Martha sat glumly in her Chamber at the Court and looked at the screen of her mobile telephone. Ariana had reminded her of the party upstairs. The words of the invite were clear and precise.

Martha pouted as she looked up, as if trying to see through the several ceilings up to the party above. She'd known the party was on. It had been well known in Avalon. She'd even seen some of the early guests and the DJ and his crew arrive to set up. It all looked terribly complicated!

Had she wanted to go? Yes.

Did it look like fun? Certainly.

Did she need to go? Yes, it was part of the Estate...part of the Domain. Kindred would be there. To be absent might be considered very poor form.

Did she want to go dressed like she imagined many of them would be? That is to say: hardly dressed at all!

Most emphatically - No!

Martha had toyed long and hard with the idea of a more modern swimsuit. She had patrolled the Internet to see what was on offer. She had even experimented in private with some of the more modest styles to purchase. Martha had a modern swimsuit, and even used it at the communal pool of her Haven. But...in private, gone midnight...that is one thing. In public...at a nightclub? Well...

Standing with some difficulty, she began to add the finishing touches to her swimwear for the evening. Tying the pink ribbon sash about her slender waist Martha thanked the Lord for the modern convenience of the Internet - and the current Steampunk craze. Victoriana and Edwardiana were, if not exactly a la mode, then they were at least available! A few carefully selected purchases: and she was supplied several days ago.

The waist sash was soon secure. A spray of lavender scent. She ensured her shoes were tightly laced. Adjusting the beach hat and it's ribbon bow: very important that. Martha made certain her leggings were crease and crumple free, especially her left leg. Smoothing out the legging over her legs to were the skirt of the suit hid her legs just above her knees.

Hesitation crept in. What would people think? Would they mock? Would they point and jest? They would, she decided, probably point and stare more if I wore something...modern. Still, it is good to be prepared for all events. A secret smile to herself...oh, yes...a secret preparation.

Her resolution made: if nothing else, she felt she had a Duty to attend: to the Court...and to Ariana - who had so kindly reminded me! Such a dear friend! What will she be wearing, I wonder?

Martha grasped at her parasol, using it as a cane she made her way to The Elevator, her crippled leg dragging. In the privacy of the empty Avalon Court area she tried a few playful, limping, skipping steps towards The Elevator. Such a marvellous machine! So thoughtfully installed! Smiling, warily, she made her way inside. She hesitated a moment before gently selecting Ground. Smiling, looking forward to defeating The Stairs through the Power of Technology! Oh yes, this was the Future! The Internet...elevators...Steampunk attire mailed to you! Elevators!

The doors closed. She blinked, smiled and needlessly adjusted her hat. The Elevator ascended.