FanPort 2019 | OPEN

[heliophilic]

WHO: All imPort Con-goers and Guests
WHERE: Heropa Convention Center
WHEN: June 14-16, 9 AM - 2 AM
WHAT: Fifth Annual FanPort, the nation's largest, wildly popular imPort convention
WARNINGS: None anticipated; PM me if this needs to be updated

Heropa has always been a pretty imPort-friendly city, but the energy in the air surrounding the Heropa Convention Center seems to be taking it to the next level, with lines of enthusiastic people snaking around multiple blocks surrounding the gigantic building. One glance at the enormous banner draped over the side of said building makes it clear what all the fuss is about:

WELCOME TO THE ONE AND ONLY
FANPORT
Darin Altway's Masterworks, Medieval Festival, The Maurtia Falls Wrestling League, SELF, & Project Walkway -- Official Sponsors
ImPorts don't have to worry about dealing with that line though. As an imPortantVIP, volunteers will quickly usher them to the building while the crowds they're cutting cheer (after all, these are the very same people they're here to celebrate). Anyone who wishes to wait a while and mingle with their waiting fans are certainly welcome to do so, and for the imPorts who would rather not deal with all the attention, there's a secret side entrance they'll be shown to instead.

Once inside, they'll be given their imPortantVIP badge on a special golden lanyard, a schedule, and given free reign of the convention center. That is, if throngs of fans ever let them leave the lobby.

ARTISTS ALLEY

The crown jewel of FanPort is back and bigger than ever, located in the second-largest part of the convention center. What would normally be a large, open space is positively packed to the gills with creative fans new and old looking to show off their latest imPort-themed creations. The talents of these artists run the gamut from traditional and digital artists to screen printers to jewelry makers to prop makers to sculptors and beyond.

Almost anything imaginable can be found among these tables. A minuscule sampling of which include: Erotic fan-art of Rupert von Hentzau and Lucifer Morningstar, multi-book comics featuring the adventures of Futaba and Fuu, coffee mugs with Walter Strickler's face on them, Jonathan Walsh-themed t-shirts, multiple fanworks featuring Darin and Allura, keychains of Sora's Keyblade, Anthy Himemiya dress up paper dolls, Apollo frisbees, body pillows of Poe Dameron, sculptures of Pidge's Green Lion, replica Wolverine claws, Fern Chia pets, papier-mâché opera masks based on reclusive nighttime hero The Phantom, inflatable Luke Skywalker lightsabers, Detective Pikachu plushies, Cecelia phone charms, Woden voodoo dolls, and balloons of Kylo Ren with the inflatable part located in an... unfortunate part of its anatomy.

In general imPort merchandise, there are pokeballs, Guess Who-style games featuring multiple prominent imPorts, and a line of imPort-themed "thirst shirts" with logos like "ImpILF" and "imPure" emblazoned proudly on them. Also for some reason, yaoi paddles have decided to make a comeback, only instead of wood they are made out of NERF-like foam material (so only marginally better, yay?).

Even some of the imPorts seem to be getting in on the action, as Catra has secured herself a table selling her personally created creations to interested customers.

Artists will happily give their subjects a discount on their merchandise... if they ever stop squeeing or dying from embarrassment that senpai noticed them.

IMPORT HALL

For the imPorts looking to get away from the sheer myriad of fan-based imPort merchandise can head to imPort hall, where "official" is the name of the game. The hall is divided into three distinct areas:

Area 1

Home to a variety of vendors looking to sell more "official" imPort merchandise. Dozens of vendors are selling wigs, costumes, and other accessories allowing for quick and easy cosplay options. A charity for survivors of imPort incidents are looking to spread awareness of their cause, and collecting donations for survivor's medical bills, both through straight-up donations and by the sale of sixteen month calendars (August 2019 - December 2020) featuring photos of Aegis Force. Book vendors and publishers are selling imPort-written books, authorized and unauthorized biographies, and miscellaneous other fiction works with just enough facts changed to avoid being sued. The publishers in particular are always looking for new imPort talent to sign under them, no writing talent required... and a few of them are very pushy on this point.

Area 2

Looking to bank on the extreme popularity and success of FanPort, large corporations have set up shop in imPort hall. Most of these places are smart, and know that the con goers don't give a damn about them or their business, so instead they offer "fun experiences" in the hopes of increasing brand recognition. Things like mini Escape Rooms, imPort-themed photo ops, VR demonstrations, and swag (so, so much swag) can all be found here.

Area 3

The largest area of them all--the imPortant area (their bad pun very much intended). Here, imPort-run businesses and organizations (as well as enterprising individuals) are given prime real estate to show off whatever it is they care about. Import-run booths have been divided into four categories, and are promoted both on the the FanPort app and in their con guide as follows:

BUSINESSES

► Darin Altway's Masterworks (Official FanPort Sponsor) (Booth #742) Your one-stop shop for expertly crafted, personalized gear, equipment, and tools! Do you want to give your props an extra, authentic oomph? Darin Altway's Masterworks has a wide variety of non-lethal replicas and props of existing imPort weapons. Do you want your gear crafted by a true expert? Forgemaster Altway and Allura will be showcasing gear crafted by a true expert.	► Medieval Festival (Official FanPort Sponsor) (Booth #1317) For anyone looking to take a break from the trials and tribulations of modern life and slow things down, medieval-style, the Medieval Festival welcomes you. The festival's resident imPort Mollymauk Tealeaf is on hand to give FanPort attendees just the tiniest taste of what a trip to the 'Fest is like. Molly will also be available for tarot card readings for the FanPort exclusive price of $2 per reading.
► De Chima Citizen (Booth #1273) The De Chima Citizen is proud to welcome imPort Iris West as its newest Editor-in-Chief. For 90 years, The De Chima Citizen has striven for journalistic excellence and for a better balance of imPort and local perspective on the crises and stories going on in this world, and there was no one better to guide the paper in an even bolder direction. Additionally, Ms. West will be signing copies of her book Florida Man Strikes Again throughout the weekend. Use special convention code 'FANPORT2K19' for 25% off a year's subscription.	► After the End Times (Booth #1340) Come learn about After the End Times, a blog filled with of news, action, and more that remains proudly independent from governmental or organizational interference. Anyone looking for a site that promotes and believes in true, independent reporting need to make sure they see ImPorts Georgia and Shaun Mason, for more information, or to purchase a membership to the site. For any interested FanPort attendees--they are hiring. Exclusive FanPort t-shirts featuring the blog's logo and Shaun Mason's face will be available for sale.
► Project Walkway (Official FanPort Sponsor) (Booth #1203) Looking to be a part of the glamorous life? Official FanPort Sponsor Project Walkway will be holding auditions throughout the weekend to locate the next great talent since imPort Allison Hargreeves (surprise last-minute feature for their Summer Limited Edition Magazine). Anyone interested is encouraged to bring bring a portfolio with resume, headshots, and examples previous work. For anyone not sure if modelling is for them, Project Walkway will also be selling back issues of their publications, and well as subscriptions at a discounted convention special price!	► Ar-éadbair (Booth #1109) A one-stop shop for any FanPort attendee with truly sophisticated tastes looking to snag a special, one-of-a-kind creation. Created from imPorts Ronan Lynch's dreams and nightmares, these objects of supernatural origin are frightening and beautiful to behold. DISCLAIMER: None of the creations sold by Ar-éadbair at FanPort contain any properties or abilities. These creations are purely for display purposes only.

ORGANIZATIONS

► The Maurtia Falls Wrestling League (Official FanPort Sponsor) (Booth #934) Are you ready to rumble? Because the merry wrestlers of Maurtia Falls sure are. Come on down to booth 934 to see larger than life fights, dazzling lights, and, of course, very tight tights! In addition to promoting their regular televised show featuring the sweeping stories you've come to expect of them, the Maurtia Falls Wrestling League is here to let you get a little more hands-on with the art of wrestling, with wrestling training and demonstrations open to tykes and adults alike, as guided by our very own imPort Magnus Burnsides as I'Morko the Bear. And if none of that appeals to you, then surely the open wardrobe will; this is your chance to truly awaken to your wrestlesonas.

► SELF (Official FanPort Sponsor) (Booth #1286) The Sentient Life Fund (SELF), the Heropa-based non-profit, has returned to continue bringing awareness to FanPort attendees that not all imPorts can automatically adapt to our incredible world. For those that can't, SELF assists with things like food, health care, housing, education, and training for their spectacular abilities. ImPort Kang and a variety of volunteers will be manning the booth and handing out free pens, coasters, cards, and other kinds of swag. You can also spin the wheel for a chance to win a t-shirt, hat, water bottle, or shot glass, all emblazoned with their new logo. And while you're here, consider donating to their cause. ImPorts bring us so much joy - it's time to return the favor.

SELF-PROMOTION

► Proinsias Cassidy (Booth #1145) Meet imPort Proinisas Cassidy, available at select times over the weekend (visit booth #1145 or the FanPort app for times). Prices for Cassidy are as follows: $20 for a photo or autograph, or $30 for both. 25% of the proceeds will go to helping fund blood donation drives.

► Klaus Hargreeves (Booth #1055) Meet imPort Klaus Hargreeves, available at select times over the weekend (visit booth #1055 or the FanPort app for times). Prices for Klaus are as follows: $10 for a kiss, $15 for an autograph, $20 for a photo, and $25 for a photo involving a kiss.

► Abigail Hobbs (Booth #922) Meet imPort and Musician Abigail Hobbs at select times over the weekend (visit booth #922 or the FanPort app for times). CDs and digital codes of her music, as well as t-shirts, posters, and more will be available for purchase. Abigail will autograph any purchase.

► Kylo Ren (Booth #1011) Meet imPort and Poet Kylo Ren at select times over the weekend. Copies of a FanPop-exclusive version of his collected works will be available in a "darker than vantablack" cover. These exclusive books are an Ar-éadbair creation. Kylo will autograph and otherwise personalize purchases on request. Limited photo opportunities will be available (visit booth #1011 or the FanPort app for times).

FOOD

► Tina's Burgers (Booth #765) Our very own beloved imPort youth, Tina Belcher, will be bringing her love of burgers straight to our hall! She'll be offering up a variety of delicious burgers to the hungry FanPort community - including vegetarian and vegan patty options for those who need them. Tina is known for her inventive cuisine, but if that's not enough to sway you, her way with words will! It's worth a gander if only to see what punny names she'll come up with next.

For anyone not in the mood for hamburgers, ImPort Hall is also home to your standard, overpriced con food (that does it's best to be imPort-themed, though some might say that it's being a little generous), with little booths scattered throughout each area.

SPEED DATING

New to FanPort this year is Speed Dating. Inspired by that creepy house that took some people hostage a few months back (but with none of the trauma and all of the fun, organizers hope!), one of the largest panel rooms has been set up with two rows long tables for people to make their love connection. 5 minutes are all they get to try to get to know the lucky person and make that spark. Succeed, and they're free to hand out their number. Fail and... well, there's always the next person.

Unlike the aforementioned creepy house, daters are free to leave at any time. Additionally, con staff are on hand to ensure that everyone is comfortable, and won't hesitate to kick out any creeps or troublemakers.

Who will be the first FanPort couple?

COSPLAY

Though not necessarily a specific event, cosplay is a staple at any convention and FanPort is no different. Enterprising fans from all over have shown up to show off their stuff, ranging from the "closet cosplay", to the "cardboard box armor", to the "so-detailed-you'd-swear-they-stole-it-from-the-imPorts-closet" pro, to the "AU", to the increasingly popular "random noun + imPort". Cosplayers will excitedly take pictures with the imPorts and/or their friends, and might even go out of their way to seek them out.

ImPorts are also encouraged to get in on the action and dress up as their friends, worst enemies, or even total strangers. They can even sign up for the costume contest--barring that they don't enter as themselves, and don't use magic to change their appearance.

PANELS

Littered throughout the extremities of the convention center, rooms of various sizes have been set aside for a variety of guest speakers to show off their imPort knowledge to eager guests. Detailed information about each panel can be found on large boards beside each room, or download the official FanPort app.

► Heroing and You A must-see panel for anyone looking to make a difference in their community, regardless of whether or not you have a costume in your closet. The panel will explain how the average person can help around the community, and that not all heroes wear capes. Audience participation is encouraged. Starring imPort guest: Nightfall.	► Public Safety in the Porter Cities with Aegis Force Learn tips on how to stay safe and help others during a crisis from members of Aegis Force! Hear thrilling stories of their adventures and find out more about how the team works to serve people during the Q&A. Starring imPort guests: Jacob Taylor, Lester Papadopoulos, and Darin Altway.
► Fun with Field Safety: Know Your Exits and Don't Get Dead Advice about field situations, recognizing danger signs, knowing the terrain, paying attention, keeping your head, and learning to recognize calculated risks and just plain bad choices. An interactive experience. Starring imPort guests: Shaun Mason and Georgia Mason.	► How to Stay Alive While Hunting The Unknown and Finding Things Come learn more about imPort Harry Dresden's work as a private investigator and wizard hunting that which hunts others... Both humans hunting monsters and monsters hunting humans. Attendees will receive valuable advice about dealing with alien cultures, and what to do when sometimes you just get outclassed. Starring imPort guest: Harry Dresden.
► Journalistic Integrity: How to Report Responsibility A lecture on the importance of truthful an independent reporting, even in world's that haven't been effected by a zombie apocalypse. Topics will include: protecting your sources and ethical dilemmas about whether or not it's appropriate to take to print, and finding the line between maintaining privacy and withholding the truth. It will also feature a special press-themed history lesson into Georgia and Shaun's world and how the mainstream news' hiding of incidents related to "the Rising" led to massive casualties, and how indie blogs spreading the truth kept their world from complete annihilation. Starring imPort guests: Georgia Mason and Shaun Mason.	► Monster or Man? What's the real difference between heroes and villains, and who gets to decide? Using imPort Adam, son of Frankenstein (those who refer to him as a monster will be removed from the panel room) as an example, the current officers of Adam's fan club invite the audience to join them as they discuss what matters more, an imPort's deeds in their own world or the future they make for themselves here; the role of a parent in shaping one's destiny; and the ethics of creating artificial life. The roundtable will be followed by a PowersPoint presentation of the best Adam fanart and a step-by-step guide to drawing attractively placed stitch marks. Starring imPort guest: Adam, the Modern Prometheus.
► Personal Space 101: How Not To Get Scratched or Otherwise Injured by Simply Minding Your Own Business A lecture on the importance of respecting personal boundaries, why suddenly walking up to someone and petting them is inappropriate (regardless of how cute they may appear), and other helpful life lessons that should have already been learned. Visual aids will be provided. Starring imPort guest: Catra.	► Kids Today: A Gathering for imPort Teens & Tweens Growing up is hard. Growing up in a different world as a celebrity with superpowers is harder. ImPort Youths are invited to join this low-key talk and group Q&A session about concerns many of them have at this age, whether it involves going on a first date with someone who could be ported out without warning, the rights and expectations they have back home from that differ from those of kids and teens on Earth, and, you know. Puberty questions. Sponsored by the Heropa Community Center.
► Abigail Hobbs Live! Abigail Hobbs will be performing selections from her albums on harpsichord, to take listeners on an emotional musical journey. Starring imPort guest: Abigail Hobbs.	► Poetry/Emotion - The Verse Hearse Presents: Kylo Ren imPort poet Kylo Ren will be reading a selection of works previously featured in the Verse Hearse, offering unique insight into his personal experience of the creative process, inspiration and intention through a Q&A session. Kylo Ren will not be signing autographs at this time. Starring imPort guest: Kylo Ren.
► Welcome to Earth — Tales and Trials of Intergalactic Culture Shock "Why would a fish need an education?" SpacePorts are invited to share their experiences adjusting to life on Earth, whether it's their funniest misunderstandings, their rants about how much the weather cycles bother them, or confessions of what they love most about this weird little planet. Starring imPort guest: Allura.	► Cybertronian Q&A Ask everything you've always wanted to know about Cybertronian life and culture. Note: The panel will be held outside (due to KO's size). Starring imPort guest: Knock Out.
► More Than Laser Swords - A Lightsaber Demonstration A discussion of Jedi Lightsaber philosophy, techniques, and maneuvers. Includes live demonstrations from several lightsaber combat experts! Learn about these beautiful and dangerous weapons and the history behind them. Sign ups for classes at the Rattlin’ Sabers Fencing Academy will also be available. Starring imPort guests: Obi-Wan Kenobi, Luke Skywalker, Anakin Skywalker, Kanan Jarrus.

MEMORIAL

Inspired by the Ted Kord Memorial Centre run by Jaime Reyes, organizers have set aside a large room situated in the far end of the convention center, with a large sign above it reading "In Remembrance" above its entrance. Before being allowed to enter the space, con goers are given a speech explaining the purpose of the space is for anyone to remember the port outs, and are told to respect the space accordingly.

Inside, the space is set up with walls upon walls of photographs and miscellaneous articles left behind by various imPorts. Notable events featuring ported heroes also adorn these walls, with benches evenly spaced throughout for quiet reflection. ImPorts are encouraged to learn about the imPorts that came before them, or remember a friend gone back home. Between the exhibits, blank canvases have been spread so visitors can leave memories or messages to those ported out.

The speech given to everyone before they are allowed to enter is not one to be taken lightly--con staff are around to ensure the solemnity of the space is kept, and will be throwing out anyone who causes a scene or otherwise disrespects the space.

RAVE

As is the case with any good convention, FanPort hosts several different raves on both Friday and Sunday nights (there is no rave on Saturday) in several of the larger panel rooms. Enjoy packed crowds, loud music, and (if you're over 21) alcoholic beverages from the bar.

Oh, and glow sticks. So many glow sticks. Anyone who didn't arrive with a glow stick will soon find themselves with one before they know it, whether they want it or not. It just happens.

VOLLEYBALL

Apollo (the taller one) and Poe Dameron (you know who he is) have decided that the imPorts should come together in the name of a volleyball tournament, Top Gun style. Or maybe not Top Gun style. They haven't really decided. Anyway, run into them at any point during the weekend, or sign up at the booth located in the imPort Hall that may or may not be manned. Sunday will be Volleyball time. Don't miss it.

BALLPIT

In honor(?) of the 5th anniversary, the organizers of FanPort have inexplicably brought back a staple(?) from the first two FanPorts: the ballpit. Seemingly dumped in a random back corner of the imPort hall, no one running the convention seems to know why its there. Like in previous cons, the budget seems to have run out before anything involving the ballpit was concerned. Most con goers seem to be actively avoiding it. The whole thing just kind of gives off a sad, pathetic aura, and standing too close to the ballpit may make anyone feel worse about themselves or their life choices.

But hey, at least it's a quiet spot in a sea of craziness?

[OOC: If you have any questions, or if I somehow missed anything, please let me know here! Happy FanPort everyone!]

Comments

VOLLEYBALL

[flightforfreedom]

[ HELLO VOLLEYBALLERS. That's totally a word. Anyway, the teams have been assigned, so here are the rules:

2 vs 2, Top Gun Style. The games are played outside in a sand pit under the hot Heropa sun, and shirts are optional but highly frowned upon. Each game you are assigned a new partner, and play against a different opposing team. Please see the spreadsheet below for team ups!

Trash talk before the game is highly encouraged. You don't actually have to thread out the games, but we recommend contacting the other players to at least decide who won the match so that you can also trash talk them after the game. Thirst is also highly encouraged.

Please feel free to put threads under this header, or make your own threads elsewhere and just link them under here so people can stalk you. ]

TK-622

[loyal_soldier]

[Game 1: Teamed up with Archie against Cassidy and Magnus
Game 2: Teamed up with Apollo against Archie and Finn
Game 3: Teamed up with Andy against M and Riptide]

1. Good, Clean Fun

Normally, 622 covers up. He spent his whole life in armor, so that's what feels most natural to him. But on Earth, things are a little different: namely, none of the clothes are actually protective at all.

So really, there's no difference to him whether he's covered head to toe, or wearing a small pair of shorts and nothing else.

No difference except the sunlight. He's got enough color to him that even his sun-starved skin can make it through a good few hours of Heropa weather without trouble, but he's been here long enough to have had at least one rude encounter with the concept of sunburn.

So he's brought a bottle of sunscreen, big enough to share.

"Do you need any?" He holds out the bottle.

Also, he's going to need someone to help him with his back...

2. Team-up!

He's probably got this. He's read all seventy-two pages of Official Beach Volleyball Rules 2017-2020, approved by the 35th congress of the Féderation Internationale de Volleyball, so that's got to count for something.

Of course it seems like most of the rules are being tossed out the airlock as per usual, so the only thing he's certain of is "don't let the ball touch the sand", and "don't touch the net while you're trying to mash the ball into someone's face."

Or into the ground, but given some of the people there--including him--the face thing is a distinct possibility.

So. Here he is. This is the first public event he's attended since he had brain surgery. Time to meet up with his teammate.

3. Meeting the other team

622 comes from a rigidly hierarchical system, where improper comportment can ruin you. He's frequently guarded his commander at public and formal events, where just about everyone outranks him.

He can be respectful.

If that's how they're playing it. He might generally be polite and proper, but he's military. There will always be trash-talk between the branches.

So come at him and he'll fire back like you're Army.

"Good luck." He doesn't believe in luck, but if you do, well. Good luck.

4. The Game

This is his first time handling a volleyball. The relatively small pitch and the sand beneath his feet aren't familiar either.

But the Porter saw fit to give him a power that preternaturally enhances his aim. While he might not know whether someone will make it to intercept his shots, they will always go precisely where he wants them to. He can give you the perfect lay-up, pop the ball up and over into a far corner, or augur it hard towards the sand if he gets a good angle.

And he will shake hands with the other side at the end, no matter the outcome.

2!

[h2no]

Archie is delighted when he sees who he's paired with. He laughs, running forward and scoops 622 up into his arms, swinging him around, then setting him back down onto the sand.

"Yo, 622! We're gonna wreck them all, huh?!"

[loyal_soldier]

He was not expecting to be picked up. "Oof!" is his initial comment.

But by the time he's put back down, he's smiling. "They don't stand a chance against us. Especially not with that kind of muscle power," he gives Archie a friendly smack on the arm.

He'd known Archie was stocky, but wow. Definitely hadn't expected that.

2, game 2

[solarcharged]

Apollo will be the first to admit that the length and breadth of his volleyball knowledge comes from Top Gun and the Sydney Olympics back in 2000 but that isn't going to hold him back. Holding back would be the opposite of the Top Gun ethos. Cheerfully dressed in a bright yellow t-shirt emblazoned with the words 'SUNS OUT, GUNS OUT' he offers 622 a warm handshake as he heads across the sands to meet his team mate for this round.

"Hey, you're 622 right? We somehow haven't met yet." He grins hazily. "I'm Apollo. Hi."

[loyal_soldier]

He's starting to get the hang of this. Maybe. It's good exercise regardless, and it's always an excellent idea to team up with others to annihilate the competition.

Even if he was just paired up with one of his new rivals five minutes ago. Sorry Archie, but all's fair in war and volleyball.

Time to meet his new teammate. "That's right," he shakes Apollo's hand. "Good to meet you. Do you need water?" He probably should have some himself. And Apollo looks pretty pale for being out in this much sun. That sunscreen stuff must actually be doing its job, he supposes.

omg 1

[hatejakku]

"Yes, actually." He had just been walking by, his shirt still on, when 622 asked. Finn was pretty confident his scar would burn a lot worse than the rest of his skin which was, much like 622's, not totally acclimated with sunlight yet. And they were sure to be out here long enough that he'd end up burned somehow.

He's just grateful that basic skin care was part of his survival training.

"Thanks," he says with a smile, taking the bottle but doesn't do anything yet. "You need help?"

hello i am free from the clutches of my six-month committee meeting and READY FOR SUN SCREEN SHENANS

[loyal_soldier]

"Take as much as you need. There's enough in this thing for a whole squad." It was 'family-sized', which was approximately the same thing.

His own skin relatively free of major scars, though that was due to the Porter stepping in rather than anything else. He had what he considered "normal" scars: burns, abrasions and shrapnel marks, mostly around areas the plates didn't cover. As good as the bodyglove could be, it still wasn't enough sometimes. Particularly with how he'd approached his duties: head-on and with an appropriate lack of self-preservation.

But surviving all that had required working with others to get the job done. ...And, occasionally, his problems were more low-key than life-or-death. "I'm not sure I can get all of my back done right." He's limber enough for whatever's needed for a trooper, but... "Never had much call to reach between my own shoulder blades before."

Audience

[stlg13bomber]

[Carter didn't sign up for the game, since he already knows how to play volleyball and wants to do more things he's never done before (like dating). However, he does stop by to do some cheering on for the people he knows and then just cheering in general. It makes for a good place to eat his overexpensive con lunch, too.]

[flightforfreedom]

[ Because of the number of sign ups, Poe's out for the third game, so he happily joins the audience, sitting down next to Carter and shooting him a grin. He is, of course, wearing nothing more than he was while he was playing - a very small pair of black shorts with the words HOT STUFF written in bright orange across the ass. He's also covered in scars, but he doesn't seem to notice or mind them. ]

Hey, Carter. Enjoying the view?

[stlg13bomber]

[Carter raises his drink to Poe and beams.] Yeah, they're pretty good at this! [The game. That's what people are here for. The sportsmanship.] I just got done with my speed dating so I figured I'd come here and watch while I had lunch. How's the tournament going for you?

ANDY (OPEN)

[killtime]

GAME 1 | Andy & M vs Poe & Apollo
GAME 2 | Andy & Nightfall vs Yato & Bodhi
GAME 3 | Andy & 622 vs M & Riptide

BEFORE THE GAMES:
[ Andy only vaguely remembers what the rules of volleyball are. Hit the ball with your arms? Don't let it hit the sand? Something like that. She figures if she aims for her opponents straight on, they're less likely to get the ball back to her — and who needs to know the rules when you've got precision violence as a tactic, right? Besides, she's surprisingly spry for almost seven thousand years old — she'll probably be fine. Probably.

Which is why she isn't bothering to stretch or warm-up. In fact, she's just standing there on the sideline in her bikini, smoking a cigarette. Is that even allowed? At the very least, it doesn't make her look much like an athlete. ]


AFTER THE GAMES:
[ Win or lose, Andy probably played dirty as much as she could get away with. It's a dog eat dog world out there, even in beach volleyball, and she doesn't fucking play to lose. But if she did lose, it's cool — she'll get over it. Right after she punts the volleyball off to where the fuck ever. Sorry if you happen to be in that ball's trajectory!

If she wins, the victory flask comes out. Where was she keeping that? In her bikini bottom somewhere? It's a fucking mystery, and she seems less inclined to explain than to drink. Gotta stay hydrated in all that heat, right? ]

CLOSED: Andy, M, Apollo, & Poe

[killtime]

[ Frankly, it's a blessing that Andy isn't particularly endowed. Otherwise those Midnighter logo pasties might be a little more inappropriate than they already are. It's a distinct "uniform" either way. Intimidation tactic, maybe? Just for kicks? Who the fuck even knows why, but the dynamic duo of M and Andy — announced as Team "Good Christian Values" — arrives on the court barely dressed.

Andy is, of course, smoking a cigarette, balancing it at the corner of her lips as she sweeps all that long dark hair back from her face. If she's putting her hair up, at least it means she's taking it at least half-way seriously.

Wryly, at M: ]

Everybody loves a good husband-wife team-up.

[heliophilic]

[For M's part, he's forgone the Andy costume and is, instead, wearing a speedo with his logo over the ass... and nothing else. He runs a hand through his mohawk as he grins.]

We're one with the lord now, wife. We should take these two to church.

[Bad pun, doesn't care. He's living his best speedo life.]

After the games

[golisolation]

[Guzma doesn't know shit about Volleyball. Or sports, really. Alola was more about wrestling, and even then Guzma had little interest. Especially when his ex-mentor was of the wrestling sort, and we won't even talk about Kukui, he's not a great topic for the Skull Boss anyway. Point is, Guzma has no fucking idea what's going on, other than the fact that Andy's in a bikini, bouncing around, and hitting a ball.

Does anything else truly matter? He thinks not.

So, this jackass is just on the sidelines, drinking from a brown paper bag (that's cheap ass whiskey), watching with dubious interest towards the game (it's not the game he's watching), but when it comes to its conclusion, he has no idea who won or loss. Not till that ball is sent sailing off towards him, right as he's about to call out to Andy. What sound he meant to make probably wasn't the very sudden and loud—]

—GHHCK!!

[But hey, that's what he gets, right? It makes him full body stumble back, and it's fortunate that it hit him right in the face! Because if it was any higher, his poor glasses might have been broken! Not that they didn't get sent flying into the sand from the force of impact when his head whipped back and the ball bounced off.

The damn thing hit him square in the nose. So when he brings his hand to his face to cup the spot of impact—there's blood. He pulls his hand back to look at it for a second, before putting it back to try to contain it.

THANKS ANDY!]

[killtime]

[ Honestly, she probably wouldn't have even bothered to check who got hit by that rogue volleyball, except for the fact that her victim makes such an extraordinary noise that even unflappable Andy can't help but notice. It takes her a second, but it's hard not to recognize Guzma — he has a look that's distinctly him. Easy to recognize, even in a crowd. Hell. They're officially drinking buddies now, aren't they, so she supposes she should go make sure he won't bleed to death or anything.

She comes over from the court, approaching him without so much as a how do you do. No greeting, no niceties — she just impatiently bats his hands away from his face, catching him by the front of his shirt to tug him down to eye level with her so she can check and see if his nose is broken.

Wryly, her decree: ]

You'll live.

CLOSED: Andy & Archo

[killtime]

[ Gods forbid that Andy pass up an opportunity to give Archie shit. So when she notices the way that Archie's been giving Magnus those not-so-subtle dreamy looks across the court, it's practically her sworn duty to call him out on it the second his match is done. She comes up beside him, nudging him amicably with her elbow as she teases wryly: ]

Should I be jealous? You never look at me like that.

[h2no]

Hi, Andy.

[he says, crossing his arms and looking over at her.

archie doesn't actually know who andy is referring to, but... he'll give her shit back.]

Rex? Your husband? Aye, I'm just working out how to romance him right out from under ya.

Finn | OTA

[hatejakku]

Game 1: w/ Bodhi vs. Darrin & Kanaya
Game 2: w/ Archie vs. Apollo & 622
Game 3: w/ Ruby vs. Magnus & Bodhi

A. Before the Game

[ Finn's successfully lathered himself down with sunscreen and doesn't feel too bad about showing his scar, the one on his back reaching from his hip to the opposite shoulder, in public... Well, okay, it does feel weird, like a sign that blatantly stands out. Even the scar on his front, the one on his shoulder, is enough to make anyone stare.

But this was supposed to be a fun, outdoors... thing and, dammit, he was going shirtless like everyone else. He was also making the rounds to his opponents, wishing them good luck. ]

B. During the Game | Playing Nice

[ Finn, unsurprisingly, finds that he enjoys the sport. He hadn't played it before so isn't too terribly focused on winning, but he's having fun. Most of it's about having a good time and laughing, so this is good.

He even finds himself trying to make daring combo moves with his teammate before every match as if they need that. But it's fun! ]

C. During the Game | Playing Dirty

[ What's not so fun is the first time he catches his opponents cheating by using their powers. That's not fair! He decides that he can either tell the ref and be a buzzkill or... join in. After all, he can teleport.

He doesn't do it a lot and it certainly isn't flashy. Just a couple of inches every time, just enough to give him the extra push he needs to spike a ball or make a killer defense. Once he starts getting comfortable, though, it's clearer and clearer that he's definitely cheating.

That's okay. If he gets caught, he's got blackmail at the ready. ]

a! before their game

[h2no]

[archie seems to just want to get shirtless at damn near any opportunity. he saunters over to finn, bare feet soft on the sand. like finn, he's scarred-- though unlike finn 90% of them were definitely after shouting "watch this!", other than the one on his arm that finn himself had helped heal. as he speaks, he bounces his pecs, because...

well. archie's just Like That.]

Yo! You ready to annihilate?!

[hatejakku]

[ He noticed the bouncing pecs. Fascinating, truly.

But, uh- Finn smirked, suppressing a laugh. Annihilation wasn't on the agenda today, but you know what? ] Absolutely! They're all toast.

[burlyboy]

[ It appears that Finn is in good company on the scars part of affairs. Magnus had made a big show of literally ripping off his shirt and now that he's good and oiled up, his scars are on full display - and he has a lot of them, big, ugly, knotted things coiled on his shoulder and across his chest, matching his scarred face perfectly. Unlike Finn, who just appears to be trying to get by, he's outright peacocking it, flexing and waggling his eyebrows at anyone who happens to be taking an interest. When there's a wolf whistle, he whistles right back.

This is a man who's comfortable in his own skin. ]

You must be Finn! [ He booms as Finn comes 'round, immediately reaching out to heartily clasp his hand in a way that seems straight out of an action movie. ] You ready for this?

[hatejakku]

[ Finn smiles wide, clasping hands with who he assumes must be Magnus. He also can't but notice and be awed by how the other flaunts his scars. Finn wants to be that way, too.

... Perhaps he could be! ]

I'm absolutely ready to win, thanks for asking.

[ He also decides that he likes this guy. ]

MAGNUS BURNSIDES

[burlyboy]

GAME 1: MAGNUS & CASSIDY VS 622 & ARCHIE
GAME 2: MAGNUS & POE VS BEN & RIPTIDE
GAME 3: MAGNUS & BODHI VS RUBY & FINN

PRE-GAME:

[ Magnus had bought a few extra shirts at FanPort so he could wear them once he'd changed out of his wrestling gear, which he is absolutely not playing volleyball in. At the moment, he's wearing a neon green crop top that has the lettering IMPOWERED across it.

It doesn't last for long. He flexes and it immediately rips off. One may even suspect that they were purchased for that exact reason; he does look awfully pleased with himself. He's also absolutely covered in ugly looking scars from what can only be medieval battlefields but if he's not worried about it, he doesn't see why anyone else should be either. ]

Yeah! [ He bellows, punching one fist into an open palm. ] Let's do this! You're goin' down!

POST-GAME:

[ Win or lose, Magnus has one thing in mind: how you treat the winners. After a customary handshake and good game, good game, the winners are getting a bucket of gatorade - or gatorade container filled with water - tossed over their heads. If that winner's him, he's tossing it over his own dang head.

He pounds his bare chest with his fist twice. ]

That's how we sport!

SIDELINES:

[ When Magnus isn't playing, he can be heard on the sidelines, evidently cheering for nobody in particular - in fact, it sounds as though he's cheering for both sides. There's a lot of hooting and hollering (and a few calls of there you go, stud!) and overall rowdiness to be had. During breaks or after the game itself, he'll be ambling up to you with a smile, chucking a water bottle (and a towel if you've gotten particularly sweaty) at your head. ]

Good job out there! Havin' fun?

Pre-game 2

[flightforfreedom]

[ Poe let out a pleased laugh, walking over to Magnus and raising his hand up in order to request a high five. TEAMMATES. ]

Okay that is the second time I've seen you do that today, and it never gets old.