butterflybullet:

Their recovery in Camelot still lingered, and there had been time for shopping. Which was excellent, because Vernique had managed to ascertain that hers was not the only summer birthday in their little set. And, of course, she'd told.

And she'd used some of her backup silver down at the wood turner's and tanner's shops to acquire a couple of the most stylish-looking little bowls and some leather combat-accrouchments -- two things that museums didn't tend to get a hold of this old from this time period, so she figured the amateur archaeologist'd be well advised to keep some of his own.

She used sheer hero-clout in the kitchens to acquire some sort of honey-based cake, and had these things laid out for Ryan at the appropriate time.

tooth_n_claw:

There had been a conspiracy within Alpha Flight. It wasn't to topple the government, get revenge for being framed or anything like that, but Mel and Alex had been planning. Those plans involved the birthday of one Jordan Bochs. Their team leader was turning a year older and the passing of such an even would not go unnoticed or uncelebrated.

Alex had done the running and fetching for needed items and then had helped Mel wherever she needed help with the baked goods and decorations. He could provide a pair of human hands for two hours and was always eager to taste test anything Mel made. The arrangement worked out rather well.

In the end the 'Temple' had been festively decorated and there was plenty to eat.

They left it up to Mason to distract Jordan until they were ready.

With everything done and in place and Alpha Flight assembled, they let Mason know that they were ready for the birthday boy to see it all.

ng_atlantis:

Vishin, the younger brother of Vashti the Elder, does not have his brother's rank or influence, but many would say that makes the lesser Vizier all the more dangerous. Eager enough to curry favor with Namor to be attending this clandestine meeting with even one of Atlantis' most recent and reviled attempted usurpers.

Enough coin is sufficient to dismiss the guards at her cell, and guarantee that this meeting never occurred. He strides up to the bars, folding his arms across his chest.

"Well, Draconia? You have called and Vishin is here. What do you presume to offer me?"