HISSSSSSSSSSSSSSS…
The pods unlocked with their usual mechanical sigh, cool mist curling around the edges as the lids slid open. One by one, the group stirred back to consciousness.
Jack sat up first, stretching his arms above his head with a lazy grin. His hair was messy, sticking up in odd angles from the friction inside the pod. He rubbed his eyes and blinked against the neon lights of the gaming lounge.
"Man… I missed this place already," he muttered, sliding out of the pod with practiced ease.
Arianna rolled out of hers, hair tied up in a messy ponytail that somehow made her look even younger than usual. She yawned, long and exaggerated, before smacking her lips. "I want iced coffee… and cake… lots of cake."
Jameson climbed out next, silent as always, dark eyes half-lidded with sleep. He rolled his wrists and neck, checking for stiffness before calmly beginning his routine stretches. His movements were quiet and smooth, like a blade being oiled before battle.
