Vincent almost crushes the phone in his grasp and shouts at the pilots. “Abort! We are returning to base,” Vincent ordered.

“But sir-,” One of the pilots protested before being cut off.

“Do I need to repeat myself again?” Vincent menacingly said. The wide-eyed pilot shakes his head in fear and swiftly the plane leaps higher into the atmosphere away from the castle. Vincent glances emotionlessly down at the charming scene below until the cloud cover covers his sight. With a great deal of reluctance, Vincent sends a single line message to the only number on his phone. Vincent lips pursed in irritation as he waits for the explosive reaction.

*

Douglas Montgomery smile widens as the long-awaited message finally arrives. Douglas soundlessly excuses himself from the conversation. #017 from her position opens her mouth to receive a sweet from Tyler. Chewing, #017 frowns at the taste and says, “Too much Sherry.”

Tyler excitedly says, “That’s exactly what I thought!” Before turning back to search for more sweets.

#017 busily chews as her eyes remain locked on the figure of her uncle. A slight smirk appears on her face at the stiffening body that said it all. Turning back to Tyler, #017 suggests, “How about the white fudge next?” Tyler eagerly nods his head in agreement and sleepily yawns. It was time for his bedtime, but he didn’t want to go yet, he was having so much fun!

*

Douglas hands almost crush the phone in his hand at the single line message reads, “The Queen Mother destroyed all existing networks.” Douglas wracks his mind trying to understand how such a failure occurred? It was impossible, everything was in perfect order. Then how?

Douglas Montgomery’s eyes unconsciously flicker towards his gray-haired niece. Frowning, his eyes turn cold as he turns back toward his wife. It was impossible, but he would confirm his suspicions before the night was over. Walking back towards his wife, Douglas stops and raises gaze upward.

Coincidentally, Douglas sees his youngest son and beloved niece make their way back towards them. Douglas relaxes his body as Bonnie slightly tenses and the conversation ceases. The Cross couple remain watching as does Soren and Albert.

#017 comes to a stop and says, “Tyler is ready to go to bed and I believe I shall now excuse myself. I had a wonderful time and I wouldn’t like to overstay my welcome.”

Bonnie blinks with surprise as Tyler yawns and sleepily rubs his eyes in emphasis. Bonnie swiftly says, “Of course not, you’re more than welcome to stay.” #017 politely smiles back but does not reply. Bonnie swiftly excuses herself and takes her youngest by the hand to tuck him into bed. Being firmly dragged away, Tyler waves goodbye to his new found best friend/cousin before vanishing into the crowd.

#017 nods at the Cross couple and says, “It was wonderful to meet you all. However, I must take my leave now. It was nice to see you again, Albert and council member, Soren.” #017 pauses before adding, “Thank you for the invite uncle Douglas, I truly did enjoy myself.” #017 turns away having excused herself and makes her way through the crowd. The Cross couple relaxes as does Soren leaving Albert somewhat perplexed at their actions.

Douglas smiles warmly at the group and says, “Excuse me, everyone, but I must speak to my niece in private.” The group nods at him as Douglas Montgomery swiftly makes his way after his niece.

Douglas catches up to her as #017 puts on her coat. Douglas kindly says, “Please allow me to see you out, Victoria.”

#017 doesn’t respond and makes her way down in silence as Douglas walks at her side. “It was nice to get together with the family again, I hope uncle won’t mind if I decide to drop by next year?” #017 politely asked.

“No, no. We would be delighted to have you again. But Victoria, if I may ask, just how is your mother?” Douglas pointedly asked.

#017 comes to a halt and calmly says, “Why don’t you tell me, Uncle Douglas? I haven’t seen her for some time.”

Douglas carefully studies his nieces face for any change in expressions. Douglas carefully replies, “No, I was just curious.”

“Be careful, Uncle Douglas, you wouldn’t want Bonnie to overhear you, now would we?” #017 impishly commented.

Douglas's faces stiffened at the subtle jab. “It’s the holiday’s, I was just wondering if you were going to see her, that’s all. But I’m sure you will be seeing your mother very soon,” Douglas matter-of-factly stated.

#017 doesn’t reveal her emotional turmoil at those words. Instead, #017 says, “Yes, I believe you are right, Uncle Douglas. In the spirit of the holiday, I believe I shall indeed heed your advice uncle and arrange a visit to see mother.”

The air turns awkward as Douglas remains still with a poker face. Changing the subject, Douglas says, “Well, good night, Victoria and Merry Christmas.” Without further ado, Douglas turns around and returns to the party still in full swing.

#017 coldly narrows her eyes and turns around as the doorman open the doors for her to depart. The weather is still cold and snowing as #017 descends the salted steps and into the open car. A footman closes the door behind her as #017 makes herself comfortable in the warm car. Jerry, the driver glances in the rearview mirror and begins to drive. As they head down the driveway Jerry asks, “How was the party, Ma’am?”

“It was enlightening,” #017 honestly replied.

“I’m glad you enjoyed yourself,” Jerry said. And without being asked, Jerry turned up the heat in the back. #017 remains silent the entire drive as she watches the snow fall to the earth and crumbles.