At first, everyone’s words went unheard by Rebeca. She too consumed by the turmoil within her own thoughts, her eyes locked on Maya. In another first for the day, the little Kabuto had actually ran from her. Not that Rebeca could blame her, it was obvious that her temperature had risen too far to be comfortable for anyone to remain in extended contact with. Still, the last time that Maya had tried to flee from her was back when they first met. Since then she had been careful to make sure that Maya was away from her [u]before[/u] she heated up. 

As she watched the Chingling (who was even smaller than Maya, which would likely be a first for her) attempted to engage with the Shellfish Pokemon, Rebeca turned Mihkail’s words over and over in her head. The truth was, she didn’t trust herself to stop. When she dipped into herself, let that heat emerge, it felt [u]good[/u]. She didn’t feel any fear, hate, nothing. Emotion was pushed to the edges of her thoughts, thrust aside by pure warmth. And she [u]liked[/u] it, she really did. 

If she couldn’t trust herself, how in all the hells could anyone else? 

Her eyes shifted to Mihkail, who had remained entirely focused her, lightly growling as he waited for her answer. What did he know about her that she didn’t? What had she ever done to deserve such faith? 

Finally her shoulders dropped, and her entire body sagged slightly in defeat. It seemed that something, either her obstinate brother or some other force working in concert, was determined to have her involved with this pack of flamboyant weirdos. If she backed out now, there would probably be something else that would pull her back in. Dropping to one knee, she held out her hand, causing Maya to chitter in delight and scramble to rub her smooth shell against Rebeca’s palm. She glanced at Mihkail with a cross between a grimace and a dry smirk. [i][color=red]If this goes tits up because of me, it’s [b]your[/b] fault.[/color][/i]

The Spike Pokemon went quiet and settled down, magnanimous in his victory. [i][color=e25822]Deal. Now be polite and tell the man your name.[/color][/i]

She glanced to Kaze as she picked up Maya in her arms, careful not to hold her too close to her body. “[color=red]Rebeca. [b]Just[/b] Rebeca.[/color]” She then turned towards Vuduin and jerked her chin in his direction. "[color=red]You mentioned something about dinner? Been a while since I ate, s'long as these two can come with.[/color]" 

Towards Tantalus, she gave no indication she had even noticed him. Anyone who acted that smug didn't deserve the recognition.