Our story, specifically, follows one such group of airborne vigilantes. The private “flying club” of Colonel Montgomery Molyneux, known widely as the “Flyin’ Lions.” Colonel Molyneux, an ex-army man, built renown for his cunning and bravery in battle, and later, his impeccable leadership. When the world’s armies all but dissolved under the Progress Treaty of 1940, he took his severance package and purchased a small, recently-abandoned Army airfield, nestled in the high peaks of the Catskill Mountains, well above the toxic embrace of the Fog. From here, he built his perfect fighting force: folks from all walks of life, dedicated to the safety of the public and the betterment of mankind. 

 

Those who were invited by Monty Molyneux to fly alongside him are said to be the best of the best, hotshots and cowboys of the skies. Over the years, they grew to be the most bountifully employed private air defense service in the US-- without ever shifting command, changing their motivations, or even growing much in size. Molyneux has one constant in his hiring process-- he plucks only the most adept workers, no other conditions considered. He prides himself on his pilots and ground staff, oft claiming that they are the single most qualified defense force in the business.

The Lions' home base, once referred to as "US Army Air Base Hunter," is now an eclectic and eccentric community, since renamed appropriately to "The Lion's Den." Being a man of structure, Colonel Molyneux still expects his troops to follow the guidelines of your standard military: command structure, uniforms, wake-up call, mess hall and meal times... But being a bit of an eccentric himself, Molyneux allows for a fair amount of individualism between the crew. Handpainted planes, customized uniforms, decorated bunks and colorful buildings are commonplace on the property. 

The complex features four large hangars, an air traffic control tower, two crew barracks, a small smattering of officers' quarters, a mess hall, and the administration building. It's not a large base, and over the years, has developed its own cozy character as the crews that pass through continue to decorate and alter it as they see fit. The once-austere and somber campus is now a lively community; a melting pot of cultures, styles and tastes. The Lions currently have a fleet of 15 planes ready for operation: 5 fighter planes, 5 long-range cargo planes, 3 dive bombers, 1 reconnaissance scout, and a hulking converted bomber that the crews outfit to fill various roles, affectionately named "Big Bess."