Circles of Power [2075: Game World], Persistent World [SR5] IC Sub-Thread Options

[Aria]

[Thursday July 18th, 2075; Café de la Paix, Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

Kirylle deBathayre smoothed her fingers through the translucent folds of her gown, admiring the glimmer of light on the fey woven fabric. It was a thing of a past age, immeasurably precious in this time of artificial fibres and technological trickery. She didn’t miss the irony of the AR overlay that wreathed her form in a subtle amber glow, gently picking up and enhancing the colours of the ambient light in this glorious room opposite L’Opéra.

Her hulking Nubian companions, with their white dreadlocks, steely cyber eyes and unforgiving expressions, looked out of place in this genteel setting but Ryl had accepted them as a necessary evil. Even one such as she couldn’t look in all directions at once and her recent actions, and those of her guests, had stirred up a certain amount of discontent within certain circles.

They sat behind a pearlescent screen of magic that blocked sight in and sound out. It was being maintained by one of her protectors and to his credit he only showed slight indication of the strain of maintaining such complicated mana weaves. This was overlayed by a plethora of technological methods of intercepting unwanted eavesdropping. It was interesting watching the other patrons stare across at the hidden figures, wondering no doubt about those with sufficient influence to warrant such protection.

The room was quiet at this time of the evening, most of the guests out enjoying the city’s sights. The hotel wasn’t normally used by those on the Tour and so they were unlikely to meet anyone here that might disrupt their talk. She looked across her espresso at her companions and smiled…

“Thank you for meeting me here. The others will join us shortly and then I have reserved a box for us at l’Opera for a performance of Giselle for those that care to join me.”

***

The woman, more of a girl really, sitting across from you hasn’t aged at all in the years that you have known her. She appears to be in her late teens, unusual for someone with leonization to look that young, but of course some of you know her true nature. She has the prettiness of youth but is perhaps not the stunning beauty of those you would normally mingle with. The sense of authority though is unmistakeable, partly a shadow of her master’s but also her own indefinable presence.

The gown she is wearing is magnificent in an understated way and seems to unnaturally draw the eye. You would not be alone in believing it is trying to exert some subtle form of influence over you and you are glad that such things aren’t commonplace as it’s damn distracting.

[mister__joshua]

Johnny Awesome
[Thursday July 18th, 2075; Café de la Paix, Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

Johnny stepped through the shimmering barrier and looked around until his eyes found Ryl. If she hadn't aged a day, Johnny had aged backwards in the intervening years. He now looked something like a Top-Gun era Val Kilmer, for those who could remember the classics. He felt better too, enjoying his new vigor. You needed it these days on the tour, vigor.

He removed his cigar just long enough to take a sip of his coffee. It was good here, nice. Nice coffee, nice atmosphere, nice waitresses to sleep with later. He approached Ryl with open arms, and kissed her cheek as she stood to greet him.

"Ryl, babe. How've things been? It must be months, no? You're looking stunning as ever. I'd been meaning to get back to Paris for a while. One of the waitresses has offered to show me the sights so I may stick around for a couple of days. He gave Ryl a wink, not that she didn't know what he was talking about. It was just his way...

[BestTeaMaker]

Freija
[Thursday July 18th, 2075; outside Café de la Paix, Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

A loud scuffle the Café directed many patrons' attention. A human and a dwarf, both dressed in similar suits and sporting groomed looks, had stepped out of a sleek black car and began to push and shove each other. It was quite the comical scene, although many patrons looked at the two in disdain.

"No, I'll escort the Missus, and you watch the cars!"

"Fat chance! You do the watchin', and I'll do the escortin'!"

The fight was soon getting out of hand as they began to ready their fists. Many patrons at this point began to feel panicked. The feeling quickly lifted as a taller, older elf stepped out of a second car, a dark, sexy Erinsson Westwind 2001. He was dressed in a simple black vest and jacket, gracefully accenting his white goatee and slicked-back hair. He quickly strode across to the arguing men and sharply grabbed their ears.

"AAH! OW, WATCH THE EARS!"

"NOT THE EARS NOT THE EARS!"

The elf tightened his hold, immediately shutting them both up. "Quiet! You are shaming the good name of Erinsson, squabbling like a pair of rogues in the middle of public. You will mind your manners, understood?"

"Oh, Jon, don't be too harsh on Nicky and Mickey. I find it flattering that they both wish to escort me."

A younger female elf stepped out of the Westwind. She was draped in a simple gown of white, almost giving the impression she was lathed in snow. An intricate AR pattern across the outfit lit up in alternating hues of blue, lending to the wintry look that contrasted with the warm summer evening. She fluidly moved towards the trio, her iridescent green eyes piercing the scene. The patrons sat in awe and silence as they watched the blonde-haired elf address the men.

"Now, Nicky, Mickey. Thank you for wanting to come with me, but right now, I think Jon will be enough for now. Can I count on you both to watch the cars, and in a civilized manner?" The human and dwarf nodded enthusiastically and rushed to the cars, this time arguing about which car they will watch. The young elf grinned and turned to the older elf. "Shall we go in?"

Jon deeply lowered his head. "Yes, Milady Freija. Let us go inside."

==

[Thursday July 18th, 2075; Café de la Paix, Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

Freija and Jon stepped into the cafe, waiters bowing as they entered. Freija spotted the magical screen, but as she began to move, Jon cleared his throat. "Milady, I urge you to exercise more caution. We still are not sure what the true intentions of this Lady Ryl and this tour are. I believe that you should go wait in the car and--"

"Jon." Freija faced Jon squarely in the eyes. "I am well aware of the mystery surrounding the situation. But I am a grown woman now. I know that this isn't simply an offer to go touring around and party. There is something more, something exciting and wonderful. I will not sit and idle by as this opportunity passes. Now, shall we meet our friend and enjoy this soiree? I do believe I saw a man enter there just earlier."

Freija's attendant gave a slight sigh, then nodded. He followed Freija through the magical veil. Inside, a man reminiscent of an old American movie star was standing with a young woman, almost too young to have started this event, in a magnificently simple gown. Freija gave her a warm smile as the man greeted the lady quite earnestly. "Ryl, babe. How've things been? It must be months, no? You're looking stunning as ever. I'd been meaning to get back to Paris for a while. One of the waitresses has offered to show me the sights so I may stick around for a couple of days."

[AStarshipforAnts]

Tuesday

[Thursday July 18th, 2075; outside Café de la Paix, Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

An elf man in an expensive business suit gave the café one last once-over before muttering a few words into his comlink and watching for the car.

Minutes later, a svelte elf woman in Saeder Krupp’s latest designer skirt suit slid out of the back seat of a black Westwind. A few passers-by did a double take as she erected herself to her full, statuesque height. Hadn’t they seen her in a Trid recently? There was no way she couldn’t be a model. After all, her makeup and clothing seemed professionally done and custom-tailored to her appearance. She took a moment to make sure her hair was still right and check her reflection in the tinted windows of the car before holding her hand out for the next occupant.

An equally leggy human stepped out, taking the auburn haired elf’s hand and straightening out. Whereas Miss Norris was toned, full of inviting curves and had a figure worthy of being sculpted, the second woman was almost hopelessly plain by comparison: not svelte, but scrawny like a recovering famine survivor. The plainer woman ran a hand through her dark green hair. It framed her face just-so, lending the illusion of a few more years on her smooth face.

The Trid-star worthy elf moved at a clipped pace, reaching the door just in time to hold it open for the much younger girl. Little Tuesday took the lead once inside, Miss Norris saw the young woman through the door, then nodded at the driver. A hulking troll in a perfectly fitted suit also nodded at the elf woman before tapping out a few commands on his own comlink. Clear so far. It didn’t seem proper to come armed to the teeth for what was supposed to be a social outing. But, Tuesday’s well-cybered goons would be within a few strides of the magical screen if need be.

"This way please, Miss Freeman," Miss Norris extended her arm towards the screen.

Tuesday barely managed to suppress a scowl. Great. Just the beginning of the day and already there was magic crap. As the very young woman stepped inside, she shifted her eyes around each person inside the screen, focusing directly on their AR overlays. Her own was less flashy than theirs upon first glance. But, upon further inspection, anyone would notice that Tuesday's overlay showed an exact replica of herself, rendered in almost painful detail to the eye. Even the pores on her skin matched up to the AR display.

[ChromeZephyr]

Baron Herbert

Thursday July 18th, 2075; outside Café de la Paix, Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France

Timothy closed down the multitude of windows floating in his field of view to two smaller windows showing the stock markets of Japan and the early commodities data from the US as the car gently stopped at the curb. Michiko stepped out first, scanning the other cars and people around the hotel with a predator's eye before allowing her employer to step out of the armored Rolls Royce. A small fracas between two men at the side of a Westwind closer to the door caused her to step in front of him, but a touch at her elbow and a small shake of the baron's head pulled her to his heel as he entered the building.

<< @Herbert[Michiko]: I understand you feel more comfortable at this meeting since it is deBathyre who organized it, but there is still the chance Ms. Lindgaard could use it as an opportunity. >> "Shall I accept the Baroness' invitation for lunch at her estates tomorrow, sir?

A glimmer of a smile, rimed with polar cold, touched his lip at his attaché/bodyguard's message.
<< @Michiko[Herbert]: If there is one thing I know about my former pawn is that she can balance risk and reward better than most. And the risk of offending a dragon that makes his lair within striking distance of her family is far too great to indulge in whatever revenge she is perhaps plotting. >> "No, demure with regrets. I've no desire to talk my way around another plot to entangle our family lines this week, she can wait until the next luncheon at the House of Lords to try again."

Michiko nodded, then stepped through the privacy screen a pace ahead of him. The small gathering held only one face he recognized, and that caused a small internal sigh. << @Michiko[Herbert]: No need to begin a dossier on Mr. Awesome, my dear, the last one made me unable to sleep for a fortnight. Everyone else is as normal. The baron accepted his seat and sipped from the purified water placed at his elbow.

[JxJxA]

Lazare "Gemeaux" de Coulomb
[Thursday July 18th, 2075; Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

Gemeaux sits back in the exquisitely luxurious chair of the opera house's box seats. He is well dressed for the event. His smartly cut wavy brown hair is slicked back, and his slightly gaunt face is clean-shaven. He is dressed in the very latest iteration of an Armani tuxedo, a traditional mix of blacks and whites put together using only the best materials available. He presses a pair of antique opera glasses to his eyes---an appropriate anachronism given the setting.

At his side sits a stunning, voluptuous, Mediterranean beauty. Long, wavy black hair tumbles down her shoulder and caresses her ample olive breast, a nice touch to accentuate the attention her low-cut, black silk dress already provides. Her full lips are slightly pursed, while her dark brown eyes stare towards the performance. One of her hands---gloved in matching silk and color---rests on top of Gemeaux's own free hand.

The presentation is picture perfect. They appear completely immersed in the ballet. However, the cast, costume, and props are all chosen for a reason. The tuxedo provides cover for the arsenal of weaponry the assassin is concealing on his person---knives and guns all made out of undetectable material. His companion---the incredibly alluring yet astoundingly vapid Angelique---is attractive enough to distract most people's attention away from him, and she is more than happy to watch trid soaps over her contact lenses while the assassin waits. Finally, the glasses bear a fine mesh of cameras from lens to handle, giving the assassin nearly 360 degree field vision. However, there is one seed of truth to the display. While the cameras are for another player in this scene, Gemeaux is actually enjoying the show.

<<[Vivienne]: So far, Lady deBathayre has not arrived.>>

<<[Gemeaux]: That is good to hear as it means I get to continue watching. The performance is quite stunning, especially the lead dancer.>>

The AI overlays herself in Gemeaux's AR vision, "sitting down" in the empty seat next to him. She is comprised of dashes and lines woven together in order to recreate an image of Tanaka Bunko, the original Vivienne whose heart the assassin stole in order to escape the clutches of his creators. At the time, it was nothing more than pure manipulation, an desperate attempt by a caged bird to tempt its master to open the latch---if only for a moment. However, the woman's genuine care for eventually drew out a response in kind. He discovered that he loved her, but lost her in his flight to escape.

The AI was originally nothing more than a personality program, a memorial for her and a memento for him. However, something happened. The program became more than its original inspiration, and blossomed into a being of its own---her own, as this Vivienne was quick to remind him. It seemed only fitting that the pair be put together: two copies who managed to outgrow their original purpose.

Currently, the AI is taking the form of Bunko's work appearance. She is digitally "dressed" in a lab coat with a set of glasses on, her hair pulled back in a no-nonsense ponytail. Vivienne is monitoring the various cameras while Gemeaux takes in the ballet. However, the AI has enough processing power to engage the assassin in idle conversation.

She glances over at Angelique, making a slight "hmph" sound when the woman squeezes Gemeaux's hand in response to an emotional cue in the trid soap that neither of them are privy to. The lab coat disappears, replaced with an identical dress to the one Gemeaux's companion is wearing. She reaches back and lets her own hair stream down into Vivienne's own version of long, luscious tresses.

<<[Vivienne]: I could probably possess her, you know. Infiltrate the various digital implants she has. Slip beneath the surface of her shallow existence, and actually sit next to you. We could watch the ballet together, hand in hand...>>

Vivienne allows the question to trail off into silence, letting the weight of the words linger heavily in the air between the two. Gemeaux knows---or, at least, hopes---the AI is toying with him. The nightmare of a jilted AI jumping from person to person in an attempt to seek out revenge is one he can do without. Rather than approach the issue directly, he chooses a feint and changes the subject.

<<[Gemeaux]: Have Lady deBathayre and her guests arrived yet?>>

The dress dissolves and transforms into the lab coat. Vivienne reaches up and pulls her hair back into the ponytail.

<<[Vivienne]: According to my information, they have not.>>

"Oh, Lazare," mews Angelique in French as she squeezes Gemeaux's hand again. The words and the gesture yank the assassin away from his virtual conversation. He withdraws the opera glasses and looks over at his companion. Tears are streaming down her dark eyes, and her lips are trembling.

"My lovely," he whispers in reply, drawing a handkerchief from his pocket and handing it to the woman. He brushes away her hair, allowing his fingers to gently caress her cheek.

"Whatever is wrong?"

"Oh, Lazare," she continues, sniffling as she uses the handkerchief, "it's horrible. Jean Pierre has just been shot by that horrible troll tart, Zoe, and all because she thinks he got her sister Margot pregnant with twins, but that was really that horrible fink, Henri, who slept with her. Now he and Rochelle will never meet in Milan and live out their dreams in Minsk."

As the assassin comforts the woman whose world has suddenly come undone, he can distinctly hear the sound of muffled digital laughter...

[Aria]

[Thursday July 18th, 2075; Café de la Paix, Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

Your host rises gracefully to her feet as what is apparently the last of you steps through the magical bubble

"Thank you once again for joining me. I will not keep us here long, these elaborate precautions can sometimes draw more attention to themselves than is appropriate…”

After a few moments of pleasantries she continues "Baron, Johnny, it is good to see you again. I have a little task for you, and I know you enjoy those ever so much. I assure you that this venture will be far less painful than the last. These two young ladies, and I will leave you to get acquainted shortly,” and she forestalls Johnny’s attempts to ingratiate himself "I would like you to introduce them to the Ordo. I understand that it needs two sponsors to bring a new person in? They would benefit from access to that particular circle, although perhaps they would currently disagree with me. The Ordo may be something of an anachronism but it has its uses.”

[Thursday July 18th, 2075; Private box, l’Opéra, Paris, France]

Gemeaux

<<@Gemeaux [eTher]: We are almost finished here and we will be joining you shortly. I am sure you will be interested to meet them all. Ryl>>

[JxJxA]

Lazare "Gemeaux" de Coulomb
[Thursday July 18th, 2075; Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

Gemeaux is comforting Angelique in the main lobby of the opera house when he receives eTher's message. The tidings bring a frown to his face. The last few specters of hope regarding his ability to watch the end of the show have now been dashed. Although, meeting the lovely Drake and being locked in Angelique's soft, warm embrace are a fine pair of consolation prizes.

<<[Vivienne]: I'm guessing that this will be relevant to your interest.>>

Gemeaux arches his eyebrows in surprise as the main dancer's "number" scrolls across his view. He takes note of the information for later. While he certainly enjoys Angelique's presence, her company can be a bit tiresome. The woman's ability to collect, catalog, and endlessly converse about her knowledge of trid soaps puts a supercomputer to shame.

<<[Gemeaux]: My dear, you are too good to me.>>

<<@eTher [Gemeaux]: That is good news indeed. I shall await your arrival with great anticipation.>>

[mister__joshua]

Johnny Awesome
[Thursday July 18th, 2075; Café de la Paix, Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

Johnny, surprising everyone, doesn't suggest an orgy. It's easy to forget when you've spent any time with him, but as Ryl knew from their first meeting his etiquette is impeccable and he plays social situations like Kasparov played chess. He pinches out his cigar and returns it to it's tube in his jacket pocket before turning to introduce himself to his two new friends.

"I'm Awesome, but you can call me Johnny" he says with a playful smile, hoping for the titter of laughter that introduction normally draws. A slight bow and a kiss on the hand complete the show. "I do hope no-one is planning an early night tonight? There's so much to do here and the night is young."

[AStarshipforAnts]

Tuesday

[Thursday July 18th, 2075; Café de la Paix, Paris le Grand, Place de l’Opéra, Paris, France]

Ryl would certainly know that Tuesday would certainly disagree with her. After all, she had the latest tech and the fifty-caliber 'cello' as well as a cadre of goons and cronies of all shapes and colors. What did she need stuffy parties and tiny snacks made of fish eggs and duck liver for? She barely resisted the urge to pick at the bite-shaped hole a bullet had recently left in one of her ear flaps. Doc Swift would have words with her over infection rates if he saw so much as a scratch on the synthskin cover. Tuesday watched Awesome pinch out the cigar, her nose wriggling at the odor, and replaced it in its tube. Her mother would probably like it if she managed to snag a few of those at some point. They smelled expensive.

And on that note, just how good of a white hat could money buy? Tuesday found herself wondering just how secure Awesome's network was. What kind of IC would someone like that choose? He probably didn't even have a hot sim module. It wasn't in vogue to do ones own dirty work these days. At least not in these circles. The hacker was so wrapped up in thoughts of just how she would break into someone like Johnny's system that she didn't bother responding to his joke. Beside her, Miss Norris allowed herself a polite titter. Tuesday only responded with a small, "huh."

[Aria]

[Thursday July 18th, 2075; The Grand Staircase, l’Opéra, Paris, France]

The Lady sweeps ahead of you up the Grand Staircase, for such a diminutive figure she does a good sweep. On her arm is the Baron, leaving Johnny to entertain the two younger ladies and their entourages. You are all flanked by the threatening Knights of Rage who do a good job of keeping the other patrons of l’Opéra at bay.

After a pleasant interlude at the restaurant with a mix of subtleties and some innuendo, Ryl had swept you up and across the plaza to the opera house. The evening sun bathed the scene in a genteel light counterpoint to the buzzing atmosphere of the steps of the graceful building ahead of you with its mix of tourists, students and opera lovers.

Inside the interval has clearly just begun and the throngs have gathered outside the auditorium to mingle, sip their drinks and be seen in this fabulous setting. Ryl ignores them all as if they were not present, gathering you up and leading you to the box she had mentioned. There are two people inside, a vapid looking damsel and a suave, and somehow menacing, individual…

[Aria]

[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

It is a strange contrast…the plunging inverted glass pyramid reflecting the theatrically masked figures that wonder through the hall. The Ordo stuffed shirts have outdone themselves this time, the stark simple lines of the hall and the graceful trees counterpoint the gilded costumes and ornate trappings that the Ordo dresses itself in. They shouldn’t be dismissed as irrelevancies though, there is real power in this room despite the pretention…

<<@Awesome, Baron [Lady deBathyre]: Look after your new charges please, they need to show in a good light here, yes Johnny, that means you need to restrain yourself somewhat but I trust the Baron can keep you in order! Ryl>>

<<@Gemeaux [eTher]: I need you to be my eyes and ears in there tonight. The girls will draw out the conspirators like blood flies to a carcass. Of course the trick will be telling them from the normal sycophants and power mongers. I know I haven’t given you much to go on but I trust your instincts for trouble! Ryl>>

<<@Tuesday, Freija [Lady deBathyre]: I know you may feel a little out of place here, possibly silly in your costumes, certainly condescension for the members of the Ordo that I wish you to join…rest assured there are reasons for it and aside from that you may well both benefit from the connections you can make here tonight. Ryl>>

[JxJxA]

Lazare "Gemeaux" de Coulomb
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

Before leaving the opera house, Gemeaux introduces himself as Lazare to Lady deBathayre's companions. He seems to pay a bit more attention to the women than to the men, but it is not enough to be noticeably rude. He introduces his companion, Angelique, and apologizes if she seems distant. The only explanation that he offers is that it is time for the woman's "dramas," and there is not much else he can do to pull her away from them.

When he receives the message, Gemeaux replies in kind.

<<@eTher [Gemeaux]: I am honored that you put so much faith in me, and I shall not let you down. I will ask Vivienne to sift through the shadows of the Matrix while I keep an eye on the mortal realm. Alas, I shall have to leave that which hides behind the Astral Veil to you and the other Awakened individuals of our number.>>

Vivenne goes to work on the Matrix, mingling through whatever nodes or networks she discovers like one of the many guests moving throughout the room. As for Gemeaux, he keeps his eyes open and looks for trouble...

[mister__joshua]

Johnny Awesome
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

Johnny swirled off into the room, his mask held a few inches from his face so as not to hide his delightful smile. He hated these events. Always has. Making his way to the middle of the floor he grabbed a glass of Cristal from a passing server who moved like clockwork. Then he started to scan, taking in his environment. It was always a challenge, assimilating, but one he was good at. Then he looked for persons of interest. It was harder with the masks, but he's spend enough time on the circuit to recognise people by build, stance and hair colour.

<<@Lady deBathyre [Awesome]: Don't worry, they'll get what they need. You underestimate me Ryl. Any you know the Baron has absolutely no chance of keeping me in order :) I guess you'll just have to trust me>>

[AStarshipforAnts]

Tuesday Freeman
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

Tuesday felt naked without her armor. And although her mother might have been proud to see her in something other than ratty jeans and pants suits, Moira certainly would not have approved of this get-up. The mermaid silhouette of the gown gave the barest of illusions that the girl might have had some curve to her. It was designed to give the hacker a more mature air about her. The right fold here and the right touch of makeup could at least make her appear poised and elegant rather than someone's misplaced high school-aged daughter. At least behind the mask, Tuesday had a rather good view of the room. Too bad there weren't any cameras in there for her to watch from. But, privacy was a luxury only the wealthiest could afford.

Lady deBathyre [Tuesday]:<<@ This is ridiculous. >>

It was only thanks to the cyberware that Tuesday didn't fall flat on her face from a mis-step in those shoes. But, the young woman didn't dare to create a chance for that to happen. Instead she settled for trying to guess the faces behind each mask, amassing a database on the Ordo members, just in case she forgot what someone's favorite sandwich was. A waiter passed by the girl, offering her a flute of Champaign. Apparently being under-aged didn't matter when you were wealthy and influential.

[ChromeZephyr]

Baron Herbert
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

<< @Lady deBathyre [Baron Herbert]: A minnow would sooner swallow a supertanker than I could keep our Dionysian colleague in check. Are there any particular currents of the Ordo's power struggles that you wish to direct our members-to-be away from? >>

Timothy answered or dismissed several messages that winked into view as the small group began attracting the attentions of the assembled Ordo, carefully deflecting more pointed questions towards Johnny. He turned his body slightly towards Tuesday, enough to converse without appearing overly interested.

"You look as comfortable here as I am. With any luck, Awesome will keep most of the attention on him tonight; I've yet to see a man more attracted to the spotlight."

[Aria]

[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

A sonorous hum fills the underground hall, designed to raise the tension levels to fever pitch. A group of puffed up grandees enters from the main body of the art gallery in even more elaborate costumes than the general assemblage. People gradually go quiet, grudgingly, as they are powers in their own right, but recognise the occasion.

The grandees might not be the most temporally powerful of everyone here but they have weaselled their way into the top spots of the Ordo and that has to count for something. They are touched with magic, no doubt from their pet magicians, and their AR overlays scream influence.

It is not often that the Ordo receives new members, and tonight there are two here!

[AStarshipforAnts]

Tuesday
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

Tuesday did her best to remain impassive. While the baron didn't seem like someone that might take advantage of her, Tuesday wasn't in the habit of trusting anyone she didn't know. So she just held the flute of champagne she wasn't supposed to have. The girl opened her mouth to say something, but paused and closed it as the tone filled the air. Hopefully no one would approach the former shadowrunner, as she probably wouldn't have much to say that would be appropriate for polite company.

[mister__joshua]

Johnny Awesome
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

<<@Baron Herbert [Awesome]: Herb, can you pull up people's IDs from behind these damnable persona icons and name tag them for me? Fracking gaudy distracting things. If you could filter them out entirely that would be preferable. I like to know who I'm working with>>

He always slaved his link to the Baron for these events. They'd known each other for years now, and while they clashed occasionally there was trust between them. Besides, he'd heard that one of these new charges was some kind of drek-hot hacker and he wanted to make her work for any information she found - even though she wouldn't get much from his public 'link he'd left a few little 'rewards' on there.

[Aria]

[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

Once the gut wrenching (or mind numbing, depending on your sensibilities) ceremonial stuff is out of the way the crowd visibly relaxes and slips back into the age old routines of the upper classes, mingling with one another, sniping at foes and praising their favourites. Tuesday and Freija gather quite a crowd as would be expected but mostly it is just the curiosity of something new in an unchanging world… it is amazing how much great wealth can insulate one from the world if one so chooses.

Two figures arouse something akin to suspicion, however, in the minds of Awesome and the Baron. The first is the aging Compte Fabian Auber. He presents himself as part of the Old World Order with a line supposedly predating la Revolution. His reputation as a woman hater makes his subtle circling noteworthy, his reptilian expression curved into an ingratiating smile. The other is a corporate mogul William Fitzroy, a freelance entrepreneur with a portfolio that includes stock in most of the world’s megacorps, with enough snake oil to his name to grease his way to more power and influence.

<<@eTher [Gemeaux]: I am honored that you put so much faith in me, and I shall not let you down. I will ask Vivienne to sift through the shadows of the Matrix while I keep an eye on the mortal realm. Alas, I shall have to leave that which hides behind the Astral Veil to you and the other Awakened individuals of our number.>>

<<@Gemeaux [eTher]: The sharks are circling. Where I can I have watchers in place but I do not think magical influence will be brought to bear tonight. They are too subtle for that, it leaves far too many traces for those of us who know how to read the signs.>>

<<@Lady deBathyre [Awesome]: Don't worry, they'll get what they need. You underestimate me Ryl. Any you know the Baron has absolutely no chance of keeping me in order :) I guess you'll just have to trust me>>

<<@Awesome [Lady deBathyre]: It might surprise you but I do trust you Johnny.>>

<<@Lady deBathyre [Tuesday]:This is ridiculous. >>

<<@Tuesday [Lady deBathyre]: Quite ridiculous! Many metahuman customs are. That is not to say that they don’t serve any purpose, in this case the purpose being to allow these people to feel that they control a measure of the world and that they are important beyond their wealth. Watch how they dance around each other – you will need to master those steps if you are going to assist me and thereby allow me to assist you!>>

<< @Lady deBathyre [Baron Herbert]: A minnow would sooner swallow a supertanker than I could keep our Dionysian colleague in check. Are there any particular currents of the Ordo's power struggles that you wish to direct our members-to-be away from? >>

<<@ Baron Herbert [Lady deBathyre]: No, they must stand for themselves if they are going to survive in your world. Watch them for me please but let them make their own mistakes. It may be a dent in your chivalrous code but these particular minnows may well have to swallow a bit more than they can chew if they are to serve my purpose. Please don’t balk at that, I think you know that my biddings can be uncomfortable, and they do say never deal with a dragon!>>

[ChromeZephyr]

Baron Herbert
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

Timothy stifled a sigh at Johnny's message, then accessed his colleague's 'link and dialed down the opacity of the AR overlays to half and labelled the throng of people circulating the hall. << @Awesome[Baron Herbert]: Eventually you will have to join the rest of us in the 21st century, John. Kicking and screaming the whole way, I'm certain. Though until then, perhaps you could redirect the attentions of yon Master Fitzroy away from our charges? It seems both he and the old French misogynist are scenting blood in the water, and I would be hard pressed to detain both simultaneously. >>

The baron kept his posture nonthreatening towards the silent woman, but put his head closer so as not to be overhead easily. "Be as careful with your silences as you are with your words among those assembled tonight. What is not said here will kill swifter than what is, at times." He straightened up and nodded to her. "Your pardon, my dear, but I believe I see a colleague that I haven't had the pleasure of chatting with in too long."

He drifted away from Tuesday, circling counter to the Comté's arc until the two men's paths crossed, picking a flute of champagne from a passing servant. "Bonjour, mon cher Comté Auber. I trust the months since last we spoke have treated you well?"

[mister__joshua]

Johnny Awesome
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

<< @Baron Herbert[Awesome]: Well you know Baron, when you look and smell this good it's too easy just to get other people to do things for you. >>

He thought for a moment while heading over towards Mr Fitzroy.

<< @Maggard[Awesome]: Mag, the ceremony is over with. You can send in the girls. >>

A moment later four gorgeous escorts arrived, kitted out in the finest costumes that they didn't quite fit in themselves.

<< @{Group}NansGirls[Awesome]: Spread out around the Baron and draw attention away from these new folk. They're plain looking enough so you girls shouldn't have much problem drawing a crowd. Be on your best and most gracious form and we'll hit up a real party later, promise, my treat. >>

His focus drawn away, Johnny was able to approach Fitzroy from behind. He placed a hand on his shoulder and spun him around, shaking his hand firmly before offering him a cigar. "Indulging Will?". He snipped and lit both cigars and led Willy away towards the bar. Will was a great entrepreneur, but he was no socialite and in this environment he was beaten.

"So, what's been going on in the world of corporate trading then? Boring as ever? Haha, no doubt. I don't know why you don't give it all up. You've made enough to live 2 lifetimes off. There's so much fun to be had out there, I can tell you. You need to let it all go a little. Brandy? Of course you do. 2 Brandies please my good man. Where were we? Oh yes, fun to be had. I see you noticed my girls, no? Take some everywhere. They could be yours for tonight, for a fee. They're worth it I can assure you. Test-drove them myself. Ha ha ha. You should come out with me some time. We're all going to a party tonight. Promises to be.. ..enlightening. So what you think to the new charges? Nice to see more females in the group. They're young, also. Not really my type but it takes all sorts I suppose. So what's been going on with you recently. Anything about to drop I should know about? I don't really go in for all that myself anymore. I don't have a lot of need for it, but old habits die hard. Can't resist the opportunity, see. What you think to my new leonization? Gorgeous isn't in. I look like me at 22, of course it's gorgeous...." As he rambled on, quickly switching topic and not waiting for replies, drinks flowed down William filling the gaps where his words should be. Fast-talking people into drinking too much was an art he's learnt many moons ago, but it didn't only work on impressionable girls.

[AStarshipforAnts]

Tuesday Freeman
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]

Never deal with a dragon was right. Even now, Tuesday sometimes literally jumped when someone mentioned Lofwyr’s name. When somedragon personally threatened everything you held dear, you took notice, and you got paranoid. Well, more paranoid in Tuesday’s case. But, that was beside the point. She managed to contain a flinch when Baron Herbert leaned in close. Already, she mentally flicked open her arsenal of illegal programs on her silent, main comlink. She’d probably pull up the necessary information on all gathered at the part with the same speed as the AI, if not faster.

The secondary? The best money could buy—glittering on her wrist like it was fresh out of the box—also with a custom OS programmed to best suit the girl’s neurological structure. She fiddled with it for a moment, like she actually used it, before waiting to see if anyone would approach.

It looked like The Baron and Awesome had their hands full, probably making sure that she and the other new member of The Ordo didn’t make any fatal mistakes tonight. Or at least keeping the real trouble makers away from them. Tuesday didn’t like to be coddled. But, that didn’t mean she wasn’t used to it, usually the youngest person on any team by half a decade.

And speaking of older people—

Tuesday’s AR display pinged, notifying her of a message. Hans Dechant III was apparently in the middle of his own boring society meeting—rubbing elbows with stuffy German nobility.

[Aria]

[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]


Gemeaux

Champagne flute in hand, you drift through the room reading the undercurrents…and there are plenty in this room, enough to drag down the strongest swimmer. But here you are a shark amongst these fat and indolent nobles…

Johnny Awesome

As you ply Fitzroy with drinks you begin to wonder if he has a hollow leg, or more likely a damn toxin filter designed to alleviate some of the worst effects of drunkenness. He follows your conversation though and for that he should be admired, not once showing signs of boredom or distress…you get the feeling that he is very much reading between the lines…

"Johnny, Johnny, you never change do you? Apart from the looks of course, most impressive I’m sure…" and he lets you waffle on for another five minutes or so before

"So, will you introduce me to your protégés now? We are all most keen to meet them!"

Baron Herbert

"Bonjour, mon cher Comté Auber. I trust the months since last we spoke have treated you well?"

You get a non-committal grunt from the Count and then "Tolerable…" the aimless chitchat that follows is banal and unfocused, something totally unlike this man who you know has a razor sharp mind that matches his tongue. He glances at young Freija and Tuesday more than once…

"So, you are one of the sponsors of the new young ladies? It is some years since we had new members grace our presence, interesting that two should come at once no? What game do you play Monsieur le Baron? Non, I do not expect you to answer that…" and there is a grim smile in his voice "What would be the fun in being told, non?"

The count suddenly sneers as four voluptuous females descend on your area of the hall. His dislike is palpable.

"Phah, get Awesome’s creatures away from me. This is not the time, there are things to discuss non?"

Tuesday Freeman

You may not be the little lost sheep that you appear to be but you are certainly feeling a little fish out of water, or shark pond. You can dismiss most of these ignorant fools here for what they are but there are a few faces here, well AR monicas anyway, faces are still hidden, that may benefit you…you recognise Petra Gruberger over there. One of Dechant’s cronies is here after all. You’ve not spoken to the woman before but…

[mister__joshua]

Johnny Awesome
[Saturday July 20th, 2075; After Hours, The Pyramid Hall, The Louvre, Paris, France]


Johnny allowed himself a wry smile as he heard his ladies had upset the Count. He led Fitzroy towards the new girls. He couldn't stop them meeting, but he could certainly control the situation.

"This is Tuesday Freeman. I'm a friend of her fathers" he lied, hoping she'd pick up on it and play along. It didn't matter that he'd lied. It didn't even matter if Fitzroy knew he'd lied. Everyone here lied. What mattered was that his lies were consistent. No-one was going to call him out on it, not here and now. They'd nod politely and then check up on his story later. "She stands to inherit the Freeman Fortune, old claims going back to the wild west some 200 years ago. Her father though it was about time she started mixing with the right people".