<strong>Dominic (Philadelphia)</strong><br/><br/>The dinner at the Four Seasons was delicious.  They know how to pamper their patrons.  Pampering was something Dominic was used to.  Marie was delightful company.  Something else Dominic was used to.  Despite these indulgences, Dominic was distracted throughout the meal.  Things were in motion and he could not help but feel like every minute was a wasted opportunity.  He turned and smiled at Marie.  "I am sorry, dear.  I am not much company tonight."<br/><br/>"I understand, Mr. Sugar..." she replied, but Dominic cut her off.  "Please, Dominic.  Mr. Sugar sounds so formal and only reminds me of business."  After a short pause, Marie asked, "What's the matter?"  Dominic took a deep breath and quickly let it out feeling a bit like Atlas buckling under the weight of the heavens.  "I just have a lot on my mind." He finally replied.  It was not that he thought Marie would not understand or that she was not genuinely concerned.  Some of the things were actually classified and it was probably best not to mention what the senator wanted just yet.  Finally he thought up a generic answer that he believed would satisfy his lovely companion.  "These metahumans have changed the landscape.  There is a lot that needs to be done."<br/><br/>Marie smiled prettily and reached across the table to take hold of Dominic's hand.  "I've had a lovely evening." she said.  Dominic laid his other hand on top of hers and flashed his charming smile at her.  Marie continued, "Maybe next time we bump into one another, you will not be so busy."  Dominic nodded.  "It's a date."<br/><br/>Knowing they were not spending the night together relieved some of the pressure off of Dominic and he was able to enjoy dessert.  They talked while she waited for a taxi and Dominic gave her a non-committal peck on the cheek to send her off.  As soon as her cab rounded the corner out of sight, he retrieved his messages and headed up stairs.  He did not even make the elevator before his phone was out again.<br/><br/>"George?  Dominic.  You know that list I asked you to compile?  I need it tomorrow.  I need you to flag anyone with military or law enforcement experience, I will start with them.  And anyone who looks to be able to handle themselves in a fight.  I am sorry about your brother's wedding but things are moving pretty fast.  Have you been following LA?  Yep.  Washington is getting nervous.  It is only a matter of time before they do something.  If we are not that something, someone else is.  And you know what the first thing they are gong to do – registration.  If you do not want to be on that list, then get me mine tomorrow."<br/><br/>Dominic hung up and dialed another number as the elevator doors opened.  "Warren?  How are you doing?  Yes, I know it is late.  I am sorry to trouble you.  Look, this LA thing is making Washington nervous.  I am afraid someone is going to suggest 'registration'.  I want to cut it off at the pass and I am going to need something more than a Godwin to...what's that?  Seriously?  You've' never heard of Godwin's Law?  What kind of lawyer are you?  Just kidding.  It is an internet meme.  Basically comparing something to Nazis.  Exactly!  I am working a couple angles, but it could not hurt to hit 'em with civil liberties.  Tomorrow afternoon would be great.  Thanks, Warren."<br/><br/>Dominic had to switch hands to work the pass key and open the door.  He tossed the messages on the bed as he turned the television on to catch the latest from LA.<br/><br/>"Jackson?  Dominic.  How is Aruba treating you?  Well I have something you might be interested in.  Yes, I know you are retired.  Yes...yes, I remember you swore never again.  Hear me out.  Have you been keeping up on the metahumans?  Do you know about LA?  No, the storm is not natural.  Yep.  They are getting nervous.  They tasked me with running some numbers and putting together an assessment.  I want to go a step further.  Someone is going to put together a team and I would rather be the one doing it.  Sticking my nose where it doesn't belong?  Look, you are the one who doesn't trust them further than you can throw them.  Wouldn't you rather be the one pulling the strings?"<br/><br/>"I need someone who can work with rookies.  I need someone with initiative.  I need someone who can keep their cool when the plan falls apart.  Washington does not even know what they want yet.  They are going to want to point at LA and say, 'Take care of<em>that</em>.'.  Retired?  Don't give me that.  I know you miss the field.  Get packed.  I will send you a ticket.  See you in a couple of days."<br/><br/>Dominic clicked his phone off and picked up the plain, white envelopes.  "Let's see what else needs juggled."