[LAB 305] Kiss Day Bonanza

[Snoofington]

This is a private roleplay for [LAB 305] including:

Cruz, Anita (ex o ex Snoof)
Ethiriel (NeonMace)
Rhedefre (Atmadja)
Iorek (Ac.Wings)
Zurine (Petite Kitsune)

This roleplay took place on Skype.

Please do not post.

[Snoofington]

Snoof

September 20th was still a warm day on Isle de Gambino. The sky was slightly overcast, giving large dapples of shade to the island and offering a reprieve from the otherwise oppressive sun but the air was still clinging to a Summer humidity that necessitated the use of fans indoors. It was still perfect weather for Cruz but he worried for some of his guests who were far more delicate and sensitive to the heat. At least a cool breeze rolled in now and then from the ebbing tide.

Around noon that Saturday, he was all ready for his friends to arrive. Considering the party was taking place in such a small area, the apartment, he was only able to invite a small handful. Still, all of them had responded positively and Cruz was eager to see them. The interior was warmly lit and welcoming, the entertainment center already primed for any movies they might watch later (as well as the acceptable viewing list they could pick through), and the sofa in front of the television was pulled out to allow optimum lounge room for all of the legless visitors.

His guardian had tried to remember what all the raevans that attended the crawfish boil were listed as eating so she could keep out some form of snack for them all but it was a bit tricky. They both decided it was best to ask as soon as they arrived and Anita could run out for supplies if need be. The only snack they had at the ready lay on the dining room table near the balcony doors, a small pile of tarnished silverware.

Neon

As per usual, Henry had tried his best to make it to the party early so that he could get Ethiriel adjusted. He had brought her own snacks so that Anita wouldn't have to worry too much about obtaining silver as it generally ran pretty pricey.

Ethiriel was dressed simply, her arms bare so that the warmth wouldn't bother her too much, though she seemed a little bit shy of her skin. Her tan was coming along nicely.

Atma

Cesc was the next to arrive, his hands full with two boxes -- one larger, wrapped present-box in shiny green paper, and a smaller striped bakery box atop it. He was dressed in his usual style: a royal blue and heather grey raglan tee, three-buttons and three-fourth sleeves. The shirt sat better on his larger frame, the diagonal seams accentuating his broader shoulders. His smile, showing how pleased he was to be seeing Cruz under HAPPY circumstances, was much the same as it had always been.

"Hey, all," he greeted as he entered, his face brightening at seeing his friends.

Snoof

Eth had been greeted by Cruz and Anita both, the croc's guardian getting to the door before he could. Cruz was on dog duty; he had to make sure that Tango didn't get too excited or loud and, hopefully, didn't spook anyone that hadn't visited them before. Once the hound was settled and gotten a friendly sniff of the silver frei's hands, Ethiriel was lead to a comfortable perch at the corner of the sofa bed and proper greetings were issued with Henry before he went on his way.

The arrival of Cesc was met similarly, with bright smiles from Cruz and Anita as well as excited whining from Tango once he noticed the sigel's familiarity. Only when the door was closed was he set loose and promptly began sniffing at the box that had food inside.

"Hey, thanks for coming" Anita offered with a wave as she rounded the couch to Ethiriel, "Cesc is here, he and Cruz will sit with you in a second."

Cruz marveled at the stag while attempting to settle Tango down. With one arm he gestured to the kitchen counter. "Boxes here," he smiled, then gestured to the couch, "Thiriel there."

The silver Henry left them with served a dual purpose; both of the boys were encouraged to take a small piece to hold themselves so Eth could keep track of who was who and where they were.

Neon

"Thank you," Ethiriel offered as she was led to the couch, offering her own gift box in the process. She was sat before Cesc arrived, but as soon as she caught his scent and heard his voice, part of her relaxed. She sat with her arms on her 'lap,' a gentle smile resting on her face.

Atma

"Nice to see you -- happy birthday!" Cesc grinned at Cruz and clapped the Raevan on the shoulder as he set the boxes down. He took a piece of silver and then went toward Eth, touching her lightly on the arm. "Lovely to see you."

Neon

Ethiriel glanced upward to the silver that made its way toward her, and the touch to her arm was warm and welcomed. "Hello, Rhedefre; what a pleasure to meet with you, again." And to Cruz, she turned, "and please, I ask forgiveness -- I have forgotten my manners. I wish you a happy birthday, as well."

Atma

"You look lovely," said the stag, settling down to sit by Ethiriel. He turned his head to look for Anita.

"Oh, Anita, ah … one of those packages has something for you, too, actually."

Wings

Iorek wasn't a fan of being late. Unfortunately today he would have to deal with being labelled as fashionably late because he couldn't show up with just a present and card! The birthday boy needed some decorative birthday balloons! Who would of guessed the line at the store would be as long as a bus but as slow as a snail?

The rest of his journey to the apartment moved quickly enough. The only thing he had to worry about on the way over was popping the sparkly bright balloons with his horns, claws, or wings. He was as dangerous as a porcupine. It wasn't an easy task but when he got to the apartment door everything was accounted for!

A big smile sat on his face. He nearly scrubbed it raw the night before in hopes that his stone skin would shine prettily for today. It had been a while since he had seen Cruz so Reks was extra excited to share in birthday festivities. He even combed out his unruly mane and wore a wrinkle free button-up shirt! Lillian was sweet enough to put the iron to it this morning.

Finding the door unlocked and after knocking twice..well..once, he slowly opened it and peeked inside. “Um…Hello! I-I made it! Sorry to be late.”

PK

It was Phiel's fault that Zurine was late, she would firmly maintain. With this being her first major outing with friends (the shopping trip to the mall hadn't counted, she pointed out to him in fierce, chilly tones) since her self-imposed isolation earlier this year, and while Zurine was nervous and felt strangely caught off guard, it was a fairly familiar feeling to her by now, and she was -exceedingly- good at making herself look confident when she didn't really feel it. After all, this was for Cruz, she told herself as she wrapped her arms carefully around the precisely-wrapped birthday gift. She'd dressed herself in her party best, a soft pink ballet shrug and cream-colored shirt. Phiel had spent hours looking at internet how-to videos in order to get her hair braided just-so in a crown atop her head, though the pink silk rose hairpins certainly helped lend his efforts credibility, and Zurine was simply doing her best to pretend as if the first months of summer had never happened.

Before she approached, Zuri drew a deep breath, lifted her head at a calculated angle to downplay her own insecurity, and then moved to head inside, close behind Reks. This way, she didn't quite have to make an -entrance- and announce her own lateness, right? A -brilliant- plan.

Snoof

Anita balked slightly at Cesc's mention, only to give a confused smile a moment later. "Aw, that's sweet, you didn't have to get me anything... Thank you."

Cruz beamed at all of them, now even more eager for gifts but still more eager for the arrivals. Just as he settled back with Cesc and Ethiriel, there was another knock at the door and Tango was set off. Anita grabbed another piece of silver off the table as Iorek came floating in with balloons.

"Yorek!" the croc exclaimed, rushing over to wrap his arms around one of Iorek's biceps and all but planting his face in the gargoyle's neck. "Hi! Hi, hi--" he lifted away just in time to see another face, one looking a bit more timid than he last recalled but one Cruz was no less happy to see. "Zuri!!"

Atma

Cesc smiled at Anita even as she balked, lifting his shoulders. He kept one hand, gentle, on Ethiriel's arm as he spoke. "It's nothing -- it'll make sense when you open it, really."

His aura was warm and radiant from him as the stag sat there, happy to be among friends. For the first time in a while, it felt natural, it felt GOOD, to be out and about and with others. His smile only brightened as Iorek came through the door. Balloons! Of course Iorek would have thought of balloons.

"Reks!" he hailed his friend, not yet moving from his spot. He let out a laugh as Cruz smooshed himself onto the gargoyle, looking forward to seeing his friend's reaction to --

-- to --

-- Cesc's smile froze unnaturally on his face. Like a sudden storm, his aura of calm burst and then receded, crawling close to his skin. His shoulders tensed. He wasn't sure where to look.

Blue feathers.

His fingers tensed momentarily on Eth's arm, and then he gently let her go. But what to do with his hands now?

Neon

Silent through all the greetings and bantering, Ethiriel's smile softend into a more natural curve as everyone seemed to calm -- but with that, in came more commotion.

An unfamiliar scent wafted through with the opening of the door, followed by a cold, known scent that the tea Frei hadn't had the pleasure of 'seeing' in a long while.

Cesc's subtle clutching was immediately felt and Ethiriel's gaze lifted upward, but she did not speak as his hand was removed from her arm. Ethiriel remained silent.

PK

Somehow, it hadn't occurred to Zuri that Cesc would be there, although she rather thought she had known that he was Cruz's friend (it was easy to be Cruz's friend, after all) -- her heart quickened. Guilt and shame made a leaden knot at her center, but as she slipped into the room, she found herself suddenly glad that the birthday present she had bought Cruz was wrapped solidly and the box could withstand a white-knuckled grip.

Her own smile wilted a little at the edges, but she straightened her shoulders, puffing up like a bird to hide her own discomfort. She would -not- make this awkward for Cruz, but the sight of Cesc, all grown up and if possible, even more handsome than before, brought back a hundred feelings she'd thought had been buried in the endless waves of her depression. Her nails just barely missed biting into the wrapping paper of Cruz's present, and she -forcibly- drew her eyes away from the stag, pinning them on Cruz and putting on her very best -everything is completely fine- expression, though that could not have been farther from the truth. "Cruz! Happy birthday!" Her voice was a little weak, and her smile a little brittle, but she managed it.

Atma

Cesc offered Ethiriel a tight smile as she looked up before he realized (with some relief) that she couldn't actually see his discomfort. He lowered his voice to an intimate whisper and rumbled a quick apology: "Sorry, I was startled."

For himself, Cesc avoided Zurine's gaze, looking with intense and focused interest at Tango, at the pattern of his fur, at whatever the hell wasn't her or her shadow. His heartbeat was fast in his chest. His emotions refused to name themselves. Above it all was only his brain, asking him politely to just BE COOL, OKAY, BE COOL.

Neon

"So long as you are well," Ethiriel responded, though she remained skeptical.

Snoof

"Alright," Anita chuckled at Cesc, "I'll see when they're all getting opened. Thanks."

The sudden wave of awkwardness initially went unnoticed by both raevan and guardian as Anita went to the table for another silver trinket and Cruz was far too busy being so thoroughly elated with everyone's arrival that his rune was thrumming in time with his heart.

He detached himself from Iorek in time to catch Tango from being too overly enthusiastic about new people AND an open front door (which Anita promptly took care of).

"Everyone's here," he rumbled happily while wrapped around the wolfhound to keep him from getting too personal. "Presents go there--" he nodded to the kitchen counter that was already filling up, "--friends there--" Cruz looked to the pulled out sofa bed with one confused Ethiriel and a thoroughly astonished Cesc, "--balloons anywhere! Thank you."

"Thanks for coming," Anita offered more politely to Iorek and Zurine both while shutting the door. "Here, let me get these and I'll trade you," she offered both unique pieces of silver for Ethiriel to identify them and took the gift boxes into her arms.

Atma

Cesc's gaze was torn from Tango as Cruz went to manage the dog. He could feel panic mounting in his chest. What was he meant to do? Part of him wanted to plead at Cruz; Cruz, Cruz, how could you DO such a thing?

But then he remembered that Cruz hadn't KNOWN, and why should he have ever THOUGHT--

-- and then he thought, treacherously, that maybe it had just been HIM that was banished, that maybe Zurine -- for Cruz --

Cesc shook his head roughly. He lifted his eyes for the briefest moment to see Zurine, to see how the little bird had changed since he'd last seen her, and then he slid his eyes to Cruz and Iorek.

"Reks, you look good," he said, the pinnacle of easy nonchalance.

PK

In the time since Zurine had last seen Cesc, she had grown thinner, and if possible, paler; faint shadows showed under her dark eyes, and she was doing her best to hide a thin crease between her brows, directly to the right of the center jewel on her forehead. She still didn't quite dare to look at him, but the familiar presence almost glowed in the room, to her heightened senses. She was quite reluctant, but when Anita offered to trade her package for the silver, she went along with it. It was just as easy to clutch that, and a thin rime of frost crept down the length of the bit of silverware, tracing an elaborate pattern on it even through the cloth of her shrug's soft pink sleeve, through which she had poked her thumb already. Right. He was right. Pretend that nothing was strange, nothing was wrong, and they could... sort it out later. Still, she moved like a ghost to take up residence on the couch, very softly greeting Ethiriel with a sort of nervous murmur.

Neon

With each little piece of silver that was handed out, Ethiriel felt a strange sense of grounding that she had never experienced. She could "see" where everyone was, in a sense, allowing her to feel somewhat normal -- even if it was just from a small piece of jewelry.

"It is a pleasure, Lady Zurine," she cooed, hearing the waver in the owl's voice. Another thing she kept to herself.

Wings

Iorek flushed a lovely shade of red when Cruz threw his arms around him and cozied up close. His heart pounded loudly in his ears as he forgot about the rest of the guests. In that moment it was just the two of them. "H-Hi Cruz." He lightly chuckled and as casually as he could as a nervous nelly, pulled his friend-boyfriend-crush-something...Cruz...into as best of a hug as he could manage while holding birthday goodies. "Good to see--oh..."

Annnnd there goes that moment. The gargoyle straightened up and looked behind him to see the Zurine following on his coat tails.

Reks coughed as they broke apart. "Oh, uh...thanks Anita." He gently handed her the gift box and looked back to the other guests. Jeez he as such an a**. With the families busy schedule it had been another long time since he had really seen anyone and he couldn't shake the awkward feeling.

Even sharing a smile with Cesc felt forced. Especially to see how grown up the now sigel was looking. So much for his role of being the older raevan. He was getting passed left and right by younger ravens growing bodies while he was still a stub with a head, arms, and sharp objects tacked on.

"Forget about me. Look at you. You look well...amazing. Wow." The frei looked his friend up and down with a much approving look on his face. "How does it feel to be a little more whole? Try a lot of good foods?" After all, that seemed to be the first thing all sigels did. Eat and eat a lot.

Snoof

Cruz grinned all the while between everyone as Anita saw to arranging things. It was only when his friends began interacting that he noticed any strangeness. His arms were still wrapped around Reks, brows raised as he studied Cesc, Iorek, Zurine, and Ethiriel separately. It was Anita's turn to keep Tango out of the way for now and it allowed him to get a clearer picture of everyone's body language.

Something was amiss but he wasn't sure what. They were all friends too, weren't they? Cesc and Iorek certainly did, Ethiriel and Zurine too. But oh-- oh no. What if not everyone here knew each other? How silly was he!!

"Ah--" Cruz rumbled abruptly and glanced between them, "Yorek? Thiriel?" he called out to them in particular, lifting his silver knick-knack to call her attention. "Have you met?"

His eyes then quickly found Rhedefre and Zurine with brows raised. "Zuri, met Yorek and Cesc?"

Atma

Cesc grinned at Iorek, although the expression wasn't quite as easy as he wanted it to be. His mind was niggling him; it was becoming obvious he wasn't greeting Zurine -- he always greeted everyone, everyone, what was wrong with him? His chest ached for the words to do it, but he wasn't sure his expression wouldn't betray him if he did.

"A lot of food, yeah," he said, still managing a smile. "It's been -- it's been nice."

Then Cruz -- oh, damnit -- assumed he didn't even KNOW Zurine. Damn it. Damn it. Too late.

Cesc turned awkwardly toward the bird. He had to force his eyes toward her.

She was thinner. Her eyes were quieter, less brilliant. Maybe it was a trick of the light, but that sweet delicacy that made itself home in all her details seemed turned into fragility. It stung. Cesc met her gaze and then snapped his eyes to Cruz. He smiled, faint.

"N--o, I know Zurine."

Soo-ree-neh. Pronouncing it was like blowing dust off a book.

His voice was plastic. He smiled and turned back toward her, not quite meeting her eye. "It's nice -- nice to see you."

PK

Zurine's shoulders tightened, her wings drawing in too, almost in self-sheltering. She wasn't going to show she was upset, not -clearly- anyway. If there was anything in the world that Cesc deserved, it was not having to clean up after her emotional upsets. Still, when he said her name and then looked at her, something in her chest ached. "A-ah. Ah, er, yes." Her hands ran up over her arms, as if to warm them. "Hello, Cesc. N-nice to see you too." She swallowed hard. "A-and... everyone else! I'm just... g-glad to be able to come out and see everyone!" Her voice had gone fragile and bright, her smile a little bit false. "It's been awhile since I saw -anyone- so it's... it's really nice to see you all, a-and for such... such a happy occasion... I missed everyone." Her eyes lingered on Cesc, unable or unwilling to meet his gaze again, but certainly the rest of him -- he had grown! Surely he hadn't missed her? Hastily she cut off that line of thought. Nothing good could be down that direction.

Neon

Ethiriel raised her chin as she was called, her eyes immediately drawn to the silver in Cruz's hand. 'Yorek?' He must have been the new scent; cold and earthy.

"I have not had the pleasure," she replied, dipping her head in a polite bow.

Wings

Iorek arched a brow at the exchange between Cesc and Zurine. At least he wasn't as awkward as they were. Jeez....he could cut the tension in the air with a single drag of his claw if he wanted to.

The raevan snorted and glanced back to his and Cruz's linked arms. it was. very nice to be so close to him. He smelled absolutely exquisite today. Maybe his pal was like wine? Just getting better with age. Before he lost himself too much in just admiring their proximity and just how nice it was to be so close, Reks' attention was placed on the cute little raevan that looked remarkably like a tree elf.

"Oh, heh, yes, nice to meet you." He smiled warmly and did a little bow of the head to somewhat mimic her graceful movement. "Nice to see someone new for sure. How long have you two known each other?"

Atma

Cesc had never felt so uncomfortable in the whole of his life. Social engagements were his wheelhouse. He could converse with anyone, enjoy anyone's company, and here he was, ******** looking like those eighth grade couples at the bakery who pinched cupcakes and talked to each others' shoes.

Ah, well. At least Reks looked like he was having fun.

"It's 'Iorek, or Reks, for short,'" Cesc told Ethiriel in a lowered, friendly tone. "He's one of the nicest Raevans I've ever met."

Snoof

Now that everyone was getting introduced and familiar, things seemed to be going a little better. Cruz pursed his lips and observed his friends interactions closely. It still wasn't quite the right atmosphere but it was getting better. That must have been the issue, they just needed to still get comfortable with each other.

"Nobody else is coming," he assured them all with a smile. Hopefully that would weigh easily on their minds, not having to meet any other new folks for this gathering.

"Everybody's here?" Anita piped up while holding Tango by his collar. Cruz nodded to his guardian with a wide grin, still clutching to Reks' arm. "Alright," she laughed, "I'll leave you guys to it, then. I'm just gonna be in the other room so let me know if you need anything or want to start on presents."

She began leading Tango past the newest arrivals so he could hang back as well and not get in their way, at least until everyone got settled, but stopped halfway. "Oh! Guys-- Zuri and Reks? Cesc? What do you eat? I'll wrangle up what I can for you."

Atma

"Ah, don't worry about me," said Cesc to Anita as he patted his stomach. "I'm easy now."

PK

Zuri drew a deep breath, straightening her shoulders as best she could, and looked up to Anita with a smile that she was doing her best to feel. "A-a cup of ice would be nice," she said, smiling. "If that's all right?" With the keenest moment of emotion having been experienced and found at least less catastrophic than she'd feared, she stepped back from her feelings, to deal with them later. Now was not the time to wallow -- it was important to her than Cruz enjoy his birthday gathering.

Wings

Reks was brimming from cheek to cheek with a content smile as Cruz held onto his arm. It felt so nice. He felt like a character right out of one of Lil's schmoopy romance movie. This must be what they feel like! Aah so good.

Anita snapped him out of his dazed happy cloud, "Oh! I brought some rocks since I wasn't sure if you would um...have them. Kind of a weird thing for people to have in their homes if not in a garden or decoration." He flushed, suddenly recalling a time when he was younger and stuffing his gullet with a pet rock collection Tyson's friends had. Not one of his brightest moments...

Snoof

"Oh yeah?" Anita raised her brows and grinned at Cesc, "Help yourself to anything in the fridge and pantry then."

At the mention of the other two diets, she and Cruz both leaned in with interest. Without warning, the croc detached from his gargoyle friend and fluttered his way to the open kitchen to retrieve a glass. "I'll get it," he chimed.

In turn, Anita creased her brow and gave Iorek an apologetic smile. "Yeah, I'm sorry, we don't keep rocks around... I'll keep that in mind for next time, though."

While Cruz filled a tall mug until it nearly overflowed for Zurine, Anita gestured with her bit of silver to Ethiriel, and in turn for all of the others. "I'll just be in the other room for a bit, with the door open. Let me know if you guys need anything or want to start on gifts. I'll try to keep the pup out of your way. "

"Thank you, Nita," Cruz purred as he held out Zuri's food to her.

[Snoofington]

Atma

Cesc straightened. His mind was feeding him unwanted memories -- shaved ice in cool springtime -- and he needed to focus on the present. The truly uncomfortable present.

"Thanks, Anita," he called, smiling after the woman. Not that he would have minded Tango staying out here.

He turned toward Cruz. Ah, well. At least Reks looked happy. (Were Cruz and Reks...? It was annoying how little he knew.)

"So, birthday boy -- any wishes for this next year?"

Snoof

While Tango was being coaxed out for now, Cruz was sure he would roam back out sooner or later. It was better for them all to have time to get settled, the pup included, since things seemed to get off to a bit of a flustered start. Now everyone seemed to be getting comfortable and it made the croc beam at all of them.

"Wishes," he breathed. Those were usually saved for blowing out candles on a cake, he knew, but he couldn't eat cake yet so that was out. "Just want everyone to be happy. Have fun, be together, be safe."

Cruz looked between all of his friends and smiled wider. "And see you guys more."

PK

Having accepted her cup of ice, Zuri occupied her mouth and her thoughts with the food, and she exhaled a soft cloud of cool vapor as she smiled a little bit. Cruz's smile was a little warming, distracting her further from her own nagging thoughts. "I haven't been able to come out for awhile now... but I'm glad to be able to today," she said softly, gently prodding at the ice in her cup with one dainty fingertip.

Wings

Iorek shared a smile and nodded along with Zuri, "Same here. It's nice to get out and see everyone. By how things have been and my solitude I'm surprised I'm actually not as stiff as a statue!" He chuckled at his own little joke and looked around the room at everyone. "Ah..heh, anyways, yeah. I think your wish will definitely come true today. We can all promise that." Unless some kind of bizarre change of events happen and something came hurdling into the apartment or thieves attacked they should all be A'OK. But...that would all be pretty cool...but definitely not safe like Cruz was wishing for. Best to just be safe and happy with friends even if fighting off bandits sounded like fun.

Atma

"Those are great birthday wishes," said Cesc with a smile. He lifted himself from his seat. "Actually -- if you've got a candle, I brought you a cupcake. You could make it official, if you want!"

Snoof

At the round of agreements, all Cruz could do was beam. His eyes practically sparkled like gems with all his excitement ready to burst forth but the croc kept himself as collected as he could.

"You did?" he blinked curiously at Cesc, then gave the stag a wry grin, "Can't eat it. Can you eat it for me? Or-- oh! Share with 'Nita." Cruz pointed excitedly to the room she disappeared into, "I make the wish, you split it."

He thought this was an ingenious way of not letting such a gift go to waste.

Atma

Cesc scratched the back of his head somewhat self consciously, taking the box from where he'd set it and bringing it into the room proper.

"No," he said. "I knew that -- I just -- well, I kind of ... made one for you and for Anita. Your own flavors. It's just a ... thing I thought would be nice."

He opened the bakery box to reveal a foursome of cupcakes. Two were tall and sharp-looking, bright green frosting extending high from the golden, red-flecked cake. There was a little sprig that looked like mistletoe laying on the side of the frosting. The other two were mostly unadorned, save for a drizzle of what looked like slow-moving caramel down the sides. Those were in see-through cupcake liners, and one could easily see the cake had been cut into three uneven pieces, with a cloud of whipped cream in between. Atop the cupcake was a tiny triangle sign with an 'A' scripted on it.

"Two each, if you ... ah... she... wants to share."

Neon

"What a kind gesture," Ethiriel chimed, offering a smile to the bit of silver around the sigel's neck -- or who she assumed.

For the most part she was definitely enjoying the small get-together, but she couldn't help but remain silent as everyone spoke; they all knew each other and were catching up from what it seemed, so she partially didn't want to interrupt.

Snoof

As soon as Cesc began to explain the cupcakes more, Cruz closed his mouth. He watched with child-like curiosity as the box opened and let out nothing short of a gasp at the carefully crafted treats within.

The green one was so obviously designed for him, Cruz cupped his hands over his mouth and leaned in closer to get a better look. They all smelled sweet, something he knew his guardian adored. Just having the box opened almost made him feel like they all weren't at the apartment but at the bakery. The other one wasn't so obviously designed, as far as he could tell, without the "A" label, but it smelled just as sweet and appealing.

"Nita!" Cruz called out, refusing to take his eyes off the box, "Come here! You're a cupcake!"

There was a stumble from the other room, then a laugh. Tango trotted out first before Anita rounded the corner. "What?"

Wings

Reks stared in awe at the beautiful treats Cesc revealed. If he had a stomach it would be rumbling right about now. Although he wasn't able to enjoy the delicate patisseries he knew they would be delicious. At times like this he was jealous of the sigels and their bellies. As yummy as rocks were, the gargoyle felt like he was missing out on a great deal of pleasure because he couldn't eat true food.

Unconsciously Iorek patted the ribbon that drifted lazily over where he suspected his stomach would grow one of these days. "They're beautiful, Cesc. You made them all by yourself? They look like they were crafted by fairies or something."

He gingerly moved in closer to get a good look without intruding on anyone else's view (he hoped) or badgering the birthday boy. The stoney-teen couldn't help but want a closer look at his good friend's creation. Nimble hands made these. Gentle fingers he felt envious of not possessing. Every time Lillian or Tyson coaxed him into the kitchen to try cooking some utensil was broken or in shambles by the end of it. One of these days he'd figure a way around his clumsy creature hands...and hopefully that would be sooner rather than later.

"I think you and Anita make wonderful cupcakes. Probably taste better in this sugary form than you actually would." He said looking up with a goofy and unfortunately teethy grin.

Atma

Cesc smiled as Anita laughed and then Reks spoke, the expression honestly pleased but somewhat self-conscious. He shifted the box's weight in his arms and cleared his throat slightly.

"Yeah -- nice thing about having a stomach now, I get to play with flavors." Before, it had all been skill work with his hands, making things look pretty and tasting basic ingredients as much as his rune would allow. Now -- now things were so much easier.

He lifted his gaze and grin to Reks. "When you get a stomach, I'll give you yours. Already know what it's gonna be, actually."

Neon

Ethiriel hadn't initially caught onto Reks' original comment over Cesc's growth, but upon hearing him mention his stomach she looked up. She wasn't sure which bit of silver belonged to her stag friend, but she glanced around at their dancing decorations. She wanted to chime in, to ask him personally, but with so many people around him admiring his work, she almost envied everyone else.

"They smell absolutely lovely," she said, offering her friend a serene smile.

Wings

Iorek chuckled and licked his lips as he wondered what a cupcake actually would taste like. Lillian and Tyson described them as sweet and vastly different than the taste of rocks. "You do, huh? Well now I have another reason to grow as soon as possible." Course it was never as easy as it sounded. Iorek truly had no idea how he was supposed to get bigger and mightier. The whole process just seemed a bit like a mystery even if it was described to him by the sigels. Each one grew differently and for some kind of reason. What could his be?

"She's right." He said nodding his head towards Eth. "They smell really good. Better than rocks and that's saying something."

Atma

"Thank you, guys. And I know better than rocks is a big compliment from you, Reks," laughed Cesc. He noticed Ethiriel's movement, searching for him to direct her comments (for what he knew) at him. He set the cupcake box down on the coffee table and put his hand on her shoulder so that she might know which of the silver pieces was his. He smiled, bright. "Actually, Eth -- I already made your flavor for you. You were one of the first ones that came to me."

He turned slightly toward Anita. "I hope you like them. I'm happy to tell you what they are."

Neon

"You are too kind," the tea Frei responded. Her hand met his atop her shoulder, and she made note of that particular bit of silver to be his. "Hopefully someday I shall be able to partake."

PK

Zuri was quiet, admiring the treats while she snacked lightly on her own. Her own gift seemed small now to her, but she was pleased to see her friends happy.

Snoof

Cruz cracked a smile at Iorek while he took to complimenting Cesc's handiwork. They really did look like fairy-spun sugar treats. "You already know what I taste like," the croc joked with an equally toothy smile. He hoped he tasted better than rocks, too.

His guardian rubbed her face with a hand before approaching further and peering at the box while the other raevans gave Cesc proper credit.

"Oh, wow, these are incredible," she noted with wide eyes, "Thank you! Yeah, please, what are they?"

Anita held her hands out to take the box and free up the stag. "And should I put them in the fridge or are they fine on the counter?"

Atma

"Ah -- it depends, they can be left on the counter for a little," answered Cesc. "The -- the Anitas, the ones with the 'A's, those are sea-salt malted cake with fresh whipped cream in the layers and fresh caramel drizzled on top. The cream won't be good out, so if you don't want it now, it's best in the fridge. The Cruz flavor is a vanilla cake with crushed candy cane and a green hot-chocolate frosting with a, ah, marshmallow mistletoe."

Snoof

Anita and Cruz both hung onto Cesc's every little description of the delicious gifts. Anita flavor, Cruz flavor. It was a bit humbling, at least for the croc's guardian, and a slight bit of pink graced her cheeks as she admired the cupcakes. "I'll have one now and put the other away," she decided.

Cruz looked at his own cupcake with all the more wonder now that he knew its components. He never quite had frustration about being unable to eat food like this before but it was Cesc's own work, designed and created especially for him! It was a sweet gesture with an even sweeter flavor, he gathered, and Cruz wanted to be able to enjoy the gift to its fullest. "Nita, make sure Nerva eats mine," he pleaded, hanging on to one of her arms while she took her first bite.

She looked like she was in heaven. "That's amazing, thank you so much, Cesc." Anita glanced at Cruz, who was leaning just a touch too close. "Are you doing other presents, too?"

The croc snapped to attention and looked around the room. Ethiriel and Zurine, especially, seemed very unengaged with the current situation and Iorek was politely hanging back with Cesc. "No," Cruz rumbled and detached himself from his guardian, "Let's play a game! Be right back--" with that, he disappeared into his bedroom. When Cruz returned, it was with a small plastic cup with something small jostling around inside. Anita slumped.

"Really?"

"Yes." His guardian sighed and moved herself to the nearest chair. Cruz didn't mind but he also didn't think they particularly needed supervision for this game. "Everyone on the floor, please," he directed while retrieving a bottle of water from the fridge. He poured out its contents into a glass and gave that to Anita before joining his friends with the empty bottle.

Neon

Ethiriel didn't speak up but instead held out her hand for anyone to take. There was a moment of hesitation, nearly pulling back her hand entirely but she kept it out.

Snoof

Cruz was quick to set the items needed for the game on the floor, where he wanted the group to congregate. It only took a quick sweep to notice Ethiriel's silent request for help and the croc hovered over to take her hand in both of his to guide her.

Neon

The silver frei offered a nod and a gentle smile for the croc as he aided her, as well as a quiet word of thanks. Ethiriel took her place next to Cruz as he set the game up.

Atma

Cesc looked pleased as Anita took a bite out of her cupcake, his own face coloring slightly as she seemed to enjoy it, and as Cruz asked for someone else to make sure and eat his. It was a new thing, trying out flavor combinations, but it was so gratifying to get a good response.

Without much else in his head but that relief, Cesc made his way down to the ground, on the other side of Ethiriel.

"What's this?" he murmured, situating himself more comfortably.

PK

Zuri had seen enough movies to know what Spin the Bottle was. The little bit of color that was in her face paled, but she moved over to nestle down on the ground, trying not to sit too close to anyone. "This," she said, looking up at Cesc with a faint, sheepish look, "appears to be spin the bottle."

Neon

"Would someone perhaps explain to me what 'spin the bottle' is?" Ethiriel asked. Neither Leo nor Henry had ever played movies that mentioned it at all in her lifetime.

Atma

"I think," said Cesc, his voice thin until he cleared his throat. He very specifically did not look at either Zurine or Ethiriel. "-- that it's a kissing game."

Snoof

Cruz pursed his lips as the questions and assumptions came pouring in. A kissing game, yes, Cesc was right on the money.

"Ah. Spin the bottle to pick a person," he explained very simply before picking up the dice, "roll dice to pick what you do. Hugs and kisses and stuff."

With some hesitance, Cruz looked around at his group of friends. "No good?"

Off to the side, Anita interjected, "You don't have to go through with anything you don't want to." The croc always forgot to clarify that even though she knew by now it was what he meant. This definitely needed supervision.

PK

"It's fine," Zuri said hastily, steeling herself and bracing her thin shoulders. "It's your birthday, you call the shots, right?" Her smile was a little brittle.

Neon

Lifting her chin, Ethiriel gave a very short 'ah,' before relaxing her position just a bit. "I understand," she said, not sounding uncomfortable in the least -- instead, she remained just as calm as when they were brought together.

Wings

Iorek just kept his trap shut and followed the birthday boy and friends to the floor. He knew exactly what spin the bottle was and as he settled on a spot his eyes locked on the bottle. "Uh...okay." And now he was really hoping he didn't smell weird...or taste weird...or just wasn't weird in general today. If he had known this was going to be the party activity Reks would of even some sweeter rocks for a snack instead of the salty ones. “It’s an interesting game. Easy to play.” Oddly enough he actually had experience with it. Just once. But he still remembers nuzzling up against a certain man.

Atma

Cesc wanted to bow out. Fairly badly, too. He wanted to smile and laugh and hold up both of his hands and say thanks, really, but he was out on this one.

After all, could this possibly be a worse crowd for this? He wasn't keen on kissing either of the males involved, and he couldn't think of a more awkward scenario than kissing Zurine for the first time he'd seen her since --- and then, kissing Ethiriel in front of her didn't seem like a BETTER option, but...

... but everyone... and Cruz...

Cesc smiled.

"Nah, no worries," he heard himself say.

Snoof

Things seemed a little more tense than the croc anticipated. Besides Ethiriel, most of his quests appeared quite shy. That was something he was used to, his own guardian feeling similar about such things and outright refusing to play this game every time he tried.

Maybe once things got going they would feel better but Anita was right. "Don't have to if you don't want to," Cruz agreed. No explanation for why or judgment needed. He didn't want anyone to be uncomfortable but, for him, this game was very fun and nice.

With them all sat in a circle, Cruz put his hand on the bottle in the middle. "Should I go first?"

Atma

"Yeah," said Cesc. "-- yeah, show us how it, uh, works."

Snoof

"Okay." Cruz smiled and leaned into the circle to spin it properly. The empty plastic bottle turned a little unsteadily but stayed in its center spot, coming to a halt at Iorek.

He beamed at the gargoyle and eagerly scooped up the dice into the small plastic cup. Covering the bottom, he shook them up and gently deposited them onto the hardwood floor. Hold. Hand. Easy!

Leaning over, Cruz took one of Reks' big stony palms with both of his and gave the other frei a very toothy smile.

"Like that."

Wings

Iorek's whole torso did a little jump from the excitement and nerves that washed over him when the bottle faced his way. He had been hoping he'd get lucky enough for some affection from the croc but boy he didn't expect it to be so early! And the look Cruz was giving him! Oh it made his chest ache.

"Ah...heh...well then." His cheeks turned a light red and he eagerly leaned over to see what they would do.

Hold Hands.

With all the glee bubbling up and over him, Iorek didn't pay any mind to his usual weirdness about his hands compared to others. This was just too nice. He smiled happily at Cruz and just did a little nod.

"Y-Yeah. Piece of cake." Iorek uttered after clearing his throat of a giggle that had been dying to wiggle free.

Snoof

The gesture itself was nice. Though kisses were his preference and his source of nourishment, holding hands and physical affection were always welcomed. Cruz gave Reks' hand a gentle squeeze before pulling back and pointing at the bottle.

"Now you go."

Wings

Iorek didn't wipe the grin from his face even when he and Cruz separated. Sure it was short lived but it was still very nice to have done.

Now it was his turn to go.

The gargoyle took a deep breath and glanced around at the group as he gave the bottle a good spin. When the piece of glass stopped on the pretty blue girl, Iorek's wings quivered. Now would be a bad time to check his breath, right?

He took up the dice, did a good shake, and tossed them to the floor. Hug neck.

Reks chuckled at how easy it was and if not a little odd. "Umm...I'll be gentle." He certainly didn't want to squeeze to prevent her head from popping off. Carefully Iorek leaned over and wrapped his arms around Zuri's neck, only when they were touching foreheads did he realize just how close they were to one another. He tried to maneuver himself so they weren't all up on one another but still! Close proximity was unavoidable. So much for hugs being easy.

[Snoofington]

Atma

Cesc couldn't help but smile as the crocodile slid his hand into Reks', at the expression that blossomed over his gargoyle friend's face. Maybe the game wasn't so bad, really, if he took himself and his own feelings out of the equation?

Well. That thought was tested almost instantly. Rhedefre dropped his eyes to the bottle as Iorek hugged Zurine closely, his large hand along her slender neck -- man, the bottle's curves were suddenly tremendously interesting.

PK

For a moment, Zuri was surprised -- her, already? She certainly wasn't prepared -- but Iorek was so cute and unsure, and she felt her concern soften. She didn't mind, even though he was much bigger than she was -- she laughed softly as his strong arms wrapped around her. "Ooh -- ahaha, a hug's always nice, isn't it?" she asked, smiling up at Reks. For a moment she could forget that anything was strange. She missed contact and affection, even if it was just because of a game. "Thank you very much, Iorek..." A stranger or not, he was clearly sweet.

Wings

"It is!" Iorek laughed as he bumped their foreheads together and gave her a careful squeeze. Alright, so far spin the bottle was great! Hand holding, hugging, and having his friends to fool around with was turning out to be a good deal of fun. Zuri like Cruz was so soft and smelled delicious.

The raevan squeezed her gently one last time and pulled away. "Heh, thanks."

PK

"All right then," Zuri said, once she'd righted herself, her smile a little more genuine despite the butterflies in her chest. The bottle could decide to be very cruel to her indeed... But she reached out for it, and took hold, flicking it until it wobbled in an awkward spin, and finally pointed toward Cruz. The butterflies eased up a bit, and she smiled honestly at Cruz. One of the easier options, all things considered...

The dice were next, and she took a moment to hope for something easy as they rattled in the cup, and then spilled out onto the floor. "I get to hug Cruz's... face..." She bit her lip, then couldn't help laughing a little. "Oh dear. Well... I suppose it's law, hm?" She floated over toward Cruz.

Snoof

This seemed to be going along much better now. Cruz smiled brightly at his friends as they settled into ease and laughter. The dice results were certainly silly sometimes but that was half the fun!

Cruz gave a soft "yay" when Zuri's spin landed on him. Laughter followed -- another silly one!

"Ready for face hug," he announced, craning his neck to lean across the way and make Zuri's job easier.

PK

Leaning in, Zuri smiled as she wrapped her arms around Cruz's head, gently. This, of course, gently pressed her chest directly against her friend's face. Her cheeks flushed with soft, pale blue. "Hah -- there, does your... face feel well-hugged?" she asked, as she pulled back a bit.

Snoof

There was no blush to be found on Cruz, no awkward excitement, just a very earnest sense of contentment at being touched in a friendly manner. The mistletoe frei closed his eyes and enjoyed the embrace with a soft, quiet rumble in his throat.

"Yes. Thank you, Zuri." He sidled back, gesturing for Cesc to take his turn. "You're very soft."

Anita covered her face with a hand and sighed.

Atma

Cesc pulled in his bottom lip and looked at the ceiling for a long moment. He wasn't quite understanding the emotions that were pricking his gut. He felt suddenly and very expressly annoyed at the game. At his friends. At fate in general. It was, for the generally-calm stag, an odd and awkward feeling, the way the annoyance ripped through him so quickly, the way he felt suddenly and viscerally angry at Cruz for having a head to hug. For saying Zurine was SOFT.

And the immediate confusion afterward for even having the goddamn feeling in the first place. Zuri was, very clearly and definitively, not his. Cruz had every right to have a head above his shoulders.

Yes. Well.

It was his turn now. His turn to not break the stupid bottle in his stupid hands.

"Oh -- right, yes, sorry, let me just -- "

The bottle spun a little quickly, and it was a few good seconds before it slowed to stop on.... Iorek. Cesc smiled a touch awkwardly, but the expression got strange and helpless when he read the dice.

"Oh -- ah --" He looked up at Iorek. "Are you....?"

Wings

Iorek chuckled when the bottle landed on him. He was even bold enough to give his pal a silly wink. Cesc was a dear friend after all, so it wasn't like this was going to be weird. Plus the dice was preferring hugs and holding so what was something between good---oh.

The gargoyle immediately turned a brilliant shade of deep red. His pointed ears twitched and even his wings reacted. They opened so fast it was as if someone had pressed a button on his back.

Nothing like spin the bottle to make you question friendship at a rapid pace. Who doesn't wonder about that kind of stuff but when it's presented to you like this. Whelp...

"Uh...well...I'm not one to turn down a challenge--not that kissing you would be a challenge or anything! You're a really great guy, and handsome, and nice, and uh...friend." Reks stumbled to quickly add but his stumbling just made things a touch more awkward.

To do a kiss...on the lips...in front of Cruz...guess it was okay? But as he looked over his friend, the way Cesc was looking at him didn't really encourage good funny feelings. Eeesh. "But..if you're not comfortable that's totally cool, Cesc." He gave a little shrug and sported a supporting smile. "I know my beauty is intimidating." Haha?

Atma

Well, this was just turning out to be a fine afternoon! Iorek, at least, seemed just as awkward about it as he did.

"It is. It is. I'm pretty intimidated, I'm not going to lie." Cesc couldn't help but start laughing at the ridiculousness of the situation, his own cheeks starting to color. He leaned forward, pressing one palm down on the ground and lengthening his neck toward Iorek. His ears flickered and pressed back -- Iorek seemed mildly concerned and he himself wasn't overjoyed at the idea of kissing a man, so Cesc didn't create any physical intimacy between them.

His other hand he put on Iorek's cheek, then gently at the back of his neck, guiding him forward. He was still laughing quietly, so his lips were tight and pulled back, but he angled his face and kissed his friend lightly on the lips, friendly and wholesome.

That wasn't so bad, right?

PK

Zuri sat back, and did her best not to watch. She wished that she could have had something -else- to focus on, something that didn't make her heart flutter with frustrated disappointment. Instead, she settled on staring, awkward as an owl, while her wings puffed themselves out involuntarily with a faint tinkle of icy feathers.

Wings

Honestly Reks wasn't sure if Cesc was going to go through with it for a second there. Just like a true stone gargoyle, he remained perfectly still so his pink pal possessed all the control in case of he needed to bail out. But every second he thought Cesc would pull away he actually drew closer.

Then HE was pulled in to put an end to the distance. Oh my...The touching was an obvious surprise and the sensation actually sent warm pulses across stone-y skin. Augh, come on Major Reks, lets get back down to earth. It took a brief reminding as they laughed that this was his friend, his buddy, and his pal. But affection always made Reks hungry. He really really liked it.

The moment their lips met was nice. Warm and strangely sweet. A good kiss between friends. Iorek even chuckled into the kiss as he gently returned it before pulling away. Although he was content that it happened he couldn't tell with Cesc. Hopefully he didn't taste or smell gross. "Mm~ Well I'm sure everyone else is hoping they get a turn next. Heh, Thank you, Cesc."

Neon

For the most part, the game was fairly uneventful for the silver Frei as she patiently awaited her turn. She listened to the awkward giggles and conversations of those around her, but once it was her turn she clumsily reached forward until her delicate fingers touched the plastic bottle.

She spun it, though she required the aid of someone else to tell her what exactly she was supposed to do -- which Cruz eagerly provided.

The bottle landed on Tango and she waited for confirmation before gently shaking the cup and releasing the dice; kissing the pup's neck. This she was definitely fine with, but once again she needed assistance to find the pooch. Once her arms were around his neck, she offered a quick 'hello' to the hound before nuzzling her face into his furry neck and offering a quick smooch. It finished with a hum and a gentle squeeze of a hug before she was ushered back to her seat between Cruz and Cesc.

Snoof

The croc was more than eager to assist in Eth's enjoyment of the game, realizing a bit too late they should have perhaps been describing their actions. At least she could see the movements of the silver and hear the laughter, that must have been nice.

As thanks for her kiss, Tango gave her hand a wet one before trotting over to sit with Anita. In truth, he had been included as a bit of a joke but the bottle did point to him.

"Meee," Cruz drew out, as he prepped for his next turn. The bottle spun -- Iorek again. He chuckled and smiled at the stony frei. The dice certainly liked them holding hands.

"Going to hug Yorek's hand," he specified for Ethiriel before leaning over and taking the gargoyle's hulking arm in his far more delicate looking hands. He pulled Iorek's hand to his chest, just over his heart, and wrapped both arms around it.

Wings

Iorek couldn't be more pleased when the bottle landed on him AGAIN for some nice hand holding with his favorite croc. "This is nice." Iorek smiled sweetly at his crush and kept the two of them together as he reached over and spun the bottle.

"Well I guess I'm back to you, Zuri." Reks chuckled, "Guess it's as good a time as any to get to know each other better?" So he tossed the dice and arched a brow at how he had to pull off hugging her cheek. Hmm...

He finally made himself wiggle out of Cruz's grasp so he could lean over Zuri. "Uh...lets see..." His arms encompassed her head and he drew close until her head was against what was there of his chest. "There we go. I don't have soft breasts but I still hope this isn't too bad for you."

PK

Zuri's eyes were wide as she looked up at Reks, again. "A-ah.. hah, well, hello again, you," she said sheepishly as she suddenly found her head resting against his chest. Oh, damn. That was surprisingly nice. A soft breath escaped her and she smiled. "It's not bad at all..."

Atma

Cesc's mood, as well as his affection for Reks and Cruz specifically, was deteriorating. He fought valiantly against it with reason: he loved Cruz and Reks, they were kind and sweet people, there was nothing wrong with what they were doing, and he had never been bothered by watching physical affection in the past. Somehow, currently, he just wanted to excuse himself.

Snoof

Behind them all, there was a dull thunk on the dining room table. Tango startled a little and stood, wagging his tail while sniffing at Anita whose head was now resting and cradled by her arms.

Cruz paid her no mind and just smiled at his friends. He described Iorek's turn to Ethiriel crudely, probably not enough for her to even imagine, but he figured it was better than nothing.

PK

Once they drew apart, Zuri cleared her throat and reached for the bottle again, spinning it. Cruz again. Good, easy, thank heaven for Cruz. The dice rolled, and then landed on 'cup hand'. "Cup your hand? How in -- how am I supposed to cup your hand?" she asked, looking up at Cruz sheepishly as she floated in a little closer, reaching out for it. "Is it like hand-holding, but without the... grip...?"

Snoof

Cruz let out a goofy chuckle at the dice results. Poor Zuri's confusion over them only made it more amusing. "Sure," he offered very unhelpfully as he held out one hand. He left it open palmed for Zuri's touch and the contact didn't linger; it felt a bit silly to hold hands without actually holding anything at all.

"Cesc," the croc murmured as he pulled back from the owl's cool touch.

Atma

Cesc eyes snapped down to the bottle and his movement was brittle as he flicked the object. He didn't know who the hell he wanted it to land on. He didn't know how someone won this game, so it could be over. He was unused to feeling so barely in control of his expressions and feelings, and not for the first time, he cursed his inability to turn his calm aura inward.

He couldn't let it get much worse. He knew what happened when it got worse, and he didn't need any feathers snapping off and crackling into thin air.

Thankfully, fate stopped the bottle at the dog. The dice, too, basically offered him an outlet: petting Tango.

Cesc let out a laugh. "Oh -- touch forehead, Tango. C'mere, boy. C'mere." He held out his hand and pet the dog's head, scratching behind his ears, smiling earnestly. The dog! Bless this ******** dog.

Neon

It was Ethiriel's roll again, and while Cruz's commentary did help, the game had proved very dull on her part -- though she wasn't about to mention that aloud. For all she knew, everyone else was having a good time and she couldn't put a damper on that.

With Cruz as her guide, she spun the bottle and it landed beside her on Cesc; something she wasn't at all adverse to. Then the dice; cup his lips. What a strange thought.

"Rhedefre," she said, gently reaching her hand out toward the silver that hung around his neck, meeting his chest before it traveled upward. It was a slow motion, her fingers gently tracing his neck and chin, but once they met his lips they softly ran across the length before her palm rested lightly on top.

Atma

"Yes?" Cesc looked up as Ethiriel said his name, the hair on the back of his neck standing as her hand touched his chest. She'd landed on him, to -- what -- wait --

He kept his mouth closed and his eyes flicked downward for a moment. Wait, was that all? She was just going t... o... tell him to shut up?

He laughed at that, a warm puff of air against her palm.

Neon

Ethiriel let out a small laugh at Cesc's, though she had no idea what it was about. He must not have heard Cruz's instructions.

As she pulled her hand away, she gently stroked the stag's bottom lip with her thumb. Ethiriel gave him a gentle smile, her eyes lingering on his decoration.

PK

For a moment, Zuri felt her wings threaten to snap open. They quivered as she forcibly flattened them against her back. Her lips pressed tight into a pale line and her expression went still. She had absolutely no right to feel any type of way about this, but she did anyway, and her skin chilled further, almost immediately. Oh, this was -not- good.

Snoof

Zurine's wings snapping to attention caught Cruz's gaze immediately. Her shift was instantaneous and the croc's shoulders went rigid in time. What had her tense? Cruz pursed his lips, not able to find anything threatening or bad going on. Ethiriel taking her turn with Cesc was a pleasant sight.

A bit more hesitantly than before, with his eyes locked on Zuri, Cruz spun the bottle. "Thiriel," he purred as the tea frei pulled away from the stag, "gotta touch your mouth."

With a gentle approach, the mistletoe frei lifted Ethiriel's chin with a few of his fingers. The proximity was very familiar and it made Cruz hyperaware of how little he had actually eaten today. Still, he had to play by the rules -- he didn't roll a kiss, even if he was leaning very close. For a moment, to the others, it must have looked like he was about to close his eyes and go for it anyway. Instead, he curved his index finger and lightly brushed Ethiriel's lips. A smile took over, then, and he straightened his finger out, pressing it over her mouth.

"Shhhh," he chuckled before pulling back and holding her arm.

Neon

It took a moment for Ethiriel to tear her gaze away from Cesc's ring, but as Cruz explained further she turned her head toward him. She allowed him to maneuver her however he pleased, her chin easily following his fingers as he softly ran his fingers over her lips.

It was a nice sensation, she couldn't deny, and she closed her eyes. The pressure a moment later, however, caused her to open her eyes and purse her lips in surprise -- though it was followed by a soft laugh.

Wings

Annnnnnd so much for being a bundle of chuckles and smiles. He was laughing along with the group and having a lovely time until he heard Cruz say something about touching someone's mouth. It was at that moment that something in Iorek turned cold. With his lower eyelid twitching ever so slightly he watched just how close Cruz and Ethiriel became. They looked so intimate...and pleasant...and he actually felt the urge to shove them a part as forcefully as he could.

But that wasn't his place. It was all good fun. Just..a pleasant game. Cruz didn't get angry when he kissed Cesc or goofed off with Zurine. Who was he to control anything that the other did? Course..they were still holding hands after...hrm.

Iorek was back to snickering just seconds after his roll. Tango! Perfect. He looked for the puppy dog. Seemed like the dice landed him on always on the perfect moments. "Lets give you some more love, huh?" He outstretched his hand and when his new furry friend took to licking it Reks got closer and closer until he was able to scoop him up and into his arms. "There we go! Now, if you don't mind, lemme pet your head." Boy, dogs are awesome.

PK

While Reks was busy cuddling the puppy, Zurine took her turn, too. When the bottle pointed at him, she looked a little puzzled... but then when she rolled the dice to go with it, she looked sheepish. "Okay. Well... I get to... nuzzle your lips, Iorek." How did that even... work...

In any case, she floated closer to him, bent on keeping this part pleasant. Fine. If everyone was just going to -do- the things and it was just going to be -like that-, then she'd do this too...

She reached out, and once the pup slid out of Iorek's arms, she gently cupped the gargoyle's cheeks with her chilly, dainty fingers, and gave him a smile. "Hehe... well, I guess we get to know each other really quickly..." she said softly, her voice a little shy as she leaned in toward him to give him the intended nuzzle, her cool smooth cheek soft against its target.

Wings

"Uh....wha?" Iorek asked when he heard his name. He had been far too distracted with petting Tango to listen to the first half. He smiled as Zurine drew near but still wasn't exactly sure what the dice had told her to do. He could merely gulp and wait. The sensation was definitely something else. The cold touch felt comforting on his burning cheek. Firm but gentle...a perfect combination. And now if Iorek was asked to say something all that would come out would be pitiful sputters.

Atma

This time, rather than look away, Cesc forced himself to watch. He had to desensitize himself from this, didn't he? After all, that's what Zurine had wanted -- why she'd pulled herself away from him, right? So she could -- do this. To other people.

Not that he was much in the way of knowing what she wanted, anyway. He thought he had, once. Whenever that had been. Maybe he'd been wrong then, too.

He spun the bottle again. It landed on Eth. He mustered a smile for her.

"Eth, looks like I need to hug your face, you alright with that?" The stag crawled closer and gently touched her arm, guiding her to lay her head on his chest.

Neon

The touch to her arm caused Ethiriel to glance back to Cesc, her eyes first drawn to the silver but an attempt was made to meet his eyes -- the silver did indeed help but she still longed for that personal sight again.

Giving a nod, Ethiriel allowed Cesc to guide her to his chest. She inhaled deeply, her hands at either side of their ribbons as if to hold herself up.

Atma

Cesc smiled, although there was still something a little glum about the expression. He was glad for Ethiriel. His own calmness could betray him, leave him, break to his skin, but hers did not -- indeed, she had no reason for it to. He twined his arms around her and cradled her gently in an embrace, warm and safe against him.

He laughed, and his chest rumbled against her. "Feels like I'm trying to get you to take a nap."

Neon

Ethiriel could not see his expression but she could feel that something was off in his voice, the way it rumbled and resonated through her silver. Her eyes opened slightly but she didn't address it, instead gently rubbing her cheek against his chest.

"I would not protest," she attempted to joke, her voice softer than intended.

PK

Zurine was pulling back just in time to hear and see that. Her slim shoulders sagged a little, and she settled back in her place, closing her eyes for a moment. Even her predatory instincts failed her there. Suddenly all of the aggression and denial flattened themselves into a grey mush of disappointment. Right. Good. Let them be happy. Hold in the words until they cracked and turned into nothing and went away.

Good. It was good. Her palms flattened against the floor, as if to steady herself. This damned stupid game had to be almost over, didn't it?

[Snoofington]

Neon

Ethiriel hesitantly pulled away from Cesc, a slight note of worry in her expression but she gave him a reassuring smile before blindly searching for the bottle once more. She gave it a quick spin, and with Cruz announcing for her, it was Zurine's turn for attention. And the dice spoke: neck.

"Lady Zurine," Ethiriel said, offering an arm out for the owl to take.

PK

Zurine looked up when her name was called, and then she looked down at the bottle and the dice and she almost said a -very- unladylike word. Really. Really? She could not have felt less kissable or sexy right at this moment. She looked up, uncomprehending, at Ethiriel for a moment, and then down at the outstretched arm, and then back up at the other girl's face.

Really.

She'd be damned if she was going to let any one of these people outdo her. As if -peeling- herself from the floor, she reached out gracefully and took that arm, gliding closer. She could do this, and she put on her coolest, most swan-like expression of haughty calm, pasting a sugar-snow smile on her lips. "Of course," she murmured, as if the words were butter and wouldn't melt on her tongue.

Neon

Again with the tones; Ethiriel picked up on them but remained silent. She gracefully took Zurine's arm in return and pulled herself close. The tea Frei gently hovered her hands over the owl's arms, finding their way up to her neck and face.

Her lips met Zurine's jawline first, blindly searching for the right area to kiss. Once she found it, Ethiriel lightly parted her lips and gave her fellow Frei a tender kiss along her tendon. The owl's cold skin sent a shiver throughout Ethiriel.

Once she pulled away, she offered her hand back to Cesc or Cruz to take and guide her back to her spot.

PK

Zuri was, despite her attempts at acting the ice queen, left a little bit shivery at that sweet, surprising kiss on her neck. Her cheeks flushed a little and her expression softened slightly. Well. She'd just have to file that one away for later pondering, wouldn't she? When she was less... well, less -everything- that she was feeling today. She was proud of herself, though, that she managed to sit back down without any sort of look on her face other than 'yes well good that's finished'.

Atma

Cesc... wasn't sure what to make of this specific turn of events. He expected another stab of annoyance, but somehow, that didn't actually arrive. He watched Eth's hands flutter over Zurine's collar only with a strange sense of interest. His breath slowed and held as she kissed the owl's neck.

Hm.

He let out the breath silently as he returned to Planet Earth, hoping his emotional state might return with him. He put out his hand for Ethiriel and helped her back to her spot.

"Last round?" Cesc asked hopefully. He wanted to leave the house without too much trauma.

Wings

And Reks just sat there watching with a big dopey smile on his face. When Cesc spoke he just did a little nod in agreement.

Snoof

"Good idea." Anita lifted her head enough to speak and take another long chug of her water

Cruz's lips tightened. The game was a lot of fun so far but he hoped -- no, he prayed -- that he would get a kiss in here somewhere. It was his birthday and he was starving.

"Last round," he agreed reluctantly, spinning the bottle around. Gosh, it sure did like Iorek -- but who could blame it when he was so nice? Then, as if the planets aligned and the clouds parted to shine light down on their very concentrated group, luck smiled on him.

Cruz propelled himself to a float from the floor and practically yelped the gargoyle's name. As best a frei could, the croc launched himself at his friend and wrapped around him. He heard another thud as Anita's head returned to the table.

"Kiss me," he purred a bit dramatically with his eyes and smile carrying an unintended allure of sensuality. It crept in the hungrier he was and by now the croc was famished.

Wings

Reks could hear the angels singing when the bottle landed on him again. How many times was it now? What did Lil say when they were lucking out? That he should buy a lottery ticket! Right! But the thought of winning lots of money was not a concern he had as the dice landed on kiss..on the lips. Smooching Cruz was the jackpot!

Iorek grinned when Cruz launched himself. How did he luck out with such a great guy? So eager and happy to give him a smooch! Even if they had been loving up on others they were just fine coming back to each other's arms.

Arms wide open Iorek swiftly took Cruz into his arms and nuzzled his face into the pretty green hair. Mm~ He smelled so good!

His wings immediately unfurled as his friend? No...boyfriend! Acted out the peak of all romance movies in the span of a few seconds. Internally a loud squeal rang through his head. YES PLEASE!

The gargoyle licked his lips, hungry for the kiss, and swiftly (but as carefully as he could while excited) cupped Cruz's head in his hands. With his securely on Cruz's warm cheeks Iorek leaned in and captured his lips in a kiss.

It started off sweet enough. Tender but nothing a PG rated movie couldn't display. But the longer their lips were pressed together the stronger the urge to deepen it became. Iorek wasn't used to kissing. He hadn't done it too much. A few times with a few raevans and that was pretty much it. And all of the past times he was happily content to keep it tame but now, with his lips pressed against savory Cruz's, he wanted more.

Even if they were in front of others Iorek pulled Cruz to him until there was no room left between them. As their ribbons twirled together Iorek's wings drew around their bodies to shield the kiss from view. He nibbled, nipped, and worked his way into laying claim on Cruz's lips. Sure it was clumsy at first but it didn't take long for Reks to figure out where to move and how to give Cruz the deep kiss he felt the croc deserved. In no time the cute little kiss was spiraling to make-out with Iorek's beastly hunger running the show.

Atma

Cesc looked up, half-laughing, as Cruz finally got a kiss. He smiled pleasantly, assuming Reks and Cruz would have a similar experience kissing as he and Reks had… but… wait.

Waaaaait.

Reks was... Really kissing him. Really. Just kissing the everloving ******** out of Cruz.

That had NOT been how he'd kissed Reks.

He cleared his throat, shifting his weight. Well. Huh. That was... Something new.

Snoof

It started as simply and innocently as any other kiss for Cruz, any feeding gesture he had ever given and ever received to memory. Closed, pursed lips, pressed and kind. The sensation was always warming to the croc, spreading a pleasant heat through his entire body that lit the smoke of his rune well.

He was fond of Iorek's flavor. The gargoyle tasted like salt and moss and earth, not in the way a human would taste if they just shoved a handful of dirt in their mouth or licked a rock but the freshness of these things upon his lips was very welcomed.

And then, then his lips were parted. That was new and strange but the motion wasn't uncomfortable. The deeper kiss was interesting and Cruz leaned into it curiously. Each passing second, he seemed to get pulled further and further into the gargoyle's strong grip and the difference in this kiss from how he usually fed shifted from an innocent experimentation to uncertainty. They were hidden by large wings, hidden from the others, and Cruz heard Anita's chair shift against the floor as his nails dug into the fabric covering Iorek's shoulders.

"Guys?" his guardian called as she stood up, face a bit reddened -- Anita looked as uncomfortable as any of them probably felt at various points this afternoon. "This isn't make out party time, please."

Cruz turned away, parting their lips but stayed connected to his friend. His rune was bright, he was well fed, but it settled heavily in his center in ways the croc couldn't quite place, nor did he particularly want to. Not now.

"Thank you," he said to Iorek a bit more impersonally than one would expect after such a deep and tender kiss. "Ah-- your turn."

PK

Despite herself, Zuri watched the situation with a certain curiosity. So that was what those sorts of kisses looked like from the outside -- she shifted, unsure.

Wings

"Uh..." Reks was knocked back down to sweet reality at the sound of Anita's voice. He blinked a few times as he drew back his wings to uncover them. It looked like he had no clue just how intensely he had been kissing Cruz. The feeling that overcame him in the moment his lips met Cruz's was something that felt good at first and then it raged like wildfire. He just couldn't get enough of the green-haired raven.

"O-Okay..." He muttered quietly and spun the bottle. Just his luck it pointed to Cruz again. Well good thing he hadn't gone too far? Without looking at anyone Iorek tossed the dice. Ah! A kiss on the forehead. How sweet. But after the make out, which he highly enjoyed, Iorek felt a little uncomfortable has he leaned in and gave Cruz a nice peck. He was worried that uncontrollable urge would pop up again and like some caveman he'd drag Cruz in for another snog fest.

Thankfully this time he was a perfect gentleman and kept his lips in check.

PK

Honestly, Zuri just wanted the game to be over at this point, ready to have done with it. She reached for the bottle next, and spun it without thinking too much. Thus far she had been relatively lucky, and nothing -miserable- had come up, so why couldn't that luck just extend a -little- further? She saw it stop, and when she followed it further, her eyes went round. The color drained from her face -- it was pointing straight at Cesc.

Part of her wanted to throw her hands up then and there and say that the dice couldn't -make- her do anything, that they could go and bugger themselves, but another, smaller part said, 'what if this is a good thing? don't you want to touch him?'

Her lips thinned. She picked up the dice and cast them. 'Kiss', she saw, and then 'lips' after. She went white, and looked up at Cesc, her dark eyes wide.

Atma

Well, that was something. Iorek and Cruz parted with both looking a little light-headed from the experience, and Cesc's cheeks were flushed and his expression was one of half-laughing alarm, confused and completely uncomfortable. His eyebrows were in his hair, his cheeks bright, and his smile had twisted and failed but not-yet fallen.

He felt like there was stone in his shoulders, they were so tense. Why was he TENSE? All of this stuff was just expressions of physical affection, the type he had every day with his family -- there was no reason why this should all make him so uncomfortable.

Maybe it was something else. The laying of cards on the table. Iorek had laughed and joked when they'd shared their awkward kiss. They hadn't WANTED to kiss. Iorek -- Iorek WANTED to kiss Cruz. His face spoke volumes about what he wanted from Cruz, but Cesc couldn't see anything in Cruz's face that spoke to a similar longing. He seemed... something, Cesc didn't know, something else. There wasn't longing there.

And Anita was uncomfortable, too, that was plain and easy to see. Her warning made Cesc's cheeks burn with discomfort, feeling suddenly very young.

He snapped out of his reverie by the sound of dice on the floor. They were supposed to keep going, that was right. Just to finish this godawful round.

Cesc's eyes dipped, and for a moment, his mind didn't fully comprehend what he saw.

That ******** bottle. That ******** *bottle* was *evil*. Laughing at him.

He blinked, the color washing out of his face, his heart twisting its cords and dropping gracelessly into his stomach. His palms went cold and his aura suddenly disappeared, the absence of air.

He looked up. His mind whirled, too distracted to put on a mask of good-humor. Zurine was pale and she looked at him, unsure, and Cesc didn't know -- he didn't know what he was meant to do, or how he was meant to salvage this moment, or how -- how dare -- how COULD he even bother trying with a goddamn audience of uncomfortable friends? He wanted to leave, he wanted them both to laugh awkwardly and call the game quits, but he was given nothing but silence.

The stag's jaw set. He found Zurine's eyes, gold on black. She didn't know either.

Cesc wet his lips. His palm went to the floor and he moved, slow, like he'd been in the cold. His eyes were half-lidded, his mouth a line, but he knew this motion. He knew it from weeks of practice, and then from haunting dreams, and then from disappointed, angry memory.

He put one hand on her cheek and tipped her gaze up. He drew forward and inclined his head, a tall man with a petite woman. He remembered this. The sweet chill that sang of being close. The scent of her, close to her skin. The ink-black of her eyes and how it separated close-up, finding pupils in the iris-black. The soft cool of her mouth on his.

He kissed her, softly, without lingering, and pulled away.

His eyes never completely closed. His gaze was lowered, looking at her mouth, and when he drew back, Cesc's eyes were quiet and very far away. He dropped his hand to his side.

PK

Her eyes had slowly closed -- but when he pulled away, they fluttered back open, gazing back up at him. It felt like her heart stopped, like everything stopped, and for a moment every inch she'd ever won back from the all-consuming misery that had eaten her summer was lost again. The next breath Zurine drew was a little raspy. Her eyes focused on him, gold and pink and so unbearably, wonderfully familiar -- and she finally managed to suck in a breath around the lump in her throat. Tears sprang to her eyes, and frost misted her lashes.

"I need -- I need to -- can someone show me where a restroom is?" She managed to say it, her voice strange, and a humorless smile on her lips, her eyes blinking a little more quickly than she would have liked. "Just for a moment...?"

Atma

Cesc specifically said nothing, his mouth flattened, his eyes averted. He scrubbed one hand through his hair, his antler flickering like a broken lightbulb and then settling again.

Snoof

Cruz was still dazed when Iorek spun the bottle again. The dice hitting the floor brought him out of it and the resulting gentleness of the kiss to his forehead made the croc sigh. He eased, managing to smile at the gargoyle though it was certainly understated compared to his usual merry cheer.

From there, it was Zurine's turn again. Anita sat back down and watched tensely while her raevan charge slipped back a bit. It was his turn to pet Tango and orient himself. The bottle chose its next sacrifice.

Everything imploded.

A frigid air seemed to fill the apartment then. Tears. Upset.

Cruz froze in confused horror.

His guardian hurried to Zurine's side, turning her away from the others and leading to the only bathroom they had as requested. "I think that's enough games for now," she said towards the rest of the group with her brows knit tight.

It was a sluggish, morose action but as Zurine was shepherded to the safety of the bathroom Cruz began picking up the dice and bottle.

They were done and his birthday wasn't fun anymore.

Neon

Ethiriel had remained silent through the turns of her companions. A lot of the happenings were lost on her, unable to see as most of their gaming was in silence now, but the upset in Zurine's voice was clear and she watched the silver trinket around her neck as Anita ushered her out. The tea frei let out a sympathetic sigh, despite her cluelessness. She would have to ask once things had calmed down.

PK

When she finally was in the bathroom and everyone wasn't looking at her, the tears clouding Zuri's eyes finally began sliding down her cheeks. Her distress had cooled her skin enough that even the salty drops were half-frozen when they dripped off her chin. She didn't make a sound, only collapsed into a small, bird-boned pile atop the toilet seat, her shoulders drawn up and her wings drawn around her in frosty self-protection.

Atma

Cesc drew in a breath and willed his aura back outward, looking up and passing his tongue over his teeth behind tightly sewn lips. He'd stay out here with the burning humiliation of having made a girl cry, yeah, sure.

On one hand, he felt like, Cruz had once thought he was a murderer, so this was a step up from that, at least, right? Now he was just the weirdo that showed up at 6 a.m. and said vague things and then wandered out again for months, came to his birthday, and made his friend cry. Excellent. Happy birthday, Cruz.

And Reks. Reks, obsessed with super heroism, was sure to love this.

At least Eth couldn't... see it.

This day was getting progressively more dicked, and he had no outlet other than to simmer in his own mortification of letting it play out in front of friends.

"Well," he said, his voice gravel, "Any -- anything else on the docket?"

Snoof

Anita hadn't quite closed the door yet. Poor thing... She grimaced and lowered her voice, only keeping the door ajar enough to peek in and keep the others from seeing.

"I'm sorry about this," she spoke in hushed tones to the poor bird, "do you need anything? Is there anything I can get for you?"

Back with the group, Cruz set the game items on the dining room table rather mechanically.

Everything was messed up, all because he wanted to play this game. He stared at the dice, blank but judgmental, and flipped the cup over them. They were hidden, now -- locked away and punished. Still, there was one more great offender here. The croc's eyes traveled to the plastic water bottle. It fit a bit noisily between Tango's jaws but the pup trotted happily away with it to another room. It would face its penance at the mercy of a hound.

The mistletoe frei turned back to his friends to survey the damage. All of them looked uncomfortable in someway; Eth appeared the least affected but there was still unease on her face.

Anything else...?

"Movie," Cruz announced robotically. He floated to the entertainment system and began sorting through their DVD library.

PK

"I-I'm -- I'll -- I'll be fine," Zuri managed to get out, gulping softly, her voice very quiet. She looked up at Anita, and managed a soggy, crumpled-up smile as she wiped at her face. "I just -- it's fine--" She swallowed down another sob, wiping at her eyes with her cardigan sleeve, unable to staunch the flow no matter how much she tried. "T-they'll -- I'll stop soon," she said to Anita, sounding and feeling quite lost.

Wings

Iorek just watched as the scene unfolded into the perfect Lifetime movie. There was kissing, tears, and certainly drama. It was different though because rather than sitting on the couch sharing some popcorn with Lillian he had front row seats to the whole show. Unfortunately this wasn't a cheesy drama. This was something between his good friend and someone he must have cared for deeply at some point(and judging by all this still does). He felt this was something none of them should of seen. As Cruz moved to pick up the pieces, Reks moved closer to Cesc. "You alright?" He questioned under his breath. Obviously he was worried about him. What a situation to be in. Jeez.

Honestly Reks had no clue what to say in a moment like this or how to really handle it. This wasn't something you could shove around and force to be better. It was all deep, emotional, and messy which Iorek knew he wasn't very good at. If someone needed something broken he was the guy to do it but fixed? So far he did not have the power to do anything like that.

Casting a quick glance around the room it was clear that everyone was out of sorts. Most definitely Iorek felt partly responsible. The atmosphere went downhill as soon as he locked lips with Cruz. If only that special frightening part of him hadn't stolen his control. Heck, it wasn't even like such a drastic kiss even brought him or Cruz closer. Instead it seemed to push them away...ugh. Poor Cruz. His fun birthday was unraveling.

There had to be some way to save it.

"Any movie is good with me. How about a comedy?" They could all use a good laugh and laughter did bring people together. Could be there best bet? "Or do you have a favorite movie you'd like to watch?"

Atma

"Yeah, I'm fine," said Cesc. The response wasn't meant to be as brusque as it came off, but Cesc wanted to deflect more than he wanted to discuss. His eyes were clear but still distant, his mouth quiet. He was a Sigel and he looked it, his face older, lined with a frustration that wasn't quiet unbending despite his efforts.

"A comedy, yeah -- that'd be great," he chimed in. He got up and moved from his place on the floor, taking the furthermost seat from the television, with only one spot beside him. As long as he wasn't sitting next to Zurine again, he was sure they could both manage to get through the evening.

Neon

"Anything is fine by me," Ethiriel chimed, though depending on the type of comedy it would go over her head.

Her eyes locked with the silver around Cesc's neck, her brows knit with worry at his tone. The last round had been done in complete silence so she was completely unaware of what happened, but the most she could do was keep silent and not stir the pot.

Snoof

"Comedy."

He repeated it with a total lack of enthusiasm. Suddenly, the croc felt very tired. Had he ever been this exhausted? It was strange; his eyes didn't burn for sleep, it wasn't like he wanted a nap, but his body was acting like he had gone without sleep for far too long and his mind was having difficulty keeping up.

It would be nice, perhaps, to not think for a while. A movie would do just that.

While he rooted through their DVD rack, Anita leaned against the bathroom door. "It's okay," she assured Zurine softly. "There's paper there, if you need it," Anita pointed to the roll of toilet paper currently on the dispenser.

With a frown, she leaned into the small bathroom and turned faucet on the sink. A noise buffer, in case she didn't want the others to hear. "I'll be right outside if you need anything, okay?"

Maybe The Lego Movie would be good enough for all of them. Cruz set it up while the others spoke behind him.

Atma

Cesc waited until the movie began to play. He sat uncomfortably, one arm over the couch back, his brow furrowed, distracted. This wasn't right. He couldn't just sit there while Anita was cleaning up after his -- their -- mess. He combed back his hair with both hands, his teeth together.

He hated this.

He rose, quietly excusing himself, and made his way to the bathroom. Seeing Anita outside the door, he gave the woman a tight-lipped smile.

"I'm really sorry," he murmured. He gestured to the bathroom. "Do you mind if I … talk to her?"

Neon

Ethiriel was thankful for the silver decorations everyone carried; being able to find where everyone was certainly made things easier. Which she couldn't see the couch or anything, she hesitantly floated toward the furniture with outstretched arms. Once her fingers met the couch, she slid her fingers along its length and found herself a seat next to Cesc, who then excused himself.

Snoof

Once Cruz was sure everything was settled with the movie -- volume at the right level, it wasn't looping the menu over and over, everyone seemed settled -- he slowly maneuvered himself onto the pulled out sofa bed in a space nearby Ethiriel. The croc watched Cesc move, then glanced over at Iorek. In his eyes was a silent plea for normalcy, for things to go back to how they were before the game, and with a hesitant smile Cruz wordlessly beckoned the gargoyle to join he and Ethiriel while the others worked themselves out.

At the stag's approach, Anita creased her brows. She shifted slightly, returned that forced smile with one of her own, and glanced back at the door.

"As long as she doesn't mind..." The woman uncrossed her arms and reached out to touch Cesc's shoulder, only to pause just before making contact. "You gonna be okay?"

Atma

The stag wanted badly to say that no, no, he was pretty damn tired of drama and upset and petty annoyances and, above all other things, romance. He wanted to say that he was feeling a lot like wallowing in self-pity like a hippo in mud. Or that he just wanted to go home now, thank you for your hospitality, he'd see you when the next calamity occurred.

The part of him less angry also wanted to assure her that he was a nice, normal guy; that he had a job and was steady and generally phenomenally emotionally stable, and that he was very and truly sorry for what she had to think of him. He did not tend to have good showings in front of this particular household.

But instead he nodded and shrugged and let out a brief and mirthless smile. "I'm alright, yes."

Then he turned toward the door and knocked softly, calling in a low, quiet tone through the crack:

"Surine? May I come in?"

PK

Zurine was quiet for a moment, frozen. It occurred to her that she could have told him no, that he couldn't come in, that she couldn't possibly face this right now, she wasn't strong enough. The thought of being seen like this hurt. But she remembered, despite herself, what Zeke had said. If she didn't face it now, when could she?

"Yes," she said, trying not to look quite so miserable, and failing. "Of course." She took a bit of tissue and tried to mop icy tears from her cheeks.

[Snoofington]

Snoof

Cesc's answer was passable, for now -- Anita couldn't really blame him for not wanting to talk about it, least of all with a human he barely knew. When Zurine gave confirmation, she moved to the side and let the stag in.

While they had their little chat, Cruz's guardian then took to checking on the croc who still seemed a bit dazed. A movie was a good idea, for most of them, something to take their minds off of it and calm down. Still, one of their friends here didn't quite have the same luxury and, once she was sure Cruz and Iorek were alright, Anita checked with Ethiriel to make sure she was comfortable and offered some of the silver on the dining room table or a cup of hot water.

Picking out a comedy was a good idea as well. Though it was slow to start, Cruz found himself mostly back to normal about forty-five minutes in. Sitting between Iorek and Ethiriel was nice.

By the time the movie was over, a good hour and a half later, the atmosphere settled. While it wasn't quite back to the carefree air they all carried when first arriving, it was a far sight better than the end of the game. The party had already been going for nearly three hours and everyone was pretty tired.

"Should we do presents?" Anita asked while shutting down the entertainment center.

Atma

About a fourth of the way through the movie, Cesc returned to the party and silently made his way back over to the couch. He took his previous seat just beside Ethiriel and settled in, ready to empty his mind and watch the movie.

By the end, his genial mood had mostly returned. He smiled when Anita suggested presents. Good! Presents were harmless.

PK

Zuri was a little behind him, but when she returned, she seemed less stiff, more ready to be natural and at home with her friends. She was a little embarrassed at the scene she had made, but she nestled down on the couch as well. She was ready to just go with whatever else the day brought, because hell, it couldn't be harder than what she had just faced, could it? She was even excited to see Cruz open his gifts, especially the one from her.

Wings

Iorek loved the Lego Movie and even if things were a little uncomfortable with everyone else he was pretty content to sit beside Cruz and watch the flick. Sure they had an awkward kiss but it was better than what Cesc and Zuri had gone through. Still...even if he had let a part of him go out of control, he was hoping to get more of a positive reaction out of Cruz. It had been there first deep kiss after all...but he could understand not everyone wants it done in front of all their friends. He was just being selfish. Thankfully with time everything seemed to fall back into place like it had been before the whole kissing game. Good. They were all friends here and friends were supposed to work things out.

"Presents would be great! It's about time you got your treats, Cruz." He smiled and got up from his spot. "Anita, I can help bring them in so no one has to get up if you want. Nobody has anything fragile, right?"

Neon

As expected, a lot of the humor was lost on Ethiriel but she sat and enjoyed the time with her friends as much as possible. She could only assume that the others were having a good time.

"That sounds wonderful," she said, dipping her head into a small bow toward no one, but rather as confirmation.

Snoof

The idea of gifts had nearly been forgotten by Cruz. He knew very well that they were apart of every birthday, even his past ones, but the tone of this one had been quite different that the very concept slipped his mind.

Did he really deserve gifts after inadvertently making everyone uncomfortable?

Cruz smiled hesitantly, "Yes, please."

"Oh, thanks!" Anita breathed easier at Iorek's offer. After the movie, everyone really seemed to be in better spirits -- or at least evened out. "They're just right here, so--" she gestured to the kitchen counter everyone was instructed to place their gifts on.

"You can pick first," she gestured for Iorek since he so graciously offered his assistance.

Atma

Cesc, while perhaps not feeling his bubbliest, was at least no longer the statue-stiff picture of discomfort that he was before. He smiled and cleared his throat gently as the presents were placed.

"Mine are actually from Shep and Vivi, too-- I, ah, made the cupcakes, and-- well, you'll see."

Inside the bag was a Crocodile Dundee hat, faux leather and festooned with a garland of fake sharp teeth, the tag attached saying: "cheers, mate!" with Shepard's signature. The bag also contained a small bag of silk ribbons, of varying colors and widths, perfect for tying back one's hair. The little bag had a red kiss mark upon it, along with a single letter, V. And then there was a small floppy small doll of a crocodile, the tag of which only had a black paw mark.

And lastly, a small candycane plush that squeaked when squeezed, saying: 'for Tango!' on its tag.

There was also a card in a red envelope, with four inscriptions: one simply saying 'happy birthday,' from Shepard, one long one in heavy script with multiple French endearments and phrases like: 'sweetest and luckiest of mistletoes', and 'sugar sweet lipped crocodile!' with Vivi's signature, and then a shaky (if similar) scrawl that said 'mowwww' with a paw print.

And then Cesc's, too: 'I hope this year is a happy one for you, and that it gives you only health and joy. Thanks for being a good friend. Happy birthday.'

Neon

Ethiriel honestly felt a little sheepish over her 'own' gift, having to rely on Henry for such a thing.

In a small, silver-wrapped box (also Henry's doing), rested a card signed by Henry offering well wishes and happy days, which was accompanied by a small, stuffed german shepard. It might not have been the biggest plush, but it was big enough for someone without a lower body to snuggle with.

Snoof

"Oh," both guardian and croc exclaimed curiously as Cesc's gift was brought over.

Cruz didn't take long admiring the package before digging his claws inside. The reference was lost on him but Anita laughed when he immediately donned the cap and continued digging further with wide eyes and a wider grin. The selection of ribbons was met with an ever-so-pleased rumble and he held them out to show Reks and Zurine.

Standing beside her, Anita mentioned to Ethiriel, "he got a hat and some ribbons--" Cruz let rip a wondrous hum, "--and a toy."

At the squeak from the candy cane, any sound of crunching plastic from the other room stopped instantly. Cruz stayed still with his lips pursed as Tango all but leaned out of the doorway, then trotted over with his head and ears held high.
He soon strut around the apartment with his new toy, squeaking it the whole way.

Cruz read aloud what he could of the card, deciphering all of the French into meaningless gibberish. He held the note close to his chest, hat flopping over slightly.

"Thank you, Cesc! Tell them 'thank you'--"

"You can call them or visit to tell them yourself. Or we can do a thank you card," Anita suggested with a short laugh.

"Card!"

And then it was on to Ethiriel's. The card was read first this time, aloud again despite Cruz's minor stumbling. He was sure to thank the tea frei before moving further, this time, and another 'thank you' card would be in order for Henry.

Anita gasped playfully when the dog plush was unveiled and Cruz pulled it into a hug with the crocodile and his new pack of ribbons.

"So many cute things, thank you guys."

"I love them, thank you," Cruz chimed.

PK

After looking at everyone else's gift, Zurine couldn't help feeling a little bit sheepish over her own, but she still was a little excited to see what Cruz would think. Regardless, she had put a lot of work into it in the past few days, though Phiel's fingers were the ones that had been poked within an inch of their lives. Inside the small box, which was tied prettily, was a tiny hand-sewn crocodile doll, no bigger than the length of Cruz's hand from heel to longest fingertip. It was stuffed with rice, and it had some of Cruz's features, like his eyecolor and a cheerful little thread grin. It had a note on how to warm it in the microwave to use it for cuddly heat.

Wings

Iorek was last and he smiled bright at the opportunity to hand over his gift bag. It felt as though he had been waiting a month! The whole awkward kiss was just a faint memory now as he gave Cruz his present. As Reks sat back he admired the present's glittery wrapping. If it hadn't been for the sparkly material he probably would of left the birthday goodies at home up against the front door.

But now that the bag had left his grasp, Reks was left to look over all the other goodies Cruz had been gifted. Each one was so sweet and caring and thoughtful. Hopefully his was well-liked too if not....mesh he would of failed the role of boyfriend for sure.

The glittery bag was full of gifts and tissue paper. Reks wasn't sure how much was needed to give the surprise factor so he just used a whole bunch. There was a selection of comic books Iorek had been saving that he thought Cruz might like to read. He had attempted to create this own book featuring the two of them and got as far as sketching out the drawings to go with the script until he realized his large hands made it very difficult to draw anything other than squiggly figures. A small jar of green sea glass Reks had been collecting off the beach that reminded him of Cruz's pretty shades of green. There was even a long scarf folded neatly underneath with happy little cartoon crocs printed all over it (for when Cruz wanted to be warm and Reks wasn't around to hold him tight). There was even a rock that was painted all sorts of colors and a big goofy smile to go with the silly googly eyes. "I thought you might like another pet! This one is really easy to take care of." Reks chimed in when Cruz unwrapped it. It even jingled thanks to the bell Reks hot glued to it.

Last but not least a stack of care-for-you cards Iorek had customed made all on his own. They were bigger than average because Iorek had crafted them using his own big chunky fingers. The collection of hand-made cards surely would of looked better if he had gone to his guardians for help and to use their nimble fingers but if they read what he had written...oh it would of been way too embarrassing. On each card were little things he would do for Cruz when the raevan cashed them in. Just cute little couple-y things like hugs, kisses, dates, and other sorts of goodies. Iorek had seen it on a tv show and after listening to Lil gush at the idea he copied it in hopes of Cruz loving every moment.

Snoof

The next gift was met with equal fanfare and enthusiasm. Cruz immediately took note of the similarities between himself and the sewn croc and held it aloft with a wide smile to everyone in the room (even Tango, who sniffed it and promptly had to be told it wasn't his). The instructions about heated cuddling were so wonderful in light of the cold lonely Winter months that were on the way.

"Thank you, Zuri," he purred with abandon.

Cruz tucked his new companion into the collar of his shirt, its little arms and head dangling overtop as he moved on to Iorek's gift.

What wrappings! Anita chuckled as Cruz, at first, seemed unsure of where to open the present. All of the tissue paper soon found itself on the floor, plucked and tossed skyward indiscriminately. Goodness, there was a lot. The book was retrieved first and it was only after Anita reminded him that there was more in the bag several minutes after Cruz began thumbing through it did he put it aside. Bottled trinkets, a scarf, there was so much!

"Another pet," Cruz repeated as he held the rock aloft. The scarf had since been draped over his head and around his shoulders, wrapping Zuri's small croc up along with it. He grinned and thanked Reks, as he did for every individual part of every gift given.

Yet still there was more! His guardian's eyes were practically bugging as she laughed. Iorek had such creativity and resources at his disposal, it was impressive.

Cruz read a few of the cards off slowly to himself, mumbling their words under his breath. There were quite a lot!

Before he got too involved with them, Anita took the reigns once again; she gave a soft pat to Ethiriel's shoulder and smiled to the other guests.

"Thanks so much, guys, this is incredible!"

Cruz lifted his head and tucked the cards neatly together in a pile on the table, just beside the comic book. He had already said thank you so much but it was true, this was incredible. For each of them, in the order their gifts were given, Cruz opened his arms and offered a firm, affectionate hug and even more thanks.

Despite the rough patch, the birthday really bounced back. Everyone seemed better now and there was nothing major left on the itinerary so all they had to do was enjoy each other's company until it was time for them to go. Cruz hoped, and stated so, that they would come back again, party or no -- and also that they wouldn't have to play the kissing game next time.