1498/Warren's House Party

Warren's House Party
Date of Scene:	04 May 2020
Location:	Warren's Penthouse
Synopsis:	Warren invites friends over for a party to help ease minds off of the crazy things going on in the world as of late.
Cast of Characters:	Warren Worthington, Alison Blaire, Bobby Drake, Paige Guthrie, Julio Richter, Scott Summers, Piotr Rasputin, Roberto da Costa, Stephanie Brown, Illyana Rasputina, Tabitha Smith, Samuel Guthrie, Rahne Sinclair

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Warren Worthington has posed:
Warren has only gone a little crazy for the party he is throwing friends and acquaintances. There's a fully stocked bar that has a ton of alcohol as well as a few non-alcoholic options for those not looking to drink. It's staffed by a bartender who seems to know exactly what he's about. Several large tables have also been set up along one side of the massive living room and it has been stacked with various food items, of both the healthy and unhealthy varieties.

The host is wearing a pair of jeans, and a t-shirt that has a tent on it with the words 'I am an Internet Explorer' written around it. He looks to his gathered friends and smiles, "Hey hey, welcome everyone. Glad you all could make it. Another year in the books at Xavier's and no one's managed to blow up Hank's lab yet again." He grins. "Anyway, just wanted to get everyone out of the school for a night to have a good time. So there's food, there's stuff to drink, and there's going to be some music. Feel free to walk around and mingle, and there's plenty of room for folks to chill out on the terrace too."

He rubs his hands together and smiles, "Enough of me running my mouth though, have fun everyone! The night is young and it's yours." He points to a nearby DJ who gets the music started for the evening.

Alison Blaire has posed:
From up on the upper level, Alison leans on the railing and looks down as people come in. She's dressed as casually as Warren. Soft grey leggings, and a black sweat shirt with a still of Cinderella clutching her hands to her face looking over it all. She waves from her look out and calls down "If Warren hovers or fusses make him do a shot!"

Bobby Drake has posed:
Bobby Drake grins as he wanders over to Warren and says, "Nice of you to throw this, man. How are things going?" He has already managed to find himself a drink, which he holds in one hand, the glass frosting around his fingertips. He's dressed in a comfortable pair of jeans with a pair of grey suede oxfords on and a pale grey henley, looking fairly casual and relaxed. He glances up and sees Alison and gives her a wave, "Heya Ali."

Paige Guthrie has posed:
Going to a fancy party (well, fancy for Paige) isn't something that Paige would normally do, but her classmates urged her to put down the books and go out and have some fun for once. So she put on a nice blue dress, borrowed the keys to Sam's Subaru, and grabbed Julio to go with her because this is something that she's way too nervous about doing by herself. Now that she's here, she finds out that she's a bit overdressed, so she ends up in a corner of the room, terminally embarrassed.

Julio Richter has posed:
Julio isn't generally what you'd call a fashion template. His personal wardrobe consists of the clothes he had on when he showed up at Xavier's and the standard-issue school P.E. uniforms, but for this occasion, he managed to beg and borrow enough from classmates that he'd be presentable. He is, if anything, a bit overdressed in a pale green button-up, off-the-rack blazer, and khakis. He doesn't know what you wear to hang out with rich people! So he lurks in the shame corner with Paige, looking redder than usual and judging the bartender's technique from afar. "At least it wasn't just one of us," he mutters to Paige.

Alison Blaire has posed:
"Hey Bobby! Nice to see ya!" Alison calls down from her perch on the upper level. Pushing off from the railing she trots down to ply a drink from Warren's bar tender. "What a nice change from drinking all your wine, Fluff'n'Stuff." She smiles at Warren warmly and gives the others a cheerful grin. "Really, make yourself at home. He actually cleaned for this."

Scott Summers has posed:
Scott is also somewhat overdressed, despite Warren saying it was casual. Because he always feels he needs to set some standards. He is a dork, but you already knew that.

So, he came with nice three piece charcoal suit, which actually fits quite well on him (not like five years ago, when he was kind of scrawny). He nods and waves to everyone here in his way to the bar, pausing only for formal greetings when he meets someone he doesn't know. Like Julio or Steph.

Piotr Rasputin has posed:
Piotr had been invited to the party, and his instinct to be casual seems to have paid off. He is in a t-shirt and jeans, and in a surprisingly good mood, securing a Dew for himself for the time being and raising it in salutation, to the host, "Thanks again for hosting, Warren!"

Roberto da Costa has posed:
Roberto da Costa is always a fashion plate, today's outfit is a grey sports coat over, a loose v-necked shirt, skinny jeans and a pair of white numbered Jordans. The recent Xavier's grad, smiles as Warren gives his introductory speech. Then he turns to the his date, one Stephanie Brown, "And that's Warren Worthington," he explains. "Want to grab a drink and meet the rest of the folks from my school." He seems totally at ease with the fact Dazzler is there and that Warren's walking around with a big set of wings. But then Stephanie's met Hank and after that celebs and winged billionaires was easy to take.

Warren Worthington has posed:
"Hey, I never hover or make fusses." Warren says to Ali, before looking towards Bobby and smiling. "Hey Bobby, things are going well. How're you holding up with all of the craziness that seems to pop up every other day?" His eyes move past Bobby towards Paige and Julio and he gives them a thumbs up. "Hey you two, thanks for coming. Please have some food or go get a drink. There's all sorts of soda or juice if that's more your thing. Tea or coffee too if you want something hot." Then he gives Piotr a quick grin. "I made sure to have some honeycakes made up for you and Illyana, Piotr. There's also plenty of vodka ready too. Hope you have fun my friend."

Julio Richter has posed:
Julio smiles over at Warren, then ducks his head and looks to Paige with a stricken expression. "So much for not getting noticed over here," he mutters. "Gracias, sir!" he calls out in a louder voice, waving at Warren.

The Latino gives Alison a very weird look when she joins the party. "Wait a minute," he says, lifting one finger and staring at her like she's a ghost. "You were... /definitely/ a scarecrow. Your head fell off and everything." He realizes he's talking crazy talk, and explains, "I saved you from some dragons in the Danger Room. I didn't think you were an actual person."

Paige Guthrie has posed:
"Well, at lest we aren't the only students," Paige says to Julio. When Warren turns to them she gives him a weak thumbs-up back and nods. "I could use a soda, sure." She turns to Julio, "Do you want something?"

Stephanie Brown has posed:
Stephanie walks in with Roberto, wearing a blue sundress and wearing a gold necklace from which hangs a small golden compass with diamonds on the cardinal directions. Then penthouse is quite the sight but then the people are soon drawing Stephanie's attention away.

"Wow," she tells him. "So... -that- Warren then," she says, and knowing she shouldn't be surprised at the circles that Roberto moves in. "So he's one of the alum- Oh my god is that Dazzler over there?" the blonde asks, not even getting the first comment out before the sight of someone else takes her attention. "Is she performing?" Stephanie asks. "If so, you win. Your graduation parties are WAY better than ours," she tells Roberto with a grin and laughing shake of her head.

Illyana Rasputina has posed:
Nothing like showing up comfortably for a swanky party looking like the Dasher or Grubhub driver. So there's that. What do you bring to a man who has almost every drink under the sun except something horrendously out of budget or illegal? It's a matter that keeps Illyana being fashionably late. Or possibly exquisitely early considering she lives by a highly different timeline than the average person. Party regalia and party outfits are ultimately the bailiwick of her companion, the passenger carried on the back of a motorcycle rather than a portal. She leaves a helmet mounted on the back of the bike, tossing off the heavier webbed jacket intended to protect against road rash. Then it's inside, and time to give Tabby one last look. "We could have brought the Hope Diamond," she deadpans in that flat Russian manner.

Hard to say if those pants are leather or just superdark, but the sliced tanktop is an interesting, if simple, addition. Her eyes narrow a little in speculative thought that Tabitha might recognize as her 'paying attention elsewhere' face. But giving a casual smirk, she heads inside. Might be the last chance to turn back.

Tabitha Smith has posed:
Party regalia and outfits are so Tabby's thing, and she's probably spent the better part of the day trying to decide just what to wear to this particular party. In the end she's opted for ripped up blue jeans, knee-high suede boots and a white wifebeater and no attention paid to the potential for roadrash on bare arms. Not her. If they die, they die. Fashion is everything.

"The Hope Diamond is so last year. You should have gotten him..." Gotten him what? Tabby has no idea, and she shrugs instead of finishes.

Alison Blaire has posed:
Blinking at Julio, Ali tilts her head. "Super real, for sure not a scarecrow. But umm, thanks for saving me from dragons?" She says with a bit of laughter in her voice. Sipping on her drink, the singer bumps Warren lightly. "You do too. It's endearing. And the honey cakes? Might be a new fav." She notes looking Piotr and lifting her glass in a small cheers.

Bobby Drake has posed:
"Never?" Bobby asks Warren with a grin before shrugging his shoulders, "I'm alright. Back from Genosha for the time being. Graduated. Got the degree. Now I'm off for the summer until I start teaching in the fall. So.. all in all, doing alright." He grins, lifting his drink and taking a sip. "A party is just the thing." There's a glance in the direction of the food. "Honey cakes?" He's never had one, and now he's curious.

Julio Richter has posed:
"Blame her," Julio tells Alison, pointing at Illyana as she makes her entrance. "She's the one who ran the session." There's no indication that he has any idea he's speaking to what should be a recognizable face. He's just that not into pop music, it seems.

Julio raises his eyebrows at Paige's question, but nods and follows her over to the bartender. After she has ordered, he asks for a ginger ale, then once he has it, requests a root beer "for a friend." When the bartender turns to retrieve the bottle from the rack behind him, Julio smoothly snags a bottle of whiskey from the bartop, four-counts it into the drink he already has, and returns it before the bartender has even popped the top on the IBC. He doesn't draw any attention to the move, hoping it was executed quickly and calmly enough that nobody noticed. The best cover is just acting natural, right?

He accepts the root beer in his left hand, then turns to circulate some more with Paige. "So, who should we share our shame with first?" he asks her.

Roberto da Costa has posed:
Roberto grins at Stephanie when she spots Dazzler. "Yep, she's a friend of the school and more than a friend of Warren's," he says adding a wink at the end of that last sentiment.

"We can say hello if you want," he says. "The big guy with them is Piotr, my Russian teacher," he explains, before spotting Illyana entering. He waves, "And that's his sister, Illyana, and Tabby they're from my class."

He waves to the two women from across the party to come join him and Steph.

Stephanie Brown has posed:
Stephanie's eyes go back to Dazzler, and then over to Warren as Roberto fills her in on their situation. "Ah, so not like a hired gig. I will avoid spazzing out like a fan then. I mean, I would have anyway to avoid embarrassing you," Stephanie says quietly, leaning closer to Roberto so the words don't carry too far. It's followed up by a little grin and a self-deprecating eye roll. "Ok, I would have totally spazzed. But, I've seen what it's like for the Wayne's dealing with people and... yeah, don't want to subject her to that. But, saying hi would be great if there's a chance."

Stephanie looks over to the others as Roberto points them out. She flashes a friendly smile to Illyana, Tabitha and Piotr and Roberto waves, should their eyes drift over to her as well. "So nice to get meet some more of your friends," She tells Roberto. "So which ones are Sam and his girlfriend?" she asks as she eyes the crowd for the one she's heard the most stories about.

Warren Worthington has posed:
Warren gets bumped by Ali, grunts, then reaches over and ruffles some of her hair a little. "Yeah, you definitely should give the honeycakes a try Bobby, they're pretty addicting though so fair warning!" He grins and nods, "Congrats on graduating though, and on becoming a teacher. Going to be a big adjustment for the next year, but at least you have the next few months to kind of sit back and take it all in." He reaches over and picks up a drink and jingles it in his hand, letting the ice clink in the glass before taking a sip, then gives Illy and Tabby waves as they arrive.

Illyana Rasputina has posed:
Blonde hair bunched up in conical buns still leaves a lot falling down her back, hair knocked away with an insouciant care. It's the closest she opts to get to a party hat or other cheesy tinsel regalia. Nothing respectable about her appearance, thumb hooked in the loop of her slick black pants, carrying no cares or weight on her shoulders. "I should have. Not too late," she muses. A bit of a raised arc to her eyebrows leaves an unspoken question hidden in between. She slinks her way in, casting a measured smirk to Julio when he talks of blame and pop music troubles. Thar be dragons?

No time yet for her to go looking for something at the bar for a drink. She slinks idly in that general direction. "Nice place," she tells Warren with that usual deadpan insouciance. "Looks good, da? Berto." Fingers wiggle in his way, and she includes Stephanie, nodding for Tabitha to reorient as wanted. The younger ones go in pairs so often, no doubt.

Paige Guthrie has posed:
Paige wanders over to the bar with Julio to get herself a coke, and watches in horror as he proceeds to spike his drink. "Julio!" she whispers admonishingly, loud enough for him to hear, but soft enough to not draw the attention to anybody. Her eyes dart around, sure that /somebody/ must have seen what he did, but when nobody does or say anything she relaxes a bit.

"I don't know," Paige replies, doing another scan of the room. "What about her?" She gestures over towards Tabitha. "I've seen her at school but I've never introduced myself." With that she wanders over to the fashionable teen, and attempts to start a conversation. "Um. Howdy, there."

Scott Summers has posed:
The best cover is just acting natural... and do it a safe distance from Scott Summers. Julio forgot the second part. Or rather, no one warned him about Scott? "Ah, Mr. Ritcher," the man with the red glasses offers Julio his hand.

But Julio has both hands full. No problem, Scott relieves him from the alcoholic one with remarkable dexterity. "Good to meet you at last. I am Scott Summers, your ethics professor for tonight. Hope it is just for tonight, and just once. Have a nice evening." He looms over Julio, the smile is not very sincere.

Alison Blaire has posed:
"You absolute heathen!" Ali gasps and bats at Warren's hand before working on smoothing out her blond locks. She scrunches her nose. Looking to Bobby she makes an exasperated sigh. "Why is he like this?" She asks and steps away from Warren as she works on downing her glass.

Tabitha Smith has posed:
"Too late now." Tabby answers that unspoken question, because really they are already here and there's not any reason to turn back and go steal the Hope Diamond.

It'd be wasted on Feathers, anyways. There is a wave in the direction of Berto and Stephanie, kisses blown in Warren's direction before she's suddenly faced with a Paige, and there is a blink, "Hi there."

Julio Richter has posed:
Julio responds to Paige's admonishment with a long shrug and an only slightly guilty smile. He's about to say something in response when he nearly bumps into Scott and is instantly relieved of his high-proof burden. His expression crashes into annoyance. "Professor," he responds, pronouncing the honorific with less than the usual respect. "I've been a legal drinker for more than a year in Mexico. I didn't think it would be any harm. This is a private party, isn't it?" He speaks carefully, dodging around outright insolence, but it's obvious he finds the limitation irritating. It's also obvious that he'd like to follow Paige to do more socializing, though, so it's unlikely he's going to push this too much further.

Piotr Rasputin has posed:
Piotr nods to Warren, "Then I thank you again, hard to find a good honeycake anymore around here. At least as good as they make it back home." He takes a drink and nods to the new arrivals and sees Illy and waves, "Little sister!" He grins and then makes a note to wave and smile at the others, though the fact students are here registers and he gets a moment of brief mortification, then takes a breath, everybody was behaving, so it could be far, far worse.

Samuel Guthrie has posed:
Sam Guthrie had to run an errand to pick something up, and so he will show up a bit late. He dropped the others off went and did what needed and now, he is making hsi way to the gathering.

Bobby Drake has posed:
Bobby Drake grins and says, "I've already been teaching part time for the past year so, not too big of an adjustment. It'll be fun." For some people's definition of fun, perhaps. He laughs at Alison and gives a shrug of his shoulders in answer to her question. "You're the one dating him!" He flashes a grin then and says, "I'm going to go grab one of those cakes." And with that, he wanders on off to go find where the honeycakes are hiding over on the food table, reaching out to snag one and put it on a little napkin.

Roberto da Costa has posed:
"Yeah, definitely not a paid act tonight," Roberto says about Dazzler being there. "And I'm sure she'd be okay with a minimal amount of spazzing," he adds with a smile to Steph before he waves to Illy. "Yeah, not bad, reminds me of my family's place in Rio," he says of the penthouse before, turning to introduce Stephanie. "Illy this is my girlfriend Stephanie Brown. Steph, this is Illyana, one of my friends from school," he says.

As for Sam, Berto takes a look but hasn't seen his best bud enter yet.

Paige Guthrie has posed:
"So, um..." Paige says, desperately trying to think of something social to say, when she realizes that her wingman has been waylaid by a teacher, so now she has to fly solo. "Hi." she says again. "I've seen you at school, but I don't think we've ever really been introduced. I'm Paige Guthrie," she says, extending a hand.

Warren Worthington has posed:
"Oh hey, thanks Illy. By the way, I told Piotr but there is honeycake. I made sure to get some especially for the two of you." Warren gives her a little grin before turning towards Ali and Bobby. "Me? A heathen? Why I never. I am simply a man who loves and adores the most wonderful woman in the whole world." He puts one hand over his heart and gives Ali a soft smile, holding that pose for just a few moments before catching sight of Tabby's gesture. Then he waves back at her and says, "Hey Tabby, hope you're well! Glad that you could make it!"

Rahne Sinclair has posed:
    'You should go', they said. 'Get you out of your shell' they added. And, somehow, Rahne actually agreed to come. Which...is a testament to the power of friendship. Or peer pressure. You decide which.

    Still, the scottish redhead is here....and actually dressed appropriately. Which means, for Rahne, that she has shoes on...and a comfortable shirt/skirt combo. So...at least she looks comfortable outwardly. Inwardly....well...that's another story. But she is trying!

    And right now, trying looks an awful lot like standing in relatively one spot and trying not to be too impressed by the decor. And...failing in the unimpressed department.

Illyana Rasputina has posed:
Upnods instead of finger wiggles are Illyana's modus operandi. She gives greetings by way of nod and the occasional evocation, but being laconic sort of fits her bill. So many people around, and it's all too apparent she belongs to the Russian Federation with its various quirks. The stalking slink of her movements is something else, syncopated to the music and the dusty revelry of dark conversation. Quiet, she smirks when Scott pulls that alcoholic beverage from Julio's hand. Ouch, burn. "Next time, red potion," she recommends in a definitely accented voice.

Those pale Arctic blue eyes narrow slightly in amused speculation that fades back slightly as Paige falls into their orbit. A nod comes after the definite flickering of scrutiny, then watching everyone else flooding back and forth through the place. "Never too late. Curses are forever." Or diamonds. Wrong joke, but she almost has it. Piotr is impossible to miss, the best Rasputin getting that lift of her head. A sharp little wave his way. No smiles, because smiles are for /fools!/ But she is waving, see? "Da. Stephanie." The name has its harsh Russian edges. "Good to meet you. He has not thoroughly corrupted you yet, has he?" Off to the bar? Never.

Stephanie Brown has posed:
There's a definite warmth to Stephanie as she is introduced to Illyana and greets her back. "Hello Illyana. Love that top," she says of the slashed tank top. Stephanie casts a blue-eyed gaze over towards Roberto and gives the Brazilian a soft smile after the question from Illyana. "Not thoroughly, mind you, but there's plenty of time still," Stephanie replies.

She glances from the people back around the penthouse again. "Wow, this place is pretty amazing. Great spot to celebrate graduating. Do you have any plans for what's next, Illyana? Going on to college somewhere or lining up a job?" she asks.

Stephanie's eyes roam the crowd in the moments they can while still keeping attention on those she's talking to.

Alison Blaire has posed:
Looking at Warren, Ali grins crookedly and rolls her eyes. "You just like sparkly lights." She counters but blows him a kiss before seeing about securing herself another drink. "How about wine this time, probably didn't need to pregame." She murmurs and looks over to Scott giving him a wave. "Hey there! Not often you out dress Warren I bet. Looks slick." She tells him cheerfully.

Bobby Drake has posed:
"Aw, aren't you adorable," Bobby says to Warren with a laugh as he comes back with his honeycake, taking a bite out of it carefully while balancing it on the napkin and holding his drink in his other hand. He catches sight of Scott talking to Julio and one brow raises just a little bit as he gauges the temperature of that conversation from afar before taking a sip from his drink.

Scott Summers has posed:
"A number of things that are harmless are not quite acceptable," offers Scott, somewhat surprised Julio would actually push it. It is true it is technically legal for Julio to drink. It is only illegal to sell alcohol to him, and he did not pay for it.

So, he lowers his voice, "and in your case I am quite sure any kind of mind-affecting substance, even a mild one, is a bad idea. Please, don't do it for now."

He turns to Paige. "You must be Sam's sister," he smiles for real now. "Good to meet you."

Samuel Guthrie has posed:
Sam Guthrie looks around and sees Julio has already gotten Scott's attention he will shakes his head a bit, but walks over towards Berto, and the crowd there. He looks over to Rahne and motions her on over as well as he heads to see if Berto's friend is who he suspects.

Roberto da Costa has posed:
Roberto grins as Illy suggests might have corrupted Steph. "As if I would do anything like that," he assures them both. "Anyhow, we're doing the rounds, what have you been up to lately?" Roberto had fallen down the study hole before graduation and then of course having a girlfriend in Gotham hadn't helped him keep up a presence around the school.

He spots Sam then and waves his friend over. "Hey Sam, you've got to meet Steph, she's been dying to meet you."

Julio Richter has posed:
Julio instinctively gives a quick roll of his eyes at the start of Scott's answer, but takes a deep breath and nods as the teacher finishes. "I guess you're right," he acknowledges, but he hasn't quite reached an age where he can admit the wisdom in what Scott is saying without a put-upon tone creeping into his voice. He takes a grudging sip from his extremely virgin root beer and lets it go.

Standing alongside Paige, he refocuses on Tabitha, giving her a wave and telling her, "So, scarecrow lady is here. I told her I saved her from imaginary dragons in a very cool and smooth way. It was not at all awkward or embarrassing." He dips a finger into the collar of his borrowed shirt and gives it a tug. "How's your night going?"

Tabitha Smith has posed:
"Hi. I'm Tabby, your brother's ex-girlfriend." Tabby replies, reaching out to take Paige's offered hand and giving it a shake. "If you.."

There was probably going to be something more helpful there, but then Scott turns up and turns his focus on Paige, so she just mouths 'good luck' before glancing around for a potential escape.

Rahne Sinclair has posed:
    There might have been a missed connection between Sam and Rahne. Rahne did not see the motion over. She was too busy measuring the penthouse mentally and picturing the village she grew up in practically fitting inside. Hey...it's possible.

    In any case, that solitary spot isn't so solitary anymore, as Rahne starts to wander on her own accord. Still, not quite social yet....but she's working on it. Just a little longer.

Illyana Rasputina has posed:
Illyana's wandering gaze evokes a kind of reckless vigilance, a sense of not quite settling in. Every conversation gets its due, but likewise is she wrapped up in that waiting for a missile to strike, a monster to jump out of the dark. Sociable paranoia, masked behind that measured look at Stephanie's compliment. Not rude; blunt. "Thank you." However, she has manners and Piotr need not wade over to rescue her from herself. The question of futures warrants something of a pause. "A Masters within the year, maybe. After that..." A shrug leaves it open. "Endless possibilities. How to choose just one?" Artful answers from a teenager, possibly a bit scary. She has a moment of standing on tiptoe, giving a dainty bounce of her heels to stand out to the Scottish redhead. If Rahne gets close enough to be snagged, she can come stand in the thick of it with Illyana and Tabby. And half the other younger cohort of New Mutants. "Honeycake? We need some of that."

Maybe this is her signal to go and hunt down the Scotswoman. With a light nudge to Tabitha indicating her departure, if briefly, she sashays over to capture Rahne. Nope, not escaping. The two of them can run for it together. Once close, she tells the redhead, "You have the words. They talk a lot. Help." She doesn't need help. Help is probably a useful excuse.

Warren Worthington has posed:
"I do try and be sometimes." Warren says to Bobby with a grin, and then to Ali, "And while I do like them, I like you more, Sparkles. Anyway, I should go grab some food and mingle a little." He nods to Bobby, then makes his way towards the tables with the food on them, taking a few moments to get two different pieces of cake onto a plate before turning and surveying the room. He just noticed Sam and Berto, and he gives Sam a nod, but makes his way over towards Berto and his guest and others, giving them all nods as he approaches. "Hey hey, good to see you here Berto. I see you brought a guest." He flashes Stephanie a smile. "Hello, I'm Warren Worthington, glad you could come hang out with all of us."

Scott Summers has posed:
"Alison, hello," greets Scott. Then he glances at Warren. "Hmmhrm," he has no comments about the outfit. He does consider telling Warren about Julio's attempt to get alcohol, but Warren will either not care, or care, and do something. None of those would be good or useful. Instead he makes a vague gesture that could mean 'all is okay' and looks back at Alison. "Thanks for inviting us. We need more social gatherings out of the school. Things there have been tense lately."

Stephanie Brown has posed:
Stephanie looks over and spots Sam as Roberto point him out and he comes over to join them. "So I finally get to meet the infamous 'Sam'," Stephanie tells the Kentuckian while giving a warm grin. "I've heard a lot about you. I'd say all good but you probably know Roberto too well to believe that," she says in a kidding tone. "Seriously though, really great to get to meet you," she says to him.

Stephanie glances up to see Warren approaching the group. The high school senior - strike that, high school graduate! - gives Warren a friendly smile of greeting. "Hello Mr. Worthington. Stephanie Brown," she offers. "You have a really beautiful place here. Thank you for hosting it. I know Roberto's school is pretty private, so getting to come and meet all of his friends here is something I've been looking forward to," she tells him.

Alison Blaire has posed:
"Oh, this is all Warren's shin-dig. I just encourage his fun." Alison smiles at Scott and sips her wine. "But I feel you. A change of pace is great for everyone's frame of mind. I'm glad you all came out. He'd be sad if it was a flop." She tells Scott and looks over the group. "I've been enjoying visiting at the school. It's a good place to get writing done for the album."

Samuel Guthrie has posed:
Sam Guthrie smiles and says "Hey guys, he clasps Berto on the shoulder for a moment, and smiles. He looks over to Stephanie, and says "And you must be Steph, just remember if it sounds like a bad idea got us into something it was probably Berto's idea." He will smile and says "Seriously good to meet you as well, Ah had homed Alexis would be able to make it, but seems somethings she had to deal with has held her up.

Paige Guthrie has posed:
Paige looks a little relived when she sees her brother finally arrive. Anything to break the awkward silence. She hustles on over to come to his side and asks, "Hey, Sam. Who's your friends?"

Roberto da Costa has posed:
Roberto returns the clap on his shoulder with one on Sam's and a mimed punch at his friend's ribs. "Hey, man. Yeah this is Steph. Now don't make regret you guys getting to talk," he points a finger at Sam. "No sharing embarrassing stories," he tells him with a grin.

He continues to grin as Warren joins them, "Hey, thanks for throwing this party, amazing as always, and yes, this is Steph, she's from down in Gotham but don't hold that against her, she's actually a good person," he jokes with a smirk sent Steph's way.

Warren Worthington has posed:
Warren takes Stephanie's hand and gives it a gentle shake. "A pleasure to meet you, but please call me Warren. Any friend of his is a friend of ours, so no need for the formalities." He looks at Berto and shakes his head, "Hey, Hank has a really good friend from Gotham too. Carrie Kelly is her name, and the two of them seem to be getting along very well, it's cool." He pauses a moment and then nods, "Oh, and while introductions are being made, let me wave Alison over." He glances over his shoulder to catch sight of Ali, then waves her over.

Rahne Sinclair has posed:
    Oh....someone catches Rahne....and there is a tense moment with the Scot until she realizes just who has caught her. The expression of near panic melts away into recognition...and comfort...as Rahne greets Illyana with a half smile. "Oh, 'ello there, Illy."

    But then, there is that asking for help. The request that might earn the young Russian a perplexed look, since even Rahne knows that it is rare that Illyana needs help for anything. But...it is a friend, asking for help. That is the perfect bait for Rahne...and her Russian friend knows this.

    WIth a light sigh, the redhead nods and glances back towards the crowd in general. "Help, ye say. Well, ye know Ah cannae resist a friend in need." One deep breath is taken...the wolf girl steeling herself for the task at hand. Then...back to Illy. "Lead on. Ah'm right wit' ye."

Stephanie Brown has posed:
Stephanie Brown puts on a sweet smile as she tells Roberto in a voice laced with simple goodness and honesty, "Oh no, we'd never think of sharing embarrassing stories about you. Far from it." She then looks over to Sam, not bothering to hide the comedic roll of her blue eyes and a little hand gesture, her finger towards Sam, towards herself, then back to him as if they'll talk later. After, she turns back to Roberto, resuming that look of sweet adoration like the silent exchange never took place.

Stephanie turns back to Warren in time to gasp at Roberto's comment. It nets him a tiny little playful elbow if he isn't already dodging it. He's gotten good at anticipating them so it's quite possible he does.

Stephanie shakes Warren's hand. "Alright, Warren then," she agrees. And then she goes up on her toes. "Yes! I know Carrie! Pretty well. She's a good friend. And met Doctor McCoy at a thing with Roberto. Yes, I was kind of hoping there seemed some chemistry there that might continue," she says.

Stephanie follows Warren's gaze over towards the famous singer. It's possible to see notes of excitement in her expression though she tries to keep it under control. Because that's what Stephanie is a bastion of. Self-control.

Illyana Rasputina has posed:
Liquor might not be in the cards, partly because Piotr watches, but Illyana most definitely considers it. Subtle, a sidelong long now or then. She doesn't make a point of slinking to the bar the instant Scott vacates the room. "Berto brought his girlfriend, Stephanie," she murmurs to Rahne. "Tabby was with Paige, Sam's younger sister, and Julio... wherev-- there." See, she can discover them through the melange of people here, there, everywhere. The clotting connections around Sam include their teammates, so come along and enjoy the company.

Seeing Alison pulled in by Warren, she ventures a little closer. Someone that Rahne can say /hi/ to! All the possibilities of introductions so she doesn't have to are worth their weight in gold. "They have honeycakes to find. And maybe I will swap one for the Hope Diamond."

If anyone prefers she doesn't, it may or may not be too late before evil ideas are brewing. She curls her fingers to Tabby, encouraging her to come nearer.

Bobby Drake has posed:
Bobby Drake wanders over toward the terrace after a bit, carrying his drink there and finding a spot to settle and people watch, having finished off his honey cake. He seems content, just taking everything in, watching people come and go and mingle and the conversations going on around him.

Alison Blaire has posed:
Listening to the music, Ali wanders back towards the food to pick at and notices Warren's wave. Sipping her wine she ambles over and smiles. "Hey, what's up?" She asks and looks up at Warren. She leans into one hip and rests her head against Warren's shoulder.

Julio Richter has posed:
Julio watches Tabby zip away with Illyana to get Rahne, leaving him hovering on the periphery of the cluster of Sam, Paige, Stephanie, and Roberto, with Warren fast approaching. He rubs at the back of his neck and asks, "Please tell me that guy actually teaches ethics. Or /some/ kind of elective. I made a greeeeeeat first impression, so I think I should avoid being graded by him." But as he looks to see where Scott went, he catches Bobby's eye and realizes that the other teacher witnessed the entire dressing-down. With a sigh, he adds, "Math: not an elective."

Piotr Rasputin has posed:
Piotr takes a few moment to relax and then decides to join the others in the knot of Warren, Alison, Berto, Stephanie, Sam, etc. after getting a refill of Dew. He then says, "Glad to see you all made it, hopefully you are all enjoying your summer breaks so far?"

Samuel Guthrie has posed:
Sam Guthrie smiles and will look over to Paige, and says "Well you have most of the gang, at one time or another, but lets go down the list. And since Sam has been introduced to Steph now, he knows most if not all the people here and will motion to each one giving their names." He looks back to Steph, and says "We never ever" did anything embaressing or sneaky." He grins broadly at this.

Warren Worthington has posed:
"Yeah, Carrie seems pretty cool. Though speaking of Gotham, it's been some time since I last visited there. Seems like a city with a lot of, uh, history." Warren says, nodding to Stephanie for a moment. Then Julio's comment catches his attention and he laughs. "You talking about Scott? Yeah, he's a real stickler. Great guy though, very dependable. He's a rock." Then Alison is approaching and he smiles, slipping an arm around her waist and gesturing towards Stephanie. "Alison, this is Stephanie Brown, a friend of Roberto's from Gotham. Stephanie, this is Alison Blaire."

Roberto da Costa has posed:
"Wow, they're still a thing huh?" Roberto says both surprised and pleased for both Carrie and Hank. "Guess it really is a tale as old as time," he says in sing-song, to the tune of the theme of Beauty and the Beast.

Sam gets a nod of agreement about the two of them never doing anything sneaky. Because that's totally true.

And as Allison joins them Roberto gives the singer a nod but lets Steph take center stage when it came to meeting her.

Paige Guthrie has posed:
"I'm good at math," Paige tells Julio. "Just come to me if you need any help." When Sam goes down the list of his friends, some of whom she's met before, but a lot of them she hasn't, she does a round of "Pleased to meechas" and "How do you dos"

When Sam mentions how he /never ever/ did any sneaking around, Paige just bursts out laughing. "Oh, I have /stories/ I could tell if you ever need some embarrassment ammunition."

Stephanie Brown has posed:
As Sam makes the introduction that includes Paige, Stephanie greets her with an amiable smile. "Hello Paige, really nice to meet you. So you both go to school together, or are you in town visiting?" she asks, seemingly realizing it's a private school and not one that is necessary full of locals.

Stephanie does manage to conceal her glee as Dazzler comes over. "Miss Blaire, really nice to meet you," the Gothamite offers. "Enjoy your work as well," she says with a big smile, but resisting the urge to go fan any further than that.

Stephanie looks back over to Roberto. Just a quick smile, enough he'll know she's enjoying herself. She looks back to Paige as the other girl mentions stories as well. "Oh, now there's someone I definitely need to grab to talk to later then," she says to Paige warmly.

Illyana Rasputina has posed:
Math: could be worse. "Scott's lessons of preparedness are best," Illyana deadpans. Or she always talks with such a degree of lamentable flat delivery, markedly amused. Something then to potentially worry about in a dangerous situation. Snatching up a plate with a honeybun on it, she swiftly goes about destroying some baker's handiwork by shearing off smaller morsels best suited to consuming at a speed best called efficient. Mannered as someone might expect, but rapidly devoured as though it's not going to last.

"Embarrassment ammunition," she repeats Paige's words to Sam. "A wise time to run."

Alison Blaire has posed:
"Oh hi. Nice to meet you Stephanie. Glad you like my music, I've been working on a new album here. Great space for it, huh?" Alison smiles brightly and offers a hand. She looks at Roberto and grins a little wider. "Hi here." She murmurs and looks to Warren easily. "Some of the songs might even refer to a someone." She teases lightly.

Julio Richter has posed:
Julio glances over at Piotr, eyes widening slightly -- it's hard to miss someone that big when they sidle up next to you -- and answers, "Enjoying it, si -- but it's not much of a break. I have a lot of classes to catch up on." Illyana's addition elicits an amused snort, and then Paige's offer gets a grateful smile. "Yeah, you'll probably hear from me," he tells her. Especially if he's also in trouble with the math teacher, and not just the scoutmaster.

He watches the exchange between Stephanie and Alison with a bit of bewilderment, then leans to one side and mumbles, "Wait. Should I know who scarecrow lady is?" He's not even really paying attention to who he's asking.

Rahne Sinclair has posed:
    There is a glance over to Sam....as Illyana repeats the younger Guthrie's words about her older brother. Rahne might actually blush, in sympathy perhaps? Though, since the pastry table has been located, that blush is soon forgotten as Rahne takes a particularly delectable appearing morsel and tries it out. After all, can't put one's foot in her mouth if it is full of something else.

Paige Guthrie has posed:
Paige nods to Stephanie, "Yup. We both go to the same school, but Sam's already graduated. I'm in my senior year." And then Stephanie goes all gaga over Allison so Paige takes a step back. To Julio, "I think I've heard of her, actually. Not really anything I listen to."

Piotr Rasputin has posed:
Piotr nods to Julio, "Lessons are important but make sure to take care of yourself. Not getting burned out is just as important as studying." He listens and it takes a moment to process who Julio is speaking about before he says, "Da. That is my little sister, Illyana." The tone is not the pleasant one from before, but a bit serious and blunt.

Warren Worthington has posed:
"Oh hey Piotr, did you try the honeycake? Hope it was to your liking." Warren says to his friend as he noticed that he approached the group. He then flashes Ali a small smile and nods, "I look forward to hearing the new songs, Ali, I bet they are as great as everything else you've come up with." He glances to Stephanie and Berto then. "Have either of you had any of the food? You should, it's all really good stuff." He nods and shows them his plate with the two pieces of cake on it, even though he's yet to take a bite.

Alison Blaire has posed:
"Pizza and wine might have to be scrapped. I don't see that one going anywhere." Alison sighs at Warren and looks back to the others. Looking to Paige and Julio, Ali shrugs. She doesn't feel it's that big of a deal. Looking from Paige to Sam she pauses for a minute and nods briefly.

Stephanie Brown has posed:
Stephanie Brown shakes the offered hand from Dazzler, a big smile still on the blond's face. "Really? Yes, I bet this place is great for inspiration. The views in New York are just gorgeous. Roberto's mother has a great spot in Gotham but I don't think we will ever quite have the skyline that New York does. Even if we've got the whole gargoyle, gothic motif going for us," she says with a soft chuckle. "Good luck with the album," Stephanie offers to Alison.

Stephanie looks back to Paige and says, "Ah, senior year. Best time in school. I mean, ok, not that the years before it are necessarily that hot either, but still," she says with a goofy smile. "Won't be long before the party will be in your honor, right?"

Warren's comment on the food brings a glance from Stephanie to Roberto. "Maybe we'll go grab some drinks and a plate," she says with a nod after noting Roberto's interest in something to eat. Roberto clasps Sam on the shoulder and says, "Need to get over and get something before you've eaten it all, right?"

Julio Richter has posed:
Fortunately, no one can tell embarrassing stories about Julio before he embarrasses himself. "Oh, I know Illyana," he reassures the bigger Russian quickly. He's wary of that tone shift. "She helped get me to the school. I didn't know you were her brother, though." He doesn't add: Friends? Still friends?? Please friends?

Spying an escape from brotherly protectiveness, he hops into the conversation about recording and asks, "Are there music lessons at the school? Maybe I could learn the drums or something."

Samuel Guthrie has posed:
Sam Guthrie chuckles and says "I think your the one who will be packing it in." He chuckles a bit and looks over to Allison "This is Paige, not sure if you remember her, you and Lila were pretty out of it once we got ya out of the crash and you could let yourself fall over." He smiles a bit and says "Trying to get Jay up here, but taking that boy out of the mountains, well thats not an easy thing.

Warren Worthington has posed:
"Hey, gothic architecture and gargoyles can be kinda cool. I mean, yeah, no city has the skyline that New York has, but every city can tell it's own stories, sing its own songs." Warren glances around. "Well, I mean, I think so. I was never much for poetry or anything like that." Julio's comment about the drums causes him to grin. "Hey man, if you want to learn the drums, give it a go. I was always told no, but the school is pretty good about letting people follow their passions if it will make them productive, so I doubt you'll run into that issue."

Paige Guthrie has posed:
Paige sighs and nods at Sam. "I talked to him when I went home," she tells him. "Still doesn't want to come. I'm sure that sooner or later he'll break and will want to be with the rest of us." At the introduction she smiles politely and holds her hand out to shake at Allison. "Pleased to meet you."

Illyana Rasputina has posed:
Fingers idly curl around the edge of the plate, and Illyana eventually gathers up crumbs. They need to be shunted around, ruffled a little here and there. Remnants of honey and yeasted bread crushed into specks form a tiny moonlet in the ring of the plate, saturated a little knot. Her head tilts up slightly to see Piotr, measured by his much greater height. There is a family resemblance in the bone structure, the fine details, though one is carved from an entirely different scale and magnitude than the other. That slight arc of a smirk shows itself. She meets his serious, blunt look with one appraising.

"Best of brothers. This week, we must host dinner, da? Rahne, do you like pierogi and potatoes? He makes them so well." Unfair and unpolitic considering Rahne's eating. "Tabitha, you too?" Those words are given entirely while her pale eyes are gateways to total doom.

Tabitha Smith has posed:
"Me too what?" Tabitha has spaced out, it seems, and that might be because she's gotten lost in texting someone on her phone. She glances upwards at Illy, then around to try and figure out what she's being asked.

Alison Blaire has posed:
Shaking Paige's hand, Ali nods. "Hi. Sorry. Yeah, I was pretty out of it Sam." She notes with a look at the siblings before looking back to Stephanie and Warren. "I'm pretty excited. I just hope things mellow out before I'm ready to start playing new songs. This would be a dicey time for concerts." She sighs sadly.

Piotr Rasputin has posed:
Piotr raises a brow to Julio, "I see," going to give the benefit of the doubt on this one. Fortunately, Illy mentions dinner and he ponders and nods, "Da. I could arrange for a dinner at some point. I am sure Boris will enjoy having new victims to torment. "I have a couple of others I could throw an invitation to. Obviously it cannot be too big, unless I were to host it elsewhere." The staff quarters are not as roomy as some, but for their local, not the absolute worst by any measure.

Samuel Guthrie has posed:
Sam Guthrie nods, and says "Well good to hear your doing ok, have you had a chance to actually talk to Alexis yet, I believe she said was supposed to meet with you soon Allison." He looks to Paige, and adds "Bet ya Melody makes it up before Josh."

Rahne Sinclair has posed:
    "Ah think Illy was askin' if we wanted tae go tae a dinner..." The words trail off as Rahne then nods over to Illyana, who confirms exactly what Rahne just said. "Ah'd be up fer it. But Ah'm really not picky wit' what Ah eat, either. Ah just be thankful fer what the Lord provides an' go wit' that." Oh...yes. A bit of Rahne's upbringing slipped in there...but she seems to be getting a bit more comfortable now. Because, yes, she is talking....which was Illy's evil plot, after all.

Julio Richter has posed:
Julio flashes a rare grin; it's sincere, but also hard-edged just beneath the surface. "I don't know about productive, but there's lots to write punk songs about these days," he says. "I bet there are lots of students who would be into it." Alison's comment about concerts gives him pause, though, and his expression shifts to a slight grimace. "I guess that's true. If you get enough mutants in your fanbase to make it crazy to try anything, venues won't want you." He crosses his arms. "Hmph. The revolution will not be spotified."

He does brighten a little when Piotr seems to ease up on him. He has quickly developed an unwavering keep-the-Rasputins-on-his-side policy.

Paige Guthrie has posed:
"Never bet on a sure thing," Paige retorts. "I'm going to go freshen up my drink," she tells him, before disappearing to the bar. For the rest of the evening she just kinds of hangs out, talking politely with anyone, and waits for Sam to take her home when they're finished.

Illyana Rasputina has posed:
Illyana nods to confirm Rahne's statement about dinner and Piotr's recommendation for torm-- err, baking. "Does Boris like crowds?" she asks, tipping her head. Thoughts sketched across her features are rare to read and fleeting fast, coloured in slightest hues. Something agreeably brokered in tasty details with -food-. Because this is an object lesson for Julio: distract the big Russian paladin with talk of hearty black bread and other tasty venues.

Warren Worthington has posed:
"Yeah, with all that's going on... though I guess you could do some livestreams. That might be cool? I know streaming is all the rage these days for video games." Warren gives a nod to Ali, and then overhearing something about dinner with Piotr and Illyana, he glances between the two, blinks, then picks up on the bit about Boris. "Oh, how is Boris? Has he conquered all of the campus in the name of Mother Russia yet? Have you found him a nice Svetlana to cuddle up with yet?"

Tabitha Smith has posed:
"Oh, sure. What are we eating?" Tabby wonders, turning her phone off and tucking it into her back pocket as she tries to reatch the threads of the conversation despite her so very obvious ignorance of it.

Alison Blaire has posed:
"Streaming could be a thing. I wouldn't want to put a crowd at risk if people wanted to do something about my music." Alison nods and looks to Sam. "I haven't spoken to Alexis since the pool party, I rather thought she wasn't interested." Alison admits and gives Warren's arm a squeeze. "I'll go get some wine, want anything Handsome?"

Piotr Rasputin has posed:
"I am sure Boris would love guests, he seems to enjoy most people anyway," Piotr says, though Boris has not met that many. "Good question," Phe notes as the mention of what is to be served is brought up. "Probably bread, borscht, and several other things." He thinks a bit more until Warren pipes up, "Boris is well behaved, besides shredded canvas. He has yet to be allowed to leave my apartment, lest he cause too much chaos, or cause someone's allergies to go off, and he is also only kitten, no girlfriend for him. Though you should join us, Warren, and you as well, Ali."

Samuel Guthrie has posed:
Sam Guthrie says, "I think it is more trying to get her life in order, with the whole foundation and some of the things Ema is showing her." Sam does not seem the biggest fan of Alexis being helped by Emma but lets it go"

Warren Worthington has posed:
Warren leans over and gives Ali's cheek a kiss. "You know, a glass of wine would be awesome, thank you." He gives her a little smile and then nods at Piotr. "Yeah we'd love to join you, so we can also see Boris and see how much of a little trickster he is. Though I have to ask, he doesn't like to go chasing after birds or anything does he? I don't want him trying to climb all over me."

Julio Richter has posed:
Julio vanishes momentarily and returns holding a plate of tapas, planning to have them on hand just in case before he asks who Boris is. Then Piotr goes ahead and says that he's a kitten, so: he has tapas to munch on! Between bites, he suggests semi-sarcastically, "Just come up with some kind of thing it's easy to make TikTok dances to. That's where the money is, right?"

Alison Blaire has posed:
Looking to Julio, Alison shakes her head a bit. "It's more about wanting to write to capture a memory or say something important. Being catchy is helpful but, if there is no substance I won't be happy with it." She murmurs and goes to get Warren a glass of wine. She looks over at the group and smiles. "I'd be happy to join in, Piotr."

Stephanie Brown has posed:
Stephanie Brown and Roberto return with drinks, and each carrying a small plate with a few finger foods on it. Roberto leads his date over to where Piotr and Julio are talking. He nods to them both and when it's a good moment he says, "Wanted to introduce my date. Stephanie Brown, this is Piotr Rasputin, Illyana's brother like I mentioned before. And this is Julio Richter," he says.

Stephanie gives both men a friendly smile. "Hello, really nice to meet you both," she says. She glances to Piotr and must think him a bit older as she asks, "Are you visiting with Illyana, or are you affiliated with the school as well?" she asks. To Julio, "Nice to meet you. Are you a student or already graduated?"

Piotr Rasputin has posed:
"He watches the birds in the window, but he has not chased any, nyet," Piotr notes to Warren and gives Alison a nod of acknowledgement before also nodding to Stephanie and Berto as they approach, "Congratulations again, Roberto," he says regarding graduation and continues, "And welcome to you as well, Stephanie. I teach art and Russian at the school. Just finished my first year of teaching."

Julio Richter has posed:
Julio smiles and assures Alison, "Oh, yeah, I wasn't serious. I can't imagine any mutant today who wouldn't have something to say in their art." He turns to Stephanie, but pauses to run a hand through his hair before he answers. "Good question, actually. I'm the same age as everybody who just graduated, but I had to take a couple of years off from school." His expression sours slightly, but he doesn't elaborate on the cause of his hiatus. "I just got to the school, so they're making me a senior. I should only graduate about a year behind, if I can do enough summer classes and night tutoring to catch up." He takes a deep breath and glances at the part of the Penthouse where Scott is doing his straight-laced best to mingle. "And if I don't get in too much trouble, I guess."