6431/Charity Casino Night

From United Heroes MUSH
Jump to navigation Jump to search
The printable version is no longer supported and may have rendering errors. Please update your browser bookmarks and please use the default browser print function instead.
Charity Casino Night
Date of Scene: 09 February 2019
Location: A New York City casino
Synopsis: Charity event for JDF. Three Avengers mingle, and Catwoman steals some jewels
Cast of Characters: Black Panther, Wasp (van Dyne), Catwoman, Spider-Woman (Drew)




Black Panther has posed:
Roxxon Corporation is trying to improve their public image again. In this case by holding a big charity event to raise money for juvenile diabetes. Invitations made their way to Janet van Dyne and to T'Challa individually, though the Avengers and several other high profile organizations were also asked if they would attend. At a thousand dollars a person, it stands to make a fair amount of money, and having a few heroes in attendance never hurts. Whether in costume, or in the case of some heroic socialites, wearing the kind of attire that will make sure the newspapers work in pictures on the front of a section.

T'Challa is wearing Wakandan formal attire tonight. Dark pants and long sleeve shirt, with a sleeveless coat with decorative work adorning it in vertical panels. He will have asked Janet if she would do the honor of accompanying him tonight, if she did not already have someone lined up to escort her.

The event is being held at a casino that has closed down their normal gaming for the night, all of the tables exclusively open to the attendees. Some chips are provided with the donation to charity, with more available for additional donations should those run out. It is black tie, and the celebrities and highest social circles are turning out tonight!

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
Janet knows well the value of star appeal. Her dress is, naturally, a vanDyne, and the cameras explode in flashes of light the second she and T'challa exit the limosine. The dress itself is multiple layers of black sheer, giving it the effect of floating as she walks down the red carpet. Grey lace wraps around her throat and dives down her spine and sternum to join a bodice element, which is adorned with gold panels reminiscent of her costumed alter-ego. The modifierd halter top and side-slit panels leave her arms and legs bare while not quite rising to the level of immodesty, and diamonds glitter at her ears and left wrist.

If T'challa hopes for a quick entry to the charity event, he picked the wrong companion. Janet stops frequently for people to snap her image, posing with a reflexive modelling posture so the lighting and angles are *just* right. More than once she borrows T'challa as a prop to balance against, willingly or not! After she makes her one-woman fashion down float down the walkway, her fingers wrap around his elbow for balance. They get inside and she pats T'challa's forearm with her free hand.

"See, wasn't that *fun*?" she presses him-- no doubt against earlier discussions about the definition of 'fun' for the monarch of Wakanda. Her invitation is presented to the ushers and they're waving inside. "I love doing the red carpet thing. The photographers, the attention, the fans... it's the best. Ooh! The bar is open." She tugs on T'challa's arm with more social pressure than physical pressure, trying to steer the ship that direction.

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa seemed to well expect the red carpet treatment that Janet received, as well as the natural joy and exuberance that she had the for the moment. The royal was more than willing to be there to enhance Janet's luster before the cameras, ready to offer his arm when she reached for it, or to fade to the side when it came time for those perfect solo shots that fashionistas will be blogging about for days to come.

T'Challa's arm is there for her as they move inside the casino. The pair head towards the open bar and T'Challa leans just a bit closer to her to be easily heard over the music that is being played, and the sound of the machines and live games of chance being played by the guests. The shindig has an upbeat air, the drinks flowing to encourage more donations. "I just realized. I have no idea what your favorite cocktails are," T'Challa says, and sounding slightly scandalized he should not have that knowledge on hand for a woman he is escorting to such a party.

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"My go-to is rum," Janet tells T'challa. She finds a barstool and clambers onto it as gracefully as she's able, crossing her legs at the knee and sitting sideways so she can speak to him more politely. "*sweet* cocktails, like daiquiris and rum mules. I can't do scotch, though," she says, making a face. "*some* whiskeys are okay but I had a bad experience in prep school with a bottle of Johnny Walker during a game of Spin the Bottle, and ... yeah, no scotch."

She flags down the bartender to get his attention. He's one of the few not wearing a coat and tails, instead wearing a vest, bowtie, and sleeve garters. "What can I get you?" the bartender inquires. He slings a clean white cloth over his left shoulder. Janet smiles politely and then turns to give T'challa a look of patient expectation.

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther's hand is there at Janet's side to assist her in getting settled on the stool with the maximum of grace. After he leans against the bar at her side while she shares the tale of her drinking experience. "Tony has a fine bourbon in the den. I discovered it the other night, with Nuala Duvall. I did not try his rum. But I noticed the bottle. We will have to put his taste in that particular spirit to the test sometime," T'Chall replies.

As the bartender comes to attend to them, T'Challa motions to Janet and tells the man, "The lady and myself will start with hot buttered rums to take away the chill". The New York winter in February wasn't going to relent for the charitable gathering, and they did spend a bit of time on the red carpet getting from the car to the door, even if there was a heated section nearer to the building.

T'Challa turns back as the man moves off to make their drinks. "You really are a vision tonight, Janet. I appreciate your company tonight. Watching you move in these circles is a rare treat for me. Like watching a panther within the jungle. You are always in your element in a place like this."

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
Janet beams at T'challa's praise. She takes it in stride, of course, because.. well, he's right. Naturally. "Tony's taste in things seems to veer towards 'expensive'. I'm pretty sure most of his art collection was bought because someone said 'it's overpriced'. So it's probably really *expensive* bourbon, yeah, but I don't know if I'd automatically say it's, like, y'know, a careful metric of personal taste?"

She seems to approve of T'challa's choice of drinks. "Do you really like this old thing? I threw it together at the last minute," she remarks, examining her outfit with a critical expression. "It's really not my best stitchwork and I wish I'd gone with a lighter thread and a fifth layer. And I should have brought a shawl. But then, I'm dealing with a coat check, and I have to *carry* it everywhere if I don't check it, and they really look good on the carpet as an accesssory but they're soooo easy to lose." Her drink arrives and she takes it carefully in both hands to sip, using the straw so she doesn't smudge her immaculately applied lipstick. "So how's things going with Jessica?" she inquires conversationally. "Big plans going forward?"

Black Panther has posed:
"Though if there is one area above others? Where I had to guess Tony might have such expertise?" T'Challa replies. "It would probably be with his beverages." As the drinks arrive, T'Challa slides some money into a tip jar, making sure the staff are well taken care of for the event.

"I saw more than one envious expression as we entered," the Wakandan man intones quietly in his smooth, African accent. "The blonde movie starlet in particular. Looked dissastified with her dress after glimpsing yours. Her envy was so strong it made my nose itch," T'Challa says with a soft chuckle.

"Ah, Jessica," T'Challa says, accompany the name with a soft sigh. "I do not know, Janet. She enjoys spending time together. Talking. Training. Eating. Relaxing. But the smallest romantic gesture?" A wistful sigh is given and the man has a troubled look. "I feel like I am making her... confront things she does not want to. Any time I make the smallest expression of my feelings. And I do mean, the very smallest."

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"That's Melissa Rivers," Janet says. She smirks, a smug expression. "She's not half as pretty as she thinks she is, and she's turned into a real bitch since she got that Netflix series. But she has terrible fashion sense-- overruled the producers when one of my costumers went down to consult on the show, and went with this hack 'artiste' out of Los Angeles who drapes like a brain-damaged orangutang. I mean, did you *see* that dress she's wearing? I wouldn't be caught dead in an Alexander Moschino."

She bites the straw and takes a careful sip. T'challa's given a critical look. "Look, yeah, Jessica's hot. She's also really *fragile*," Janet tells T'challa. "Maybe you're going about this the wrong way. You're trying to, like, jump right into being her boyfriend. The whole candies and chocolates thing. Yeah, that'd work on me or Jen, sure, maybe Carol. Though Carol would probably want like, an arm wrestling contest." She furrows her brow, thinking about that.

"Uh, anyway," she amends, jarred back into focus. "Maybe what she's really looking for is a *friend*?" she suggests. "Someone who accepts her and cares about her, without like, all the pressure of hooking up."

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa leans back against the bar, sipping his drink while he listens to Janet. "Oh no. Do not misunderstand. You are exactly right I think. On what she is not scared to accept into her life," T'Challa says. "I have barely so much as touched her hand though. And that alone was enough to make her tense. The same with expressing interest in things that mean a lot to her,"

He sighs and looks down at his drink. "But what you say is still, excellent advice. Worth considering. I may just need to put my feelings completely aside. Try to forget about them," he says, staring down into his drink. It doesn't look like something that T'Challa feels will be easy.

"I hope that if you have made any forays of your own into the realm of companionship, that they have gone better," T'Challa tells her. "I cannot imagine the man that would be foolish enough to allow otherwise."

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"Oh, my god, you sound like a fifteen year old girl," Janet says, with an eloquent eye roll. "You've got a wicked crush on Jess. Everyone does. *I* do. She's gorgeous and weird and sweet and that's like, a /lot/ of temptation, 'cause everyone wants to bring Laney Boggs to prom and rub it in that bitch Taylor's face."

"But I mean, y'know, she's maybe just not *ready* for a crush. Or a relationship. She wants to eat popcorn and be more like, uh, what's her name from Breakfast Club. Not Molly Ringwald. The other one. The goth."

"Look, like, you can't get wrapped up about that kind of thing. Dating's a selection process," Janet tells T'challa. "You might not be the boyfriend she wants, but you might be the *friend* she wants," she points out. "She keeps hanging out with you, so there's obviously something there. Better than falling for a gay monk," she says under her breath, and scowls into her toddy before taking a looooong gulp of it.

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther reaches over to rest a hand lightly on Janet's back. "You should probably have your own advice column," he tells her. "Alright. I will stop being a fifteen year old girl," he says, offering a little toast towards Janet with his drink. "Maybe the opposite is the good advice for you? Maybe a more direct approach? Direct talk?" T'Challa motions towards her hands. "Maybe a few stings to make an impression too?" he adds with a soft grin.

"I met this Wade the other day. Captain Rogers and I were at a drinking establishment. Discussing an encounter I had with Spider-Man. Only to find he was there as well," T'Challa recounts. "Some local men became overly aggressive though and our best efforts to quell them were not enough. I was pleased Wade heeded the call to not use his weaponry," T'Challa says.

Especially the grenades.

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"See, like... I was thinking, I should be more aggressive," Janet agrees. "You know, flirty talk, cute outfits, answered my door in my cutest nightgown. Nothing. It's like talking to a brick wall," she says. "Hell I thought he was gay-- I mean, the way he gushes about Bucky, and that faux-fighting thing he does with Wade. But a guy like Steve? Letting a guy like Wade show up unannounced and use his toothbrush? C'mon, you can't sit there and tell me that's just 'two friends'," she says scornfully, hooking free fingers in the air in quotes.

"But holy crap, T'challa, Steve can be such a dead fish. Some of my *best* moves and he doesn't even blink. I'm starting to think he's like, totally asexual or something. Right? Does he ever talk about me during your little boys clubs meetings?" she presses, sitting upright against a lazy slouch. She tilts her head up at T'challa. "You know, 'gosh Janet looks pretty', 'hey is she up to anything', that kind of thing?" she asks, hopefully.

Black Panther has posed:
There is a loud cheer that goes up from a roulette table, and if it draws a brief glance from T'Challa, it is Janet that still has his attention. "We have not had much time for discussions, in truth," T'Challa says. "There has always been something at hand. Or an interruption such as the scuffle in the bar."

T'Challa turns to the bartender as he passes by. "One pina colada, and one rum sour cable car," he orders before turning back to Janet. "Should I have the opportunity though, I will see what I can find out for you," he assures her. "It is too bad that he is not here. I cannot imagine he would find you anything but irresistible tonight. If you would like, when we tire of the event we could find a night club to your liking."

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"Aww, you're sweet," Janet says wryly, and gives T'challa's arm a grateful squeeze. "But it's ok. I know I look good, and maybe I need to take my own advice and just let Steve be," she concedes, with a melodramatic sigh. "He's so sweet, it's like a little lost puppy. You know you shouldn't play with it and he belongs to someone else, but you just can't *help* yourself."

She smiles and stirs her drink, draining the last of it before the pina colada arrives. She reaches for it and pulls it closer to her seat, taking it as a given that T'challa's doing the ordering and tipping. "I'm not sure you want to go to the kind of night clubs I hang out at," she adds, a beat later. "We're not talking like business-casual, after-work cocktail lounges. Nightclubs are for getting wrecked and getting crazy, in that order. If I take you to The Red Circle, you're going to end up doing blow in the bathroom with all the Eurotrash princesses sleepwalking through college at Yale. Not great optics for you."

Black Panther has posed:
"I think I know exactly what you mean," T'Challa tells Janet. "I would not give up hope. But perhaps, like my situation? It is better to not focus on it. And let it happen, if it happens." The African man gives a warm laugh. "This is what a wise king does. Find the words of someone wiser," he says, motioning towards Janet, "And then repeat them to others like they were his own."

T'Challa takes a sip of his new drink. "Well, yes. That kind of club it would be best for me to avoid. I am trying to be very careful of what I am doing while away from Wakanda. I would like to see more willingness to use what we have to help others in the world. But not all of my people wish to see our isolationist ways end. I do not wish to give them any ammunition. To point at my conduct and be able to claim corruptive influences."

T'Challa pats Janet's arm. "And I am so going to pay for calling you a corruptive influence now, am I not?" he says in a voice full of levity.

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"Oh, I'm totally a corrupting influence," Janet says, cheerily. "I'm totally going clubbing later this week with some girlfriends. I just can't help that none of the Avengers are up to partying with us. I mean, y'know, emotionally," she amends. "Physically, I don't think there's enough drugs and booze in the world to actually get anyone except me and Tony buzzed," she says, with a snicker. "You can Cap have that super-metabolism, Carol's a stuffy Air Force girl at heart, and Jen and Thor would need like some crazy outer space booze. And they'd drink it all and bogart everyone's fun," she points out.

Black Panther has posed:
The casino's regular operations are shut down to host the big charity shindig. Roxxon clearly has their PR interests at stake given how many logos they have splashed around the event, which is a fundraiser for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.

Janet already made a splash on the red carpet, with at least one TV starlet reacting with such envy that photos capturing an envious look are already going up on social media. T'Challa is escorting the fashion diva tonight, the two over at the open bar, Janet on a stool and T'Challa standing to lean against the bar beside her.

T'Challa laughs warmly and says, "You have a good point. It has been some time indeed. Since alcohol has been more than something to enjoy for the taste. Well, I am glad that you have your other friends. For the club scene. I will stick to the relative safety of going after the Serpent Society," T'Challa says in a tone of warm teasing.

Catwoman has posed:
Selina Kyle had been sent an invite, but when the people started arriving she was nowhere to be found. Juvenile diabetes was a nice focus for charitable works, but she knew it was all a way for Roxxon to try to clean up its image. She also knew better than to take it at face value as sincere when the corporation probably wasn't actually doing anything to improve behind the scenes.

Still, attending might give her a chance to glean some information that she could turn to her advantage down the line, and it would be another chance for her to play socialite and be seen. She might even meet someone interesting. So, once the people waiting around to catch a glimpse of someone famous died down, she made her move, slipping in quietly through a side door rather than using the main entrance. She was familiar with the casino, having gambled there before, even getting to know a couple of the employees. It never hurts to have someone on the inside, even if it's only to be a little sneaky at an event. Besides, the dirt rags might talk about how nobody realized Selina Kyle was there...until she was!

The woman is dressed similarly to how she was at the art exhibit a few days ago, though this time her dress covers more of the back than before, it's cut a little more suggestively up one side and down the front, and it's a red dress instead, low-heeled silver pumps with a gold necklace and earrings to match. The necklace itself bears a stylish pendant of a cat in gold, inlaid with a diamond 'collar' and tail. She moves past the blackjack and roulette tables, green eyes roaming the floor.

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"Oh, uh, also, if anyone invites you to a place called the Hellfire Club, maaaaybe stay away," Janet advises T'challa. "It's like this ultra swanky fetish club for East Coast billionaires, and they're always inviting heads of state to come check it out. Thousand bucks that they have cameras inside the building and they're blackmailing world leaders who show up there for drinks and stay for the strippers."

"I mena, whatever, I'm not gonna kinkshame if that's your thing, just... y'know, a heads up," she says, rolling a bare shoulder in a tiny and apologetic little shrug.

She bites the straw of her pina colada and takes a few careful sips, ever-mindful of her makeup, and frowns at someone in the crowd. "Hey, is that-- it is! She made it! Selina! SELINA!" Janet tries to stand and wave, but she can't exactly balance her stilettos on the stool rungs. So she picks up T'challa's arm and tries to get him to wave at the socialite for her. "That's my friend Selina, you've got to meet her, she's *very* suave," Janet tells T'challa.

Black Panther has posed:
Gets a curious look at the mention of this Hellfire Club. "Yes, that is exactly the kind of place I would stay away from," T'Challa confirms. The well-groomed African man's soft chuckle and smile at the mention of kinkshaming is all the information one needs to know that such would definitely not be his thing.

T'Challa takes a sip of his cocktail, which as he mentioned to Janet before is more about taste than the alcohol for him. The reaction as Janet sees her friend draws T'Challa's attention to look through the crowd to try to spot who she is referring to. He does lift his hand to help draw Selina's attention, hand lifted in a motionless wave. "I am sure she will be charming," T'Challa says, expressing his trust in Janet's judgment.

Catwoman has posed:
Selina Kyle also carries with her a gold purse along with a bucket of chips she obtained on the way in, courtesy of her 'mole.' While the bar area was not the destination she had in mind yet, multiple pairs of eyes find her after starting on Janet, thanks to the calling of her name. An initial hint of a frown is turned around more into a faked smile, more for those suddenly gawking at her as she lets just enough of a sway in her hips show during her approach.

"Alert the whole place next time, girl," Selina mock-chides, shaking a finger at Janet. "So much for making a subtle entrance with you around, mmmm?" T'Challa is given a brief but complete look, head to toe, before she turns her attention back to Janet. "I was going to text you to see if we were still on for tomorrow, but I can just ask you face to face now. And who is this with you?" She may already know from the news and a previous conversation, but it never hurts to play up formalities.

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"Hey, you're at a charity event," Janet tells Selina. "The whole *point* is to be seen." She's definitely not getting down off the barstool she's occupied, because A) it's very high up and B) she has her dress sitting *just so* and it takes forever to get that photo-ready posture and hold it. But she holds her hands out to Selina and offers an air-kiss to the cheek when the socialite draws near. "Come join us!"

"Selina, this is T'challa, King of Wakanda," she says, with an urbane easy. "T'challa, this is my friend Selina Kyle, from Gotham. She's triff, absolutely *killer* fashion sense and she's big into charity work. We met at the Met fundraiser gala, she saved me from some fuddy old business guys," she explains. "Killer fashion sense, too. What're you doing here?" she inquires of Selina. "Here to thumb your nose at Roxxon, or for the kids with diabetes, or whatever it is?"

Black Panther has posed:
The charity event is sponsored by Roxxon Energy Company. Their logo splashed over as many locations as they could manage. All the better to take people's minds off that oil spill off the Nigerian coast. But the proceeds are going to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, so it is a good cause. The Avengers as well as several other high profile teams received invites.

T'Challa lets Janet do the introductions. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Kyle," the African man will say. If her hand is offered he will take it in both of his, one above and one below, less shake but more two-handed greeting before letting her hand go.

"Please, join us," T'Challa says, sliding a stool over so Selina can sit near to Janet. If Selina is lacking a drink, T'Challa will ask, "Would you like a glass of wine, or maybe one of the pina coladas that Janet is having?" He has what looks like a sour rum cable car, himself.

Catwoman has posed:
"I like to be seen on my terms," Selina points out in a cheerful tone, regardless of how right Janet probably is. The miming of the kiss is returned before the more physical greeting with T'Challa follows. "It's not often I get the chance to meet royalty. Do you prefer 'Your Majesty,' 'King,' just 'T'Challa,' or something else? And, I like the way you take a woman's hand.

The seat is taken up and she settles her belongings nearby on the bar itself, safely within reach. "All of the above?" she replies to Janet. "Roxxon is pretty scummy, so I'm not buying their little PR stunt here, but at the same time if it helps some kids out it's not /all/ bad. It just doesn't erase the rest of it, you know?"

Lastly, a feline-like smile is sent toward T'Challa. "For me, I'm thinking just a glass of milk." She crosses her legs, making herself comfortable.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
SO. MANY. PEOPLE. And so many photographers. She never had this problem before, but since being seen publicly in the company of royalty, Jessica can't seem to get away from them. Navigating the bustling event, Jessica tries desperately to find someone she knows. Thank goodness for her height. The tassels of her dress swing and spin out as she searches the crowd. But at very least, the beautiful black and blue dress gifted to her can see daylight in another event. It's too dear and costly to sit in an armoir.

Finally, Jess spots the dignified figure of T'Challa, and ducks through the crowd, sometimes full-contact style, until she has reached him...and Janet! "Oh thank God! JANET, how do I make photographers go away?!"

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
Janet looks delighted to see Jessica, and blinks in surprise at the plaintive request. "The... there are photographers?" She looks around, marvelling. Janet literally didn't even notice the press walking around-- the ones with credentials to get inside are dressed quite discreetly after all, in proper attire.

"Oh, I can fix that," she assures Jessica, and beckons her friend over into the shelter that is Janet's unflappable social presence. She extracts a tiny gemstone from her bracelet and sets it on the bartop. It expands into, of all things, her *cell phone*, and Janet swipes her fingers back and forth across the screen. She hits 'send'. "Jess, come sit!" she invites, trying vainly to haul another stool over for Jessica to sit on. "This is my friend Selina Kyle. Selina, this is Jessica, she's *amazing*," Janet tells Selina with her usual effusive praise. She also latches her hands around Jessica's bicep to keep the other woman from running away, or possibly backflipping onto the ceiling.

Three photographers check their phones almost at once. Someone holding a very discreet compact camera trying to get candids checks hers a few seconds later. Two of the waitstaff run past with eager expressions on their face, heading to the back half of the casino-- and then security isn't far behind them. Janet follows their departure with a smug expression.

Black Panther has posed:
"Just T'Challa is fine in anything other than the most formal of settings," T'Challa says. He orders a milk for Selina and turns back from the bar. His head comes up, catching sight of someone hurrying over.

T'Challa takes a step forward towards Jessica, reaching out a hand towards her to welcome her over to them. "Let me get you a chair," he tells Jessica as Janet begins working magic that would make Scarlet Witch say, "Dayum!". With Selina on one side of Janet, he sets another chair on the other side. And a little further back towards the bar so it will be less out of the public eye. He'll offer a hand to help her get seated on the taller stool, the same as he did when Janet sat down. "This should be a quiet area," T'Challa tells Jessica, smiling to her softly. He checks on Janet and Selina visually then. T'Challa remains standing with the trio of women, but a bit in front of Jessica to increase that feeling for her of being separated from the people in the room.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"Thank you," Jess utters to T'Challa, watching as everyone rushes the back of the casino. "And thank YOU," she adds to Janet. "They're like bug--uh, flies. They swarm. They're...swarming...things." As Jess stumbles over her words, she flushes pink and sinks back next to T'Challa. "I'm just glad I found you guys."

At that, Jess offers an almost apologetic look to Selina, and smiles. "A pleasure to meet you. Anyone who's a friend of Janet's is good in my book."

Catwoman has posed:
"Just T'Challa it is, then." With that pendant Selina wears, the request for milk might be for fun or it might be that's just what she prefers. It /is/ healthier than liquor, right? Photographers have already taken note of her during her approach to the bar, so those pictures will be making their way to the celebrity-chaser sites soon enough.

Sipping from the glass, she silently watches Janet at work, raising a thin brow at the gem that becomes a phone, somehow, leaving her to murmur between sips, "Clever."

Jessica is given a polite nod, interrupted by the photographers on their way to another part of the casino all of a sudden, and it gives her a chance to watch the way he moves to bring Jessica into the mix and seemingly stand guard before her. "Good friend of yours, Just T'Challa?" She remarks to Jessica, "We only just met last weekend, but apparently I made an impression. It looks like you're in good company here..and, nice dress."

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"Twitter makes it easy to screw with photgraphers," Janet explains. "I just used a dummy account to let people know that I saw a couple celebs in the backroom hooking up with a couple of models and a local drug pusher." She watches all the tabloid scum heading to the back, some of them trying to outrun one another. "And then I told the casino that there's a bunch of blow for sale in the staff area. Should buy us a couple hours." She beams sunnily.

"Jessica's everyone's friend," Janet tells Selina. "She's just not used to the paparazzi." She wrinkles her nose at the milk. It's not even alcoholic! "I wasn't sure you were gonna make it," Janet chides Jessica. "You should have shown up earlier, I totally could have snuck you in lowkey. But I'm glad you're here now!" She taps her phone to shrink it again and latches it back into place on the bangle dangling from her left wrist. "That dress looks amazing, too," she adds. "I love the tassles, it's very stylish."

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther has a reassuring look for the young woman who doesn't care for crowds. The question from Selina draws a deep nod and a soft smile from T'Challa. "Indeed. I was interested in finding one of New York's better greasy cheeseburgers. And she took pity on me and found me a most delightful burger. And has since given me a number of experiencess. New York culinary moments I would not have had without her kind assistance," T'Challa says, turning back to smile to Jessica. "Yes, we would have entered with you," he agrees.

T'Challa smiles to Janet. "I continue to learn things on how to maneuver in American society. I will continue to keep my eye on you, Janet." He smiles to her and asks, "So you and Miss Kyle met at another function? And are you in fashion as well, Miss Kyle?"

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"Thank you sooo much," Jess gushes to Selina and Janet at their remarks on her dress. "But..I'm afraid I can't take credit for it. Not even a little." She looks down at the tassles, finding herself swishing them idly and nervously with one hand, and she stops that hand with her other. "It arrived as a gift a few nights ago, proving irrefutably that a man can have MUCH better taste in clothing than I do." She blushes a little, giving T'Challa a crooked little grin. "Or maybe I could have found something nice myself, if I had enough wild horses to drag me into a boutique ..."

Jess turns back to the others. "So has anyone had any luck at the tables, or has everyone been hiding back here at the bar?" She inquires, but inclines her head to the ladies at T'Challa's question as well, intrigued.

Catwoman has posed:
"More clever than I thought," Selina deadpans once Janet's shared her little trick. "That doesn't mean others won't come around, but for now? Perfect." At Janet's reaction to the milk, she holds the glass out and waggles it a couple times before having another sip. "Are you allergic to healthy things?" the woman in red wonders, a teasing tone present.

Selina is /not/ everyone's friend, contrary to what she's told of Jessica, but she can play up what she likes when it fits, and this gathering is as good a reason as any to be nice. "You just have to know how to deal with the paparazzi, but an escape route is never bad." She listens quietly and attentively to T'Challa's explanation of how he and Jessica met, returning only a small nod. "Good for the two of you, then. I do enjoy fashion, but I like to give to causes I support, especially if they have to do with big cats."

The look Jessica gives T'Challa is also filed away, then she downs the rest of her drink and sets the glass aside, nudging the basket of chips toward the newest arrival to the group she'd only just joined moments before. "I was thinking about it, but you can have mine. It might make you look like you've been on a winning streak in here, even if it's just for fun."

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"Yes," Janet tells Selina, seriously. "I eat healthy at home so that I don't *have* to eat healthy when I go out clubbing. If I want chicken fried waffles and pina coladas at one AM, I'm not sitting there counting calories at the bar. Like a neeeeeeerd," she says, baiting Selina with a teasing tone.

"And don't look at me to gamble," she adds. "Every time I go to Monaco I end up losing my shirt at the craps tables," Janet huffs. "Stupid dice, and stupid ... game where you've got to roll all the, uh, sevens, and stuff."

She pauses. "Hey, does anyone here know how to play Baccarat? That's the sexy one you always see in the movies, right?"

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther's lips draw into a bit of a lopsided smile, higher on one side. "I fear I would still be looking but for the guidance of a good friend," T'Challa replies, looking towards Janet. "Though I had no doubts which was the right one upon seeing it," he says as he turns his eyes back to Jessica. "It becomes you," he says quietly.

"We have only been here a short time ourselves, I think? Time passes quickly in pleasant company," T'Challa says in his Oxford-precise tones. He looks to the bartender and says, "Could we get a glass of iced tea please? Thank you."

As the man is getting that, T'Challa turns at the mention of Selina's chips. "I have played it before, though not something I have spent a great deal of time at," he admits. He looks back to Jessica. "Did you wish to give the tables a try?" he asks her, looking to all three ladies with the group invitation.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"I think you're thinking of Burt Bacharach," Jess offers brightly. "He's a composer. Not really sexy, though..." Jess pauses to graciously accept an iced tea ordered by T'Challa. She clearly is less knowledgeable of gambling than Janet, and that's apparently saying something. "I always liked the wheel of doom. What's that one called? The one with the marble. And it blows up if you lose?" Well it did blow up in that one spy movie, how's she supposed to know that isn't typical?

Catwoman has posed:
"As if I don't like something greasy and high in calories sometimes, myself," Selina scoffs, rolling her eyes back toward Janet before she shakes her head at the talk of playing the tables and all that. "You three go ahead if that's what you want to do. I was going to mingle with some people myself, and maybe I can catchup with you later." To T'Challa, she remarks, "I'll have to ask you for another glass of milk sometime." To Janet, she adds, "Tomorrow, darling." And, finally, to Jessica, she practically purrs. "Sounds like you caught yourself a winner. Don't let him go, if he's the one you want." That done, she pushes up from the stool, uncrossing her legs, first stretching them briefly before rising and fetching her purse. A wave of the fingers sees her off to go blend in with others in the crowd.

The truth of the matter? Selina had come here with an eye on a different prize. There were some unique gemstones on display in another area that she wanted, and Janet's little diversion may have bought her the purrfect opportunity to exploit. Stashed near the side entrance she took is a duffel bag with her costume in it, along with a few tools. It wouldn't do for Selina Kyle, Gotham City socialite, to be spotted in the middle of a theft, not that she hasn't taken advantage of a five finger discount before. But, with members of staff and security elsewhere, Catwoman can come out to play and hopefully be done and back in her dress before anyone else is the wiser. With the risk of being spotted, it's hard to pass up.

Janet, T'Challa, and Jessica may or may not even see Selina this particular evening, or if they do see the notorious cat burglar, they won't even know who it really was.

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"Thats' roulette, sweetie," Janet tells Jessica quietly. She smiles in a reassuring manner and pats the taller woman's arm. Then, Selina's making her farewells, and Janet offers hugs and kisses as the leggy brunette thief takes her leave of the group.

"Selina's a real peach. She's coming by later for a custom fitting. There are not a lot of people in this social circle who can rock the sleeveless look, so I was, like, 'you have GOT to model for me'," Janet confesses. "With those arms? She's got to be a tennis player or something, and I mean like, serious Wimbledon mateerial, not that 'oh I placed third at the country club tee hee let's go have drinks at the bar' tennis player," she clarifies.

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther bids goodbye to the departing Selina in polite T'Challa fashion. He looks back to Jessica and Janet at the mention of the custom fitting. "I had not noticed, but I imagine that you will be able to do extraordinary things then, Janet," he says.

"If you would like to give the roulette table a try, we can do so," T'Challa agrees, smiling softly to Jessica. "It can be an exciting game." He moves just enough she can see the tables, pointing over to indicate them to her. Letting Jessica decide if they look inviting or not.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
Jess gives a quizzical look to Selina as she departs. But she gives her a warm farewell, and watches her sashay through the crowd. "So, um...that wheel is kind of intimidating. What's the secret to keeping it from blowing up?" Jess asks warily as she watches the roulette table. "Have you guys ever played? Am I the only one here who's never gambled?" She frets at her lip thoughtfully, and turns back to Janet and T'Challa.

Wasp (van Dyne) has posed:
"I think I'm gonna pass," Janet says, wryly, and slips from her chair as carefully as she can. It's a long way down for her! "Honestly I'll probably call it a night as well," she admits to her friends, and reaches for a hand belonging to each of them to give an affectionate squeeze and beamingly sociable smile. "I'm sorry to be rude and ditch early, T'challa. Jessica, would you be a dear and be his date for the evening?" Janet asks of her friend. "I know, terribly rude of me," she says, with a melodramatic sigh. "But work calls."

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther nods his head to Jessica. "Yes. I have played. Many of the games in here. I do not go on many gambling junkets. But it is the kind of place that... well, charity events like this? A casino night is not uncommon." He pauses and chuckles. "It also seems like some like to make business deals in places like this. Though I never understood why?" he says, shaking his head.

T'Challa helps Janet down with an offered hand. He glances into the crowd, giving a little head nod and an African woman wearing a lovely dress moves over a little nearer. She'll make sure Janet makes it out safely to her car, but following at a discrete distance. Not that Wasp really needs the escort.

"Jessica, did you wish to give the table a try?" he asks of the roulette wheel. He seems happy to go and gamble, or stay there at the bar if she wishes.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"Aww...Stupid work," Jess replies, giving Janet's hand a squeeze. "Well, don't work too hard, okay? We'll have to get together again soon...I /do/ so need some new clothes. I can't wear this to EVERYTHING." She smiles as Janet makes her way out, then looks to T'Challa. "Um...maybe in a few. I need to watch this thing and figure out how it works, first," she replies, nodding toward the wheel of doom.

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther slides Janet's bar chair over nearer to Jessica's and takes a seat in it. "People place bets on the different numbers. If the ball ends up on that number, they win. If not, they lose their bet. SOme numbers are black, some are red. The 0 and 00 are green. You can also bet on which color the ball will end up on," T'Challa says.

He leans closer to Jessica, motioning to one of the bets. "See how that one bet is not on a single number, but on the lines that separate four numbers? He is placing a bet that the ball ends up on one of those four numbers. But he wins less money than if he'd just placed it all on a single number that won."

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
Jessica nods slowly as T'Challa explains the game, and she turns to him. "So you like games of chance? I sort of figure they're always rigged at casinos. Not at all chance, really. But you know what I mean, I guess..." She takes a sip of her iced tea. "I hope I didn't drive the ladies off, I wore something to cancel out...all /that/," she says softly, with a vague gesture toward herself. "I didn't mean to run off your fun." She looks back up at him apologetically. The roulette table now the last thing on her mind.

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther looks to the roulette table. "Most every game favors the house if you play it enough. Roulette is one of the worst in that. The odds are easy to figure out. They greatly favor the house. Gambling to make money is not a good proposition. Not unless you cheat. Or stick to games like poker. Skill can outplay the opponent to some degree, there."

T'Challa says, "I do not gamble much. I don't feel much thrill from it. And Jessica? I'm happy to see you. You look wonderful," he says. "If you enjoy the environment I am happy to stay. If you wish to go get a shake?" he asks, grinning. "I would be just as happy doing that."

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
Blushing, Jess replies with a quiet "Thank you. You look all dashing and debonair tonight, yourself." Then, she instinctively looks around for paparazzi and prying eyes. "Are you sure? Cause I could /really/ go for a chocolate shake and some fries right about now." Yes, those fries are SO going into that shake.

"But I don't want to steal the King from his social affairs, and be seen as the one who dragged him from a diplomatic engagement." She is fretting at her bottom lip again.

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther motions towards the event. "I have made my appearance. Had photos taken. Showed Wakanda cares. Made a donation. All of my responsibilities have been met. The rest of the night? I would like to spend in the company of my friend." he tells Jessica. He will offer her his arm. "If you get the chocolate... I will try... what are my choices this time?" T'Challa asks her of the shakes.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"Aaanything you want," Jess replies, taking T'Challa's arm and smiling brightly. "I get chocolate if there are going to be fries involved," she assures him with a nod. "But I know a little dairy shop where you can get just about any flavour you can imagine." Shepauses for a moment, looking up at him. "What's your favorite ice cream? I've never even asked!"

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa walks Jessica out, picking their way through the least crowded areas of the event. Luckily, as soon as Janet and T'Challa had entered, Janet wanted to go straight to the bar. So they really did not make it very far inside.

T'Challa stops to get Jessica's coat, putting it over her shoulders, and getting his as well, before walking her outside on his arm again. "That is a tough call. Mint chocolate chip most of the time. Sometimes I do not want the mint though and would just get normal chocolate chip. The cookie dough ice cream is quite good as well. Also? Hulka Hunka Burning Fudge. But do not tell Bruce that," he says with a soft laugh. "What about you?"

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"I rarely get the same flavor twice," Jess replies, slipping into her coat and taking T'Challa's arm again to hold him closer in the cold wind outside. "That may be surprising," she adds. "I LOVE chocolate chip cookie dough, and Amaretto Peach Charlotte, and Superman, and cappuccino chunky chocolate, and uh..." She sounds like she could probably list off every flavor in the shop....

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther walks with her along the street, content to brave the cool weather rather than take a vehicle. Jessica might notice a colored woman up ahead a half a block, and another tailing them a similar distance behind on the other side of the street. Or she might not. They are paying more attention to the surroundings than to she and T'challa directly.

"My sister? Vanilla. She does not even want to try the other flavors. Except with fruit. She will put sliced fruit on her vanilla." He sighs and shakes his head. "I told her it was proof that she was adopted."

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"Are you often under threat," Jessica asks, clinging to his warmth as she looks up at him. She seems not to have visibly noted the two women. But her peripheral vision has caught them many times in the past as they stay in proximity to the king.

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther shakes his head. "No, it is extremely rare. That they are needed for anything serious. They accompany me even in public in Wakanda. Sometimes I ask them to stay back. And sometimes they still follow. Just at a greater distance," he says, chuckling. "It is their duty. So I do not begrudge it of them. The times I really do need them to let me go? They know it."

T'Challa notes Jessica's pressing to his warmth, and while he wants to slip his arm about her, he doesn't. Fortunately the place that Jessica has chosen is just ahead. When they get there, T'Chall opens the door for her. "I think I will try something different. Do they have... cheesecake ice cream?"

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"Ohh, do they ever??" Jess gushes, as she lists off the ones she knows about. "Cheesecake, strawberry cheesecake, or raspberry, or pomegranate. Those are my faaavourite." Just like the others she listed as her favourite. "And you can get ANY of them as a shake, too!" She grins. "Sometimes I realize why I am socially awkward...like when I can list more ice creams that I know than people."

Black Panther has posed:
Black Panther gives a small shrug as if he doesn't seem to think this should be unusual. "I can think of numerous people that I do not care for. But how many ice creams can I truly say that of?" he suggests to her. He walks over with her to look at the flavors. "The raspberry cheesecake I think. Raspberry has always been a flavor I like. Though real raspberries get stuck in my teeth," he says, frowning slightly.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"Oh you'll like this, no seeds..." Jess is leaned up against the case with her fingertips pressed against the glass so that each breath momentarily steams up a little spot in front of her. "Uhh...a chocolate almond shake, and an order of fries," Jess replies when someone asks for her order. "And anything this man wants," she adds with a grin. "Treat him like he's a king!"

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa lets out a warm laugh, and Jessica earns one of those tilted smiles of his. He shines it over to her for a moment before turning to the display case. "The raspberry cheesecake in a shake. Please. And the whipped cream on top? Extra? Yes, thank you," he orders.

"Diabetes is not as big of an issue back home. But I am aware it is a growing problem here. Are there any causes like that which are most dear to your heart?" T'Challa asks Jessica while they wait for the shakes to be prepared.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
Jessica turns to look up into T'Challa's eyes, tilting her head. "I haven't been exposed much to the affects of it on families, but I do know it harms a great many people. Like heart disease, and so many others. So personally....I champion against poverty, and try to support supplies of clean drinking water to the /countless/ numbers of people who don't have it." Jess sighs briefly and shrugs. "And animal abuse. Because they can't fight back. They don't have a voice."

Black Panther has posed:
"You cut close to what is in my heart," T'Challa tells her. He leans back against the counter, back to the ice cream shakes being made, focused on Jessica. "There are so many in Africa who live hard lives. And do not need to. Other places as well. Like many, I look closest to home first, before looking elsewhere." T'Challa turns as they set the shakes and fries up on the counter. He picks them up, motioning for Jessica to lead the way to a seat.

"There are technologies that can help. We need to make them easier to use. Ways of finding ground water, and then getting to it, for instance," T'Challa says.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
Jess nods, leading them to a round corner booth, and removing her coat before sliding inside, placing her coat on the far side of her. "That's exactly true. But so many regimes will sabotage attempts to get to those water supplies, or purify what is there. They use people as pawns in a struggle they aren't even a party to. Those people struggle enough just to make it through each day. The last thing they need are military regimes that deprive them of the basic necessities for life." She sighs, as T'Challa sets down their shakes. "Sometimes it is so easy to forget how blessed we are to have been born into such opportunity and comfort."

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa says, "And from my standpoint, Americans even have disadvantages because of where they were born. The divisiveness here? I hate to see how the politics have split this nation." The African man sits beside Jessica, adding his straw to his shake. "Not that my country is of one mind. But there are not so many different groups to clash as happens here. But, yes, compared to other areas of the world, the United States? Very stable. And fortunate." T'Challa gazes at Jessica. "You have a big heart," he says softly before finally trying his shake. "Oh. Very good."

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
Jess nods thoughtfully at T'Challa's words, and sticks a straw in her shake as well. "No bigger than yours, T'Challa." Not that she needs a straw quite yet. That crinkle cut fry goes /straight/ into her shake, and is pulled out loaded with chocolate ice cream. Jess tilts her head back and lowers it into her mouth, chewing with a soft and musical "Mmmm..." accompanying her swaying little food dance. "That is SO good...Wanna try?" She asks, offering her fries and her shake. And a spoon, if he'd rather.

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa takes one of the fries, ready to experience yet another taste sensation thanks to Jessica. He dips the fry in her shake, rather than use the spoon, if she seems good with it. He eats it, eyes looking to the side as his brain focuses on his sense of taste. "It is pretty good. Though if it was... what do you call the tube made of wafer? Sometimes with filling in it? I think those, dipped in ice cream, would be amazing."

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"I thiiink the term for those is...a tube made of wafer. Sometimes with filling in it," Jess replies with a definitive nod, dunking another fry. "And I'm sure they would! I just...sort of like the salty with the sweet, maybe," she adds, winking and leaning to nudge him with her shoulder. "I'm sure it isn't for everybody." Then she pauses. "What was your favorite thing when you were growing up? Not just a food. But anything..."

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa picks up his cup. "My father's voice," he says without needing to think at all. He takes a long draw from his shake before setting it down. "He would tell us stories. And he had a way of making them come to life. It was not the voices that he did. For the different people. It was his normal voice. The one that narrated the tale. He had... a pleasing, deep voice. It was always very comforting to hear." T'Challa's eyes have that distant look as he is focused on his memories. He refocuses though, looking over to Jessica again. "What about you? What is your favorite thing?"

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
There is a moment, as Jessica smiles, listening to T'Challa tell of his father's voice, that she tries to remember her own father's voice. Or her mother's. But those memories have been washed away. She focuses for a moment on the question, as if she has never once considered it for herself. "I think...a doll I had. She was okd, something that was handed down to me. She was made of cloth. A calico dress like you might imagine old pioneers wore. And her face was blank. No features, just a jute cloth face. But it meant I could imagine she looked like anyone in the world. Happy, or sad, or fierce. I liked to imagine she was fierce. Determined. To make her way and find her place. Because if you can be anything in the world, who would choose sad? And happiness is a fleeting thing. But determined. Well, that's a force to reckon with, and it can find all the smiles in the world, if it tries hard enough."

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa leans forward towards Jessica as he listens, arms resting on the table. He watches her face as she tells him about the doll. Watching her eyes and the way her cheeks look when she smiles. He doesn't share with her what he's thinking, but her sharing this story with him obviously means something to him. "I don't imagine you still have it anymore? Even if not, the memory is a powerful one, I imagine," he asks softly.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"It's powerful," Jess agrees. "But no, I don't have it anymore. I had to leave it behind. But I'd like to think she's still there to give some other little girl hope, and determination." Jess smiles, cheeks flushed with enjoyment and the cold. She looks out the window to see a couple of women standing out there, looking for all the world like they're looking for their keys or walking to their car at any given time. "Ask them inside? Where it's warm. I want to buy them ice cream, or cocoa. With a tube that's made of wafer. Sometimes with filling."

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa nods his head. "Of course," he tells her. "Your perfume... yes," he says, able to smell it of course. He rises and heads over to the doorway, saying something in Wakandan. The two women come inside. "Coffee would be appreciated," T'Challa says as they come over with him. "This is Ayo. And N'Dega," he says. "This is Jessica Drew," he tells them. The two women say hello, giving Jessica smiles. T'Challa lets Jessica make her offer to them. They'll accept coffee after a look to T'Challa.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
Jessica let's the women take a seat after offering them their pick of anything on the menu. She slips up to the counter and purchases two cups of coffee, returning to the table where the women are seated, and she slides a cup in front of each. "It's too cold to be outside tonight," she says to the women, giving a respectful little bow of her head. "I'm just glad to see you in where it's warm."

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa looks over to the two women and holds up his hands as if to indicate he has nothing to do with it. They look at each other and then to Jessica. "Thank you. That is very considerate of you," they tell Jessica.

T'Challa gives a soft chuckle. "I see. If I ask you in... I am implying you are too weak to brave the cold? But if Jessica invites you in, it is being considerate? Yes?"

The two members of the Dora Milaje look at each other as if not having thought if that way. Then nod. "Yes, that about sums it up," they agree with grins. T'Challa laughs softly and turns to smile at Jessica. "They think I do not know, it is just to keep me humble. And I appreciate it."

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
Jessica grins and slides back into the seat next to T'Challa. "Next thing you know, I'll be teaching them to dip fries in their shakes..."

Black Panther has posed:
Ayo gives a soft laugh and smiles to Jessica as she waggles a finger. "Let us not talk crazy now," she says, her accent a bit thicker than T'Challa's. One can notice the difference made by T'Challa's time in college in England. "It is good knowing he is with you in the city. We have seen tape of your fighting. You will be handy to have around if he is attacked," N'Dega says.

T'Challa smiles over to Jessica. There's a bit of pride in his eyes to hear the two women speak this way of Jessica.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"From what I have seen, you two are never too far away, either. I am certain you wouldn't be there if you weren't the best of the best," Jessica replies to Ayo with a smile. "But...In all honesty I'm glad when he's with me, too..."

Black Panther has posed:
"Okoye is the best," Ayo says. "But thank you, Jessica," she says, smiling over to the American woman. T'Challa gives a small nod. "Okoye is a very formidable warrior," he confirms. "She was the one, when we saw Dr. Strange, that came across the street because of the... horse-woman." He shakes his head. That whole affair, just so odd. T'challa sips his shake and looks over to Jessica as she says the last part. It surprises him a little bit. Surprises him, but makes him smile. "Thank you, Jessica," he tells her softly, his warm, slightly crooked smile growing as he looks down to his shake.

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
"Well, then that's perfect. He is protected from all dangers, up to and including horse women." JD gives a nod and goes back to her shake, now thin enough to drink through a straw. "That was a VERY strange day, though. Everything seemed tilted, off kelter. I never know how to respond to that sort of thing. Plus the fact that Dr. Strange didn't know who I was, when we had worked together extensively after...after an attack left my mind broken. He helped me."

Black Panther has posed:
T'Challa considers that. "Perhaps he did not wish to risk your identity in front of others? Who might take notice?" T'Challa offers. "Or, maybe something happened to him?" He takes another sip of his shake. "Speaking of that? I am sure you have noticed what I said tonight. I was going for the impression, you are a friend of Janet's. Who has been showing me New York. To explain why you are around two Avengers."

Spider-Woman (Drew) has posed:
Jessica nods slightly. "Quite all right. But I gave up my secret identity when I joined the Avengers. It is just how they work as a team. No secret identities. No hiding. I have not hidden my identity in the many months since Tony brought me in. But your consideration is much appreciated."