the supermarket and pick up any supplies..." "I don't think there's--" "The doctor said I need prenatal vitamins," Jade cut in, speaking up as she took her hand away from her older sister. "And, I'm pregnant, not crippled. Alaura, don't you have festival decorations to be putting up?" She sighed, aware of the annoyed tone coming out in her voice. She didn't want all these people around-- she just wanted Gwyn. Right now, that's all she wanted- to curl up beside her and die if that'd make a smile lift Gwyn's cheeks.

Jade shook away the thoughts of her ex as she placed a hand on her steadily growing stomach. Just as the doctor had said; her womb was inflating steadily, even as she stood in front of her friends now. She could feel milimeter by milimeter expanding, and her shorts already starting to feel tighter. "Just go back to decorating for the festival, I'm sure they need the help. My house isn't far- I'll walk. I want to walk, Alaura. I need some time to think. Mack, if you could maybe bring the vitamins over later, or give them to me when you see me at the festival- yes, I'm still going, that'd be great." She glanced around once more to everyone standing, staring at her. "Thank you all for being so worried, but I'm healed now, and I'm okay. I was just a little shook up, but Mack totally took care of me so I'm good now, okay? I'll see you all at the festival." With that, and before anyone else could chime in to stop her, she walked out of the clinic and started up the sidewalk to go back to her townhouse, which was as she said fairly close by.

As her door closed behind her, she leaned up against the frame and slowly slid to the floor, sobbing as she held her growing stomach. This was not how she had wanted anyone to find out- at all. It was all just too much: the loss of her girlfriend, not knowing who the father was, everyone finding out that she was pregnant, the idea of facing everyone that night with a beach-ball for a stomach, but above everything else-- almost losing her children. All five of them. Five of them. The idea made her nauseous, and she curled into herself, holding her stomach gently as she wept for everything she had lost.

When she was finally done feeling sorry for herself, she clawed her way back up her door to walk into her bathroom. She slowly stripped down, still sniffling and crying a little as she stared at her naked reflection. Her stomach welled in front of her as her red, puffy, eyes trailed over her form. She had been so beautiful once- now she looked like a cartoon character that had swallowed a beach ball. With a sigh, she showed and dug through her clothes for a larger pair of shorts, and a loose enough top to flow over her new stomach. Luckily the butterfly print managed to cover all of her skin, but it was painfully evident that she was pregnant. There would be no hiding it now. Figuring that she should at least tell her father, Jade scooped up her car keys and headed out of the door. She was about to get in, when she changed her mind. She could walk there, too. She lived on the other side of main street as it was, so it would just be a short walk to the bakery. Before she left, she placed a postit note on her door, in case Mack tried to drop the vitamins off at her house.

With a heavy heart, she put her keys, wallet, and cell into her brown shoulder purse. Walking felt significantly different now that she had so much weight toward her front. She found herself having to lean back just slightly, and felt very comfortable with one hand on her stomach. As she walked down the street, she noticed that most of the decorations had been set up, and the road had officially been blocked off. Good thing she hadn't taken her car. As she entered the bakery, her father came around the counter with a very serious look on his face. "It's been a long time, Bella," he said, his accent still as heavy as the day she was born. She couldn't help but smile warmly, tears swelling in her eyes. "I know, Papa." "I see you bring good news," his tone lifted with his smile as he walked over to her and put his arms around her. "I bet Guinevere is very excited," he chuckled. Bella started to cry all over again at the mention of her ex, throwing her arms around her father in a tight embrace.

She spent the next thirty minutes filling him in on everything he had missed over the past year, and apologized for being so secretive and distant. Mr. Aset sat stone silent on the other end of the patio table, ignoring the coffee one of his helpers had brought them. "You mean you don't know who the father is?" His tone was gentle, but firm, and from years of listening to that combination she could also hear the underlining disappointment. "I've tried to remember, Papa... I really have, but I just... I can't remember at all. I'm scared, Papa. I don't know what to do." Mr. Aset nodded slowly, holding the ultrasound picture in his hand fondly. "That's exactly how I felt when I first found out your mother was pregnant with Alaura. I was terrified. But, I found a way, little bird. Just as you will. You said Alaura already knows of this? Yes, well, then you will certainly have a lot of support. I'm sure April will be happy to hear the news as well." Jade smiled in awe of her father's calm demeanor. He was always so cool- so collect. No wonder Alaura always had her head on her shoulders.

"I have to get back to the bakery, little bird. Lots of baking to be done, the festival is starting soon. You just try to have fun, and relax a little. All there is to be done now is prepare." Jade nodded and stood as her father did, accepting a kiss to each of her cheeks. She felt significantly better. With renewed hope for herself, she made her way through main street which was lined with rides, vendors and food stands now- all frantically trying to set up for the festival. She had been signed up to work the kissing booth by Alaura weeks ago, and she felt a small twist in her stomach. No one was going to want to kiss a pregnant girl. She helped herself to a large pretzel, as she stood on the side walk and pulled out her phone to text for emergency back-up. She couldn't tell Alaura that she wouldn't be able to make it- she'd have to find a replacement.

To: Ariel, Asta, Julian, Leslie, Ronan, Bryce, Chione, Ramses, Fin, Daphne, Izzy, Stephanie.
Message: [GROUP MESSAGE] Hey everyone! I know this is super last minute, but I was supposed to work the kissing booth and get it organized, but... something came up. I have the following time slots that need to be filled, and I would love you forever if you could take a shift? 6:00-6:30, 7:00-7:30, 8:00-8:30, 9:00-9:30, and 10:00-10:30. The thirty minutes between each time the booth will hold raffles- the money goes to the school playground! Martha ((NPC)) will be taking care of the raffles, so after your thirty minutes is up you're free (: Let me know, guys! Again, thanks so much!

Jeeze, what a long text. She sighed a little, and continued to text since she had nothing better to do- and because she was a little lonely.

To:Layla
Message: Thanks for checking on me earlier. I'm okay, by the way. (: I hope we can get to hang out tonight.

To:Gwyn
Message: We need to talk. Please. It's important. - Jbird.

To:Mack
Message: Hey, I don't know if you got my note on the door or not but I'm already downtown for the festival! I went to see my dad at the bakery. He took the news well. Thanks for being so cool earlier, and for taking me to the hospital. I'm glad I have a friend like you.

To: Quincy
Message: Hey... can you do me one more favor? Keep Alaura busy tonight at the festival. I really don't need her breathing down my neck, worried the whole night. I want to have some fun, and she needs to have some fun. I know you're the man for the job. Ps- Thanks again for today, Quincy... meant a lot.

Julian smiled brightly at his twin at the mention of Alyssa and the pub, he could care less about lighting a lantern and setting it loose but he did care whether or not they enjoyed themselves. Tonight would probably involve some sort of mischief, ample amounts of alcohol and apparently two very attractive girls to distract him. At least if Ava decided she wanted to join them, which judging by the way she kept looking at his sister and himself was a distinct possibility.

“Complacent, us? If only, imagine how boring that’d be. The thought makes me shudder.” He replied with mock fear, his heavy lidded blue eyes going wide with fake shock. Turning his attention back to Ava he watched her quietly, a lopsided grin splashed across his face as she asked to bum a cig. Digging for the crumpled pack in his pocket he pulled them out and produced a single cigarette. Stuffing the pack back into his front pocket he took a step closer to Ava, obviously appreciating her presence and held out the smoke for her to take.

“I suppose I can part with one, for a friend.” Julian said charmingly, his voice a low rumble, as he regarded the girl in front of him. Pulling a lighter from his other pocket he produced a flame for Ava. He was nothing but a perfect gentleman after all.
He took this opportunity to glance at his sister, another wicked smile crossing his classically handsome face, as he noticed the slight change in her demeanor. “I don’t know, Calypso, takes a special sort of person to hang with us. Fearlessness, a sense of adventure, an I don’t give a fuck type of attitude...what do you say Ava? Think you can handle it”Julian finished, cocking his head to the side and casually observing the brunette through a curtain of his flyaway blond hair as he finished his cig and deftly flicked it away.

It was then that he received a text, taking moment to fish his phone out of his pocket he quickly glanced at the message before rolling his eyes and furrowing his brow. He knew Jade, they weren’t extremely close but he supposed he liked her well enough, but a kissing booth? Him? She was aware that most everyone in town detested him and his ancestor, right?
“Listen to this.” He said, preparing to read the message aloud.

Hey everyone! I know this is super last minute, but I was supposed to work the kissing booth and get it organized, but... something came up. I have the following time slots that need to be filled, and I would love you forever if you could take a shift? 6:00-6:30, 7:00-7:30, 8:00-8:30, 9:00-9:30, and 10:00-10:30. The thirty minutes between each time the booth will hold raffles- the money goes to the school playground! Martha will be taking care of the raffles, so after your thirty minutes is up you're free (: Let me know, guys! Again, thanks so much!

“She wants me to man the kissing booth, which has probably got to be one of the worst ideas ever, yeah? Should I do it? Imagine one of those prissy old women, always railing against Loki, standing in line so I can kiss them for charity. Mum would be so proud.” Julian finished with a laugh, certainly entertaining the notion, at least for now.




Ronan pushed his glasses off his face and pinched the bridge of his nose, he could already feel a bit of a headache coming on, probably from his hangover rearing its ugly head yet again. Sighing he pushed away from his desk and went to retrieve more coffee, knowing that if he didn't he’d probably pass out at his desk and completely miss the lantern festival after which his mother would make his life hell. She took her responsibility as an elder very seriously.

As he trudged back to his desk, two reporters were waiting to hand over their articles and photos to be proofread and confirmed before being published. Flipping his glasses back onto his face he sat down with a plop and looked up at the two people standing over him. “Well, let’s get on with it then. Although I will remind you we have deadlines for a reason.” He said a bit tersely looking at the clock, they were really cutting it close and he didn't relish having to rush through and make sure everything was as it should be.

For the next hour and a half he worked steadily making sure that every article, column and picture in his care was properly confirmed and ready for publishing. When Ronan finally handed off his finished projects he decided to call it a day and finally took a moment to look at his phone.

To: Ariel, Asta, Julian, Leslie, Ronan, Bryce, Chione, Ramses, Fin, Daphne, Izzy, Stephanie.

Message: [GROUP MESSAGE] Hey everyone! I know this is super last minute, but I was supposed to work the kissing booth and get it organized, but... something came up. I have the following time slots that need to be filled, and I would love you forever if you could take a shift? 6:00-6:30, 7:00-7:30, 8:00-8:30, 9:00-9:30, and 10:00-10:30. The thirty minutes between each time the booth will hold raffles- the money goes to the school playground! Martha ((NPC)) will be taking care of the raffles, so after your thirty minutes is up you're free (: Let me know, guys! Again, thanks so much!

Frowning slightly at the thought of having to kiss strange people, he weighed his options and quickly texted back.

To: Jade

Sure thing. I can do the 8-8:30 slot for you if you’d like?

Quickly he pressed send, and figured he’d face his decision when the time came. He knew his mother wanted him to be a part of the festival and it had hurt her feelings a bit when he begged off because of work. Ronan figured he’d kill two birds with one stone. Help out a friend and make his mother happy…every boy’s dream. Sometimes he swore he was the most boring person on the planet.

Scrolling further into his phone he smiled shyly as he read the text he received from Viona.

To: Ronan

Hey, I better see you at the festival tonight~

Taking a moment to think about what he wanted to say to the friend he’d had a crush on since they were teenagers he deftly typed out a message before sending it on it’s way.

To: Viona

Of course I’ll be there; I’ll be manning the kissing booth apparently. If you’re lucky I’ll give you one for free.

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Viona smiled as she wrote down one Dr. Pepper for Tony, and the rest of the orders from the other three. "They'll be right out," she said and went into the kitchen. She gave to order to the chef, and came back out with the food balanced in her hands. She set the food down at the table, and a glass of Dr. Pepper in front of Tony. "Let me know if you guys need anything else," she said.

A couple hours later, she saw Alaura and Terrence waiting to be seated. At the request of a table for two, she walked them to a booth. "Have you been busy today?" "Not really, I guess it's because a lot of people are helping out with the preparations." She placed down two menus and took out her notepad. "Well, I hope you get off in time to get to enjoy the festival. We've really worked hard on it, and besides- you deserve a little fun. How's your family?" "My shift ends before five, so I'll definitely go to the festival. My family is doing fine, my brothers are annoying as ever, haha." Alaura and her didn't talk much, but when they did, she was a sweetheart. Terrence seemed a little quiet during the whole exchange.

She wrote down Alaura's order of a caesar salad with grilled chicken and a water with lemon, and Terrence's of a turkey club and a glass of water. "They'll be out in a moment." she assured as she sauntered off to the kitchen. Viona came back out with their food and drinks a few minutes later, and set them down in front of them. "Enjoy~" Her phone buzzed in her back pocket and she took it out to check it.


She smiled and leaned against an empty table as she typed back.



Sliding the phone back in her pocket, she went back to work.

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Mack was shaking his head as a pair of helpers moved a beam of wood into place,
"Watch where you're..." He started to warn the pair before, crash! the beam hit another pile of poles and sent them rolling across the road. Luckily most of the street was blocked off from pedestrians so there was little need for Mack to run screaming after them. Instead he simply pointed after them to the pair that had caused the crash.

A moment later a voice made him turn and he found Dehlilah Cyprus standing behind him.
"Um, hey I didn't want to interrupt but um can you ask the girl, my friend ran into if she's ok?" She sounded nervous, or perhaps she was just breathless from running across the street.
"Jade. Her name is Jade." Mack said. He felt uncharacteristically defensive of Jade. He was a friendly guy, he didn't take too many things to heart and was easily able to brush off most insults. But the crash this morning had almost cost Jade her babies and in his eyes Dehlilah had been more concerned with getting Antonio into the restaurant than caring for the hurt girl. Still, the fact that she was here asking after Jade meant that Mack's voice wasn't cold, it was simply lacking its usual warmth.

"I would have helped, but I didn't know if you'd want us... To put our noses in your business," Mack wondering who 'our' was meant to be, Dehlilah and Antonio? Mack shook his head slightly. He was about to argue that it had only been 'his' business because he had been concerned, but decided to hold his tongue. He liked Dehlilah well enough, from the little he had seen of her around town. Besides a moment later she looked over her shoulder. She said goodbye, placed a hand on his arm and added "Thanks, seriously," before leaving.

After she left Mack turned back to the set-up, shaking his head as he saw that in the few minutes his attention had been elsewhere all chaos had erupted...



Mack sat back, enjoying the cool beer in his hand as he watched the cordons open and the first residents enter the festival. Mack was at one of the stalls set up outside the bar, fairy lights twinkled above his head and the setting sun was caught and held by the string of mirror-like, plastic crystals that were twined around a nearby lamp post. Soon enough the whole street would be lit by the fairy lights and street lamp, creating a magical setting for the night's festivities.

Mack's hangover of the morning was well and truly gone. In fact, if he found the right people he wouldn't be against making an event out of tonight. He finished his beer and signaled for the bar keep who passed him another. He popped it open, appreciating the tsk of goodness being released.
"To a good night." He said to the bar keep, tilting his bottle in a salute. He returned his gaze to the street, took a sip and leaned back, waiting for the night to begin.

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Soon after Viona purchased the bracelet, she passed a stall selling small novelty toys. She continued down the street at the slow pace till she felt a tap on her shoulder. "Hey girlie. How are you liking the festival so far?" Viona turned to see Xander and smiled broadly at his greeting. "Hey Xander!" She felled into step with him as they talked. "So far, pretty good. I bought this bracelet," she said, holding up her wrist to show him. The little lightning bolts dangled from the chain, seeming to dance. "My sister decided to go make kissy faces with her boyfriend and I've been left to fend for myself." She laughed as he feigned pain, and tucked some curls behind her ear. "Well, it's lucky you found me," she replied.

"So what's your story? Did you get dragged here with anyone, or did you come on your own for fun?" "My story huh? I came on my own~" She paused at a stall, before quickening her pace to catch up with Xander again. "I got roped into helping set up the decorations, so I thought my reward should be a night of food and fun." You supposed to be meeting anyone around here?" "Sort of, I'm meeting Ronan later tonight, and I was going to talk to Bobby if I saw him." She turned to Xander and pointed. "But for now, I'm all yours. What do you want to do?"

Odessa smiled with her mouth closed and swallowed her food before laughing at Fin and his pantomime of book reading. To look at him one would think that he’d actually read something before which Odessa almost doubted seeing his strict aversion to it. Pushing away her now empty place she nodded happily to his question and grinned brightly at the handsome boy next to her. “It was delicious and I could probably eat two more plates’ worth, but a girl’s gotta watch her figure. Saving room for festival food is very hard, but totally worth it.” Odessa explained, patting her flat and firm midsection, her thoughts drifting to the festival that would be starting quite soon. She had to work that night but not until ten or so she’d definitely get to enjoy the best of the festivities albeit she’d probably be enjoying them alone as per usual. Unless…

“Speaking of the festival, what are your plans for later? I was gonna go stag but if I can rope someone into braving some rides with me I think all the better, right? What do you think, want to meet up later? I’ll win you a stuffed animal if you say yes.” Odessa offered, her big blue eyes slipping into puppy dog mode, of course if he said no it wouldn’t be that much of a disappointment. Odessa was a divisive personality and most people either hated or loved her, her and Fin has always seemed to get along just fine so she was confident in the fact that they’d probably enjoy each other’s company. At least for the evening and if they could gather up more people, well the more the merrier.

“Anyway, if you’re up for it, let me know. I’ll be at the pub probably, or you can text me.” The greek girl offered confidently, another smile gracing her face as she reached into her bag and pulled out money to pay and tip for her meal. “Well, I’m off. It was excellent as usual; I’ll see you guys later.” She finished brightly, taking her leave of the restaurant and heading back to her small apartment to shower and change.

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After a shower and a tiny nap, Odessa finally decided to get ready for the festival and quickly dressed in a bright blue summery dress that played up the blue in her eyes. Applying a small amount of makeup she slipped into a pair of sandals and headed out the door. Hopping into her car she drove the five minutes to the pub and parked in the employee parking lot and took in the sights of the fest. It had really come together and it actually had the ideal effect of making Odessa feel welcomed. Not wasting another moment she quickly entered the festival grounds, obtained her lantern and wondered where on earth she should start.




Julian couldn’t help but join his sister in her abrupt laughter; the thought was really quite ridiculous. A good majority of the people in town either hated him or were afraid of him he doubted they’d be happy to see his face behind the kissing booth. Of course that only made him want to take part, he was always one for subverting the expectations of others and what better way than to be charitable, helpful lad. Thinking it over for a brief moment as Ava flirted shamelessly with his sister he quickly came to the decision that he’d just ignore the text. He’d rather make a mark in a more distinctive, exciting fashion, something he was sure he and Calypso could do with their hands tied behind their backs.

“Think I’m going to have to pass on that.” Julian murmured to himself as he slid his phone back into his pocket and smiled innocently at Ava’s assumption that she was the only one capable of persuasion. Every time Julian opened his mouth he had the opportunity to change someone’s mind, their actions or feelings but he didn't exactly relish the thought of using it to make people kiss him and pay him for it at the same time. He did have some principles to many people’s surprise.

Julian took his sister upon her invitation to come back to her place and spend the afternoon watching mindless television. They’d lay around like Jones town victims and have beers until it was time to meet with Alyssa and perhaps Ava. Waggling his fingers in farewell to the pretty brunette before him he smirked. “We’ll see you later then. Don’t keep us waiting, we’re extremely impatient.”

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Hours later he followed his sister to the pub and immediately headed for the bathroom; he’d already had a few beers and knew that once he broke the seal he’d never be able to go back. Julian took his time while in the restroom, whipping his hair out of his face and smiling grimly at his own reflection as he washed his hands and dried them. Straightening the plain, slightly too small, black t-shirt he had on he left the restroom and spied Calypso now joined by Alyssa and Ava both. Coming up behind the three girls he quickly and quietly joined them and he signaled for a beer.

“Now don’t you worry your pretty little heads, I’m present and accounted for. Guy can’t visit the men’s room without getting his picture put on the back of a milk carton?” He replied in greeting a broad grin crossing his handsome face as he grabbed his beer and took a swallow. Resting his arm on the back of his bar stool he glanced around the pub and took in the scene. Julian figured that most of the bar’s usual patrons were out among the crowded festival, buying their beer from vendors who charged way too much.

Turning back to Alyssa he looked her up and down appreciatively before leaning forward and approving of her makeshift plan. “I personally vote for all of the above.” He said with another smile, this time a bit more intimate for Alyssa’s benefit although he wasn’t as keen on inviting Tut or Mack. He liked Mack just fine, even found himself slightly attracted to him but Tut was another story. They didn’t exactly get along and the last thing Julian wanted or needed was competition.



Ronan stopped outside of the festival and took a deep breath. He only had a about an hour before he needed to report to the kissing booth so he’d have to entertain himself somehow, as he had that thought his stomach rumbled, deciding to let him know that the he skipped lunch. Recalling that he’d worked straight through in a hurry to leave he figured his first stop would be to one of the many food stalls. As he entered the fest, received his lantern and made his way to the nearest vendor he stopped abruptly. Of course he couldn’t eat festival food now, he was going to have to get up close and personal with people in less than an hour and the last thing they probably paid for was an onion kiss or something.

Sighing he instead made his way to one of the beer vendors and grabbed himself a pint before taking a moment to take a look around the festival. They’d really done it, it looked spectacular, the last festival had been when he was twelve and he thought it spectacular then too. With his mood brightened he decided that exploration was his best bet. Trekking along the midway he watched as people won and lost at carnival games, little kids with cotton candy as big as their heads and couples partaking of the many rides afforded to them.

Pushing his glasses back onto the bridge of his nose he took a large sip of his beer and looked around for any familiar or friendly face. Most notably, his brother, his mother and Viona. Not seeing any of them he shrugged to himself lightly and followed the sound of live music. It was there that he found a spot and swallowed the rest of his beer as he listened to the strains of the Irish folk music coming from stage. For a moment he felt relaxes and at peace, taking his glasses off he tilted his head to the slowly darkening sky and lost himself in the music. He had a feeling tonight would be fantastic and if it wasn’t he’d just drink until it was.