Meeting of Fate

by Kairos Fateweaver

A role play with a friend, that turned into a story about magical girl's and their fights against each other and the hardships they face.

28. Chapter 28

Ch.28 - Kira Crew Shopping Spree

Rather than an alarm waking her up, Kara had to face off against her phone metaphorically exploding with pings from the Kira-Chat. The other members of the shopping trip planned for today were already up and active and it had only just turned 8am. Pings kept flooding in as more messages were sent to the group chat. Haley was able to sleep soundly through it but that wasn't much of a surprise.

Kara remained asleep with Haley snuggled in her arms. When instead of her alarm going off to wake her up. It was her phone exploding with tons of pings from the Kira-chat. Opening her eyes Kara reached over and took her phone looking to see that the time. Was 8am and what the messages were currently saying. As she searched through the messages Kara also kept an eye out for any messages from Ryu, Kiki or Charon about if anything else happened last night after she left.

Having her rest disturbed by the chat, Kara decided to look though the action to see what all the messages were about. Activity in the chat had first started at half six that morning and had been pretty non-stop since. The instigator of the massive influx in activity was none other than Rya. She started the chain with a fitting question as to when and where they were all to meet up before shopping. According to the messages, the meeting place was just outside Cafe Kira at around 10am. Once the location and time was confirmed, the chat changed into a more casual one with the girls sharing various kinds of swimsuit ideas which they could wear, example images included, and comparing tastes with one another. Somehow that chat had filled the previous hour and a half with non-stop messages.

Aside from girls being girls, there were no updates from Kiki or the others regarding the events of the previous evening.

Kara looked through the messages to see what they were about. Everything about this had been started by Rya at 6:30 that morning. Along with at what time they would all meet up at which would be 10am at Cafe Kira. The other messages were about swimsuit ideas and pictures were used as examples. Kara browsed through those looking for anything mentioning the sleepover. She also didn't get any updates from Kiki or the others about last nights events.

After searching through her messages was complete. Kara slowly crawled out of bed and began getting ready for the day ahead. As she started to get dressed into some causal clothes after having taken a quick shower. She stopped at the dresser and opened it looking around she took out a small jewel box. Opening it open to reveal the Pardoner's Circlet inside she looked at it and then closed it. Taking it out and placing it in her pocket with thoughts of giving this to Holly that morning.

Trawling through the numerous messages to the chat, Kara looked for any mentioning of the Sleepover arrangements. There wasn't much talk about that in this particular chat group as this one was aimed solely at the Shopping trip they were doing today. There might've been some more mentions about it in the topic Leigh created yesterday to inform people about room arrangements but that would require more digging through conversations.

Judging by the fact that she had just under two hours before meeting up with the rest of the Kira Crew, Kara started to get ready for the day ahead. When she had returned after her shower, Haley had woken up and wasn't looking too pleased with Kara leaving her without saying anything. It was little more than just regular needy behaviour which would easily be resolved without much effort.

Now she was ready for the day ahead, Kara had about an hour and three quarters before having to meet up with the others. Taking into account travel distance, Kara would have to set out at least 30 minutes before the meeting time in order to not be late. Considering how much Rya seemed to be looking forward to it, she likely wouldn't tolerate tardiness.

Kara planned to dig through the messages for Leigh's message about room arrangements later. When she returned after getting ready for the day ahead she saw that Haley had woken up looking not too pleased with having been left alone. Kara apologized for that and walked over and sat down on her bed.

"How are you feeling?" Kara asked.

With about 90 minutes until she was supposed to meet up with the others. That left her with little time she had to plan things carefully. She also planned on visiting Kiki and the others this morning to see how things were going with them. In the meantime, Kara would spend time with Haley and the others.

Kara already had a plan for the time between now and the Shopping trip. First on her agenda was to check in with Haley.

"Better, I think. Dunno what yesterday was all about." Haley replied. "You're out for most of today, aren't you? Will you be back later?"

Haley was indeed looking more like, and behaving more like, her usual self. Although, one thing did catch Kara's attention. Even though she wasn't wearing any of her nighttime protection, Haley hadn't had an accident and didn't appear to be too badly in need of the toilet even now. Things might've started to be looking up for her little problem.

"I'm happy to see you're feeling better we were all really worried about you," Kara explained as Haley asked her next question.

"Yes, I'm spending most of the day with the Kira crew. I'm not sure about what time I will be back there's also supposed to be a sleepover planned as well, I'm sorry."

While Kara knew Haley would be upset telling her the truth would be the best option. One thing Kara did catch was that Haley wasn't wearing her nighttime protection, nor did she have any sort of accident and didn't need to use the bathroom. Things were looking up for which made Kara proud of her.

"There's something I wanna ask you but it also involves Lilly and Holly too. Do you think that they are already up?"

Kara admitted that she likely wouldn't be at home for a long while yet due to the shopping trip, followed by a sleepover and the day out the following morning.

"Boo." Haley pouted. "Guess there's not much I can do about that. Don't have too much fun without me."

Haley wasn't too put off by the fact Kara wouldn't be spending time with her. It would probably be best to plan for souvenirs for each of the Sera girls just so they got a little of the fun Kara would be having. The next thing Kara had to ask Haley required everyone being present.

"Dunno if they're up yet. You could go and check." Haley answered while rubbing some of the sleep out of her eyes. "I'm gonna stop by the bathroom quickly."

With that, Haley got out of bed and made her way to the closest bathroom to get ready for the day ahead.

Haley wasn't too put off that Kara couldn't find the time to spend with her. But getting souvenirs for the others. Would be a good idea that way everyone would be able to enjoy a little fun that Kara was having.

"The next time I'm free we can do something together then?" Kara asked.

Haley wasn't sure if the others were up yet and that Kara could go check. Haley got out of bed and headed to the nearest bathroom. Kara walked with her before parting ways and headed towards Lilly's room thinking that Holly would also be there as well. She arrived at Lilly's door and then gave it a knock and soon another.

"Lilly, Holly it's me Kara are you two up yet there's something I'd like to ask you both?"

Kara waited around for an answer after getting nothing she placed her hand on the doorknob.

"I'm coming in."

Kara opened the door and walked inside.

"I'm taking that as a promise." Haley confirmed Kara's suggestion.

Following on from Haley heading off to the bathroom, Kara walked with her part of the way and the split off to go and check up on Lilly and Holly. After a knock at their door didn't spark any response at all, Kara was left with no other alternative but to head on into the bedroom. As Kara may have expected, both Lilly and Holly were snuggled together underneath the bed covers still fast asleep. Knowing what time Lilly usually set her weekend alarm to, Kara wouldn't have to wait long until that woke them up at half past eight. Alternatively, she could wake them up earlier than that if she really wanted to.

Walking into Lilly's room she saw that Lilly and Holly were snuggled together under the bed covers. They had yet to wake up just yet and knowing that Lilly usually didn't wake up until 8:30 Kara was left to wait or try and wake them up herself. Kara walked out of the room deciding to wait for now. She headed back to where Haley was and went on to spend some extra time with her before trying Lilly and Holly again later.

Letting sleeping Lilly's lie, Kara left technology to awaken the pair at the designated time and instead headed back to where she'd split off from Haley to spend some time with her. Haley was still presently in the bathroom as indicated by the sound of the shower running. She should be finished soon enough, but it was unlikely she'd be angered if Kara went in there while she was showering. Where before the twins were a little more reserved about being naked around Kara, they'd quickly gotten over their apprehensions and were now comfortable enough to at least bathe together with Kara. Haley had of course taken to it quicker than Holly and, even though she'd not verbalised it, Haley would potentially be happy enough to take her baths with Kara now.

Kara headed back to the bathroom where Haley. Currently was and hearing the shower running which meant Haley would be finished soon. Kara knocked on t he door informing Haley in a little louder voice that she was coming in. So that she would be able to hear her over the sound of the shower. Once inside the bathroom, Kara took a seat on the toilet and waited for Haley. In the meantime, she went back on the KiraApp and looked for Leigh's message through the tons of messages already for what the sleeping arrangements on what time she'd be needed to join the others at Cafe Kira.

Kara chose to wait in the bathroom while Haley finished her shower. She called through to let Haley know she was coming in and received a confirmation from Haley. When she was inside the bathroom Kara took a seat on the toilet and started looking through the Kira app. Through the misted up glass of the shower cubicle, Kara could see Haley's outline as she finished cleaning herself up.

Searching through the messages in the Room Arrangements topic, Kara saw a couple of messages from her room buddies. Mary and Tama were very happy with their room arrangements and were evidently looking forward to the sleepover; Rya, Kate and Bryn had no strong feelings either way but it was clear they were happy with the result and Xion and Annmarie were rather unsure about it all but knew that it was probably for the better. Leigh did joke about the potential chance that Mary and Tama would be too busy spending the entire night playing and talking so they'd be exhausted for the following day, which resulted in some joking comments from Kate in regards to her little sister still somehow managing to hold a conversation while sleeping.

"Whatcha looking at?" Haley interjected into Kara's focus on her phone. Somehow Kara had been so engrossed that she'd not heard the shower stop or noticed the nude Haley that was now standing right next to her and leaning over Kara's shoulder to see the phone screen.

With a brief look over at Haley only to see her outline. As she was busy finishing up cleaning herself Kara searched through the phone messages on the KiraApp. A few of them turned out to be from her room buddies about how they. Were all happy and looking forward to the event she looked for the meeting time. Yet didn't find anything and being so engrossed on her phone. Kara was unaware that the shower had stopped and that. Haley was now standing next to her naked and speaking. This startled Kara for a moment who turned to respond and look at Haley.

"Just some messages from my fellow coworkers," Kara answered. She let Haley see what she was looking at before putting away her phone. This let Kara focus her full attention on Haley again.

Kara's search for a meeting time in the comments for the sleepover didn't yield any results. Although, she was about to be meeting with members of the Cafe who would certainly know more about it. Haley's sudden appearance did startle Kara a little, which prompted a chuckle from the girl herself. Kara explained what she was looking at before showing Haley the chat messages.

"Nothing that interesting, then." Haley sighed.

Kara then put her phone away an d focused her full attention on Haley, taking in her deliciously naked appearance, devouring the curves of her hips and the small indent of her mound, gazing longingly at the pert nipples on her flat chest...

...or so she would have at any other times, but now was not one of those times.

"Well, as you're in here anyway, want to towel me down?"

"Sure," Kara said.

Having taken her time in enjoying the naked appearance of her younger sister. Kara went over and grabbed a towel and began to towel Haley down. Doing her best to completely dry her off in the process. Then moved away to allow Haley to get dressed in her clothes. After Haley finished up they made their way back to Kara's room. Where they hung out together a little bit longer until both girls began to get hungry for breakfast.

Too tempted to decline the offer to touch her little sister all over, Kara didn't waste a moment in accepting the chance to towel Haley down. Taking up the fluffiest towel the bathroom had to offer, Kara started to dry off Haley.

With o nly the thin, fluffy material of the towel between her hands and Haley's body, Kara may as well have been touching Haley's body with her bare hands. She could feel every curve and every accent of her little sister's body, from her tender nipples all the way to her soft privates and delectable rear. Haley didn't tell Kara to not clean her special areas, so that was free ground for the towelling as well.

When Haley was fully dried off, the pair left the bathroom and split up for a moment while Haley went to get dressed. A short time later the pair joined up again and spent some time in Kara's room until Lilly's alarm woke her and Holly up so they could all go and have breakfast.

They had left Kara's room and headed to go have breakfast. They ended up running into Lilly and Holly upon the stairs going down to the first floor. This was good because now Kara had the chance to do a couple of things she had wanted to do that morning. After saying good morning to the other two everyone walked into the dining room together and took their seats at the table all except Kara.

She took out the small gift box the had the pardoners circlet. Inside of it and walked over to Holly.

"Here's something that I believe will be of some help to you," Kara told her as she handed the box to Holly.

She then took her seat and then spoke up again.

"There's something I'd like to ask all three of you. It's about the tournament that is starting in two days what I'd like to know is that. First, if you guys had signed up for it as I did, second would be if any of you three had decided upon. Who you would like to partner up with and if any of you guys would like to partner up with me?"

Now she'd finally gotten to see an awake Holly and Lilly, Kara could progress more with her plans. Once everyone was seated around the Dining Table, Kara got started on working towards her goals. Firstly, Kara handed over the Pardoner's Circlet to Holly, who looked to be rather confused by it all.

"I'm not sure what this does, but it seems important for something." Holly responded. "It seems like part of a set so I'll be sure to look after it."

Next up, Kara asked about the upcoming Tournament.

"We've all signed up for it but left our grouping to be open." Lilly explained. "I'd rather the pairings be balanced enough so we all stand a chance. Although, are you sure you want to be fighting in it? That'll mean facing us as well."

"I don't mind who I'm partnered with so long as they can keep up with me." Haley interjected. "Having Holly along would be great for support, but that'll mean I have to do all the fighting stuff. I want to fight alongside someone."

"I'd rather be with someone who can keep me safe from harm. I don't like fighting, but I hate pain even more." Holly added in.

"I know that you've already got questions about. What I'd just given you forming in your head, I will try to explain things to you about that item later." Kara told Holly.

Holly, while confused about the item, seemed to understand it was part of a set. Next, the three girls answered Kara's question about the tournament.

"I've already made up my mind on fighting in it. I also understand that it means I will have to face all three of you. That's something that shall provide a challenge for me and you three as well."

All three sisters were open about who they would partner with. Allowing Kara the chance to pick on of the three if she so wished.

"I'm going to give you three the chance to think about this a little more. While if I could I'd team up with all three of you but know I can only pick one of you. If you can please think about what I can offer you in terms of being a partner. You've all seen me battle and know my strengths and weaknesses. What I would like in return would be someone who I can battle with but also some who can also support me."

Kara let the three of them think on her words for a bit before speaking again.

"I will give you each until tomorrow evening when I return home. That's when I'd like to speak on this again and will pick my partner then."

Kara explained that she'd let the others think on who they'd want to partner with. The deadline she gave was until she got back the following evening.

"Guess that'll give us something to do while you're off having fun." Haley answered. "Why we gotta wait until tomorrow, though? I'm sure we've all got ideas on who we'll work best with. We were waiting on you to pick your partner before we decided ours."

Haley wanted to know why they needed to wait until tomorrow. To decide on who they would like to be partnered with. But they were waiting on Kara to pick her partner first before picking their own.

"It would allow me to think more upon. Which of you guys I'd like to be partners with while at the same time. Allowing you to think about what it would be like to partner with me." Kara tried to explain.

As she thought about this idea of hers it did sound good in theory. Since having more time to think on who'd be Kara's best partner out of the three girls. Would allow her to think of ways that she could use her own strengths to help her partners weaknesses and the same could be said about her partner helping her.

The downside to this was that while others would have a better chance. To think more on this Kara herself didn't have much time. Seeing as how she was bound to forget about it during the fun that she would be having. She thought about what to do next and decided to come to a decision.

"If you guys don't want to wait until tomorrow to learn my answer. I shall give you my answer now, the one who I will like to partner up with shall be you, Holly."

Kara relented and finally settled on a partner for the Tournament. It didn't really come as much of a surprise to the others but, with their sole source of restoration being claimed up by their enemy, they'd have to rethink their strategies.

"I knew someone would've chosen to partner with me. Guess this is what it feels like to be a Healer Class in those Online games I've heard a lot about." Holly responded. "I'll do my best."

Haley looked a little disappointed that she wasn't picked, but soon returned to her usual self.

"We both know who to focus on in the fights, then." Haley mischievously interjected. "Better make sure you're on the ball and looking out for her."

With her partner finally having been picked that left. Lilly and Haley as forming a team of their own. Kara now had quite the challenge on her hands being the only fighter on their team and needing to fill the role of defender. So that Holly wouldn't get taken out quickly at all.

"I that you will, I think this will be fun," Kara said.

One of the reasons why Kara had picked Holly. Was because this would allow them to spend more time together.

"Do you honestly think I'll allow that to happen, we will be quite the challenge for you both. Just make sure you come at me with everything you've got."

With their rivalries set all that remained was to wait until the Tournament to prove who the better pairing was. The playful challenges continued for the rest of Breakfast and, when all their plates were cleared, Kara was reminded of her other obligations for the day.

"So, when are you meeting up with your friends at the Cafe?" Haley asked Kara.

According to the clock on the wall, it had just gone quarter past nine, which left Kara around 45 minutes before she was expected at the Cafe.

With the playful rivalries set and the playful challenges running through. The rest of breakfast it came to an end and with their plates cleared Kara. Had to make ready for the day ahead which Haley reminded her of.

"I've got to mind up with them at 10 am." Kara told her.

She looked over at the clock on the wall seeing. That it was a quarter past nine Kara cursed herself for losing track of time. She was also forgetting one important thing that she had wanted to do that morning too.

"I'd better get going now, as there's something I needed to take care of."

Kara didn't want to leave this quickly but. She wanted to see how Kiki was doing after the events of last night. So, after having gathered up her belongings for the day ahead and a rather quick goodbye to all three sisters. Kara headed off to the cafe but first, she had a pit stop to make.

When she was far enough away from the house and no one else was around. Kara used the key to create a door to Charon's place. She quickly unlocked the door and headed inside making a beeline to Kiki's room but also looking out for Ryu or Charon.

Kara soon realised that time had flown by while she was with the others. Gathering up her stuff for the sleepover and saying a quick goodbye to her sisters, Kara set off for the Cafe, taking a small detour on the way. Finding a secluded enough place, Kara use her Key to travel to Charon's residence in search of Kiki.

Once she had passed through the door, Kara went straight to Kiki's bedroom. En route to there, she noticed that the Training Space was currently in use as well. There was only one person she knew who frequented training sessions so much, so that explained where he was. Arriving outside Kiki's room, Kara could either head straight in or knock on the door.

During her walk to Kiki's room, Kara set the alarm on her phone to ring. In fifteen minutes time which would remind her of needing to get to the cafe. As she past, by the training space, she saw that it was in use. She knew of only one person who would be using it at this time she arrived outside of Kiki's room.

Knocking on the door Kara announced that it was her and she was entering into the room.

"Kiki, it's me Kara I'm coming in."

Placing her hand upon the doorknob Kara opened the door and walked inside.

Kara announced her presence before opening the door to Kiki's bedroom. The first thing that took her attention when she entered was Kiki's bed being stripped and the sheets that were on it bundled up in a pile on the floor. Only now did she hear the sound of a shower running in the private bathroom that was attached to the bedroom. Through rather regrettable personal experience, Kara knew such things could only be the result of a rather embarrassing event occurring. It seemed that, even if she appeared to be better, the psychological effects of such a traumatic event was likely playing on her.

Once inside the room, Kara took notice of the bedsheets on the floor in a pile. Along with the bed having been stripped, she could hear. The sound of the shower running in the private bathroom. She knew what could have caused this recent event to have taken place and didn't think about it. Kara still had her own psychological effects she dealt with from her own traumatic event in the past.

Not having a whole lot of time, Kara made her way to the private bathroom. She knocked on the door once again trying to get Kiki's attention. This time raising her voice over the sound of the running water.

"Kiki its me Kara, I wanted to know how you are doing?" Kara asked.

Disregarding the state of the room, and potentially what state Kiki might be in, Kara went straight over to the private bathroom and knocked on the door, raising her voice as she called through to the occupant. There was the sound of fumbling around with the shower head before the thunderous rain of the shower itself eased up enough so Kiki could be heard without shouting.

"Sorry, not in the mood to talk right now." Kiki answered, sounding a little more upset than what Kara might've been expecting.

She'd evidently taken quite the hit with her accident. It would be best for Kara to give her some space.

Kiki took the time to respond back to Kara by turning down the shower.

"Okay," Kara said.

Seeing that Kiki wasn't in the mood to talk right now. Kara hurried back to the training room to speak with Ryu in seeing how he fairing and to find out. What had happened during the course of the time she had left last night up until now. However, Kara found that the training room was currently empty meaning. Ryu had finished up with his workout, not really knowing where his room was and not having a lot of time. To look around for him or Charon Kara had to cut things short.

She ended up leaving and making her way to the Cafe. Planning to try and come back later if she had a free moment she soon arrived at the cafe.

Accepting Kiki's want to remain alone, Kara headed out of her room and back through the residence to the training area in search of Ryu. Alas, her search yielded no results as Ryu had since left the training area. As she had no clue where he was or where Charon might be, Kara called her visit short and left the Residence to join up with the others at the Cafe. When she reached the cafe it was nearing 10am. Considering nobody was standing outside, the members of her little shopping group were likely waiting inside. The day was shaping up to be a rather warm and pleasant day, so it was understandable that they didn't want to stand in the worst of the heat.

Opening the door to the Cafe, Kara looked around to find her group and was soon spotted by Rya.

"Hey, over here!" Rya called out to Kara. Looking at the source of the call, Kara found where everyone was. They pushed together a large number of tables to all be sat together. All of the names she'd seen in the chat group were present, along with an unexpected guest. Looking a little out of place amongst all of the Kira girls, Mikan also appeared to be present for their little shopping trip.

She didn't see anyone standing outside the cafe and went to the door. Opening it she looked around to find her group. But was spotted first by Rya who called her over. Kara moved along and found everyone seated at a large table. Had created by pushing some of the others together. Everyone was there but there was also an unexpected member that being Mikan. Taking a seat Kara looked at the entire group of girls.

"Hello, everyone." Kara greeted the group. She then looked to Mikan, "Didn't expect to see you here."

"Rya dragged me along to this. She said it'd do me good to get out of the Dorm Room on a day like today." Mikan explained why she was present at a previously exclusive shopping trip.

"Well, of course! Sitting around in that stuffy old dorm room when you could be out and about having fun on a wonderful day is just unforgivable. Besides, you wanted a new swimsuit as well, didn't you?" Rya defended her decision.

Looking around at everyone gathered together, Kara was treated to quite the variety of different outfits. She hadn't seen many of her coworkers in anything but their uniforms so this was something new.

Attempting to be the centre of attention like normal, Rya had gone for a tasty little light blue and yellow sleeveless top, which left her midriff exposed, and paired it off with a set of pastel pink shorts. Completing the outfit were a pair of white strappy sandals. She'd tied her hair off into her signature twintails and decorated them with starry hairbands. Unusually enough, she was also wearing a pink heart choker that Kara had never seen before.

In a much more demure fashion, Mikan had gone for a simple orange t-shirt and light brown skirt combination. Keeping to her plain dress sense for the day, Mikan's footwear consisted of a simple pair of light brown ankle boots and plain white socks.

Like chosen by her sister, Mary wore a cutesy white sundress covered in a sunflower pattern, which matched up well with her white and pink sandals. An equally cute looking sunhat rested on the table in front of her, completing the innocent ensemble.

In stark contrast to the others, Annmarie remained as her usual self and had donned a purple and white frilled gothic lolita dress, complete with a matching hairband and black dolly shoes. There was no way she wouldn't be sweltering in the heat once she stepped outside wearing that so, hopefully, she'd eventually relent and change into more suitable attire for Summer, assuming that one of the older girls had taken that into account.

Likely competing with Rya, Eve had chosen similarly revealing attire to her rival. Dressed in a lacy pink camisole over a tight fitting pink sleeveless top, coupled with a rather short pale red and white miniskirt and a set of red sandals, Eve was evidently out to get as many eyes on her as possible.

Living up to her elegant status, Olivia had opted for a refined and mature looking royal blue dress. It was a little shorter and more vibrant than the kind Kara was used to, potentially because it was designed for someone who was still young but wanted to look as enticing as possible. The dress matched off well with how Olivia had let her hair flow freely and not styled in any way. The last piece of the set, which were a nice pair of dark blue semi-heeled shoes, concluded the appeal Olivia was aiming for.

Now that everyone had gathered, the discussion about the day ahead could start.

"I have a rough plan of where we'll be going but nothing solid as of yet. I was hoping you all would know some more stores we could stop by that sold cute swimsuits." Rya informed the group. "We'll be stopping off for lunch at about half past one, so the last store we visit before then should be near somewhere where we can pick up lunch for a decent price."

"Well, it's nice to have you coming along with us this should be a fun outing," Kara told her.

She looked around at the large group of girls sitting around the table. She was treated with a wide variety of outfits that everyone was wearing. Some of them were nice choices as she had not seen many of her coworkers in causal clothes before. Mary looked sweet and innocent in her clothes she looked cute as usual.

"Looking forward to the sleepover tonight?" Kara asked her.

Mikan's choice of clothes seemed rather plain but it still looked nice on her. Rya was dressed nicely as well and Annmarie was dressed like her usual self. But was in a type of gothic-lolita outfit Kara was the first to notice that if she went outside in that. Annmarie would surely get hot very fast.

"Don't you think you might get hot in that?"

Kara turned to Eve and of course, could help but stare. Her choice was just like how she wanted things drawing the eyes of people upon her. Kara looked her up and down and smiled to herself. Then looked at Olivia and spoke to her.

"It's nice to get the chance to do something together."

Rya then spoke up about today's plans.

"We could stop at Boden's I hear they sell some cute swimsuits."

Once she'd had her fill of the variety of outfits the group had on, Kara asked if Mary was looking forward to the sleepover. As the smaller girl hopped off her seat to head round the table and sit on Kara's lap, she gave her answer.

"I really am! It's gonna be tons of fun with everybody there." Mary responded gleefully as she perched herself on Kara's lap.

Concerned for the thickness of the clothing Annmarie was wearing, Kara questioned the thoughts behind it.

"A little heat is nothing for a true Servant of the Dark Lord." Annmarie answered. "The fires of the Underworld burn much hotter than any Sun ever could." Despite how confident she sounded, Annmarie was seated directly under one of the AC units.

Kara then fell prey to Eve's captivating attire and only just managed to turn away to speak with Olivia before she lost herself in staring at Eve.

"That is true. It makes a nice change of pace for us all to be together outside of the workplace." Olivia agreed.

Moving on to the discussion at hand, Kara suggested they stop by a store named Boden's to see what they had to offer.

"Yeah, we can do that. Any other suggestions?" Rya asked the rest of those gathered. Many more suggestions flowed in and eventually there was an entire day's plan already formed. Rya recited the order of events back to the group and received confirmation that it sounded like a good plan. "Okay, now that we all know where we're going, shall we set out?"

In her usual fashion, Mary went over and took a seat upon Kara's lap. While saying how happy she was and how fun the sleepover would be. Kara wrapped both arms around Mary so she wouldn't slide off while both hands. Rested in the young girl's lap and Kara took this opportunity to enjoy her time with Mary.

"It should be fun, it's my first time doing something like this with everyone her," Kara told her.

Annmarie was confident that she'd be okay. But from what Kara saw Annmarie was seated beneath one of the AC units.

"If you say so, but I still think it might be better if you changed. Or at least drink plenty of fluids today."

Kara did look Eve's way a couple more times at Eve as Rya spoke. But also used this chance to further talk with Olivia.

"I've never really, done anything outside of work with you guys before."

With her attention back on Rya who was able to get. Out several more suggestions and the days' events recited back to them in order. With everyone agreeing that this was a good plan it was now time to set out. After helping Mary get off her lap Kara got up and went over to Eve.

"Nice choice of clothes they look great on you."

Kara then went back over to Mary and took her small hand along with Annmarie's. Began to take them towards the bathroom. While suggesting to Rya and Kate that it would be best if the younger members used the bathroom first before they all left.

Now that the order for the day was decided everyone was ready to set off out. Before that, Kara checked in with Eve to compliment her clothing.

"Thank you. You're dressed pretty nicely yourself." Eve answered.

Concerned for the younger members, Kara offered to take Mary and Annmarie off to the toilets before they left the Cafe.

"Good to see you're on the ball today. I was just about the suggest that myself." Rya responded to Kara's actions. She then returned to addressing the rest of the group. "Okay, I don't want any complaints from you lil'uns. I want you all to at least try the toilet before we go out as we might not be stopping for a while. If any of you do need a quick pee break while we're out shopping, then let one of us know as soon as and we'll make tracks for the nearest toilet."

All the younger members that Kara had not escorted began to follow along with Rya's instructions and head on over to the toilets after Kara, Annmarie and Mary had already entered. Mary went into one of the free cubicles without complaint but Annmarie stayed near the door with Kara. The other younger members filed on in and occupied the remaining cubicles.

Eve also had complimented Kara on her own clothing too. Kara was dressed in a simple purple halter top and a pair of black shorts. A nice choice of clothing for a day like today but also keeping with the colors of her own family. Rya was happy to know that Kara was on the ball today when she suggested taking the young ones to the bathroom first before they left.

With Mary and Annmarie in tow they entered the bathroom. With Mary entering a free cubicle while Annmarie stayed by Kara's side. "I think it would be a good idea to try and use the toilet before we go." Kara suggested to Annmarie. But they'd have to wait their turn as the other younger members filed in a took the remaining cubicles.

Mary returned a little later and there was now one free cubicle Annmarie could use. "Here's your chance?" Kara reached down and placed a hand upon Annmarie bottom. Then gently tried to urge her forwards towards the free cubicle.

Kara, catching on to Annmarie's reluctance to enter the toilet cubicles, assured her that it would be worthwhile to try and go before they head off. Regardless of that, Annmarie didn't make any moves to enter the cubicles even when Mary had left hers. Kara gently urged Annmarie into the recently vacated cubicle, to which the smaller girl entered and locked the door behind her.

"She'll go when everyone else has finished." Rya informed Kara. The older members of the group had also decided to take no chances and use the toilets before setting out. "You know how much of a shy girl she is when it comes to that kind of thing. Anyway, you'd better go as well. We can't exactly set a good example for the others if we don't do as we tell them to do."

Kara entered into the free cubicle like Rya had requested. Going about her business of using the toilet. As she sat there she thought of pulling a tiny prank of using the wind to blow against someone's privates just for the fun of it. But didn't go through with the idea she did try using her ring just to get a picture of who was using the cubicle next to her.

After that she finished up and left to go stand next to the others. She looked at Rya, Mikan, Annmarie and Mary.

"Wanna hold hands when we leave?"

Giving way to her lewd side once more, Kara didn't waste the opportunity to spy on any of the girls in neighbouring cubicles to her own.

Secretly activating the power of her Ring, Kara probed who was in the cubicle to her left. It wasn't a perfect picture but Kara did get a projection from the ring itself which showed what was going on in the neighbouring Cubicle. She'd lucked upon watching Xion using the toilet. The girl had her unicorn print panties down around her ankles while she held up the base of her dress. In the small gap between her thighs Kara could faintly see her special place ejecting its pent up fluids into the toilet bowl with a gentle tinkling sound. From what she knew about Xion, the poor girl was probably bursting by the time she got a chance to go as normally, like Annmarie, she would've been too shy to pee with all these other people in the toilets as well.

Concluding her lewd session in the toilets, Kara finished up alongside the others and left Annmarie to go on her own when everyone else had finished as well. A short while after the last person left the toilets, Annmarie emerged as well. Now that everyone was together once more, the final preparations for the day ahead commenced.

"In the large fridge behind the counter there's enough water bottles for everyone present to have two on them. Don't worry about the cost, I've already cleared that with Leigh and got it put down on the Cafe's tab as expenses for the trip tomorrow. It's a hot day out there today so make sure you all drink when you need to. Myself and the other senior members will drop reminders to you forgetful lil'uns if you're all too distracted by the fun to remember. If you end up emptying both the bottles, then there's plenty of drinking fountains around town to fill 'em up again." Rya instructed the gathered group. "Now then, let's all go shopping!"

Splitting the stashed water bottles between all the gathered members didn't take long. Once everyone was outside the Cafe ready to set off, Kara offered to hold the hands of some of the younger members. Mary didn't need asking as she'd already claimed one of Kara's hands before the question was even asked. Annmarie didn't look like she'd be holding anyone's hands as the heat of the day had struck her full force when she stepped out of the Air Conditioned Cafe. She was still stubborn enough to not give in and dress lighter, but that might not last for much longer considering how much she was sweating. It was more of a matter which caved first.

The one who Kara had done the spying lewd act upon was Xion. Who was really in need of using the toilet Kara enjoyed what she saw. Having not seen Xion in an act like this before but soon turned her mind to other matters. As she returned to the others who by now had all finished up using the bathroom. Rya spoke on about water bottles for everyone and what they were to do with them. Along with having to remind the younger members, about having to stay drinking their water.

Kara took her water bottles and everyone gathered outside. Mary at this point had taken one of Kara's free hands. "Perhaps it would be a good idea to use a buddy system. Assigning each lil'un a buddy who looks out for them over the course of the day?" Kara asked. It sounded like a good idea seeing as Rya was the group leader. The other senior members could pick one of the younger members to look after. If need be they could also help the other groups as well if they needed it.

"Would you like to be my buddy?" Kara asked Mary.

She then looked over at Annmarie who by now was clearly sweating. She still had not given in to change into something lighter. Kara walked over to her, and in a rare moment used a tiny bit of wind magic to blow a cool breeze over Annmarie to try and keep her cool. She then walked over to Rya.

"I think it would be best if Annmarie used this chance to change into something lighter?"

Kara suggested that the younger members buddy up with the senior members for the duration of the day.

"I'd thought of that but I didn't really think there was that much need for it. There's only four of the lil'uns and eleven of us." Rya answered. "If they want they can pair up."

Kara then asked if Mary wanted to pair up with her, which of course came with no complaints as Mary was already paired up with Kara. Noticing how Annmarie looked to be struggling with the heat, Kara used a small bit of her Powers to blow a cool breeze over her.

Kara expressed her concerns to Rya.

"Well, we've been trying all morning to get her to wear something lighter but she remains as stubborn as she can be." Rya explained with a sigh. "If you think you can convince her to change clothes, then it'll be better for all of us if you could."

Kara went over to Annmarie who even with the added. A breeze from a few moments ago was still sweating. "I think the dark lord would be pleased if you dressed in something lighter," Kara told Annmarie she pulled the young girl away from the group a couple of steps. So they can just talk between themselves.

"You know how hot its going to be today right, wouldn't it be wise to follow our advice and change?"

Kara started to try and convince Annmarie to dress lighter.

"These robes are the source of my power and my tether to this world. Were I to shed them, then my presence will be erased from this plane." Annmarie countered. "This heat...is nothing..."

"Stop being such a baby and dress lighter. Everyone can see that you're melting in all those layers." A chastising youthful voice joined in. "This 'Dark Lord' of yours must have some other stuff you can wear to remain here."

Looking to the source of the voice of reason, Xion was there talking through her Plushie companion, Ekreet.

"If you don't take 'em off, then we'll have to strip you ourselves." Ekreet continued, prompting Annmarie to take cover behind Kara. "Lookit' this."

Xion reached into her dress pocket and pulled out a small flip mobile phone. Tapping around on that, while still keeping Ekreet in the position he was in before, Xion pulled up a short clip of an atypical Children's cartoon show. The clip included the "Dark Lord's Servant", who wore very similar clothes to the kind Annmarie was wearing that day, being engulfed in Darkness before 'Powering up' into a form with much less clothing on.

"See, Annie? Wearing less clothes gives you more power in weather like this." Ekreet concluded. "Even you agree, don't you, Acolyte of the Dark Lord?"

Ekreet's question was aimed at Kara, to which Annmarie turned to for confirmation that Xion wasn't just trying to strip her for the sake of it.

"I can promise you that your presence won't be erased from this plane," Kara stated. She was speaking normally not trying to role play at this time. "I don't believe that for a second."

A youthful voice then joined in looking for the source. Kara found it came from Xion and her plushie Ekreet. Who tried to help out with Annmarie with trying to change her clothes. The small girl hid behind Kara before Xion pulled out a small flip phone and showed them a small clip from a cartoon show for children. They both watched the clip play itself out before being asked a question.

"I will have to agree, don't you want to be more powerful then you've ever been before?"

Kara confirmed what Ekreet had suggested and, in no time at all, Annmarie was full on quoting the lines from that scene word for word until uttering the final words of "Magic - RELEASE!" and yanking off the dress she was wearing, leaving her standing there in just her lilac panties and vest. Naturally, the other senior staff members were drawn to the commotion of Annmarie's quoting and were now scrambling around trying to find where they'd put her change of clothes while simultaneously keeping her from being seen by others. Xion was actually giggling away at the whole display.

Eventually, through lots of teamwork, Annmarie was dress much more suitably in a thin lilac casual blouse and a matching tartan skirt.

"No idea how you managed it, but next time could you give us a little warning when she's stripping off?" Rya congratulated Kara with a chuckle. Turning her attention back to Annmarie, Rya gently flicked the younger girl's forehead. "And you can stop being so difficult as well. Are n't yo u much cooler now than you were before?" Annmarie simply nodded in agreement while rubbing the point she was flicked.

Very shortly after Kara's agreement, Annmarie started putting on a scene. With her quoting lines and then yanking off her dress in public no less. Leaving her just standing there in her vest and underwear. This drew over the other staff members who were drawn to the commotion going on. Everyone scrambled to find something for her to wear while Kara helped out. Though she did enjoy seeing Annmarie in her underwear and thanked Xion for her help who giggled during the whole display.

"I had a little help, but I didn't know she'd do something like this," Kara said.

With Annmarie in her new clothes, she took Annmarie's hand and led. Her back to the group and once again took Mary's hand. While offering her land free one to Annie if she so, wanted it.

"Guess the heat must've sizzled her brain a little." Rya responded with a shrug. "I take it this one here helped you out?" She asked as she patted Xion's head. "Either way, at least she's dressed more for the weather now so we won't have to worry about heat stroke, assuming she doesn't have anything against water."

With everything now fully sorted for the shopping trip, Kara and the others returned to the route they'd set to head into town. Mary remained with Kara but Annmarie had already joined up with Mia and Xion, unofficially pairing up with them. Tama was with the Squirrel Twins and the rest of the group were all intermingled. It wasn't a quite trip into the city centre by no stretch of the imagination, but it was very fitting for the Cafe girls as a whole and everyone looked to be enjoying themselves. Eventually, they'd reached the main Shopping Centre and everyone went on in to the cool air conditioned building. Rya immediately went on over to the map and looked over where all the shops were to plan the route they'd take.

"Yes, Xion here was the one who helped me out," Kara answered. For her part, she also patted Xion on the head and everything was sorted out. Everyone was paired up with someone Annie had gone to pair with Mia and Xion leaving Kara alone with Mary. With everyone intermingled within the group. They headed into the city and everyone was enjoying themselves.

Kara while enjoying her time alone with Mary decided to ask the girl. How she was currently fairing.

"How, are holding up do you want some water or need the restroom?" Kara asked. As they then reached the main shopping center and walked into the building feeling. The cool air blow on them was refreshing. "If you also need help changing just let me know okay?" Kara wanted to make sure everything went okay for Mary and there were no problems.

Rya went to look over the map, this left Kara then chance to speak to. Mikan, Eve or Olivia but she wasn't sure about who to go to first?

Once they reached the shopping centre, Kara checked in with Mary to see if she needed anything.

"I don't think I need anything." Mary responded, puzzling over whether she was certain that was the case. "I've been making sure to drink when I feel thirsty." True enough, Mary had gone through nearly half of her first 500ml bottle of water. "I'll let you know if I feel like I need to go."

When Rya went off to check the map, Kara thought over who she should speak to next. She was torn between either Mikan, Eva or Olivia. It looked like Rya will be back soon enough as she'd already cross referenced a lot of the named stores with their locations on the map, so Kara had enough time to quickly check in with only one person.

Mary was puzzled over whether she needed anything or not. Kara saw that she had gone through with almost half of her first 500ml water bottle. Kara herself had done just as much with her own. "Okay," Kara responded as she was now torn on who to speak with she didn't have much time and could only pick one person.

Kara finally picked the person to speak with, she headed over to Mikan. "How are you holding up?" Kara asked. As she waited for a reply back to her question she took a seat upon a nearby bench. Letting Mary sit upon her lap if she so wished to do so. In the meantime Kara was thinking about what she should do. A couple of times stray thoughts had entered her mind of blowing up someone's skirt.

But was unsure of to actually go through with the act. And who to do the deed upon if she really wished to go through with it all. As Kara thought on this she asked Mikan one more question.

"Does Rya visit the stores here often?"

Kara eventually came to a decision on who she wanted to speak with. Going over to Mikan, Kara asked an evident icebreaker question.

"Shouldn't you be worrying more about the little ones rather than me? I'm doing okay, thanks." Mikan responded.

Kara then took a seat at a nearby bench, to which Mary saw the open lap and quickly populated it. Afterwards, Kara asked if Rya visited this shopping centre often.

"We do go shopping from time to time but we mostly order in as we've not got that much free time to go walking around trying stuff on." Mikan explained. "We've been here a couple of times but it's been a while since we last looked around like we will today."

"On a day like today, everyone matters to me," Kara answered.

While on the bunch Mary, quickly took her spot upon Kara's lap. She took a couple of quick moments to tickle Mary's sides by playing with her. As she spoke with Mikan in the time that remained.

"What sort of things do you guys normally order in?" Kara asked. Wishing to learn more about both girls. "When you had come here before were there any specific shops you liked to visit?"

"We usually order in stuff like food and other necessities. Clothing we only buy on occasion or if we really need to." Mikan explained while Kara tickled Mary's side, causing the girl on her lap to giggle and squirm around. "We did visit a lot of the clothing shops for things which would've been rather embarrassing to order online, so I guess those could be counted as places we liked to visit?"

Following the short break, Rya returned to the group with a plan of what order to visit the shops in. The first store was on the ground floor and off towards the back of the entrance area. Rejoining with the others, Rya led the way to the first store.

Kara wondered what other necessities they would have ordered. While she also enjoyed her little tickle fun with Mary which. Made the young girl giggle and squirm on her lap, Kara looked towards Annmarie and thought of trying to interact with her later. "Surely clothing stores are not the only places you like visiting?" Kara asked. She then thought about what sort of embarrassing types of clothes Rya and Mikan would find embarrassing.

The break ended when Rya returned and told them all her plan. They all headed towards the first store on the first floor.

"They're all I can think of off the top of my head. There's other places I've been but I'd have to think on that one." Mikan corrected.

The group headed off towards the first clothing store, which turned out to be a place which sold all trendy clothes for children. The largest size the store went up to was 12-13yrs, so this store was potentially more for the younger Cafe members rather than the older ones.

Navigating the store to find the Season clothes, the group looked at the wares on display and left the younger members to choose whatever ones took their fancy. Annmarie and Xion didn't seem too enthused by the prospect of picking swimwear, much to the contrast of Tama and Mary, whom were comparing their preferences and seeing if they could find a matching set for each of them.

The group arrived at the first clothing store. They walked around the store until they found the wares on display for this seasons clothes. Kara let Mary go and look at the swimwear who began speaking with Tama. Kara even went about helping out in finding something for Annmarie. She walked around the area keeping an eye out for something which would suit a servant of the dark lord.

At the same time Kara even went with trying to find something that Mary would like. She walked over to Rya for a moment. "Any ideas of a cute color that would suit Annie or Mary?" Kara asked.

Stopping by the first store, Kara helped the younger members find suitable swimwear. Tama and Mary looked to be sorting each other out nicely, which just left the more timid members of the group staying in the background. Neither Xion or Annmarie were interacting much with the varying styles of cute swimsuits on display. Unsure of what style would be best matched with their personalities, Kara asked Rya if she had any recommendations for Annmarie or Mary.

"The best colours for them are, of course, their apron colours in the Cafe! There's more to the colour than to indicate what personality they have. Darker colours suit Annie best because it brings out the charm of her fair complexion and bright eyes. Lighter colours go better with Mary's adorableness and fluffy hair. Mary wants to match with Tama so she won't pick anything that won't look nice on Tama." Rya explained. "Why not ask the girls what kind of things they're looking for?"

Helping out the younger members Kara found both. Tama and Mary to be sorted each other out nicely. While the timid members stayed in the background and Xion and Annmarie not really interacting much with the various styles of swimsuits. Unsure on how to help them out she asked Rya for help. Who helped her out by offering some ideas of what to look for and how to ask.

Kara first walked over to Annmarie and used this chance to speak with her. "Would you like some help in finding a swimsuit that would suit the servent of the dark lord?"

Kara went over to Annmarie to help her pick out a swimsuit while the other younger members sorted themselves out.

"If such an object exists in this store full of tiny pieces of fabric then it would be appreciated." Annmarie responded.

By now Mary and Tama had already found a matching set which they liked and took themselves into one of the changing rooms to try them on. Xion was still rather undecided on everything but was being helped out by Mia and Mikan.

"Then let's search together to see if such an object exists." Kara suggested.

Reaching over she took Annmarie's hand and began. Looking through the various swimsuits that were on display that would suit someone like Annie. "What sort of things are you looking for?" While she was looking for any sort of purple swimsuit she thought would look cute on her younger friend.

Kara looked through the swimsuits with Annmarie and asked what kind she was looking for.

"I want one which would protect me from the flames of purgatory in the sky." Annmarie answered. Translating her speech across, the closest fit to what she was looking for would be a one-piece swimsuit.

Perusing through the cute selection of varying styles and patterns on the swimsuits, Kara found a selection which might be the kind Annmarie was looking for. There were a total of 4 different one-piece swimsuits which would fit Annmarie's preferences. All that remained now was her trying them on and finding one which she thought was best. As Tama and Mary were still getting changed, the rooms were currently occupied so Annmarie waited her turn.

Going with Annmarie's request Kara began helping her search. Going for something that would suit someone like her. She found a total of 4 different swimsuits which fit Annie's preferences and went to the changing room with her. But they had to wait their turn as Mary and Tama were busy getting changed.

Deciding to try and have a little lewd fun of her own, Kara tried to use the ring to peek inside one of the occupied rooms.

Instead of waiting patiently in line Kara decided to peek in on the girls getting changed using the power of her Ring. To her alone the curtains over one the openings to the changing rooms became see-through and Kara was treated to the half-naked form of Mary pulling up the swimsuit she'd picked out. Unfortunately, she still had her underwear on as per the common courtesy for trying on swimsuits. Even so, all was not for nought as Kara still got to see the cutesy underwear that Mary was wearing. Her view was soon cut off though as Mary slipped on the swimsuit and checked herself out in the mirror.

Shortly after Kara's perving, Mary and Tama exited the changing rooms to show off their chosen outfits. They were identical in make and style but were different colours. The base style was fruit patterned. Mary's one was a base orange with small red cherries all over it and Tama's was pink with red strawberries patterned across it. They appraised each other, liked how the outfits looked on them and decided to settle on them as being their primary choice. The duo went back into the changing rooms and changed back into their regular clothes, freeing up spaces for Annmarie and Xion to try their outfits on.

The lewd fun gave Kara the chance to see a half-naked Mary. As she pulled up her swimsuit this let her watch for a small bit. Before she cut off the rings power just before Mary and Tama exited the changing rooms. Now giving Kara the chance to see fully the ones that both girls had picked out. One had cherries upon it and the other one had a strawberry pattern across it. Kara commented on them saying they looked cute on both girls but not picking one that was her favorite.

Annmarie and Xion then entered and Kara waited on seeing what their choices were.

Kara waited on Annmarie and Xion to change into their swimsuits. Although, it likely wasn't going to be as easy for them to pick preferences as it was for Tama and Mary. It took the two a little longer to emerge from the changing rooms, likely more from embarrassment than anything else. Their first choice of swimsuits were shown to the group.

Kara recognised the lilac swimsuit which she believed would look well on Annmarie. True enough the colours and the light floral pattern on it did really suit Annmarie, but perhaps there were cuter ones she could have? In contrast to the more mature appearance of Annmarie's, Xions was a light blue with a yellow star pattern all over it. It did look incredibly good on her.

"Hmmm, you both look super cute but I think there could be others which might look better?" Rya commented on their attire.

The other two girls rejoined them and Kara noticed Annmarie's swimsuit. To be the one she believed would really suit her. She was wearing a lilac colored one with a small light floral pattern on it. As Xion was wearing a light blue one with a yellow star on it, once again both girls did look super cute.

"What do you two think?" Kara asked.

Directing her question to both Annmarie and Xion.

Kara asked the girls what they thought of their attire. Of course, neither of them were too keen on being seen in what could be likened to glorified underwear but they did have their own opinions on the matter. They looked at each other's swimsuits and entered on of the changing rooms together. After some shuffling around inside the changing room, they returned wearing each other's chosen swimsuits. The change up between the two did reveal that they looked much better in the swimsuit the other was wearing. The rest of the group agreed as well so the last of the votes was left to Kara to decide what looked best. Regardless, the two girls retu rned back into their respective changing rooms and put on their regular attire once more.

Placing the other swimsuits back on their racks they rejoined the group with their choice of swimsuits in arms. The group's business in this shop was concluded as the four younger members all had their swimsuits. Proceeding with the purchases at the counter, they went off in search of their next sto p.

After having tried on the other's swimsuit and the majority of the group. Agreeing that they looked better on the other girl. Which left Kara as the one to decide what to do as the last vote was hers to give. Kara agreed that the swimsuits that Annmarie and Xion were wearing now were the best. Soon enough everything was taken care of and their business at the first store was done. They purchased their stuff at the counter then proceeded to the next stop to look around.

The second store on the list was a high fashion store on the second floor of the shopping centre. It carried all of the most fas hionable brands that were in the market and had price tags on them to match. Nothing in the store was cheap, that was for sure, and it was doubtful that anybody had the money on them to afford what was being sold. They were probably only here to see what styles were 'in' at the moment.

Natural ly, Rya and Eve carried the highest interest in what was being sold and hastily went over to the teens section to peruse the attire present.

The next store was a super high fashion store. That carried a bunch the most fashionable brands but the prices were very high. Not very many if not anyone would be able to buy something here. Rya and Eve quickly went over to the teen section to see want was present. Kara went over to join them just to see if there was anything that would catch her own interest.

Out of pure curiosity more than anything else, Kara went along with Eve and Rya to check out the fashionable swimsuits. Navigating through the various aisles of different types of attire, the trio reached their destination and began looking through what was there.

Aside from various Bikini styles that looked rather provocative there were also a good deal of Pareo type swimsuits and a small amount of one-pieces. The one-pieces weren't the cutesy kind that they'd seen in the previous store but rather styles that covered what they needed to and also hugged the form of the wearer close, accentuating any curves that they might have. From first glances alone it appeared that teen-wear was set to be as alluring as possible.

Kara looked through the various swimwear that was on display. She wasn't sure herself what she truly wanted in a swimsuit. Something along the lines of suiting her tastes with a mix of black and violet colors added into the mix. While the one-piece suits weren't as cutesy like in the last store they appeared to be more alluring. Kara looked through the teen wear just for something that might even be better then what Eve or Rya would pick out.

Kara perused the swimsuits alongside the other girls and decided to focus on finding one which could best even Rya and Eve's tastes. Knowing that the pair normally went for as alluring, while also modesty preserving, as possible, the only way Kara could top that would be to go all out on the alluring front and throw her modesty aside.

On the 'lack of modesty' front there was a particular swimsuit which was a low-cut bikini that covered what it needed and still left enough material for it to be legal. Eve could probably pull it off but it was doubtful that Rya would even think of wearing something so revealing.

Kara decided to try and find something else to suit her needs. Not believing that the low-cut bikini she had found would look good on her. She still looked for something in the colors she wanted but now wanted a swimsuit that had a 'darkness' like theme or just color of black that she'd like. This moved her closer to Eve who was still busy looking for something of her own.

"Any luck on finding anything?" Kara asked.

Putting aside the idea of wearing a revealing swimsuit, Kara looked over the others for a different one which would suit her taste. The selection of darker swimsuits which the store stocked varied from plain dark colours up to designs of dark decorations over medium coloured swimsuits. The most notable ones she could pick out were a Black Bikini with white lacy frills around the hems, and a dark grey one-piece swimsuit decorated with a black flower pattern.

The change in what swimsuits she was looking for moved her a little closer to Eve.

"There are some nice looking designs, but the cost is a little too high. Hopefully there'll be similar ones elsewhere at a more affordable price." Eve answered. "What about you? Found any ones you like yet?"

Kara found two swimsuits that did suit her tastes. One being a bikini and the other a one-piece swimsuit while they both looked nice Kara. Liking the bikini one over the one-piece, she didn't go and take them. Since once again the prices were too high to Kara's liking she then moved on to speak with Eve.

"A couple but the prices are too high, so I'm in the same boat as you. Wishing that similar ones could be found at another store." Kara says. "Oh, I found something you might like." Kara then showed Eve to the one that she had seen earlier. Which was the really revealing one that Eve might be able to pull off.

During her talk with Eve, Kara commented on the swimsuit she'd seen earlier and showed it to Eve.

"Well...this certainly is something." Eve responded once she saw the skimpiness of the attire.

"Anyway, the price is a little too high." Eve concluded as she returned to looking at the other swimsuits for a little while longer.

They remained in the store for a couple more minutes until Rya announced they'd be heading to their next stop. Back into the main store once more, Rya lead the way to their next destination, which looked to be an average everyday clothing store.

Eve saw the swimsuit that Kara had seen earlier. "That maybe true but I think you'd look good in it." Kara commented. As she began to think about just how Eve would look if she were to wear something like this.

Overall Eve still thought the price was too high and the group. Left the store heading over to an average looking clothing store. As they were walking Kara moved closer to Olivia "Have you been able to find anything that you liked?" Kara asked.

As Eve examined the swimsuit, Kara was certain she detected the faintest blush on her face. For all of her eye-catching behaviour, Eve was still very much a fair maiden who could get embarrassed as well. Kara also tried to picture how Eve would look wearing it in her head but had to stop before she got too invested. Eve certainly drew attention even in the blandest of clothes, so wearing something as provocative as that Swimsuit would likely be too much for most people to bear.

Moving on to the next store, Kara asked Olivia if she'd found anything yet.

"While the swimwear in the store we just visited looked nice, they weren't the kind I'd prefer to wear. This next store has more of the kind I would like in it, however I'm also willing to hold back on picking until we've checked every store." Olivia answered as they entered the next store.

Once inside, everyone filed off to the Seasonal section and started looking through the swimsuits on offer.

On their way to the next store, Kara spoke with Olivia.

"What is it that you'd prefer?" Kara asked.

The all entered inside and everyone made their way. To the seasonal section and began to look around Kara once again looked for something. Similar to what she had found in the last store.

"I'm not one for showy outfits. As long as it serves its purpose then it's good enough." Olivia answered.

Kara looked around at the swimsuits with the others hoping to find something similar to the kind she saw in the previous store. There were similar outfits but none that looked the exact same. The prices are much more affordable so more people were inclined to try on the outfits.

Kara found similar outfits that she had wanted. But they didn't look the same Kara picked out two of them and looked around for Eve and Rya. She soon found them again and went to ask a question. "Can you two help me for a few minutes, I'd like your honest opinions as which one of these two suits would you think would look good one me?" Kara asked.

Selecting the closest two swimsuits she could to the ones she saw in the previous store, Kara went in search of Eve and Rya to ask for their advice on the matter.

"Won't know until you try them on." Rya responded. "I think the changing rooms are free at the moment so we'll head along with you if you're trying them on now."

Looking closer at the two swimsuits Kara had picked, she had the choice between a purple and black Bikini, with the base colour being purple and the black being on the decorative hems, or a plain dark blue one-piece swimsuit with a small diamond pattern across it in a slightly lighter shade of blue.

Kara went into the changing rooms with Rya and Eve after. Telling them she was going to try them on when she found an empty room. She closed the door behind her and took a closer look at both swimsuits one was a bikini and the other was a one-piece. She tried the one-piece on first after getting undressed then. Went out to show the other two before doing the samething with the bikini. Once this was done she redressed and rejoined the others "so what do you guys think?" Kara asked.

Kara tried on each of the swimsuits in turn and showed Rya and Eve how they looked on her. The pair instructed her to follow through with a couple of turns so they could see how it looked from every angle. No final answer was given until Kara had finished changing back into her regular clothes.

"I guess it falls down to personal preference." Eve concluded when asked. "The one-piece appears more reserved and mature while also bringing more attention to your whole body. The Bikini, on the other hand, is more daring and draws the attention more to your upper body."

"One-piece is better. A lot of the other girls will go for one pieces as well so you'd match well with them. Also, Bikinis mean you need to slap more sunscreen on or face some embarrassing sunburn lines." Rya evaluated.

Both Eve and Rya voiced their opinions on the swimsuits. Kara had shown to them when she had changed into them. "I like the design of the bikini more, but don't want to suffer from embarrassing sunburns. Or having people stare at my upper body all day, the one-piece looks nice and it is better as you say to be more reserved and the attention of blending in with everyone suits me fine." Kara explained.

In the end the picked the one-piece for herself and went over to the cashier to make the purchase.

Kara decided on the One-piece after hearing the opinions of the other and proceeded with her purchase. While she may have picked what she wanted, the other members of the group were as yet undecided. As she headed back to rejoin them, she saw Mia, Felicity, Florence and Kate head on over to the changing rooms to try on their choices. From what Kara remembered, there were only three cubicles so, by process of elimination, Felicity and Florence were likely sharing one. The younger members still had chaperones so Kara could slip away if she wanted to...

With the others undecided and still busy looking for what they wanted. Kara spoke a few of the others heading for the changing rooms. That left the younger members with their chaperones Kara didn't have much to do so she. Did slip away but didn't head to the changing rooms to spy on the others. Instead she looked for someone to have a little fun with one of the others or just a random stranger. She gave a look for someone who was by themselves and away from groups of people.

Kara observed how the patrons of the shop were spread out.

She had somewhat of a choice of whom to play pranks on. Tama was close to the changing rooms but didn't have Mary or the other girls with her. Instead, she looked to be waiting on when Felicity and Florence finished changing so she could see their swimsuits. Mary was off in the children's clothes section looking at the various outfits available there in the summer selection. Nobody was with her but she was still being watched by Mikan every now and then. Xion and Annmarie were together in the Children's section as well but looking at more of the dressier clothes rather than the dress down ones that Mary was perusing. They were also under watch but mostly left to their own devices unless they needed something.

There may have been a few of the older members by themselves but it'd take more planning to catch them unaware.

Kara observed the others on what they all were currently doing. She saw how Tama was by herself near the changing rooms. Mary was off in the children's section, Mikan kept an eye on her from time to time. Xion and Annmarie were together in the children's area as well. Thinking of who to prank Kara decided upon Tama Kara called upon her wind magic to playfully make it feel like something had touched the young girls behind. Then watched the results while canceling the magic altogether.

Kara then went looking for Mikan.

Kara chose to try and playfully prank Tama by causing a stray gust of wind to brush against her rear. The sudden feeling caused the young girl to jump a little in surprise as both hands went straight to her rump to try and catch what had touched her. Grasping at nothing more than her own rear, Tama looked behind her and around her to see what might've touched her. When she realised that nothing was there, she put it down to just her own imagination and continued to wait but remained a little more vigilant in case it happened again. Pranking her a second time would be harder.

Following a successful tease with Tama, Kara went looking for Mikan. It wasn't difficult as she'd already seen her before watching over the younger members. Mikan was over by the one-piece swimsuits.

After the playful teasing of Tama, Kara went to find Mikan. During her short journey, Kara listened with her ears just to see if anyone. Was talking about anything interesting that might catch her interest.

She then found Mikan looking around the one-piece swimsuits. "Find anything you like?" Kara asked once she joined her.

On her way over to Mikan, Kara listened out to see if anybody was discussing anything interesting.

There was some chatter about the excitement and anticipation that the Cafe members were feeling in regards to the outing the following day. Most of it was all expected stuff however some parts did catch her interest. As she passed by Annmarie and Xion, Kara overheard them talking about some interesting things.

A: "So...we've got out swimsuits but..."

X: "But what?"

A: "Aren't one-pieces harder to...you know..."

X: "What do you mean?"

A (Whispering) : "To move aside when you need to use the girls' room."

X (Whispering) : "You're right there..."

Both girls were visibly blushing now.

X: "Are we gonna be wearing them on the trip over or change into them when we reach the park?"

A: "I don't know, but I'm hoping we'll get a chance to change into them there. The trip there is meant to be a couple of hours so..."

X: "...yeah...now that you mention it it might be better to change into them there."

A: "If worst comes to worse...um...I don't wanna think about it."

X: "I don't think they're as good on the inside as they are on the outside, so that'll be a bad idea."

If Kara lingered any longer they'd get suspicious so she quickly made her way over to Mikan.

"I'm not as clued up on what's fashionable as Rya is." Mikan admitted. "What I think looks good might not be 'fashionable'."

Before reaching Mikan Kara had listened in to the small chat. Happening between Annmarie and Xion she overheard a few interesting things. She wanted to linger around more to hear more about their current chat. But didn't want to be discovered so she moved on. Now once again with Mikan who still had not found anything yet.

"Do, you want some help finding something and when you. Look at all these swimsuits what is it that you're looking for?" Kara asked.

Kara offered assistance and asked if she was looking for anything in particular.

"I'd rather have function over how it looks. As long as it serves its purpose as a swimsuit it's good for me." Mikan responds. "I don't want anything too showy so one-pieces would be better."

From what Mikan was looking at, the designs on the swimsuits she liked looked more suited for children than for a near teenager.

"One-pieces it is then." Kara answered.

Kara looked through the swimsuits seeing many of the designs. Being better suited for children then someone Mikan's age. Going on what she knew about Mikan in general Kara tried to find a swimsuit that had a dancing-type of theme or something like a cat. "What sort of colors do you like?" Kara asked.

Kara looked through the swimsuits on the racks for any designs which she thought Mikan might like. There were a couple of cat designs with the two most prominent ones being a variation of the same base style.

The first was a light teal swimsuit with slightly darker blue hems. Spread across the swimsuit as a whole was a set of smaller images of the a cartoon cat taking part in different beach activities, creating an alternating pattern of images.

The second design had a base colour of yellow with teal hems and a large design of the cartoon cat from the previous one in the centre of the swimsuit's front. Covering the rest of the swimsuit were small pawprint patterns that matched the colouring on the central cat.

Both of the designs were incredibly childish and would possibly be popular with children around Mary and Tama's age range rather than someone Mikan's age.

"I like brighter colours. Orange is one I really like." Mikan responded.

Finding something that would suit Mikan's needs. Was growing rather hard since while she did find two swimsuits the fit under the cat theme. They had a more childish nature to them then someone Mikan's age. "Any other colors you really like besides orange?" Kara asked as she shifted her search to orange swimsuits that fitted Mikan's age range.

"I like yellow and light blue as well." Mikan answered.

Kara disregarded the swimsuits she'd seen before and went searching for more appropriate ones. She moved over to the young teens section and looked through the one-pieces on display there. There were a couple of ones that matched Mikan's colour preferences but the main question was whether they'd fit her or not. Mikan was rather petite, after all, which was potentially why she started looking in the children's section before the teens section.

With the other two colors Mikan told her she liked. Kara expanded her search to include those as well she was able to find a couple that. Matched Mikan's color preferences and picked those out. Kara didn't know if they'd fit Mikan or not but walked over to her to show her the ones that she had picked.

"Are these okay with you?" Kara asked.

Kara collected up the swimsuits that matched Mikan's colour preferences and showed them to her.

"I guess I won't know until I try them on." She answered, sounding a little hesitant at the prospect of changing into such attire. "I don't know if the changing rooms are free or not."

Mikan accepted the offered selection of swimsuits which totalled at around 4 different styles of one-pieces. Some had patterns on while the others were just a plain single colour swimsuit. She went on over to the changing rooms and waited for one of them to become available. Once one did, she occupied the cubicle and pulled the curtain over the doorway.

Kara caught on that Mikan was a tad hesitant to change into the swimsuits. "That's usually the best option." Kara said. She followed along with Mikan to the changing rooms and waited outside as Mikan walked into one to use. While she waited she looked around the store to see if any of the others needed help on anything.

As she waited for Mikan to get changed, Kara looked around to see if anybody else needed help. From what she could tell, nobody needed any assistance with anything and the majority of the people around were looking to have finished perusing the wares this shop offered.

Noboby needed any sort of assistance with anything. So Kara just remained waiting on Mikan until she was finished up. Using the small amount of free time she had Kara decided to check in with the others at home just to inform them that she was doing okay. With her friends from work and asked how everything was going at home.

Kara to Lilly: 'How's everything going over there, is Haley still feeling better are you and Holly doing okay? I'm doing fine just doing a little shopping with my friends from work.'

She sent the text and then texted Kiki.

Kara to Kiki: 'How are you doing feeling any better?'

While she waited, Kara sent some texts to people.

Lilly's response: 'Haley's acting like her normal self and driving Holly crazy with how bored she keeps saying she is. I've kept a close watch of her but it seemed all of that stuff was just a random bug of some kind. I'm trying to keep the two of them under control so they don't wreck the house. Seems like you've got a nice easy time.'

Kara's message to Kiki got marked as 'read' but she didn't give any response.

After the messages were sent, Mikan left the changing rooms in her regular clothes with the swimsuits she tried on in her hands.

"They were all a little too big, but not by that much. They still find, kind of, just not as close as I'd want them to." Mikan informed Kara. "We're stopping by other stores as well, so hopefully they'll have some in."

Kara got a reply back from Lilly and read what it said before replying back.

Kara to Lilly: 'Haley's just bored since I'm not there to keep her company. It's good to see that she's doing better. That must be hard too bad I wasn't there to help you out. I wouldn't really call shopping for swimsuits a easy time you know how hard it can be with finding something you'd like.'

Kara sent the text and Kara Kiki had read her text but didn't say anything. Kara made a mental note to try and stop by Charon's place again if she was free for a while. Just to check up with either Charon or Ryu to see how Kiki was doing. Mikan then returned after finishing up her little task.

"Do you prefer other's seeing what you wear and giving their opinions. To help you in picking out a swimsuit or just doing things yourself?" Kara asked. As everyone headed over to the next store.

Lilly's response: 'She's been worse before in terms of house destruction but thankfully those days are long behind her. Shopping is much easier than keeping a bored girl in check. =P As long as they fit, look semi-decent and serve their purpose then it's good enough.'

While the others started to tidy up after themselves before they went off to the next store, Kara asked Mikan about whether she wanted outside opinions on swimsuits.

"I'd rather not have anybody see me wearing something so...revealing outside of the beach or pool." Mikan replied. "As long as I like what I choose, I don't let it bother me what others think."

On the way to the next store, Rya informed the others they'd be stopping for lunch once they'd finished in it. The store they went into was a sports store. Even though the selection of swimsuits inside was limited in design compared to clothing stores, they stocked many varied sizes which regular stores wouldn't normally have.

Kara read Lilly's latest text and sent a quick reply telling her she'd check in again later. Kara thought about if she would ever get the chance to see Mikan wearing something revealing outside of the normal means. "Everyone has certain things that make them happy I guess." Kara said. She then learned that they'd all be stopping for lunch soon once they finished with the next store. They all then entered a sports store with a limited selection of swimsuits Kara once again looked for a swimsuit for Mikan with what she already knew.

Kara perused the swimsuits the sports store had to offer in hopes of finding one that Mikan liked. Unfortunately, they didn't stock the bright colours she preferred and instead had plain competition-like swimsuits in darker blues and black. One noticeable change between the way the swimsuits were sized up in this store and the previous ones were that rather than basing them on age-ranges, this store had them organised by height of the wearer and measurements akin to tailored wear. Compared to the previous shops, this store focused more on swimming as a hobby or a competitive sport rather than a summer pastime.

Once again Kara was out of luck in finding a swimsuit that Mikan liked. She was unable to find any of the bright colored ones since they weren't in stock. Only dark ones which Kara would like were on display. Kara parted ways from Mikan and walked around the store by herself just trying to kill time. In a rare move she didn't try to join anyone else letting them do their own things. If they wished to speak to her they could come to her.

Wandering around the store after finding nothing of note, Kara left the others to their own devices. Tama and Mary did stop by to talk with Kara about random things. The Squirrel twins also checked in with Kara and asked her about the kinds of things she'd been getting up to that day.

There wasn't much else to do at the Sports shop so the gathered party set off to the family restaurant they decided upon earlier. Everyone present was reminded to stop by the toilets if they needed to go as there'd be no breaks after lunch if they wanted to get everything done before they returned to the Cafe later that evening.

Here and there someone did come over to Kara and speak to her. The first was both Mary and Tama who stopped by just to talk about random things. Kara spoke back with them and at one point sat down in a chair. Thus allowing both girls to take turns sitting on her lap. Kara remained with them for a tiny bit and played with them. Both Tama and Mary sitting on Kara's lap did stir up some nice feelings and in a playful gesture. She ran a hand over their bottoms before she let them go to do other things.

At another time the squirrel twins came over. They too just wanted to talk and Kara told them what she'd done so far. Letting them know she'd helped Annmarie pick out a swimsuit, found something for herself. Had tried to help Mikan find a swimsuit as well along with how she'd played a small prank on Tama. Kara talked with them a little more before the group left the sports store and headed to a family restaurant first she helped. Gather up the younger members and headed towards the toilets.

Kara herded the younger members with her into toilets en route to the family restaurant. The rest of the group waited outside for either their turn or the others to be finished. As she might have expected from their earlier hesitance, both Annmarie and Xion insisted that they didn't need to go and didn't join the others in the toilets. Tama and Mary were easily ushered into the facilities and went about their business without complaint. Once they'd had their turns then the older members took their turns as well. Annmarie and Xion stayed out the entire time.

Once everybody excluding the difficult two had taken the opportunity to use the toilets, the party continued onwards to their place of dining. It was an offshoot of a popular franchise for family restaurants that Kara was very familiar with. The rest of the group also knew it as well. The food served there was tasty and cheap and the portion size wasn't too bad either. Every gathered around the largest table in the restaurant and started to order their selection from the menu. Seating frequently switched and changed between the younger group members as they moved around the table to sit with the others.

While the other younger members went into the toilets. Without so much as a fuss yet much like before she met the earlier hesitance. From both Annmarie and Xion once again who went with staying outside. Kara at the time remained outside with them trying to speak to them both about using the toilets here and now. But was finding it hard again and once Mary and Tama returned. Kara entered to use the toilets letting Rya and the others speak to Annie and Xion.

Once that was all taken care of the group went towards the dining place. Which was an area that Kara was very familiar with. They then all sat down at a large table and began to order their meals. As the younger group members moved to sit with others, Kara also moved around. She sat near the squirrel twins this time and let whoever of the younger group or even the older group to sit beside her.

The seats were so often changing that Kara had various group members sit next to her while she was near the Squirrel Twins. The older members often stayed where they were unless the younger ones displaced them to sit near others. Once everyone had ordered, Rya got up from her seat to put the order in at the counter. The line to the counter wasn't as long as it would've been during the peak of the lunchtime rush but there was still a small amount of people waiting. During this time, the group over at the table conversed amongst themselves.

With the orders done and Rya going up to the counter to place them. Kara was allowed to converse with the squirrel twins. Just about random things once again and even spoke with the younger members seated near her. Kara just asked them random questions in the hopes of getting to know them better. At one point Kara tried to speak with Kate, Mary & Tama about trying to spend a couple of hours together just hanging out together. In a similar manner like this but just with the four of them.

In amongst the random conversations between those seated around the table, Kara asked if three specific individuals would be willing to hang out with her at another time. Mary and Tama, of course, didn't think through their other obligations and pounced on the chance. Kate, on the other hand, looked at it more rationally. If their schedules ever aligned well enough then she thought it'd be a nice change of pace from the normal. In addition to this, if Kara wanted earlier, they always had their outing the following day which they could do something similar in.

The three people Kara had asked to spend time with were for the idea. While Mary and Tama pounced on the idea. Kate gave it some more thought looking at it rationally. Seeing as how the following day they could do something similar in. Kara asked Kate if they could give it a test run just to see how things turned out. If things went for the best then they could try something like this out again later. Kara even asked Mary and Tama if they were okay with this as well.

Kara suggested they did a test run of her request during their outing tomorrow. Kate wasn't exactly sure how someone could test run time spent with another but she still agreed that it's possible. By now Rya had gotten their orders in at the counter and had returned to the table with the news that their food was on the way. A few minutes after Rya rejoined the others, their ordered drinks were bought to the table. Everyone picked out their orders from the selection of drinks and conversation quickly resumed.

Rya by now had returned and their orders drinks soon arrived. While they were picked out by the others and the chatting resumed. Kara looked over towards Annmarie and Xion and decided to secretly use the ring on Annmarie to see how she was holding up. In regards to if she would truly need the restroom soon even after avoiding using it moments ago.

After she got the results she gave a once around the restaurant looking. For anything that might seem out of place.

Curious to how Annmarie was holding out, Kara intruded on her using the power from her Ring. The interface appeared and informed her that Annmarie was putting on a strong front as her current capacity was at 64% and increasing by 4% every half an hour due to her hydration levels. Knowing this, it'll be just under an hour and a quarter before she starts struggling to hold the tides at bay.

Next, Kara looked around the Restaurant for anything unusual but found everything to be as one would expect. Nothing out of the ordinary was happening and nobody of any particular note was around. Things were as peaceful as could be.

Having found out what Annmarie's current holding capacity was. Kara was able to learn how much longer she had until. Annmarie would begin to struggle with holding what was inside of her. Kara planned one last time to try and get her to use the restroom. Before they left the restaurant. Having then looked around the area to find anything useful Kara didn't find a thing. Everything was super peaceful and Kara used the remaining time to talk with the others seated around her.

Kara came to the decision that she'd make sure Annmarie used the toilet once they'd finished their lunch. Though Annmarie's bladder was filling at a steady pace at present, the added liquid from her small cola would accelerate it a fair amount, coupled with the diuretic properties of the caffeine in the beverage. Depending on how quickly her body processes it, Annmarie's critical time would potentially be reduced somewhat.

The group's food was bought along shortly after Kara probed Annmarie and everyone was happily digging in to the junk food that filled the table.

With their food now given to them everyone began to dig in. Kara ate her food and chatted with the others. She then looked around the table at the group just looking for anyone who appeared to be on the quiet side and not saying much. Kara then tried to speak to Olivia and Eve about random things.

During the lunchtime chatter, Kara looked around the table for those who weren't as talkative as the others. As she may have expected, these individuals were always the ones who didn't do too well in social situations. Along with Annmarie and Xion being less talkative, Mia didn't engage much in the general conversations and only responded if she was the one being addressed.

Kara found three people who didn't do too well in this group chatting. Not wanting them to feel left out. Kara tried chatting with each of them both being Annmarie and Xion and Mia as well. It was a tad bit of hard work but she tried to make it work the best that she could after a short while the groups meals were finished. Knowing this was the only chance she'd get for a while.

Kara gently took Annmarie's hand and led the small girl over to the bathroom. "I know you didn't need to go last time, but it'd be best if you tried to this time."

When everyone had finished their lunch Kara took Annmarie aside and lead her towards the toilets. In the time it took until now, Annmarie's capacity had increased to around 70%, flagging up a warning in the interface that critical capacity would soon be reached.

"I don't need to go so I won't." Annmarie retorted, ignorant that her lie was so easily seen through.

Annmarie's stubbornness came through once more, which was commendable considering how badly she did need to go. Overcoming what was preventing her from admitting to her need would take some thought and execution.

Once again Annmarie's stubborn side came into play.

"Are you really sure?" Kara asked.

She knew the truth anyway and knew that Annmarie was boldy lying in front of her. She didn't get mad at her but she tried something else.

"A true servant of the dark lord always makes sure go when they need to. As the dark lord rewards those who serve under him."

"Positive" was the simple reply that Annmarie gave to Kara's question.

Kara attempted to spin the request in a manner which she though Annmarie would respond to but it didn't have the desired effect.

"That's got nothing to do with this at all."

Giving her curt response, Annmarie stormed off back to the others, adamant that it was completely unnecessary for her to go along with Kara's request. Her aversion to using the toilets evidently had nothing to do with her usual behaviour and was likely much more deep rooted than the superficial barriers she set in place due to her personality.

Kara was left alone as Annmarie rejoined the others. She had thought that her trick might have worked and instead just upset Annmarie. So Kara walked back to the others and stayed by herself for the time being. But she did plan to keep an eye on Annmarie since she wouldn't last very long. The group then headed towards the next shop on their trip.

Continuing with the shopping trip, the group set off towards a Pharmacist to pick up some sunscreen and other UV Protection items. Rya compared the brands between each other and consulted some of the older people present for what their opinions were. The younger members, on the other hand, looked around at other things. Annmarie and Xion stayed off to one side watching the other younger members mess around.

Now that they reached the pharmacist to pick up sunscreen. Rya went about with her own business of comparing brands and talking ith the others. Two of the younger members were messing around while the other two stayed off to the side watching. Still by herself Kara stood near the opening of the store. Keeping a small eye on the others but overall just killing time.

Staying off on her own as well, Kara watched the others and waited until their business in the Pharmacist was concluded. After some deliberating, the choice of sunscreen was decided and Rya went off to purchase a number of the brand she decided upon. Annmarie and Xion looked to be talking between themselves but Kara was too far away to hear what they were saying. Tama and Mary, realising the group had finished inside the store, headed towards the entrance to wait outside while Rya concluded the purchases. A few minutes later everyone was together once more and they set off towards their second to last stop.

The store they arrived at next was an accessory store that had lots of sunglasses and sunhats on display. Tama and Mary split off from the group to try on various combinations of the sunhats and sunglasses playing around as they normally did. The rest of the group also dispersed throughout the store to look at the goods on sale.

Everyone pretty much was doing their own things and soon enough. They reached the accessory store not wanting to be alone this time. Kara looked for someone she could walk around the store with letting fate decide on who that would be. Turns out Kara joined up with Tama and Mary as they had split off from the group. To help keep an eye on them and play around too.

Joining up with Tama and Mary, Kara watched over the pair as they played around with mixing and matching the accessory sets in the children's section. Less time was spent in this store compared to the other ones as the majority of people already had at least one pair of sunglasses and a sunhat so this stop was just to pick up stuff for the few that didn't have them.

Grouping together for their last stop on the trip, everyone set off towards the store that Kara suggested earlier. Annmarie and Xion both lagged behind the rest of the group a little but were able to catch up before most people noticed.

Only a little time was spent in this current store. Kara used this chance to pick up her own sunhat and sunglasses. Still watching over the others as she was everyone then left the store and headed to the last one. Being the store Kara had mentioned at the start of the day. Once inside the store, the groups broke off again and looked around. This store sold a wide range of swimsuits ranging from just the right price to a little more expensive. There was a children's section for the younger members and a teen section as well.

The swimsuits on display were the current fashions that. Might suit someone of the current age range and on this trip Kara joined up with Olivia to look around.

Arriving at the last store on the list, the group dispersed once more and this time Kara went around the store with Olivia. The rest of the collective were perusing what was on offer, including those who'd previous decided upon swimwear. The range of prices and styles available did help to make it easier to find something for everyone at an affordable price.

Those yet to decide on swimsuits did find some they liked from the selection and went to try them on in the changing rooms. The only people who weren't present at the moment were Mikan, Xion and Annmarie, but despite this nobody seemed to be concerned about their disappearance. Nearing five minutes after Mikan and the younger two dropped off the radar, the trio returned to the store. Xion and Annmarie looked a lot happier than they did before and they returned to looking around at the swimsuits on offer.

Since she had already picked up something for herself earlier. Kara helped Olivia pick something out for herself if she still had not picked one up yet. In the meantime she tried chatting with her to learn more about her. During the time in the store Kara had lost track of Annmarie, Xion and Mikan as she couldn't see them anywhere. 5 minutes later the three of them returned to the store. With the younger two members looking happier than they had been before.

At one point Kara broke off from Olivia and went to look. In the accessory section for something that one of the younger members might. Enjoy playing around with in the pools the next day.

Kara and Olivia talked between themselves as they browsed the store for its wares. Olivia hadn't decided on a swimsuit before entering the store, but did eventually pick out a suitably plain looking one-piece by the time they'd looked around.

As Olivia went to finalise her purchase, Kara split off from her to look at the accessories on sale to see if there was anything that the younger members would enjoy playing with the following day. Of course, there were water guns and various inflatables which could be picked up that some of them would enjoy.

Kara picked out a couple of water guns and two of the various inflatables. That were currently on display thinking that some of the younger members. Would enjoy them the next day she went over and paid for them. Then walked outside and waited for everyone else to finish up a short while later everyone was finished and they all began. Walking back to the cafe together to get things ready for the evening ahead.

Finalising the last purchases of their venture, the party went back to the Cafe to pack their stuff for the following day. Once they arrived back at the Cafe, the time was nearing 4pm.

"You're back sooner than I thought you'd be." Leigh commented from behind the counter. By the looks of things, she'd just finished packing drinks and stuff for the outing. "Your rooms for the evening are all marked up so head on in and sort your packing out. We've got an early start tomorrow."

"When did you expect us to be at?" Kara asked. As they all walked into the cafe together to see that Leigh was busy finishing up packing drinks. "What time will we be leaving tomorrow?" After Kara got her answer she let the others lead her to where her room was marked. Then opened the door and walked inside with her roommates, Kara looked around the room and set her stuff down in a corner.

"Before we start to sort out our packing does anyone need to use the bathroom?"

"I thought you'd be at least another hour or so, considering how long it takes any of the Pinks to get ready in the morning. They treat picking clothes as a war fought on a battlefield." Leigh commented with a teasing smile. "We'll be heading out really early in the morning so best get to bed early unless you want to be tired."

Kara went off to her assigned room with the roommates she'd have for that evening. The group dispersed and began to stash away their purchases with what they'd gathered up earlier that day for packing. Kara asked if anybody needed to take a break before getting started on their packing.

"I think they'll be fine." Rya responded. "The toilet's just down the hall after all."

"Maybe I should have offered to help Eve a little more than," Kara says. Not really knowing the meaning behind Leigh's teasing smile. She was then told they would be heading out early the next morning and the get to bed early.

"I'll keep that in mind."

Kara then went off to her assigned room with the others. Once inside of the room she gave it a look around to see what it had to offer. Before beginning to put her own purchases away and then getting ready with packing for the following day. Just after Rya had told her everything would be fine with those who she had asked if they needed a break.

"What time should we all turn in for the night. But also have should we handle sleeping arrangements?"

Kara had a small feeling one or two of the smaller girls would like to share a bed with her.

Kara assessed the room she'd be boarding in with the others that evening. The room itself was fairly large, around twice the size of a normal dorm room, and had four bunk-beds split between the two side walls. In the centre of the room was a long coffee table that rested close to the ground. Along either side of the coffee table were four cushions spread evenly down its length. At the far back of the room stood a sizeable pair of wardrobes, which were presently open and empty.

"You think we'll be sleeping tonight?" Rya chuckled. "Does sleeping ever happen at a Sleepover? We'll talk and play all night until we pass out asleep on the beds."

Kara prompted the question about sleeping arrangements.

"There are four of us older girls, and four younger ones, so I think I know how we'll be splitting up." Kate interjected. "The little ones will go on the bottom bunks and we'll spread ourselves out over the top ones. I think that'll make the most sense."

Kara had looked around the room to see what it had to offer. There were four bunk-beds between the two side walls. At the center of the room was a coffee table and four cushions were spread evenly around it. Then over at the sizeable pair of wardrobes that were open and empty. She went over to the one closest to her and put away the things she'd bought along with what she packed away for the following day.

"We have to sleep at some point it'd be bad to stay up all night," Kara told her.

The thought of playing brought a small grin to her face. Maybe she could have some of her own personal fun. Kate then told her about how they'd use all the beds with the older girls on top while the younger ones took the bottom bunks. Kara went over to one of the beds beside her and placed climbed for a moment atop it.

"Who'd like to share this bunk-bed with me?" Kara asked the younger staff. As she climbed back down and sat on the bottom bunk.

"Well, if I can get something set up and working, it'd be nice to see if we can sleep after it." Rya muses with a grin.

After they'd packed away their things for the following day, the eight gathered girls divvied up the beds between one another. The end result turned out to be: Kate and Mary, Rya and Annmarie, Bryn and Xion and, finally, Kara and Tama. Kate and Kara had claimed the leftmost beds in the room, leading to the two young friends being bedmates to a degree. Kara's bunk was closer to the back of the room, mirrored to where Rya had picked her bunk, leaving both Mary and Xion, the two known for having frequent toilet breaks, closest to the door.

"So, now the beds are sorted, should we head on down and get the food order in?" Rya suggested. "I heard we're having Pizza tonight."

"What do you have in mind?" Kara asked. Wondering just what sort of plan Rya had up her sleeve.

Once everything was packed away everyone gathered together. The beds were divvied up between everyone. Kara had been placed with Tama. Who'd be taking the bottom bunk with both Kate and Mary just near-by. Rya then suggested that they go take care of their food order as everyone was going out of the room. Kara picked to stay behind for a few moments as she called out.

"I'll be a couple of moments."

Taking out her phone she texted her sisters just to give them an update. On how she was doing but also to get up on Haley. She let them know she was back at the cafe and was just about to eat dinner. She sent the message and then quickly went to rejoin the others.

"Oh, you'll know soon enough." Rya replied cryptically. "It'll be fun, trust me. It's a staple for any sleepover party!"

When the rest of the group filed out of the room to go and put their orders in, Kara hung back to send a text over to her sisters, letting them know what she was up to at the moment. Once the text was sent, she also went downstairs to rejoin the others. The cafe staff had been sectioned off into their room assignment groups and were informed of how things would be going.

"Two large pizzas per room, huh?" Rya repeated to her roommates once the overall announcement was done. "That'll give us a quarter of a pizza each. Toppings might be a little tricky, though, depending on what people like. Okay, time to get preferences in."

Rya asked each of her roommates in turn which toppings they preferred from the selection available.

Mary - "I don't want anything too spicy or too bitter."

Kate - "I'm not fussed much about toppings as long as it's not those really spicy peppers."

Tama - "Meat feast!"

Bryn - "I'm not big on lots of vegetables, so let's go for one that doesn't have much on."

Xion - "I...don't mind..."

Annmarie - "Though I am trained to withstand the heat of the Underworld, the spicy green things are bad."

Rya - "Anything's fine, so long as there's lots of different flavours."

This left Kara to put in her comment about toppings before anything was decided upon.

Kara once more wondered what Rya meant she tried to think. About what it could be and drew a few items from what she remembered. From her last sleepover in the other world with the Seras. After having sent her text to her sisters Kara rejoined the others downstairs where she joined up with her assigned group. Before she reached them she saw other groups and looked around to see if Mikan was still here.

Two pizzas were given to each room and everyone else listed off what they preferred. From what was made available to them all.

"Nothing too spicy and anything else is fine," Kara commented.

She went over to stand beside both Mary and Tama. "Try not to drink too much before bed," Kara advised them. While tonight was supposed to be fun she was still looking out for the two little ones making sure that they might now have any accidents this night.

During the time the briefing about food orders were given, Kara looked around to see if she could spot Mikan among the other groups. Unfortunately, as she was not a member of Staff at the Cafe, Mikan wasn't in any of the groups. She'd probably headed off home while the others were getting themselves sorted.

When everybody had listed off their preferences, Rya looked through the Menu that was given to her group. Going along with what people had said, she had narrowed it down to around four pizzas.

"So, we can choose between a Meateor, a Double Pepperoni, a basic Meat Feast one or a...chicken curry? Since when has curry been on Pizza?" Rya listed off, showing evident confusion at the last one. "None of these are about a 'Mild' on the spice chart."

"What's the difference between Meat Feast and Meateor?" Bryn questioned.

"Meateor has got barbecue sauce on the base and switches out the ham for spicy sausage slices." Rya clarified. "Looking at the deal that we're probably banking on getting as well, each group would have a 2.5L bottle of soft drink with the pizzas."

The group began deciding on their preferred combinations but most were all congregating towards both the Meat Feast and the Meateor as their selected pair. The two were similar enough to be the same pizzas but also different enough to offer a variety of flavours which they could have. Kara also took this chance to caution the younger members on not drinking too much before bed.

"We'll try~" The chorused in unison, though it was clear their definition of 'trying' would be a little different today.

The pizzas for their group was narrowed down to about four. As Rya looked at the menu and listed off the ones that they could pick from. Kara was a tad surprised at the thought of chicken curry on pizza she had never heard of that before. Then Bryn asked about the difference between Meat Feast and Meateor. Kara went with what the group had wanted in both the Meat Feast and Meateor as a selected pair.

Kara then got a reply back from the younger members about. Trying to not drink too much before bed. Using this chance Kara looked to see which group Mia belonged to. As she also took a moment to see what kind of soft drink their group would be getting.

In a landslide victory the winning pair of Pizzas were Meat Feast and Meateor. Everyone had settled on them as the preferred pairing and chose to have standard Cola as their option for accompanying drink. The rest of the groups had also settled on their choices and one member from each of them went to inform Leigh about their orders.

During this short wait, Kara scanned the other groups in search of Mia and found her to be grouped with the Squirrel twins and a few other cafe members she recognised. When their order was finalised and Rya returned to the group, they set off back upstairs to wait out the delivery time for their food. Once they were back in the room the rest of the group members sat around the large coffee table while Rya searched through her bags for something.

"I know it put it in here somewhere...ah! There it is!"

Rya retrieved a small laptop from her bag along with a selection of DVDs.

"Now then, these ones we'll watch later..." Rya mused as she placed a couple of DVDs off to the side. "...and these we can watch whenever."

Once back in their room as they waited for their orders. They all sat around the large coffee table as Rya looked for something in her bags. Kara took a seat and as soon as she sat down Mary came over and sat upon her lap while Tama. Sat to Kara's right side and Bryn took a seat to her left. Kara placed her hands around Mary resting them upon the girls lap.

Rya then had got a small laptop and a selection of dvds.

"What sort of dvds are we going to watch?" Kara asked.

She was curious about what they were about to watch now and later on.

The gathered girls sorted out seating arrangements amongst themselves as Rya searched through her bag. By the time she was done, everybody was ready.

"Just some staples for all Sleepover parties." Rya vaguely answered Kara's question. "We'll start the night off with something light like a kid's movie. I'm thinking of letting the lil' ones pick that movie. Once we've all had our food, then we'll go into the more...intense movies."

Rya spread out the DVDs she kept in her hands across the table. They consisted of popular children's movies that had relatively short runtimes, which looked to be the best way to spend the wait until food arrived.

"If you're not feeling a movie right now, I bought a couple of games we could play instead?"

Rya had spread out the dvds she had picked out across the table. The younger kids then looked through them and tried to decide on what to watch. There were also a few games they could play as well if they wished to.

"I'm fine with whatever the kids pick to watch." Kara said.

Trying to have a little fun of her own in secret. Kara used this chance to run her hand across Mary's side from her lower right thigh up her side. Almost like she was checking for something special that she had in interest in. She also looked over to Annmarie and then Bryn wondering if she could play a secret prank on them like she had done to Tama earlier.

The group shared the opinion that the little ones should pick the first movie of the evening to watch. While Mary flicked through the available ones with the other younger members, Kara began to feel up her sides to see if she had anything on underneath the clothes she was wearing. Unfortunately, Kara could only feel the waistband of actual panties and not protective underwear. This might be because everyone had yet to change into their sleepwear, and likely won't change until after they'd had dinner.

The young quartet discussed between each other which movie(s) they should watch until they eventually settled on something. Though opinions were split, they managed to come to a compromise.

With the young members discussing what to watch. Kara had checked Mary secretly to find out what was underneath her clothes. She only found out she was wearing actual panties and not the protection she normally wears. It could have been that everyone had not changed into their sleepwear yet. Kara thought about trying again later on after everyone was changed.

A movie was then picked out the they were all split on it. Coming to a compromise with the dvd put into the match and it starting up. Kara looked through some of the board games that Rya had also brought. Kara went on to ask any of the other girls if they wanted to play a game together or if they didn't want to play and one or more people joined they could play Guess Who?

The DVD which the younger girls selected was slipped into the disc tray of Rya's laptop and booted up to the main menu screen. After pressing the 'Play' button, the seating arrangement was shifted slightly as the four younger girls moved up closer to the laptop so they could watch the movie, leaving the four older members to have the rest of the table to themselves.

"If we're going to play something, we should keep it quiet so we don't interrupt the others." Bryn suggested. " 'Guess Who' is a little too talking focused to play at the moment."

"That's why I bought a pack of cards along as well." Rya interjected as she produced a playing card pack from her bag. "Old Maid, Gin Rummy, Blackjack, Pairs and Snap could be played. Well, Snap's probably too loud as well."

The groups moved apart with the younger girls near the laptop. And the older ones on the other side of the table. It was suggested they keep quiet so Kara's idea of a game wasn't best suited for right now yet Rya had brought a pack of cards along. A few games were then suggested that they could play.

"Why not play blackjack and then old maid?" Kara suggested.

The four older girls settled on some quick card games to pass the time until food arrived. They opened up with a game of Blackjack. Each member would take it in turns as the 'Dealer' until each person had that role three times. A game of 'rock, paper, scissors' decided who'd be Dealer first, which led to Rya being Dealer. Shuffling the deck and dishing out cards to each of the players, the game started...

In true Blackjack fashion there wasn't a clear-cut winner and nobody managed to get a consistent enough winstreak to be deemed so. The group then moved on to their second game, which was Old Maid. Old Maid was easier than Blackjack but there was one member among the group who didn't quite grasp the concept of 'Poker Face'. Once Kate accidentally drew the Joker Card from another player, she was stuck with it as she didn't manage to hide her expressions whenever someone almost picked it from her hand.

Following the clear defeat of Kate, the eight girls were notified that food had arrived. It was just on time for the younger members as their first movie of the evening was rolling through the end credits when the notice came. Everybody made their way downstairs once more to gather up their foodstuffs.

They played a few quick games of blackjack with each person. Being dealer for about three times each they played. 'rock, paper and scissors' to decide on who'd be dealer first which was Rya. Turned out no one was a clear-cut winner but a couple of times Bryn and Kara got close to a winstreak each. But were beaten by either Rya or Kate the next turn. They then moved onto their second game old maid which was easier.

Trying to make this game more exciting Kara decided on making a playful bet. Whoever lost the game would have to do one thing the winner said. Rya was up for the bet and so was Kate yet Bryn looked a little doubtful but joined in at the end. The game started out evenly among them all until Kara was dealt the joker card. She put on a brave 'poker face' hoping that someone would draw the card and she wouldn't be stuck with it until the end of the game and lose.

A few turns went by and no one picked the card. Kara was almost about the give up hope when on a lucky break happened and Kate was the one who picked the joker card from Kara. Who was overjoyed that this happened the rest of the game was rather easy. As no one else picked the card since Kate was unable to hide her experssions when someone nearly picked the card from her hand. This led to Kate's defeat and everyone was the notified that the food had arrived.

They all headed downstairs to gather the food yet Kara remained behind for a few moments. Saying she was going to use the bathroom.

As the group made their way downstairs to get their food, Kara informed them she'd be hanging back to use the toilet. The rest of the group said that Kara didn't have to come along once she'd finished as they'd carry the food up so instead she can help clear up the games so they had somewhere to put the pizzas and drinks.

A few minutes later, the pizzas, drinks, cups and paper plates were carried into the room and organised across the table. They didn't only have a single bottle of drink, but three of them, leading to a total of 7.5L of Cola.

"One bottle wouldn't be enough, so I put in an order for two more." Rya explained to the others.

"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Bryn questioned, sounding a little concerned.

"Yeah, yeah, it's fine."

The youngsters weren't complaining as that meant they had more fizzy drinks they could have. The pizzas were split evenly between everybody and the snacking commenced.

That had been a little lie at the start as Kara planned to try. Looking through her friends belongings to see if she could find. Out anything interesting they might have packed away she knew she only had a few minutes. Quickly using the time to clear up the games on the table so they could. Put down the pizzas and drinks knowing she had to be fast Kara looked around and moved quickly over to Rya's belongings.

Opening the bag a little she peaked inside looking to see what lay within.

After she finished looking she closed the bag then hurried to the bathroom. To use it like she had said she would. Once that was done she returned to the room and everyone. Else had returned already. The pizzas, drinks, cups and plates were all organised across the table. Where Rya and Bryn were busy talking about the drinks.

"Everything okay here?" Kara asked.

She caught the concern in Bryn's voice but said nothing about it. She then helped herself to some pizza and joined the youngsters.

Disguising her true intention, Kara's purpose for hanging behind was to look through the belongings of her roommates. Quickly clearing down the table so she'd kept up her ruse, Kara searched through Rya's bag and found...

...absolutely nothing of note.

Rya's back was as normal as a teenager's bag could be. Nothing stood out, nothing looked strange, and everything inside was pretty much what anybody would expect in a bag. Disappointing...

Following the anticlimactic search, Kara went through with her lie further and head off to the toilet, finishing up just after everyone else got back.

"Weird question. Why wouldn't it be?" Rya responded.

Regardless of the strange entrance she made, Kara joined up with the others in their pizza party.

"No reason." Kara said.

Having no rejoined the others in their pizza party Kara took a slice of pizza. Then poured herself a cup of soda and sat down. The pizza tasted good and the soda was refreashing for having not drank anything for a while. However Kara kept an eye on Bryn once or twice during the course of the meal. Just to see how she was fairing since she had been concerned earlier. Kara again helped herself to another slice of pizza and soda.

Which for the time being was all that she wanted. She didn't want to pig out too much and let the others have their fill. After a couple of the youngsters had their fill on eating and drinking for the moment. Kara was apporched by both Mary and Tama who wanted to play Kara agreed to this and tried to get Annmarie and Xion to join in.

Curious as to why Bryn was concerned about something, Kara kept watch of her while they ate their fill of Pizza. It appeared that Bryn wasn't concerned with herself but rather the younger members of the group, particularly Tama and Mary. The younger duo were apparently not well versed when it came to restraint with Fizzy Drinks and it would no doubt come back to bite them later. That is what Bryn was probably concerned about.

As expected, Tama and Mary were one of the first few people to finish eating and no sooner than they did that did they want to play some more, which was an aftereffect of all the sugary drinks they'd had. Even though their glasses were comparatively smaller than the older group members, they still polished off their original amount and a few refills on top of that. Annmarie and Xion were still eating at the time Kara asked if they wanted to join in, so they passed on the offer.

When everybody else had finished their food, Rya carried on with the next part of their agenda for the evening.

"Time to get ready for bed, everyone." Rya informed the group. "If you're a little nervous changing in front of everyone then you can change in the toilet across from this room."

Turns that Bryn was more concerned for the younger members of the group. That being both Mary and Tama and not herself. As the F of them had been some of the first to finish eating and now wanted to play some more. This was due to the amount of refills that they had polished off. So while Kara agreed to play with Tama and Mary she encountered a couple of problems there.

The two young girls were full of unlimited energy. Kara was finding it hard to keep up with them at times and couldn't help but compare their energy. To that of Haley when she got playful at times and while she was easy to handle. Mary and Tama were a tad harder but Kara was able to pull through giving each girl. Enough attention until everyone else had finished their food and Rya informed the group of their next part.

Which was now time to get ready for bed. Kara went over to where she packed her nighttime clothes near her bed taking out her pj's. She looked around at the others looking to see who'd be staying and who would be going to change in the toilet across from their room. This also gave Kara the chance to check on Mary or even trying to spy on the others. This left her with a couple of options on what she could do.

Following Rya's instruction, the eight girls started to get ready for the evening ahead. Annmarie and Xion were the only two who looked to be preferring the option of changing in private so Bryn went with them to wait outside the toilet while the two took it in turns to get changed. The remaining people in the room with Kara were Rya, Kate, Mary and Tama. Rya and Kate had no reservations with undressing and getting changed into their sleepwear but Tama and Mary did need rounding up a little and setting back on track at least twice.

Overall, it didn't take long for everyone to get changed and the group was back together once more to continue their plans for the evening.

Everyone was busy with changing for bed with Annmarie and Xion. Wanting to use the toilet outside to change in peace. With Bryn going with them to wait outside as the two smaller girls took their turns. This left Kara with Kate, Mary, Rya and Tama who began undressing to get changed and Mary and Tama needed to be. Rounded up a little and things to be set back on track.

While Kara was busy undressing she took a little time to watch Maryand Kate change. As she decided to have a little fun with Kate as the girl's back was to her. Making her way over slowly before she had placed her pj's on. Kara was keeping her gaze fixed on Kate but here and there looked over at Mary.

She'd watch Mary closely for a few seconds then return her attention to Kate. So that the others wouldn't know she was looking at Mary on purpose. Yet when she reached Kate and was close enough to see Mary Kara made a bold move. As Kate was taking off her top over her head and couldn't see anyone. Kara playfully reached out with both her hands to playfully grope Kate's breasts a couple of times before. Retreating to her side of the room to finish changing before the other's arrived back inside.

Learning from her previous mistakes, Kara managed to disguise her intentions incredibly well this time and was treated to quite a few nice views from the other girls in the room. From Tama and Mary's panty-only near-nudity to Rya's strikingly perfect body. Kara definitely got her fill of Tama and Mary as she had to put them back on track when they were in nothing but their panties. To her displeasure, though, neither of them had donned padded undergarments as of yet, but it was still early.

In an effort to sate her own lustful pleasure, Kara decided to playfully grope Kate as she was getting changed. Despite how modest Kate's endowment was they were still very soft and enticing to squeeze. Kate actually took it quite well and, even though she didn't identify who did it, didn't react badly.

Once everyone was changed into their sleepwear, Rya set up the laptop to play something other than Children's movies.

"We'll start off with it being mild and then go deeper later." Rya cryptically mused to herself as she turned the laptop to face away from the others, placed a disc into the CD tray and started to boot something up. "Might wanna take care of things now if you're not sure you'll last. Can't have a sleepover party without them, after all."

With her intentions hidden very well. Kara was treated to quite a few nice views of the other girls in the room. Rya had a perfect looking boby and Mary and Tama gave Kara her fill when she'd helped get them back on track. While neither had donned their padded undergarments yet to her displeasure there might still be time for that since it was early and could happen later.

Her playful grope of Kate went fairly well, Kate wasn't upset about it. And groping her chest felt very soft to the touch. Then everyone was finished changing and the other three girls returned. As Rya changed the disc in her laptop to play something else. Kara took a moment to look at see what Rya had picked out while telling everyone to take care of things now.

Kara used this chance to head to the toilet herself. Then tried to bring Mary and Tama along so they could use it too. They both said they didn't need to go right now and Kara left them along for the time being. After her business was concluded Kara returned to her room. Where she tried to interact with Kate, Xion, Annmarie and Bryn.

A couple of time Mary and Tama tried to pull Kara away. Saying that they wanted to play some more Kara politely turned them down for the time being. Saying she'd play with them later as the movie started up she felt someone tugging at her sleeve she looked over to see who it was.

Curious as to what Rya had planned, Kara attempted to see what she was starting up. A single look at the disc that was placed in the CD tray showed that it was a generic Comedy Horror movie. It didn't look that scary at all but was likely filled with sudden jumpscares that might garner some reaction before being laughed off. Following the caution given by Rya, Kara took this opportunity to head over to the toilet once more before settling down to watch the movie. The tugging she felt at her clothes came from Tama, who probably wanted to sit on her lap like Mary was doing with Kate.

Pressing the play button on the DVD's main menu, Rya turned the laptop back around so the screen was facing the audience and joined them while the movie started up. Annmarie and Xion were flanking Bryn to either side, acting confident that the movie won't scare them at all.

The dvd that Rya and placed into the laptop was some sort of comedy horror movie. As the movie began to play and seeing who was the one to tug at her clothes. She saw that it came from Tama who wanted to sit on her lap. Kara let Tama do as she pleased and the young girl took her seat. Kara thought about for a brief moment if she could play another playful trick on Tama as the movie played. Much like how she had done so on their shopping trip that day.

She kept her attention fixed on the screen and tried not to think. Too much about how nice it felt having Tama upon her lap.

As might have been expected, the movie wasn't that scary at all aside from some telegraphed jumpscare moments that was about as effective as she initially thought. There were a couple of screams from the younger members at those times but they quickly turned into laughs. The movie ran its course and came to its conclusion and as the credits started rolling Rya got out some more DVDs and place them behind the laptop so the little ones couldn't see them.

"Who wants to pick the next one? You can RPS for it if you want." Rya suggested to the older members.

"I'll pick out the next one." Kara offered.

She had to get up for a moment and moved over to where Rya was. Which meant she needed for Tama to get up off her lap. When she was near Rya she looked at the various dvds that were there behind the laptop. "Do you have anything a little more scarier?" Kara whispered. As she agan looked at the dvds she wanted something that would be a tad more effective for her plan with Tama to work. But something along the lines that wouldn't scare the younger members too much.

After finding a dvd Kara placed it into the laptop and went to sit back down. Tama climbed onto her lap again but not before Kara playfully pinched Tama's bottom.

Kara volunteered to pick out the next DVD they'd watch and looked over the collection that Rya had. There was a large number to choose from but a lot of them look far too scary for the younger members as they were rated 18+. The last movie the group watched was a 12A*, so the next step up would be a 15A*. Finding a relatively fitting one for her requirements, Kara selected that movie and returned to the rest of the group. The playful gesture from her towards Tama didn't get that much of a reaction aside from a standard one.

Trying to pick out the next dvd for everyone to watch was a lot harder. Then it looked as while there was a large number to pick from. Most of them were too scary for the younger members to watch as they were rated 18+. So they had to pick one of the lower ranking ones that were safer. She did find one movie that did fit her requirements. Tama gave a standard reaction to Kara's playful gesture. As the movie played and Kara watched for a scarier scene that would cause Tama to jump Kara cast a shadow spell upon the small girls bottom to make it feel like something had touched her.

Kara's plan to elicit some reaction from Tama went off pretty well. Timing her actions to a point in the movie where a jumpscare was bound to happen, Kara used her powers to tease Tama by brushing an illusory shadow hand against the girl's rear. The sudden yelp from Tama caused a chain reaction of screams among the other younger members in the room before Mary and Tama erupted into giggles at it all. On the other hand Annmarie and Xion were still trembling, even when the other two were laughing. The rest of the older people present did what they could to reign everything back to the way it was before and managed to succeed with a little difficulty.

When the second movie came to an end, Rya switched the lights back on.

"Okay, two movies down. We'll take a little break until we watch the next one if that's fine with everybody else." Rya suggested to the group. "Better make sure you're ready as we'll be watching the really scary stuff once this break's over."

Annmarie and Xion did not look best pleased by this announcement.

Kara's plan went off very well she once again was able to tease Tama. Into thinking that something had touched her rear again. Her yelp caused the other younger girls to scream in return and Kara herself. Couldn't help but giggle at this along with Mary and Tama yet the other two girls were scared. The other older members helped things get back under control as the second movie came to an end.

Kara having her fill of movies at the moment tried to suggest to some of the other members. If they'd like to play the game she suggested earlier.

"Anyone up for trying their hands with me at Guess Who?" Kara asked.

Interpreting the idea of a break as a chance to play games, Kara suggested they did so and asked if the others wanted to join her.

"Gonna head off to the girls' room first, be back in a bit." Rya answered as she opened the room's door.

"Make that two of us." Bryn added in as she got up from her cushion around the table, It took her a second to notice that Annmarie was still clinging to her arm. "Three, I guess?"

With the tag-along, Bryn and Rya left the room.

"Once they get back let's go ourselves, okay?" Kate suggested to Tama and Mary. "You're free to join us as well, Xion."

Being left without Bryn and Annmarie, Xion was looking a little nervous by herself. She responded to Kate's comment with a small nod after jumping a little at the sudden attention on her.

A few minutes later Rya, Bryn and Annmarie returned to the room.

"All ready now." Rya informed Kara. She then noticed how Kate ushered Mary, Tama and Xion to come with her. "Well, once they get back of course."

Bryn and Rya returned to their positions around the table. Strangely, though, Rya's interest wasn't in the game being set up but rather Kara herself...

As the others used this chance to go to the bathroom. Kara was busy setting up for the game by gathering small slips of paper. As Rya said she was going to step out to the bathroom and Bryn followed along after her. With Annmarie in tow who was clinging to Bryn's arm.

"I'll join you in a bit." Kara said.

This left Kate and the others waiting for their turn. As Kara soon finished up setting up the game on the table. The others then returned and the others took their turns as Kara went to join them. She didn't notice that Rya's attention was fixed on her as she left the room to take care of her business.

Moments later Kara returned with the others and sat down at the table. Kara then began to pass out the slips of paper to those who wished to play. While at the same time explaining the rules of the game.

"What were suppose to do is write down some bizzare or unique fact about ourselves. And fold the slips up smaller and someone will gather them all and place them into a bag." Kara paused for a moment to show everyone the bag the slips of paper would go into. "Then we shake the bag and someone would need to pull the slips of paper out one by one. Saying what's on the paper and we all have to guess who the fact is about." Kara fully explained as she wrote something down on her slip of paper. Still unaware that Rya was still watching her.

Following the trips to the toilet, Kara explained the rules for the game.

"That's a bit different from what I know of." Rya replied. "Guess Who, to me, is one of those party games for two players. This kinda works for our larger group, I'd say."

"Question!" Kate chimed in. "What counts as a Bizarre or Unique Fact?"

"How do we find out who's the winner, or is this one of the games where we just get to know each other better?" Bryn asked.

"Do we have to write down a fact about ourselves?" Xion interjected. "What if we've got nothing to say?"

Once the barrage of questions was answered and the players had wrote down stuff to put in the bag, then came the last question.

"So, who's going first?" Rya asked.

Three questions came Kara's way about the rules of the game.

"Bizzare would mean something weird, unusual or strange about yourself. While unique would be along the lines of something different or rare about yourself. Or for example perhaps something like out of your whole family only you can play the piano or sing really well." Kara tried to explain.

She even went as far as using Rya's computer to show everyone the meaning of both words. So that they would all have an easier time of understanding what she was trying to say.

"It's just a game to get to know each other better."

Kara moved to speak with Xion.

"It'd be helpful if you could write down something about yourself. If you have nothing to say about yourself you can always sit out of the game."

With the questions answered and the stuff on the notes written down and placed. Into the bag one last question was asked.

"I'll go first." Kara answered.

Having given the bag a good shake she reached inside and pulled out one of the notes. Then opened it up to read what was written upon it.

With the rough ruleset of the game in mind, Kara was the first to pull forth one of the scraps of paper from the bag.

'I have a large collection of plushies.'

"Only two people stand out to me when plushies come to mind." Kate observed. "I think I know who wrote this."

"Yeah, seems about right I think." Bryn agreed.

"Couldn't really be anyone else." Rya interjected.

"It's gotta be..." Tama started.

"...no doubt about it..." Mary continued.

There was a small pause for tension until...

"It's got to be Annmarie." the group said in unison.

"Y-yes..." Annmarie quietly answered.

The next person to pull a paper scrap from the bag was Annmarie.

'I have two wardrobes full of clothes that I hardly wear.'

"Well, I think we all know who this one's about." Bryn commented once the message was read.

With the first bit of paper pulled out and the first note being read it was about. Someone having a large collection of plushies. The first name to pop into Kara's head was Elle of all people but she was totally different then the group around her now. As she looked around she tried to think of who could fit the bill.

"Annmarie likes plushies that much?" Kara asked.

While she might have known about this she was drawing a blank if. She could have learned about it at some point in time. The next to pull something out was Annmarie about someone having a large collection of clothes they hardly wear.

"That wouldn't be Rya now would it?" Kara voiced her opinion on who she thought it would be.

After the others said their pieces the next person pulled out another paper scarp.

"I'm still not fully used to living with my new family."

"Plushies make good things to cuddle up against in bed, so it's not that surprising." Kate commented in regards to Kara's question. "Pretty much everybody here probably has a plushie or two they keep in their bed."

The second slip of paper was another easy to answer one as there was a prime suspect for having far too many clothes.

"Yeah, got me there." Rya admitted with and embarrassed chuckle. "I kinda collect more clothes than I can wear."

Rya pulled out the next slip of paper from the bag and came across an unusual one which stumped the group for a moment.

"I'm not certain but I'm thinking...Kara?" Bryn suggested. "I mean, process of elimination and all."

Rya admitted to the second note that had been read was about her. "Does that mean you like to go shopping for clothes?" Kara asked.

Rya pulled out the next paper slip and what was read upon it. Confused the group for the moment as it was rather unusual.

"Yeah, that ones mine, I'm so used to being an only child. But living with my new sisters has been both a fun yet difficult experience." Kara answered.

Kara pulled out the next slip of paper and read was was written.

"I don't think there's a girl alive who doesn't like shopping for clothes." Rya replied to Kara's question. "I always like to stay on top of the trends so clothes shopping is a must for me."

Bryn's guess was right on the mark when it came to the next fact to be pulled out.

"I guess going from having everything to sharing stuff could be difficult." Bryn mused.

"Having siblings means more stuff for you as well, as they have to share too." Kate interjected.

Continuing the game, Kara pulled the next slip of paper out of the bag.

'My best friend is a Plushie.'

"Well, that's easy to guess." Rya commented.

"Yeah, too easy!" Tama agreed.

It didn't take much thinking to know that the source of that note was none other than Xion, leading to the next round.

'I know lots of random trivia questions and answers.'

After saying both their pieces the game moved on with Kara reading the next paper. What she read was super easy to guess at.

"That was rather easy." Kara agreed.

Since it was Xion she was next to go and read the next note. Kara gave it some thought seeing as how there were only three people left it could belong to.

"Could this one be Bryn?"

"Unfortunately, that one's not mine. Trivia is actually one of my weaker points." Bryn responded to Kara's guess.

The others thought about who it could be until Mary guessed it first time.

"That one's gotta be Big Sis."

"Right you are." Kate replied as she pat Mary on the head.

The total of paper slips in the bag had now dropped to three and the only people who hadn't been guessed were Mary, Tama and Bryn. As there weren't that many people left, the last three slips were pulled out by Bryn, Kate and Tama, which were each read in turn.

Slip 1 - ' Laps are my most favourite Pillow.'

Slip 2 - ' I can run around for a really long time before feeling tired.'

Slip 3 - ' I'm a little jealous of how much bigger other girls are compared to me.'

Tallying up these last three to their owners shouldn't be much trouble.

Kate was the one who was good a triva games which meant Kara's guess had been wrong.

"That's really something do you play those types of games a lot?" Kara asked.

The last three paper slips were read and all that was needed now was to guess. Who each of what was said belonged to as only three girls had yet to be guessed.

"I believe the first one is Mary and the second one should be Tama."

The third answer had to of been from Byrn but. There had to be a meaning behind what was said. Could Byrn be upset about how much taller the girls were from her. Or was she upset at some of them had bigger chests then her?

"Is the last one Byrn?"

Kara asked is Kate played a lot of trivia games.

"Not really. I just have a good memory for the most random of things." Kate replied.

The final three slips of paper were paired up to their owners. Tama and Mary's were pretty obvious and expected but Bryn's did provoke a lot of thought. Now that the game had come to an end, it was time to resume the movies. The table was cleared down once more and glasses were refilled with drinks before Rya switched off the lights and slotted in the next DvD.

"Hope you're all ready because this one's meant to be really scary." Rya cautioned the rest with a sly smile.

The game had come to an end with the last three answers being voiced. Yet Bryn's did make the older girls think some more on that. So, once again it was time to resume with the movie watching and once the table. Was cleared up and those that wanted had their drinks refilled then with the lights turned off Rya placed the new movie which was said to be scarier then the others went in.

Kara looked around the room to see what the others thought at Rya's comment.

"Are you sure?" Kara asked.

She a moved from her recent spot and took a seat near Annmarie.

Upon hearing Rya's comment about the scariness of the next movie, Kara looked around the room to see how the others took it. The only ones who appeared to react to it were Annmarie and Xion and they looked to be just as wary as they were for the earlier movies.

"It got good reviews online and the tickets sold pretty well when it was at the Cinema, so that must mean something." Rya shrugged in response to Kara's question.

With Annmarie and Xion looking wary like before this gave. Kara a chance to think about if she should try to scare one of the two girls. In a similar way like she'd already done to Tama twice. Using magic again was something she decided against doing and this time was going to focus on her own physical needs. But first she needed to study her target a little to see how they were reacting so far.

Kara took the chance to study Annmarie a little. As she used the time to watch the movie and the girl in question.

Deciding against using her powers to perform more pranks on the girls, Kara observed how Annmarie was reacting to the movie in an attempt at finding an opening.

Annmarie was not faring that well with this one but she was managing to keep it as subtle as possible that nobody else picked up on it, or so she was hoping. Her attention kept flicking to the darkened corners of the room for potential reasons that Kara put down to either: A) Purposefully not looking at the screen whenever the atmosphere made it so jumpscares were likely, or B) Checking the corners due to her own overactive imagination.

With Annmarie's attention so split Kara could easily find an opening for a scare if she wanted to, even with her target being on high alert. With how the movie was going at the moment, the perfect time to strike would be very soon, if she so wished to do so.

Having watched Annmarie for some time Kara was able to pick up. That she wasn't fairing well at all she kept turning away from the screen and looking. At the dark corners of the room to see if something was there or not. With her attention split this gave Kara a good chance to find an opening if she so wished to scare her. Keeping an eye on Annmarie for that one good moment Kara also used this chance to look around her.

For anything she could use to touch Annmarie that she could get rid of quickly.

Intent on scaring Annmarie, for whatever reason, Kara searched the nearby vicinity for anything she could poke the girl with and discard immediately.

The only things nearby were drink cups. They'd work somewhat but they weren't the best thing to use. The other nearest thing was one of the leftover pencils from the previous game. Neither option had the length required to effectively cause a scare without putting herself in potential risk of being caught. The girls were quite thorough with cleaning the table down and there really wasn't many things that were long enough to begin with.

The tension in the movie was rising to the point where another scare was imminent so Kara would have to act swiftly if she still wanted to scare Annmarie.

Finding very little things to use and not wanting to get caught by Annmarie. Kara was left with deciding to take the risk or instead. Skip it altogether and leave the bad scare up to the movie itself. She still had the option of using magic to create a scare but still refused to do so. Kara went with holding out of scaring Annmarie and let the movie do its work for her instead.

Her thoughts instead went with maybe trying something during the night. But instead of it being a scare move it could be turned into a playful prank.

Deciding that the risk was too great, Kara set aside her intentions to scare Annmarie and left it up to the movie to do so. As expected, a jumpscare came mere moments later, creating a cacophony of screams mixed in with laughter from the movie watchers. The film had reached its climactic mid-point and the scares came frequently as it played through the last part of it. Annmarie and Xion had stopped watched it and were huddled up against Bryn with their eyes closed as they faced away from the screen. Tama and Mary were clinging on to Kate but were still watching the movie despite them shivering in fright. Rya, on the other hand, looked mostly unaffected by the movie and remained watching it, focused on seeing it through until the end.

Feeling a little left out when it came to someone being huddled up with her Kara. Remained watching the movie after she had looked around at the others seeing as Mary and Tama were clinging to Kate watching to movie and Annmarie and Xion being with Byrn. Not wishing to watch anymore of it and Rya was unaffected by the movie at all. Kara was left with watching the movie herself but got up a little later and went to sit on her bed. She wasn't really in the mood to finish the movie instead thinking of what she could do to pass the time.

A little after the events of the scares the movie drew to a close. Kara had gotten rather bored of watching and ended up forgoing seeing the conclusion. Though her reasoning was likely not that of fear, it depended on how the others perceived her abandonment of watching.

"...and I think that's enough of Horror movies for now." Rya declared as she turned the lights back on, the sudden illumination causing some of the people present to flinch as their eyes adjusted back to light. "Some of us look like they've just about reached their limit. Anyway, what should we do next?"

Kate checked the clock in the corner of Rya's laptop.

"It's nearing eleven o'clock so I don't think we should do anything too loud otherwise we might disturb everyone else." Kate observed. "Although, I'm pretty open to any suggestions."

While it wasn't fear that had made Kara give up on watching the conclusion of the movie. The truth is she had just gotten bored but as she sat alone. Her thoughts traveled to the other Sera sisters at home she was feeling a little homesick at the moment. She thought about texting them but was interupted when the lights were turned back on and Rya began to speak.

"What if we just talked for a while, it would be nice to learn more about everyone?" Kara suggested.

She'd gotten off her bed and went back to rejoin the others.

Kara proposed the suggestion of everyone just talking until they go to bed.

"As long as we keep the noise down I think that's doable." Rya agreed. "Although, can't say there's much to talk about unless you've got more questions about us."

The rest of the girls present didn't have any objections to just chatting but they also echoed the sentiment that there might not be a lot they could talk about.

"Since you're the one who suggested this, I take it you've got some questions you want to ask about us?" Rya asked Kara. "Guess that means you'll be going first."

Right after saying they needed to keep the noise down. A few stray loud noises came from the room to their right. The sounded like someone was laughing and having a great time before it finally quieted down.

"Wonder what all that was about?" Kara voiced.

The others all agreed to just chatting about and this gave Kara the chance to start. Things off by asking a simple question that was directed at everyone.

"What were your reasons for deciding to work here?" Kara asked.

"Probably having a pillow fight or something." Rya replied in response to Kara's question about the noise from their neighbouring room. "Either that or they're gossiping."

Kara took the opportunity to ask her question first and used it to gather knowledge about why her coworkers started working at the Cafe.

"I need some way to pay for my Dorm Room and stuff while I attend School and the wages here are decent. Plus, it's one of the few places that doesn't require previous experience and allows shifts to be tailored around the worker." Rya answered.

The rest of the people present hesitated a little to answer the question before partially echoing what Rya said in some regards and adding in their own reasons. Mary's reason was simple as it boiled down to Kate working there.

"Money is a great motivator, I'd agree." Rya commented once everyone had given their reasons. "Guess I'll go next."

Rya's question wasn't aimed at anybody except Kara.

"So, where'd you hide that thing you used for the little magic trick you did earlier to tease Tama?" Rya asked Kara. "It's impressive as I can't see any activation method on you to set it off when you did. I know you didn't use your hands as I could still see both of them."

Money seemed to be the main reason a lot of the others for joining. Yet Mary's was mainly because of Kate working there. Rya used the chance to ask her next question which took Kara by surprise for a moment. As she didn't think anyone would have noticed something like that but Rya did. Though she didn't know that the thing Kara had used was the shadows themselves and not anything she could hide at all.

"I didn't hide anything it's just a small magic trick that I can use something I was born with." Kara answered. To show Rya what she meant Kara did the same magic trick again but this time used it to touch Rya's side. "You could say that I know how to use a little magic." Kara wasn't will to say more on the subject. She didn't know if the others knew of her status of being an empowered one. If Rya wanted to know more then she might be willing to speak of it just between the two of them. Much like she had done with Mikan the other day.

"How did know that about the little magic trick I used on Tama. I didn't think anyone would have noticed as everyone was too focused on the movie?"

Surprised at how Rya had managed to notice the power she had used earlier, Kara vaguely explained that it didn't require props and was something she could always do. She proved this point by using the power to poke Rya's side. The rest of the group was in stunned silence over the admittance that actual magic powers might exist.

"That's...interesting." Rya answered evenly. "Thing is, I just had some suspicions that something had to have caused Tama's actions during that movie. You just gave the answer on your own. Having it happen a second time with me being the one it happened to clears up that it's not a joke that you can do that kind of stuff."

Though she had no means of placing exactly what it was at present, Kara had the feeling that Rya's answer might've been intentionally vague...

While admitting that Kara could use magic and magic powers might exist. May have not been the best idea she didn't think she could have bluffed her way out of it. With the rest of the groups silence as for being stunned by the reveal. Kara and Rya were able to discuss things between the two of them. Yet from her answer Kara had the feeling the Rya wasn't being truthful and that her answer was vague.

"Just what sort of suspicions were those?" Kara asked.

As she waited upon what Rya's answer would be Kara took this chance to look. Around at the rest of the group before asking her next question to the others.

"What do you guys think about this?"

"It was mostly down to how nobody was really reacting that much to the movie at all until Tama suddenly yelped like she did. It wasn't even that scary a movie and all of the scares were pretty obvious before they even happened. Only something outside of the screen could cause that kind of reaction." Rya explained in response to Kara's question.

Try as she might, Kara couldn't place anything which seemed openly suspicious in Rya's tone or behaviour. There was definitely something that wasn't being touched on but she had no way of identifying what it might have been. Finding no purchase with that line of questioning, Kara turned her attention to the others. Naturally, they were all very invested in this conversation as it was something completely out of the ordinary. She asked them what they thought of it all but, as expected, there wasn't much sense from their answers as they were still trying to process such a revelation.

"Anyway...I'm sure there's more we can all talk about." Rya interjected into the silence, attempting to change the subject.

She had tried yet was unable to pick up on anything. Being suspicious in both Rya's tone and behaviour. Yet Kara still believed that Rya was hiding something even if she had now way of identifying just what it could be. Even turning to the others to get their thoughts about what had been revealed yet their answers didn't make much sense at all but they were all clearly interested in both this topic as well as still trying to process what had been revealed.

Rya then tried to change the subject to talk about something else.

"There is, I'll let one of the others ask the next question." Kara spoke.

She wasn't up for wanting to talk about anything else. She still wished to know the truth about how Rya knew about what she had done. Kara decided to try another means to try and get some further information off of Rya. She then tried to use the ring upon her to see if she was hiding anything by getting a general overveiw of her with some basic information.

Still wary of Rya, Kara agreed to change the subject and move into other questions. Almost as if expecting the response, Rya immediately dived in with a question.

"You've asked us this, but never explained your own reasons for doing so. What made you start working here?" Rya questioned. "You don't look like the kind of person who needs money."

Regardless of the questioning, Kara attempted to draw some more information out of Rya through the use of her ring...

...but was unsuccessful in convincing herself to do so. Something about Rya made it so Kara didn't want to perform any kind of hostile action against her, even if it was a simple mind probing.

Rya was the one who spoke the next question wishing to know what Kara's reasons. For joining the cafe were seeing as how Kara never spoke about it just yet. It was true that she didn't do it for the money. Her own reasons were mainly tied together with Kiki and the whole plan of them working together. She wasn't about to go into further details and simply said a short truth on them.

"A little while ago I needed a place to stay and Kiki was kind enough to take me in. To help pay for my room and board she offered me this job and I excepted." Kara answered.

While that was the truth back in her old world Kara wasn't sure what this world's "Kara" reasons for joining the cafe were.

She then tried to gather some basic intel on Rya but was unsuccessful. She almost felt like that she didn't wish to perform any hostile actions against her. This just further made Kara curious about Rya there truly was something odd about her. In fact there had always been something odd about her. Even down to when Kara had first met Rya in this new world and she had been hugged by the girl. Which in turn had made it hard for Kara to think straight at the time as all she did that day was have lewd thoughts.

"The other day at the cafe when you gave me a hug. Afterwards something strange came over me as I could keep my mind focused on the tasks at hand. Just what could have been the cause of that sudden change I wonder?" Kara asked.

Kara gave what she believed were this World's reasons for her joining the cafe staff.

"I suppose that does kinda make sense." Rya replied. However, Kara's next question turned out to be rather confusing. "I'm not really sure that's anything to do with me. Nobody else has said anything like that. Maybe you were just having an off day or something? Anyway, if there are other reasons behind that, I'm sorry but I'm not into girls."

Nothing at all looked suspect with Rya's confusion about the question.

"Regardless, I'm sensing a running theme with the questioning. Is there something you're rooting for?" Rya continued. "I thought this was meant to be just regular chatter but it seems you're trying to probe something out of me."

"Actually I believe that my last question does as I wasn't having an off day. Or anything but I do know you 'tapped' me with something that day an you've done so to others several times. I'm just curious about how you're able to do that?" Kara asked.

Kara had remembered back to her chat with Mia and Bryn. About Rya had the ability to 'tap' people and she usually went crazy with it. What Kara was curious about was just how Rya was able to do that. Was it something just like Kara's magic that only Rya could do or was there more behind it.

Rya noticed a trend in the questioning.

"You could say that I am there's something about you that. I'm curious about though I do wonder if you could be like me and the others." Kara said.

Kara further dug into questioning Rya.

"Like I said, I've no idea what you're talking about. It's not nice to accuse others for things they've not done! I didn't 'tap' you, or anyone, with anything." Rya retorted, a hint of irritation in her tone.

Things didn't look like they were going to go well if the argument continued. From everything Kara could make out, Rya was being completely truthful with how she believed she'd done nothing like what she was being accused of doing. Kara then admitted that she was digging for information out of Rya.

"So, this whole game was just to drill me with questions because I happened to notice something you did?" Rya answered. "If that's the case, then I'm not playing it any more. I can't do any of that 'Magic' stuff you can, so I don't know why you're asking me this stuff."

"Um...you shouldn't be fighting like this." Bryn interjected.

"Yeah. Wasn't tonight meant to be all fun and games?" Kate agreed.

Kara caught onto the hint of irritation that had creeped into Rya's tone. As she voiced that she knew nothing about this 'tap' ability of hers. As this was being said Kara took a moment to look over at Bryn just to see if she was aware of what Kara was asking about. Along with wishing Mia was here right now. As she'd been the one to tell Kara about this in the first place.

"She might not be aware of it?" Kara thought.

Rya then thought the whole idea of the game was just to learn more about Rya. "I just wanted to know the reason that's all." Kara explained. She didn't know if she truly believed Rya was telling the truth or not. There was something clearly odd about her perhaps it was linked to that ability where Kara was unable to get any sort of read on her.

"It was but I believe I'm done with this game."

As Rya insisted that she had nothing to do with Kara's accusation, the accuser looked to a certain member of the gathered group for hints as to whether she was alone with her claims or not. The target of Kara's observations, Bryn, looked to be neither for nor against what Kara was insinuating. Instead, it was clear that Bryn wanted nothing to do with the argument and perhaps even shared Rya's sentiment for how things were panning out. When Bryn requested the arguments stopped, it was clear she was against them in their entirety. Once things had quietened down, a tense silence filled the room.

The silence persisted for what felt like hours. Nobody wanted to speak up, and nobody had any topics for conversation. The tension likely wouldn't defuse until things were settled between Kara and Rya, but Rya didn't appear to be making any attempts at doing so, steadfast in her belief that she wasn't the one in the wrong.

Bryn wasn't of much help as it turned out she stayed out of it. Wanting nothing to do with the argument that had taken place. Soon enough the whole thing stopped and there was a silence that filled the room. It lasted a long time with no one else wanting to speak up. Kara wasn't about to speak up either to try and defuse the sitiuation. She had clearly spoke up about what had happened and even had another wittness. That being Bryn who the samething had happened to as well. Kara wasn't at fault either even if Rya wasn't aware of having done anything it had still happened she was still at fault of being the one who had done it somehow.

"I believe you owe me an apology." Kara finally spoke up.

The silence that filled the room was eventually broken by Kara.

"I think it's the other way around." Rya retaliated. "I wasn't the one who threw around accusations. You asked me a question, I gave my answer, and then you suddenly started acting as if I'm the one in the wrong for basically just answering the question."

As before, nobody else wanted to get involved in the conversation, likely out of concern for the younger members of the group who all looked to be the ones mostly affected by the dispute.

"I'm not throwing around accusations, I'm just telling you what I know and what I talked with the others about." Kara spoke up.

The others were still not speaking up for out of concern for the younger members. Still things weren't about to be fixed at all not until Rya apologized first. So, once again Kara went silent and no one else said anything for a long time before Kara said one last thing.

"I believe we should be going to bed we need to get up early tomorrow."

Both sides remained stubborn and refused to relent, adamant that the other was in the wrong. Rather than keep up the arguing, everyone eventually came to the unanimous decision that it was better if they all head off to bed rather than kept at it. And so, the evening eventually came to a rather negative close...

With still either not willing to apologize to the other. It was agreed upon that they all shoulf head off to bed. With things ending in a negative way Kara just wanted things to be over and climbed into bed. Before she fell asleep that night her thoughts drifted to Haley. About how she was currently doing but most of all. Kara tried to see if she could try linking with Haley even though the young girl wasn't here with her.

Kara wanted to see what was at the end of that maze she had entered earlier. But most of all she wanted to try her hand against Dark Haley again. She had been putting it off for a while now for having been afraid of fighting against her. But with how well things had been going lately between Kara and Haley perhaps things might have changed.

With her thoughts on Haley, Kara started to drift off to sleep, hoping to be able to link with the girl despite how far away from each other they may be. Regardless of the distance, Kara's bond with Haley allowed her to find her way into the girl's Soulscape...

Kara's destination was clear.

Navigating her way towards where she had encountered the Dark version of Haley before, Kara found herself in Erys' palace once more. Nothing much had changed since her last visit. The only noticeable difference was that the Dark Haley now sat on the Crystal Throne, fully awake with her swords casually propped against the side of it. She was evidently aware of Kara's presence but made no moves to attack her as of yet.

"Haven't you given up yet?" Dark Haley questioned. "Was one defeat not enough for you? It matters little to me. I will destroy you as many times as I need to. It's the least I can do to repay you for the suffering you put me through."

Dark Haley slowly stood up from the throne and collected her swords to prime herself for battle.

"When you're ready to die, step forth."

Having fall asleep Kara whose thoughts had been about. Haley was able to enter into her soulscape. Even though they were far apart from one another and knowing where. She wished to be was able to navigate her way. To where she had fought against the dark version of Haley before. Once she found herself again in Erys' palace where nothing seemed to have changed at all. Though she could see that dark Haley now sat on the throne and was fully awake with her swords propped up against the side of it.

"No I haven't I won't give up I will find someway to save you!" Kara answered. She still appeared fairly scared but stood her ground and took a deep breath to steal her resolve. "Back then I wasn't ready to face you but now I am, but tell me what was this suffering I put you through?"

Kara was both determind to gather any sort of new information that she could. But also to see just how she would fare against dark Haley. Kara quickly changed into her battle outfit and stepped forward to do battle.

Kara attempted to converse with Dark Haley, however she was unable to do so beyond her first sentence as her opponent went for her.

"SAVE ME?! I never asked anyone to 'Save' me! You took that upon yourself!"

/Combat commenced, talking unavailable.\\

With both her weapons at the ready, Dark Haley circled around Kara, keeping herself at a distance of at least 15ft. Stopping northwest of Kara, Dark Haley made no attempt to charge into combat but instead opted to enhance her own strength. She was encircled by a Red Aura, then a Blue Aura and finally a Green Aura.

/Dark Haley has powered up...?\\

Cautiously, Dark Haley took up a defensive stance and waited for her opponent to strike...

Talking to Dark Haley didn't seem to help at all as she went and circled around Kara. She was still within 15ft of Kara until she finally. Stopped yet made no attempt to charge or battle against Kara. Yet Kara watched as Dark Haley was then encircled by three different auras that being red, blue and then green. Curious as to just what those three auras did Kara backed away 10ft to the southwest but kept her gaze fixed on Haley. Yet made no move to try and attack Dark Haley at all.

Instead Kara played the waiting game and simply watched for what Dark Haley would do next.

The two remained in a stalemate until Dark Haley switched forms, to what Kara likened as Haley's Thaumaturge Form, and moved back to in front of the Throne. Dark Haley raised her Crystalline spell focus and bathed the 15ft area in the centre of the arena in a black light. The light itself soon vanished, but there must've been some reason behind her actions?

/Something's happened to the middle of the battlefield...\\

Neither Kara or Dark Haley made any sort of moves to attack. Each other yet Dark Haley did which forms then moved back. Towards the front of the throne only then did she cast a spell and the area 15ft in the center was bathed in a black light that vanished. Kara not wishing to move forward and she didn't know what would happen. Kara looked to her left to see a crystal pillar beside her and looked to see if there was any shadows. Followed by looking back towards the throne to see if there were any shadows there too.

Next Kara called forth her sword and fired off a concentrated energy blast from the tip of the blade in the shape of a crescent moon. At Dark Haley while then moving 5ft to the left and using the crystal pillar as a cover as she waited for her next move.

Kara observed the arena in hopes of finding some shadows. Unfortunately, as the crystal structures themselves emitted light, shadows were next to non-existent around them. The only things with shadows were Dark Haley and Kara, and even then they were faint at best due to the ambient lighting.

Kara fired off an attack from her sword and ducked behind the nearby pillar for cover.

/Counterspell - Successful\\

However, just about halfway in its flight towards Dark Haley, the spell itself shattered into nothingness.

/Spell Steal - Successful\\

Almost immediately after Kara's spell was obliterated, an exact copy of the spell fired back towards her.

/Damage: 5+9=14\\

Seeing as her prey had run for cover between the pillars, Dark Haley's Crystalline focus glowed briefly before multiple spikes burst out of the crystal pillars Kara nestled between.

/Damage (2d10+Int Bonus) : 9+8+9=27. Dex save for half damage (14)\\

With not enough shadows or little to known at all. Kara's plan of teleporting closer to Dark Haley was out of the question. And the spell she had fired off did nothing but become obliterated and a spell just like her own was fired back right at her. Then while behind the pillar multiple spikes burst out of the pillars.

Kara was able to avoid a most of the spikes but still took some damage.

Kara then tried to dodge the magic attack sent her way.

By avoiding the spell fired back at her by moving 20ft to the right side.

Avoiding the worst of the spikes and the attack that was sent back at her, Kara moved across the arena to the opposite side from where she was. Although there was a pillar blocking her view of Dark Haley, it appeared her opponent did not share the same restrictions.

/Int Check: Success! (8 Degrees)\\

Eight small crystal shards flew around both sides of the pillar to home in on her location.

Kara wasn't even safe with another crystal pillar blocking her view. Of Dark Haley as another spell was cast upon her and eight small crystal shards were. Sent her way knowing she had to move closer. Kara was able to first reduce some of the damage she took from the crystal shards but also. She managed to dodge one of the shards as well.

Kara then moved 5ft to the left and then 10ft up until. She was near both the second and third pillar's on the right side of the room.

Kara managed to avoid around half of the shards that were fired her way and continued along the side of the pillars as she approached the front of the throne room. Strangely, no further attacks came her way as of yet...

To Kara's surprise she wasn't attacked again. So using this chance Kara moved up another 10ft until she was right beside Dark Haley. Turning to face her Kara then brought her left hand forward and tried to punch Dark Haley.

Kara approached Dark Haley and struck out against her...

...however her fist went straight through her and the illusion dispersed. Less than a second later she was attack from behind by something.

/Hit chance: 77 (Hit)\\

/Damage (1d10+8) : 9+8=17\\

/Dodge chance halved due to surprise attack.\\

The real Dark Haley had shifted into Shadow Assassin as was now right behind Kara.

Yet again she failed in any sort of attack as her fist passed through an illusion. But one second later an attack came Kara's way from behind.

Kara was able dodge the attack in the nick of time. Turning around Dark Haley had changed forms again and was now right behind her. Growing fed up with how the battle wasn't going in Kara's favor she charged forward.

Kara creates a sphere-like bomb made from dark energy and charges at the enemy at close range. The bomb creates a huge wave of pressure, that throws the target away.

Despite being caught unaware, Kara managed to avoid the strike from Dark Haley and retaliate with her own attack.

/Dodge: 18 (Success)\\

/Dex Check: 83 (Fail)\\

/Recovery (Dex) : 91 (Fail)\\

Deftly disengaging from close range before the sphere detonated, Dark Haley attempted to wall-run across the pillar to her left but ended up missing her footing, causing her to land rather hard on the floor right next to Kara. The sudden collision had left her prone but it looked like she was rapidly scrambling to get back into the fight. There was also a brief flash from the section of the floor she landed on but it didn't seem to do anything. If Kara's knowledge of the battlefield was accurate, then Dark Haley just landed on one of the tiles which the beam of light from earlier covered.

Dark Haley had just managed to avoid Kara's attack. Yet as she ran away from her towards the left pillar. She lost her balance and landed right next to Kara. She looked prone to was trying to get back into the fight. One thing Kara did see was a brief flash of light from where Dark Haley had landed. Yet nothing had happened or anything was done. From what Kara knew Dark Haley had just landed on one of those tiles. There most be more around the room but just were could they be and more importantly just what did they do.

What Kara did next was summon forth her second sword. Which she gripped with her left hand and wishing to get some payback tried to attack Dark Haley.

Kara then tried to follow it up with a second attack.

Prone and unable to retaliate, Dark Haley could only take the first strike that Kara did against her. Dark Haley quickly scrambled to a position where she could try and deflect the next strike that came her way.

/Parry chance (Halved because Prone) : 64 (Failed)\\

However, she was a little too slow in reacting and the next attack connected.

/Total Damage so far: 13. HP Remaining: ?\\

Following the two strikes thrown her way, Dark Haley managed to kick herself up from the ground and dived between the pillars near her, looping around the one closest to the back of the Throne Room to position herself 20ft away from Kara.

Kara's attack had struck the prone Dark Haley. Who after that had managed to get up off the floor and move between the pillars. Moving 20ft away from Kara who then tried to cast a spell to power herself up.

Kara's spell failed to be cast and instead she moved 10ft closer to Dark Haley.

Kara advanced towards Dark Haley and attempted to power herself up but didn't manage to do so. In response, Haley withdrew further away, moving towards the opposite end of the Throne Room but still keeping Kara in her sights. On the way over, she attempted to throw a handful of shurikens towards Kara.

/Dex check: 61 (Success)\\

/Number thrown (1d6) : 6\\

/Damage (6d4) : 2+3+4+4+2+2=17\\

/Dex save possible for half damage (8)\\

Haley once again withdrew away from Kara moving towards the other. End of the throne room yet keeping her sights on Kara and tried throwing a handful of shurikens at her. Kara seeing them coming tried casting a spell to help defend herself.

Kara quickly cast her spell forming a large crystal shield in front of her. Which managed to block the shurikens causing them to bounce off it. Meaning that Kara was unharmed and she again moved 5ft closer to Haley.

Kara attempted to created a Crystal Shield that deflected the shurikens, however it did not work as intended. Rather than blocking the small implements, it melded around them and allowed them to pass through unhindered. As this wasn't the first time the Crystals had betrayed Kara here, it likely meant that any and all objects or powers of Crystalline origin would function against here in this space.

Regardless, Kara powered on through to close the distance between herself and her opponent, whom merely backed away slightly while keeping Kara in her sights. She didn't make any obvious attempt at attacking...

Things didn't work out the way Kara had wanted. Her crystal shield betrayed her and the shurikens that Kara had tried to block. Passed through the shield to strike at Kara who moved moved 15ft away from Dark Haley. Moving to the other side of the throne room once there Kara tried to cast a spell.

The light in the room started to grow just a little fainter. But there was still plenty of light within the room to see by. As Kara stood there part of her thought of retreating as much as she didn't like that thought she didn't know how to turn this fight to her advantage.

Kara cast a spell which reduced the ambient light in the throne room however the crystals were still giving off their own light. The reduction in light did create the first threads of shadows in corners which were a larger distance away from the source of light.

From previously taking a rather defensive approach of retreating, Dark Haley began running towards Kara before switching into a form which she hadn't seen the real Haley use before. All Kara could see of Haley was the large crystalline Kite Shield she now wielded rapidly accelerating towards her before making contact.

/Opposed strength check to hold ground, or a Dex check at -10 to avoid the charge.\\

/Dark Haley's result (+10 due to charge) : 45 (4 degrees of success)\\

/Failure results in getting knocked back 5ft and knocked prone, with an additional 5ft added to knockback distance for every 2 degrees of failure. Colliding with any solid object with deal 1d8 damage, with an additional 1d8 added on for every 10ft knocked back, and stun for 1d4 rounds.\\

/Base collision damage (1d8+9) : 2+9=11\\

Dark Haley switiched forms into something Kara had never seen before. Then came charging towards her with a large crystalline shield. Her pace was rapidly getting faster and Kara wasn't about to let Dark Haley hit her again.

Kara dodged to the side as Dark Haley came rushing past her and not. Being one to let this chance go to waste in getting a chance to strike back. Kara tried to attack Dark Haley with her second sword.

Then at the same time Kara tried to keep the spell she had cast going.

Kara managed to avoid the charge and struck out at Dark Haley as she passed. Unable to turn and defend due to momentum, the strike hit however it didn't appear to be fully effective, likely due to the heavy armour that she now had on.

Dark Haley collided with the wall, creating a resounding echo of crystal hitting crystal. Despite the impact, Dark Haley remained unaffected and the wall also held surprisingly well. Turning back around to target her adversary, Dark Haley's blade was coated in an inky blackness...

/Sword Effect: ?\\

Kara felt a small amount of some sort of pride that she had managed. To deal just a tiny bit of damage to Dark Haley. However not with Dark Haley turning around to face Kara once more she got a look at the weapon Dark Haley held. The blade was coated in some form of inky blackness and not knowing what it might do. Made Kara decide upon trying a different method of attack.

Kara pointed her sword at Dark Haley own. What she had planned to do was somehow make the sword vanish.

Kara then moved backwards 20ft away from Dark Haley wanting to get some distance. Between the pair along with trying to maintain the ongoing focus of her own spell.

The light within the room grew a little dimmer the crystals were. Giving off their own light yet the shadows in various places of the room grew.

Kara attempted to use trickery on Dark Haley but her opponent's mind was too strong to fall for it. Reacting to the magic, the inky blackness around Dark Haley's blade grew thicker and small tendrils of darkness extended outwards from it for a few inches. Kara then backed away from Dark Haley and retreated to the other side of the room as the shadows grew deeper.

Dark Haley simply looked at the corners of the room before dispersing into a black mist and materialising in the corner right next to Kara while attempting a downward slash. The shadows around the blade clawed hungrily as the strike flew...

/Hit chance: 34 (Success)\\

/Damage (1d6+STB) : 4+8=12\\

/If the strike connects, make a WP save or lose 6 Int for...\\

/Effect duration (2d4) : 4+2=6\\

/...6 rounds.\\

The trick that Kara had tried to use agaist Dark Haley didn't work. Yet the girl then turned into black mist and appeared in the corner right next to Kara. Before going with a downward slash that Kara was able to dodge as she took a step backwards.

Kara then went forward with her own attack trying her own downward slash. Yet at the same time Kara also tried to keep her current spell going.

The darkness that was begining to fill the room began to vanish from sight as Kara's. Control over her spell failed and light returned to the room that had already been taken away.

Kara avoided the strike and attempted to slash back.

/Block attempt: 26 (Success)\\

However the attack from Kara bounced off the shield with a high pitched clink of metal against crystal. It may have been the surprise attack, or even the sound, but Kara's concentration on her spell failed and it started to dissipate.

/Spell check: 22 (Success)\\

Large crystalline spikes began to grow out from Dark Haley's shield reaching out a handful of inches from the surface of the object. These spikes also glowed with the inky blackness that her sword did so it was safe to assume whatever was on her weapon had also affected her shield.

Kara's attack bounced off the shield and then crystalline spikes. Began to grow out of the surface of the shield. They each had the same blackness that covered Dark Haley's sword. Kara this time moved around to behind Dark Haley and tried to slash her from behind.

Following that Kara jumped up into the sky and tried to float up to 15ft away. So that she would be out of Dark Haley's reach.

Kara attempted to strike at Dark Haley once more.

/Block chance: 21 (Success)\\

However her strike was deflected by Dark Haley's shield. Following the attack, Kara tried to jump away and fly off.

/AoO Chance: 19 (Success)\\

/Damage: 5+8=13\\

/Additional Effect (on hit/failed WP) : 3+1=4 rounds.\\

/Reduction: -5 Int\\

Kara managed to get just about 5ft in the air before all of the pillars in the room fired homing lasers at her.

/Can't dodge due to homing nature of the lasers.\\

/Damage (6d6) : 4+1+6+3+2+3=19 Damage\\

The barrage didn't look like it'd stop after the first as the pillars were gearing up for another assault...

Her attack only bounced off the shield and trying to escape into the air. Didn't help matters either as the pillars sent homing lasers at her. Since Kara was unable to dodge them she was hit multiple times causing her to fall back to the ground.

As Kara struggled to get back up to her feet a wave one final. Wave of anger flowed through her with how this battle was going. It felt like nothing she tried did any good her attacks had no effect, she was the only person who was getting hurt. And seeing as how the pillars were gearing up for another assault. Only one thought went through Kara's mind one that she didn't like but was really the only option left to her.

"Mark my words this isn't over I'll be back."

In a flash light Kara escaped from the throne room. Returning back into the realm of Haley's soulscape once again. Kara feeling upset with herself planned to return to challenge. Dark Haley again but this time after forming some sort of better plan. Turning away she walked out of Haley's soulscape and drifted off to sleep back in the real world.

Rather than try and fight a losing battle, Kara decided to retreat from this attempt at challenging Dark Haley. Her opponent made no attempt at stopping the escape and didn't even respond to Kara's retort. Fleeing the throne room, Kara found herself back in Haley's Soulscape before returning to the real world.

The first rays of dawn light pierced through the curtains over the room's window as Kara's alarm went off, followed by a few other differing alarms from the rest of the room's residents. The morning of the day out had finally arrived, but it appeared a few of the other older roommates were still rather exhausted, for some reason, as they sleepily muted their alarms rather than wake up.

A few of the alarms within the room went off. Even Kara's own one did to turning over she slammed her hand down on the snooze button. Not wanting to wake up at all since she was enjoying the time sleeping. So, everyone including her were all still sleeping soundly in their beds. Yet as Kara moved around in her bed she thought she bumped into something next to her but thought nothing of it and went back to sleep fully.

Shortly after Kara fell back to sleep, she found herself in the familiar space of Charon's Office. Charon himself didn't appear to be present, but the table was laid in preparation, almost as if he was expecting Kara to stop by soon. As usual, six cards lay in a circle at the centre of the table, currently in the face down position, as Haley's Bond Card was positioned in the middle of the circle. It seems she'd grown close enough to Haley to once more be gifted new powers born from her Bond.

It wasn't long after falling back asleep Kara found herself. Back in the familiar area of Charon's office yet this time Charon wasn't around for some reason. Yet Kara did see that a table had been prepared and atop that table. Were six cards that were laying in a circle around the center of the table. In the middle of it all was Haley's Bond card. Kara reached forward and picked up Haley's card she gave it a look at before placing it back down upon the table. Then shifting her focus to the six other cards.

Kara approached the table and looked over her Bond Card to see if it had changed. The image on the front remained the same but now, when she tilted it to where it caught the light, a holographic image of a love heart was now covering the centre of the card. Although it wasn't as noticeable a change as all of the previous alterations were, this one carried with it something more than just cosmetic detail.

/Bond Perk - Shared Strength unlocked!\\

/Shared Strength (Passive) - Kara and Haley gain a permanent +10 to their lowest stats. If they are together, this bonus is increased by a further +10 for as long as they remain close to one another.\\

Kara then moved on to looking at the selection of other powers she could choose from...

/Top three (Passives) : Luck of the Draw, Side by Side, Nose for Trouble.\\

/Luck of the Draw (Passive) - Upon any failed check, you may roll a d100. If the result lands below 40, then the roll automatically succeeds with the best result possible, regardless of original result. This can only work once per RP day. If a use remains at the end of an RP day, then you may choose to roll a d100. If the result is less than 30, then the use carries over to the following day (maximum of 2 charges at any time), HOWEVER if the result lands above 30, then the use is spent for the following day and no charges are carried over.\\

/Side by Side (Passive) - At the start of each RP day, roll a d4. The result is how many 'Teleport Charges' each girl has. As long as Kara and Haley are on the same plane of existence, then either of them can spend a Teleport Charge to immediately warp to their partner's side, regardless of distance. Teleport Charges are shared between the girls, but each use can count as a two-way trip if needed. (e.g: Spending a Teleport Charge will allow the user to warp to the other's side and then back to their original position if they so wished. Teleport positions are reinitialised upon each use of this ability).\\

/Nose for Trouble (Passive) - The first hit either girl sustains in combat is reduced to half damage.\\

/Bottom three (Actives) : Reflective Armaments, Surrender to Darkness, Steeled Resolve.\\

/Reflective Armaments (Active) - Make a Casting check. On a success, enemy spells can be blocked or parried back to the caster for half of their original damage. Lasts 1d4 rounds. Up to three uses per combat.\\

/Surrender to Darkness (Active) - Give in to the uncontrollable power of Darkness, turning into a force of death and destruction. All stats, excluding Willpower, are increased to Elite Levels (80) and the number of attacks that can be made a round is doubled. Each round, take 10% of maximum health in damage. When current HP hits 10% of maximum, this form is lost and the user is stunned for a number of rounds equal to half of their Constitution Modifier. While in this form the user will not be able to tell friend from foe and will attack anyone and anything that happens to be near them, excluding their Bond Partner. This form can be cancelled early by making a successful Willpower Check, but the stun will still happen, albeit at a reduced duration (25% of Constitution Modifier in rounds). Can only be used once per RP day due to the toll it takes on the user's mind and body.\\

/Steeled Resolve (Active) - For a number of rounds equal to current Bond Level, the effect of Shared Strength is doubled and will always be applied at its maximum value, regardless of if the Bond Partners are together or not. Can only be used once per combat.\\

Looking at the card there wasn't much of a change to it. Though if held up to the light in a certain way Kara was able to see a love heart in the center of the card. She also learned that she had somehow gained a new power thanks to making things with Haley. All the more better she still had lots of work ahead as to where she'd like things to be at. After looking at the cards was done Kara then looked at what other powers she could also gain.

For a long time she eyed the Surrender to Darkness and more. Then once Kara was tempted to reach out and take hold of that power as her own. Yet Kara's willpower was helping her out as some memories from the old world resurfaced. Allowing Kara to remember times when she had gone crazy. Doing something similar and had really scared Holly it wasn't something she wanted to do again. So Kara looked at the five other powers being offered.

While the others did seem interesting Kara finally made her mind and decided. Upon the Steeled Resolve power.

After observing the choice of powers on display, Kara briefly considered picking Surrender to Darkness, but thought against it due to how it had previously been regarded as far too intense for Holly. Instead, Kara decided upon Steeled Resolve.

With Kara having fully made up her mind on the Steeled Resolve. Power that she wished to have the other five cards had then vanished. Leaving Kara alone with just Haley's bond card sitting on the table. She again looked at it again for a little while even going as far as to after getting that finished sitting in the chair. Almost waiting to see if Charon would show up at all or anything.

But he was a no show and Kara got up and left the room.

Finalising her decision, Kara accepted the power of Steeled Resolve. The card merged into her Bond Card, adding its strength alongside the other powers contained within. The rest of the options disappeared, leaving the table clear once more. Kara waited around in the office to see if its owner returned. However, Charon remained absent. Having no further business there, Kara returned back to the material realm.