[u]Poppy[/u]

Thankfully Red let go of her hand, Poppy made sure to to retract it too hastily. She looked up at him expectantly "so now what?" He seemed to be scanning the other tables. [i]I wonder how long he's been here, or if he's new too.[/i] Based on what he had to say next she guessed the latter.

"Oh." Was all Poppy initially had to say. [i]Why do I have to make the decision?[/i] Normally she was all about being in charge, but right now she was so nerve wracked that she would rather remain put than try either of the options he presented. Going after Nikki would be too weird, so by simple process of elimination there was only one good option.

"I guess I can try my luck with the others again... and maybe Nikki will come back." Poppy wasn't so easily convinced that anyone at the table could relate to her. [i]How long has he known her?[/i] Regardless she didn't know anyone other him so it was worth a shot.

Now that she was regaining her composure hunger returned. She was reminded of this by audibly as well shortly after. There was almost no chance Red didn't hear. No real reason to hide it anyways. "Wherever were going to go I should get some more food."

[u]Vespera[/u]

It was a surprise to say the least that someone like this girl would stand up for another so quickly. Especially one like Alex. [i]Morticia. That's a new one.[/i] An amused smile played across her face as she folded her hands together and focused intently on Lynn. At the same time she could see some of the light leave Alex, both literally and figuratively. In all honesty all she cared about was stopping her blinding light. She should be able to sit at the table without such discomforts.

"It's a shame to hear that. I could refer you to the shrink if you like." Vespera feigned a tone of concern. The girl seemed mighty sure of herself. [i]I wonder if she's really that strong, or just foolish.[/i] Her message had the hint of a threat and her demeanor backed it up. One of the things that Vespera didn't take lightly. Most anything else she could play along with, however if she continued along this line she'd better be ready to put up.

Vespera made an exaggerated exhalation. "Ah, I feel so much better now! I'm sure we'll get alone fine and dandy now so long as the light levels stay under control."  That would have been a good point to stop, but Lynn kept on going. So much playing nice. She even had the arrogance to resume her conversation like nothing happened. [i]Never turn your back on an opponent.[/i] Looked like she had her first line up for the season, a potential challenge assuming she wasn't just flapping her gums.

[i]So she thinks I'm a wannabe vampire. Perhaps she'd like to experience hematophagy first hand. On second though she probably tastes like shit, damn lowlife.[/i] "Is that a promise? If you think you can deliver on it meet me at the arena after class tomorrow. Then you can witness what I do on my free time for yourself." She added a sultry undertone to play off her suggestion and to show that she wasn't taking her too seriously.

The laughter of the other fresh meat didn't concern her. This had been an annual routine for years now. Each new batch had those that felt they were all that. In her mind the sooner they got called on their bullshit the better.

There was nothing more to say to Alex as long as she didn't slip up again.