Gathering at the clock tower

[Silver Swan]

From St. Regis to Charope

[ It takes a short time for Silver Swan to make it from the St Regis hotel to the Charope office.]

[ Manifesting the full aspect of the Silver Swan, Sharon lands on the roof of Charope and enters the building through the restricted access on the roof]

[ She arrives on the floor of Alycia's office and enters to find Alycia, Xavier, and Delilah]

Thank the goddess!

[ She exclaims with relief as they all jump and turn to see her standing there]

I called to check on you, Alycia, make sure everything was okay! When you didn't answer, I became worried that something happened, so I hurried here.

[ She looked at her, then Xavier, and then Delilah. She saw Xavier and Alycia exchange a glance, and her silver eyes narrowed. ]

Alycia: I'm sorry, Sharon. Everything's fine, really! Xavier's been with me...the whole time.


Sharon: Was he indeed? [ Sharon eyed Xavier with a knowing look] And Rose? Is she secure?


Alycia: Most definitely. Gabriel Jerome and his assistant, Ramsey, brought the new security and defense systems online this morning. Any last minute infrustracture repairs were completed as well.

[ Sharon wasn't the ONLY one with questions though...]

Alycia: And how about YOU, Sharon? Your evening must have been most satisfactory....since you're just NOW returning!

[ Alycia had no problem turning it back on Sharon, as she smirked at her best friend. Only she and Sharon knew where the mutate had been, and what...or WHOM she'd been doing ]

Sharon: well...

[ Sharon, suddenly unable to guilt Alycia so easily for HER lack of response, looked away for a moment, clearing her throat]

Sharon:...YES...things went quite well for me last night.

[ Delilah and Xavier were staring at her. RARELY did she feel self conscious, but in this moment, she felt the need to be discreet]

Sharon: I'm quite relieved to know that YOU'RE okay, and that Rose is secure. I had to be sure, with that venus flytrap Persephone on the loose. What about Zach?

Alycia: Oh....he's with Valkyrie.

Sharon: Hmph.

[ Both women roll their eyes at the thought, but at least he was SAFE.]

Alycia: At least he's not alone. I'd rather he be here...or at the clock tower, but we can't control him. I think he's learned something from all of this, and he won't make the mistake he made last time. Besides, if Persephone or even Black Widow were to try anything against him, at least he's with another power house that will give them what for.

[ Sharon relaxed a bit. She loathed Valkyrie, but Alycia was right. Valkyrie would do everything she could to protect him from those renegade turncoats, and that's what was important.]

Sharon: And what about that WORM, Dennis Nedry?

Alycia: Delilah is going to help me dig up some dirt on him so I can hopefully blow him out of the water when we wind up in court.

Sharon: Good. He'll probably be on his way back to the Sanctuary TODAY.

Alycia: Even if he does, Rose has all her bases covered. He won't find anything. Still...

:: Looking at Delilah::

Alycia: ....we'd better get to work on this.

Sharon: And what of Oracle? Should we not contact her as well.

Alycia: We can do that now.

:: Standing up, she looks at Delilah once more::

Alycia: Delilah, thank you again. I'll look for your follow up in a few hours.

[ Sharon eyes Xavier once more]

with her the whole time INDEED.

[ Well, at leasat Alycia had been in...good HANDS. ]


[ moments later, via their com link]

>>Silver Swan to Oracle: Oracle, Silver Swan. I'm with Charope. She and MorningStar are conducting an investigation into Dennis Nedry. Is everything okay your way?

 

[Malice]

Hellfire- The Catacombs

"From what Mystique has informed me, Rose is teetering on the edge. Phasing back and forth between sane and insane. She's going to snap and SOON. And I know the PERFECT way to send her over the edge."

Helena purred with a cheshire cat like smile; both Queens knowing EXACTLY what she was referring to.

:: Malice nodded in agreement, and with approval. That OTHER plan that Helena had set in motion was working quite well.::

"Good, we need to nip that in the bud."

Haleigh said, waltzing in to the room with the Queens.

:: Malice turned to look at Scion, as did the other queens. The all watched her as she strode right in, as if she was INVITED...::

"Aren't puns fun? Good morning Queens."

She greeted, smiling when her gaze landed on the kitten. She sauntered over to where her mother was. Perle perked up and started purring and Haleigh gently scratched under the kitten's chin. She didn't seem at all phased by any of the looks she was getting. Her palm up in front of the kitten, she lowered her hand a bit, and a little metallic object appeared in her hand. It was a tiny silver mouse, and it 'scurried' around her palm, begging Perle to play. Haleigh looked up from the kitten to find her mother's gaze.

:: Malice looked on as her daughter entertained Perle. Perle was immediately intrigued and drawn to the little silver mouse. A slight smile of approval formed on Malice's face.::


Good morning, Scion.

:: Malice replied cold tone as the brief hint of a smile quickly disappeared::

Haleigh looked up from the kitten to find her mother's gaze.

"Mother. I crushed the false hopes of Bishop and Morningstar last night. You should've heard the way Delilah sobbed, and begged me to stop. You'd have enjoyed it a lot more than I did."

Ahhh how the misery and heartache of that falling "star" does bring such joy to me. How she's managed to survive THIS long is a mystery to me. She's WEAK, and she's too busy being mad at everyone to get out of her own way. If anyone deserves to die a painful, LONELY death, it's HER.

:: Malice replied::

I will ENJOY feasting on the mental anguish of her mind, as her psychic screams light the way to her death.

Excellent work, Scion.

"And Maxim! Oh, he totally lost his shit, started screaming, threatened to kill me. Can you believe THAT? The man always had more balls than brains. Anyways. You can mark that mission a success."

:: Nodding with approval at her daughter, she looks at the other two queens and speaks with a bit of a laugh in her tone::

He ACTUALLY thinks he could harm anyone in the Inner Circle? Even the WEAKEST among us would be more than a match for him.

And THIS is the man whom Delilah can't seem to let go of?

WEAK.

Why Spellbinder and Harbinger ever counted her as a peer is beyond me. The two of them have so much more "malice" in their souls,while SHE is almost PAINFULLY naive in her foolish misguided sense of..."MORALITY"

:: Malice laughs LOUDLY as she says this::

The two of them will ALWAYS be the undoing of each other, who are WE to stand in the way of the inevitable? We'll just HELP things along!

:: looking among those assembled::

And as for this foolish, ignorant lout (Bishop) , It's time we showed him what what happens when a flatscan DARES to raise his hand to a mutant, his genetic SUPERIOR.

When I'm finished with him, all that will be left, is a mindless shell, human only in physical form, a blank slate for Talisman to create SOMETHING more amusing than what we see now, and if MorningStar tries to intervene? I'll spread HER consciousness across the galaxy. It'll be a trip she WON'T come back from.

then tossed her glance over to Helena.

"Enchantrah, the Red Knight is all yours again, as promised. And I brought your Rook back. No need to thank me, it was a win-win."

Haleigh said with a wink and a smirk, and then she looked over at Kelly briefly before her eyes went back to her mother.

AND NOW that you're FINISHED focusing so much on the reindeer games of those two, you'll be RESUMING your focus on your OWN court.

:: Malice immediately replied, while looking at her daughter calmly, but with gaze...that glow in her opal blue eyes that only Haleigh could perceive::

Persephone's actions will come with their own set of consequences that SHE will face. ALONE.

"Talisman may have mentioned my interest in seeking insight and enlightenment from her. I was thinking it might be beneficial for me to become more actively involved in techno-organic research and development. You know, so I can better serve the Hellfire Club."

WITH involvement from ALICE, yes.

:: Malice knew that Kelly didn't quite know how to take Alice, since the woman did not exist in HER native timeline, but was a VERY important figure in the history of mystech in mainstream, she was also Haleigh's caretaker , and...."guardian angel" all through her life up until the dawn of her destiny with the Six!::

:: And she wasn't ABOUT to let Talisman try anything FOOLISH with Scion. Alice would serve as a suitable FOIL if she did::

 

[MorningStar]

Charope

Delilah found it strange that Alycia would ignore Sharon's call, especially at a time like this, when Alycia had nearly died. Sharon asked after Rose, and Alycia reassured her that new security systems had been put into place. Delilah had her reservations about using a company other than Clandestine, who had a proven track record, but it was not her place to intervene.

Alycia and Sharon seemed to be talking in code to each other, which was getting kind of annoying. Delilah glanced at Xavier, then stared back at Sharon & Alycia.

What about Zach?

Oh....he's with Valkyrie.

Delilah raised an eyebrow at this.

"Oh, you're kidding."

That girl apparently was giving it out all over town. But she'd thought Zach was smarter than that. Maybe she SHOULD have blown his balls off, done him a favor.

"I wouldn't mind seeing Haleigh's face when she finds out, though. Maybe we should send her a video."

Discussion turned thankfully to Dennis Nedry.

...we'd better get to work on this.

"I'm on my way out, I'll make contact on my end and let you know how it goes."

Sharon & Alycia, meanwhile, would contact Oracle.

"Be safe, you three."

As soon as she was out of Alycia's office and on her way outside, she put her phone to her ear, dialing John Steele. He didn't pick up immediately, and when he did, he sounded distracted.

John: "Hello? Delilah? Alright?"

She could hear commotion in the background.

Andrew [in the background, muffled]: "Oh you fucking shite bastard!"

"Hello? John? What's going on there? Is that Andrew?"

John: "Uh, yeah, sorry - we've got the match on. What's up? Everything okay?"

She could tell he was moving to a quieter spot.

"I need you to do a favor for me: I need everything the NYPD has on a CPS worker named Dennis Nedry."

John: "The one on Rose's case?"

"That's him. Alycia thinks he has links to Hellfire, and we need to prove it. Can you help?"

John: "If the guy had a record, he wouldn't be able to have a job in CPS, but I'll see if I can find anything. Can I bring in Oracle? She might be able to dig something up."

"Whatever you can do, I would appreciate it. This guy is bad news - he's not looking out for those kids, and needs to be stopped before someone really does get hurt."

John: "Alright - I'll check in with you this evening with whatever I have."

"Thanks. And John - sorry about the match."

John: "Aw, no worries - Arsenal's winning anyhow."

Delilah hung up, now outside on the street, and called up a few things on her phone. A few minutes on twitter and she knew that Senator Bianca Ceasul was on her way back to New York for the Congressional recess, her plane having touched down 30 minutes ago. A couple more minutes of digging and Delilah learned she was due for a board meeting at her business offices, which gave her just enough time to meet her there.

 

[Enchantrah]

They were in the midst of discussing the plan Helena had set forth in order to drive Rose over the edge when she heard the familiar sound of a nails on a chalkboard.

Haleigh: "Good, we need to nip that in the bud."

Helena rolled her eyes.

"So glad I have your approval, Scion."

She remarked flippantly.

Haleigh: "Aren't puns fun? Good morning Queens."

"It was until YOU got here."

Helena cheekily grinned as Scion made face with Diana and played with little Perle. Diana ate right into it, smiling at her daughter almost as if she were a PROUD PARENT. Helena cocked an eyebrow before glancing over at Kelly with a smirk. And all it took was a 3 ounce little kitten to make the White Queen soft toward Haleigh. Funny how when she showed any maternal feelings toward Aleksander, it was frowned upon. Noted.

Helena went on to discuss breaking Morningstars heart. It was boring and she didn't care, taking a sip of her coffee while peering over the mug at Scion. She went on to discuss Bishop as well; now THAT piqued Helena's interest. A pissed Bishop was a stupid Bishop was a DEAD Bishop....which gave Kelly free reign to make him a deliciously mutated Bishop. Ah the possibilities.

"Perhaps we won't have to wait for your clone after all, Kelly. Maybe you'll get the pleasure of playing with the REAL thing."

She purred with a grin, thoroughly approving of Kelly's experiments on Maxim and so hoping she would get the first BITE.

Diana: When I'm finished with him, all that will be left, is a mindless shell, human only in physical form, a blank slate for Talisman to create SOMETHING more amusing than what we see now, and if MorningStar tries to intervene? I'll spread HER consciousness across the galaxy. It'll be a trip she WON'T come back from.

"You had me at human only in physical form."

She quipped with a low throaty laugh.

Haleigh: "Enchantrah, the Red Knight is all yours again, as promised. And I brought your Rook back. No need to thank me, it was a win-win."

"I wasn't planning on it."

Helena words as condescending as her smile.

"Don't act as if you had a choice, Scion. I still hold your sisters FATE in my HANDS."

She reminded with a steely glare, her sapphire eyes cold and filled with distain.

Diana: "AND NOW that you're FINISHED focusing so much on the reindeer games of those two, you'll be RESUMING your focus on your OWN court."

"Yes, please. Take her back."

She off handedly responded as she scrolled through the security feeds on her iPhone, seeing Persephone was in fact back and in the gym doing some boxing. She could see the fury in her eyes, the anger radiating off of her. She didn't look heartbroken, she looked PISSED. Perfect. The sooner she got the Persephone that first made her appearance after Diana psi blasted her back, the BETTER. And things looked promising.

"I'm in no hurry to utilize Scion anytime soon, Diana. Trust me when I say she will have no further involvement with the Red Court. Keep her on your side of the mansion, i'll keep Persephone on mine."

Helena promised via telepathy with a outward smile to Diana.

Diana: Persephone's actions will come with their own set of consequences that SHE will face. ALONE.

Helena let out a small laugh, her eyes lifting from her phone to Haleigh.

"Lets hope she behaves."

Helena warned before bringing her attention back to her phone as Haleigh, Diana, and Kelly began to discuss the TO virus. She sent a text to Alek.

>>And where is my Red Knight and shining armor, pray tell? You haven't been in the mansion for hours.

Her Rook and Bishop were accounted for. Now she needed an update on her Knight.

 

[Berserker]

Bear Mountain State Park

Alek stood calf deep in the creek, still as stone, moving only his eyes, watching, waiting. Sunlight dappled the water and the banks of the small tributary. He could hear the sound of birds in the forest around him. He was covered in blood.

With one deliberate and controlled motion he brought the makeshift spear down into the water, piercing the bass and pulling it swiftly from the water. He pulled the line with the rest of his catch strung on it out of the water, and waded back to shore. He retrieved his knife and began to clean the fish. He had bagged a couple of deer and a coyote that morning, but had seen no sign yet of the bear the mountain was named for. He had plenty of time to track, though: he was in no rush to get back to the city.

He skewered the fish onto his spear, rubbed some wild thyme and rosemary over the pieces, then set it to cook over the coals of his fire.

He pulled out his phone and texted her for what seemed like the thousandth time.

>> Please talk to me. I'm upstate. It's not a cabin in the snow, but it's the forest, and there's no one else listening here. I love you.

He stared out into the green around him, waiting for her response. He took a drink from the bottle of whiskey, now half gone. He should have brought more than one. Nothing happened, for a long time, and then his phone vibrated in his hand.

But it wasn't from her.

>> Helena: And where is my Red Knight in shining armor, pray tell? You haven't been in the mansion for hours.

>> I needed to get out of the city for a couple days, clear my head. As you told me to do.

He dropped the phone into the dirt, and went to turn over his lunch. He hadn't killed enough yet to go back.

 

[Oracle]

The Clocktower

"Dominique said it perfectly....I don't think Persephone would leave Hellfire because of her bond with Haleigh. Despite Ava being 'gone', if she didn't care about Haleigh, she would have left the moment Malice released her. I mean...Vivica's right, why the hell would a Goddess stick around and take orders from a bunch of old--"

Gabe glanced at Isis.

"--school, power hungry Queens like The Sisterhood?"

Zizi surpressed a smile, leaning towards Gabe to whisper to him.

"Smooth."

The convivial lunch took on a more somber tone, as they talked about the possibility of removing Ava from the field by force. Everyone was silent for a moment, until Zizi was startled by a voice in her ear.

[ moments later, via their com link]

>>Silver Swan to Oracle: Oracle, Silver Swan. I'm with Charope. She and MorningStar are conducting an investigation into Dennis Nedry. Is everything okay your way?

"Yes, Silver Swan, I'm here with Recall, Isis and Matrix. The others are accounted for and alright. Persephone and Black Widow were in the area earlier this morning, but did not attack the Clocktower. Isis has put up wards against them now. Are you okay? Your com was off this morning."

Sharon may have left their team, but that didn't mean she didn't care about her safety.

 

[Millennia]

Ceasul Malta - New York City Offices, Empire State Building, 95th Floor

Bianca marched out of the elevator and into her offices, her entourage following in the second elevator car. She handed her bag to whoever this person was that was shitting themself because she had finally arrived and slid out of her coat - not waiting to see if anyone was going to catch it because, of course someone would - to reveal the pinstripe suit she was wearing.

Some unnamed peon: "The Board is waiting for you, Senator. They expected you an hour ago."

She didn't bother to answer this...person. They could wait. It was her company after all, and she wanted to relax in her office. Ugh, travel. What was the point of owning your own plane if the airports made you WAIT to take off, and WAIT to land, and WAIT for the police escort. Pfft. Things went much easier when she had her own people take care of things. Yes, next time she would do that. And they would go to the private airstrip in Long Island the next time as well. She was tired of the unwashed masses getting in her way.

She glared at the sniveling woman who was falling all over herself literally to help Bianca, but failing at it miserably, and who hadn't even bothered to open her office door for her.

"David!"

Her assistant was immediately at her side.

"Door."

He opened the door for her and stepped aside.

"Fire her, she is terrible."

Bianca slammed the door behind her, sighing at the incompetence all around her.

Which was only compounded by

"How the hell did you get in here?"

There was a brunette she'd never seen before sitting across from her desk.

Bianca marched over to the desk, dropping her insanely expensive sunglasses onto it, and picking up the phone to call security.

"From the looks of you, you like being manhandled, so this is going to be a real treat."

 

[MorningStar]

Bianca's Office

"Put the phone down, Bianca."

She wasn't disguising her voice, so she would assume Bianca would remember it.

A wave of light rolled over her head and shoulders, her features returning to her own as the "glamour" dissipated.

Bianca: "Delilah Trelaven. How did you get in here?"

Delilah smiled, but with no mirth behind it.

"As you said, your staff is terrible."

Bianca laughed, that lilting, practiced sound. But to Delilah, it was anything but charming. Bianca unbuttoned her suit jacket and sat behind her large antique white desk.

"It never ceases to amaze me that someone with their own private army could be elected into office."

Bianca scoffed at her.

Bianca: "If that's true, you're stupider than I think you are. Now, to what do I owe this unannounced and clandestine visit from my favorite hostage? I have better things to do than this ridiculous walk down memory lane."

Delilah crossed her legs, not moving from the chair she sat in.

"Alycia Barnett asked me to set up a meeting between the two of you."

Bianca: "Oh, really. Why would I want to meet with her? She's not exactly in my social circle, now is she? Especially considering her current associates? Why would I risk being seen with her?"

"That's why I'm here. I'm calling in the favor from our last meeting. And have arranged a private location."

Bianca smiled, catlike, like she was about to eat a bird.

Bianca: "Oh I don't believe I ever said I owed you a favor - I said I might aid you, if it was mutually beneficial to both of us. So how are you going to make it worth my while?"

"I have access to the penthouse suite of the Dorilton."

Delilah could have sworn she saw Bianca's eyes light up. She knew that Bianca had been trying to acquire that apartment for some time, but hadn't even been able to tour it. Thank god for the internet.

Bianca: "That property has been off the market for years."

"And all you have to do is speak to Alycia."

Bianca pursed her lips, steepling her fingers in front of them. Finally, she nodded.

Bianca: "Alright."

"Shall we say eight?"

Biance rolled her eyes.

Bianca: "Fine. Just leave the way you came."

Another wave of white light and Delilah was a nondescript brunette again.

"I'll see you tonight."

Bianca: "Oh, by the way, feel free to bring Maxim tonight. How is he, by the way?"

Bianca's face had taken on a cruel sneer.

"I wouldn't know."

Bianca: "Pity. Ciao then."

Delilah exited the office and found the elevator to surprised looks from the staff, who hadn't seen her enter. The elevator doors dinged and began to close.

"Bitch."

She pulled out her phone and sent Alycia a text.

>> Everything set up for tonight 8pm. I'll pick you up.

 

[Persephone]

Persephone had shut down the gym, locking it to anyone else who wanted to use it so she could work through her aggression privately and without restraint. Music blasted throughout the entirety of the empty space, loud enough to make the mirrored walls tremble from the base. But even through the deafening music, the rhythmic sounds of skin against synthetic leather could be heard as Persephone jabbed the punching bag multiple times, her foot slamming into the bag with a high kick to cap off the combo. Covered in a sheen of sweat, fire was in her eyes as she sent another two jab combo followed with a right hook, spinning into a reverse back hand and using the moment to complete the skill with a round house kick. Hopping from side to side, she craned her neck and rotated her arms, loosening the muscles up before getting back into a fighting stance to complete a few more combos before finally, the song came to an end.

Walking over to the bench, her breathing was heavy from the intensity of the workout. Picking up her water bottle, she took a few well deserved gulps while picking up a white towel and wiping off the sweat from her forehead. Finally, she picked up her phone seeing multiple texts from Alek.

The last one reading:

>> Please talk to me. I'm upstate. It's not a cabin in the snow, but it's the forest, and there's no one else listening here. I love you.

She could feel the anger she had just worked off starting to rise within her again, her hand that held her phone dropping to her side as she shook her head and looked off into the distance. She was over the games he and Helena put into motion. From the moment she stepped FOOT into Hellfire Club, Helena painted a target on Perephone for Alek to shoot at. At ever turn he was there, baiting her with his sweetness, then turning to Haleigh to make it seem like he didn't care, then coming back to her saying that he did. Over and over and over again. The push and pull; the manipulation--ALL OF IT--was because of Helena's orders. The 'love' he had for her? That was straw that broke the fucking camel's back. She would entertain the Red Queen and her Court. She would play nice. She would be the Rook Helena wanted. Until she could be the Rook that took her OUT.

Finally, Persephone texted Alek back.

>> If you're smart you'll stay there.

She sent the text and turned off her phone, tossing it onto the bench along with her towel.

Mystique: "Trouble in paradise?"

Persephone glared over her shoulder at Mystique who was standing there in black workout leggings and a red sports bra; her auburn hair pulled up into a high pony tail.

Mystique: "Kidding. Shitty joke, even shittier situation."

Persephone rolled her eyes.

Mystique: "[with a smirk] But i'm here to help....to relieve your pent up anger."

"Is that right?"

Mystique: "What are friends for?"

"Oh, so you're my friend now?"

Persephone hissed with contempt.

Mystique: "I consider our relationship friendly, wouldn't you? Come on, Seph...not everyone here is out to hurt you. MOST, but not all."

Mystique approached the large sparing mat near the punching bags, Persephone peering at her as she went.

Mystique: "We need to show now more than ever that we are a united court. Berserker may be an asshole, but he's OUR asshole. So....lets work through this, so once he returns, I don't have to dispose of yet ANOTHER body."

Mystique smirked while getting into a fighting stance. Persephone remained silent, her expression even and unreadable as she approached the mat. Mystique extended her hand out as one did before sparing. Persephone looked at her hand before flicking her eyes back up to meet with Mystique's. Finally, she shook it, getting into a fighting stance as well.

 

[Mystique]

The Queens were in a meeting, discussing Berserker and Persephone. Helena insisted it was over, Diana was angry, Kelly was uninterested. The situation moved to Rose just as Scion entered. Rolling her eyes, Mystique took her leave. Haleigh's condescending and cocky attitude was enough to cause her to dry heave. She HOPED the Queen's would let her 'train' with Haleigh. One slip....one accident....and then bye bye White Princess. And it would all be KELLY'S fault for suggesting the training to begin with. Perfect.

Making her way down to the gym, that was where Persephone had been for over an hour. It was time to tame the beast so to speak, or at least show her where to unleash her fury. Persephone dropped her phone onto the bench and Mystique smirked.

"Trouble in paradise?"

That caused the Rook to give her a deadly glare.

"Kidding. Shitty joke. Even shittier situation."

And it was. Helena enjoyed toying with Persephone more than anyone else. She set everything into motion and it got out of control; more than even she anticipated. But the situation had been rectified....for NOW.

[with a smirk] "But i'm here to help....to relieve your pent up anger."

Persephone: "Is that right?"

"What are friends for?"

Persephone: "Oh, so you're my friend now?"

Mystique smiled, loving the fire behind Persephone's eyes. It mixed so fluidly with the cold, even temper that hid the boiling inferno of anger beneath the surface. She was quite amazing at keeping her emotions in check considering what had happened.

"I consider our relationship friendly, wouldn't you? Come on, Seph...not everyone here is out to hurt you. MOST, but not all."

Walking to the sparing mat, she turned around and faced Persephone.

"We need to show now more than ever that we are a united court. Berserker may be an asshole, but he's OUR asshole. So....lets work through this, so once he returns, I don't have to dispose of yet ANOTHER body."

Kelly was nearly done with filling the Black Court, it was just a matter of finalizing some technicalities. And Diana was quite happy with Gia's transformation as well as uplifting the court wide BAN of ostracizing Haleigh. That meant BOTH the Black and White courts would be building in STRENGTH and UNITY. What they lacked before, the Red Court HAD. However now the Red Court were the ones wavering. That needed to end.

Mystique watched as Persephone approached the mat and extended her hand out. Despite her skepticism, Persephone shook her hand causing Mystique to smile. They both got into a fight stance, starting to circle around the mat. Persephone made the first move, lunging forward and sending a punch toward Mystique's face. Blocking it with her forearm, she sent a strong kick into Persephone's gut before the goddess spun around and unleashed a nasty closed fisted back hand across Mystique's cheek. Her head whipped to the side, but she caught Persephone' forearm as the Rook went for another hit, hyperextending it painfully before connecting her elbow to Persephone's shoulder causing the goddess to cry out before she spun under Mystique's grasp and sent a hard forearm across her torso.

Stumbling back, Persephone jump kicked at Mystique, the Bishop catching the goddess' ankle before it connected with her face. Persephone used her momentum to swing her other leg around and slam it into the side of Mystique's neck, causing her to roll onto the mat as Persephone fell gracefully onto her side. Mystique grabbed Persephone's wrist, wrapping her legs around the Rook's arm into an arm bar, pulling hard.

"Kelly's court is almost complete."

Persephone: [through gritted teeth] "It's...about...time."

Mystique felt a punch connect to her cheek, causing her to loosen her grip just enough for Persephone to slip out of her grasp. She then rolled on top of Mystique, Persephone's legs locking around Mystique's neck.

"And....your sister....is playing....ALL sides."

She responded, struggling against Persephone's legs. Repeatedly hitting Persephone's thigh with her elbow, it was enough for the Rook to cease her attack, Mystique kicking Persephone in the back as she did a back roll away.

Persephone: "She's smart."

Persephone responded as she rolled to her feet, Mystique doing the same.

"She's desperate."

Persephone: "Why do you hate her so much?"

Persephone lunged forward unleashing a series of punches, Mystique blocking and ducking them before retaliating with some of her own. Persephone equally as good, managed to block and duck hers as well. Both woman went for a hit while simultaneously grabbing each other's arms and locking up face to face.

"Why don't YOU?"

Persephone: "She's my SISTER."

Mystique laughed, both woman struggling against each other.

"Family loyalty? That's all a lie people like to live by because they can't fathom the thought of surviving on their OWN. She BETRAYED her REAL sisters, Persephone. What makes you think she won't BETRAY YOU."

 

[Persephone]

The fight against Mystique was evenly matched. She was good--BETTER than even Persephone expected. Being the resident spy didn't give Mystique much play on the battlefield, but from what she saw the other night against The Six, and now? She was DAMN good and way more lethal than anyone probably realized.

After a series of attacked, Mystique began to talk about Kelly finally filling her court and how Haleigh was playing all sides. It was smart to make alliances with ALL the queens and courts. Unified they would take the Six and Birds of Prey down.

"She's smart."

Mystique: "She's desperate."

Persephone began to attack with a series of punches, Mystique skillfully blocking and avoiding them. She in turn did the same to Persephone, the goddess equally as skilled in the act of defense. Finally, they both locked up, face to face and out of breath.

"Why do you hate her so much?"

It wasn't lost to her that Mystique couldn't stand Haleigh. She would rib on her constantly, making snide comments and dismissing her abilities and the way she handled herself within Hellfire. It was almost personal at this point, and it was beginning to raise more and more questions.

Mystique: "Why don't YOU."

Another question unanswered, Persephone gritting her teeth as she pushed Mystique back, their arms still locked in a stalemate.

"She's my SISTER."

Mystique fought back, pushing Persephone back now.

Mystique: "Family loyalty? That's all a lie people like to live by because they can't fathom the thought of surviving on their OWN. She BETRAYED her REAL sisters, Persephone. What makes you think she won't BETRAY YOU."

Persephone growled as she connected a strong head butt directly into Mystique's sternum, the Bishop's arms loosening and allowing Persephone to rotate her body around so she was now behind her; arms wrapped around Mystique's neck in a powerful sleeper hold.

"Because i'm all she has LEFT."

Mystique struggled against Persephone's strength.

Mystique: "She has her COURT."

Mystique lifted her legs up and used her momentum to swing Persephone up and over her shoulder, sending her flying onto the mat. Persephone's body rolled across the mat and into a standing position while Mystique remained crouched on the mat, posed and waiting for another attack.

Mystique: "She's not as fragile as you think, Persephone. She's calculated in her methods. She KNOWS how to survive....and if that means sacrificing YOU. [scoffing] Don't think for a SECOND that she won't do it."

Persephone relaxed her fight stance, her breathing still heavy. She furrowed her brows and looked down at Mystique with a mixture of confusion and astonishment.

"What the hell has she done to you to make you despise her SO much?"

Persephone watched as Mystique pushed herself up into a standing position. There was more to this than just jealousy or caution or even dislike. There was a fire behind Mystique's eyes that made her genuinely and utterly HATE Haleigh.

Mystique: "I call them like I see them."

She responded evenly through labored breaths. Persephone didn't say anything, just watching as Mystique wiped the sweat off her brows with the back of her hand. One thing was for certain, Haleigh may have had an ally in everyone else, but she had an enemy in Mystique.

"So no girls night anytime soon?"

Persephone quipped with a smirk, easing the built tension that had risen toward the end of their fight. Mystique responded with a sly smile of her own as she approached Persephone.

Mystique: "Damn...I do love group painting classes and Groupon wine tastings."

Mystique joked, brushing back a piece of Persephone's fallen hair away from her sweaty face. Persephone softly laughed, the first time since everything had blown up in her face that she felt something other than anger and hatred.

Mystique: "Regardless of my feelings towards your sister. I DO have YOUR back, Persephone. I have proven that many times already."

We'll see.

She thought, not fully convinced yet of where Mystique's loyalties were. If she learned ANYTHING from Berserker, it was to trust no one within the Inner Circle regardless of their promises.

"Thanks for the fight. It was fun."

Mystique smirked.

Mystique: "It was. Now if only we could find the time to tangle our bodies in a more....pleasurable way. Now that Alek is out of the picture...."

Mystique teased with a grin as she walked past Persephone and slapped her hard on the ass as she went, not bothering to turn around before she disappeared from the gym. Persephone let out a heavy sigh, her smile fading as she sat down hunched over on the bench. Mystique promised loyalty, but promises in this place were as reliable as the blind leading the blind. But she had something to work with and the Red Court didn't seem as divided anymore. Now if only she could stomach the thought of being around Alek without wanting to rip his throat out....

 

[Silver Swan]

Charope- Hallway outside of Alycia's office

[ Sharon was out in the hallway of Alycia's office now. Delilah had left, and Alycia was doing some research regarding Dennis Nedry, while Xavier was standing behind her.]

"Yes, Silver Swan, I'm here with Recall, Isis and Matrix. The others are accounted for and alright. Persephone and Black Widow were in the area earlier this morning, but did not attack the Clocktower. Isis has put up wards against them now. Are you okay? Your com was off this morning."

Sharon may have left their team, but that didn't mean she didn't care about her safety.

[ Oracle couldn't see the look on Sharon's face just now, which was a good thing. ]

[ She was so used to holding the rest of the Birds of Prey at arms length, she almost didn't know what to do with the gestures that Oracle made toward her. But it was clear that she was keeping the door open for Sharon, even though the mutate had left the team in loud protest of Valkyrie. ]

Well I....

[ Sharon faltered for a moment. Another are thing]

...Alycia was at Rose's with Xavier, Rae, and Danny, and she assured me that she would be okay. SO I...took some personal time.

[ She blushed a bit, as she thought about the VERY handsome Darren Hudson, and the very vivid memories, and sensations of his skin, his hands, his mouth on her, all over her, were still uppermost in her mind right now. She wanted more. She wanted to show him what more SHE could do.]

I needed it.

...even though I indulged...for far too long

[But she thought about this morning. That crash of thunder she'd heard was REAL, and it was as unnatural as she suspected it was. Oracle confirmed Persephone had been in the area. She could have attacked them, she could have made another try for Alycia.]

[ She closed her eyes for a moment, feeling a bit of regret, and shame, knowing that things could have gone an entirely different way, and all the while she'd had her com off!]

[ She swallowed hard for a moment. ]

I'm sorry that my com was off. That was an error in judgement on my part, considering the circumstances.

[sighing. She'd pondered Oracle's words to her in Central Park many times since that night, as well Simon's words, as well as Alycia's. Furthermore, Steel had been so kind, empathetic toward her, and Oracle....]

However, please remember...if you ever need me...the birds all around the city are also my eyes and ears. That is how Zach was able to reach me with his distress call.

[ The moment of regret she had over spending time with Darren had passed. Zach and Valkyrie had been in each other's arms....and probably any number of positions since he WOKE UP from his coma in the Infirmary. Sharon had helped save his life! All Valkyrie did was show up, dismiss the near sacrifice of Alycia, and the efforts of Sharon and Dominique, and proceed to do the only thing she seemed to be "good" at. It seemed perfectly acceptable to everyone for Valkyrie to spend day after day on her back with any and every man, regardless if the man was involved with someone else!?]

[ Was Sharon not allowed even a MOMENT in time to to experience things, experience someONE who saw her as a whole woman? Someone who recognized her for the good she could do? ]

[ Still the mistake she made in turning off her com, and what COULD have happened was enough to remind her that there were issues that still needed to be addressed. She'd made her feelings about Valkyrie quite clear, but there was more at stake here than that woman. People wanted to work with her, and she would work with them toward the shared goal of punishing Persephone and Black Widow! She would keep her friends and allies safe, AND she would enjoy HERSELF. She had that right.]

Oracle...I regret leaving you and the team the way that I did, NOT because I've changed how I feel regarding Valkyrie, I still despise her for her behavior, but because there's so much at stake...and we can accomplish more together, than we can separate.

[ She heard Alycia and Xavier conversing in Alycia's office.]

An Amazon does not abandon an ally during a time of need, nor does she turn her back when things become challenging.

Alycia has not given up, and neither will I.

 

[Oracle]

The Clocktower

Zizi spoke to Sharon over the com, asking her if she was okay, because her com had been off earlier in the day.

...Alycia was at Rose's with Xavier, Rae, and Danny, and she assured me that she would be okay. SO I...took some personal time. I needed it.

Sharon sounded...embarassed. Wanting to be alone was nothing to be ashamed of.

"Everybody needs time away, to recharge. I'm just glad you're okay."

She had been trying to give Zach and Ashley the time they needed, there was no reason she wouldn't extend Sharon that same courtesy. Though, of course, Sharon had left the team, and didn't owe them anything at all.

I'm sorry that my com was off. That was an error in judgement on my part, considering the circumstances. However, please remember...if you ever need me...the birds all around the city are also my eyes and ears. That is how Zach was able to reach me with his distress call.

Zizi made a sound of dismissal.

"There is no need to apologize. Sharon, you are not our security guard, you are allowed to have a life outside of us."

She hesitated.

"Especially now. We were just worried about you, that's all."

After a second, she added.

"And as the danger was here, I thought it best to keep everyone away. Though with Isis' wards..."

She stopped to smile at Dominique.

"...this might be the safest place for all of us. I was just about to contact Steel & Titan and suggest they stay here for at least a few days. I was going to extend the same offer to Alycia, and you are more than welcome as well. There is plenty of room here."

Oracle...I regret leaving you and the team the way that I did, NOT because I've changed how I feel regarding Valkyrie, I still despise her for her behavior, but because there's so much at stake...and we can accomplish more together, than we can separate.

"I'm glad we can agree on that."

An Amazon does not abandon an ally during a time of need, nor does she turn her back when things become challenging. Alycia has not given up, and neither will I.

Zizi smiled, though Sharon couldn't see it.

"We were just having lunch. Would you like to come join us? We've been missing you around here these past few days."

 

[Tachyon]

Delilah was off to meet the mystery woman, actually no mystery but a Senator, but she apparently had some things no one knew about her but the ladies here. Speaking of the ladies here, Alycia and Sharon had put two and two together and it was apparent that she knew that something had gone down. X was fine with that, as long as Alycia let the cat out of the bag first. He relaxed and waited until Sharon was set to leave and then rose, standing behind Alycia as she worked.

Sharon went out the door, closing it. Seeing and opportunity, Xavier kissed a place on Alycia's neck that he recalled was very....sensitive before and wrapped his arms around her waist. He could feel her melt a bit back into him and he decided to have some fun.

No, no. Don't mind me. Just keep working, I am just here to, what was that you said? Do whatever you might need?

He kissed her neck again before sliding beneath the desk onto his knees, diving headfirst quickly beneath Alycia's skirt to give her something he had neglected before but was certain she could use at such a stressful time as this. Xavier caressed her legs as they wrapped around his head and tried to drive Alycia completely mad.

 

[Lord Ravena]

“Is that for me?”

Red chittered in response and then went to a darkened corner and waited, red eyes blinking at her. It was as if it were watching…no, PROTECTING her.

Weird.

Shrugging it off, Gia set down the case she had been carrying and grabbed one of the guns Ravena had given her. She put on the safety glasses, as well as the ear defenders, and got herself settled in front of a stall. Soon a target appeared and Gia fired away, making an EXCELLENT shot. On and on she went, firing different types of firearms, including a fucking BAZOOKA, and proving herself to be an EXCELLENT shot, thanks to Diana’s gift.

Gia was enjoying herself immensely and continued to use ALL of her new toys as she got herself familiar with them, though she already had the knowledge of how they worked.

Are you having fun yet, child?

Materializing from essentially nowhere, Lord Ravena was standing behind Gia. She turned on her heel quickly, a gun leveled at his forehead before moving it quickly away from his face, her eyes shocked...frightened of having done that to him.

Lord Ravena! I am sorry, I-

Lord Ravena waved his hand dismissively, effectively shushing her as he spoke again.

Giuleta, it is what I expect from you. You are a dangerous person, and one that should be even more dangerous when surprised. I am not nor was I ever in any danger. Relax.

He looked upon her. She was a beautiful child, but he was not stirred overmuch by lust towards her. Instead, he wanted to do what he was doing, help her and see if she would strengthen with nurturing like a young tree in the plain.

I see that you are aware of the truth of my declarations. Additionally, I must caution you. Between your own disloyal members and the fact that not everyone who rivals you is a complete fool, your life is under increased threat. To that end, I have assigned you two additional...caretakers. Their sole mission is your safety and your training. They will not waver in either regard. I trust you will not either.

Lord Ravena touched Gia's face softly, lifting her chin up slightly as he continued.

If you need me, they will be in contact with me constantly. This time of day every day in this room is yours for the foreseeable future. Barring direct intervention of a Queen, that will be the case. Have your fun, but continue to sharpen yourself. Your caretakers will deliver you interesting things to try every day, from guns to bladed and blunt weapons. I will at times send someone here to help you train.

Lord Ravena turned and began to walk out of the room and down the hallway. His voice could be heard by Gia as he walked away.

Get used to earlier mornings Guileta. After all, your enemies are sound asleep...that is when champions are at their most effective.

 

[Silver Swan]

Charope- Hallway outside of Alycia's office

Zizi made a sound of dismissal.

"There is no need to apologize. Sharon, you are not our security guard, you are allowed to have a life outside of us."

[ Sharon was noticing the new flowers that Xavier had brought- they were everywhere, and they matched the colors of each floor, and provided perfect accent, and also the "freshness" in the air around her in the building as Zizi said this. The diffusers spread the fresh, authentic sage throughout the building, and cleansed the environment of the lingering negativity, this too was helping Sharon to relax a bit.]

"Especially now. We were just worried about you, that's all."

[ She thought of Darren Hudson standing before her, with a bouquet of Iceberg Roses to present to her]

[ She smiled for a moment, and she allowed herself to really appreciate this concern from Oracle. She didn't have to face this...this threat of Persephone and Black Widow and the Hellfire Club alone. She wasn't the only one committed to keeping the others safe!]

After a second, she added.

"And as the danger was here, I thought it best to keep everyone away. Though with Isis' wards..."

She stopped to smile at Dominique.

"...this might be the safest place for all of us.

So Dominique and Richard are there with her too?

I was just about to contact Steel & Titan and suggest they stay here for at least a few days. I was going to extend the same offer to Alycia, and you are more than welcome as well. There is plenty of room here."

Now that Rose's systems are back on line, that might be a good idea. That way....

[ she realized she was talking like she was BACK with them. WAS SHE?]

....we can be ready.

They've been attacking people randomly all over the place, forcing reactions. But now, after Firebird's fight with Persephone, I think the tide has turned. We can now be PROACTIVE.

[ YES. She was.]

Oracle...I regret leaving you and the team the way that I did, NOT because I've changed how I feel regarding Valkyrie, I still despise her for her behavior, but because there's so much at stake...and we can accomplish more together, than we can separate.

"I'm glad we can agree on that."

An Amazon does not abandon an ally during a time of need, nor does she turn her back when things become challenging.

Alycia has not given up, and neither will I.

Zizi smiled, though Sharon couldn't see it.

"We were just having lunch. Would you like to come join us? We've been missing you around here these past few days."

:: And this was a moment Simon was talking about. These were the moments to look for, and spring forward from.::

...Yes.

I'll let Alycia know, so she can put her building in secure mode when we leave, it's systems are immune to tampering by Black Widow.

[ She ALREADY hears ...."ACTIVITY" in Alycia's office, and raises an eyebrow]

I'm sure she'll be more able to FOCUS on her investigation there.

[ Oracle might not be sure what Sharon meant by that, but SHARON sure as hell knew.]

We'll see you soon, Oracle.

And thank you.

[ With that, Sharon the channel.]

[ She turns to face the double doors to Alycia's office.]

No, no. Don't mind me. Just keep working, I am just here to, what was that you said? Do whatever you might need?

He kissed her neck again before sliding beneath the desk onto his knees, diving headfirst quickly beneath Alycia's skirt to give her something he had neglected before but was certain she could use at such a stressful time as this. Xavier caressed her legs as they wrapped around his head and tried to drive Alycia completely mad.

In good hands INDEED

[ She said with a smirk]

[ Moments later, Sharon opens the doors and walks right in]

I HARDLY think you'll find Dennis Nedry down THERE, Xavier.

But you're eagerness to HELP is noted, and I'm sure WELL appreciated by Alycia!

[ She didn't mind raining on their parade a little bit. What did he think he was doing, at THIS of all times!? ]

[ Alycia and Xavier manage to COMPOSE themselves...]

Oracle has invited us all to lunch at the Clocktower.

Isis, Matrix and Recall are there with her.

Isis has apparently fortified the Clocktower with her magicks, to provide a powerful BARRIER from any further attacks by the renegades (Persephone and Black Widow) or the rest of the Hellfire Club.

If we're all together, that's ONE less avenue for them to try to strike at us.

If you two are quite FINISHED with your..."RESEARCH"

:: Eyeing Xavier with a smirk::

Perhaps we should get going.

 

[Tachyon]

SOMEONE was enjoying her treatment immensely and Xavier could feel her body tense as she reached the edge of climax when...the door began to move! He ADJUSTED his tongue speed to roughly 1000 rpm, pushing Alycia into a whole new level of arousal and release when...

[ Moments later, Sharon opens the doors and walks right in]

I HARDLY think you'll find Dennis Nedry down THERE, Xavier.

But you're eagerness to HELP is noted, and I'm sure WELL appreciated by Alycia!

Xavier stood up, a wry smile on his face. He offered Alycia an ink pen.

There you go ma'am. I think this is what you were looking for? I take it this is your LUCKY pen?

Alycia was too into the afterglow to go along with the charade, so he placed the pen on the desk in front of her and made sure his suit was still in order as she quickly got herself together.

Oracle has invited us all to lunch at the Clocktower.

Isis, Matrix and Recall are there with her.

Isis has apparently fortified the Clocktower with her magicks, to provide a powerful BARRIER from any further attacks by the renegades (Persephone and Black Widow) or the rest of the Hellfire Club.

If we're all together, that's ONE less avenue for them to try to strike at us.

If you two are quite FINISHED with your..."RESEARCH"

:: Eyeing Xavier with a smirk::

Perhaps we should get going.

Xavier smiled back at Sharon, giving her an even stare. He was exuding classic British stoic and calm demeanor.

I was actually hoping to introduce a couple of different ANGLES into my inquiry but I would not dream to interrupt a chance at team building. Alycia?

Xavier offered his hand and helped the finally recovered Alycia out of her seat. He glanced back to Sharon.

Ready when you are, ma'am. Shall I drive, or do we take the scenic route?

 

[Oracle]

The Clocktower

Sharon signed off, and Oracle turned to the group.

"Sharon, Alycia & Xavier are on their way over."

And then at looks from a few of the assembled around her.

"They're fine."

She pulled out her phone and texted John, Andrew, Ashley & Zach.

>> Looks like we're in the clear. Isis has warded the Clocktower against Persephone and Black Widow.

About 30 seconds later, Zizi got a video call from Steel. She put the feed up on the main screen.

John: "Hiya Zizi. I'm still here at Andrew's."

Andrew leaned in behind John and waved, then glanced up at something and started yelling.

Andrew: "You complete and utter spanner! I hope they trade you, you total scumbag!"

John turned and pushed him away.

John: [to Andrew] "Would you shut your hole?"

He turned back to look at his phone.

John: "Sorry bout that. He has the match on. Anyway. Good to see everything's okay there."

"We're all fine. You and Andrew should pack a bag and plan to stay here a few nights, just in case."

John [scratching his chin]: "I doubt they'd come after the two of us, but if that's what you want, Zizi. I need to stop at the precinct, I'll take Andrew with me and then we'll both come down to the Clocktower."

"Just be careful."

John: "We will. Hey, listen, I need to ask a favor. Delilah asked me to look into this Dennis Nedry fellow - she thinks he's got ties to Hellfire. I told her I'd ask you if you could see what you could find out? Alycia's trying to make a legal case."

"Of course, I'll get right on it."

John: "We'll be there shortly."

"Talk soon."

She cut the feed.

Zizi came back over to the dining table and picked up her plate, setting it in her lap as she wheeled back over to the main console.

"Let's see who this Nedry guy really is."

 

[Talisman]

Hellfire Mansion - Catacombs

< They may have disagreed on certain things, but one thing was clear. They were not treating Rose lightly. And they were confident that they could exterminate any threat that she might administer in the days or hours to come. >

< Just like crabs, Haleigh appeared at the most inopportune of times. Kelly watched her coldly. Watching Haleigh and Diana bond in this post kitten era was incredibly entertaining, and as she locked eyes with Helena, she was relieved to see that she wasn't the only one. This idea of structure she introduced played into Kelly's benefit. It was a public idea endorsed by The White Queen. For far too long, Helena and Diana had run the show. Their relationship was inpenetrable, Talisman knew that, but she also knew that there were ways to operate around this. Formal battle scenarios of the courts would highlight the strength of her choices for her inner circle appointments. The Red Court was beginning to be frowned upon, and for as much as she liked Helena, this would be the perfect time to pounce. Their friendship would survive it and Helena would have done the same thing. Helena had gotten a little too used to be Diana's right hand. Perhaps it was time to introduce her to Diana's left? >

< Haleigh's arrival did however allow her to dodge the question of working with Alice and Haleigh on things in the lab. If she was being honest, she would rather be surgically skinned and exhumed before doing so. Alice was far too close to Diana's pocket. And Haleigh was a wildcard. There was a power in knowing more about the T Virus than Haleigh. It was an edge Talisman had planned on keeping in her back pocket should the need to destroy Scion arrived. To now work belongside her and..."empower" her with knowledge? It left Dr. Shaw feeling unsettled. But then she remembered, she had her own cards to play. The research she was doing right now was strictly her own. She had no partners, no research assistants. She planned to BLOW the T Virus out of the water, and if all that was required of her was to give Alice and Diana the last version of the T Virus they would ever see, she would do it. >

< Scion began a list of her forced achievements. Listing these successes as if she had planned them herself rather than be forced to perform to prove herself. She mentioned Bishop. >

Enchantrah: "Perhaps we won't have to wait for your clone after all, Kelly. Maybe you'll get the pleasure of playing with the REAL thing."

< Kelly laughed and shrugged her shoulders. >

"Eh. When you know what he could look like, because you've examined his genetic material at a cellular level, you'll see that one of my creations might be a little more satisfying."

Scion: "Enchantrah, the Red Knight is all yours again, as promised. And I brought your Rook back. No need to thank me, it was a win-win."

< Talisman laughed once more, amused. >

"You've certainly relocated your balls, haven't you Haleigh?"

Scion: "Talisman may have mentioned my interest in seeking insight and enlightenment from her. I was thinking it might be beneficial for me to become more actively involved in techno-organic research and development. You know, so I can better serve the Hellfire Club."

< Kelly stared at Haleigh as if Haleigh smelled like garbage. Talisman did not like this one bit. While it may have appeared to be a small sacrifice, it gave The Black Queen pause. She didn't trust Haleigh and now she was going to have show Haleigh what made Talisman the vital asset that she was. She may have agreed to it, she may have known how she was going to handle it, but it didn't mean she was going to like it. >

Malice: "WITH involvement from ALICE, yes."

"The techno organic sector, while it remains profitable, is a dying weapon industry. But I assume it is only fair to teach you of your true origin."

< smirking. >

"At least to the point in which I deem necessary."

"Of course Alice will be involved. She has more knowledge of the way the virus works in this timeline."

< looking towards Haleigh. >

"Don't worry. We won't 'silver swan' you. Nobody deserves that much that attention from Domino."

 

[Black Widow]

Hellfire Club -- Catacombs

Diana: Ahhh how the misery and heartache of that falling "star" does bring such joy to me. How she's managed to survive THIS long is a mystery to me. She's WEAK, and she's too busy being mad at everyone to get out of her own way. If anyone deserves to die a painful, LONELY death, it's HER.

Haleigh did not reply. Her expression was one of mild amusement, as she was watching the kitten paw at the little silver mouse in her palm. She wasn't particularly fond of cats, but Perle was adorable, and they'd bonded well enough in the time it had taken Haleigh to steal her and smuggle her home inside her leather jacket.

Diana: I will ENJOY feasting on the mental anguish of her mind, as her psychic screams light the way to her death. Excellent work, Scion.

"Thank you, Mother."

Haleigh replied with stony courtesy, then she broke into cold laughter and relayed Bishop's reaction. The White Queen nodded, with approval, and there was mirth in her tone as Diana replied.

Diana: He ACTUALLY thinks he could harm anyone in the Inner Circle? Even the WEAKEST among us would be more than a match for him. And THIS is the man whom Delilah can't seem to let go of? WEAK.

Haleigh smirked wickedly.

"Well, to be fair, I used to wonder just why Delilah was so infatuated with him ALSO... but now that I've had him myself, I can say with certainty that there's at least ONE understandable reason she doesn't want to let him go. He may be nothing more than a Flatscan, but he certainly knows how to fuck with reckless abandon."

She said, and Diana went on to elaborate about her plans for Morningstar and Bishop. Malice made her threats, and Haleigh could NOT have been more devoid of emotion than she was in that moment. She'd stopped playing with the cat, and simply stood next to the White Queen with a calm expression and relaxed body language. Helena seemed overly pleased to fantasize about the Hellfire Club taking possession of Bishop, which Haleigh found very interesting, but she made no comment. When her mother was done, Haleigh tossed a glance at Helena and informed her that the Red Knight was once again all hers, and that the Red Rook had been retrieved, as requested. Haleigh even gracefully told Helena that a thank-you would not be required.

Helena: I wasn't planning on it. Don't act as if you had a choice, Scion. I still hold your sisters FATE in my HANDS.

The Red Queen said, and her disdain was plain to see. Haleigh gave her a saccharine smile.

"I don't believe in fate, Helena. And I always have choices."

She replied in a honeyed tone, but her gaze was acerbic.

Kelly: You've certainly relocated your balls, haven't you Haleigh?

Haleigh's stark stare released the Red Queen and captured the Black. She seemed as pleased as the Cheshire cat.

"If you ever thought I lost them, Kelly, you aren't half as clever as you believe you are. Certainly it required balls of STEEL to stay in the game with Berserker and Persephone after Ava went dormant."

Diana: AND NOW that you're FINISHED focusing so much on the reindeer games of those two, you'll be RESUMING your focus on your OWN court.

Her smile lost its sweetness, and became something sharper.

"As you wish, My Queen."

Helena: Yes, please. Take her back.

Haleigh laughed coldly without taking her eyes off her mother. She gestured in Helena's direction in a way that lacked interest.

"She's developing arachnophobia."

She said sarcastically.

Diana: Persephone's actions will come with their own set of consequences that SHE will face. ALONE.

Helena: Lets hope she behaves.

"We'll SEE, won't we?"

Haleigh replied mildly. If the Queens were trying to get a rise out of her, they wouldn't succeed. Haleigh wasn't worried about Persephone now that she was at full strength. She'd watch her sister's back, but she knew that Seph could handle herself just fine if her judgement wasn't clouded by love.

Haleigh brought up her desire to take a more active interest in TO research. She caught sight of Kelly's expression of obvious displeasure. Kelly may have managed a pretty good poker face last night, but clearly now her true feelings were on display.

Haleigh wore a wickedly amused smirk as she observed Kelly's rancor. Diana agreed to the proposal, with the stipulation that Alice should be involved. Haleigh nodded in acceptance. Alice was a welcome addition to the fray. Kelly made some comments downplaying the TO virus.

Hmm... does the Black Queen have some personal stake in preventing a resurgence of TO technology? Perhaps she has a competing project. How very interesting.

Kelly: Don't worry. We won't 'silver swan' you. Nobody deserves that much that attention from Domino.

Haleigh laughed, true mirth in her green eyes as she regarded Kelly.

"Domino poses no threat to me."