[color=gold][center][h2][i][b]Enigma Lux and Orion Endorsement Work[/b][/i][/h2][/center][/color]

[color=gold][center][h2][i][b]Bellesalle Shibuya First[/b][/i][/h2][/center][/color]

[color=gold][center] Friday April 6, 2094[/center][/color]

[hr]

Alexander, Dorian, and Paul had a busy week in Tokyo. Monday was spent recovering from the race weekend. Tuesday was spent shooting the advertising for the Fashion House and Orion. Wednesday they had a day to recover from all the shooting and work they did on Tuesday. Paul and Dorian had a day to themselves. Alexander had asked Paul and Dorian to stay low key after the debacle at the Harbor on Tuesday. Alexander had spent most of the day interviewing new engineering candidates over video calls. Katherine had spent most of Tuesday evening and Wednesday working on responding to the various stories that made it into the press as the result. She had issued a statement about what had happened.


[quote] [color=fff200]Team Valkyrie AGR Sport pilots Dorian Hornfleur, Paul Mulder, and team principal Alexander Knight had been on the yacht in Tokyo Harbor filming an endorsement ad for a new sponsor. Evidently they had been spotted. Team Valkyrie had security on hand but were overwhelmed by the number of fans who had found out and showed up in the hours the team had been out on the water. Team Valkyrie appreciates the enthusiasm of its fans but reminds them to be considerate of others around them. Team Valkyrie extends its thanks to the Tokyo Police Department for their prompt and skilled assistance.[/color] [/quote]


Thursday was fittings and practice for the fashion show at the Bellesalle Shibuya First in Tokyo which is where Enigma Lux Fashion House was hosting its fashion show at Fashion Week on Friday evening. Alexander pulled Artie to the side after the events at Tokyo Harbor and insisted on increased security for the fashion show. He didn’t want a mob of zealous fans being able to crash the fashion show to injure his pilots. Thankfully Artie was understanding and assured him that the venue would be able to help control crowds. He explained that fashion week itself attracted crowds and that security was well able to handle the crowds. Artie also explained that while the public often wanted to attend the fashion shows, they were typically by invitation only. The bulk of the crowd at the show would be people who had been invited who were important in the industry such as media, buyers for department stores and boutiques, fashion critics, and celebrities who influence fashion that they are hoping will wear their brand to promote sales. 

Artie was showing his new line and sponsoring an up and coming Japanese designer,Tetsuya Shindō, that worked with women’s suits. Artie was looking to branch out but keep the luxury suit branding of his line. Mr. Shindō was helping his brand branch out into high end luxury suits for women designing under the Enigma Lux label. 

Alexander found out on Thursday at practice that Lena had been tapped to walk the runway for Shindo wearing one of his fashions. It had been decided to pair the male models with female counterparts. He would be walking the runway with Lena. She had shared how excited she was to work on a runway show. Evidently Artie had liked their photo shoot so much he wanted to include her on the runway with Alexander. Shindo had been amenable and it turned out the outfit she had used at the photoshoot was one of Shindo’s designs. It had been altered to fit her better. Paul was grateful that the pants he had struggled with had been let out so he was no longer walking funny when wearing them. Dorian was having a great time in Tokyo despite a disappointing showing at the race. Dorian felt like he was on vacation being pampered instead of working and earning an obscene amount of money for one week’s work. 

[hr] 

Soundtrack: [url=https://youtu.be/C7HL5wYqAbU?si=ourPX5P8xmZrUXPt] Kodo O-Daiko - Taiko Japanese Drummers[/url]

The night of the fashion show was here. The long wide venue hall had an elevated runway in polished black wood. The stage had lighting along the edges that showed upward from where they were embedded into the stage. There was a heavy lighting rig over the stage with bright lights focused on the runway. The stage stretched all the way across one end of the venue with curtains walling off the backstage area. To one side of the back wall was a trio of Japanese Taiko drums. The runway stretched in a long straight line with a slightly wider curved section at the end. Seating for spectators lined the sides and ends of the stage several rows deep. Holographic walls were set to show pictures of Tokyo’s neon skyline at night, and pictures from iconic areas around Tokyo. The pictures reflected Japanese culture both past and present.  They rotated through scenes all around Tokyo. Traditional Japanese music played softly in the background over the sound system while guests were being seated as they waited for the show to start. Swag bags in black and gold were on every seat. There were cameras stationed in the rigging above the stage and around the venue to capture the show. Journalists and media had their own cameras and drones hung like a cloud in the air. 

Alexander was not nervous about hair and makeup this time. He was once more working with Derek and Ishie. He found himself sitting in a backstage area which was lined with chairs and light up mirrors. There were models, hair, and make-up artists everywhere. There were huge rolling racks of clothing with garment bags on them. Alexander was surprised by the sheer number of people needed to put the fashion show together. Paul and Dorian were sitting in chairs to his right. Lena was on the other side of him. Alexander was grateful that he only had to model one look tonight. Alexander and Lena would be the last two models to take the runway. They were the intended finale to the show. Dorian was opening the show and Paul was somewhere in the middle of the lineup. 

Paul was once more in the first outfit he had modeled in. The tight snug navy colored pants had been altered to give him a little more room in the crotch area. The white silk shirt with the mandarin style collar and the peacock blue colored vest. He was much more comfortable in the outfit this time. He had been paired with a lovely Japanese model who was shorter than him. Her name was Iori Murasaki. She was dressed in a sculptural style suit in peacock blue to match him. The pencil skirt was snug and came to mid calf with a slit up the back of the skirt that came up to mid thigh allowing the model plenty of room to move. The jacket was short sleeved with a capelet around the shoulders and a peplum. The capelet had a crane embroidered on it in silver and navy blue thread. The jacket only had one button at the waist and was very low cut. The material was soft but stiff enough to hold the sculptural detailing built into it. It was almost a crossover between classic style and Japanese street fashion. There was a sleeveless cream colored silk blouse with a high keyhole neckline with a ruffle for a collar. She was wearing navy blue patent leather pumps. 

Dorian had been put in the chocolate brown suit but it had been paired with a maroon colored vest with gold embroidered stylized wings creating a jacquard like effect on the front of the single button vest. The shirt underneath was a cream color with maroon Nordic runes embroidered in maroon colored thread on the cuffs and collar. He was back in the brown and gold patent leather shoes. He had been paired with a model by the name of Shimamoto Namiko. She was wearing a silk dark red pencil style skirt with a slit up the left thigh. The jacket had long sleeves with flowers embroidered on the cuffs. The jacket had two gold buttons that caught the light and sparkled. The collar of the jacket was a sculptural and origami masterpiece that made her face look like the center of a flower. The jacket fit snug through the bosom area and then flowed away into a longer peplum. Her suit was paired with gold stiletto heels. 

Alexander found himself being hustled into the model line up next to Lena. There were at least three people fussing over his suit with lint rollers and adjusting and making sure it was laying just so. He sighed and tried to bear it with good humor this time. Lena was receiving the same treatment. There were 5 groups of models between Alexander and Paul and another group of 5 between Paul and Dorian. Artie and Shindo walked by to perform a final check of their looks before the fashion show started. Artie had started with Dorian and walked down the line until he got to Alexander. He once more thanked Alexander for modeling for him and clapped excitedly as he and Shindo whirled and moved to the curtain entrance to the stage to start the show. 

Alexander smiled at Lena. Alexander: [color=00aeef]“Lena, you look beautiful. Are you nervous? Because I am nervous. I am worried I am going to trip and fall flat on my face.” [/color]

Lena laughed at him and put a comforting hand on his shoulder. 

[color=f49ac2]Lena: “It is natural to be nervous. I have tripped before. You at least have shoes with a low heel. If you fall, you simply get back up and keep moving.” [/color]

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I don’t think that made me feel any better.”[/color] 

Lena gave him another smile. 

[color=f49ac2]Lena: “All you have to do is walk Alexander. It will be over before you know it.” [/color]

Alexander gave her another warm smile and a side hug. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Well I am glad you are the one I am doing it with Lena.” [/color]

About that time the background music cut off and Artie’s voice was heard over the speaker system in the venue. 

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “Hello Tokyo! Thank you for joining us tonight! Is everyone having a good time?”[/color] 

The crowd’s roar of pleasure and confirmation was almost overwhelming. 

Artie chuckled into the microphone. 

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “We hope you like the gifts left for you on your seats. They include some very special gifts from a new partnership with Orion Luxury Watches. All of our male models will be sporting new designs that are a collaboration design just for this collection.”[/color] 

The crowd once more roared in excitement and approval. 

Artie paused before continuing.: [color=ed1c24]“Tonight Enigma Lux is proud to welcome a new female suit designer to our label, Tetsuya Shindō! Please give our newest designer a warm welcome!”[/color] 

Shindo smiled and waved at the crowd from Artie’s side. 

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “Enigma Lux is expanding our label to now include high end luxury suits for women. Shindo will be the primary designer in this new area. We certainly hope you will like what you see tonight!” [/color]

There was another loud response from the crowd and the flashes from cameras could be seen even through the heavy curtains used to block the backstage area from view. 

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “Tonight’s collection was inspired by some of the world’s most popular athletes from the world of antigravity racing. You will see some famous faces among our models this evening. The theme for tonight’s collection is ‘Luxury never goes out of style’. Please sit back and enjoy the show.”[/color] 

Artie and Shindo bowed to the audience to another round of loud applause. Then the lights on the stage went out and they came back through the curtain. The stage lights came back up as the three male drummers took their place in front of the three huge Taiko drums. The drummers began softly and then as they amped up the volume on the drumming, Dorian and his model stepped out to begin the walk on the runway. The crowd went nuts. There was surprise and excitement and the flashes from cameras were nonstop. Dorian made it smoothly down the runway, escorting his model as she had her hand looped over his arm. He paused at the end of the runway and spun him and his model out to the side before they started back down the runway. The next set of models started down the runway. They passed each other in the middle of the runway. The fashion show continued smoothly; the drumming was a powerful musical backdrop. The beats were so powerful it was a physical sensation vibrating your body. The music and decor was a masterful nod to the past and culture of Japan and the present. There were oohs and awws heard from the crowd with each new look that came down the runway. 

Paul and his model were cued to start their walk. Paul’s foot caught the curtain as he stepped out onto the stage. He recovered quickly and kept going like nothing happened even though the flashes from cameras had almost blinded him. As soon as Paul stepped onto stage there was another loud reaction from the crowd as they recognized him. His heart was racing the entire time though. When he and his model reached the end of the runway, they exchanged places and turned from side to side. He then took her hand and guided her back towards the stage entrance. He managed to make it backstage without any further incidents. 

Alexander and Lena were last and were considered the show finale. Alexander was in a black tuxedo with black velvet lapels. The shirt was a white silk. It was paired with a black silk double breasted vest with a valkyrie in flight embroidered on the vest. Instead of a bow tie or tie, Artie had a winged valkyrie helm styled pin in gold where the bow tie would be. He was wearing a watch with a black band and gold face.  He was wearing the black dress boots to complete his look. His hair was styled in fluffy waves. He looked sharp and powerful in the tuxedo. It accentuated his strong shoulders and slim waist. 

Alexander and Lena were cued to begin their walk. Once again as soon as he and Lena stepped through the curtain there had been gasps of surprise and excitement from the crowd. Alexander kept walking even as the lights almost blinded him. Lena had her arm curled around his as he escorted her down the runway as if she was his date. When they reached the end of the runway, they paused to let the press get their photos. He spun Lena out to the side as they had practiced. When he pulled her back to him her heel slipped and she fell towards him. His quick reflexes caught her and made sure she had her footing again. She gave him a bright smile and looked up at him in gratitude. He smiled down at her. It might have looked rehearsed from the audience’s perspective. He held her hand up and waved towards Lena indicating the crowd should appreciate her lovely form. They then started back down the runway and made it past the curtain to the back area. 

Artie and Shindo once more took to the stage. The audience was louder than ever in appreciative applause. Artie and Shindo walked down the runway together to the end. All the models followed them back out onto stage in reverse order. Putting Alexander and Lena standing on the end of the stage next to them. The others were lined up along the runway behind him. The drumming stopped once all the models were on stage. 

Artie spoke into the microphone once more. [color=ed1c24]“Please show your appreciation for Tetsuya Shindō!” [/color]

Shindo gave a bow to the appreciative audience and a wave. 

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “I want to thank Team Valkyrie AGR Sport for being willing to be models for this collection. They did a great job, didn't they?” [/color]

The audience was standing on their feet clapping and sharing their excitement. 

Artie looked like he was in his element. He looked excited and satisfied. He waved back to the models. 

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “I also want to thank the models who walked in the show. We couldn’t do this without them.” [/color]

The models all took a bow on stage together. 

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “I want to thank you for joining Enigma Lux tonight. Team Valkyrie, Shindo, and I will be available for questions after we join you for the after party. In the meantime, please enjoy some champagne and small bites.”[/color] 

At Artie’s introduction waiters carrying silver trays began to circulate through the crowd. The background music started back up again at a low volume. It added ambience without overwhelming conversation.  

The other models left the stage. Alexander was reluctant to let Lena leave him but duty called. He felt more comfortable for some reason with her hand on his arm. His anxiety about being the center of attention seemed easier to handle. This was part of the contract work with Enigma Lux. Alexander was grateful that most of their obligations to this sponsor were able to be handled in one week. The endorsement deal had been rich enough that it was certainly worth it.  Alexander, Paul, and Dorian joined Artie and Shindo at the foot of the stage where there was a set of steps down to the floor where the audience had been sitting. 

[hr] 

Paul stepped down into the crowd of people who had come to the fashion show. He had two security guards with him. He found a spot along one wall near an emergency exit. His security wanted to be able to control how many people approached him. Paul just went with it. He did his best to conform to what security asked. He had found it made his life easier. Paul was quickly approached by what felt like a wave of reporters and people. He smiled and nodded to his security people who stood on either side of him and a little bit in front of him. They provided a human barrier so people couldn’t just grab him. The crowd formed up around them in a semicircle. Paul recognized some journalists. He had no clue who the other people were. Paul smiled and waited for the first questions. 

A well dressed middle aged man asked him. [color=fff79a]“Would you mind turning for me? I would like to see the outfit from the back.”[/color]

Paul had been told on Thursday at practice that he might get questions like this from some of the buyers. So he assumed that was who this man was. Paul obliged the man and turned around. He could hear the small group behind him talking. The man’s voice continued. [color=fff79a]“Yes I love the detailing here and the fit is perfection. Of course I would expect nothing less from one of Artie’s designs.”[/color] A female voice almost purred [color=fff79a]“The fit is indeed exquisite.”[/color] Paul was back to feeling like a piece of meat on display. He would never again think models had an easy job. He turned back around and the middle aged man smiled at him. [color=fff79a]“Thank you Mr. Mulder.”[/color] Paul noticed that small groups of people were chatting and moving between Paul, Dorian, Alexander, Artie, and Shindo. They were also chatting in small groups as they enjoyed the champagne and food. 

Dorian’s security had taken him to the wall opposite Paul. They wanted to spread people out. They set him up in the same manner as Paul’s team forming a human barrier and stop point with Dorian’s back to the wall. He had his own crowd around him in a semicircle fan around him. Dorian smiled as the crowd seemed to be inspecting him like an exhibit at the zoo. [color=fff79a]“Mr. Hornfleur how comfortable is the suit?”[/color] Dorian gave a genuine smile [color=00a651]“The suit is very comfortable as are the other three I have from Artie. I feel I look very dashing. What do you think?”[/color] Dorian smiled at the man who had asked him and then turned around slowly modeling the suit from all sides. The man who had asked the question looked a little startled and then laughed. [color=fff79a]“The suit looks good on you Mr. Hornfleur.”[/color] Dorian grinned as he always loved getting a reaction out of a man even if he was straight. 

Alexander was standing next to Artie. He had two security guards next to them. They were standing at the base of the steps by the stage. Alexander felt like a bug under a microscope as a large group of buyers and media converged on him and Artie. Alexander just stood there as people started to call out questions which Artie answered. 

[color=fff79a]“Artie darling, this show was bellissimo! Just divine darling!”[/color]  

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “Thank you! I am very proud of how this collection turned out.”[/color] 

[color=fff79a]“Are the fabrics eco friendly?”[/color] 

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “But of course! I only use eco friendly fabrics. Most of the fabrics in this collection are a blend of bamboo, cotton, linen, and silk. All natural sustainably sourced and recycled when possible. The leather products used are all sustainably and humanely sourced as well. If people are going to eat beef, then it makes sense to use their hide responsibly.” [/color]

[color=fff79a]“Can you tell us about the fit?” [/color]

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “The slimmer detailing through the abdominal area modernizes the silhouette while a hidden placket in the back of the  jacket and under the arms allows for a comfortable fit and a full range of motion.” [/color]

Alexander listened and was surprised at all the thought that had gone into his look. Artie continued to answer questions about how soon the fashion house would be taking orders for the new line. He was also asked if he was going to be offering more affordable versions for department stores. Alexander played model holding his arms out and turning around as requested as Artie explained something about what he was wearing. Alexander had relaxed since he himself didn’t seem to be the focus of the attention so much as what he was wearing was. He was slightly amused by that revelation. He was surprised when a question came his way out of the blue by one of the journalists attending the event. 

[color=f7976a]“Mr. Knight, you seemed quite familiar with the model you escorted on the runway. Rumors are that you were seen having dinner with her on Tuesday evening. Are you dating?” [/color]

Alexander looked like a deer caught in the headlights. He shouldn’t be surprised but he had been completely blindsided by the question. He blushed crimson because he wanted to see Lena again. He really liked her but wasn’t sure he was ready for a relationship. He should have seen this coming after the harbor incident. He knew what the press was like. He should have thought to warn Lena about it over dinner. He had simply enjoyed her company. He had forgotten what it was like to be the subject of the media’s attention. How could he forget that after they gave him such a painful lesson? He waited to long answer and now there were cameras on him and flashes and the buzz from the crowd was getting louder as more questions came his way. A particularly close flash from a camera snapped him out of his shocked state. He did his best to push it off as if it was not an important question to him. He held up his hands to slow the reporters down and to quiet them down.

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “We are not dating. We just met this week as a matter of fact. The secret is out of the bag now. So I guess there is no harm in sharing this little bit of information. Yes we had dinner after a long day of work shooting the advertising campaign for Enigma Lux’s latest line.”[/color] 

The reporters went nuts asking for her name and more details. Alexander smiled at them and shook his head. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I am not telling you anything more. Besides I am here to discuss the new line from Enigma Lux. Do you have any questions regarding Artie’s amazing work? I can say from experience that his suits are some of the most comfortable and stylish I have worn.”[/color] 

Alexander smiled and tried to pour on the charm that he had once mastered so easily. 

Artie laughed and bowed to Alexander with a pleased expression on his face. 

[color=ed1c24]Artie: “Yes Mr. Knight is correct. We are here to talk about fashion tonight.”[/color] 

Alexander was grateful when Artie pulled the attention back off of him. He began to circulate through the crowd. He grabbed a glass of champagne and sipped it. He needed it to cool the anger and anxiety he was doing his best to hide. Eventually Paul and Dorian had joined  them as the tone changed into more of a party. People mingled and talked about the fashion seen at tonight's show. Of course they gossiped as well. 

Alexander spoke to the two of them with a low voice that wouldn’t carry past the two of them. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Does anyone else feel like a mannequin on display?”[/color] 

Paul chuckled and nodded. [color=fff200]“Oh yes. I will never think models have an easy job again.” [/color]

Dorian smiled looking positively giddy. [color=00a651]“I have enjoyed all the attention and pampering. I wouldn’t mind working with more fashion designers. This has been a blast! I can’t believe how much I am getting paid for this.”[/color] 

Alexander shook his head with a genuine smile on his face for the first time in a while this evening. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Well I am glad some of us are enjoying this public fishbowl. You make a good point though. I can’t complain too much for what they are paying us.”[/color] 

Paul’s eyes glinted and there was a hint of mischief in his voice as he asked Alexander. 

Paul: [color=fff200]“Did the Tokyo police department decide to fine us for obstructing traffic in the harbor for what happened on Tuesday?”[/color] 

Alexander flinched as that incident had been a pain to resolve. He had not known how bad it had gotten until after they were done with the photoshoot. Poor Katherine had waded into that one after being exhausted from a long day of riding herd on the three of them. He had heard from Leopold about the incident but he was amused by the whole thing instead of worried about it. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “They requested that they be notified of the team’s itinerary in the future so they can plan accordingly. We were warned if other such incidents occur we would be paying for the clean up from it.” [/color]

Paul just smiled and took a sip of his champagne. 

[color=fff200]Paul: “That’s why they pay you the big bucks. Boss.” [/color]

Dorian just laughed at the look on Alexander’s face. Dorian couldn’t let the opportunity to tease Alexander go by since Paul had done it. He was competitive after all. Let’s see who got under his skin more? 

[color=00a651]Dorian: “I heard the reporter ask you if you were dating the model. Has anyone warned her that evidently there are pictures out there of you two having dinner together? You did warn her that she might find herself at the center of some media and fan attention right?”[/color] 

Alexander froze and looked panicked for a moment. His head whipped around towards where the backstage area was. It had been a good hour since the show had ended. He wondered if Lena was still in the building. Alexander emptied his glass and handed it to one of the waiters. He nodded at Dorian and Paul before he mumbled a quick, [color=00aeef]“Excuse me.”[/color] Alexander quickly climbed the steps to the stage and headed towards the backstage area. He didn’t see Dorian and Paul laughing as he went through the curtain. 

[color=00a651]Dorian: “I should have bet money on his reaction. That was classic. Did you see how panicked he looked? He obviously didn’t think to tell her.”[/color] 

Paul shrugged with a smile. [color=fff200]“I admit that typically it wouldn’t be that big a deal. But unlike other Team Principals he seems to draw the press’ attention.” [/color]

Dorian nodded and looked around at the party. Dorian met Jeffrey’s eyes from across the room. Jeffrey was biting his bottom lip and watching Dorian with a knowing smile. Dorian gave him a smile back. 

[color=00a651]Dorian: “Well no one even batted an eye at Alexander leaving. Are you ready to get out of here? Or do you want to stay?”[/color] 

Paul looked around to see who Dorian was trading looks with. He just laughed and shook his head. Dorian’s reputation as a flirt was well earned. 

[color=fff200]Paul: “I think I am going to leave. It looks like you will be occupied. I will see you on the plane tomorrow or Monday whichever comes first. Have fun.” [/color]

Paul just laughed and finished his drink and handed an empty glass to a waiter before taking the same route as Alexander. 

[hr] 

[color=gold][center][h2][i][b]Media[/b][/i][/h2][/center][/color]

[hr] 

[color=fff200]Vogue Europe: “The Enigma Lux Fashion House debuted its new line “Luxury never goes out of style” today in Tokyo. Artie Lux said that the inspiration for this collection came from anti-gravity racing. As part of the endorsement deal with Team Valkyrie AGR Sport, pilots Dorian Hornfleur and Paul Mulder were models in the show alongside team principal Alexander Knight. It was a bold move by Enigma Lux but Vogue Europe has to say we like the results from such inspiration. The collection felt fresh, new, and exciting which can be hard to accomplish with mens formal wear. We were particularly surprised by the inclusion of Alexander Knight but completely understood Artie Lux’s vision once we saw him on the runway. [/color] 

[Image of Alexander Knight staring down at Lena at the end of the runway. The photo captures them under the lights of the runway. Alexander looked handsome, fit, and confident.] 

[color=fff200]In other announcements by the fashion house, Japanese designer Tetsuya Shindō will be designing a women’s line of luxury suits under the Enigma Lux label. The model paired with Knight on the runway showcased the new line by  Shindō. Another bold move by the fashion designer was his choice to use an older model to showcase his finale design. We applaud this inclusion of older female models in runway work to truly highlight the diversity of women everywhere. Vogue Europe found Shindō’s work sexy and luxurious. It embodied everything we have come to associate with Enigma Lux’s brand. We look forward to seeing more from this up and coming designer.[/color] 

[Closeup Image of Lena as she had been turned to the side at the end of the runway. It showed her leg extended through the slit in her pants when Alexander spun her out. The dynamic shot made her look  sexy and powerful.]

[color=fff200]There was also a rare collaboration for the collection between Enigma Lux and Orion Luxury Watches. The collaboration added a nice touch of technical artistry and luxury to the show. Orion’s exclusive collaboration line with Enigma Lux will be hitting retail shelves soon. You can get a sneak peak in our next edition of Vogue Europe![/color] 

[hr] 

[color=fff200]People - “Jamaica Williams with People. People Magazine was invited to attend the Enigma Lux Fashion House runway show in Tokyo. Artie Lux revealed that his inspiration for the line was the athletes from anti-gravity racing. It is common for athletes to work as models for fashion designers. They usually don’t hit the runway with a designer. Team Valkyrie AGR Sport pilots Paul Mulder and Dorian Hornfleur strutted their way down the runway alongside their team principal Alexander Knight. The line was hot! The term silver fox applies to Alexander Knight!”[/color] 

[Close up image of Alexander Knight at the end of the runway from the waist up.] 

[color=fff200]"The story doesn’t stop there though. Does Alexander Knight have a new lady in his life? Sources confirm that Knight was seen out to dinner with model Lena Bouras. Look at this picture of the two of them from the end of the runway during the show."[/color]

[Image of Alexander Knight holding Lena Bouras closely in his arms while he looks down at her with a smile. She is looking up at him with a smile. The image captured that there is chemistry between them.] 

[color=fff200]"When asked after the show if he was dating Lena, Alexander Knight denied that they were dating but did confirm that they had dinner together. He confirmed that they had worked together on the fashion line. Is this a budding romance? Will we be seeing more of the lovely Lena in the future? We will be watching to find out how the story ends. This has been Jamaica Williams with People.”[/color] 

[hr] 

[color=gold][center][h2][i][b]Valkyrie AGR Sport Headquarters[/b][/i][/h2][/center][/color]

[color=gold][center] Monday April 8, 2094[/center][/color]

Soundtrack: [url=https://youtu.be/Qop5XLgwkNc?si=DsUG9hU8ngaKHW_B] I Am Not Okay - Jelly Roll[/url]

Alexander had finally gotten back from Tokyo on Sunday. He had been pouring over applications and recommendations for new personnel. He had already interviewed a few key applicants that he was hoping to hire. The money Valkyrie had taken in from the Enigma Lux and Orion contracts would allow Alexander to begin hiring more engineers. The contract with Enigma Lux had proven extremely lucrative for Valkyrie. Artie was now going to design some team fan gear that would be put up for sale exclusively in Team Valkyrie’s online shop. Enigma Lux would get a percentage of all profits with the remainder going into Valkyrie’s coffers. Artie had been asked by some of the models on the set if he had thought about designing for Valkyrie’s fans. They had shown him what was currently available and he had been horrified by how generic and common the designs were. He immediately vowed to design the women some “classier” fan gear. Alexander just accepted it and signed on the dotted line after the lawyers looked it over. It was a good deal for Valkyrie since Enigma Lux had all the connections they needed to source design and manufacturing. Katherine had final say on approval of any designs that made it into production. Alexander had to admit that he had been a little skeptical about working with a fashion house as a sponsor but they were turning out to be a great sponsor. 

Alexander was coming back to his office after meeting with Felix and Helga. They both had been in a second round of interviews with Dakota Ellis, Bastijin Velnaar, and Stephanie Mitsuyo. Felix was not sure Stephanie was a good fit for Valkyrie AGR. He pointed out that she had no experience with ELS systems. Alexander argued that her broader expertise in electrical engineering might be what they needed. She was an expert in electrical efficiency and conductors. Alexander’s argument was that they were looking to build new systems not recreate what they already had. Helga had liked Stephanie’s knowledge of materials. The interviews had taken about 3 hours. They had flown the candidates in for the interviews. 

Alexander was still a little surprised at how easily so many of the employees had accepted his leadership at Valkyrie. He got good mornings and smiles from almost everyone he ran into these days. There were still those who were not his biggest fans but they had learned not to  voice their feelings too loudly. Alexander knew they were still spies working for some of the board among the staff. He didn’t mind them having their minions as long as they didn’t interfere or harm morale. 

Alexander paused as he stepped into the section of the building where his office was located. Mabel’s desk sat just outside his office door and had a small waiting area with seating. Mabel was sitting with Arianna in the seating area on a couch. They were looking at something on a tablet together and laughing. 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “Oh my look at this one!”[/color] 

Mabel chortled gleefully. 

[color=ec008c]Arianna giggled. “Paul looks like a puffed up peacock.” [/color]

Mabel swiped her hand and smiled with a nod. 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “Dorian looks classy and elegant.”[/color]

Arianna snickered as she swiped the screen and burst out laughing. 

Arianna asked Mabel: [color=ec008c]“Should I be worried this is going to be my new step mom?”[/color] 

Mabel snorted as she replied. [color=f6989d]“I doubt it. At least it looks like he finally remembered he is a man. That doesn’t mean he remembers how to date.” [/color]

Arianna giggled as she replied. 

Arianna: [color=ec008c]“Mabel, my father is a smart man. He can learn new things. Maybe I should contact Lena and drop the hint that he might need some remedial training. He certainly looks interested in this photo.’[/color] 

Arianna smiled and wiggled her eyebrows at Mabel. 

Mabel just laughed. [color=f6989d]“Well I did hear through the rumor mill that he asked her to dinner. The press got a hold of the rumor as well. People magazine is speculating about it. The Enigma Lux and Orion ads are live now. After all the press from Tokyo and the advertising coming out over the weekend, it seems that’s all the internet is talking about.” [/color]

Alexander could feel the heat of the blush in his face. The tips of his ears felt like they were on fire. What the hell do those photos look like? Katherine had sworn to him that they were tasteful and appropriate. Alexander stormed over to where the two women were sitting. He leaned over and plucked the tablet out of their hands even as Mabel and Arianna verbalized surprise and protest. 

Mabel: [color=f6989d]“What the….” [/color]

Arianna: [color=ec008c]“Hey!” [/color]

Alexander stared down at the picture on the tablet. It was a picture of Alexander looking down at Lena on the rooftop in Tokyo. Her hands were under his shirt pushing it open. The image was very provocative suggesting she was helping him lose his shirt. There was obvious sexual tension between the two of them in the photo. He looked like he was about to eat Lena alive. His hands were on her hips pulling her into him. The slogan across the bottom of the image read “Enigma Lux and Orion, luxury never goes out of style.” Alexander didn’t look bad in the picture. He looked like an attractive powerful man who was about to drag a beautiful woman off to his hotel room for some bedroom gymnastics. Alexander didn’t recognize himself in the image. He felt like he was looking at a stranger wearing his face. He didn’t see himself that way. It felt like he was looking at someone else. Alexander kept scrolling through the tablet to see that the pictures were everywhere. The campaign had launched this morning evidently. They were all over internet ads, fashion magazines, and digital billboards. He groaned as he found out that the campaign was trending on gossip sites and in the media. 

Alexander couldn’t believe which picture that they decided to plaster all over some of the largest digital billboards around the world. Not to mention the image they chose for the campaign. Alexander was not embarrassed about it but more uncomfortable about the image. It dredged up a whole lot of feelings and confusion that had everything to do with the hateful words of his ex-wife. He was very self conscious of his arms and the scars he had. The scars on his arms were not seen in the photos. He also was not sure what to say to Arianna about the photos. People who knew him would see that photo. The photo screamed yes let’s have sex and exuded raw masculinity in a powerful way. It was a side of Alexander’s personality that had been kept under wraps and dormant for a long time. 

It was not a comfortable topic for Alexander. He had avoided dating and relationships since he had divorced Candace. Paul had flings when he had been racing but they had been meaningless easy hook ups. They had not meant anything to him. Women made it easy for him. He had been careful about accepting those offers. He always made sure they understood it was a one time thing. He had always been discrete for Arianna’s sake. How did you respond to someone in a professional setting who broke out with “I saw your picture in (add publication and source here). Nice photo.” Did you just say Thank you? He would just ignore it and hope it goes away but he just knew it wasn’t going away anytime soon. He groaned and handed the tablet back to Mabel. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Arianna…. I had wanted to talk to you about those before you saw them. I …” [/color]

Arianna giggled and then turned to look at her father. When she saw his tortured face, she rose to her feet carefully and moved around the couch to face him. She carefully laid her hand on his arm and gave a gentle squeeze. She gave him a warm understanding smile. 

[color=ec008c]Arianna: “What is it dad? Are you worried that you look like you have a sex life? I never really thought about it before because you never seemed to be dating. I assumed you had a sex life though. Not that I need to know about it. We are both adults, dad.” 
[/color]

Alexander was blushing scarlet as he looked down at his daughter. All he could see was that little girl in braids who had always looked at him like he was her hero. He had a hard time resolving that image with the young woman that stood before him. Alexander brushed a stray hair away from her cheek to tuck behind her ear. He met her eyes but it was hard. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “The pictures don’t embarrass you?”[/color] 

Arianna just laughed thinking he was joking at first. Then she saw how serious he was. She caught the fear and embarrassment in his eyes. Arianna stopped and tilted her head to one side. Arianna’s voice was cautious as she asked him. 

[color=ec008c]Arianna: “Dad, why would you think I would be embarrassed?” [/color]

Alexander frowned and looked away. His arms crossed across his chest as his automatic emotional defenses kicked in as he tried to turn any attention away from him. Alexander did not do a good job of hiding his emotions as his voice came out flat and cold. He avoided answering her question by deflecting.

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I just didn’t want to be an embarrassment to you.”[/color] 

In Alexander’s head he was reliving all the hateful words he had endured from the woman who he had once sworn to share his life with and love till death parted them. He was drowning in all those feelings he had of not being good enough. That he was not a man deserving of love. That was scarred and damaged goods. 

Arianna watched her father’s emotional retreat and didn’t quite understand it. She did understand that he saw something different than her. Her brow wrinkled in concern. She leaned over and grabbed the tablet from Mabel. Arianna had the tablet project the image above it in a hologram form. 

[color=ec008c]Arianna: “Dad what do you see?”[/color] 

Alexander didn’t look at the tablet. He growled out irritably. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “A beautiful woman who deserves a better man than the one holding her.”[/color] 

Arianna’s face looked surprised and sad. 

[color=ec008c]Arianna: “Dad! No! Really look at it.”[/color] 

She shook the tablet at him trying to get him to look. 

[color=ec008c]Arianna: “I see this proud powerful amazing man that is my father rejoining the dating pool. It looks like you are really connecting with this model. I was hoping that you were moving on. You know, mom’s not right about you Dad?”[/color] 

Alexander was surprised by his daughter’s words and he searched her face in confusion. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “What do you mean by that Arianna?”[/color] 

Arianna moved in to hug her father from the side as she spoke. 

[color=ec008c]Arianna: “Dad, you have always been there for me. You always put me first. You are the man I measure all men by and you are the best man I know. How can you not be good enough? Are you hearing Candace’s voice in your head? She didn’t always hide how she felt about you. I have heard her degrading remarks about how you are not a whole man anymore. Besides if mom was right about you then she is right about me. Maybe I didn’t deserve to live.”[/color] 

Alexander looked alarmed at that and was shaking his head no. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “No.. No Arianna. Never believe that.”[/color] He pulled her into his arms and hugged her tight. 

Arianna sighed and hugged him back. She spoke with conviction, not giving him any room to argue with her. 

[color=ec008c]Arianna: “Then the same goes for you, dad. Candace is not right about you. You deserve to have a personal life. You are a good man. If you want to date, then date. I thought you just didn’t want to introduce me to your dates. So you kept that part of your life hidden. I want you to be happy, dad. I don’t like the idea of you being all alone. Promise me you will talk to your therapist about this?”[/color]

Alexander sighed knowing he had just lost this argument. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I will think about it.”[/color] 

Arainna stepped back and glared at her father. 

[color=ec008c]Arianna: “That’s not good enough. Promise me!” [/color]

Alexander sighed as he dropped his head. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I will mention our conversation about dating.” [/color]

Arianna knew that was the best she was going to get from him. She sighed and handed Mabel back her tablet. 

Mabel just smiled knowingly. 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “I will be sure to remind him before his next appointment.”[/color] 

Alexander looked over at Mabel with a frown. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I am going to my office where I won’t be ganged up on!”[/color] 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “Do you really think the door would stop me?”[/color] 

Mabel’s laughter followed him all the way to his office as he shut the door. Alexander dropped into his desk chair and pulled up his tablet. He looked at the ad once again and tried to study the photo objectively. He was ironically grateful that Arianna was not embarrassed about the photo and had cornered him about it. He had to admit to himself that was not what he saw when he looked at that photo. He had taken the chance in Tokyo to ask Lena to have dinner with him. He didn’t know if it was the circumstances of how he had met her or if there was just something special about her. But he had enjoyed her company without guilt and self recrimination. It was the first time since before he had met Candace that he had not felt so self conscious with a woman. He had been very comfortable with her. He had learned that she had been a model for a very long time. She still made a living as a model but most of her work was now for online retailers. It was catalog work. She rarely got to do high end fashion modeling anymore. Older female models were simply not in demand. Women wanted to look younger, not older. He had learned that she had gotten into modeling because she had wanted to travel and see the world and she loved fashion. He had also learned she didn’t like seafood and had a weakness for chocolate. Her favorite color was blue. She was passionate about environmental restoration and loved to run. He wanted to see her again but old insecurities had been running around his head. Maybe Arianna was right and he should talk to the therapist. 

[hr] 

[color=gold][center][h2][i][b]Social Media[/b][/i][/h2][/center][/color]

[color=fff200][center] Official Valkyrie AGR Sport Team @TeamValkyrieAGR 

Check out the new designs from Enigma Lux and Orion Luxury Watches modeled by Team Valkyrie Pilots Paul Mulder and Dorian Hornfleur and Team Principal Alexander Knight. 
[link to Enigma Lux and Orion websites] [/center][/color]

[hr] 

[center][b][i] [color=fff200]TMZ has been following the new fashion line launched by the powerhouse duo of Enigma Lux and Orion Luxury Watches after we brought you exclusives from Tokyo about anti-gravity team Valkyrie AGR Sport. It appears that Paul Mulder was working when those photos were taken that showed him and Scottish model Megan Macdonald grabbing his derriere. TMZ followed up on the story and it appeared Megan was hoping for a date. However, there are rumors and pictures floating around the silver fox of Team Valkyrie, Alexander Knight might be dating model Lena Bouras. Knight confirmed rumors that they had been out to dinner together.  Gossip and comments about the fashion ads are burning up the internet on social media and fan sites. It seems to be all anyone is talking about today. Don’t forget to check in with TMZ as we keep you updated on what’s happening with your favorite celebrities. This has been Lilly Stryker with TMZ.[/color][/i][/b] [/center]

[color=fff200]OfficeDrone#12:[/color] I didn’t know Knight had it in him. #SilverFox
[color=fff200]SuperfanAGR54:[/color] It's an ad endorsement. So what? All the pilots get them.
[color=fff200]DantheMan:[/color] Can we get back to talking about racing?
[color=fff200]Superfan2075:[/color] Why is the internet losing its mind over this?
[color=fff200]DadBod89:[/color] What is the big deal? The guy posed for a picture. So he has before when he was a racer. 
[color=fff200]Hater101:[/color] Don’t care about the ads. Can we get back to the fact that he is not doing a very good job?
[color=fff200]Papabear34:[/color] I wouldn’t mind posing in his place. Wow! 
[color=fff200]Nana2050:[/color] Knight still has it ladies. Look at those abs!
[color=fff200]GeorgeFly:[/color] I would rather hear what is doing to help solve the issues Valkyrie is facing. They didn’t do so great in Tokyo. 
[color=fff200]ValkyrieFan56:[/color] They all look good. I am excited to see what kind of fan gear Enigma Lux produces. 
[color=fff200]Weedhead81:[/color] Damn man. I hope I look that good when I get old. 
[color=fff200]SexyM@m@5:[/color] Dorian looks classy and sexy. 
[color=fff200]Paulmulder4eva:[/color] Oh I love that blue. It brings out Paul’s eyes. 
[color=fff200]Britball12:[/color] #knightfail I would rather hear he has a plan to help Valkyrie win more races. 
[color=fff200]BatDave:[/color] I am Batman!
[color=fff200]!YouSlow!:[/color] Can we please get back to the racing?
[color=fff200]xImFasterthanUx:[/color] Knight should be focusing on his job as team principal not shaking his a$$ for the camera. 
[color=fff200]AGInthusiast:[/color] Well not sure why everyone is talking about this. It is an ad campaign of guys wearing fancy suits. Can we move on?
[color=fff200]micheal650004:[/color] Dorian looks hot! Call me! 
[color=fff200]AGR4life:[/color] #EnigmaLuxFire 
[color=fff200]ieatAGR:[/color] Can we find out what Alexander is doing to support the team?
[color=fff200]Weedhead81:[/color] @AriannaKnight Still waiting on your call. 
[color=fff200]Bertha:[/color] Man I would do ungodly things to those boys! 

[hr]
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