She was sitting at a desk, jotting down a few notes when she heard the doors open. The sound was pronounced since the library was almost entirely abandoned. Save for the librarians and a few janitors scattered about the old, six story building, Diem was the only student present. She imagined the rest were getting ready for the dance, or enjoying themselves with friends-- not that she couldn't. Maxim, Sera, and Bash had offered to accompany her, but she was already elbows deep in Elementary Clairvoyance and Telepathy Methodology. She was content with her decision, though the three instructors approaching her seemed to have other plans. Professor Relic placed a hand on her shoulder and she was ready to explain that she was fine nervously before he spun her around in her chair. The two females took her hands despite her gentle protests, tugging her along toward an open portal that had formed behind them.<br/><br/>In the room, the two sifted through the closet, tossing dress options on the bed for her to try. It took her a while to get through them all while Terra and Tina sorted out their difference of opinions as they examine her in the mirror. Finally they all agreed on a black dress, paired it with heels and began to fuss over her hair and make up. By the time Professor Relic arrived, she was ready-- at least physically. Mentally, she was still trying to calm her nerves, especially when Maxim stepped through the door. He appeared astonished by her transformation, and she found his wide-eyed reaction both amusing and flattering. Diem smiled brightly, then looked to the professor as he admitted the favor was somewhat of an apology. "Well, thank you." She said, grateful and excited to enjoy the evening. Maxim offered his arm, and she held onto it as he led them to the auditorium where the dance was in full swing.<br/><br/>The upbeat music ensured that the dance floor was crowded, and the punch had been properly spiked. The various houses were coming together and socializing, getting to know one another for the first time centuries. Where there would have usually been a distinct separation, with pools of house members uninterested in knowing anyone else, the various races were getting along swimmingly. And when the music slowed down, couples paired together, swaying to the soft, romantic tune. Naturally, Maxim turned to her and extended his hand, twirling her around before pulling her in close. The way was looking down at her was . . . odd. When she realized that it was affection, she felt a flurry of butterflies swarm in her stomach. Diem looked over her shoulder, eyes landing on Freya and Talon who were close by.<br/><br/>Freya gave her a thumbs up. She didn't really make it a secret that she was fond of the idea of them being together. Diem wasn't opposed to it, though she wondered how the dynamic between them might change. She didn't want to do anything to jeopardize the success of the team or distract her from her school. But, Maxim was nice and supportive, handsome and strong. With that in mind, she decided to at least be open to the possibility.<br/><br/>"Let's get out of here." He suggested.<br/><br/>"And go where?"<br/><br/>"Just some place quiet. I promise, my intentions are completely innocent." He informed her, watching as her expression switched from uncertainty to a small smile that indicated she would come along. Maxim led her outside of the auditorium, away from the loud music. He took his jacket off, draping it around her shoulders before he sat down on the lawn. Diem sat down beside him. The two talked for over an hour, about everything other than school. They had been classmates and teammates, and though they were friends, most of their conversations were talks of strategy rather than getting to know one another on a personal level. When it started to get late, he escorted her to her dorm, taking her up to her room.<br/><br/>"Thank you for taking me to the dance. I had a lot of fun, and I'm really glad that I went." Diem smiled, leaning against the door.<br/><br/>"It was my honor. Good night, Diem." He said, leaning down to place a kiss against her lips. It was nice-- more than nice, it was great. Diem deepened the kiss, wrapping her arms around him and pulling him close till she was pinned beneath him and the door. The more heat that built around them, the more their hands roamed. Her images in her mind began to flicker, and all she could see in her head was sporadic red symbols she didn't understand. They didn't cease until she stopped. Abruptly, Diem pried herself away from Maxim's lips.<br/><br/>"Am I going too fast?" Maxim asked, concerned by her sudden retreat.<br/><br/>"No, no it's not that at all!" She was quick to assure him. "It's just . . ." She thought to tell him about the symbols, but he jumped to his own conclusions.<br/><br/>"We're teammates." He smiled, nodding to convey that he understood. It wasn't the reason, but she was willing to go with it since she had been apprehensive about it initially.<br/><br/>". . . Yeah." She lowered her eyes.<br/><br/>"I get it. It's for the best." He smiled, brushing his thumb along her cheek gingerly. "Have a good night." With that, he turned and Diem watched until he was out of sight. She sighed as she entered her room and flopped down on her bed.<br/><br/>The next day, after taking a trip to the laundry room, she made her way to Tina's to return the dress.