“Centuries ago, the Free Masons founded the Phoenix Society, and they’re usually crossed up with the Dragon Society.”
“Shapeshifters?”
“No. Triads.”
That shocked her. “As in the Chinese mafia?”
“Yes, but this particular sect has some special skills and friends that make them IA eligible.”
Which meant they were packed with psychic abilities, shapeshifters, cambions or who knew what. “Great! I’m so glad I work here and am learning about all these fun entities.”
“I know, and you’re going to love this next group even more.”
What could be worse?
Oh wait, a Celtic paranormal group. “Lucky Charms Society?”
“No. The Star Overlords.”
Sorcha burst out laughing. Until she saw that Luke wasn’t amused so this had to be a real thing. “You’re kidding, right?”
He shook his head slowly. “Ancient alien astronaut theorists would have a field day with them. They’re made up of a number of representatives from various worlds who want to stake a claim here on Earth. Why do you think they created the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs?”
Her head reeling, she moved to take a seat in the black suede chair in front of his desk. “But the group goes by the name Star Overlords?”
“No one ever said they were creative.”
“No, but they are a bit conceited.”
“Again, not of this earth. They view humanity as a parasite they want to corral and put in a cage. It’s been hard to keep them back, but so far, diplomacy and treaties have worked.”
That made her feel all warm and fluffy. “You think if we buy E.T. a phone they’d go home and leave Earth alone?”
“Tried and failed.”
Her jaw went slack. Of course they’d tried. This felt more and more surreal. “And the rest of the Orders?” she asked, afraid of the answer.
“La Quinta Columna.”
“Spanish?”
“Close. Aztec and Mayan. In English they’re known as the Fifth Column.”
“Beautimous. Next?”
“Sisters of the Cauldron who are sometimes known as Magespawn.”
“Why Magespawn?”
“Some of the males and others of their Order get a little miffed at being called sisters. They wanted a more gender-neutral moniker.”
“But those in the Brotherhood of Shadows are okay with that?”
Luke shrugged. “I’m not the one who created the groups or who participates in them. Take it up with their ancestors and members.”
“Fine. How many are left?”
“Just a few more such as the Infernal Order?—”
