Ichabod Crane's Story

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It was fun hanging out with Alex. She danced around with him and even smiled and laughed. It;d been so long since he'd seen her loosen up like this which was a lot of fun. He missed this Alex. This was the Alex he loved when they were young so it was nice to see her back after everything that's happen. She disappeared away for a bit to interact with Bane and Frankie which actually kind of bothered Jai a bit but he didn't say anything. Instead he searched the crowd trying to find his simulation partner with no luck. Alex soon returned with a tray full of shots and the two began going around the room handing them out to the attendees of the party though Jai made sure to skip Jr.

"THE PARTY HAS ARRIVED!!" Jai practically bounced along with the lights as soon as she entered the room. He sped over to her and handed her a shot while he took the other. Alcohol didn't affect him that much though he probably should be aware of his limit. 'Hey, Wren. Did you see Bane? He actually spoke and now all these girls are surrounding him. Why doesn't that work for me? I'm sooooo great and attractive like have you seen my abs?" He still had a bounce as he spoke and then he finally noticed him. "OH SHIT!" Jai ran and coward behind Alex for protection. "Please don't eat me."

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Nathaniel smiled at Frankie's reaction to his compliment. He wasn't someone with the best social skills so it was nice seeing that he didn't entirely mess up around someone he actually didn't despise. That moment faded quickly unfortunately as Nathaniel began receiving unwanted attentions from other women that were crowding him at the bar. This caused Nathaniel to shift uneasily in his stool when Liz arrived first to make a comment on his accent. "You should talk more often. Spanish accents are nice." Nathaniel didn't really acknowledge her but it was hard not to feel embarrassed.

Another girl came over to the bar and commented on Natahniel's appearance. "Bane, you look nice." Nathaniel didn't respond but he did shift around again and hoped he didn't break the stool. He did his best to stay focused on Frankie since she was the one he was originally attempting to have a conversation with her even though she obviously would be saying more than he could. That was when Alex came by and put an arm on his shoulder. She was the only one to address both him and Frankie. "The infamously silent brooding Bane is talking to a girl? Who are you and what have you done with my lab partner?" He furrowed his brows and saw Frankie chuckle before Alex spoke directly to her. "Make sure he doesn't drink too much. I need him for our chem lab tomorrow."

"Have you seen this guy?" Nathaniel watched her as she spoke his eyes often watching how her lips moved with each words and the way her face seemed to radiate with bubbly energy opposed to his dark and brooding aura. "He could drink every drop of alcohol in this building and still be sober enough to drive." She looked back over at him and smiled. Nathaniel held eye contact with her while the smile infected him to do the same. Alex's movement distracted him for a moment as he watched her walk away and hand out shots to those in the party. It was nice seeing her so happy for once. It was something he rarely saw after what Jr did. He wished she was like that more often.

"So did you grow up in a Spanish speaking country? Or did you just inherit the accent from your parents?" The sound of her sweet voice brought his attention right back to Frankie and fully devoted to her once again."My father is from Santa Prisca." He refered to the Spanish speaking Caribbean island the original Bane hailed from. Nathaniel then switched form English to Spanish for the sake of showing that he's bilingual instead of just having an accent. "Me enseñó comó hablar en inglés y español." He looked at the ground when he spoke this time in hopes of not blushing or stuttering over not being used to talking this much and generally feeling awkward with all this attention.

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Ichabod Crane had spent the whole day cooped up in his penthouse that was more of a mad science lab than an actually place for living. He was working on various different experimentations with fear toxins on lab rats along with comparing how venom reacted when combined with different strains of the fear toxins. He recorded each outcome until his alarm went off and Ichabod took a break to inject himself with his daily dose of fear venom. He was perfectly aware there'd be consequences for skipping class but it wasn't like Ichabod actually gave a damn. He had high marks in all his classes and he was more concerned with his experiments than whatever it was they had planned for the day.

J.A.R.V.I.S had been relentless in annoying Ichabod all day during his experiments and even raised his volume after he put headphones on to tune him out. "Mr. Crane, Mr. Wayne wanted me to inform you that you missed an important lesson today and further actions will result in being sent back to Arkham Asylum." Ichabod took off his headpones. "You also will not be allowed to attend the dance coming up." Ichabod rolled his eyes. "Like I fucking care. You can tell 'Mr. Wayne' to suck my dick." He wondered if it were possible for a computer to roll their eyes because he had a feeling that's what J.A.R.V.I.S just did. "Also Ms. Wilson is having a party in her quarters." Ichabod immediately got up nearly dropping a test tube. "You finally said something I like."

Ichabod quickly changed and left his penthouse for Wren's. He was in the mood to get drunk so the opportunity was perfect. he took the required shot of tequila to get in and was immediately greeted but a diversity of heroes and villains. Jr was with his boy toy Enzo attempting to be a decent partner and failing. Bane was somehow the one surrounded by beautiful women despite being a silent brute. Jai was dancing with the unattainable Alex Todd. And Wren Wilson was making her presence known. This was going to be an exciting night.

Jack laughed as Julia kept up with him in the banter department. That was always fun to bounce of quips with another person. It's also surprising, he didn't believe Julia to be this comedic, guess he was wrong. "Yeah, well they were great babysitters, though Uncle Rocket would never admit it." Jack chuckled. He then looked over to Julia with an amused yet curious look upon his face. "Huh? Jake Feather? I think that's the first time someone joked about my name like that. Hey wait a minute? Since when am I you're PA?" He then chuckled, "Do I at least get payed?" He chuckled some more.

It was then he entered the elevator with Julia over he disagreement of being his personal announcer. Well, didn't hurt to ask. Still the idea of one being magically whipped up sounding interesting. He wasn't quite sure how that would work...despite seeing some amazing technology that's like magic, Magic itself always seemed to maintain it's quality of being mysterious. He doesn't understand it but he isn't a wizard anyway. It was then she decided to get around to answering his question. "Yes, please." He said with a smile. To his delight she did speak French to him and thanks to a certain implant in his neck, he understood her.

"Alright, okay, um, the first thing you said was...I should buy you some dinner at least." Jack spoke as he mulled over the words she spoke for some added effect. "Then the next thing was that if I could understand you, that you'll buy me dinner." He then grinned. "So, what are we having?" He spoke, being cheeky. It was then that Julia responded to the 2 tequila shots being poured right before them. "Oh cool! My kind of admittance fee." He said with a grin as he downed his shot. He then handed Julia hers, "Well, down the hatch, right?" He said with a chuckle, waiting for her to take her shot from him.

It was then that a few people showed up and entered the party before them. First Kari, then Wren and...Him!? "What the hell?" He thought to himself. It was then that another, surprising guest walked right past them, the scary guy. "Again, what the hell?" He was left scratching his head as people seemed to past them by without much notice. "What the hell, what are we? Chopped liver? I mean, I'm like you said, I'm Jonathan Tomas Quill! And you're, Julia Constantine! I mean we're the life of the party, man!" He spoke aloud. "Perhaps we both need magical PAs or some sort of social liaison, sheesh." He said to himself. He then entered the party. "Uh, correction Wren! NOW IT'S A PARTY!!" He shouted over to her as he swaggered on in.

He then got a good look at all the guests and was, confused, by seeing people he didn't think would show. He then whispered over to Julia, "Hey, when they say there is going to be a crazy party, I don't think that was suppose to be taken literally." He said motioning over to Junior, Christian, Enzo and Crane.

"Okay. Say, a tsunami comes and lightning and tornadoes. One at a time. And some freak force makes it target me. What would you do?" Caleb's brows furrowed gently as he thought out some of his options. It was hard to visualize a bizarre series of natural disasters coming after one person. He couldn't imagine it beyond unpleasant and destructive. "I guess I'd have to remove the subject it's targeting first and draw the danger away from civilians and casualties." At least that seemed like the right first step. "From there, we'd have to figure out the source, meanwhile, we try keep each other on our feet and alive. Then our safest bet would be for me to try find mutants or people or gods that can control or manipulate the elements." What a handful of processes it sounded like. He frowned in conclusion. "Was I set up for failure there?" Initially that was what he was after. To make Lilith see she couldn't have a guard dog in anyone, but this competitive need to win side had come out trying to find a solution where he could prevail. "Don’t make me fly your pretty butt out of here." With the late host finally deciding to show to her own party, the music blared out and the lights dimmed. Caleb frowned a little and leaned in towards Lilith to speak near her ear. "And no one would even know."

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Kain snapped his fingers continuously in search for some party snacks; peanuts, chips, m&ms, skittles, bread, something to keep his hands busy and pluck at food. He hated to divert the uncomfortable attention Nathaniel was getting, amusing as it was but as he searched the bar he squeezed Liz's shoulder, then passed by casually. It was habit of him to just remind her he was still there. Not only that but how he had saved her life in their sim.

Mathias, all the while was taking back some jagerbombs like he had the intention to go for jagerbomb sculling champ. "Doing any favors for you yet?" Since the bar seemed in endless supply, Kain didn't see Mathias getting cut off at any point. So he'd save him one drink and that could be his good deed done for the day, given he wasn't particularly happy nor satisfied about saving Elizabeth. He snatched the next one from Mathias and held up his finger in defense so the Mr.SongBird didn't act aggressively as he downed it in front of him. "There. Now you're one drink short of liver and kidney problems and making bad decisions. On my watch anyway. Which ends in about..." he silently counted the seconds remaining until the minute shifted then saluted his company with a smirk. "Thanks for the drink."

Looking pass all the bodies in the house and just seeing a room, he was able to find the finger food. Kain stole a bowl away for himself and tucked himself into a dark corner of Wren's penthouse, eyeing the crowds that had decided to make an appearance. Usually, this was Kumiko's kind of job but even she had found company in Astrid. Kain second looked Enzo's solo game of pool in which Kain noticed the good break he had done. That made it all the more tempting to join and show what a real marksman could do but he'd be swarmed in competitors soon enough. Not to mention Kain's lack of enthusiasm towards some riddle entry to play against him.

Then the real party entered. And no it didn't come in the form of the self-proclaimed pretty hyper red-headed girl. It was Ichabod and Christian. The fence sitting psychos just ready to snap."I knew it was going to be a good night."

Christian tensed up as Wren hooked her arm into his. He's not used to people touching him...at least, not anymore. It bothered him that she was so close to him, despite the possible danger. She was either very brave or very foolish, perhaps both. The ability to regenerate from even the most grievous of harm, could make anyone foolhardy to the threat of injury or death. Still, he doesn't believe in pushing your luck and he wished Wren would be a little more cautious.

As he was dragged into the elevator he only shrugged at Wren's compliment over his clothing. As the ride began, Christian listened to Wren ask about what goes on in his apartment, only to segue into what she does in her own apartment. He found the question and conversation itself odd, but he figured that's just how Wren is. He then shrugged. "I don't know...I usually...," Christian found himself a bit stuck, what does he do? "...Uh, I sit around...um, sometimes I read too. I've read a lot actually." He answered feeling awkward as he spoke. He had difficulty looking at her during the conversation, only occasionally giving her a glance.

It was then the elevator ride had stopped as they approached Wren's apartment. Seeing some guests preparing to enter, it was then she did, in her own way, to reassure him. Still he was nervous, and he was beginning to feel that this was a bad idea. As she dragged him along she took two shots of alcohol and lead him in where he saw numerous students partying about. "Great...I didn't expect to see so many people show up...why did I let her talk me into this?" He nervously thought. Then with Wren's display of showmanship the party literally lit up. Soon the deafening music played as the celebratory lights performed their show. He only took deep breaths trying to keep up his composure. It was then Jai came up and without so much as looking at him, talk to Wren. Then, in a delayed sort of fashioned, finally noticed him and high tailed it out of there. As Christian suspected, they already flee from him as if he had the plague.

Christian only sighed in a sad and disappointed manner. "Of course, why would I think anyone would ever react differently? I'm such a fool for coming here." He thought to himself. He then spoke to Wren, "You know what? Maybe I should just leave? I-I don't want to ruin the party for everyone here." It was then his vision went blurry as a voice spoke within his head. "Look at that, he's afraid, just like you said they would be. Speaking of fear here comes the supposed master." It was then his attention was turned towards Ichabod Crane, his vision normalized as Cletus came into view. "Look at all the other sons of psychos here at this party." Cletus motioned to Junior and Enzo. "While I do believe their ways of murder is a little too gimmicky for my liking...it still doesn't hurt to get a few pointers from our fellow colleagues." He chuckled sinisterly. "Why should I? What's your game?" He thought to himself. "Game? No, games. It's just as your father I feel that your choice in...who you decide to spend you're time with is very, very poor." Cletus spoke motioning over to Wren. "You're not my father...you never were."Christian retorted.

"Don't delude yourself, of course I am...you are my flesh and blood. And it's about time you realized that, so stop fooling around and do what you were born to do...kill." He then laughed manically. "No! No I won't! I've taken my medicine today, you can't force me to do anything!" "Perhaps, but then again I don't need to...you have the urge to kill all by yourself. I know you feel it, even now. I mean take that idiot for instance. He bothered you didn't he? After all, he just insulted you in front of your friend, bringing unwanted attention to you and calling you a cannibal. He represents what you hate in others...don't you see? People are worthless and petty, deserving to be killed. Why even protect them?" Cletus cooed. Christian shook as he tried to ignore the voice in his head. Yet, he wasn't wrong...Jai did insult him, why can't people refrain from judging him? It's not like he ever did anything wrong to him...to any of them! Christian looked around as he saw them staring and then everyone began to turn their backs to him.

"Look, they don't consider you one of them...see how they alienate themselves from you? Don't be their bitch! Kill them, kill them all and show the world that no one ever, EVER, messes with a KASADY!!" Cleuts shouted. "NO! You're trying to trick me, making me see what YOU want me to see!" Christian shook his head as reality returned to normal. "Dammit! I can't think like this...am I trying to loose it?!" Christian scolded himself. Thanks to the medicine Christian was able to suppress this little episode and despite the distracted look on his face, he managed to not make a scene. Still he was spooked, and worried that staying here was becoming too risky.

As Caleb mentioned finding and dealing with a source, she could only wish and agree in silence. However, a slither of her had enough respect for Alfred and Phil to not totally go savage on them. "Was I set up for failure there?" Lilith wanted to reference back to how it wasn't a trick question, and how the school's speedstar had managed well enough to keep her and a civilian alive against natural disasters, and in relative good shape compared to how things could have gone. But she could see his brainworks rolling and ticking, really trying to imagine the scene and think it through. And she wouldn't kill him by comparison. Nobody liked that. Besides, before Jai's name could even slip from her lips he came in bouncing around Alex on his back and making a fuss and scene wherever he flashed around to. So there was always an argument to be made in, the child like speediest guy actually saving her. His timing had shortened her response to a simple, "No." When he coward behind Alex, that was plenty of confirmation. But she followed his fright to the source. Or more like sources. "So many devils to tempt." She murmured to herself and turned back to Caleb. But of course tempting angels took real skill.


"Don’t make me fly your pretty butt out of here." He said. Lilith gasped in surprise."Oh my god, no one's ever complimented my butt before!" She almost shrieked in excitement. So many girls had the curve there working for them, and it was a trait on Lilith she was rarely praised on but Caleb had said pretty butt. Superman of all people! It was truly an honor. "I'm not even wearing an Ivy costume and you said that!" She reeled in her excitement in due time, like when he had to lean down towards her to speak to her again. "And no one would even know." Now, she didn't want to give him a villain course but in order for things to be really threatening, even in the joking sense he had to be in her ear. She waved him in again so she could reply, even with her heels still standing significantly shorter than him. "Wren would. If you ruin her penthouse outside of party standards, even your charming fat grin won't win her over." Lilith drew back and nodded as if to say 'true story.' "Now..I'm gonna get a few drinks and then we can dance."

She weaved her way through the bodies at the party to the bar. Lilith even second looked Christian and thought of offering him a drink. But she thought given his state it might be a stupid question and unwise.

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As she expected Nathan didn't respond to all the compliments, everyone knew he didn't talk much. She sat drinking her beer quietly and peacefully until he came over. Kain just couldn't let her be, no matter where they were he just had to bug her even if it was just for a second. He didn't say anything to her at all but he gave her shoulder a squeeze which was enough to get under her skin. He knew she hated him and that was all he really needed to do. She said nothing as she glared at the back of his head as he spoke with Mathias and stole one of his shots.

"THE PARTY HAS ARRIVED!!" As if it was planned, and lets get real it probably was, the lights went down and colored lights went on and the music began blasting. Liz smiled, Wren always made an entrance. She noticed Christian had joined the party, probably because Wren asked him to. He wasn't a bad guy but Liz tends to stay away from him.

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Kari didn't pay much attention to anyone else at the bar after she'd gave Nathan the complement. She just sat sipping on her beer. She saw the Kain had made his way over just to bother Liz, which she thought was funny. Then she heard Alex, she'd come over to talk to Frankie and Nathan. She couldn't help but tense up, though Alex would most likely ignore her. She wasn't one to cause trouble on her own. The thing was Kari hated that Alex didn't like her. Before she could move from the bar Wren busted through the door, "THE PARTY HAS ARRIVED!!" she yelled and the music began playing on it's highest volume and the lights changed.

Kari stood from the bar and made her way over to Wren. About half way there she noticed Christian. "It's about time you showed up. I thought this was going to end up a dull party. She said to Wren then turned to christian, he looked kind of out of it "You alright Chris?" her voice full of concern, she knew people didn't like him but it wasn't his fault his dad was a maniac.

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Kumiko gave her answer, even sounding report like. "Nothing exciting. Bane doing his much hated Joker Jr duties. The night has barley started, I'm sure it will get much more exciting than that." Astrid nodded, taking a look around. With alcohol taking its effects on any one of these individuals it could become more exciting but if they times that by 5 at least...they were due for a very exciting night for lack of a better term. "Maybe things will get interesting sooner rather than later." Astrid was unsure if that was a calculation or hope, but if gambling were in her nature she'd put money on it. In fact, why not? Only more people seemed to file into the party making Wren's much desired full house dream come true. "I think things will take a turn in about..10 minutes? And that's being generous." She smiled to Kumiko. "How'd your simulation go anyway?" Astrid asked on another note.

"Hey Astrid. Kimmy K." Matt nodded to them and smiled. Astrid naturally smiled right back to Matt before letting her face slowly fall. She pointed to his cup. "Are you sure you should be drinking that right after your entry shot? You know underage drinking is still frowned upon in here." Astrid told him, her brows furrowed in concern for Matty. She watched his own face slowly fall and glance into his cup self-consciously. "Oh. Matty. No. I'm kidding. Sometimes people kid." Matt laughed too sharply, causing her head to jerk back and do an uncertain grin in response as he sipped at his drink. "Good one." His laughter trailed off and he walked away not so subtly. Though Kumiko mightn't have registered it as an awkward occurrence, Astrid exchanged a glance with her. "I think I might just see what's going on there or say I'm sorry or...something." She excused herself and wondered off after Matt.

She grabbed his arm gently and stepped in front of him. "Hey. I know my humor needs a lot of work but I was joking. I'd never judge what you do or try to make you feel that way. Is something the matter? Do you want to talk?"

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"Are you fucking serious, Jai? He's not a cannibal and he hasn't done anything to you." Jai stepped back as Alex's voice grew and she began chewing him out. "If you're gonna act like such an ass by assuming someone's a certain way based on who their father is go take your cowardly little ass away from this guy who's just here to have a good time like the rest of us." He stood there completely speechless and off guard as she pointed at the bar and her arm caused him to flinch in response like she was on the verge of hitting him. "Better yet, how about you make like a bitch and get this guy a beer since he's more of a man than you." His face fell as he was about ready to leave but apparently the girls weren't done with him just yet.

Alex yelling at him wasn't enough since Wren decided to chuck an empty bottle of vodka at him causing Jai to duck down to avoid it and practically cower at whatever she had left to throw at him. "I'm sorry, but were you dropped on your head as an infant? Or were you just born stupid?!" He looked up at her like a puppy that had just been kicked as she continued to take more jabs at him. "Maybe you deserve to be 'eaten' because you're acting like a fucking pussy! And a good pussy deserves to be eaten!... Grow up." Jai seemed to be getting smaller and smaller with each word until Wren was finally done.

Jai slowly rose up from the ground with his head hanging low and he went off to find his own little corner to be alone. He didn't run. He didn't speed all around the room like usual. He walked slowly and sat himself down alone staring at his hands and getting lost in his own thoughts as he stayed perfectly quiet. What was so wrong with being scared? What was wrong with seeing what that guy has done? Why didn't they understand?d

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Her soft giggle brought Nathaniel's attention back up form the floor to her. "I would tell you to speak in Spanish all the time because it sounds good when you speak it. But then I fear I wouldn't be much for conversation at that point." He had a faint smile appear on his face though he didn't really have a response. Nathaniel probably did all the talking he needed to do for a year. He finally noticed the strawberry that had been held out for him and watched her take a bite just realizing he didn't acknowledge her offer to him. His cheeks turned red for a moment as he mumbled an apology, "Sorry." He looked back down at his hands and back up at her trying to come up with something to say.

Thankfully Frankie was much better suited for conversation than Nathaniel. "I can speak Latin... Well no one speaks Latin, it's a dead language. But I know it fairly well with having a degree in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. Everything in Science seems to have a Latin based name." His eyes lit up right when she mentioned her degrees. She was actually smart and worth Nathaniel's time. Praise science. Nathaniel seemed to hang onto everything about her even more now that she was more than just a sweet girl with a pretty face. She's pretty, sweet, and smart. She's perfect. Too bad Nathaniel was anything but perfect.

Another strawberry as held out in front of him. "They're really good and fresh... Unless you're allergic, then I'm sorry." He looked at the strawberry and back at her just as she pushed one of her flawless locks back behind her ear. Nathaniel just couldn't bear the thought of saying no to her and took the strawberry despite the fact that he was not a fan of them. He bit into it and played it off like he enjoyed the way the tiny little seeds jammed into his teeth before adding a mumbled, "Thanks. When he was done. Commotion began when he heard Alex raised her voice towards Jai West and Wren follow by throwing a glass bottle at him over his remark towards Christian. Nathaniel actually felt bad for the guy. They shouldn't expect someone to just act like he didn't commit any horrible crimes. Sure Jai shouldn't have made a dumb remark but that doesn't deserve what he got.

Nathaniel turned backaround wanting to ask Frankie about her field right when Jack Quill decided to interrupt them. "Hey guys! How's the drinks around here?" Nathaniel rolled his eyes hoping to ignore the guy but then he decided to address Nathaniel directly. "Doing pretty good for yourself buddy...pullin' all the ladies. Gonna need to step up my game a little since I don't got the big guns like you do!" He looked like he was about to pat his back but hesitated. Nathaniel responded by glaring at him intensely looking like he was about ready to kill the guy if he continued pestering him.

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Talk about one eventful party. The hyperactive speedster managed to piss off two of the arguably hottest and possibly most popular girls in the school. Alex chewed his head off while Wren actually got physical and threw a bottle at him. Ichabod loved it. He cowered on the ground and walked away like some pathetic wannabe hero because he was too afraid. He'd be an easy target and this just confirmed it for him. Though that would have to wait since Ichabod would need to make a special formula for him. maybe something that involved Christian eating him just for shits and giggles.

Ichabod clapped his hands together loudly as he stood up and strolled over to where the party really was. He placed his long thin hands on the shoulders of Christian and Wren as he stared down at Alex with a rather manical look on his face enough to make the fearless crawl in their skin. "How about we lighten the mood of this party up a bit?" He looked at them each just to make sure they were actually listening. "Let's play a nice game of spin the bottle."

“What does a guy normally do when he intentionally sits alone without a magazine or the internet?” Kain definitely meant it as a rhetorical question but had to eliminate the snide comments of another lonesome activity. “People watching. You sit back, relax and observe the events to unfold. Kinda tame but it can pay off.” Mathias seemed to follow the social appearances of Ichabod and Christian. Kain nodded slowly with a smirk. “Interest…" He was cut off by the commotion and girls defending some remarks towards Christian, that otherwise could have gone under the radar. “As I was saying…interesting huh?” Kain picked up and smiled. “And that's just the beginning. It's not even peak freak hour yet." And that was true. Come midnight, or any time when the alcohol takes its effects on those with the built up systems, things would get even more juicy and eventful. He then eyed Mathias up and down coming to pay attention to the absence of a drink in his hand. "You didn't even bring a peace offering."

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He didn't get much time to justify his innocence as Astrid admitted she was joking. And Matt had made it all the more weird by forcing laughter. He could see that and that was his cue to go.

"No it's just...Well it's just I've been standing here for a solid 3 minutes and Wren hasn't noticed me yet." He told Astrid lowly as she asked what the matter was. Matt hung his head down in defeat, praying for the strength he knew he'd need for this night. Slowly, he was able to glance back up to Astrid and twitch up half a smile. It was a sad excuse and something he ought to be a shamed of. Matt scanned her facial features for a moment before breaking character. "Now I'm kidding." He beamed. "It was just my escape from the awkward hole I had dug myself in. Of course it helps to move on to someone else straight away but everyone else has already kinda..." Matt entwined his hands as what he believed to be a convincing gesture of everyone else already bonding and grouping together. "See, I'm also bad at jokes." As if to ease the tension his hand naturally hit her lightly. Instantly his mouth fell agape and his hands hovered by her, unsure whether to offer a caring touch or that was the last thing she wanted. "I am so sorry."

It was then he also caught wind of a spin the bottle game, but he didn't want to turn or make eye contact with the suggester. For the person sake and the game itself. He raised his brows then grinned again to Astrid. "And where does Miss America stand on such a game? Mm. Vodka breath."

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Rather than take on board the whole locking her out of the party aspect, Lilith paid more attention to the butt aspect. Caleb looked around, embarrassed by her excitement towards her interpreted compliment, though he meant nothing by it. And when he thought things couldn't get worse, Caleb leaned back towards her as she motioned for so. "Wren would. If you ruin her penthouse outside of party standards, even your charming fat grin won't win her over." Now she was countering his points? This was just hitting poor irony all over. "Now..I'm gonna get a few drinks and then we can dance." Like she had held his attention down the halls, she held it as she weaved her way through people at the party. Then something in him clicked. 'Then we can dance'. He really wasn't much of a dancer. And sure it was flattering but he wasn't entirely comfortable with it.

Caleb tried to bury himself within the crowd while he was out of range from her more passive abilities. But there wasn't really a way to blend in standing at the height he did. So he found himself moving toward the billiard table Enzo was using. They weren't on great terms but he'd be a good buffer. Meanwhile though...Caleb might as well tried for some conversation. "You missed a riddle today." He said. "Or trick question." Caleb personally wasn't sure what it qualified as.

Kumiko went back to watching the party, still expecting Astrid to answer. She'd learned that just because you answer the initial question it doesn't always mean the conversation was over. Not much was going on, just a bunch of mingling which she instinctively scrunched her nose. Small talk was never her strong suit, it often turned into her not talking or talking in a way not one understood, she had gotten better since Astrid hadn't been scared off yet. "I think things will take a turn in about..10 minutes? And that's being generous." Kumiko smirked and nodded in agreement, having enemies in the same room all drinking alcohol was never a good mix. "How'd your simulation go anyway?" Kumiko realized she hadn't even seen her simulation partner arrive yet. Before she could answer her question Matt walked over "Hey Astrid. Kimmy K." Kimmy K? She blinked at him in confusion, not one had ever called her that since it was nowhere near her name. She gave him a small wave but other than that said nothing.

Listening to their small conversation and actions confused her. Astrid had made a joke, according to her, yet it sounded serious which caused Matt to seem hurt or sad about it and leave. In response to that Astrid stood "I think I might just see what's going on there or say I'm sorry or...something." and left Kumiko alone once again. So she went back to what she did best. "THE PARTY HAS ARRIVED!!" Wren burst through her door which caused the 'normal' lights to turn off and 'party' lights to turn on. Also the music became louder, so loud Kumiko nearly wanted to leave the party but was slightly afraid since she'd have to walk past Wren.

It hadn't even been ten minutes and things were starting to get more interesting with Jai getting screamed at by Wren and Alex because of the comment he made about Christian. Kumiko always found Christian interesting, he wanted to be good but whatever was in his head wouldn't allow it. it was probably the only thing that helped her understand sadness or was it empathy?

Not only did Wren manage to get Christian to join the party Ichabod had joined as well and suggested a game of spin the bottle. Kumiko had no idea what that was but she didn't want to participate.

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"People are just being assholes." Kari nodded in agreement and turned to see where Jai had gone. She saw him sitting alone staring at his hands it kind of made her feel a little sorry for him. "Don't worry about them. They just don't understand. I mean I'm not going through that kind of thing myself but I can sort of understand what your going through. She said giving him a small pat on the shoulder

"Don't be so harsh on them...they're not wrong for reacting the way they did. It's not like I make it easy for them to change their opinions of me." Kari looked at him curiously, "I just don't get it. Why are any of you guys nice to me? Why even defend me like that? I'm sure you guys have heard about the...killings." She didn't understand why he was defending them. They had to have hurt his feelings. "Chris, just because you've done some bad things doesn't mean you're a bad person. It isn't like you are following into your father's footsteps willingly, at least you try to be good unlike others.

Apparently Mathias had a different opinion towards most of Kain’s perspectives. His idea of fun, which he had to laugh about at the mention of shadiest clubs. His method of observing people and the way the trade should have gone if they were going to be in each other’s company that naturally brought amusement upon his features. Mathias could enjoy dreaming. Meanwhile, Kain continued to pluck at the peanuts communicating his 'yeah right' in silence.

Soon enough the event, amusement and fun had come to them. Admittedly not in a very predictable form as Wren whistled for the party's attention. "Mr. Crane here has had a lovely idea... SPIN THE BOTTLE!" Kain glanced to Mathias and smirked. "Ichabod wants to play spin the bottle?" He questioned. "What could go wrong?" Kain bumped Mathias with his shoulder. Then sighed out as he had to leave his nice under the radar post and peanuts to form a circle. "You playing?" Kain asked back to Mathias as he sat on the floor.

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He almost had to do a double take as Enzo shoved a cue in his hand and setup the table again then motioned for Caleb to have a shot. "Did old and bossy give the braun a simulation to see if they had brains?" Only villains had the natural ability to belittle people, but he let Enzo have his parade. They couldn't all have max IQ and to be fair on himself it wasn't everyday Caleb had to solve a riddle. Unlike the guy before him. "And what pray tell did I miss?"
Caleb moved around the table to take his shot. "Well basically J.A.R.V.I.S told us the rules. That we had to answer it together and our answer would only count by first stating 'the answer is.' " He took in a deep breath waiting for the snark to flow out of Enzo like a waterfall. "And the questions we got was 'why?' " Caleb lined up the shot and had apparently exerted his force in the wrong way as the cue snapped on him. He was unsure if it was because he was annoyed in the judgement he'd face from Nigma or because he heard a suggestion of spin the bottle that was being spread party wide by Wren. Caleb looked to Nigma like a brother might to assure his sibling wouldn't dob but that was exactly what the likes of his company would do if it meant trouble. "I'll pay for another, " Caleb added.

Not wanting the ball in one court, after a moment or two and shuffling his way slowly to the game, he added, "And what did the handling of your simulation look like?" Whatever it was, Caleb doubted it was as flawless as he acted.

She wasn't sure what words of wisdom she could give to support such a delicate soul such as Matt's but she felt for him. Astrid knew the simplest nod of acknowledgement from his crush would lighten him in an instant. Nonetheless she tried to search for some words. “Now I’m kidding.” He said before she could foolishly begin to console him. “Oh, that is not nice.” Because that had truly tugged at her heart strings a little but it didn't stop her smiling with him. “See, I’m also bad at jokes.” Matt said and swung a careless hand into her. Immediately his mouth fell agape and he started apologizing. “I am so sorry.” It hadn't hurt in the slightest and came off as playful so he had nothing to be sorry for, but she found his concern in the gesture very gentlemanly. “I'm sure I'll survive,” she said laughing.

Like Matt, she overheard the mentioning of spin the bottle game. They could have been fortunate for it to be a game with just a few contenders happy to kiss each other but then Wren had whistled out loud for to gain everybody's attention. “Mr. Crane here has had a lovely idea... SPIN THE BOTTLE!” Matt had turned back to Astrid in full attention. “And where does Miss America stand on such a game? Mm. Vodka breath.” Astrid laughed again then prepared her analysis. “First off, thank you for getting the idea of vodka breath in my mind. Secondly, where I stand on this game? I think it's chaotic. I mean fun and good to release your inner ID and child. And I don't have much of a problem with it. But there are certain people who you'd rather not kiss you know? For various eligible reasons.” Astrid thought further on her justification. “Like Ivy for the obvious reason. I don't want to end up in the infirmary because a bottle landed on her and my immunity doesn't fight off her poison or venom quick enough.” And that was the truth. She didn’t care about her sexuality or not being able to heal, because she would recover. It was just the process of healing, lounging around in a bed, expecting to take whatever doctors and nurses recommend for you. Then there were lesser instances where she could encounter a dedicated kisser who would really put their tongue into it.

“It might actually be so bad, it turns out good.” She laughed, though partly nervous.

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"Well some have called me a flirt before." He said jokingly. It was then he looked down at his jeans and then grinned, "Oh, good, so they do work!" He said with pep. It was after the mess with him and Wren over his words that he looked over to her and nodded. "I guess you're right." He said as he rubbed his head. "I wouldn't know what that would be like, considering I've never done anything I've regretted." He continued. "I guess I should be lucky in that regard." His mood changed when they reached the bar. Feeling happier he laughed at Frankie's literal answer.

"Well, that's good! At least it's a real party!" He chuckled. It was then he noticed the intensity in Bane's stare as he grew nervous. "Heh, heh, sorry, shouldn't have ruined your groove...heh, heh." He nervously chuckled as he moonwalked out of Bane's reach. It was then he twist and turned to Frankie and Julia with a playfully hurt expression. "Agh! You wound me ladies!" He dramatically spoke. He then laughed it off. "I think they're called something else out there." He chuckled.

It was then his attention was pulled when heard that a game of spin the bottle is about to go down. "Classic." He said with approval. "Well if you guys need me, you know where to find me." He said with a grin as he headed over there in no time flat. He then sat down in the circle as he rubbed his hands together. "So who goes next?"

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Christian listened to the girls around him trying to convince him otherwise. No, he wasn't a killer, the Symbiote is the one to blame, or his father is to blame. He started to grow a bit annoyed at their attempts. He realized they were trying to be nice to him...and he could appreciate that. He just didn't like all of this attention, it felt like the more they interact with him the more dangerous it could be. He's been keeping good enough control so far and he doesn't want to push his luck anymore than he has to.

He will just sit and watch, maybe have a drink or two, it doesn't matter. He's here now and leaving right away would just seem rude. He may be worried but he still has that nagging feeling in the back of his head to not be rude. Yet the words that both Kari and Wren spoke, he just felt he should place it perspective for them. "You guys say that but let me ask you something? If there was someone you loved, someone you cared about, and that someone was taken from you, would you be so quick to forgive the one who did it? I've, I'VE, killed people, people that other people knew and cared about. People that had lives! Friends, Family, Lovers, they were all killed and the ones who live on...now have to live out the rest of their lives without them! Those people whose lives I ruined...they don't forgive me...they despise me...they think I should be put to death for the murders of their loved ones. And how could you blame them? After the amount of pain and suffering that I've caused them?" He said as he looked at them both with a stern face.

"I'm no different from any other psychopath who hears voices in his head...I just don't blame the voices like you guys do." He finished. He then felt a twinge of discomfort as Ichabod placed his hand on his shoulder. "Please could you not? I don't like to be touched." He said rather coldly. As he shrugged to release himself from his touch, he heard his proposition and one by one people agreed to it. Christian had no desire whatsoever to join. He didn't even want to be near people, last thing he needs to do is touch, let alone kiss another person. He wouldn't want to suddenly and quite literally bite someone's face off. He said he wasn't a cannibal, but the Symbiote might do it just for the hell of it.

He groaned, "I'm sorry...I didn't mean to seem so rude to you or any of you. I know you're just trying to help. I think...I'm just gonna go over to the bar...see if there's anything I like." Christian sadly spoke as he excused himself from the growing group of people. He doesn't do well with crowds. Christian reached the bar as he perused it's selection.

Wren was began to give Chris a serious talking to so she slipped away while they chatted. The suggestion of spin the bottle caught her attention. "Hell yea." She said with a smile, it was a great game. It caused a lot of drama and who didn't like drama? She helped make room for the circle before joining the circle herself. She was sure everyone would participate, including Matt and Alex but what were the odds of her spin landing on them, 2/21 actually. Good odds not to land on them, that would be gross.

Seeing that the most insane person in this place suggested this game made her nervous however. Why would he suggest it, obviously he wanted drama but from what she'd heard he was more about a little childish drama. She took a quick deep breath Maybe he just wants this party to get interesting like the rest of us. She though calmly, knowing it may be only half true.

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Watching from afar was what she'd always done, especially in things like this. Her mother sent her here to teach her human emotion, perhaps this was one way to learn. No, someone like her didn't play games like this, granted she didn't know exactly what the game was. Her curiosity had gotten he best of her and she found herself near Wren in the circle. She leaned in, maybe too close for comfort, "What exactly is this..game?" She asked in a whisper hoping Wren wouldn't make it a big deal that she didn't know.

Quickly she realized she would be uncomfortable, more and more people began to gather. Actually most of the party had gathered into this circle. Too crowded for her but she was already there and basically confirmed she was playing as soon as she sat in the circle Big mistake she thought to herself getting more uncomfortable.

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Spin the bottle? Suggested by Ichabod, was no one concerned about that? Well she was, very concerned. He was a psycho, a true psycho. However it was better than sitting around watching, even Kumiko had joined which would surprise everyone. So she joined the circle, it wasn't a bother to her who it landed on Lie. Ok so she didn't want to kiss at least half the people in the circle but what were the odds of her having to kiss her enemy Probably not something you should think Liz. positive thinking, this could actually be fun instead of drama filled...Hopefully.

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Nathaniel sat there in complete and utter annoyance as Frankie, Julia, and Jack all interacted with each other. He had no reason to say anything at this point and nor did he want to considering how the conversation slowly lowered in IQ by each word out of Jack's mouth. The talk of space crabs was also just a tad bit uncomfortable for Nathaniel and he'd prefer to just be with Frankie and talk about science. He'd be fine if Julia was around too since she seemed somewhat smart. Nathaniel honestly just wanted Jack to leave. That seemed to come when Wren made the announcement of Ichabod suggesting spin the bottle. Jack was quick to leave and enjoy the game despite the fact that Ichabod was there and Nathaniel could breathe a sigh of relief. But for only a moment.

Nathaniel looked back at Frankie and saw the look on her face and immediately knew she wanted him to join the game. Julia commented about how she had a feeling they would join the game and Nathaniel immediately flustered up and he could feel his cheeks beginning to flush. He really didn't want to play such a corny game but he also didn't want to say no to Frankie so he sighed. "Fine..." He stood up from his stool and took her hand with out asking as he lead her through the crowd of people and where to the group of people circled around for the game and sat down with Frankie next to him.

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Wren's announcement got the attention of a large number of people as they all began to crowd around. Wren offered Ichabod the bottle first since he suggested the game and Ichabod took it. He rested the bottle on the ground and took out a tube of chapstick and moistened his lips. He could see the expressions of everyone crowded around him change as they probably all assumed that little tube of chapstick was laced with some of his fear toxin. It could be but only those who weren't immune to toxins and kissed him would find out which would actually make this game a little exciting as he finally spinned the bottle.

He looked around the group thinking about whom he desired it to land on the most and Ichabod quite desired it to be Enzo. Kissing Enzo would mean pissing off Jr but of course the Prince of Clowns wouldn't do anything since he knew better than to cross Ichabod. The bottle began slowing down as it passed each possible victim and finally came to a halt before non other than Caleb Kent. Ichabod grinned and turned to the little man of steel. "Alright, Super Boy... Pucker up."He leaned towards Caleb to plant one on him excited for what his reaction would be.