Beauty in the Bones: Season 1

Episode 33: Playground of the Faceless

Mr. Gable's limousine drifted to the curb before Knights Hall a few minutes late. Engine humming, fragments of light trickled along its chromed detailing and sleek platinum contours. Its body was of the older box-like style, contrasting its rounded headlamps, streamlined lev generators, and tinted oval windows. The quantum hover field beneath it shimmered against the icy pavement. Doors clicked open, and the chauffeur ushered us inside.

"It's about time," Reuben said, snowflakes dotting his woolen cloak.

I shivered, grateful for the warmth as we settled into the smooth leather seat. Jazz music encircled us like lover's arms, trumpet and breathy female vocals swirling from large speakers on all sides. A pocket well glistened with ice, bottles of imported champagne chilling within.

Mr. Lawrence Gable held a flute of sparkling Brut in one hand, the skull ring on his little finger agape in silvered glee. A gleaming display visor shielded his eyes from view, his grin indicating amusement at whatever he browsed.

"Of course, of course, Mr. Browning," he said, swiping the fingers of his free hand through the air in navigation. "I wouldn't have it any other way. Please inform all Seekers there's to be a little surprise involved after the performance. Invite only. You know the routine. I must be off, I've just picked up my son and his friend. Yes, it's Senever. Yes, he's the newest seer in the Circles. Certainly, good man. Until then, keep the doors open. Cheers."

Reuben set his shield and spear aside, and took off his helmet. "This ought to best the Chamberlayne rub," he said.

Mr. Gable folded his display visor seamlessly beneath the brim of his fedora, a blend of Net access and fashion. "You know it'll best every shindig this side of Lake Michigattan, my boy." He slapped Reuben on the shoulder, then looked at me, his thick auburn brows lifting. "And here's the star everyone's asking about. It's splendid to have you along, Silas."

I returned his smile and his vigorous handshake. "Thank you for inviting me, sir."

His pewter gray eyes wrinkled to crescents, easing the squared angles of his face. "Certainly, young man. I've...wanted to speak with you privately for a good while."

I pushed my hood and mask back. "Of course. You have my undivided attention."

With a deep sigh, he set his champagne glass into the holder at his side. "Tonight's event has two fronts, as I'm sure you've guessed. There's the surface party, for the press and the public. Behind the curtain, if you will, we'll be attending a private gathering of The Order. Will this be your first time among the Circles on the homeworld?"

"Yes, sir."

Reuben and his father exchanged a peculiar glance.

"Well, then. You'll discover the differences soon enough." Mr. Gable leaned closer, resting an arm across the back of the seat. "I know what those fiends did to your great-grandfather. I wasn't there, but certain careless individuals failed to cover their deed. Let's just say I found out the hard way." He sipped his champagne, a slight tremble in his fingers. "Kraelis Jaster was like a father to me. He taught me everything I know about the Old Ways, and protected my family during a difficult time. I wish to see the truth restored, as it was when Kraelis defected from Pruessia and founded The Order. You and your mother can count me as an ally."

"And me," Reuben said, a smirk lifting the corner of his lips.

I hesitated to answer, but nodded. "I only know my mother plans to confront Lady Selketh's authority and restore the Old Ways. I assume you're involved with her little vendetta."

"I certainly am." A slanting glow of streetlights edged his blunt profile in pale blue and white. "Verthandis prepares to strike, building our network of support across the worlds. Until she gives the signal, we wait. It's especially important to remain silent tonight. Our enemies lurk everywhere among the Amerixcan Circles. Keep pretending you're just a new seer and Seeker, unaware of the corrupt leaders in the Inner Quorum. You'll do fine."