The old order changes

[Malice]

The Catacombs

I would first like to thank the Queens for their support of this trip. I am preparing a set of excursions the likes of which you likely have not seen, and for the Queens I have prepared special...offerings of my regard for them. However, I have reserved a special place in our celebrations for a person who is singularly MOST highly regarded in terms of research in terms of Mystech and its revolutionary research into biological improvements at the cellular level.

ALICE. Please rise.

You are the guest of honor, aside from my Queens, in our celebrations. Please accept the gratitude of the people of Ahadi as we declare a day in your honor as a part of our celebrations of the revolutionary work of Mystech.

Lord Ravena bowed

:: Malice stood, holding her flute of champagne, and nodding in salute of Alice. She'd known this woman longer than anyone else in the room and she KNEW what Alice could do, how smart, and savvy she was.::

:: The two women exchanged a long look between them, one that Scion would notice. Their's was an unspoken communication. Malice wasn't about to speak on the things that were deeply PERSONAL between herself and Alice. But one thing she would say aloud, adding her voice to Ravena's::

Alice...the blue print for the success and longevity of mystech was created by you. When Spencer, Marcus, & Victory began to get SLOPPY, you stayed the course. You were the one they felt would be "mere support", and you ended up being the FOREMOTHER of some of our GREATEST accomplishments and trademarks.

as well as the caretaker of SCION...and the initial mentor for Viper!

I know that you prefer to "hide in plain sight." But this once, allow yourself to ENJOY the glow of the LEGEND that you have become.

:: she raised her flute of champagne to Alice, and the WHITE COURT, most certainly followed suit in saluting Alice, as did Viper. ::

::Alice, never one for "glory hogging", was very gracious, but if anyone deserved this moment, she did. Alice had helped Diana TURN THE TABLES on Marcus and Victory, and she would NEVER forget that.::

The celebration will take place over two days and then we will depart on the third. I have much to show you all, to let you know that what we are doing here is much more than revenge, or sex, or haughty banter. We are in the process of remaking the world itself more to our liking. This celebration and our subsequent examination of the London Hellfire Branch will be yet another beginning in that process. I am eager that we embrace the destiny we have created for ourselves. And so, now to prepare for our trip. I yield the floor to the Queens.

Lord Ravena takes his seat.

:: As Lord Ravena seats himself beside Malice, the White Queen remains standing::

With the White King as our host, myself, and the Red and Black Queens will be taking a royal tour of his country, before paying a visit to the London Branch of the Hellfire Club to meet the newly installed Red Queen, Daytripper.

Our guest of honor, Alice, will be accompanying us.

The others slated to travel on this trip are: Mystique, Viper, Domino, Cobra and Fathom.

:: There was some low buzzing among the assembled Inner Circle, and Malice caught Scion making eyes at Alek and Persephone.::

SCION, you will be joining us as well.

:: Malice declares::

While we are gone, I expect that you will follow proper protocol and continue to uphold our interests.

Emiko, after this little gathering is complete, please stay behind. I want to speak with you privately.

:: Others often had trouble communicating with or understanding Emiko, who was definitely a riddler. But Diana filled in the "gaps" with her telepathy, allowing her to have a unique, and clear path of communication with the trickster. ::

:: Malice seats herself::

I now yield the floor to the Red or Black Queen.

 

[Talisman]

The Catacombs

Lord Ravena: "I would first like to thank the Queens for their support of this trip. I am preparing a set of excursions the likes of which you likely have not seen, and for the Queens I have prepared special...offerings of my regard for them. However, I have reserved a special place in our celebrations for a person who is singularly MOST highly regarded in terms of research in terms of Mystech and its revolutionary research into biological improvements at the cellular level."

< Talisman cocked her eyebrow, curious as to what he was about to say. >

Lord Ravena: "ALICE. Please rise. You are the guest of honor, aside from my Queens, in our celebrations. Please accept the gratitude of the people of Ahadi as we declare a day in your honor as a part of our celebrations of the revolutionary work of Mystech."

"That smug son of a BITCH!"

Malice: "Alice..the blue print for the success and longevity of mystech was created by you. When Spencer, Marcus & Victory began to get SLOPPY, you stayed the course. You were the one they felt would be "mere support", and you ended up becoming the FOREMOTHER of some of our GREATEST accomplishments and trademarks."

"That vicious tramp!"

< Talisman grumbled in her mind while her face remained in it's standard and angular icy expression, and fought hard not to roll her eyes all the way into the back of her head. >

Lord Ravena: The celebration will take place over two days and then we will depart on the third. I have much to show you all, to let you know that what we are doing here is much more than revenge, or sex, or haughty banter."

< She was no feminist. No, she had learned long ago that women were far better and more capable than men. While interesting and fascinating male specimens existed, they most certainly were not human. No matter how a man spoke, there was always a hint of condescension in their voice, and the same could be said of Ravena. He spoke of showing them that what they were doing here was more than what was being represented and lavishing them with wonders, something that Talisman resented. She had known this from the second she stepped down on Sheena Island. It was SHE who had inspired Malice to press further, to forge a new path. Not him. Talisman was a sorceress who could travel ANYWHERE she pleased at any time. She had gone through the strands of time and space itself to be here. Ravena was going to have to do better than a white sand beach and a few well placed pool boys in order to impress The Black Queen. >

< Talisman was unimpressed with the lavish offers that Lord Ravena presented, but it did not show on her face. She smiled and gave a socially approving clap of her hands, we see a close up her cobalt blue eyes sparkling in a somewhat smuldering manner. A day celebrating the girl under the stairs while The Black Queen had been working tirelessly to elevate a company that had long been stale and inactive was a bit of a smack in the face, and one she was sure was the slightest bit intentional. Malice wanted to ruffle her feathers a bit. And after the situation between Ravena and Persephone, Malice knew that Ravena was not necessarily making the right kind of splash, and celebrating Alice in such a loud and obnoxious way was actually a rather pedantic way in order to gain favor with Alice, who had experienced many of the things that Talisman had being one of the best in their field and being a woman. So she could partly understand why Alice seemed so grateful and non suspicious.

Alice: "This is INDEED an honor, Lord Ravena, and I thank you!"

< But she didn't like it, and part of her couldn't tell whether it was because she was jealous of Alice or pure annoyance. When she arrived in this timeline to find that both Christopher and Adam were long dead, she was practically thrilled. There would be nobody to overshadow her work. Upon arriving in New York City, she was faced with Alice, who seemed to be the crown jewel of the biotech sector of MysTech. She had outlasted the men TOO, and since then Talisman hadn't decided whether it would be more worth it to KILL the woman and be done with it, or work WITH her. >

Lord Ravena: "We are in the process of remaking the world itself more to our liking. This celebration and our subsequent examination of the London Hellfire Branch will be yet another beginning in that process. I am eager that we embrace the destiny we have created for ourselves. And so, now to prepare for our trip. I yield the floor to the Queens."

< His words were like daggers, attempting to slice away her couture. So sure of himself he was. He was however, right about one thing. They were in the process of remaking the world itself more to their liking. But Kelly would ensure that this new world would not be ran him..or any other MAN for that matter. >

The others slated to travel on this trip are: Mystique, Viper, Domino, Cobra and Fathom.

:: There was some low buzzing among the assembled Inner Circle, and Malice caught Scion making eyes at Alek and Persephone.::

SCION, you will be joining us as well.

:: Malice declares, as she seats herself.::

Emiko, after this little gathering is complete, please stay behind. I want to speak with you privately.

:: Others often had trouble communicating with or understanding Emiko, who was definitely a riddler. But Diana filled in the "gaps" with her telepathy, allowing her to have a unique, and clear path of communication with the trickster. ::

I now yield the floor to the Red or Black Queen.

< Thank god for changing topics. Talisman was very intrigued to meet The Red Queen, as she had not came into interaction with many of those who followed The Winding Way. Talisman thought the dedication to that path was always a bit flawed, mostly because Talisman didn't really like downtime. Not to mention, that specific estate was rather gorgeous and to know a high level demon had made it's way into the catacombs, well it made Kelly, who was somewhat of an adventurer, very curious to explore. >

"Cobra, during our absence, it will be Gorgon entrusted to watch over things. You will need to give him a detailed debriefing of your roles and responsibilities. If he does well, perhaps I'll consider letting him live upstairs again."

< She smirked. Talisman was not impressed with his most recent interaction with Cassandra and so she was punishing him a bit, making him live like a prisoner. Chained and in a cell, with a good amount of time to either get a hold of himself or be driven mad, and gave Kelly a bit of a tickle in her pants to watch. >

"Those who are attending this trip...be prepared to operate at your highest level. We need to be our best and look good doing it, and there will be disciplinary action should any of you give anybody across the pond the idea that there are cracks in our circle or respective courts."

< smirking. >

"And remember..have fun. It IS a vacation of sorts..and what with Lord Ravena's generous donations, it would be pure insanity not to have a good time."

< The Black Queen spoke somewhat sarcastically as her fake and plastured smile and gaze met Diana's for a moment as well as Helena's before looking out at The Inner Circle and then towards The Red Queen. >

"Anything to add, Red Queen?"

 

[Enchantrah]

Diana: Tut tut, Frick and Frack. At least my Court, and WING isn't fit to be condemned by the CDC.

Helena waves off Diana's insult.

"Cocks, Dicks, and Coochies darlin'. The Red Court mantra."

A play on the abbreviation of CDC. Helena gave Diana a toothy grin at the joke. The Red Queen then turned her attention to Ravena, who most obviously had Diana dick whipped, calling him out on such

Diana: I've extended an invitation to you MORE than once. You're not ready, Helena.

Helena let out a low, seductive, and throaty laugh, leaning in to both Diana and Ravena.

"Is that a challenge, Diana? You know how competitive I am...."

She smirked, running her tongue along her teeth.

"Well you know what they say....whatever happens in Europe, stays in Europe."

She leaned back into her own seat now, giving them both a salacious smile. Perhaps this trip wouldn't be a waste after all. However now it was down to business. Ravena spoke to the Inner Circle, calling onto Alice and giving her a day in her honor. Helena cocked a brow. How charming....She thought. Perhaps after she rode him like a bucking bronco, she too would get a day named after her.

Alice graciously thanked Ravena, then Diana stood addressing the Inner Circle, calling upon those who would be joining them on their trip. Helena's eyes shifted to Scion as Diana called upon her as well. God damnit. One week without that biohazard blonde would have been fabulous, but of course Diana wanted to keep her away from her sister AND Aleksander. It was a clever move, although QUITE annoying.

Diana took a seat, then Kelly stood addressing Cobra as well as the rest of the Inner Circle. Despite her calm facade, Helena knew everything that Ravena and Diana had said about Alice was eating what was left of her black heart. Smirking as she listened to the Black Queen stay composed and finished her speech, Kelly was learning...that was for certain.

Kelly: "Anything to add, Red Queen."

Helena cleared her throat, pushing herself up from her chair and posing with her hip out and her flute of champagne by her side being held casually with two fingers.

"Don't fuck up."

Lifting her flute of champagne up in a cheers fashion.

"And enjoy the vacation."

She added off handedly before taking a seat. Her eyes went to Alek and Persephone before looking among the rest of the Inner Circle who WEREN'T joining them.

"OH! And just because we're gone? Doesn't mean we don't know exactly what's happening within these walls. Be mindful, little ones. Otherwise this vacation will be your last. [with a smile] Cheers."

Helena took a sip of her champagne while peering over the rim malevolently at her court.

 

[Persephone]

The meeting officially started with Lord Ravena and Malice singing Alice's praises. But to be honest, Persephone didn't hear much of anything being said. She stared forward, her expression even and cold. But her mind was screaming and all she wanted to do was leave. She felt SICK to her stomach. Her body weak. If she was capable of catching the flu there would be no doubt in her mind that's what she had. But she couldn't catch any diseases, viruses, or infections; her body chemistry didn't allow it. Whatever she was feeling had to have been the weeks of Hellfire STRESS finally hammering down on her.

Talisman made a quick speech, then Enchantrah. Hers was very short and blasè, very Helena in style. However she made one last threat: despite the Queen's not being at the club, the members remaining behind WOULD be watched. Her eyes met with Helena's as the Red Queen glared unforgivingly over her glass of champagne. Obviously Helena still didn't trust Persephone in regards to her personal affairs, but frankly, she didn't care. The meeting was over and she needed to leave.

Persephone was the first to move toward the exit, quick in her efforts but still casual as she went. As she passed the Queens, her eyes met with Ravena's for a long moment as she walked. She was already feeling sick and his disgusting glare made her stomach turn even worse. Disappearing down the corridor of the catacombs, Persephone made her way into the elevator and pressed the main floor button. Placing her hand against the wall, the elevator doors closed and finally she hunched over letting out a breath she had been holding. Shutting her eyes, she could feel the bile rising in her throat causing her to try and steady her breathing.

Second floor, third floor, forth floor, fifth floor.

Finally the doors opened to the Red Wing and Persephone opened her eyes. The wave of nausea had passed, but even so she was afraid to move thinking it would somehow make it return. But finally, she stepped off the elevator, slowly walking down the Red Wing to her room. Disappearing into her chambers, she kicked off her pumps and walked over to the wet bar, slightly out of breath. Her head was still pounding--the sound of her heart beat rapid in her ears. Pouring herself a large glass of scotch, she downed it immediately, wincing at the strong alcohol as it burned down her throat. Again, refilling the glass, she drank half this time before licking the taste off her lips.

She just needed sleep....to clear her mind. The stresses of Helena, The Six, The Birds, Alek, Haleigh, everything leading up to that moment....it must have all taken a toll on her. Walking over to her bed, Persephone place the glass of scotch down on her night stand and unbuckled the thin metallic belt from her dark burgundy pants. Letting the belt fall to the ground, she just wanted to feel comfortable and lay down, but changing would take too much effort.

Climbing into bed, she let her body sink into the plush mattress; her fingers immediately pinching the bridge of her nose as she laid her head back into her pillow.

She should of brought the bottle of scotch with her.

 

[Domino]

The Catacombs

:: Domino listened half heartedly. She had only one goal on this trip and that was to ensure the survival of Hellfire Europe. She was a legacy member, one of infamy, and she would not let everything that Evelyn Pierce was trying to do go to the wayside. While she felt above the pull of Hellfire now, she couldn't help but feel a bit protective of the european branch. It was such a deep part of her. Speaking of things she felt very protective over. ::

"Jessica."

:: Her haunting and pale icy blue eyes met Viper's distinctly bright green as Domino silently reassured Jessica that everything would be okay. They had experienced something VERY intimate with each other in Europe during the final battle of the revolution and it had changed Domino. Jessica was a victim of people she was better THAN, and that was something that Domino could identify with. The only problem now..was Alice! ::

:: They wanted to give her a day, wanted to put her on a pedestal..and for what? She may have helped make Jessica who she was, but Alice didn't care about the woman that Jessica was. What her life must have been like. She had lived in perpetual stasis, denied a life of her own because she was too powerful and unstable, despite the fact that they had MADE her that way. Domino identified with that stasis. For so long, she had torn a BLOODY path all through Europe in service to her father. She was a shell, a WEAPON. But she had the strength of mind to KNOW that she was greater than her creators..SHE got her revenge, while Jessica was still coddled, treated like some fragile and fleeting thing. Maxine was worried that Alice would convince Viper to remain domesticated, to remain docile. This kingdom was HERS for the taking, and a great deal of the reason why Domino accepted Malice's offer for partnership was so that she could ensure the safety of Viper, even though the thought that she would have to protect a woman as POWERFUL as Jessica was nauseating to her. ::

:: Maxine was POWERFUL. There were only a VERY select few that could withstand a beating from The Silver Swan and live to tell about it. There was not a person that Domino wasn't sure she could strike down if necessary. Alice may have thought of her as a knock off, but that would be to her detriment. Malice didn't deal with those who couldn't hold her own, so that should have been a sign to Alice. Maxine and Malice shared a moral compass, which should have been frightening in itself. Long story short, it wouldn't be much longer that she would accept Alice's indignation. ::

:: This kingdom did not belong to The Hellfire Club..it belonged to it's DAUGHTERS. Her eyes met with Scion for a brief moment. Malice had Domino watching Scion on OVERTIME. She knew a number of incredibly useless factoids about Scion. What she most frequently ordered for breakfast, what made her angry, what pulled her heartstrings. Malice was very clear with Domino - Haleigh Davidoff would be watched at every turn. ::

"Why does her allegiance remain so...UNCLEAR?"

:: Jessica, Haleigh and Maxine should be RUNNING this operation. Hell, even Sharon should be apart of it's future. Those four women had lost their entire LIVES to this organization, to varying degrees, but in the most tribal and archaic of senses, by their blood...MysTech BECAME what it was, and Domino was getting wary of that not being acknowledged. ::


Helena: "OH! And just because we're gone? Doesn't mean we don't know exactly what's happening within these walls. Be mindful, little ones. Otherwise this vacation will be your last. Cheers."

:: Maxine smirked. ::

"Mother Dust is right. We will be watching you. In my absence, The Red Knight will be the one to mind the store. You will be given specific instructions to maintain and watch over our local strongholds. I will debrief you on your roles and responsibilities before I leave."

:: Her eyes went a little dubious, noticing that Ava had left. ::

"Also, there will be a cash bonus if you somehow manage to find a way back into the Red Rook's panties."

:: shrugging ::

"Voulez-vous coucher avec moi?"

:: Maxine joked. It might ruffle the Red Queen's feather, but Alek and Persephone entertained the HELL out of Maxine. So in love, so star crossed. It had no other option but to end in tragedy, and Domino really wanted to see how it would end. ::

 

[Mystique]

Blah blah blah. The Kings and Queens continued to speak, and blah. Alexis didn't care. She didn't care about the Hellfire Club, the European Branch, Ravena's creepy little island, or Alice getting a fucking day named after her. But she continued to stand poised, clapping when needing to clap, and smiling when needing to smile. Playing the perfect little Red Bishop that did no wrong. She just hoped everyone would stay in line and the meeting would end SOON so she could get to work. And lucky for it, it DID.

Persephone was the first to depart, Alexis watching her as she walked with a purpose to the exit and disappeared from sight. Her brows furrowed just a bit knowing that something was off with her. But now was not the time nor place to be a 'friend'. She needed to continue her game and play the part. The sooner she took Helena out, the sooner this would all end for EVERYONE involved.

Mystique glanced over at Alek, giving him a knowing look.

"Alek."

She said with a nod before moving forward to Helena. Handing her the files she had been holding throughout the meeting, they were the 'deeds' to the properties she wanted to purchase. Alexis placed little red tabs exactly where Helena needed to sign and handed her a pen.

"Just a few signatures and initials and the warehouses in Brooklyn will be yours."

Helena smiled, finishing her flute of champagne and placing the empty glass down on the table. Taking the pen, as expected, Helena didn't bother reading the fine print.

Helena: "You're too good to me, Mystique."

She began to sign on the dotted lines, Mystique flipping the papers page to page as she continue to sign.

"I try my best, my Queen."

Helena: "This is why I want you with me in Europe. You have mine and the Red Court's best interests at heart. Aleksander may have wavered, however he IS a beast....i'd rather him protect this club while YOU gather the information I want from the London Branch. We need to make sure this Amanda Sefron isn't going to try and overthrow US [the American Branch]."

"Of course. I'll do whatever I can."

Mystique bowed her head respectfully and Helena smiled, picking up her chin with an approving nod.

Helena: "I know you will. That's why you're MY Mystique."

Alexis resisted the urge to back hand the bitch for touching her. Helena finished signing all the paperwork and Mystique smiled, gathering it and putting it into a large envelope.

"I'll take it to the bank now."

Helena: "Thank you, Mystique. Make sure you are packed and prepared to leave by late this evening."

Alexis nodded before turning on her heel and quite literally disappearing from sight. Using her invisibility had it's perks--no one could follow her, hear her, or detect her. Plus she could walk through walls. Talk about cutting travel time in half. Within minutes she made her way down to the parking garage and placed the folded up folder into the back of her black jeans and covering the rest of it up with her crimson leather jacket. Putting on her helmet, she climbed onto her Ducati and started it up, revving the motorcycles engine before pealing out of the garage and speeding down the busy streets of New York.

 

[Arclight]

Alexis arrived in Brooklyn in record time; she fucking loved her Ducati. Parking behind the bank, Alexis pulled off her helmet as she climbed off her bike, placing the helmet on the seat. Pulling her black turtle neck up over the bottom half of her face, she began to walk past the security camera's that were placed on each point of entrance. There were two, plus eight inside the actual main lobby of the bank. Once inside Mr. Callahan's office however, the camera's were faced in the opposite direction allowing Alexis to lower her turtleneck.

Mr. Callahan: "Chilly day out today."

"Very. And here I thought we were past the worst of winter."

She responded with a pleasant smile.

Mr. Callahan: "I trust you have all the paperwork signed by your aunt, Ms. Quartermaine?"

Alexis immediately handed the envelope over to Mr. Callahan with the signed documents.

"Of course. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't."

Her tone light hearted and charming, causing the man to smile. He looked down over each paper and reviewed Helena's signature.

Mr. Callahan: "Well...it looks like everything is in order. I just need to file these with the clerk today, and you will officially own half of all of your aunt's assets--on and off shore--as well as all properties in the Quartermaine name. And of course, I put in the stipulation that if your aunt does in fact parish, ALL assets and properties will be given solely to you."

Alexis smile grew into a large grin. By the time Helena arrived to Lord Ravena's country, EVERYTHING she owed would be half of Alexis', and her aunt would be completely in the dark due to being over seas.

"Perfect....I have a feeling my aunt won't be around much longer."

Mr. Callahan looked slightly taken aback, if not alarmed by Alexis' declaration. Alexis placed her hand on her chest, her brows lowering and her facial expression becoming 'solemn'.

"She's very ill....I don't expect her to live past the weekend."

Mr. Callahan's face softened as he leaned forward, taking a tissue from the box on his desk and handing it to Alexis. She sniffed, accepting the tissue with a nod of thanks.

Mr. Callahan: "I'm so sorry Ms Quartermaine.....it's no wonder she wanted to finalize these documents so fast. Well....at least she will know that she's leaving her loving niece with everything. That must bring her some comfort."

Alexis gave him a small smile.

"Absolutely. She's....thrilled."

Both Alexis and Mr. Callahan stood.

"Thank you again for your amazing work, Mr. Callahan. My Aunt Helena truly appreciates it."

 

[Berserker]

The Catacombs

Alek had made sure to pay Mystique a compliment, noting her lipstick.

"Yes....it's called Petty."

Alek grinned.

"It suits you."

He and Mystique had had some good times...it occurred to him that perhaps he should revisit them? His eyes moved to the doorway, where Heidi and Haleigh entered together, both looking quite...wet. Hmm. Emiko popped in in her usual way, waving at him, and he couldn't help but smile back at her. She was batshit insane, but he felt very brotherly towards her. Cobra unusually came to stand next to Persephone, instead of with her own queen, who looked very alone all by herself. What was the snake trying to accomplish with that?

"So which of these little BRATS has stepped out of line THIS time?!"

Alek rolled his eyes. Max was his friend and everything, but he abhorred being treated like a child. And it had been happening too often lately.

Malice introduced Ravena, who got up and spouted a bunch of pompous bullshit that Alek zoned out on. Something really did look wrong with Persephone. His spies told him she hadn't been out of her room for days. He knew she couldn't be sick. But she looked sick.

The others slated to travel on this trip are: Mystique, Viper, Domino, Cobra and Fathom.

His eyes flashed to Helena, questioning. She was really leaving him behind, and taking Mystique instead? The Black Queen spoke, and then so did Helena, briefly. Her eyes had fallen on him and Persephone as she told them they would still be watching. So that was it, then, this was a test? What more did he have to do to prove his loyalty to her? He glanced at Seph, who was hauling ass out of the room and trying to make it look like she wasn't hauling ass out of the room. What the hell was up with her?

Because, of course, if it continued, it could start affecting the court. Or that's what he told himself.

"Mother Dust is right. We will be watching you. In my absence, The Red Knight will be the one to mind the store. You will be given specific instructions to maintain and watch over our local strongholds. I will debrief you on your roles and responsibilities before I leave."

He really wished Max would stop acting as if she were a queen, which she wasn't. It made her seem like a bitch. And not in the good way that made her fun to hang out with. But he nodded to her anyway.

"Also, there will be a cash bonus if you somehow manage to find a way back into the Red Rook's panties."

He smirked, walking towards her.

"Good thing I don't need the money. Why would I go somewhere I've already been when there's undiscovered territory around?"

He rested his elbow on her shoulder, surveying those left in the room.

"Too bad you're going on this trip Max - I could try to get you off women. Now there would be an actual challenge."

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Catacombs

Amanda was still trying to be friends with Seph, who was still suffering from her break-up hang-over. Alek was trying to play it super cool, but Haleigh wasn't falling for that. Mystique was being her usual, alluring self. Emiko settled into her own little world.

Maxine came swaggering in, and Haleigh tipped a friendly nod at her when their eyes met. Alice didn't much care for Maxine, but Haleigh found her to be very interesting, and quite enjoyable, something of a kindred spirit, give everything they had in common. Not to mention the woman had a hell of a chess game, and she wasn't twisted up in the politics of this place, which was so refreshing.

Maxine: So which of these little BRATS has stepped out of line THIS time?!

"Wasn't me. I've been a very good little girl lately."

She said with a wicked grin. She had managed to stay out of trouble. She was doing more than was asked or expected of her in almost every case. She didn't even get too much strife about her actions during the Nedry/Jake escape. She'd explained, quite reasonably, that it would'e been absolutely stupid to destroy her own company assets. Specially upgraded helicopter, personnel, and equipment, she'd been dealing with around $50 million in investments. She was, after all, a business woman. It was a multi-billion dollar company, and it didn't get that way by wanton waste of investments or capital. As for her one comment that revealed the destination of the boy? Trivial. Half the Birds knew that already. She hadn't revealed any top secret information. She'd just toyed with Orion a bit. She wondered if he still clung to the notion that she could be saved, or if that new girlfriend of his had convinced him otherwise.

Rave captured Haleigh's bird, and enhanced it. The King and Queens bantered back and forth a bit. Haleigh noticed Gia hadn't arrived yet, and she searched the club's surveillance for the White Bishop. She was about to stick up for the girl, and buy some time with an excuse, when Gia arrived. Good. The girl couldn't afford any more tardiness.

Alice arrived, and Haleigh bid her a fairly familiar 'Morning.' Ever since the deal with Malice re:Talisman, Haleigh and Alice had been spending more and more time together. Haleigh had a certain amount of respect and gratitude for Alice, not just because they'd been running combat drills together recently, keeping Haleigh sharp and helping to fill the time, but also because if it weren't for Alice, Haleigh surely would had died as a child. Not to mention the fact that if it weren't for Alice, she might not even have existed at all. It was surreal sometimes, being here at Hellfire. Haleigh really was starting to feel like she belonged.

That little brat, Jessica, came in with Alice. viper made a point to give Haleigh a dirty look. Haleigh flipped her a bird, and gave her a grin. Viper 'hmph'd and sat down with Alice. Malice opened the meeting handed it off to Rave, who discussed an upcoming trip of celebration and investigation.

Alice was named VIP, and Haleigh's gaze cut over to Kelly. The Black Queen showed no emotion, but Haleigh just knew she was annoyed by that. Strangely, Haleigh kind of felt bad for Kelly. She'd come from another timeline, and tried to settle into this one, but it was clear to anyone paying attention that it was being made difficult for her to do so.

Kelly just wanted the same respect and appreciation that the other Queens enjoyed, she just wanted to be acknowledged and accepted for her genius. And she WAS, in fact, quite genius. Haleigh'd discovered that much in the time she'd spent in Kelly's lab. If one could detach themselves from the suffering of Kelly's test subjects, which of course Haleigh could, one could easily see the brilliance of Kelly's experimentation.

Malice was naming off those would were invited to join the Queens and King on this little vacation of sorts. The Red Bishop, a couple of wildcards [Viper and Domino] and the Black and White Knights. Heidi looked pleased as punch to be the only member of the White Court to be going. Oh, that bitch loved being the White Queen's favorite. But, interestingly, the Red Knight was not going. Haleigh looked over at the Red Court. So the only two Reds left would be Alek and Seph. Fantastic. That would require a close watch.

Malice: SCION, you will be joining us as well.

Haleigh looked back at her mother with mild surprise, and then she offered a smile.

"My Queen, you honor me."

She said, and then her gaze shifted, and locked with Maxine's. Haleigh wondered what the mutate was thinking. Had she been momentarily looking forward to taking a break from watching Haleigh's every move? Or had she known Haleigh would be 'invited', and was trying to gauge her reaction? Domino was like a little mystery that Haleigh was determined to solve.

The Queens wrapped up the meeting with a little friendly advice. Seph practically evaporated, and Mystique straight disappeared. Maxine made a quip about a cash reward for anyone who could bed Seph. Hmm. Maybe Haleigh could talk to Gia, and pay the fee for the mafia princess' best escort. Her sister needed a rebound dick quick. Alek, wisely, implied he was uninterested in Maxine's indecent proposal. And yet, Haleigh hadn't missed his furtive glances towards Seph throughout the meeting. She had a bad feeling about this.

Haleigh turned to Heidi with a salacious grin. The White Knight was so elated to be going on this trip that her smile had barely twitched when Haleigh was also announced. In fact, she seemed to have brushed that off, and still had that smug smile and perfect posture. Haleigh simply could NOT resist.

"Heidi, looks like you and I are going to get to know each other even better. Don't you worry, I'll make SURE we have adjoining rooms, since you've been so concerned with my sexual satisfaction recently."

Heidi: In your DREAMS!

The White Knight spat hotly, trying not to seem unnerved. Haleigh couldn't enjoy it too much, because speaking of dreams, now she was seeing herself kill Cameron again. She wasn't sure if her mother was laughing in her head for real this time, or if that was just a memory too. She needed some fresh air. Still, it wouldn't do to visibly flinch, and so she didn't. Her grin morphed into a sweet smile, as she leaned closer to Heidi.

"Come now, we don't have pretend anymore, I tire of being so secretive. It's not like they won't all figure it out eventually. You KNOW there's no secrets in this place."

She replied suggestively, and then she inhaled deeply through her nose.

"Have I ever told you how wonderful you smell? Like coconuts and spiced rum."

Haleigh said, and Heidi seemed to be trying to decide whether she was still annoyed at Haleigh's deliberate implications, or flattered by her compliments and 'apparent' interest. Plus she was still attempting to pretend that Haleigh WASN'T pushing her buttons. In the end she just huffed and mentioned something about going to pack. Haleigh just smirked and watched her leave.

"Don't forget that little white lacy thing you know I like!"

She called after Heidi. Helena and Mystique did some business, and which Haleigh only mildly paid attention to. She DID, however, catch Helena's instructions for Mystique to be packed and ready by 'late this evening'. That was good news. Haleigh hardly required any time to pack. How hard did it have to be? Throw a bunch of clothes and toiletries in a bag. She'd need more time to decide which guns she wanted to take than which outfits. Still, that left plenty of time to shake off this stupid nightmare. She bid the Inner Circle a brief goodbye, said if she was leaving town then she had many errands to run, and headed to the garage.

Her Aston Martin purred on the way to Central Park, as if it were happy to be prowling around again. Haleigh parked at the tennis center, and walked over to the path that wound around the Jackie Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. She stopped to get a cup of coffee from a cart vendor, and then strolled on. It was a special kind of torture, this prison she'd forged for herself. She could leave at any time, go anywhere she wanted, do anything and anyone that interested her. Complete liberty, and still, she didn't feel free.

 

[Fathom]

The Hellfire Club -- Catacombs

Diana: Always a pleasure, Fathom.

Heidi dipped her head, as Diana greeted Scion much more curtly, to Heidi's amusement. Then Heidi turned, and smiled for her King. He was such a delight, and everything a King should be. He was certainly a far better King than that total TOSSER, Liam Forbes, over at the European Branch. Oh, how Heidi was looking forward to sneering at Liam and his little vamp Queen, Juliette.

Heidi watched suspiciously as Scion created and animated a little silver bird for Perle to play with. Trying to brown-nose her mother, no doubt. Lord Ravena captured the toy, and enchanted it, and Heidi smiled. He was so thoughtful and creative. There was some chatter as they waited for everyone to arrive. Maxine came in and was lively, as always. Heidi threw a 'hey' at her European friend.

Heidi secretly hoped Gia would be late again. Gia had gained some favor recently, and an upgrade from the Queen. She'd never even come CLOSE to Heidi in terms of power and prestige, Heidi was sure of that. But still, if she could continue to be a total mess, now that Scion had cleaned up her act, then at least Heidi knew she'd never have to worry that the mafia brat was getting ambitious. Unfortunately though, the White Bishop made it on time, and then she curtsied -- curtsied -- for the King.

What a suck-up.

Heidi thought, and then Alice and Jessica arrived. Heidi hadn't had much interaction with either of those, but Jessica seemed nice enough, especially when she dissed Scion. the White Queen got the meeting started, and the King was given the reins.

Even though she knew what this meeting was about, Heidi listened to Ravena intently. She enjoyed the hype for their trip, and knowing that she'd been picked for this already. Alice was named a guest of honor, and Heidi nodded respectfully. Diana shed a little light on why Alice had earned this, and Heidi of course paid attention. Anyone who had the Queen's favor must be worth their salt.

Heidi smirked when she was named on the short list of those who were going on the vacation. She wasn't quite so pleased to hear Scion would be going as well, but no matter. Surely the Queen just didn't trust her Princess to stay out of trouble while they were gone. The other Queens spoke too, and of course Heidi listened, despite the fact that the warnings and instructions didn't apply to her. Maxine made a joke about the White Princess' super slutty 'sister', and Heidi giggled, thinking that Maxine had better be prepared to pay at least a couple of people, because that would hardly be considered a challenge, based off what Heidi had heard lately about the old Goddess. And then Scion had to open her mouth.

Scion: Heidi, looks like you and I are going to get to know each other even better. Don't you worry, I'll make SURE we have adjoining rooms, since you've been so concerned with my sexual satisfaction recently.

"In your DREAMS!"

Heidi shot back. The NERVE of Haleigh, to twist the truth so wildly. But Heidi kept her cool. Nobody would believe the implications of the Princess. The Queen, at least, would know that Scion was just joking, with that strange lewd sense of humor she had.

Scion: Come now, we don't have pretend anymore, I tire of being so secretive. It's not like they won't all figure it out eventually. You KNOW there's no secrets in this place.

Heidi, though irritated by this nonsense, refused to show it. When she saw no one was buying what she was selling, Scion would get bored and move on to teasing someone else.

Scion: Have I ever told you how wonderful you smell? Like coconuts and spiced rum.

Heidi wasn't entirely sure if she wanted to glower at the Princess, or forgive her for at least having good TASTE. Heidi could understand why Scion wanted her so badly. She was astoundingly attractive, after all. HOWEVER.... she wasn't about to encourage the Princess' attentions.

"I'm going to finish packing."

She said, and tried to glide off before Scion could say anything else.

Scion: Don't forget that little white lacy thing you know I like!

She'd heard, right as the doors shut. How did SCION know about that?! Oh right, the cameras. The Princess was quite the voyeur, apparently. No wonder Scion was so obsessed with Heidi. She'd obviously liked what she'd seen. Heidi smirked to herself. She'd quite enjoy taunting the Princess. She'd absolutely never sleep with Scion, but that didn't mean she wouldn't drive the Princess to distraction, and keep her focused on chasing something she couldn't have. It would definitely serve to keep Haleigh from trying to do anything actually useful, which would keep her from rising too high in the King and Queen's regard.

 

[Lord Ravena]

The Queens commented after he sat. And, predictably, the Black Queen was upset and trying to hide it. Lord Ravena sat stone-faced as she pretended not to struggle through her remarks.

What did she want? She was a QUEEN of the Hellfire Club. A QUEEN. Automatically a guest of honor for the celebration and soon-to-be recipient of tokens of respect that could bankrupt small countries. Surely she was not so SMALL as to begrudge someone with no title a day to honor a lifetime of service to their endeavors? Or was she? Would he have to grovel like a dog at her feet to make her feel appreciated?

Lord Ravena did not move a muscle. Did not blink. He endured the pettiness of this woman to begrudge another's glory and remained silent. In another day and time he would have rendered her to dust, or made her a slave to his...baser instincts before allowing her to rot. But now was not the Dark Ages, and besides, she was still brilliant and pleasant to gaze upon when being her better self. This was, in the end, just a trifle.

As they dispersed, he chuckled as the Scion made Heidi uncomfortable with her advances.

"Don't forget that little white lacy thing you know I like!"

Still chuckling, the White King bid his farewells, joking to the trio of Queens that he was quite interested in what their eventual clothing choices would be. With a wink he exited the room and when Heidi opened the door of her suite, he was seated comfortably, rising and smiling as she walked in.

Aha! Heidi, my Knight, the blade of the White Court, a Carcharodon Megalodon in a sea full of whales! I trust you are excited to visit my home as my guest?

Lord Ravena walked over to Heidi, placing his hands on her shoulders, and looked into her eyes.

I will require your assistance on this trip. YOU are the liaison to my personal and military security forces. I want our stay to be perfect and in order for that to occur, I want everyone to be safe. That includes my people, my citizens. None of this group will want for anything, be it treasures or be it pleasures of the flesh and spirit. However, none of my citizens - NOT ONE - will live in fear of the members of this Court. NO ONE will be a victim to a Body Shoppe unless already condemned for a crime for which they have been convicted. NO ONE will be deemed to small to address their KING. I have leaders with my security and military forces that will meet with you in 43 minutes to discuss protocols. They are simple and easy, but I trust YOU alone to make certain that things are done properly and without needless distraction.

Lord Ravena placed his hand on her cheek and his gaze softened.

A man without his arms can adapt, can change his surroundings, can still be useful. But in the end, he is still a man without an arm. As long as you remain my arm, Heidi, you need not worry about anything. I do not intend to lose my arm for anything.

Lord Ravena kisses Heidi on her forehead. She can feel a tingle that moves through her body, radiating from the kiss, before settling in places she keeps hidden. He looks back into her eyes.

I will take my leave. If you need anything of me, I am never more than a call away.

Lord Ravena smiles as he simply fades away, leaving Heidi alone in her suite...

 

[Bishop]

Central Park

It was his lucky day.

He had only had to case the Hellfire Mansion for a few hours before Black Widow pulled out of it in one of her ostentatious cars. The specially fitted SUV he was in slid out into traffic and tailed her, revealing piece of luck #2: she was going to Central Park. If there was any place where one could get close to someone sight unseen, it was there.

He watched her head down onto the path, then pulled his car into a space near the tree line. He got out of the car, carrying a black bag with him as he moved the opposite direction on the path from that Haleigh had taken. He chose his position carefully: secluded, but with good cover and eyelines. And then he waited.

He had taken care to have no metal on him, no electronics that she could detect. Things had come together quickly, but still he had every detail planned. He was going to give that bitch exactly what she deserved. He had Alycia to thank for giving him the idea, that night she had given him that strong ass Amazon drink and they had talked almost like friends. Almost. And of course Ashley, so eager to make extra cash selling him weapons and gadgets, able to get anything he asked for, no questions asked.

Bishop loved the anticipation of that first strike, when your prey doesn't yet know you're coming, but you're locked on to them. Almost becoming one with them, feeling them breathe, move. But this time, his face contorted into a snarl as he saw her coming towards him. He wanted to wring her neck right now, but this was not the place for that. No, he would make sure she knew exactly what she'd done first.

He let Haleigh pass him before silently moving from his hiding place to stand behind her and raise the EMP wand. He brought it down as hard as he could onto Haleigh's head, sending electromagnetic energy coursing through her. Quickly with his other hand he brought the mask to her face. After a few seconds, he dropped the wand to catch her as she fell, unconscious.

"Please secure your own mask before assisting others."

He deadpanned as he looped the wide elastic over the back of Haleigh's head, holding the mask in place. Bishop lifted her, cradling her face to his chest, and disappeared back into the trees, cutting through the wooded area and emerging right at his SUV. He opened the back end and dumped her inside, switching the small oxygen canister filled with chloroform to the large tank that had been specially fitted into the back of the SUV. He pulled the restraints over her to secure her for the trip, and closed the back end.

He grinned, sliding into the driver's seat and turning the key in the ignition, but it was cold and without mirth - instead self satisfied and cruel. She was out for the count. No one else was the wiser. He could do whatever he wanted with her.

 

[Persephone]

The shades were drawn down the length of her floor to ceiling windows that lined across the far wall, making it seem like the perfectly sunny New York morning was in fact the middle of the night. It was only then that Persephone was finally able to fall asleep after days of little to no rest. She laid peacefully on her bed, still dressed in her meeting attire, the room quiet and still.


The corridor was dark--the entire Hellfire Club eerily quiet. Persephone stood in the middle of the Red Wing, the hallways abnormally longer than usually, as if it was never ending. The world around her seemed to echo as she slowly walked down the hall; reality warped in a hazy fog. She could heard a voice....faintly.....

"Hello?"

Persephone began to walk forward, the voice fading into the distance as she neared. She looked confused as she continued to walk down the abnormally long stretch of hallway.

“Hello!....Who’s there?”

The voice sounded familiar….so familiar. But she couldn’t figure out how—why she knew it. But something kept drawing her to it; to the sound—the feeling. Placing her hand along the wall, she began to hold herself steady against the seemingly warped world around her as she continued to cautiously walk forward; the voice now becoming louder. But as she got close, she realized it wasn’t just one voice…..but two. Persephone hesitated for a moment, stopping short as she felt a spike of irrational fear run throughout her body. Turning to look behind her, the hallway looked a mile long, warping into a dark endless path that she most definitely didn’t just come from. The world seemed to be changing around her with each step she took.

Turning back around, Persephone slowly took a step forward, then another, moving toward the voices once again. Finally….she saw a figure. It was large and massive, taking shape of a human…but with no distinctive features as it was facing away from her.


Persephone began to toss in her sleep, her breathing escalating as the dream continued. Her hand gripped the pillow as her face twisted in displeasure.


The figure didn’t move, and neither did Persephone. She stayed silent, hearing only the sound of two voices still conversing but unsure of what they were saying. The unnatural fear within her was escalated now, causing her to breathing to become hitched in her throat as the voices suddenly stopped.

Voice: “Persephone….”

The voice echoed causing Persephone took a step back away from it. But the figure was GONE right before her very eyes. Her breathing stopped as she stared at the empty hallway with confusion. She took another step back, knowing she needed to get away—the flight instinct taking over. That was when she hit something—SOMEONE.

GASP!

Persephone turned around, but before she could fully realize what was happening, the black mass SLAMMED her against the wall, pinning her there. A feedback of loud white noise began to deafen her causing her to wince in pain before finally her panicked eyes met with the faceless being.


Persephone began to vocalize her panic as her face buried into her pillow; her hands desperately clutching onto the blankets and bed around her.


Voice: “Persephone….”

She began to struggle, tears falling from her eyes as she looked at the horrific, terrifying faceless black mass hovering in front of her. She tried to push it back—FIGHT it—but she was PARALYZED and unable to defend herself. The mass remained there, unwavering; the deafening white noise building in a crescendo. Then finally, the faceless body PLUNGED it’s hand INTO Persephone’s chest causing her to SCREAM OUT in agony.


SCREAMING, Persephone clutched her own chest as her eyes tightly shut and tears fell down her temples.


As she screamed, the black mass ENTERED Persephone through her open mouth like a stream of opaque smoke with a mind of it's own. It disappeared INTO her BODY causing her to immediately start CHOKING and GASPING for air. Her eyes were wide with terror, her hands clawing at her throat as she tried to breathe. The being inside her ripping through her body like white hot fire.....


Mirroring her nightmare, Persephone’s screams were stifled by sudden gasps of air as she began to have a full fledged PANIC ATTACK, grabbing her throat as she bolted upright in her bed. Tears fell down her cheeks as more filled her terrified, wide eyes. She couldn’t breath, gasping frantically all while her body shook with tremors as she hunched over in her bed clutching at her chest.

 

[Fathom]

The Hellfire Club -- White Knight's Chambers

She didn't really need to finish packing. She'd already finished that, in her excitement, and everything she could get into her suitcases had been stowed on her yacht and sent ahead. But she did want to say goodbye-for-now to all her little pets, and remind the servant girl that if anything happened to any living creature in her Aquarium, there'd be a drowning when the White Knight found out.

She move down the White Hall fluidly and entered her chambers. To her delighted surprise, her King was waiting for her. He stood and greeted her with all the charm she knew him to possess.

Lord Rav: Aha! Heidi, my Knight, the blade of the White Court, a Carcharodon Megalodon in a sea full of whales!

"My King, with such flattery, you'll spoil me. Please, elaborate..."

She gave him a winsome smile as she drifted towards him. He was so debonair, Heidi felt a bit like she was under his spell.

Lord Rav: I trust you are excited to visit my home as my guest?

"Oh YES, quite. But where are my manners?! Can I get you a drink, or anything at all?"

She asked, snapping her fingers. A servant came scurrying into the room, but the King drew near to Heidi and laid his hands on her shoulders. She found herself captivated by his gaze, and she flicked her wrist, waving the servant off dismissively.

Lord Rav: I will require your assistance on this trip.

"Of course, of course, how can I be of service?"

She replied, with a hint of curiosity. He explained her task, and she nodded in eager acceptance. It was quite an honor to be given such responsibility, and that was not lost on Heidi at all.

"Your wish, my command."

She replied, as he reached to touch her face. He spoke of adapting if he needed to, but preferring that Heidi remain his 'arm', and assuring her that she needn't worry about anything, and that he didn't intend to lose her. Heidi gave him a genuine smile. It was actually good to hear him say that. Very few had ever been so protective of Heidi. He kissed her forehead, and it left her with a sensation she was pretty sure she should ignore. He had her locked in eye contact again.

Lord Rav: I will take my leave. If you need anything of me, I am never more than a call away.

He said, and faded away. Heidi released a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding.

 

[Berserker]

The Red Wing

Everyone had finally been released from the dog and pony show, and began to filter out of the Catacombs. It miffed him that he was being left behind - he ALWAYS traveled at Helena's side - but he would just have to show her how well he could run things while she was away. He knew Helena was punishing him, and unfairly, but he could survive her punishments and would come out on the other side stronger in his position with her. He made a mental note to speak with her before she went, to impress upon her the need to be careful. And not just from outside threats.

He slipped off his suit jacket as he neared his quarters, deciding absentmindedly if he should head to the gym first or get something sent up to eat while he went over reports. His hand reached for the doorknob, but his head turned and looked across the hall. Persephone really hadn't looked all that well. Maybe he should look in on her.

No.

If something was wrong, Helena should know about it.

No. She doesn't love me, never did.

He opened the door and took a step inside, when he heard a blood curdling scream. He dropped the jacket and rushed back into the hallway and across to Persephone's room.

"SEPH?"

He could hear her still screaming inside. He tried the door, and finding it locked, forced it open, breaking the door around the deadbolt. She was clutching at her chest, gasping for air but not getting any, in sheer panic. He was up behind her on the bed in a heartbeat, wrapping his arms around her, pulling her hands away from her chest and holding them down at her waist. He spoke at her ear.

"Seph, you're dreaming..."

She was still gasping for air, but there was nothing causing it that he could see, other than her own terror. He whispered soothingly to her.

"Shh...shh...you're alright...you're safe...I have you..."

He rocked her slowly, his face in her hair. He had forgotten how good she smelled...

"Breathe, just breathe."

He took deep breaths in and out with her, trying to show her, get her to slow her breathing.

 

[Wallflower]

:: Persephone regarded Cobra lightly, but it was better than nothing. The two had reached a deeper understanding a few days ago before The Red Wing exploded into a brawl and Cobra wanted to make sure The Red Rook knew that she didn't forget. ::

:: She listened as Ravena spoke of a trip overseas and to survey the new appointment on the european court. She had yet to know what to make of Ravena, it was clear that Talisman found him to be somewhat dubious, but Cobra didn't have the same status the Black Queen had to voice her displeasure. And Cobra was not stupid. It was clear that Malice had found a companion in Ravena, and Amanda enjoyed the favor she had with The White Queen. She intended to keep it that way. So even if she was unsure of him, she would not be voicing that opinion. Or even thinking it. ::

:: For a moment, Cobra wondered what kind of thunderdome like disaster scenario would occur while The Queens and The King were off on this trip, when suddenly. ::

Malice: "The others slated to travel on this trip are: Mystique, Viper, Domino, Cobra and Fathom."

:: That was a good sign. It meant she was doing something right. Her eyes wandered over to Alek for a moment, surveying his reaction. He was the only knight to not be in attendance. Perhaps he was still being punished for his relationship with Ava. ::

Malice: "SCION, you will come too."

"Hmm..so kittens really are CURRENCY in this place..noted!"

:: She was actually a bit interested to be in a more intimate setting with Scion. Talisman had made it clear that she was to keep an open line of communication with BOTH Ava and Haleigh to strengthen their court ties

Talisman: "Cobra, during our absence, it will be Gorgon entrusted to watch over things. You will need to give him a detailed debriefing of your roles and responsibilities. If he does well, perhaps I'll consider letting him live upstairs again."

:: Cobra fought the urge to vomit. Benjamin was the only other person living in the black wing and he was useless. Forced onto the black court by Mockingbird, it was already awkward. That and his senseless love for Cassandra Johnson. AND his sexual relationship with Talisman. Cobra thought she might have had an ally and what she got was some kind of household appliance, and she wasn't too keen on showing him what exactly she did, but she digressed. ::

"Of course, my Queen. Though I must say, I have yet to grow tired of his mindless whimpering."

:: Amanda was relieved that this meeting was more celebratory in nature. ::

Helena: "Don't fuck up. And enjoy the vacation."

"Here, here."

:: Domino piped in and did her normal abrasive and obnoxious postering, and like clockwork, she couldn't help but to taunt them a bit. This time her eyes were set on Alek. ::

Alek: "Too bad you're going on this trip Max - I could try and get you off women. Now there would be an actual challenge."

:: Amanda rolled her eyes a bit at the two of them and headed out of the catacombs and back to her book. ::

 

[Domino]

The Catacombs

:: Alek walked towards her. As a gender fluid creature of intrigue, Domino appreciated and encouraged The Red Knight's traditional displays of masculinity. It made her feel like a man, and she liked that feeling. ::

Alek: "Good thing I don't need the money. Why would I go somewhere I've already been when there's undiscovered territory around?"

:: He walked over and rested his elbow on her shoulder and Maxine cocked an amused eyebrow as he continued. ::

Alek: "Too bad you're going on this trip Max - I could try to get you off women. Now there would be an actual challenge."

:: Domino laughed. ::

"Hmm. Well you ARE wearing your hair a little billowy lately. Who knows, Alexandra. Perhaps you'd have a chance."

:: The two shared a steely and humorous glare for a moment as Alek and the others began to filter out of the room. It was now only The Queens and Maxine. ::

"I'd say it was a pleasure to see the three of you, but the only one of you I like is Diana, so.."

:: She curtseyed in an obnoxious manner. ::

"Nice to see you White Queen!"

:: Domino turned to face the other two queens. ::

"I will leave the two of you with a colloquialism I just learned in the states..What was it?"

:: She tapped her finger against her chin, feigning to be in thought. ::

"Oh yeah...Get Bent!"

:: Maxine sauntered out of the catacombs to god knows where. ::

 

[Persephone]

She heard nothing but her own heart beating rapidly in her ears as she hunched over in her bed, clawing at her throat and chest in an effort to breathe. She could barely get any air, like someone was choking the life from her. Her eyes were shut tightly with her hair curtained around her face as the moments of sheer and utter terror felt like a lifetime. The panic was all encompassing--something she had only felt a hand full of times in her LIFETIME. It was horrific....it was terrifying....the room felt like it was closing in around her, SUFFOCATING her. Tears fell from her eyes, and if she could have gotten the air intake to sob, she would have been. Everything around her was a slow symphony of panic causing her to not even hear Alek bust through he bedroom door and call her name.

It wasn't until she felt him behind her, wrapping his arms around her, that she realized someone else was in the room. She felt him pulling her arms down to her side, holding them there as he bear hugged her tightly. She couldn't speak words, but her mouth mimicked the words 'can't breathe' as she tried desperately to feel air fill her lungs.

Alek: "Shh...shh...you're alright...you're safe...I have you..."

She heard his voice whisper in her ear; his arms tightly around her as he gently rocked her back and forth. Her hands instinctively clutched at his forearms, gripping tightly as if she were trying to anchor herself to him and his words.

Alek: "Breathe, just breathe."

He began to take slow deep breaths, Persephone feeling his chest slowly rise and fall as she heard him inhale and exhale by her ear. Finally, she began to inhale shaky, short breaths, her body trembling against his as he continued to help ease her from the panic attack. Tears fell down her cheeks as she continued to clutch his forearms, her breathing finally becoming less rapid. It was then and only then she twisted her body around and wrapped her arms around Alek's neck tightly, her breathing becoming shaky cries as she gripped onto his shirt with one hand and the nape of his neck with the other as if they were sustaining her life. The only safety she felt.

"Don't...leave..."

She whispered, barely audible between labored breaths.

"Don't...let go..."

She repeated again, her eyes shutting tightly as she still felt the horrific, terrifying, helpless feeling from the dream weighing down on her--like it were still present with her even when awake.

 

[Berserker]

The Red Rook's Quarters

Persephone clutched at his arms as he tried to calm her, and slowly she started to breathe more normally.

"There...you see...it's all over...everything's going to be okay..."

His eyes widened in surprise then as she turned, her hands clutching him desperately. He saw the tear tracks down her cheeks, felt her shaking. Alek wrapped his arms tightly around her, hands on her back, holding her against him.

"Don't...leave..."

It came out so softly, with such effort, that he held her tighter, as if he could absorb her pain through his body. He moved one hand to cradle the back of her head.

"I'm not going anywhere."

Without thinking, he turned his face and kissed the side of her head. His hand stroked her hair slowly.

"Don't...let go..."

"I won't, I promise. I'll never leave you, little queen."

He wanted to make her stop hurting so much in that moment that he almost started to cry. He closed his eyes, feeling her still trembling against him. He rested his cheek on the top of her head.

"Just keep breathing."

 

[Persephone]

Alek: "There...you see...it's all over...everything's going to be okay..."

She heard his words, but they seemed false with intent. Everything in her body screamed that it wasn't going to be okay--that nothing was okay. A feeling of doom pressed down on Persephone's chest like a vice grip making her turn around and clutch at Alek with a tight hug. She didn't care what had happened in the past, about what Helena had said and threatened, the fight and false lies. None of that matter, because in that moment she just needed to feel safe, and he made her feel safe.

"Don't...leave.."

She managed to whisper through ragged breaths.

Alek: "I'm not going anywhere."

His hand want to her head, then she felt him kiss the side of her head causing her emotions to bubble over even more. Her face filled with pain as she buried it into the crock of his neck, still trying to steady her breathing. She didn't want him to let go, she managed to say as much. How he heard was her was anyone's guess, but he did. He held her tightly, her body still trembling within his arms.

Alek: "I won't, I promise. I'll never leave you, little queen. Just keep breathing."

Her hands still tightly gripped at his neck and shirt as she shut her eyes and tried to steady to breathing. Her lips were against his skin, her breathing slow and calculated as she focused on inhaling through her nose and exhaling out of her mouth. The minutes passed by quietly, only the slow steady sounds of breathing filled the dark chamber room of the Rook.

Finally, Persephone moved her face away from his neck, her hands loosening their grip. Her eyes remained closed as she pulled away from Alek, just enough for their cheeks to touched before she stopped. Her hand slid down the other side of his face as her lips parted by his beard instinctively wanting to touch them to his face, but hesitating. Finally, she pulled further back until she could see him fully now.

"Thank you."

She whispered, her eyes glassy with tears still as they met with his. No matter what had happened, she couldn't deny she felt safe with Alek. As powerful and ruthless and formidable of a woman as she was....she still had the need to want to feel safe. And he did that. Staring into his eyes, her hand gently ran down his beard. Blinking, tears fell down her cheeks as she moved to him, her lips meeting with his.

"I'm sorry..."

She whispered between the kiss.

"I'm sorry.....I love you...I love you..."

She repeated again and again, her voice cracking even with how softly she murmured the words against his lips while she kissed him.