10581/Brunch

Brunch
Date of Scene:	27 March 2022
Location:	Carrion Cove
Synopsis:	Lorna, Pietro and Clarice have brunch. Many things are discussed and mimosas are had.
Cast of Characters:	Lorna Dane, Pietro Maximoff, Clarice Ferguson

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Lorna Dane has posed:
The city was rebuilt... No, not rebuilt. It was entirely new. What had been here wasn't rebuilt, it was redone entirely. Local businesses seemed to be picking up, one would say even thriving, as it had been several months now of getting back into the routine of every day life. While a good chunk of the island nation was still under construction, Lorna had done her best to make sure basic necessities were met on all fronts: Housing, schools, food, even recreation to ensure the spirits of the people were seen to as much as the daily needs. Here in Carrion Cove it was as if no destruction had happened only two years prior.

Lorna had picked a spot at a small cafe to recline in enjoying the sunlight though she opted for one of those overly large sun-hats seen at the beach to help keep herself from burning in the sun. Her attire was relaxed, casual, simply enjoying the day. Slacks and a sleeveless blouse in her trademark shade of green.

People knew who she was. She'd nod toward them as they passed, clasped hands with a few who wished to speak to her, but otherwise most were content to simply see their monarch out and enjoying the day the same as they were.

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
Where he could, Pietro did help. Moving materials, running packages, whatever could be done to better the people of Genosha and their rebuilding process. Royalty has duties, after all! He was not a strange face to most the people in the area, though potentially a blurred one.

His demeanor had been turning, as well - moving from the frustrated and angry man most knew, to a more understanding and approchable person. Perhaps with all the time he has to think, he's done some re-evaluation of his life? Regardless, it was something some people had spoken on - though not around him.

Pietro had blurred past the cafe in the blink of an eye. Realizing who he had spotted - the man did a quick about-face and came to a stop near Lorna's table. "Waiting on someone? Or can a brother join his sister for brunch?"

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane blinks at the first blurr of wind that passes even as she lifts her drink for a sip. She's already smiling by the time he doubles back to greet her. Lowering the glass she gestures toward the other seat here with a small nod. "I'd be glad to have the company, Pietro. It's been awhile since I just took a day to myself so I thought a little time enjoying the spring weather would be nice. Plus," she adds with a nudge of her chin toward the menu already lain on the table from earlier. "The food here really is excellent. I've already ordered a crabcake omelette with bacon wrapped asparagus on the side." Fancy.

"And a milkshake." Not so fancy. She had her preferences and they weren't always hoity toity.

Smiling across to him she inquires, "How have you been lately? Keep company with anyone interesting yourself?"

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
There's a nod, and then he's sitting. Quick quick. "Everyone needs a day for self-care and relaxation, Queens as well." Pietro grins, quickly scanning over the menu himself. His blue eyes scan up towards the sky - a slight sigh of relaxation. "The weather is turning out to be quite nice. I suspect the rainstorms will be breath-taking to see, however. Spring and its volatile change of seasons." The man chuckles.

"I have been... good. Getting better." He says, after a moment of thought. "I've met some interesting people. Spoke with Wanda a bit. I think I've seen her new romantic interest... though he may only be new to me." A slight shrug. "Met an interesting tattoo artist, in New York." A glance to her, then. "How about you, Lorna? How have you been? I am hoping not too overly stressed?"

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    There's a flash of purple energy as Clarice appears, just beside the restaurant. With the vast number of mutants on the island nation, and their wide variety of gifts it doesn't go as remarked as it would - even in New York - so with few glancing at her, at her vibrantly magenta skin, she approaches the restaurant. Her footsteps falter for a moment as she spots Pietro sitting across from Lorna, but she continues her approach with a wry expression on her features.
    "I was so late you called you brother for company?" She asks - adding a nod of her head towards the speedster. "Your Highness."

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane lifts her eyebrows at mention of a tattoo artist. There's an unspoken question there though she doesn't pry. I mean. She could. But she opts not to simply nodding and remaining quiet because sometimes that was the best way to get someone to continue speaking about a subject. It doesn't seem to work so much for Pietro though as he returns the question toward her.

"Ah, well. I've been busy." She glances off down the street enjoying the view herself with a nod. "The forecast seems as if it'll be good so far. We've got a few crops that could use the rain. It's not native, but we've started some coffee plants on the Eastern side of the mountain where the rain and sun is excellent. Genoshan origin coffee could be an excellent source of trade." Glancing back she can only shrug to her brother.

"I can't claim I've met anyone new with any regularity. I was... enteraining the idea of someone's company awhile back, but he seemed rather not interested." It's shrugged off, and thankfully the apperance of Clarice gives her plenty of distraction from it. "Ah, Clarice. It was just chance we ran into one another." Was that a pun? Dammit, it may have been. "Pull up another chair. There's plenty of room."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
Manners are still a thing, as Pietro stands to allow Clarice a chance to pull up a chair and sit. Assuming she does, he resumes his seat with a nod to her. "Good morning, Clarice. We were going to share brunch." He motions to the menu - of course he just got here, so his order still needs to be placed.

And no, no real deeper discussion of the artist he'd met. He plays some things close to the chest - lest he get the potential teasing from siblings. "I shall hope for rain, then. I have yet to see the storms in this area - I think I shall make a point of stepping out into the rain once one occurs." He decides, crossing one leg over the other as he settles in his seat.

His brow does arch at the comment of entertaining someone's company... Pietro looking to Clarice as if to see if she knew of this mysterious person. Blue eyes go back to Lorna, a slight smile. "And it is his loss for his lack of interest, Lorna."

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    If Clarice knows, she's giving no sign of it on her features, as she gestures Pietro back into his seat. "Oh, no need to stand on my account," she says hastily, as she pulls a chair around and takes a seat as well.
    "The coffee crops aren't struggling, are they?" she asks with concern. "If we build a holding tank - I could always blink in a supply of fresh water to use for irrigation. Or I'm sure there are other mutants on the island who would have similarly useful talents," she suggests easily, smiling gratefully as a menu is passed to her by one of the waiters.
    It's amazing the service you get when sitting with two members of the royal family.

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane offers a bit of a laugh at the sudden concern for the crops from Clarice. A quick shake of her head is given. "No, not at all, they're taking on fine. I'm just hoping things continue as well as they have been. It's time we had some good luck around here." Even as she says this a couple who look far more touristy than locals passes by murmering to one another and pointing in their direction. She raises a hand to wave at them with a winning smile, and they quickly scurry off.

"Even the refugees from New York that we helped seems to have aided in our reputation quite a bit. There are fewer people seeing us as a ruined nation these days. It helps quite a lot when dealing with politicians, I assure you."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
See? See? Siblings. Neither of them will discuss that subject further! "Manners are manners, Clarice." Pietro offers a nod to the magenta-hued woman who has joined them. It seems he'll wait for Clarice to order, before placing his own. A smile to Lorna. "I suspect with the focus and determination of Genosha, her people and her Queen that everything will push ahead wonderfully." A nod is given to those tourists as well - no wave. Perhaps he's just a touch surly, still, after all.

"I did manage to meet an event planner when attending a Mardi Gras party. I had thought to introduce her to you, Lorna - in case we might start having celebratory balls for the rebuilding of Genosha?" A slight shrug. "Or Royal Balls? Or Fetes of any nature?"

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "I think some parties to bring Genosha back on the world stage wouldn't be a bad idea," Clarice agrees, as she eyes the menu. Eventually she places an order for a scrambled egg dish with spicy peppers in it, and flat bread to eat it with - and a side dish of tropical fruits.
    "I'm glad that helping the refugees has lent us some more respectability once more - I mean, in addition to simply being the right thing to do, after all the help we'd recieved."

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane swirls her mimosa in the glass she holds contemplating the thought. "It wouldn't hurt to have a few events. Maybe a festival or something similar, rather than just one big event?" Her head tips toward the row of buildings down the street indicating them. "As enjoyable as parties are, something that doesn't exclude anyone based on their age or ability to attend would be good as well." There's a pause here as her eyes drop back down to the table, and she smiles wistfully.

"Growing up with my mother and step-father, we would on occasion attend a Strawberry Festival yearly. It wasn't hugely extravagant but I have pleasant memories of it. Something similar here, perhaps, if not based on food alone." It seems just talking aloud has helped her consider the topic as she nods more to herself than the pair she shares the table with. "I'd love to meet this event organizer, Pietro, to see what we could come up with."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
Pietro mused on it, thinking for a moment. Then it was time to order food! He ordered a full meal - bacon, sausage, french toast, hash browns - the works. Caloric intake was important to the man. "Well, perhaps a weekend or week long festival? Like Carnival or Mardi Gras? Something to commemorate the regrowth and rebuilding of our homes and people's lives?" The man offers over, hrming just a bit. "That way there could be events for children and adults alike?"

"To step even further, perhaps have a ball with entry for any Genoshan citizen? Others, dignitaries and celebrities, could potentially donate to come?" A slight smile. A nod then to Lorna. "I will make arrangements. I've also been asked by several, as to how to help - or if we are accepting visitors to the country?"

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "Like Kadooment in Barbados!" Clarice says enthusiastically. Yes - that's a real word. "I'm going to take Theo and Pete to Kadooment Day this August - it's the end of the Crop Over festival. A grand, masquerade parade through the city with dancing, and costumes - brightly colored feathers, and sequins, and- I mean, it's one of my clearest childhood memories. It was just so exciting, and it was one of the few times when I was little when no one seemed to pay attention to me." Which had been baffling to her at the time.
    "But we have to find a way to make it uniquely Genoshan," she muses quietly. "To make it focus on our gifts, perhaps."

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane tips her head to the side considering thoughtfully before a small smile creeps over her. "A contest?" Her eyebrows lift faintly at it. "To show the most creative use of abilities, perhaps? Rather than having a singing contest or something, have something in which we celebrate our unique abilities. At least for those who would like to, certainly there's no need to pressure those who aren't into showmanship." Chuckling faintly she adds, "In some cultures they have celebrations with loud noises and bright lights to chase away the darkness, or Winter. Not quite that but something similar perhaps."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
The white-haired man listens, nodding to the suggestions. "I think we're on the right track with these, I do." He smiles. "We could ask the people to see how they feel about it? Customs come from the people, as well as from the ruling class. Or they should, rather." Pietro murmurs.

A smile at the enthusiasm Clarice shows for Kadooment. "I think yes, something to showcase Genosha's culture. Gifts, history, all of that. Everything to celebrate being a Genoshan and our culture." Pietro suggests.

"Though, such a thing does bring to mind - is there some sort of uniform or outfit I should wear in formal occasions?" He chuckles.

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "Like crowning the Calypso Monarch!" Clarice agrees eagerly, a broad smile on her features. Why not borrow pieces of Bajan culture for Genosha? Even if it was only part of her young life - it was still what was familiar to her.
    Her expression falters for a moment at the mention of Genoshan history before she remarks, "The only Genoshan history I care to remember is what we've been building for the past seven years. Not that the rest should be forgotten it's just- that's more a matter of something to //commemorate,// rather than celebrate. You know?" She gives a shrug of her shoulders without anything beyond that.

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane points to Pietro when he mentions getting ideas from the people. "That is my thought exactly. I can draw information or ideas from elsewhere but ultimately it's not MY decision. Or, at least, I'd rather it isn't. The festival itself will be my contribution. What is made of it though..."

She trails off when Clarice brings up the bad memories only to take a slow deep breath. "Surely even before Genosha was what it was, there were some traditions here. Before it was a place of hate, and before it is what it is now. Something rooted in the past that is worth keeping. Dance? Music? Food?" She shrugs a bit at that with a grin of amusement as Pietro asks about uniforms and outfits.

Pulling up the tablet that seems constantly at her side these days she deftly swipes her fingers over the surface picking out a certain folder, which she hands over to Pietro. "Not necessarily, but I've been dabbling at creating some kind of formal royal attire. Take of it what you will. It borrows a bit off of military parade attire but more comfortable and... Ah, well, here's one of the dresses to show you an idea. The off the shoulder half-cape ..." Here she trails off with a polite clearing of her throat. "If you're interested in such things." https://www.amazon.com/GOBLES-Womens-Shoulder-Bodycon-Cocktail/dp/B07R23FY4M/ref=sr_1_4?qid=1648415315&refinements=p_n_feature_nine_browse-binA2359346011&s=apparel&sr=1-4&th=1&psc=1

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
Sharp eyes look to Clarice, a brow raised. "Why would I suggest revisiting the trouble of the past? As Lorna says, there was history prior to that. While we cannot ignore such history that troubled the world, we cannot remove it either. Revisionism would hurt everyone." A shake of his head. "We accept what has happened, then grow and better ourselves for the future." He says, seriously. "I would not celebrate the hatred at all. It would not be something to have in a festival."

Pietro reaches for a glass of water, taking a long sip. "Dance, music. Art of the people. Show off the talent of Genosha." He says, clearing his head after a moment. When the tablet is displayed, he smiles. "I think it is good - modern with class and style." He agrees. "I just hope you don't dress me in something horrible.:"

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "Well. I mean, most of the people of Genosha are immigrants - or have only been here a generation or two. That's the nature of a mutant homeland, really. They bring their own traditions, and culture, and history //with// them," Clarice points out. "What was here before that... I honestly don't know," she admits - looking a little puzzled at the idea. But in theory, the island was inhabited before. Right?
    Glancing at the image on the tablet, Clarice grins as she adds, "I would wear the hell out of that, myself. But it probably wouldn't do for one of the Queen's guards to be seen wearing the same attire at the Queen Herself."

Lorna Dane has posed:
"That's just the starter idea. I do have a similar one with a bit more flare already made up for when I met with Namor. If I was going to visit a foreign nation I had to wear my best," Lorna points out with a grin. The tablet is taken back to swipe her fingers over it again seeking something out. "Mmm. You're correct. A sharing of traditions, then. Though I am curious myself what was here before it was colonized. That history should be included at least in records to preserve their memory. That might be a project at some point." The tablet is offered over the table again with a faint clearing of her throat.

"I realize these are cartoon drawings, but I admit the style is something I'm enamored of. I think something similar would look rather dashing on you, Pietro." What? Even Queens had to have ways to relax. Lately that had been reading Manhwa for Lorna.

"We can come up with guard attire as well, Clarice. Really it wouldn't hurt to have some sort of uniform for fancy functions even if we aren't obligated to wear them around our people all the time."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
"Perhaps a royal historian might be in order? Someone to delve into the pre-history of Genosha, and document things for posterity?" The man sits back, regarding the suggested outfits for the royal males. "I would not mind the cut or the fashion, though I would wish to make certain I would not be mocking or impersonating someone with military rank." A wry grin.

A look to Clarice and Lorna. "Guard attire would be wonderful. I think... all of this, will help bring people together. Even getting the people's suggestions on ceremonial dress and such. It could even be a contest among the citizens?"

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "I wouldn't protest some official attire," Clarice agrees. "I think it'd be helpful for people to know you're not undefended. I mean - not that you can't look after yourself, but still... That they have to take into account more than your own formidable magnetic capabilities if they wish to harm the leader of Genosha."
    As the food is brought out, Clarice offers a quiet thanks before she begins nibbling at her eggs - scooping them up with the flat bread.
    "I'd be interested to learn more about what was on this island //before// the nation of Genosha."

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane clears her throat lightly once again as she raises her glass to sip from. From around the rim she mumbles, "I actually made myself a crown. Steel and hemitite. Which means I can easily take it apart to use as a weapon in a pinch without seeming as if I'm armed in the first place." Is she blushing? Just a bit. She may be Royalty here but she was still getting accustomed to some of it, and wearing a crown seemed oh-so-very pompous. Yet. Secretly? What woman didn't want a crown?

With the food now brought out she leans away from the table to allow the servers to set it down. Her mimosa is placed to the side in favor of plucking up a fork so she could daintly begin attacking her crabcake omelette. "That's an excellent idea of course, both of them. So. We've a festival in the works, with plenty of contests including showing off customs from various cultures, powers, and designs of how they would like to see the royalty present themselves. We don't really have a military of sorts. Hm. Something to look into as well." Here she pauses to blow on her bite of food before tucking it away to chew in the most polite way possible.

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
Regal bearing was not something uncommon to Pietro. Being royalty was, however. So much of his time previous was spent with an aloof aire about him, that most would think the donning of an actual title was no big thing. This wasn't entirely the case - as now more people were looking at him, watching his moves. "A clever use of your gifts, Lorna." A slight smile. "But Clarice is right, even the sight of royal guard can do more to dissuade the would-be trouble makers, without even taking into cosideration your skills at defending yourself." A chuckle.

"There are many thoughts to deciding upon a military force... I would imagine other nations may fear what we might assemble, in terms of raw power." He comments, as he plucks up his fork to start digging into his meal. "Do we make it voluntary? Mandatory for short tours of service? It's hard to say. I've done a lot of reading, but this is practical application in which I hadn't thought I'd use in my life."

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "None of us are ever really unarmed," Clarice points out simply. "They'd be hard pressed to get you in a location where there are //no// magnetic metals around."
    Clarice frowns momentarily, looking down at her plate as she considers her words. "I'd be hesitant to make service mandatory," she points out, "and impose that on a formerly oppressed population. People come here seeking safety and belonging. I'm not the only one who was forced into being a weapon against my will. To tell people like that they're //required// to serve... I think it has to be a choice," she asserts, looking between Lorna and Pietro. "I'm sure there are many who'd make that choice."

Lorna Dane has posed:
That was a topic Lorna was torn on. "I believe that if it is manditory or not should be left to vote for the people as well. However, I think perhaps even something such as a mandatory term of community service might be helpful. In a similar way to how Peace Corp is run perhaps, as a means to help each individual find where their abilities are put to good use should the need arise. But no," she adds glancing up from her food. "I would never presume to make a fighting force manditory. Even if we did similar to Korea and required manditory service, that would not be for fighting purposes. Only volunteers or those who wish."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
Pietro Maximoff says, "Or the Nation of Israel. It is mandatory, but I believe they can pick their field of study or service." A nod to Clarice and Lorna. "I agree, though, it could be seen in a bad light by the people. It is a good thing to bring this to them and ask their input." More of his brunch is consumed, the man making no bones about wanting or needing the meal.

"As I mentioned, these are all odd real world situations that are thrust upon our Queen. It's a lot to think about." He says, quietly. "I am here to help where I can, and offer my opinion, where I can." A slight shrug. "I feel a lot of Genosha rests on the will of her people.""

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "Mandatory //service// might not be so bad," Clarice admits a bit hesitantly. "As long as it's clear that each individual would have the right to choose from things like... military service, or education, or civil service... Perhaps even civil engineering, or agriculture. But I think there should be an option to opt out for people who've been oppressed in the past - whether they experienced forced weaponization, or slavery, or... anything like that. I just... I don't think there should be anything people see as a reason not to seek freedom and safety in Genosha." She pushes her fruit around with her fork as she talks, a faint frown on her features.
    "And perhaps - instead of a permanent military... what if we considered something like a 'National Guard'? Where volunteers get periodic training to keep their skills up, without having a standing military? It's a thought, anyways."

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane jabs her fork in Clarice's direction with a nod of ready agreement. "That's generally what I would more prefer. Something with occasional training so that we can work together if necessary, but not shoehorning people into one particular job for the rest of their lives. And of course there would be those that could opt out due to past trauma. I've no desire to harm people more." Here she considers again. "Perhaps Switzerland is a better model to follow." A deep breath is taken, let out in a sigh, and she grabs for her milkshake. Cookies and cream.

"Well now that this has all been discussed, change of topic?" She inquires hopefully. "I had hoped to take a day off of work. Perhaps I should attend the Hellfire Club at some point."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
Pietro nods in agreeance with that. "I agree, that is the best scenario, in truth. Genosha has the fortune right now that people are not clamoring over each other to try to take things from us." He says, quietly. "No need to revisit someone's trauma, indeed." He says, sipping his water.

There's a chuckle. "The woman who is interested in visiting and seeing Genosha, as well as helping plan events, works at the Hellfire Club." The man explains. "She was the one who orchestrated their Mardi Gras celebration."

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "Well, everyone's welcome to visit Genosha - unless they're anti-mutant terrorists. In which case visiting Genosha would be very risky to their health and prosperity," Clarice replies with amusement, digging into her food again, before turning her attention back to Lorna.
    "Woul you be interested in visiting Barbados for Kadooment Day with Theo and Pete and myself? It should be a blast. I haven't gone since I was very young, but I loved it. I remember that."

Lorna Dane has posed:
"That's true. I'm not against opening things up to tourism at all. Though we would of course be vetting those that come in. I imagine it'll be a small enough amount at first that we could easily make sure they aren't potential terrorists," Lorna agrees with a solemn nod. There was already an infrastructure in place for that after the acceptance of the refugees from New York. It wouldn't take much to alter it for tourism.

"For... Kadooment? I've never been. Or to Mardi Gras, either," she admits with a faint smile. "My upbringing was a bit strict in what I could and couldn't do. I think it would be lovely to attend."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
Pietro makes quick work of his brunch, his stomach sated for the moment. "Terrorists would be... the singular most damning choice someone could make." A shake of his head. "Here's to hoping the fools are focused on other choices they can make for themselves, that do not involve Genosha."

"I will check the people who ask, and vet if needed for those who speak to me. I would imagine the Avengers database should be able to sort out any obvious troublemakers." He hrms. "I'll even escort some of them, if needed. I would take responsibility for those who came. I did forewarn those who've asked, that we are still rebuilding. They seemed eager to help."

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "We haven't had any trouble with the volunteers who've been visiting the orphans," Clarice points out. "That's been going wonderfully - thankfully. Those kids need so much support." Honestly, anyone who survived the attack on Genosha needed the support. It had been beyond traumatic - even if she often brushed aside the affect it'd had on her.
    "And there were only limited incidents with the refugees. I think we're overestimating the amount of risk tourism would pose us."

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane smiles softly at the pair with their own assurances of keeping things safe. "I trust you to that then, Pietro. I know you wouldn't pull anyone here to help that would be a danger, or if they did make that mistake, it would be dealt with quickly. And yes... The refugee situation went rather well. Even the small outbursts that we did have were quickly quenched. A few times by locals who spread the word immediately."

"I think this festival idea would also do well for bringing in tourists, too. A good time to demonstrate that we are still here, and still a strong people worth celebrating where ever we originally came from."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
Nodding a bit, Pietro smiles. A change of topic is clearly needed. Only so much politicking can be done, after all. "I look forward to celebrating and enjoying the parties that are sure to spawn from such a holiday." The man smirks. He motions to one of the waitstaff, indicating Lorna's mimosa and ordering one for himself and Clarice, should she want one.

"So tell me of this man who failed to recognize the wonder that is my sister?" He asks, eyes on Lorna, a look of mischief on his face.

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "Someone's already planning out the pranks in his mind," Clarice remarks in an amused tone of voice. "....err. Your Highness," she adds a moment later, as she seems to realize just who she's teasing.
    She nods at the offer of a mimosa, as she continues nibbling at her eggs and fruit, her gaze periodically scanning the area around them.
    Some habits are hard to drop - even when at home, in Genosha.

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane grimaces just a little bit at Pietro's questioning. Her hand lifts to rub at her eyes breifly while muttering to herself, "I shouldn't have mentioned it." Even so she is smiling a bit. They were siblings after all, it was bound to happen. If he didn't then surely Clarice would have at some point. "Honestly I would rather not say, it's a bit embarassing all things given. It was just one of those flights of fancy that pass on occasion. Nothing serious."

Thank god her mimosa is getting refilled. A polite nod is cast to the waiter when it is and her hand lingers there rather than immediately sipping from it again even though she was sorely tempted. "Honestly it's best left forgotten."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
"Fair. I shall now have to start interrogating Wanda about her beau." He grins, shaking his head. "So long as no one was hurt, I shall leave well enough alone." Pietro half-teases. "And keep any romantic entanglements I run into secret..." A wink from the man, as he lifts his newly acquired mimosa to sip.

"People keep calling me Highness, and watching my moves. It's a bit maddening. I can only imagine how you feel, Lorna. If you ever need to get away, let me know."

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    Clarice is perfectly happy to leave Lorna to flirt with whoever she likes - as long as it isn't //Mr. Creed//. She still finds that to be... weird. Keeping her thoughts to herself, she stays silent for a few more bites, before looking to Pietro again.
    "Do you have any notion of who Wanda's dating?" she asks curiously. "I mean - not that it's any of my business, really, so long as he's behaving himself reaonably."
    Every relationship is bound to have its ups and downs, after all.

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane lifts the mimosa to sip from delicately even though it's clear she'd rather take a very unlady-like gulp. It's Pietro's own remark of having people watch her that earns a slight tip of her chin in his direction making it clear WHY she was behaving herself so very much. She knew they were watching. Though she was in her casual clothes, out in the city, not in an official capacity--She was still Queen here. Everyone's eyes were on her.

"I need to get away more than you could even imagine," she responds drolly. Still, there were other topics which causes her to grin. "Who *is* she seeing these days? I've not really had chance to catch up with her for quite awhile." There's a pause before she shares the only bit of gossip she's gotten lately, "I heard Illyana is dating Dr. Strange."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
There's a sip of his drink, the man hrming. "I cannot of course, be certain. But I did see her kiss the man on his cheek in my presence. She even returned the look I gave her, after I saw this happen." A smirk. "I just hope that this Bucky does not do anything to earn her ire. Or mine."

"However, if she is happy, then I am happy for her." A slight shrug from Pietro. "I could be misreading everything, however. My ... romantic radar is quite misaligned, I am sure." There's a blink. "It... would make sense? Illyana and Dr. Strange? They are both magicians, yes?"

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    Bucky, huh? Clarice takes silent note of the name, while remarking simply, "Of course, if she's happy then that's what matters." Her gaze shifts over some of those people who're watching their Queen enjoy her brunch, before returning her attention to Lorna once more.
    "I can always take you anywhere you'd like to go. I've been bringing Raven, Lydia, and the boys to different locations around the world. We've seen the Northern Lights, some truly spectacular waterfalls... And I plan on taking them to an incredible, volcanically active area where people harvest sulfur - and at night you can see the sulfur burning an eery blue color. It's really beautiful."

Lorna Dane has posed:
Bucky? The name sounded familiar but Lorna had never met the man herself. Something something worked with Captain America. It might spring to mind easier if she hadn't already had a mimosa to help relax her. "Ah, I believe she's been seeing him for awhile then. I vaguely recall that now that it's brought up. And yes, of course, so long as she's happy. That is the point of such things after all." Grinning in amusement, she plucks up a bit of bacon that had been with the aspargus she'd also eaten.

"They're sorcerers, yes, and Illyana is a Queen in her own right of another plane. Limbo I believe. I'm sure they make a good pair although Piotr didn't seem overly pleased about it. Then again, she is his little sister. I doubt he'd fully approve of anyone for her."

Clarice's mention of such places earns another smile, and she pops the remnant of bacon in her mouth to polish it off. "Mm. That does sound lovely. But to quote your dear Mr. Creed, if I don't get to punch the shit out of something soon I'm going to riot."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
A slight grumble from Pietro. "Clearly, I am the last to know." He sticks his tongue out at Lorna. So refined. "And I can empathize with Piotr." He comments, sipping more of his mimosa. "Yes, the point is happiness. But I am a protective older brother, so I have my own duties to tend to in that regard." A slight chuckle.

A quirk of his brow. "If you go looking for a fight, you will always find it Lorna. Just... wait. They happen organically. Angels, alien invasions - our world is rife with trouble needing corrected."

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "I have the same problem, at times," Clarice agrees. "But there are always fights worth making. I could see if I could find another group of hostages - and we could go beat the shit out of their captors." Beat the shit, viciously slaughter- is there really a difference? "There are a lot of really nasty criminal and terrorist organizations out there, after all."

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane smiles a bit stiffly with her gaze sliding over toward Clarice, eyebrows lifted. "I do seem to recall attempting to help in such fights only to be told I was too important to involve myself right before being teleported away to safety." The mimosa is sipped with a coy batting of her eyes at Clarice. Oh, yes, she was still a bit surly over that. Not as much as before but enough that she would tease the woman.

"Perhaps I should just visit the school and practice a bit to blow off some steam." She chuckles some, glancing over to Pietro once more. "Oh? Would that you were around when I was foolishly engaged to Alex. That would have saved SO much time."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
His own brow arches as well, looking over to Clarice. He doesn't have to add anything to that, Lorna's words have weight. Another sip from his mimosa. Sip. Sip. Sip.

"Perhaps you can speak with Charles and the powers that be there, to get a Danger Room for the palace?" Pietro wonders. "As for my presence..." The man starts, looking a bit irked at that. "I have been trying to relearn who I am, and my expectations for the world. Self-evaluation and reflection." He explains. "Please forgive me being out of the picture."

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    Clarice lets out a frustrated sound. "I was worried about an //orbital bombardment,//" Clarice points out very flatly. "I trust you to handle yourself in a fight. But there's nothing you or I could do to keep you safe if the Shi'ar had opened fire on the school. And it's my job to keep you safe," she points out flatly. "I'll never compromise that, and you can get pissed with me over it if you want, but that's how it is."
    She almost lost the entirely Royal Family once because of Magneto's orders. That was never happening again.
    She frowns down at her plate for a moment, then pushes it away with a sigh, and leans back into her seat, mimosa in hand.

Lorna Dane has posed:
"It's alright, Pietro. We all have those times when we need to find ourselves. I believe I might need a break of that sort soon myself, but the time has never quite been right." Lorna could understand it rather well after all. She does pause though, glancing aside to the melodramatics that Clarice had begun putting on with a high level of amusement.

It wasn't a queenly gesture but she reaches out to muss Clarice's hair. Something she would rarely if ever attempt on Pietro so poor Clarice becomes her target. "I know. Still, imagine how frustrated you would be if I ordered you to never fight again. I was an X-Man before I was a Queen."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
"We all come with pride, rightly so, in our skills." Pietro comments, smirking at the sign of affection from Lorna to Clarice. "And thank you for understanding. I am hoping, hoping that you can find a moment of peace to have a break, Lorna." He murmurs. "I think though, you've went from one ridiculously busy lifestyle to another." A smirk.

"So." He glances around. "How can I be of more assitance in the family?"

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "I haven't ordered you never to fight again," Clarice points out flatly, as she tilts her head away from Lorna's touch. "I made a single, specific judgement call. That the risk of orbital bombardment was too high. I'd prefer if you had me along when you went into fights, so I could back you up, or get you to medical care if it was ever needed. But that's up to you," she points out simply.
    That said, she takes a drink of her mimosa - clearly wishing it was a little stronger than it is.

Lorna Dane has posed:
Lorna Dane sighs softly. "It was just a remark meant to show you how frustrating it can be. I know it was a judgement call." Lightly shaking her head she opts to drop the topic for now in favor of considering what Pietro asks. "You know, I'm not certain. Father has been..." Her lips purse together at this. "Distracted as of late. So I can't say there. Here, though?" She looks around thoughtfully trying to think of options.

"Honestly showing up at some charity events or the like may help. It would be good to have an occasional presence to help support Genosha. Even if it's not for the full event," she adds quickly. "I know you get bored easily. As do I, but I'm used to dealing with that."

Pietro Maximoff has posed:
The eldest Maximoff nods. "I can be here for things, yes. Charity and whatever else is needed, Lorna. It's either that or do many laps around the Avengers compound in patrols." A chuckle. "I can suffer boredom, to better a nation." His mimosa is done.

No comment regarding his father. Nope.

He does look to Clarice and offers a slight smile. "I do appreciate the lengths you go to, to protect my family."

Clarice Ferguson has posed:
    "I know it's frustrating," Clarice answers simply. "I mean, I have my own- ...frustrations." Her jaw tightens for a moment, but she offers no explination for whatever was lurking in her mind. After another sip of mimosa, she nods to Pietro and adds, "It's important to me - for many reasons. Not that anyone in your family really needs all that much protecting."