The tap water is just tap water that has aged 3 days, but that point is moot because we are just going to get a bunch of distilled water tonight.

Second, I don't know what you mean by breaking in fresh hydroton, but what is the issue with hydroton? I never came across anything in reading or any videos.

Third, we are planning on using the wet paper towel technique, as this is what I have personally used in the past and I am more comfortable with it. I have never actually grown a plant from start to finish, but I grew a bag seed for like 3 weeks in my closet just to see if it would grow, and it did. This might not be the best way, but I am very nervous about the germination and getting the seeds to sprout out of the rockwool, because if I fuck it up, its $120 down the drain, which sucks, so I want to go with what I know works unless there's an even easier way.

Lastly, I don't mean to be an asshole. I realize its a community, but go ahead and read that post I replied to and tell me its not totally condescending and very rude. I realize my questions are somewhat basic, but if I didn't read anything about it, I ask. I've also been a member of the community for a year or two and have contributed positively in other areas, but I am new to growing. Thanks again for everyone that is helping me out.