2013.04.15 - A Night of Hellfire

The night has already begun for this charity ball hosted by the Hellfire Club and much like any party thrown by the Hellfire Club it has already reached a certain level of depravity. The dancers on stage are probably helping with that as now they are wearing little more than corsets and thongs (both the male and female dancers). They dance for their patrons who are lining the stage in their comfortable seats, giving money to the performers as they dance.

The music is constant but not overwhelming mix of dance music with a classical sound to it. The dance floor is filled with starlets and socialites, from the A-list to the C-list dancing to the music as they drink and be merry. The bar filled with people from every major corporation and elite circle drink the night away making deals and arrangements of all varieties.

The back tables have couples and singles being served the finest food in Metropolis by scantly clad servers. Wining and dining in a way on those of the Hellfire Club are capable of.

Among it all is Sebastian Shaw, dressed for the occasion in his green broque frock coat, with gold trim and embellishments, his vest is a deep black, rather simple by comparison and a white silk ascot flourishes his neck. He walks among the crowd as if he were at home, because he was at home, in more ways than one. He glad-handed everyone he ran into, well aware of who they were and probably knew more than a fair share of dark secrets about some of them.

Rules are sometimes made to be broken. Black tie is the event and typically people wore black. Tonight Lex's attire is almost entirely white. A long white coat clings to his frame comfortably while the ends of it nearly caress the back of his knees. Feeding into a vest that matches the coat and a button up shirt is a simple white tie. Freshly polished white shoes adorn his feet, which are mostly concealed by matching suit pants. Why all the white? Why not? Or perhaps it's a nod at recent events. Most probably don't know why such a deviation. The few that do would get the message.

Only one thing on Lex's person deviates from the color code and that's a pair of black gloves. Leather, custom fit to mold to his hands practically. Mute of any shine or sheen these gloves makes the wearer's hands look like hands from the abyss reaching out to drag the next target into it kicking and screaming.

Stepping out of the limo that brought him here, Lex straightens his tie. Green eyes, the color of new and crisp dollar bills take in the familiar club before making his way inside. All of the familiar sights greet him. A freshly stocked bar with top shelf merchandise and an eager staff willing to serve anyone that gets in. Offerings of the flesh coming in a variety of ample curves, pert and tight muscles, newly purchased and concealed silicone, and body's that look like they're made out of rock thanks to a strict diet of steam fish, chicken along with veggies and no carbs. Both really bored the man in white. Drinking slows one's mind and attraction makes people do the stupidest things in the names of love and lust.

Sitting down at one of the elegant tables Lex says to the approaching waitress, "Filet Mignon. Medium Rare. Don't wrap it in bacon or smother it in any seasoning you'll only kill whatever flavor from proper aging. Baked potato, plain, creamy butter on the side, asparagus, coffee with my meal and a water for now." The waitress doesn't even have the time to give him a menu. Politely she turns around and leaves.

Lex doesn't have any real interest in eating, despite the order. The gesture is a sign of good faith. Previous times at the club were cordial at best. Today Lex hopes to have a different tone, at least with the host anyway. Besides it's all for a good cause, if you weren't a conservative. The Mutant Equity Fund started by Reptron Electronics is a group to ensure equal and fair representation of mutants at trials when educational organizations decide to "skip" young mutants that qualify for scholarships that are given to less qualified homo-sapiens.

Emma Frost watched with only half interest at the dancers on stage. She perfected one of the moves that the redheaded little harlot to the left was performing, terribly at that. Emma sipped at her martini as she sent the girl a telepathic command to trip, and she did. She chuckled at her own clearly childish gesture.

For the evening she was dressed in the female inner circle traditional attire. Her hair was worn loose around her shoulders, with extravagant white makeup around her eyes. Emma's outfit was a white front-lace leather corset and matching leather panties, and knee high lace-up boots. Her cape was a heavy satin, with a thick real fur collar.

It was great to finally be back home, even if she was only kidnapped for a day or so.

The last meeting the God and Goddess had with Sebastian Shaw was at Mueseum Gala which resulted in an invitation to tonight's event. Of course, it would be quite rude to decline such an invitation after the man was so hospitable and aided the Asgardians during the brief time in his company.

Getting to the Club was easy thanks to the teleportation of the Goddess. They suddenly just... appear outside. Thor has decided that his armor would be the best attire for the evening. Meanwhile, the Goddess has clad herself in a ruby red gown of pure silk, silver and white beaded embellishments on the top, a slit to just above her knee and a Court train on it. Long black hair has been done in thick curls and left to cascade that way down her back. Diamonds and rubies drip from ears, her wrist and decorate her neck. A delicate looking circlet of white gold encircles her forehead, a pendant of an eagle holding Mjolnir in it's talons rests just between her brows.

With her arm linked through Thor's, Sif and the God make their way inside. Once there, both must pause briefly to adjust to the new sights and sounds. When Sif recovers, two things happen. The first is that a well shaped brow arches at the attire of the dancers and waitstaff. The second is that she notices the dance floor and her ice-blue ice light up. A sly look is given up to Thor. Now... If she can just convince him he wants to dance this evening!

It took a bit of talking her into it, but Warren Worthington III managed to talk his into helping her find a dress she liked for the occasion. He had the limousine bring himself and Fern to the Hellfire Club, a place he'd only been in a couple of times before, mostly with his father. But seeing what the charity was, he asked to attend in his father's place. That, and he would get to show Fern off.

The whole 'Playboy Club' atmosphere wasn't expected, however. Dressed in an impeccably tailored designer tuxedo, the bright white of his wings contrasting starkly with the black jacket. Stepping inside, with Fern on his arm, he paused, blinked, and looked over to his girlfriend, "I had no idea. Seriously. Uhm. Maybe we should sit down and get some food?" And he might need some booze to get him through this.

Irena Dubrovna arrives as she always does to affairs like tonight's, a silent figure save for the whisper of satin, the black-haired Russian coming to the party solo. As soon as she sees what's taking place within the club's interior she can't help but to smirk a bit and a faint shake of her head is given. "Leave it to Shaw," she murmurs, her accent heavy.

A tray-bearing server's load is lessened slightly as she takes a fluted glass from it, it then sipped from as she looks for a place to occupy space.

Most of the people who step through the doors to this club have very good reasons to be here. The rich, the famous, the powerful. The sort of people that can get into things simply by revealing their face.

Here, then, stands something of an enigma.

Zoya is not rich. The only fame she's gathered for herself is for something of an alter-ego, yet one lacking a proper title or face behind it. Where power is concerned she wields none of the variety which controls politics and shapes the world. By comparison she's wreckless and chaotic. A force barely contained.

A force which happens to be contained by Sebastian Shaw. She's here because she has proven to be a useful extension to his will. A way to spread out his own power, they do share so very much in common when it comes to dealing with matters via brute force.

Her dress clearly marks her as one of the club-goers, all second-skin black leather and brilliantly polished metal adornments. The corset keeps her comfortably decent while leaving much open to the view of others, though where most of the other women of this club stop at a thong she's added mirrored black leggings into her own presentation, tucked beneath tall boots with a bit less heel and a bit more tread than the others.

She's one, she belongs here, and yet she's ever so slightly different from the rest. Despite her hidden shortcomings this woman still manages to have a presence about her. The other women around the club just might be trying to avoid getting within her personal space.

As the guests start to filter in through the front doors Zoya keeps watch with a slight grin of what might be amusement lingering upon her perfectly detailed face. The other Russian woman to arrive, by herself at that, manages to catch her interest where the others have failed.

After a minor 'discussion' and being forbidden to see the price tags, Fern finally chose her dress, as a compliment to Warren's own attire. Her long dress is fairly simple; the black floral lace bodice allows a white satin sheath to show through, the neckline a modest scoop and her arms bare. Thin black leather cinches at the waist, flowing out to a black tulle skirt that skims her legs as she walks, one arm tucked through her date's.

Her red hair is pulled back at the sides and fastened with a rhinestone clip, hanging free at her back, she wears minimal makeup. Blue eyes are wide as she gets a good eyeful of the club's interior, and her hand tightens a measure on Warren's arm. She murmurs to his apology, "No, it's..... interesting." She sounds unsure, but at least he's insured now that his date will stick very close to his side.

Supermodel Millie Collins is another one to break the code. A white dress, very short, an oval hole cut into one side to expose side and half her stomach and half her back. The long sleeves give it an image of elegance, while the jewelry gives it a 'rich fun' feel in general. The strapping shoes and silver toe ring seem to set it off. Her fingers are wrapped about a stem of a champagne glass, sipping at it thankfully as she pastes on photogentic smiles that she doesn't feel.

Still, Millie comes to this club for a reason, and these are people here to party and give. So a few dropped tidbits and conversation topics about a superhero event on television, or talking about a young teen showing mutant or meta powers. She stores the knowledge of reactions, body language, and tones for those that seem more inclined to listen and those that seem less so. She pauses by a table, leaning against the wall and raising a hand to pinch the bridge of her nose as if she is gaining a headache. Then again, she did just finish speaking to one particular couple that did oh so love to talk about well...themselves, and only themselves and their latest purchases.

Thor pauses not far inside, and simply eyes the dancers for a very long moment. A blink, and THor glances at Sif with a bit of a smirk, while he leans toward her to comment in his native Asgardian language, away from the All-Tongue which he typically uses, "Oddly, I don't think I would be shocked if Amora suddenly appeared." His quip made, the Thunder God straightens up, glances over the dance floor, then to bar. He'd seems more interested in the drink selection than the dancer-selection.

He's left the winged helm at home, so his blonde hair is visible, washed and brushed nicely, with braids at the temples. His armor's polished and a fresh red cape brushes his ankles, cascading from his shoulders. A long sword is strapped acorss his back, and Mjolnir hangs from his hip. But he seems to wait for Sif to lead him where she'd like to go, at least, until he spies Fern. A smile blooms, and Thor nudges Sif gently and motions toward her.

"Look, Beloved. Our friend Fern sits with..." Thor pauses and tilts his head to the side at the sight of wings. "Valkyrie are not men." Yes, Thor is confused and spoke in the AllTongue, which translates everything he's saying into whatever is the listener's native language. And his voice is quite thunderous. Someone needs to learn inside voice.

Emma does take notice to all of the new patrons shuffling in. She also would have attended fashionably late, but she had private matters to discuss with Shaw before the parties festivities began. And as a loyal member of the inner circle it's generally fitting to arrive on time. So far the only surprise was Thor and Sif, gods at a Hellfire club party. Now that was a first. She made a mental note to introduce herself before the party was over.

The White Queen made her way to Zoya, the club's Black Rook. She stood by her side and gave her a small smile, "Zoya. Looking fabulous this evening."

Certanly there are rumors about Gods living among men, but those are just rumors, right? Lex's eyes stare at the blond haired individual that should have learned what, "inside voice," means. Money colored eyes note all of the details. Blond hair, some legend would argue for red, strong physique, and a hammer with a short handle. Supposedly made short by eleves, or even Loki, to insinuate a rude comment about the blond, the comment would be on par with telling a man in today's world that they have small feet. Most of the myths match up with the figure pointing out Warren Worthington the Third. Mental notes and calculations are made as Lex sees that this evening just got a whole lot more...interesting.

Zoya's attention swiftly jumps away from the front doors in favor of Emma with the compliment. Not much is known to her about the White Queen beyond matters of the inner circle and that, in their own special way, they are on the same side. Where this Ruskie has a presence, Emma quite easily trumps it in spades.

"Is sometink threw together," she replies with a smile that, on a normal person, would have been quite warm and social in nature. In her case it's only an imitation, albeit a very convincing one. Still, it's hard to hide things from a telepath. It's followed through with a slight nod toward the entrance. "Is good turnout, no?"

It may be obvious to some that holding a conversation isn't Zo's strong point. She's not too bad at keeping the other girls in line, though.

After a few sips of champagne is taken Irena starts to mingle, her expression turning coy. So much money in the room, so many rich people and the majority of them just seem ripe for the picking. But she's not here for her own selfish reasons, or so she has herself convinced, not when there is a charity being supported at this event. She'll just have to hunt herself a trophy husband at some later time.

As she passes by people she brushes against them lightly, bumping into an arm here, leg grazing against those of others there, all the while seeming like she doesn't notice.

Millie glances up from her spot against the wall and blinks slowly when she catches the beautiful wings of Warren Worthington. A slight smile curls about her lips. Target. Well, not for /that/, so Fern can be well secured without cat fights. She pushes from the wall, and seemingly holding the glass with casual and almost foolish ease she walks toward Warren and his partner. Everything is posed and controlled as if this was a runway. That is just how things are here at the Hellfire Club, a play, and everyone were are mere actors in some greater coy game. Her smile though is her signature, bright and friendly which makes her face light up and more geniue than it was with some of the others tonight.

Warren tries to find a table that is...out of the way of the scantily clad dancers and loud speakers from the dance floor. He offers to pull her chair out for her to sit, "Want anything to drink?" is asked...not that he seems to want to leave her alone! His own chair is considered before he attempts to sit in it to see if it's comfortable the way it is...or if it has to be turned around. Blue eyes glance about, noting Millie seemingly approaching before he leans over to Fern, "Interesting is one word, yes. I...didn't expect this."

The White Queen liked Zoya, and it was a good thing to be liked by Emma Frost. The woman was a shark, in a sea of fish. The woman was a tad unpredictable, but to a telepath that can either be a delight or annoyance.

She also was of course well versed in various languages, being a very well educated woman. She spoke perfect Russian, 

Shaw could help but smile as he saw the two Asgardians, this was just what the club needed more power. Two gods walking among them would certainly up the profile of the club. Not that it needed much help considering that the Hellfire Club was the most important club in the world. Still it was nice to have even the God of Thunder attend his parties, they were already considered epic, but now they would be considered Legendary.

Beyond that Shaw was listening to a young blonde socialite named Paris prattle on about some such nonsense that Shaw would normally pretend to care about because he intended to sleep with her, but he had already done as much last month so he decided to move on. Gesturing to one of the serving woman, that woman ran off knowing exactly what Shaw wanted. He moved to the pair of gods and said in a boisterous voice, "Wonderful! I'm so glad the two of you could make it! We are honored to have you attend our little mortal soiree. I'm sure you all have much more important things to do with your time."

It's with reluctance that Fern lets go of Warren to take the seat he offers, and after the initial look around she doesn't seem too inclined to further inspection of the room. Not closely, at any rate. Those who aren't scantily clad are obviously way above her own station in life, and it's a little awkward for her. Still, she's here for Warren, and the charity being supported, so she takes a breath, wills herself to relax, and steps into a character. That she can do. A smile goes up to Warren, "I'll have whatever you have.

A curious look draws her brows as she hears her own name boomed out, and she does look around again now, until she locates the obvious source. Thor and Sif get a friendly, shy smile, and a little fingerwiggle wave of acknowledgement. Ok, she can't resist another look around, noting a man in all white, and a woman seeming on a path directed toward Warren. Her eyes remain curious, not challenging, and her smile easy on her lips.

Arms which have been decorated in ornate jewelry made of all white metals loosely fold together against the stiff boning and tight buckles which entwine Zoya's torso, that idle grin becoming something more of a sneer as she looks across the crowd with peculiar violet eyes to one of the other women. 

A brief pause follows before she cocks her head to the side, a contemplative expression falling into place as she brings her ear another inch or two closer to the White Queen. 

As she's nudged, Sif draws her gaze from the dance floor towards where Thor indicates. Seeing Fern, she bows her head to the girl and offers a warm smile. It's Thor's next comment that draws those glacial blue eyes back to the God as she begins to lead him towards the bar. "I do not believe he is Valkyrie, beloved. More like Lady Jubilee or our own..."

Once they reach the bar, her eyes shift back to the dance floor a moment. It's not something the Goddess gets to indulge in often here on Midgard sadly. A longing look and then she's taking in the rest of he attendees and leaving Thor to order their drinks.

Once Shaw approaches, the Goddess dips her head again. "It is a pleasure and an honor to be here. Thaak you for the invitation." Her free hand is waved slightly. "There is little more important than supporting those who are close to us or repaying a kindness done to us. In this, we can accomplish both."

The drinks are ordered. Honey mead? No? Shame. Then ale. Beer is fine, and a wine for the lady. Red would be best, not too dry. Anything from Thymiscria? Oh, well, that's alright. Thor smiles winngly at the bartender before he notes Shaw's approach.

"Sebastian Shaw, the Black King. It is a honor to be at thy feast, and warmly do we accept thy hospitality," booms the Thunderer with a bright smile as he brings a fist over his heart and bows lightly; a Prince to a King. "Thou hast a friend of my in attendance, and I am quite pleased to see it," Thor adds, eyes glancing toward Fern briefly before turning to Sif. Thor nods once to add his weight to her words.

Millie finally reaches Warren's and Fern's table when they somewhat decide on drinks, that warm smile present. "Pardon," she says gently. "I do not mean to intrude, but I wished to introduce myself." She gives Fern just as warm a smile, not favoring one over the other. "I'm Millie Collins." And yes, she offers her free hand toward Fern first to make sure things remain smoothe. Millie knows the pecking order, upset the woman on the man's arm and the fur flies. She just doesn't realize Fern is not likely like that yet.

Emma Frost tossed her head back and cackled. It was likely right, 

She turns her attention to Shaw socializing with the gods in question, 

A waiter suddenly turns around at Emma's mental command, and she hands him her empty glass "Martini, dry with olives. And give that blonde gentleman Shaw is with a boilermaker, and keep them coming all night. I want him to have at least two in front of him all evening."

It seems that Warren may be more embarassed at the surroundings than Fern. He doesn't remember the club being like this when he visited, but this is the first of the Epic Soirees he's attended. He's just not been exposed to this lifestyle, having kept mostly to himself until his revelation of being a mutant.

When a scantily clad server passes by, he makes sure to order two scotches for them both before he looks briefly at the menu cards on the table to place his order for dinner. His eyes flicker over at the other guests, recognizing many, before they land on the man dressed all in white. He leans over slightly to murmur to Fern, "That's Lex Luthor...I should probably go say hello before too long. Would you like to accompany me?"

That thought is interrupted by Millie's arrival. He looks over at the voice and offers nod, "Good evening, Ms. Collins. I'm Warren Worthington the Third and this is Fern Fiddlehead." The newcomer is watched carefully.

Shaw nodded humbly to Sif's comments and bowed slightly to them both. And then after hearing Thor's words he tilted his head slightly, "Really, you have a friend here? How entirely fascinating! I did not know we had the ally's of gods among our members. I would be most fascinated to meet your friend among us."

Shaw held his hand up out and the serving girl from earlier handed him a scotch on the rocks, "Thank you Erika," he took a drink of his scotch and said, "In fact, I would call it an honor to meet a friend of the gods."

Fern's eyes follow Warren's, again noting the man in white, committing his name to memory before the introduction. She nods to the question, her reply soft, "Of course. You aren't leaving me alone," she adds with an amused but somewhat intimidated grin. Her eyes slip past Warren, back to Mille as the woman approaches and introduces herself. Fern's smile is warm as well, taking Millie's hand in a soft but firm shake, "It's a pleasure." It takes a moment for it to dawn on Fern just who this is, and to her credit the only betrayal of the realization is a bare widening of her eyes. Of course she knows who Millie Collins is, the woman is on a billboard she passes in the subway nearly every day.

As soon as she arrives almost Irena gets a text, the phone held in a matching black satin clutch buzzing away. She looks at it and sighs, her nose wrinkling. Seems like something's come up as she hurries to put it away and put her donation for tonight's represented charity in whatever's counting as a donation box.

On her way out she makes a point to pass by Mister Luthor. She pulls out a small business card - one of those fancy ones made of thin plastic with the information etched onto it - and it's held out to him. "We should talk sometime, dear," she points out with a wink. "Perhaps we could have dinner here sometime?"

Most people don't approach Lex with such...boldness. Usually most call or send some kind of message first. If they do come in person without proper protocol they're afraid. Yet this woman is just the opposite. Taking the card he asks, "And you are?" Green eyes don't both to register the card. He wants to see the person admit it themself.

This is one of those moments, right? The Queen standing beside Zoya is laughing. There's a brief flash of time as the shift in her emotional state is registered, the expression upon her face is analyzed, before it is emulated in turn. Broad, amused smile. Chuckling. It feels so bizarre but it's good practice. It never reaches Zo's eyes.  she quietly scoffs as that smile starts to fade away into the beginning of a scowl. 

"Aye! I would be glad to make introductions to thee. She stands yonder, with the Winged One," says Thor in the AllTongue and in his loud manner of his. He is not at all ashamed at pointing Fern out by lifting his left hand. Clearly, Asgard has no social stigma against pointing at a person with a weaponless hand.

When the waitstaff brings Emma's message to the bartender, he nods, and adds the drink she requested to the tray and sends the waitress on her way to the Gods. Thor smiles to the girl, taking his drink and looking surprised as he's told of the extra. A new drink to try! Thor takes it eagerly and drinks it easily. A brief thoughtful look, as he savors the taste, and then he returns the glass to the tray (as opposed to flinging it across the room or into the nearest firepit, thankfully), and turns his attention to his beer.

"Oh, please, call me Millie!" Her tone sounds perhaps shockingly sincere. Her grip is also a bit firm, but gentle when she shakes Fern's hand, and then she offers a hand toward Warren. "And please, I'm sure you hear this all the time and I hope you don't take offense, but the wings are breath-taking. They make me feel like a little girl when my mom used to tell me stories of angels." She grins then, "Did that hint at my small town-ness?" There is just a simple infectiousness about her demeanor, light and friendly, but not air-headed.

"Still, thank you so much for participating in the charity event. I'm a little crusader I confess," and she sighs dramatically. "I'm actually working toward founding my own foundation. So alas, agenda time," that light humor re-appears. "I was wondering if sometime I could borrow time to ask about the perspective of someone gifted," this mostly directed toward Warren of course as the obvious mutant, "and adapting to a society that has yet to make a real effort to adapt to the gifted." It's obvious, pro-gifted here.

Once hand shaking is done, Millie's hand rests on her thigh, actually curling fingers about the hem a bit to grip it. A subdued reveal of her nervousness, that doesn't reflect in her tone or expression and the rest of her bodylanguage is purposely held confident which contrasts with the otherwise nervous geasture. But she talked her game, and sees if she can get Warren to take the bait.

Russians are not known for being timid, usually, and such is especially true for the woman who just boldly approached Lex. "My name is Irena Dubrovna." It is on the card. Not that she'll point that out to him. "Feel free to call me sometime. We can arrange a dinner out." She smiles and starts to drift back out towards the exit.

The first glass of wine is downed as quickly as water would be and the glass of scotch fom Shaw is drunk the same way. A glance is cast towards Thor and the Goddess grins. "One we should keep in the Hall for guests, beloved?" Because she's more than a little curious. She and Thor couldnt get drunk on Midgardian alcohol so she enjoyed trying the various flavors. As Fern is pointed out, the Sword Maiden's smile grows. "She is quite the remarkable young woman."

Lex gives a wave before speaking flawlessly and effortlessly in Russian, "Have a good evening. A shame you cannot stay longer. We'll be in touch." Standing up he moves toward Miss Frost then gives her a knowing look. They've danced this game before, "Stay out of my head, Stay in my head," all the nods, gestures and looks you would give a telepath that is your ally. Apparently someone wants to speak privately.

"I'm a firm believer that mutants shouldn't be treated any differently than any others, Ms...Millie," Warren offers, putting on his 'social' face. His shoulders straighten some and his wings give a little puff out as if that makes him look any more impressive. "And thank you, but angels are a part of Western Culture, I think. They talked about it at the Church I went to as well as a kid." Well, the ones his parents dragged him to when they need to make a social appearance there.

When she mentions her agenda, he gestures for her to take a seat at their table, "I don't mind discussing things, b ut I would need to learn a bit more before making any other kinds of committments, if you understand." It's about then that their drinks arrive and he can take a rather long drink from the glass. A smile is given to Fern before he asks, "Might I ask why you use the term 'gifted'? I mean, I'm not offended by the term 'mutant'."

Emma sometimes forgets that Zoya issues with expressions in emotions, specifically a laugh. Should Emma take the time, and if Zoya was willing she could aid in this. A telepath of Emma's skill could easily fix this issue, would I would require a bit of openness, unless she wanted to force it on the woman. But she does not. For the moment, the evening was for fun but she took a mental note to address it later, 

When Thor received his drink she smiled, and mentally reminded the waitress to keep his drinks constantly coming.

Thor considers Sif's question as another round of the drinks arrive. He drinks those down, once more taking the moment to taste them, before he shakes his head lightly, smiling at Sif.

"Nay. I think not, Beloved. They almost tickle the nose, which I'm fairly certain means they would be far too strong for any but, perhaps, Tony Stark to tolerate," Thor replies warmly as he sets the empty glasses down on the tray again. He sips at his beer, as if it were a cool water with which one rinses their pallet.

Fern's smile brightens, emboldened by Millie's warm nature. She's relieved, actually, since one of her biggest fears is meeting people she admires only to find them less than admirable in person. This is turning out quite nicely, actually, so much so that Fern dares to relax a measure. There is no attempt to interrupt conversation between Millie and Warren, so she listens politely, interested in the topic. Still, she can't help that her eyes might stray a measure, taking in more of the guests and staff of the Hellfire Club. When she realizes she's been looking at one of the male dancers a few moments too long she immediately centers her attention back on her date and the model, taking a sip of her drink. Ok, a gulp.

Shaw chuckled a bit, Honestly the fact that Anthony isn't here is rather surprising. He usually doesn't miss a chance to have a bit of a party.

The party itself is starting to become a bit more than when it started, there is a reason some people called these events, a Bacchanal. Now the dancers both male and female have lost the corsets entirely and the dance floor has become a grindfest. Half the servers for the tables are now sitting at the tables and being flirted with in a much more serious level.

There is another issue with trying to mend Zoya's broken mental bridges. She gets intensely peeved when someone attempts to root around inside of her head. Really, it's wonderful that these two ladies can connect as they have. Without that connection this portion of the Hellfire Club might be nothing left but a smouldering crater in the ground.

Maybe that's part of the problem with her. Dead people aren't the best of sources for stimulating conversation.

Then the White King arrives, having -that- kind of look about him. Eyes are something which Zoya can read, so long as the message which they attempt to convey lies within the spectrum of emotions which she is familiar with. He wishes to speak with his Queen. Zo silently takes a step to the side. Go on, then. Have the Queen. Zo has a room full of nervous and stupidly wealthy people to silently mock.

"No, I completely understand. My goal is to learn first, to ask second. Right now, the foundation is just a twinkle in my eye." Millie smile seems to get wider though at Warren's receptiveness. "Well, not all consider themselves 'mutants' though they have unusual gifts and abilities. And to me, it seems like a precious gift though it certainly has its drawbacks in an already difficult teenage life when they typically appear. But all gifts have their drawbacks, it's the way of the world, a double edged sword. Yet, that is where compassion and nuture comes into play."

Millie then rolls her eyes at herself, "I'm getting carried away. Sorry. When I sink my teeth into something, I'm not likely to let it go." A gentle self-mocking at her own tenacidy. She then winks over at Fern. "And I know, off topic, but I just /love/ your face. One of my friends, she's a model and is red headed and freckled too. She always get the fun, playful clothes in modeling sessions," and Millie has just that hint of jealousy over the clothes she gets to wear. But then, "Have you ever thought of doing a session just for fun, to see what it is like? That's actually how I got started. A friend dragged me off for a one-time deal, then later to a 'for fun audition'. I about died when I found out the audition was for /real/ and for a big sports company afterwards."

One of the business rules drummed into him early was 'Always carry business cards'. Warren reaches into a pocket and pulls out a business card to hand to Millie, "I'm not too sure that this is really the environment to be discussing such things anyhow, but feel free to get in touch with me about this. No promises, but I'm willing to hear this out." He then falls quiet as Millie starts to talk modeling with Fern. He does offer, however, "She's an excellent actress, you know."

Silver blue eyes drift to the floor and narrow slightly. On second thought... No dancing. A look is cast at Thor. Last time she took Thor anywhere that required that kind of dancing... A shadow passes over the Goddess eyes in rememberance of the evening. And this time, her blade is with her. Definitely no dancing. Ahem. "As you say then, my love." Champagne is supposed to tickle too. With her wine gone as well as the scotch, the Goddess reaches over to snag Thor's beer from him.

Emma Frost sends out a telepathic message to Lex, 

She rolls her eyes towards the direction of Lex and turns her attention back to Zoya speaking in Russian once more, 

"I need you to send your Black King a message," Lex thinks while the telepath is inside his head. The message isn't too long a simple request from Shaw who is busy talking to supposed Gods.

Thor is unconcerned that Sif took his beer, for he relinquishes the drink without a fight. Of course, two more of those interesteing little drinks have arrived and so Thor has no complaints.

"Thy hospitality is warm, Sebastian Shaw," Thor comments, lifting the little glass to him in salute and assuming his host is providing them. He drinks them down, returns the empties and finally seems to note Sif's glance of the dance floor. He rests a hand on her shoulder, and in the language of Asgard murmurs almost softly, "If thou doth wish a dance...?"

That face that Millie professes her love for colors almost immediately to a shade of pink that only serves to highlight the freckles spattered across Fern's nose. She shakes her head gently in the negative, "I've never really thought about modeling, no. I do act," she adds with a glance toward Warren, and a quick, amused aside. "You're biased, your opinion hardly counts." Her attention returns to Mille, brows arching with interest, "Is that when you started with Anstis?"

Sif's eyes lift to Thor and soften slightly, a warm smile being given to the God. When she speaks, it's in the same language that she was spoken to. "Nay, beloved. Perhaps another evening or if things settle down a little. I do not enjoy that kind of dance so much." Her free hand comes up to rest over his, giving it a gentle squeeze as the Goddess leans into his side a little.

The beer is raised to her lips and a long drink taken from it. When pulled away, she considers it a moment, gives the slightest shrug of one shoulder and then takes another drink.

Mental stuff... Psychic connections. It's something Zoya doesn't understand, -can't- understand. So many other matters in this world she can handle by getting physical with the areas that happen to bother her. -Something- is going on between Emma and Lex. She wants no part of it.

Apparently Emma doesn't, either.

Pale violet eyes dart across the room, landing once again upon the gods of the evening.  Frankly, waiting to find out if he's going to get drunk sounds way too boring, and quite possibly with a disappointing conclusion. On a normal day she might try to speed things along with a hospital-grade anesthetic, or worse. In front of Shaw, at his own club, she'll just stick with words. This time.

That Shaw is currently having a conversation with said gods doesn't seem to bother her any. It's a social event, right? Watch her go and be social.

"Pardon me..?" Zoya starts in to both Thor and Sif in her usual heavily accented English. "May sound silly, but friend and I are wonderink if gods are able to get ..ah, how do you say..." she frowns slightly while struggling with the word 'inebriated,' "'sloshed?'"

Tony Stark arrives, as usual, under the banner of "Fashionably Late" - and fashionable is exactly what Tony is. Dressed in a hand tailored Brioni tux, and a pair of smoke-tinted aviator shades, the CEO of the Stark Empire saunters well after festitivities have started. He arrives with his erstwhile personal assistant, Pepper Potts, head to toe in Oscar worthy, likewise one-of-a-kind Carolina Herrera, black and white with accents of grey that almost border on sky blue (http://www.carolinaherrera.com/newyork/en/rtw/spring2013/collection/1/detail, for reference). He doesn't annouce that he and his PA have entered the room, his charisma and presence do that for them - but if people had theme music following them around, Tony is definitely one of the few who would. It's rare that one can be seen in their true element, but this place and this kind of party fit hand in hand with Tony. A lopsided, satisified smile lights on the man's face when he takes in what he sees. "Sometimes.." he says to no one in particular, "it's damn good to be me." he looks briefly over his shoulder, "Pepper?" he says softly to his right hand, "Tonight is to be completely kept off record and below board." - almost as if on cue, Tony raises a hand and one of the serving staff places a rocks glass in it, half filled with 20 year old scotch. Neat.

Sebastian looked at his to Asgardian guests and stated, "If the music is not to your liking, if the dance floor is not what you wish. That can all be easily changed." He pointed at one of the bouncers, who were instead of scantily clad were instead dressed in barque fashion, including powdered wigs. That man nodded and spoke into his wrist. The music suddenly changed into a slow viking song, one suitable for slow dancing.

Shaw looked at the two gods, "I am here to serve, m'lord and lady."

Millie reaches over to accept the card. "A open heart is the first step to moving the world." And she's the type of girl that seems to honestly believe that saying, which perhaps makes her stand out as the odd duck in this environment. "Thank you," her words sincere. Her eyes widen a bit at Fern, "Really? I heard acting lessons actually help with modeling actually." But then it's Millie's turn to blush a bit, "Actually, yes. It was my first audition and I was totally clueless. I was still attending the Tennis Academy at the time." Who knew a famous supermodel could look shy and a bit embarrassed! "But do you think you could be up to it Fern? And I promise, no hidden agenda than 'to have lots of fun'. I got a good impression of you, and you learn in the entertainment industry to go with your gut." Inclusion, just like that, Fern is 'one of the entertainment fold'.

Emma Frost rolls her eyes once more as she receives the thoughts from Lex. She sends a telepathic message to Sebastian Shaw, |Sebastian, Lex wants you to steal Thor's hair. He'd tell you himself, but he's busy studying remedies to fix hair loss. I apparently am only a messenger in our little circle.|

Emma watched as Zoya approached the gods, and made sure to pay attention to Thor's response. An actual smile appears on her face as the charming Tony Stark finally makes his appearance. That is the very definition of fashionably late.

Warren smiles at Fern, "It doesn't count? Now, that's not fair...biased or not, I still think you're a brilliant actress." He works on his scotch as Millie talks up modeling and he just sort of gives a shrug, "It's up to you...it's a lot of work, from what I've heard...but a lot of travel and exposure." There's a sideways sort of smirk then, "And then I'll get to brag that I'm dating a brilliant actress -and- model!"

Thor tilts his head at Zoya, lips frowning as he doesn't understand her meaning, even though her words are clearly understood. When he speaks to her, it is as if his words are suddenly in th emost polite and formal dilect of Russian, old world and proper - a trick of the All Tongue.

"Forgive me, but I do not think I have clearly understood thy. What does 'sloshed'" this he repeats exactly as she said it "mean this evening? For I am not a liquid to swirl about in a goblet."

But then the music changes to a slow song, much more akin to was he is used to, and the Asgardian smiles brightly and looks to Sif with that silent: well?

Pepper Potts steps up to Tony's right side, having just handed off a black shoulder wrap to one of the coat check type people. "Does that mean you plan to do something that needs to be kept off the record, Tony?" Her tone is completely level, but the small smile she offers along with it indicates she's teasing. Just a little. And then her eyes sweep across the room, making mental notes of who she recognizes amongst the guests, including Ms. Frost, Sif, and Thor. And then she hopes that Thor won't have expected to bring those chalices he gave her as a gift. They don't exactly go with this dress. Though she still insisted on wearing a braided wire bracelet.

"Thank You Miss Frost," Lex says with the utmost courtesy. He did not know about the snide comments that went about mentally nor did he care for them. Something slithered it's way into the room. On one hand this snake-like figure has a red-head and the other a twenty year old glass of scotch. Lex, dressed in the all white number complete with pitch black leather gloves, goes to greet the "Fashionably" late. "Mr. Stark, it's nice to see you've finally made it," he says biting back several comments that can be made.

The music changes thanks to Shaw at the Goddess turns a radiant smile on him. "That is very kind of you. It is not often that I get to dance these days." The look from Thor is noted and she smiles that smile that is his alone and nods her head. Absolutely.

Sif does, however, step in to answer Zoya. "Nay, my lady. It is not possible for Thor and I to become drunk by drinking Midgardian alcohol."

Fern pauses, wondering for just a second if someone put something in her drink and she's hallucinating, but then her smile broadens at Millie. "I think that would be... amazing. My friend Emma back home, she'll be beside herself. She plays tennis, big fan of yours." Hence Fern's own knowledge, gleaned from Emma. Warren gets a light poke in the ribs, "You'll be my trophy boyfriend."

It comes with a light giggle and Fern's eyes shift... and stop. It's hard to miss the entrance of Tony Stark, and her gaze lingers for a moment as does that of many women in the room. Unlike many women in the room, Fern's eyes slip away and land on Pepper. They brighten, clearly with admiration for the other redhead. She leans toward Warren, absently whispering, "Warren... there's Pepper Potts."

Shaw smiled as he received his message from Emma, |Doesn't surprise me, Alexander was never one for people, he doesn't understand how much perfect it would be to have the actual Thor as an ally first.|

He watched the two gods go off to dance and then refocused his attention. Apparently the woman with the man with wings was a friend of theirs. He was eager to make friends like that.... and he would have headed there if it weren't for the arrival of Tony Stark. He smiled and headed over towards Tony, "Anthony. A pleasure to see you again. I'd offer you a drink, but you've already found one."

He looked towards Pepper and said, "I assume this is the oft mentioned Virginia Potts?"

WIth the question answered to Zoya, and Sif's lovely smile, Thor waves off the next round coming to him, to collect the beer from Sif, down it in one go, set is on the tray, and move to escourt Sif to the now clearly dance floor.

"If thou wouldst excuse me," says the God to Zoya and Sebastian both, each hearing from his lips their native language. This Prince is on a mission.

"This will be a nice treat, Sword Maiden. I do believe our last dance, such as this, was some time ago," comments Thor warmly to Sif, eyes remembering that night, so many centuries ago, when the AllFather had made it clear that -someday- they would be wed.

Tony Stark looks to Pepper, the smirk turning into a smile. He reaches up to remove the shades and slip them into the interior breast pocket of his jacket. "Well, we /are/ at the Hellfire Club, Pepper - one usually doesn't get noticed for acts of humanitarianism here." - and he turns back to the room just in time for Lex to approach him. "Mr. Luthor," he says evenly, "Pleasure to see you again, yes I was running a little behind this evening."

Manages to make about 1.5 steps in, when Sebastian Shaw makes his way over. His smile broadens a bit more for one of the hosts, "Sebastian, great to see you again - your staff is on fire as usual, the drink found me before I found it - and this is indeed the woman who allows me to function. Sebastian, this is Pepper - Pepper," he says looking from the redhead back, "meet Sebastian Shaw." he says smoothly, introductions one of his stock-in-trade.

Emma Frost can not miss Sebastian Shaw and Tony Stark being in the same room. Any time this happens is an epic event, no matter how big or small. She swipes another martini from some waitress delivering a drink order from someone else and is suddenly by Shaw's side, "We are glad to see you, Tony. You are the life of any party."

Her eyes shift to Pepper, "And Pepper, do remember that if you ever wish for a new career direction I could use a woman like you by my side."

MEET: You request to join Magneto.

Millie laughs softly at Warren's words, "A supportive man? Plus one with looks and money? Don't let that one go Fern, you aren't likely to find another better. There is a reason I remain very much single; I've sadly punched more than one boyfriend during the breakup. Therefore, I know jerks when I see them, and yours isn't one." Millie's eyes are alit with michief, "I know, I know, my terrible tom girl temper." She has her free hand on her hip, the business card having been slipped...no kidding, into her bra beneath her dress for safe keeping earlier. She then lifts her glass for a sip of champagne.

Of course, Millie sounds proud of her temper in a way, though it has gotten her into trouble enough times. "And what a trophy! Just don't put him on display too much unless you got a cattle prod," and a playful grin at that. "Emma huh? I'll see if I can find one of my old promo photos from my Tennis days to sign for her and send back home to her then. I still play tennis, but it's at a gym club," she confesses. "I miss it sometimes. I don't actually carry business cards, but I'll make sure Warren passes my info to you. Either that or I hunt him down and threat him with a tennis racket till he does." Millie sounds playful and a bit silly sure, but she's actually having a lot of fun speaking with Fern. But then she turns to where Fern is looking.

Millie is silent and watches the pair, "And...debating if I should try some stuble hints of my project or run and hide." Not that her eyes don't linger on Stark, but then they land on Pepper Potts, the wiser choice and one with less trauma attached to it too. She mmms softly, "You know her, or just know about her Fern?" Millie is curious.

Fortunately at least one of the two gods understood Zoya's peculiarly worded question. Sif's response is met with another 'so genuine but not' smile, a slight bow of her head, and a "Spasibo," before she ducks back and allows the two to dance.

Nearly an instant later she looks across the room, catches Emma's glance, frowns, and shakes her head. Onto another target Zoya goes.

Warren chuckles, "Well, my parents would be so proud," in response to being a trophy boyfriend. Not that he seems to mind. He follows Fern's gaze and gives a nod, "And that's Tony Stark. I don't know that I've actually met him myself...I probably should, though, especially in a social setting. I like to think it's better for the memory...unless they're already drunk." He then leans a little closer, "Would you like to stay with Millie while I go do 'business'?" It's a party, but he's not going to pass up this opportunity to network.

Pepper Potts simply looks at Mr. Luthor appraisingly as he doesn't bother to address her, taking advantage of that to study the rival businessman. You are being weighed. You are being counted. You /might/ be found lacking. Of course, before she can make any observations about the man their host arrives to greet them and Tony introduces her. She smiles politely to Mr. Shaw and nods, her own hands still empty and hopefully will stay that way. "Mr. Shaw, a pleasure to meet you." When Emma appears her attention turns to the blonde woman, recognizing her from scheduled meetings regarding that Academy of some sort in updatate New York. "Thank you, Ms. Frost, but I think I'm best off staying where I am. I really do hate having to settle into new jobs." About as polite a 'no' as she can think of, because just thinking about leaving her job at Stark Industries makes her brain go 'NO!!'. And the least reason of all for staying is that she's just plain spoiled on having JARVIS around to help her with almost literally everything.

Sif smiles at Thor once more, her eyes lifting to meet his. "We were naught but children then..." Or so it seems now. At the time, they knew everything about everything. "I have missed dancing with you." Actually dancing. For now, the rest of the club all but fades away, her full attention given to the God before her. In the back of her mind, she's paying attention for trouble but it'd be impossible to tell by looking at her. On cue, the God and Goddess begind to dance and after a few moments, it will become clear to those who know such things, they moves of the Foxtrot are being executed perfectly by the pair.

"I'm sure when Miss Potts is tired of filling spirit glasses and escorting random one night stands out of his bedroom or office all she needs to do is send out a message saying she's looking for work. Lexcorp would gladly double any offers on the market for someone of your skill, Miss Potts," Lex says with the utmost sincerity. In his eyes Tony Stark is a disappointing apple that fell far from a great tree. Sure he has charisma, some intellect for making Iron Man and the guts to declare to the world, "I'm Iron Man." Still, past all of that all that is left is a man unable to let go of a shot glass and would probably wind up dead thanks to an STD. "Forgive my rudeness for not introducing myself Miss Potts. Lex. Lex Luthor."

There's something about a Saville Row suit. Certainly, there's Armani- Gucci, other fashion designers who have a name and a style all their own. But Saville Row- that's a suit for a discerning gentleman. It's neither flamboyant or excessive, but is an extravagance tied up in old-world style and hand-worked stitching. French cuffs are a flickering silver at Erik's wrists, matching the ornately wrought patterns in the grip of his silver-shod cane. Patent oxford shoes, hand-buffed to a mirror finish, nicely offset the subtle dark pinstripes of his charcoal suit, and the glistening silk of his four-in-hand tie.

At the door, Erik pauses, inclining his head with a shimmer of silver hair to the attendant. He surrenders his fedora and the white stole hanging from his shoulders, along with mahongany leather gloves. With coat ticket tucked into his pocket, the man known here as Erik Lehnsherr takes a few confident, idle moments to review the swirling melee of the party, his blue eyes cooly distant and yet missing little with their probing sweep. After a few long beats, he gives his cane a light thump on the marble and starts into the swirl, parting the crowd like a boat leaving a wake, his unhurried paces measured in slow cadence.

At Millie's praise of him, Fern's eyes slip aside to linger on Warren a moment, and she nods in agreement with the assessment, "I think he's a keeper." Expressive brows lift again, "Oh, Emma would just love that, if you would. That's -so- nice of you, Millie, thank you." Her excitement on behalf of her friends shows sincerely. It's turning out to be a much more eventful night than she imagined. In many ways, with unexpected topless dancers also making the list of things to write home to Emma about. Wow.

"Oh no," Fern breathes, surprised at Millie's question. "I don't know her, but I know of her. There's mentions of her in some of the articles I've read." There's a flash of disappointment internally at Warren's question, but she doesn't let it show. It's his night, he needs to take care of some things. "Sure, Warren. Unless you have others to visit with, Mille," she says, thinking there are probably more important people to talk to with such a gathering.

Thor is quite graceful, when he wants to be. Even in armor, with a magical hammer hanging from his belt, and a sword straped to his back. His cape flutters about in time to Sif's skirt as he dances with the Goddess. And while he too has part of his attention on the things about them, ever vigilant for Midgard's cry or a Call from one of Her Children, Thor's eyes are on the raven haired woman in his arms.

"We were very young, weren't we? Will we dance like this, Beloved, in but a few weeks, and once more in Asagrd? Or will you insist upon this maypole idea of yours?" There might be a faint bit of rose to Thor's cheeks at that last question. Maybe.

"If you are going to business Warren, think you could direct Pepper over here and spare her from the males terrible influence?" A playful grin on Millie's face, she actually looks excited! Millie sets her champagne glass down upon the table. "I would love some girl's time in a normally 'double check I'm not indecently exposed' environment." She then says softly toward Fern, "It would be my delight to spend more time with you Fern. I expected this to be all work tonight, not fun. Thank you." Though as Millie takes a seat, she glances about for anyone else of interest, and her breath catches when she sees Erik. A warm smile spreads across her lips, but she does not call out to him or anything so crass. Though if he does look her way, she will wave happily to the intimidating man with obvious surprise and joy at seeing him.

Tony Stark raises his glass to Emma, "Thank you, Emma. It's lovely to be here and attempt to keep the festivities going -" a quick glance to Lex before he looks back to her, "I know that can be difficult at times." he sips his scotch and looks back to Lex, his tone staying mild, "I'm sure you could use another soul bound to a chinese sweatshop sewing machine, but this woman here is far too valuable an asset for such things." - he looks over to Pepper and gives her a warm smile before turning back out to face the rest of the room and has another sip of scotch.

Shaw couldn't help but shake his head at Alexander's statements to Pepper, as if he could some how remove her from Tony Stark's side. Even Shaw knew better than to try that, "I could live another 50 years, Anthony and you would still surprise me with your statements. Oh and Jessica was asking about you, apparently you were supposed to call; and never did."

This party needs something more. Something--

Zoya intercepts one of the drink-runners by stepping forth and placing a single fingertip out to catch him square in the chest, stopping him short with a look of surprise. It's not a normal interaction of physics, though it's also quite subtle. Also of a subtle nature is what results, the Russian leaning in close to whisper something into the server's ear. To his credit he does a fantastic job of keeping his expression neutral through the exchange, but he's also all too pleased to get away from her as soon as possible.

As the woman turns in place she looks out across the crowd once more, stopping short as she notices the club's newest arrival. Huh... Some old-timer wants to get freaky, huh? This violet-eyed woman's decked out in gleaming black leather and polished white metals, she's suitably freaky for this crowd. The man has an air of confidence, like he's his own island. -That- is something which Zo can understand.

With a meticulously shaped eyebrow hooked upward a notch she pushes forward through the masses, suitably intrigued by the sight of Erik. "Zstrasvutchya, welcome. Are no stranger to environment, no?"

Blue eyes widen at Millie's question and he looks quickly to Fern as he stands. "I...think that...from what I've read and heard about Ms. Potts, she can hold her own with male, female, or any company in-between." His wings give a flick before he then offers, "But I'll certainly relay the request." Fern gets a glance, "I'll be back soon," before he leans in for a brief kiss. He does need to do 'business'...or at least make the attempt and maybe by the time he gets back, dinner will be there.

"If you will excuse me," is offered politely to Millie and Fern before he does his best to make his way towards Mr. Luthor.

Bad move, Luthor. VERY bad move. Pepper's gaze turns toward Lex when he speaks badly about her boss then tries to be all oily smooth introducing himself to her. She looks at him with all of the intensity of a precision laser, her voice just as quickly changing to match the glacier blue in her dress. "I'm sorry, Mr. Luthor, no matter how much money you try to throw around, you. Can't. Afford me. So don't even try." She then smiles back at Tony before giving one more glance at Lex like he's today's trash to be taken out. "I hope you have a good evening." Dismissed.

Emma Frost casually whispered into Pepper's ear as Tony was distracted, "Job or no job offer aside, we MUST do brunch sometime. We'll gossip about Tony. It will be fun! He is an amusing staff member at the Academy of Tomorrow. Do have fun and don't take anyone's shit. Especially Lex's."

She steps away from that social circle and makes her way to one of the empty chairs in front of the strippers. She had only a handful of people she wished to speak to, but didn't want to waste her time with the majority of the room.

The compliments tonight are in little danger of going to Fern's head, but they might make her head explode from all the blood rushing into it when she blushes. Warren's quick kiss is returned lightly, and she catches his hand to give it a soft squeeze before releasing him into the wild, as it were. She looks to Millie, grinning, her voice lowering confidentially, "I didn't know what to expect. And seeing all the... interesting outfits sure didn't help much." She giggles lightly, relieved to have found someone beside Warren to find some ease with.

"Dobryj vecer," Magneto says urbanely, inclining his head to Zoya. As if he's accosted by Russian women on a daily basis. He offers Millie a flickering smile in return, waving the grip of his cane at her in a short salutation from across the room, then drops the cane to the floor as ponderously as if settling a sledgehammer between his feet, resting both hands on the grip and regarding Zoya with a level, unintimidated gaze. "I do occasionally enjoy the company of the social elite, as they say," Magneto quips, his accent vaguely eastern European, and hard to place. "But it is hardly the company of the proletarian masses, either." He turns his head very slightly, addressing a passing waitress with a glance. "Grey Goose, please. Rocks and a twist of lime," he says, somehow making the order something of a polite request. He looks back to Zoya, having scarcely moved. "And you? Do you find yourself comfortable amongst all this?" he asks with a vague wave.

The grace from the God is no surprise to Sif. She's danced with him more than once and no matter all his brute strength and 'act first' attitude... He's exceptional light on his feet and quite the skilled dancer. One of the few able to keep up with the Goddess.

The red silk swirls around her ankles and the dance floor. "Thor, are you trying to bribe me or was it an ultimatum The maypole or dancing with you...?" A brow arches, her tone soft yet playful. "Unfair, my dear God. You well know my choice." The maypole will have to go!

"Nothing foreign about my products Mr. Stark. Granted I share a different ideology than you," Lex stops himself from saying the rest. Money colored eyes look at Stark, "You still pride yourself on honoring your father's memory at the Expo? Showcasing technologies that are supposed to revolutionize humanity and take mankind into places they've never been before. If this is still true then allow me to unveil what I've been working on and what -will- change the course of human history. What do you say?" Lex wants to whisper close talking about how if his latest technology doesn't live up to the hype then he would look like a fool on a grand stage. But if it did then Tony would get the oh so coveted attention a media whore like Mr. Stark so often craves.

Money colored eyes regard Pepper, "Everyone has a price Miss Potts, even you. One day you'll find this out," and on that green eyes dismiss the effective yet stupidly loyal secretary. Pity, she would be so much more beneficial in better company.

"WOuld I so deprive thee of a reason to tease me further?" asks the Prince as he dances with Sif, ignoring the scantly clad mortals about him. He grins, then gives in. "A bribe, then. It's embarassing enough to remember the actual rite, let alone learning how the mortals changed it over the years. Drunk mortals and long winters..." he quips warmly, with no real malice intended as the slow song to which they were dancing comes to a close. He twirls the Lady of Blades once, then leans over her in a dip, one hand supporting her shoulders so he can press a warm kiss to her lips before straightening them both out.

Erik Lehnsherr says, "So's Pat. He sent me an authgraphed PERSONAL letter from his home desk while I was stationed overseas."

Erik Lehnsherr says, "ooc Oops."

"Believe me, I'm only a member here because of the contacts, not because I enjoy the environment Fern. So don't feel bad at being put off kilter by it all. I cringe inside each and every time," and Millie sighs dramatically at that. "But it is what it is. But what I'm more interested though is looking for those interested in my foundation idea and actually gathering information and support to get a well-developed plan and get it off the ground. I really want to help these kids. I feel like it's the right thing to do." Millie finishes off her champagne then and sets it at the edge of the table to be picked up by a passing waiter. Though she does glance toward Thor and Sif, looking a little envious. They do look beautiful together as partners. Millie sights a bit wistfully.

The greeting in return is easily understood, though the same can't be said for everything else which is said to Zoya. The company of -what- masses, now? Eh, it doesn't matter. Just hearing Erik speak is kind of entertaining, it's like taking a step back in time. She'll take her entertainment where she's able to find it. Besides, Emma's busy. She has to amuse herself for a while.

"Eh," she initially replies to the question with a slight roll of her shoulders. "Am not one to get caught up in who can buy who out first. Scenery is not too bad," she adds with a slightly thoughtful look, glancing back to the dancers and waitstaff. "Is not my usual crowd. Can be fun to watch, never know what will happen."

Someone else might trip themselves up due to a telekinetic push, for instance. A sociopath can dream.

Emma Frost looks about the room and considers her options for conversation, so many topics she wishes to cover but she can cover them more privately and perhaps soberly in a better time. But her eyes focus in on Zoya with Magneto. THE Magneto. He was far more interesting then meeting a god for the evening, and that was saying something.

She finishes the rest of her drink and steals another dirty martini from another waitress as she quickly makes her way through the scene and suddenly is by Zoya's side "Erik. We've never met."

She reached out her hand for Erik to take her hand, "I'm Emma Frost, the White Queen."

Laughter lights in Sif's eyes, turning them an almost sapphire shade of blue. "So be it then, my love. No maypole." She doesn't really sound the least bit upset by this. It really was just a way to tease her betrothed. The kiss, upon being dipped, is returned softly. When they straighten, she's smiling brightly and close to laughing. She does so enjoy dancing with him! Her eyes scan the room once more. "Lady Pepper and Tony have decided to attend this evening. Shall we go greet them?"

Tony Stark chuckles at Sebastian's remark, "I have no doubt you /will/ be here fifty years from now, even as we speak there's a portrait somewhere suffering for you." he smiles to the man, before looking back to Lex, "Oh you're right, Lexxypants, that's /not/ the only idealogical difference we have. Another is you talking about saving the world, while I'm out doing it." he reaches out and pats the fellow CEO on the shoulder, "But you go ahead and contact Pepper - she'll make sure you get whatever you need for the Expo. I'd never say no to anyone wishing to take part in that - even you." - Tony smiles to Luthor, but there's a slightly steely gaze that isn't as humored. He looks around "Let's see what else is going here!" he says to no one in particular, making his way farther in the room, and saying to that also no one in particular in a less audible tone, "see if we can't score some hand sanitizer or something.."

"Luthor," Warren tries to step into his field of vision to offer a hand, "Warren Worthington the Third. We've met briefly before..." but it was probably quite briefly, but for his father's sake, he couldn't attend a party and -not- at least greet the man. "My father sends his regards and apologies that he wasn't able to attend this evening, himself."

He also does try to stop Pepper before she gets too far, "Ms. Potts, my girlfriend is a great admirer of your's. She's the redhead seated over there," he nods to Fern's table, "And I know she'd love an opportunity to at least greet you. If you don't mind?"

Dancers, obviously attractive, seem to be all over this place. Heather's not really a member of the Hellfire club, but she has a good amount of money, does lots of charity work, and so found herself on the list of invitees. Her agent thought she should show up and be a part of the entertainment. There is a reason why she is suddenly... agent-less right now. She contacted a designer she loves and spent the afternoon being fitted for a custom gown to stand out at the event. That's why she's a bit late, because her designer friend wasn't fully happy about it and wouldn't let her go out without it being -perfect-. It's not complicated, but... it does fit flawlessly on the model.

Heather is dropped off out front and steps inside the club, her eyes marveling at all of the displays of wealth and power. Her fully tricked out Stark-phone is pulled out of her little clutch and turned to vibrate mode before she puts it away and makes her way inside. "Wow... Daddy won't believe I was -here-." she mutters mostly to herself. Yep, she looks like a tourist! Or more to the point, money that's never been -family-, or -old- money.

Thor turns to follow Sif's gaze, and a huge smile dawns further upon Thor's face.

Wait for it...

"FRIENDS!" thunders the Thunderer, moving toward Tony and Pepper with one arm draped about Sif and the other out stretched in warm welcome. Once more speaking in the All Tongue, so that any that hear him hear his words in the most formal and polite tense of their native tongue, regardless of what that language is.

"It warms my heart to see thee both! And thee as well, Fern Fiddlehead friend of Jocelyn! Come, let us sit and talk and be merry!" calls out Thor, God of Thunder.

A loose chuckle slips past Erik's lips, and he leans conspiratorially towards Zoya, as if reading her thoughts. "When I was a much younger man, it was a common prank to slip in a measure of Stolichnaya vodka to the party's punch," he murmurs to the mad woman. "I imagine, with some motivation, you could determine something equally clever to liven things up." He glances meaningfully at the open bar, where drinks stand ready-poured for thirsty attendees.

At Emma's approach, Erik Lehnsherr clicks his heels together in an old-world gesture, taking Emma's hand in his and tucking his cane smartly under his left arm. "Lady Frost, your reputation precedes you," Erik informs the woman politely, bowing and leaving a polite kiss on the back of her fingers. He gives them a gentle squeeze and straightens, releasing the woman's hand. "I am sorry we've not had the opportunity to meet socially before. It is my great pleasure to finally meet you." The cane slips artfully between his fingers to rest on the ground again, bearing only a small measure of his weight. Clearly, it is more accoutremant than walking aid, his manicured nails tapping a quick statacco beat out against the silver and gold inlaid on the grip.

Sebastian's eye suddenly saw Erik. Well that could be a problem, lets hope that Erik didn't remember him. Instead he tried to focus on the Tony and Pepper but as they move on to greater things he doesn't disturb them. Even when Thor announces his friend to everyone there. No he now saw Heather walk in and smiled, new focus, "Hello, I am Sebastian Shaw, I do not believe we have met yet."

Pepper Potts is about to add a comment of her own to Tony's parting shot at Luthor, but the winged blond man makes that entirely unnecessary, and she quite contentedly steps away alongside her boss after offering Warren a nod and a smile. Her flinch at Thor's greeting is purely because of the volume of his words. Honest. She raises one hand to wave hello to the Aesir prince and his Sword Maiden, then she puts her other hand lightly on Tony's arm. "I'm going to go say hi. Don't wander too far, okay?" Which is code for keep the scotch to less than a gallon, please.

And then there is Thor. and Millie's plans likely go straight out the window, unless she can control him. One look at Thor and, "..." She is favoring the hell no side of that, but she can damn well try. She then looks at Fern, a little in shock at Thor's grand adoration of her and the Stark peeps. She will refind her voice soon enough.

Emma thinks to herself, "Why isn't this Erik the white King? I barely know anything about him and I bet this man could move a mountain with his will. No wonder why Shaw intimidated by him. I MUST know more. It of course doesn't hurt that he is an older, handsome gentleman."

She caught Shaw's thought about the man and then focused on the conversation at hand, "No, a pleasure to meet a legitimate gentleman. I've heard a great deal about you from Sebastian."

Emma now is reading Erik's thoughts, casually.

Fern giggles softly at Millie's reassurances, "Thanks, that's good to know. I've just... not been to many big parties like this." Or... any. Her eyes flit around again, but don't linger anywhere for long, as there seems nowhere particularly "safe" to let them. So she looks toward Warren, and her head tilts curiously at his nod as he's speaking to Miss Potts. There's a slight paling this time, instead of a blush, as Thor booms her name again, but then she can't help but laugh. He's even remembered the full thing. She looks to Millie, almost apologetically saying, "We've met a couple times." She's still a little astonished herself that she even knows Thor and Sif, let alone that they openly acknowledge her. And Thor has a phone and Sif makes soup. Boggling.

"You're not saving the world Mr. Stark. You're showboating. What you're doing is no different than if your father rode over the skies on top of the atomic bomb instead of dropping it on Hiroshima," is what Lex would have replied had the billionaire playboy not gotten distracted by others. Before long Warren Worthington walked into view, "Ah yes. Junior's boy. How is the old man?" Lex says taking warrens hand. "How is your company fairing this quarter?" There could be questions about the wings, mutation, and other things but Lex is trying, keyword, to keep tonight civil. "And the lovely lady you were with this evening? Who is she? Mrs. Worthington I presume?"

Spiking the punch, definitely oldschool. Still, Zoya summons forth a sly little grin to the suggestion. It never quite reaches her eyes, though for most people it would be convincing enough. Between the suggestion and Thor bellowing out a greeting to others within the club she thumbs back toward the Asgardian, nonchalantly stating "Already tried to get him drunk." The results were wholly lackluster, though that particular god still manages to entertain from any part of the room. Big voice, guy's got some serious pipes on him.

Then Emma returns, the introductions between her and Erik quick and formal. Sometimes Zo forgets that this isn't a -casual- casual event, despite the rib-squishing compression of the corset always reminding her not to get too relaxed. Introductions seem to have worked well between those two, maybe she should give it a try. "Is special evenink for you. Zoya Naryshkin, Black Rook."

There, that was easy enough. Not very -fun,- but easy.

Warren somehow manages not to drop his face in his hand when Thor calls out to everyone but he does look sharply over at Fern, an eyebrow lifted in question. But he quickly looks back to Lex, "He's doing well, thank you. He did say something about being too old for this sort of party and I didn't quite understand why he would have said that...until I got here." In regards to the company, he offers a pleasant smile, "Well, we seem to be recovering rather well despite the little dip we took after my public admission, but I'm pleasantly surprised at how things are turning out." At the mention of Fern being 'Mrs. Worthington', his cheeks flush, "Uh, no. That is the very same Fern Fiddlhead who apparently knows him," a nod is given to Thor. "We've recently started dating."

With her arm around Thor and leaning into him slightly, Sif makes her way towards Pepper and Tony just as Pepper starts towards them. She looks over at Fern and smiles once more, using her free hand to wave to the girl and her guest. She isn't the least bit surprised by Thor's bellow. While the Goddess herself isn't prone to such things, it isn't uncommon where they're from so...

At /that/ statement, Erik's eyes flicker. It's momentary- a glance towards Sebastian, almost unreadable even to a keen observer of the human condition. But as to his emotions, well, he's like a tabula rasa. What can be gleaned of his emotional state is as swift and nebulous as a fish passing under a fast-moving river. A flicker, then gone.

"Well. I do hope it's not all bad," Erik remarks, turning a wry expression on Emma. "We've had our disagreements over the years, but, at my age, I have more dear enemies than old friends." He chuckles at the mild joke. "It is a very pleasant evening for me indeed, Miss Naryshkin," Erik informs Zoya. "I spend so much time working that I very rarely get a chance to get out and mingle, socialize. There's a certain pleasure in spending time amongst intellectual peers," he adds, inclining his head towards Emma courteously. "And the company of a lovely lady from overseas. Muscovite?" he asks, his tone more assertion than outright guess.

Offering an apologetic look to Warren, "I'm sorry Mr. Worthington for my presumption," Lex admits. "You and her look so very close. If you find yourself getting closer to the woman do as they say, 'If you love it, put a ring on it,'" he gives Warren a cheery smile then starts to walk away. Who said Luthor can't be cordial or even friendly.

Tony Stark is walking over towards Thor and Sif with a warm grin on his face, he /is/ paused a moment as he looks and sees someone familiar at one of the tables, "Justin," he says raising his glass, "I know what you mean to be all up on that suit and tie. Hope we can get you lit enough to hear that one, later.." and then OOF! He's taken up by the God of Thunder, "Hammer Time..please, I got ribs goin' on here." and is set down. "Good to see you and the missus out, though."

"Well, it seems I should be impressed this time." Millie then smiles brightly at Fern. "Warren Worthington the Third and Thor? My, my," she teases Fern. It's a gentle teasing though. But then she sees Pepper looking their way and smiles warmly, raising a hand to wave slightly.

Thor heads first to intercept TOny, indeed bringing him into that crushing embrace and thankfully NOT patting him roughly on the back as he would to Fandral or Volstag (but NOT Hogun).

"Come! Thou shalt join us! I have yet to thank thee for the gift of the Gardens for Thrimilci," says Thor bosterously as he halfcarries half-leads Tony toward Fern's table. He lets go of Tony so he can do a quick count of chairs, and drag another over if needed. Because he remembered the Winged One was sitting with Fern, and so there needs to be one extra for him when he returns. Seeing Millie with Fern, Thor brings his closed right fist up to his chest and bows lightly to the girl, a warm smile on his face. He glances at Fern to see if he needs to make proper introductions.

Emma Frost is suspiciously quiet for a few moments and suddenly Zoya gets a telepathic message in her mind 

Emma moved a bit closer to Eric and casually brushed her arm up against his accidently of course, "Zoya and I are amongst the most intellectual of this room, I can guarantee this beyond a doubt. I'm not one to mince words past a certain time in the evening."

Being greeted by Shaw himself. Well, it's not that Heather is totally unaware who the rich and powerful of the world and verily, the city are. She's just not really all that -concerned- with them. She puts on her warmest smile... one that she's used on camera quite often as she extends her free hand towards Sebastian. "Mister Shaw!" she exclaims with a perkiness that belies the amount of work done to get into that dress. "Thank you for the personal welcome. I am sorry I am late. I could regail you with a tale of the cause, but I'll just say... this dress is -brand- new... but I couldn't say no to a charity event for the life of me. Daddy'd tan my hide if I did."

Fern laughs softly at Millie's words, shaking her head, "I've just been in a couple right places at the right time." Or, more accurately in the case of Thor and Sif, in the wrong place at the right time. She looks back over to wave to Sif, and her eyes widen at sight of Thor heading for their table, bringing Tony Stark bodily. She stands quickly, still not at ease being entirely at ease around the God of Thunder. "Sir... Thor... It's wonderful to see you," she says, with a curtsey. She still isn't sure if it's proper, but it feels it. "This is my friend, Millie Collins." She doesn't attempt to go on with the introduction, never being able to navigate Thor's many titles, and she looks at him hopefully.

Lex Luthor...just quoted Beyonce to him. Maybe he shouldn't report back to his father on the party. He's not sure that he'd be believed. Warren is left a bit stunned by the advice so he doesn't try to stop Luthor from walking away. He gives a little shake to break out of that shock and goes to look for others he needs to greet. Stark is being hugged by Thor, so he won't go there next. Shaw also looks busy and he starts to return to the table, but upon seeing Thor there, he goes to the bar instead.

Pepper Potts is smart enough -- and fast enough -- to get out of Thor's path so she manages to NOT get that hug as well. And of course she follows the two men over to Fern and Millie's table, smiling and nodding politely to them as a quiet hello. Kind of no point in trying to speak up when Thor's in full friendly mode, after all. She stops a passing server and asks them quietly for a champagne flute with ginger ale in it to hopefully fool people into thinking she's drinking then upon turning back recognizes Thor's expression. Should she interrupt the introduction? Nah.

Tony Stark quietly greets both Fern and Millie as he arrives at the table, though eyes linger on Millie a bit longer than what might be friendly as he takes her in. He sips his scotch, offers nods to them both.

Sebastian smiled and laughed at Heather, "You are not late, this is the Hellfire Club: Do as thou will, and harm none."

Intellectual peers. Well, the White Queen should have that area covered for them both. While there's plenty going on behind the scenes in Zoya's mind, the trick comes in finding a way to access that information. Some bits and pieces are easier to decrypt than others, as Erik effortlessly points out. "You have good ear," she starts in before getting..a message..in her head. It's not her own message. It's someone else's. -Emma's.- A quick glance is passed her way, the stare positively -withering- before it's gone altogether, like it never existed.

Back to Erik she goes, lazy 'smile' returning. "Forgive me, am still learnink language. Words..escape me sometimes, not ideas behind them."

Yeah, so Emma ticked her off with that telepathy thing, but think of the message behind it.

"If would like, could change to native talk? Already have one to translate," she points out with an almost sly grin, looking back to Emma once more. Game faces on, ladies.

Beaming, Thor nods to Fern, then looks to Millie.

"A pleasure and an honor to meet thee, Millie COllins, friend of Fern Fiddlehead. I am Thor Odinson, Child of Jord, Son of Frigga, Lord of Thrudheim, and Crown Prince of Asgard. This is-" Wait wait wait. Is Thor SICK?! He just left off like... half of the really cool titles! What the haybales! "-the valkyire Sif Ragnahilde, Lady of Blades, Shield Maiden of Asgard, Sword Maiden of Thrudehim, and my bethrothed. Here is Tony Stark, the Iron Man, and the lady Pepper Potts. Both of whom are greatly to thank for the locale for a feast that Sif and I shall be hosting very soon. I do hope thou would be in attendance? And thy two friends, Millie and the wing-ed man with whom thou had been sitting," says Thor warmly, pulling out a chair for Sif without even seeming to think about it.

Sif smiles as she approaches the table with Thor, Tony and Pepper. She smiles warmly when it becomes clear that Fern is going to allow Thor to make introductions. When he does however, the Goddess snaps her head around and just stares at him. "Beloved?" Yes, she's -actually- concerned! Thor -never- shortens titles. Ever! Absently, she lowers herself into the chair pulled out for her.

"Well, good to know then Mister Shaw." offers Heather as her radiant smile transforms into a much more natural grin. "So, what does a gal have to do to get a drink around here?" she asks as she starts moving further inside. Her eyes are still roaming quickly about, and then.. oh some people stand out. Thor is one of those people. "You do seem to have a veritable who's who here tonight Mister Shaw. Color me impressed."

Millie smiles warmly and in a friendly manner, "A pleasure to meet you, and please, call me Millie!" She stands up and offers a hand toward Thor. "It is always a joy to meet new acquitances." She's thinking obviously 'please don't squeeze my hand too hard!' Brave woman. Though if her hand isn't broken, she will also greet Sif, "Lady Sif," and her eyes actually turn wary when they catch the lingering look from Stark, and her smile becomes more plastered. "Mr. Stark," and then Pepper, her smile warms, "Miss Potts." Millie hasn't noticed anything odd at this time, obviously. "Fern and I were just talking about my latest project." Maybe she can bore the threat away that is checking her out. Danger Will Robinson! Especially when it's good looking and rich. Yep, ignore the slight flushing of the cheeks, nothing to see here! Supermodel, she's used to it, right?

Even Fern knows that there were some more words supposed to be there, and Thor gets a curious look. But then Sif is there, and she gets the same warm greeting, complete with curtsey and formality, "Lady Sif, it's so nice to see you again." There is no curtsey, but there is polite respect for each of the others, "Mr. Stark, Miss Potts, it's an honor." It's pretty clear who she is, from Thor's booming greeting. Thor gets her attention back, and Fern nods, "I am planning on attending, yes. Thank you, it's very kind of you to extend the invitation." She looks at Millie with a big smile, before her eyes flit away in search of Warren, spying his wings at the bar.

Erik Lehnsherr " "--It's my pleasure, of course--" ," Erik informs Zoya smoothly. His accent is urbane and impeccable, and sounds- to perhaps everyone but Zoya- as if he's a native speaker. " "--I was privileged to spend some time studying in Kiev during my formative years. I developed a passing interest in the native language of your home, and bent my efforts towards attempting a mastery of the tongue. I admit, it has been some time since I had occassion to engage in conversation, so you must forgive me if my grammar is lacking.--" "

He turns to Emma, his body language supremely unconcerned as she brushes up against his side. " "--My dear, words are the measure of the triumph of society,--" " Erik soothes the woman, patting her hand with rawboned fingers. " "--Mincing words is as much art and sport as science.--" " A brilliant smile crosses his face, icy eyes disappearing into a nest of crows feet. " "--Bless you, dear, I hardly ever get a chance to fence with anyone anymore. I've been looking forward to this party.--" "

Erik glances across the room at Millie's distress, his smile easily amused at her plight in the oddly mixed company. (--Spoken in Russian.)

Looking about and seeing everyone in their groups. Getting a shot at Stark, a lunch proposal, Emma to finally do something useful. All in all things are starting to look positive for this social outing. On that note turning on a white heel Lex makes his way out the door heading out to the limo that's been parked outside since the shindig began.

Angel merely orders another drink and strikes up a casual conversation with another socialite he's acquainted with who is also attending the party. Any dancing girls that might come near are politely brushed off and he keeps his wings pressed in close to his back to prevent accidental contact or tripping.

Shaw snapped his fingers and in a moment Heather was handed a glass of wine, "If you want something harder I can make that happen as well." he gestures to his own drink and take a drink, it is is third for the night, but his mutant nature meant he would not even be near drunk for a few hours.

Emma Frost lets out a very soft sigh towards Zoya and genly touches her arm, 

Emma responds to Eric, "I can assure you, we are the most interesting people in this room, so don't disappoint yourself or waste your time. Can I get you a drink?"

Pepper Potts is as surprised as Sif by Thor's abbreviated version of his listing of titles, but just like the others she refrains from commenting. Instead she smiles warmly to both Millie and Fern. "A pleasure to meet you both." Claiming one of the still vacant chairs at the table, she accepts the champagne flute set next to her by one of the waiters. "A project?What sort of project?"

Tony Stark is settling in to a table, presumable the one he and Pepper have been brought to. He drains his scotch in a single flud motion, "I heard these were available still?" he asks to no one particular as he settles in. "So are we all feeling more debauched? I know I have a bit to go but someone the amaeteurs might be ahead of the curve."

Thor just smiles at Sif as he moves to settle into a chair near hers, taking great care to ensure that there's an empty chair next to Fern as he does so. He leans upon the table (very un-high society of hte Prince), to address Tony. "Nay, dear friend. I refrained from bringing mead."

"Somehow, I am not surprised that just about anything is available here." offers Heather. She smirks and shakes her head, "But, that -is- kind of the point, isn't it?" she adds as she takes the glass of wine and takes a small sip. She's no wine snob, or even a conneseur (sp?). She just figures that it would only be polite to have a sip of the proferred drink. It's not like she's worried about being drunk, drugged, poisoned or anything like that.

"Oh look, it's Mister Stark too. I met him about a month ago. It was really weird, he came by my place to give me my old phone, but.. ended up giving me a new one as he tried to invite me out to dinner." She shakes her head fondly at that memory and then looks to Shaw once more.

"Seriously Mister Shaw, thank you for allowing me to be a part of this charity event. I very much appreciate it. Perhaps I should go mingle a bit.." she adds as she spies Millie and lifts a hand to wave, "Hey Millie!" she calls out, just a bit too loud for such black tie occasions.

Huh. Zoya's a little surprised. This Erik guy appears to be full of tricks, first accurately pinning down her accent and now speaking in her own language. Quite well, in fact. It's practically a relief, trying to do that whole American voice always feels so clunky to her. Heck, it's something of a miracle that she can speak and understand it at all!

There's Emma again, too... It's not all about Shaw, nowhere near. It's that whole psychic friends network the club has going for it. Zo has to bite back the sudden flare of temper again. If she's ever going to have an ounce of self-restraint...

Only so that she can completely lose it in some other fashion. 

White Queen on one side, Black Rook on the other. Seems like Erik picked a good time to arrive to the party tonight.

Sif blinks at the Asgardian Prince for a moment before she gives a shake of her head. Whatever. It will be explained to her later. "Lady Pepper, Tony, Lady Fern... It is lovely to see you all again."

She turns to Millie and takes the girl's hand, shaking it slightly. She's learning! "A pleasure and an honor to meet you, Lady Millie." She dips her head slightly.

The talk of mead brings a wistful sigh from the Goddess. "I wish we would have. I would enjoy a good drink." At least the invitation to the Feast has been issued. "We must make sure to extend the invitation to Sebastian as well, beloved, before the night ends."

Fern's attention stays on Warren at the bar, and she leans to see him better through the crowd. There's a light frown as she notes a topless woman lingering near him for longer than a few seconds. As it appears her company is declined and she moves away, Fern's frown eases into a pleased smile. Still, she doesn't take her seat again, because that would entirely cut off her view of her date. And being able to see Warren prevents her from staring at Pepper like a Single White Female. She wouldn't stalk the woman, but she does admire her, and she looks toward Millie, interested herself to hear more of her project.

Tony Stark reaches into his other coat interior pocket and pulls out an elegant, ornate silver flash. He offers it to Sif, first. "Here take a slug - you might get reminded of home. Save some for Thor over there, too."

It's another few minutes of chatting with the socialite before the two move on. Warren downs his second glass before making his way back to the table. He offers a nod to Stark and Pepper before leaning in to murmur something in Fern's ear. He doesn't seem to be actually returning to the table to stay, however, as he steps away again to grab a passing hors d'oeuvre or two.

Pepper Potts takes a sip of the ginger ale in her champagne glass, then upon seeing the flask she sits forward with a frown to speak to Tony quietly and disapprovingly, "Tony, please tell me that's not MEAD."

Thor didn't shake so much as bring her knuckles toward his forehead gently. His grip is calloused, firm, but gentle. She is, after all, a creature far more delicate than himself. He nods to Sif, smiling and moving to stand again.

"You are right," Thor declares loudly and in the aesir tongue. "I shall return," he adds and moves to step away just as Warren is returning. The winged man is given a light bow, but when the angel moves away, Thor just shrugs and heads over to Sebastian.

"My project...," then Stark's words and Millie makes sure to keep the smile from fading on her face. But then toward Pepper, "I actually got Warren to agree to speak with me to assit me with questions and concerns about the gifted and their role in public society. I'm hoping to found a foundation to actually help all gifted better adapt to society or rather society better adapt to them. I admit, the idea came from meeting a young man in difficulty and with no where else to go. He had a power accident at work and lost his job, and almost got hurt because of angry former co-workers. If he had the proper public resources to help him learn to control his powers, the accident could have never happened. This children have no resources available to them freely, but yet we will make efforts to provide others with unique needs special attentions and services. Why should those with these special gifts be excluded from resources they desperately need during their trying teen years?" Yep, Millie's on a roll.

But she does catch herself, a slight blush on Millie's cheeks. "Sorry, I have a habit of getting carried away when I feel passionately about something," she confesses. Though her eyes do flicker toward Stark, frowning slightly finally. She then sighs softly. She doesn't envy Pepper right now, looking compassionately over at the woman. But then Thor is leaving, and she smiles slightly at his departure.

The flask is taken from Tony with a slightly confused look but after a drink, the Goddess smiles brightly and takes another. "I am not sure which f you spoils me more." Sif really adores Tony right now! She'll also hold the flash until Thor's return. It might have some left in it. "Of course, beloved," is said to the God as he stands. She gives a dip of her head to Warren in greeting before she turns an apologetic smile to Pepper.

Erik bows slightly to Zoya. "Kiev was beautiful. Metropolitan. Urban. Full of life, and color." He smiles at the Russian woman. "I should like to return there someday, I think," he says, thoughtfully. "I should make that trip soon, I suppose. At my age- well. We run out of time so quickly," he sighs.

He turns back to Emma. "Actually, if it's not an imposition, the waitress does seem to have forgotten about me. Something clear, and on the rocks...?" he asks politely of the elegant White Queen. "If you don't mind. And you are certainly not wasting my time, I assure you. I am very much enjoying our ... conversation." He smiles again at her, eyes twinkling brightly. He glances sidelong at Millie as she gets on her soapbox, listening with half an ear to her speech.

Millie does look up after seeing Thor off when she hears Heathers voice. But she then smiles brightly and waves at her fellow model. She doesn't yell however or call any greetings.

Warren's approach to the table is watched, and Fern reaches for his arm as he pauses and murmurs. She nods before he moves away, letting her hand slide down his arm and away reluctantly. Waiting for a lull, she leans, speaking mainly to Millie and Pepper, the two closest, in a low voice. "I'm going to slip away for a few minutes. Date," she adds, jerking her head toward Warren with a smile. She steps away quietly, going to find her guardian Angel.

This party is getting a bit crazy, so limits need to be taken into account. She brushed her lips up against Erik's and Zoya's cheeks, "I have a school to run in the morning. But I've slipped my business card into both of your pockets. Call me, and we will breakfast, dinner, lunch, supper, dinner, late night snack. Whatever you prefer, I will make it happen."

She gave them both a casual blow kiss. She gave a casual glance to Shaw, who was of course busy with his own affairs. Emma spoke out loud in English, "So I must depart, call or whatever me. I shall respond. You two are the more interesting individuals of this room."

She glanced towards Shaw before departing the room, finding her own Hellfire bedroom before crashing.

Moving easily toward Shaw, Thor seeks to put a warm hand upon his host's shoulder.

"Sebastian Shaw, if I may have a word with thee," says the Prince in a fashion that is almost a question.

Pepper Potts looks up at Warren as Fern stands to meet him, then smiles and nods to the younger redhead. Go get 'em, tiger. But her attention goes right back to Sif and that flask. Please, Sif, make sure that thing is EMPTY before Tony gets it back. The request is almost visible in her expression. She also makes a mental note of Emma departing, though doesn't wave after the woman or anything like that.

And so Heather claps her hand over her mouth after she calls out. Yep, she didn't realize how much her voice was going to carry. Also, she didn't even think about it until she heard her own voice. She looks back to Sebastian and blushes as she shrugs as if silently apologizing. Then she turns and heads towards Millie.

"What's shakin' girl?" she asks as she hip-bumps her friend and co-model. "I see you're meetin' the bees knees of the city here." she says as she gestures towards Sif and Thor. "Good to see you two again." she adds with a grin. "Oh, and hi Mister Stark." she adds all nice and formal.

Shaw looked at Thor and said, "What word would have of me m'lord?"

The problem with parties? They don't run themselves, as much as people would like them to. Zoya can't help but frown upon hearing that Erik's drink has gone forgotten, taking Emma's card and tucking it into the front of her corset as casually as can be. "--I will take care of it. Enjoy your evening, perhaps we shall meet again.--"

To that she slips away from Erik's presence. By gods, that man will receive his drink. If she figures out who here dropped the ball then it's not likely going to be a mistake they will make twice. Ever.

(--Spoken in Russian.)

Abruptly left to his own devices, Erik shakes his head. He gathers something to himself- presence, charisma- and those walls go back up, an invisible forcefield that's utterly intangible and yet palpable to anyone within arms reach. He hoists his cane up and taps the handle to his forehead in salute towards Shaw, and cuts a path to the hat rack. He reclaims his hat and his stole, draping it over his broad shoulders, and donning the headgear with a casual flick of his fingers. With a smile for Millie, he turns on his heel and takes his leave of the Hellfire Club- for the time being.

"My lady, the valkyrie Sif, and I are holding a festival during Thrimilci, at the Botanical Gardens. Doth thou know where that is?" Thor pauses to wait for confirmation, and when received he continues on.

"It would greatly please both Sif and myself if thou were in attendance. Sif is nearly done with the Midgardian invitations and shall see them set out in short order. I shall ask her to include one for thee and a guest, if thou would like. Thy warm welcome and hospitality must be returned in kind," he says, smiling warmly and brightly, and winningly.

"Oh, do take care Fern!" Millie's voice sounds warm toward the other woman, and a little disappointed to see her leave. But she does return her attention to Pepper. Millie motions to a seat next to her when Heather comes out, "Please, have a seat Heather. Heather, this is Pepper Potts and...apparently you know Mr. Stark." Millie is very thankful to have Heather there suddenly. Though she does catch Erik's departure and a warm smile blooms across her face, lighting it up with warmth. Geez, hero worship. Boy, she might just be disappointed later!

Sebsatian Shaw smiled at the God of Thunder and told him, "I will be tere, I promise. And a promise by a Shaw is made of diamond."

A wave is given to Fern as she takes her leave. "Be safe, Lady Fern," Sif says with a bow of her head. She then turns her attention on Pepper, gives a smirk and a nod and takes another long drink from the flask. "Greetings, Heather," is said when the woman approaches the table before silver blue eyes slip over to Thor and Shaw.

Thor smiles and nods, a bright laugh given at the metaphor. "Yes. Of course, my friend," says the Thunderer, patting Shaw's shoulder once before turning away to returning to the table with his friends... and Sif drinking from a - "What hath thou there, Lady Sif, and doth thou think to share?" He's already reaching out to snatch the flask. gimme!

Pepper Potts raises her eyebrows at Millie's explanation and she turns to talk to Tony about it, but is distracted by Heather's arrival. "Hello, Heather, good to meet you."

"Ah yes, I highly doubted that Mister Stark would be allowed out without someone responsible to keep him out of trouble." she offers as she holds a hand to Pepper, "Oh, we've met. You helped me out with a problem I had named Andrew... agent who was trying to promise I'd do a pictoral in Playboy or some such." she shakes her head, "Thanks again for.. handling him."

Sif blinks before laughing brightly. "A gift from our friend Tony!" It was nice to have a drink that had a bit more kick than water. The flask is relinquished willingly to the God. Her attention flickers to said man before going to the other women gathered and then up to Thor, -something- flashing in them before she smiles once more.

"Indeed! I do feel, more and more, that Tony was born upon the wrong realm!" Thor brings the flask to his lips just in time to not catch Sif's glance at him. He drains the last of the drink with reliquish, before handing the flask back to Sif.

"Oh goodness Heather, seriously?" Millie shakes her head. She remembers her first boyfriend after Heather's story..bad memory..she did punch the guy though. "Really, if you didn't punch him, you have much more control over your temper than me Heather. Then again, mother always did say I should have been born red-headed as a warning label. Though she steals a look then to the god and goddess, "Well, it appears you made at least two people very happy tonight Mr. Stark."

Sebastian Shaw interjected... Thor could be here all day about his acomplishments. Lady Sif kept him, mosttly in line but she was not perfect, the old gods tended to not be. Using his own clout he managed to pull Millie and Heather away again. He smiled and said, "I'm sorry ladies, some of our guests can tend to be the extreme. But what else can you expect from gods?"

Sebastian Shaw interjected... Thor could be here all day about his acomplishments. Lady Sif kept him, mosttly in line but she was not perfect, the old gods tended to not be. Using his own clout he managed to pull Millie and Heather away. Or rather, he could make sure that Thor and Sif could move on. He smiled as he sat with Millie, Heather, Tony and Pepoer and said, "I'm sorry ladies, some of our guests can tend to be the extreme. But what else can you expect from gods?"

Pepper Potts nods and smiles at Heather. "He's not given you any further trouble, I hope? Because I can always speak with him again if need be." She looks at Thor when he returns from talking to Shaw and manages to mostly successfully hide a bit of a smug smirk behind her champagne glass when he drains the flask of its contents. That's that much less for Tony to poison himself with. Then Shaw is there and her eyebrows draw together at his comment about gods. It's not quite a frown, just almost. "I'm sorry, Mr. Shaw, did you just imply that Thor and the Lady Sif are ... somewhat boorish?" Yes, she just went there.

Muttering a bit too loud, Sebastian shakes her head, "Well, I could ask that they be blonde, hot, ripped, and single." And she shrugs, "Well Millie, I didn't punch him because... he was in Boston on the phone with me. Pepper there fired his happy ass for me on the spot. It was a thing of beauty." And then Pepper's question to Sebastian makes even Heather blush as she shuts the heck up and says nothing more, nope, nothing... damn, she wants to though.

Its clear Thor hadn't considered Sebastian bad mouthing him, and so when Pepper asks, he turns to look at Sebastian to wait for an answer, one brow quirked. His hand comes to rest on Sif's shoulder, not sitting down.

Well, while Stark is off doing Stark things. Millie is...ready to bang her head against the table. "I thought Mr. Shaw meant larger than life itself," as she quickly smooths things over. Then she could kick herself for doing that, bad habits of keeping the peace when she isn't ready to lose her temper anyway! She then rolls her eyes toward the ceiling dramatically, "That does it, everyone has to donate to my new foundation when it's officially founded with either time and/or money. Because that is what will make me happy." She then crosses her arms over her chest, and raises an eyebrow at Shaw as if daring him to not make her happy. Hey, he sat down, he got himself stuck into that corner!

Sif hadn't even considered it either but the moment it's brought to her attention, silver-blue eyes narrow slightly and the Goddess starts to stand only to have Thor's hand come down on her shoulder which effectively stills her.

Shaw corrects himself because Pepper was correct, he made Thor and Sif sound borish and that was not what he meant, "The Asgardian Gods," the man who sold himself as a Conservative Christian said, "Are amazing people, and I will have them back for ever single event I would ever have."

And he look to Millie and said, "And honestly, if you were looking to Stark for this," he reached into one fo the many pockets he had in that outfit and said, "Two or three million? Which would be better for you"

Pepper Potts ohs and nods slightly though does not seem completely mollified by Shaw's response to her question. And then he offers to throw money at Millie for her new project. As generous as money is, sometimes help with administrating a new project to get it off the ground with a GOOD start is more important. But, she doesn't jump in and say so right away, because it would make it seem like she's trying to one-up the evening's host. If necessary, she'll contact Millie later and offer the administrative support.

Grinning then, Heather turns to regard Millie, "Hey, I'd heard through the grapevine about your foundation idea. Think I can get in on the ground floor and help out with time, money, and hard work?... To be honest, I'd rather miss out on the last part if I was forced to pick one." she adds with a chuckle. But she looks to Sebastian as he throws out such numbers, and a low whistle escapes her. She's a midwest girl born and raised, and not really one for the sort of pokerface most folks ascribe to the rich elite.

Used to the court at Asgard, Thor presses his lips into a thin line, all trace of happy and friendly gone. Especially as the mortal seems to fling money about when the real help is hands and hearts. He seems to take an unneeded breath in order to sigh delicately.

"Come, beloved. Let is away. Amora is a more pleasant company, I think," says Thor, tone formally stiff, elegantly cold, and completely Princely. He even offers Sif his elbow to lead her away... or rather, to have her teleport them away. Whichever. As he waits for Sif to rise and decide which egress she would like best, Thor turns his blue-gray eyes toward Pepper, and makes a neat little bow.

"Lady Pepper, as always it is good to see thee. If thou doth need anything..." Thor lets his words trail off as a flicker of lightning dances across his gaze.

Gracefully, Sif rises from her seat. Her own features have gone rather impassive as well. "Of course, my love." Her arm is linked through his, hand resting delicately. She gives a gentle smile and a dip of her head. "A pleasure." And with that, God and Goddess simply... Disappear.

Sebastian Shaw hugs Sif and Thor! They are amazing!

"Just remember that promise Mr. Shaw. I haven't established it or a bank account to put it anywhere." Millie shakes her head, but does smile a bit when Shaw so easily offers such large sums. "I'm sure the gifted kids would appreciate it too as the money would be to help them and society better work as a unit." And come on, it's -SHAW-, would you really want him donating the time? He might seduce the help into the back rooms. Millie tries to be practical in how she saves the world. Alright, so she isn't afraid to use an underhanded trick or two when she has to.

Though Millie smiles warmly at her friend, "I'd love that Heather. I want to speak to Warren about the gifted and dealing with public society and what avenues may be best to travel to better move society to better integrate rather than isolate. I've already thought of fundraiser ideas, but I'm ahead of myself. I really am just looking for an excuse to play Tennis again. Superheroes are like a big deal these days, so I thought if I played a superheroine it could work out. I'd have to start training again though." She then mmmms, "Ah," she motions to a passing waiter, "Please bring a pen and some paper." She then says, "I really should cave in and get business cards made," she confesses. She then looks over at the stiff Thor and Lady Sif, about to speak, but her mouth closes as her efforts did not work.

Pepper Potts nods to the Aesir as they take their leave, totally understanding the prince's reaction and not bothering to explain it to Shaw at all. If he can't figure it out on his own... "Well, I'd better go track Tony down and make sure he's not offending anyone." She scoops up his now-empty flask to tuck into the small clutch purse she's kept with her, finishes her champagne glass of ginger ale, then moves to stand as well. "Heather, it was wonderful seeing you again, we should meet up for lunch sometime. Millie, please give me a call when you have some time to talk?"

Well, when the waiter comes by with pen and paper, Millie jots her contact information down real quick and hands it to Pepper. "Most certainly. I'm often text O.K., as I catch up on them in breaks during shoots. We can set something up," she says.

And despite what has been said of him, despite what his political views seemed to say he responded with this; a blank check, "Trust me, I have a vested intrest in all of this.

"Night Pepper. Tell Mister Stark thanks again for the phone." says Heather before she turns to Millie and yes, Sebastian. "Well, I could always put on my Titans costume and play against you. It's not like my special abilities would make me any better at Tennis aside from maybe the serve. Keep in mind, I think the only tennis I have ever played was on the Wii..."

But then she looks towards Thor and Sif as they depart and her face scowls just a bit. "Well, that sucked." she mutters.

Millie is staring at the blank check, "What? I know I'm trustworthy, but really Mr. Shaw....," she's a bit in shock, and then Heather's bomb, "What?!" She raises her hands, a hand on each check. "Wait a second. Let me get a reality check right now. I may be a supermodel and one of the top ten in the world, but really? I'm about to be handed a blank check by Mr. Shaw and I just found out my casual fellow model friend is a Titan, and isn't that like a superhero team?" There is a pause from Millie. "..." Finally she says, "I mean they rank up right there with each other," suddenly thoughtful, "Which one is more shocking?" Another pause, "Wait, no, Heather bodyguards, so likely the blank check." Then Millie's eyes move to meet Mr. Shaw's...a vested interest. A confused expression. The dropped hint bomb is there, but Millie does not speak the question outloud. Her mind is whirling, but considering Heather eats like a horse and never gains a pound, at least Millie things she knows what her superpower is...the auto-diet superpower.