A Weekend Affair # 4 - The Black Gala

[Seer]

The long afternoon had soon faded to evening, leading everyone to the much anticipated Black Party. As Ava had teased earlier during the Red Event, the Black Party was going to be a far more casual event with an upscale club-like dress code, emphasis on the risqué and chić.

The conservatory, which was normally a oasis amongst the concrete jungle of New York City, had been completely transformed into a sexy, black lit paradise [pic 1, pic 2, pic 3, pic 4,]. Throughout the space were contortionists, fire breathers, sword swallowers, and burlesque strippers. Hanging from tall window enclosed ceilings were silk and hoop workers. All the female servants wore black lace outfits with bondage styled eye masks [pic], while the men wore the same masks but with tight leather briefs. Exotic animals such as tigers, pythons, peacocks, and more were charmed and tamed by Ava, there as accessories to the party unlike the Red Hunt where they were there simply as game. Everything was a reflection of Ava's link to nature and wildlife but with the added hint of undeniable darkness that coursed throughout her veins. The ying and yang of Mother Earth and Queen of the Underworld.

Both American and European Branches would soon began to filter into the magnificent event, leaving Ava and John to arrive last for a grand entrance fit for royalty. The speakers vibrated and boomed loudly throughout the conservatory, playing electronic mix-like sexy music while an announcer made it a point to introduce every Inner Circle member, King, and Queen that would enter the event. It would be the grandest Black Party thrown since the popular Blackout Party made famous by their predecessors.

This was the Black Gala.

 

[Ruby]

Hellfire Club – Black Gala


:: Cass had just arrived to the Black Party. Originally, she hadn’t even been planning on coming; she had been planning on a night out at her club, XS, instead. Since she had made amends with Amanda [hopefully], however, she had decided that she would put in an appearance for her. She gazed around. It looked as if she were the first person there. She smoothed down her body-hugging red dress. Bretta had let her know earlier that she was now her Princess. ::

Oh well.

Announcer: "Please welcome the new Red Princess of the London Branch, Cassandra Johnson!"

You don't need to announce me if nobody is here!

:: Cass headed for the bar and sat down, ordering up a flute of champagne. ::

<< Cass didn’t see that somebody else had arrived a minute after she did, and that person just now spotted her. It was her new Rook, Damien McAllister, and her drew in a sharp intake of breath at the sight of her. Unknown to EVERYBODY, he had crossed paths with Cassandra long before now – long before she was even known as Cassandra Johnson. Back when he first saw her, she went by a different name...her ORIGINAL name of Bryda Jesko. Yes, Damien had been part of the Allied forces that had liberated the lab in which Bryda had been held. >>

<< Bryda had made quite the impression on him, in fact, he had IMPRINTED on her when he first saw her, when she ran up to one of his female colleagues working in the area. Bryda had been extremely emaciated and pantsless but she had been running as if she had always been an athlete [due to her powers finally manifesting themselves during an attempted rape and accidentally-on-purpose draining everyone in her path to freedom] instead of a malnourished prisoner of war. >>

<< Damien saw Bryda again at a hospital set up by the Allied forces. She was in a room full of female Holocaust survivors but she was the only one sitting up in bed and uncontrollably shaking. He went to see what the matter was when he was stopped by a fellow soldier. >>

Joseph: “Aye, I wouldn’t bother with that lass, mate. She HATES blokes like us.”

<< Damien had known this, because he had read the reports on her. She had suffered physical and sexual assaults and abuse and she was mentally and emotionally scarred. >>

“I hope that she’ll be okay. You can tell that she’s beautiful.”

Joseph: She’ll be damaged for quite some time, the wee thing.”

<< A month and a half later - after learning some English - Bryda just upped and left the hospital without giving notice to anybody. Damien still found her, though. He kept himself to the shadows and anonymously helped Bryda when needed and followed her all throughout Europe. He helped her and he watched over her as she brought her version of vengeance and justice down on former Nazis and Nazi sympathizers. >>

<< Months and months later, they both made their way to England where Damien still watched out for Bryda from the shadows as she changed her name to Cassandra Johnson and created a new life for herself there. He made the decision to reveal himself to her but by then...it was too late. MysTech had also been made aware of Ruby and they, too, had been keeping a close eye on her. Cassandra was out for a walk when MysTech made their move. Damien called out her name but in that moment, when she paused after hearing an unfamiliar person calling for her, MysTech captured her and stunned him when he tried to help. He had missed his chance. So for weeks he plotted his attempt to free Ruby when HE got captured by MysTech as well! By then, of course, Ruby had been transported to the American MysTech. Damien became an agent of MysTech, a soldier, if you will, and he was sent out on all kinds of missions for them. He never forgot about Ruby, however, and so he joined the European Hellfire Club in an effort to locate her whereabouts...although, he DID appreciate everything that Hellfire had to offer! :garrick: >>

<< Now he was going to meet Ruby for the very first time – a meeting seventy years in the making. He was ready. >>

Announcer: "Please welcome the Red Rook of the London Branch, Damien McAllister!"

:: Cass wasn't paying any attention to what the announcer was saying. Cass was handed her flute, she held it aloft. ::

*dryly*: “A toast to the new Red Princess. May she live a long and prosperous life.”

:: A British voice sounded out from behind her. ::

Damien: “That’s a toast that I can get behind.”

:: Cass turned her head and watched as a male someone sat down beside her. When he turned to face her, Cass felt it. It wasn’t love at first sight, no; it was actually more intimate than that. It was as if everything was at a standstill and nothing else mattered except for...him?! Cass felt off-balanced and confused. She had never felt this way about Ben. ::

Oh! There you are. Of course!

:: The guy smiled joyfully at her. ::

Damien: *satisfactorily*: “You’ve just imprinted on me, haven’t you?”

“I...what?”

:: A hesitant look came over his face and he held out his hand. His voice was filled with apprehension. ::

Damien: “I’m Damien McAllister, your new Rook. I would like some of what she’s having as well. Thanks.”

:: Cass took his hand in hers and shook it. She smirked at him. ::

*playfully*: “What makes you think I’m not the new Princess of the American Red Court?”

:: They both smirked at each other. A devilish grin lit up his face. Cass noted that he was extremely attractive. He had dark hair and blue eyes just like Ben, which made her wonder if MysTech had some sort of factory over in England. ::

Damien: “Aren’t you a naughty kitten? I have the inside track with Bretta O’Malley, Your Highness.”

:: Cass watched as his flute of champagne arrived and he picked it up in a very sensual manner. Cass was fascinated. So this was the incubus. Cass licked her lips as Damien turned his gaze back onto her. ::

Damien: “Back to the toast, love. May she definitely live a long and undoubtedly prosperous life.”

“Cheers to that.”

:: Their glasses clinked together in a toast. Cass couldn’t keep her eyes off of him, which he seemed to like, judging by the way his whole face lit up as he smiled at her. He leaned in until his lips grazed her ear. ::

Damien: *whispering in Polish*: “Patrzysz piękne, kochanie.” [You look beautiful, honey]

:: Cass was shocked at the sound of her native language. He pulled back, quite pleased with himself. He looked shyly at her. ::

Damien: “I learned that, just for you.”

*shyly*: "Thank you."

:: Cass looked down as she blushed. It was really nice of him to have learned to say something in Polish just for her. Not many people have been kind to her lately. She cleared her throat. ::

“Are you hungry?”

:: Cass switched topics as she got off the stool and took her champagne. She gestured to the tables by some cool-looking plants. They were filled with all kinds of delicacies. ::

“I am. I missed lunch and dinner.”

:: She wrapped her arm around Damien’s and they headed over to a booth tucked away in the corner where they set down their glasses and headed for the food. Picking up some plates, they began to scoop up some food. ::

Damien: “Lots of Greek food...”

“Yep. Now I don’t even need to visit Greece.”

Damien: “So catty, Cassandra, so catty.”

:: Cass gave him a mischievious smirk. ::

Damien: “I like it.”

:: He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close as they both went back to the booth with their food. Setting down his plate, he glanced over at Cass. ::

Damien: “So...how do you really feel about being the Red Princess?”

:: Cass paused and looked at him. Nobody had asked that of her. Not even Mandy, whom she had only just reconciled with. She cocked her head and gave the question some thought. ::

“To be honest...I don’t know.” *chuckling*: “Nobody asked me that. Bretta hadn’t, and neither did my sister...”

Damien: “You have a sister?”

[laughing] “We’re not...biologically sisters. We used to be so close and then...we weren’t. Let’s just say that there had been a series of unfortunate events that resulted in us drifting apart.”

Damien: *teasingly*: “Whatever you say, Lemony Snicket.”

:: Cass laughed and then grew serious. ::

“We just reconciled today, so that’s good. Back to your question though; I feel good about it, because it seems like you all want me there – at least, according to Bretta that is. However, I also feel sadness because this Branch has been my home, my family, for a long time. I mean, I haven’t really been myself in recent years and so because of that...people tended to stay away from me. They were still my family, though.” [tears shining in her eyes] “I’ve also made some incredible friendships during my stay here, and I don’t want to give them up.” *weepy*: “So I’m also feeling some grief as well.”

:: Chuckling, she wiped her eyes with her hand. ::

“Don’t worry; I’m also feeling excited and hopeful about the future.”

:: Damien placed a hand on her shoulder and smiled at her. ::

Damien: “That’s what I like to hear. Faith and I want to have a bit of a celebration with you next weekend. Nothing too fancy, just a little ‘welcome to England and the Red Court’ sort of thing.”

:: He leaned closer, his lips to her ears. ::

Damien: *whispers*: ”There might even be presents.”

:: He pulled back and wrapped his arm around her waist. Cass laughed as he pulled her closer and kissed the top of her head. ::

“I like presents.”

:: They both grinned before tucking in to their food, laughing and joking as they both playfully snatched food from each other’s plates. It was a nice surprise that Damien was here. Sure, Bretta liked her and she had a rapport with her, but she was also Queen. Damien was the Rook and while Bretta was doing business, he could keep her company. Besides, Cass already felt a certain closeness with him as well. ::

 

[Persephone]

The meeting with Bretta had gone more smoothly than even Ava had anticipated. After a bumpy start with the European Red Court, Ava had laid it all out for Bretta, telling her exactly why Ava wanted this trade and how it would benefit both courts in the long run. And on top of all that, Ava and John gained an ally at the London Branch in the form of the Red Queen AND court. It was a success all around. After a few celebratory drinks with Bretta, both Ava and John left the meeting to meet with Ben to inform him of the shift within the court. He was now the Black Rook while Daniel would be placed in the position of Black Bishop. Ben seemed excited at the prospect of becoming more of the enforcer and be able to flex his abilities a bit more. After learning secrets about his father and his new extended family, it seemed as if Ben wanted a change all around - to show everyone exactly who Goliath was. After meeting with Ben, both Ava and John then met with Amanda. Ava wanted to make sure that Amanda understood that with this shift it meant she would eventually be appointed Black Princess leaving the Knight position open. This would not happen for a few weeks, blatantly telling her it was because of her actions earlier that day. BUT, it WOULD happen. Amanda Soto would become Black Princess as Ava had envisioned since day one of her Queenship. Lastly, Ava and John met with their new Bishop, Daniel. Ava wanted to make sure that he understood by coming into her court he would be loyal to them and their cause. The Helena situation was the past and they were all now the future. The American Black Court had made substantial moves against the European Black Court and she needed to make sure that Daniel and his relationship with Brienne wouldn't stand in the way of his duties. But she also made it a point for him to understand that with loyalty came rewards. He would be treated with respect, trust, and value. He would be Ava and John's eyes and ears. He would be an extremely important piece in their game. The change was sudden and quick, but the new Black Court was now stronger than ever, and they would show that at the Black Gala.

It was nearly time for Ava and John to make their way down to the event. Ava had informed security to call their room and let them know once everyone had arrived at the party. The last thing she wanted was to be first to her own event again. Plus, it let her and John relax a bit before having to play hosts. Ava had her outfit hanging up against the closet door, still wearing her black silk robe as she finished putting on some matte nude liquid lipstick. Ava's eyes were lined black and smokey while her hair was parted to the side and smooth back behind her ears [pic].

"I can't believe everything is finally as it should be."

Turning from the vanity to look at John, Ava smiled with a radiance and levity she hadn't felt in what felt like forever.

"This is the Black Court I envisioned since day one."

Walking up to John, she smoothed her hands up his chest until her arms were wrapped around his neck. Tilting her head back with a smile as she looked up at him, she raised to her tip toes so her lips grazed his.

"With you by my side."

Ava pressed her lips against John's, deepening the kiss and melting into his arms. It was time to celebrate, Ava finally looking forward to the start of her event.

 

[Steel]

The Black King & Queen's Suite

John had moved from meeting to meeting with Ava, pleased to see her so happy and self-assured. A weight had clearly been lifted from her, so much that he couldn't even object to Ava telling Amanda that she would eventually be named princess. He thought she should have to sweat it out until she proved her worth, but Ava would not allow Amanda to swing in the wind like that, and he didn't protest.

The court felt more cohesive than it had in months, and John was actually looking forward to the event that evening and the chance to show it off. As well as showing off Ava. She wanted them to arrive last at the party, and so would very much make an entrance. He dressed in their bedroom, watching Ava do her hair and makeup. She was beautiful without any of it, but when she put it on, it was like armor. She became even more powerful looking and confident.

"I can't believe everything is finally as it should be."

She turned around to smile at him, and he was bowled over by how lovely she looked.

"This is the Black Court I envisioned since day one."

She came to him, her hands coming around his neck. He put his hands on her arms, stroking her skin gently and smiling down at her as she leaned up to kiss him.

"With you by my side."

"Always."

She kissed him again more deeply, and he could taste her lipstick. His arms circled around her waist.

"Much more of that and we'll miss the party."

He nuzzled her neck, enjoying the feel of her body entwined around his. When he picked up his head to look at her again, however, there was concern there.

"Ava - I want you to stay close to me tonight. We don't know what the reaction will be to what happened earlier."

An attack could come from Brienne, or Archer, or both.

"And we'll want to keep Ben with us when he's not with Brienne as well."

 

[Masque]

Hellfire Club – Black Gala


After she threw Heidi for a loop that completely mystified the Knight, Gia quietly ate her salad and then left the tent and headed for the stables where she got Brownie all saddled up and went for a ride. The ride was invigorating and she made a mental note to try and visit Arklay more often. She loved riding, but because of her commitments to both the Nefaria organization and Hellfire, she hadn’t been able to get away as often as she’d like.

She had thought about what Daniel had said and he was right; there was no room to half-ass it anymore. If she did continue on the path she was going down, she would die. She had been playing a very dangerous game, and it had taken somebody’s head exploding all over her to realize it.

Galloping back to the stables, Gia made the decision to turn over a new leaf – which was why she was polite to both Heidi and Jack. After she cooled Brownie down and fed him some oats and carrots, Gia made her way down to the little train station and headed back to Hellfire for a much needed nap.

Upon awakening from her nap, which made her feel better and refreshed, Gia got ready for that night’s gala. She picked out a white bandage dress with a pair of silver heels and then the stylists came to do her hair and makeup. It was then that she heard the news about Cassandra being the new Red Princess of the London Branch. Gia felt wistful when she heard, and made a mental note to attempt to make amends for what she did to her dog just that morning. Also, a tiny bit of her thought that if she could make up with Cass, if she could somehow form a proper friendship with the new Princess, she could gain an alliance with the European Red Court for her Court. The ERC may seem like the weakest link, but Gia knew that, with a partnership with both Haleigh and Cameron, the ERC would undoubtedly thrive and gain some ground with the rest of the European Hellfire Branch.

Now she entered the conservatory, ready to face whatever would happen that night. She had to hand it to Ava; the girl really knew how to throw a party.

Announcer: “Please welcome the White Bishop of the American Branch, Giuletta Nefaria!”

“Yeah, yeah.”

Gia heard clapping and turned to see Cassandra and her new Rook grinning at her from across the way. Cassandra looked fabulous. She made her way over to their booth, getting in beside Damien.

“Cassandra. I heard the news about you moving to London. Congratulations. You look amazing in that dress.”

Cass: “Thank you, Gia. You look fabulous as well.”

Damien: “Your tragic loss is our greatest gain, Miss Nefaria.”

Gia couldn’t speak. She knew that he was an incubus, but when he turned his stark blue eyes on her... whoa.

Cass: “Gia, I’d like to formally introduce you to my new Rook. This is Damien McAllister. Damien, this is Gia.”

Gia could feel her heart beat faster as Damien took her hand in his. She could’ve swooned.

Damien: “It’s my pleasure to meet you, Gia.”

Was it her imagination or did he emphasize the word ‘pleasure’? When Damien kissed her hand softly, Gia swore that she could feel herself getting a bit wet. The Rook let go of her hand and Gia took a moment to gather herself together. She did wonder briefly what it would be like to have a threesome with both a succubus and an incubus...

“Nice to meet you too, Damien.”

REALLY nice.

She shook her head gently. What the hell was she thinking? She cleared her throat.

“So, Damien, you’re wearing all black with just a red t shirt under your jacket. Shouldn’t it be the other way around?”

Damien laughed and smiled at Cassandra before turning to her.

Damien: “Cassandra, here, was asking the very same thing. I told her that it was my homage to the Black Court tonight since this is their event. She, however, said that was bollocks.”

Cass: [laughing] “Because it’s true! That answer is bullshit.”

Gia studied the two. They looked really good together. What was even more surprising was that Cass was acting like her normal self, as if she had never been insane in the first place. Gia discreetly got out her phone from her clutch and texted this new piece of information to her King and Queen as a heads up.

“So, Cass, when is the big move?”

Cass: “Um, I think Monday? I’ll leave with everybody else, but luckily Bretta gave me permission to skip out on some of the events tomorrow in order to get things ready for when I leave. I’ll definitely be at the Red party tomorrow night though. My suite is a complete mess right now with all the boxes and trunks, so I think that I’ll be staying in Bretta’s suite tonight.”

Monday. Okay, this would be good. Gia already had an idea on how to make amends with Cassandra. She got out her phone again and discreetly texted something to an unknown person: Send pckge to CJ c/o RC EUHC. All systems a go.. There, that was better. Plans were now figuratively and quite literally on the move.

“Well, I hope to see you before you leave.”

Cass smiled and Gia felt some hope that all would be well.

Cass: “Thank you, Gia, that means a lot.”

Gia nodded and then bid them adieu before she headed for the bar to get a drink. She sat there, tapping her feet along to the music that was playing.

 

[Persephone]

Ava smiled up at John as she wrapped her arms around his neck, her lips finding his in a deep kiss. For the first time in a very long time Ava felt content with her court. She had a group that she trusted and whom were loyal to her. She had a King who was respected and liked by all, but more importantly who loved and supported her unconditionally. It was the court she had wanted since the beginning and now Ava was ready to celebrate the night away.

John: "Much more of that and we'll miss the party."

John began to nuzzle her neck making her grin.

"Nooo...we'll be late if anything."

She countered with a sexy giggle. But John then lifted his head causing Ava to look up at him. She was expecting that glint of need in his eyes, all to willing to give him exactly what they both wanted. But instead there was concern, causing Ava's brows to furrow and her smile to fade.

"What is it?"

John: "Ava - I want you to stay close to me tonight. We don't know what the reaction will be to what happened earlier. And we'll want to keep Ben with us when he's not with Brienne as well."

Archer. He was concerned about her attack on Archer, whom Ava hadn't heard a peep from since Amanda had taken him out and stolen Sub Zero. Ava gave John a gentle smile as her fingers softly scratched the back of his neck.

"First of all....I wasn't planning on leaving your side all night."

She started, her smile growing in an effort to ease his tension. But she knew his concerns were valid, causing her face to become more serious. If Archer learned about what truly happened to him, and Brienne backed him? They would both be very dangerous.

"Archer and Brienne would be fools to attempt an attack on me at my own party within my own club. Not a single American Inner Circle member would stand for that, including Alek."

For the most part, Ava was on solid terms with every Inner Circle member. Yes, she was closer to some more than others, but when push came to shove, they would stand for the Black Queen if an attack was eminent. The only member she ever truly had issues with was Alek, and that seemed to be settling a bit since the Red Hunt.

"They would be dead within minutes."

Still, Ava knew John well enough to know he wouldn't be happy unless she was with him at all times; or at least within looking distance. Honestly, it didn't bother Ava in the slightest. This was their event and she wanted to be with him at all times. She wanted to celebrate with her new King and her new court. Tonight was more than just a party thrown for the Europeans, it was a party for the rebirth of the Black Court.

"But if it makes you feel better, i'll be glued to your side all night your majesty."

She grinned.

"And when I say all night...."

With her arms still wrapped around John's neck, Ava jumped up and wrapped her legs around his waist with a laugh, monkeying herself to him.

"I mean all night."

Her playful grin fade as her eyes locked with John's, the undeniable look of love within them. Her heart fluttered even then from how he looked at her - like no one else in the world existed. Ava dipped her face down and pressed her lips against his, slowly yet deeply kissing him. Their tongues intertwined in a sexy dance, Ava gripping herself tighter against John. Then finally, she broke the kiss, their faces still close.

"I love you, my King."

 

[Steel]

The Black King & Queen's Suite

John told Ava to keep close to him at the event tonight, in case Archer or Brienne tried any reprisal for what Ava had done earlier in the day. He couldn't just let himself enjoy her company, he was always thinking of how to keep her safe, of what might hurt her. She was confident, and strong, and she wouldn't think there was danger, not from someone like Archer.

"First of all....I wasn't planning on leaving your side all night."

He smiled, her fingers on the back of his neck making his skin tingle.

"Archer and Brienne would be fools to attempt an attack on me at my own party within my own club. Not a single American Inner Circle member would stand for that, including Alek."

He stroked the hair at her temple, gazing into her face.

"Brienne is not completely stable. And what others would stand for is well and good, but I'm concerned about what might happen to you."

"They would be dead within minutes."

"Yes."

He said solemnly.

"They would."

"But if it makes you feel better, i'll be glued to your side all night your majesty."

"It would."

"And when I say all night...."

Her grin made him smile too. He could be watchful enough for both of them. She jumped up, surprising him, her legs wrapping around his waist. His smile widened, laughing at her.

"I mean all night."

God, he loved her. She was like a magnet, always pulling him in her direction. His skin tingled just by being near her. She kissed him, and it was like a supernova exploding between them.

"I love you, my King."

"I love you Ava, my perfect Queen. I wouldn't change a single thing about you."

He kissed her softly, and carried her over to the bed. It was their party, they could be late, after all. He set her down, then started to remove his clothes, slowly, for her. Then he climbed onto the bed, kneeling facing her, and pulled her into a long, slow kiss. He opened the small black robe, and pulled her against him, so their bodies interlocked. His mouth kissed her perfect breasts, his hands stroked her soft thighs. He explored every inch of her with his body, his hips already beginning to move in anticipation of having her.

In a quick motion he shifted position, opening her legs and bringing her to him so he knelt between them and she laid back onto the bed. He watched her as he entered her, his eyes closing only for a moment as he reached as deep as he could. And then he started to move quickly, taking her, his hands finding hers and interlocking their finger. He wanted to see the pleasure on her face, the ecstasy he was able to bring to her, after all these years of waiting.

 

[Persephone]

Ava wasn’t too worried about Archer and Brienne trying to take her out at her own event tonight. Likely Archer didn’t even realize Sub Zero was out of his control, and judging from how much him and Brienne liked to party, they were likely already high or drunk.

John: “Yes. They would.”

John said solemnly making Ava frown. He was so different than her, but in all the best possible ways. He would kill without hesitation if ordered, or if he needed to protect her. But otherwise he didn’t have that bloodthirst other did. Ava gently caressed his cheek.

“Babe...”

She whispered between them, her eyes softer as they locked with his. Ava promised that she would stay by his side all night if it would make him feel better. He agreed, and Ava took the opportunity to cut the tension by jumping into his arms with a laugh, saying she would be with him ALL night long. Her lips met with his for a deep kiss before pulling back to whisper her love for him.

John: “I love you, Ava. My perfect Queen. I wouldn’t change a thing about you.”

Ava smiled at that, thank him with another kiss, this one with a much more heated intent. John carried her over to the bed and laid her down, slowly taking off his black suit. Ava felt a little bad that he had gotten all dressed only to have to undress once again, but her dark eyes surveyed every inch of him as he stripped, thoroughly enjoying the show. Biting her bottom lip as John’s hands began a path along her body, she arched her back as his mouth took her breasts, softly moaning and holding him there to savor the feeling.

“John...”

She breathlessly moaned, her body flushed with desire. He pulled her to him, Ava’s back presses against the mattress and eyes hooded as she watched him go between her legs. The moment he entered her, pushing himself as deep as he could go, Ava expelled a gasp like moan while grasping at his forearm. It was electric the second they were connected, the feeling showing on her face as John watched her. Then he began to fuck her fast, grabbing her hands and linking their fingers together. Ava cried out instantly at the sudden feeling, gripping his hands tightly as he pinned her down with his body. She couldn’t kee her eyes open any longer, rolling them shut in utter pleasure. He was taking her to her limit fast, his body knowing hers like no other.

“Fuck...right there...don’t stop...”

Ava lifted her head, her mouth biting the soft flesh of John’s neck as she managed to get one of her hands free to wrap her arm around him. She gripped him tightly, her legs circling his back. And finally she felt herself free fall into pleasure, coming hard against him in a crescendo of moans.

 

[Steel]

The Black King & Queen's Suite

The way Ava said his name brought something animalistic out in him. He wanted her so much it was like a drug. A drug he had waited fifteen years to have.

He could feel how much she wanted him in return, and he wasted no time. His pace quickened when she wrapped her arm and legs around him, bringing him down to press against her chest. He felt her tense and release, her body shaking under his. His gravelly voice whispered in her ear as he slowed his strokes.

"I love the way it feels when you come..."

His mouth went to the crook of her neck as he increased his pace once again, thrusting hard against her, again and again until he shuddered and came with a groan. He began to kiss her, first her neck, then her face, and finally her lips. He moved off of her, but pulled her into his arms, putting his head on the pillow next to her. His hands stroked her back as he looked into her eyes.

"I will always protect you. I will never hurt you."

He kissed her lips softly. And then the smallest hint of a grin came to his lips.

"And I'm sorry for messing up your hair."

He kissed her again, his smile widening, one hand sliding down to grasp the cheek of her ass.

"How long do we have to stay at this party again?"

 

[Persephone]

Ava's body trembled beneath John's, the wave crashing over her and dragging her into the depths of pleasure. It was overwhelming how amazing he made her feel, not only physically but emotionally. The difference between just fucking someone and making love to them was something Ava was new to, and she never wanted to be without it - without him.

John: "I love the way it feels when you come..."

Fuck....Ava's eyes rolled shut at his words and the sound of his gruff voice. The need that came from him; his tone laced with desire. She gripped his back and extended her neck back as his mouth claimed her neck, rolling her hips slowly to meet with his. Then his thrusts became rapid once again and the air caught in Ava's throat, causing her to gasp out with a cry. Their hips collided again and again until finally she felt John shudder above her and come. John's lips trailed across her skin softly causing her to softly whimper at the feel of him - of his love. The moment their lips met Ava grasped his face, holding him there to savor the kiss. But finally, John moved off her, pulling her into his arms.

John: "I will always protect you. I will never hurt you."

Ava looked at him, gently shaking her head.

"There was never any doubt in my mind."

Gently trailing her fingers down his cheek. It was then a grin crept along his lips causing Ava to slowly smile in anticipation as to what he was about to say.

John: "And I'm sorry for messing up your hair."

Chuckling, she shrugged.

"A little comb and some hairspray and i'm good to go."

Welcoming John's kiss, Ava let out a little laugh as his hand traveled down to her ass, staking claim there.

John: "How long do we have to stay at this party again?"

"Considering we're throwing it....i'd say a while."

She wrinkled her nose.

"But that doesn't mean we can't sneak away once everyone's had a few drinks."

It was Ava's turn to grin widely before kissing him, her tongue pressing deep into his mouth as she pulled herself closer against him. She was fully ready for round number two when she heard her phone vibrate on the nightstand. Ava ignored it, not caring who it was. She continued to kiss John, her hand moving down his chest and stomach until the phone started vibrating again. Groaning, she realized it was probably security calling them up to tell them everyone had arrived at the party already as ordered. Breaking their kiss, she sighed as she rolled onto her back and reached across the bed to answer the call.

"Yes?"

It was security, but they weren't calling about the party. Apparently they were outside the chamber room doors with a package for Ava.

"Yes, come in through the living room."

Hanging up the phone, Ava sat up and climbed out of bed, looking over her shoulder at John.

"Security has a package for me."

Wrapping her discarded robe around herself just as security knocked on the bedroom door, Ava opened it to see one of the guards standing with a small package and card in his hand. He bowed his head respectfully, holding it out for Ava to take. Ava shut the door, her eyes never leaving the card within her hand. She slowly turned around to face John, her brows creased as she looked at the beautiful cursive writing that said 'Ava' - the handwriting all too familiar to her.

"It's from my father..."

Looking up at John with a surprised expression, this was the last thing she was expecting. She literally hadn't heard from her father since they overthrew the old leadership. Holding the small box within her hand as she used her fingers to open the card, Ava read it silently for a moment before finally saying the words out loud.

"My beautiful daughter. For you, a gift from the God's. All my love, patéras [father]."

Ava's eyes lifted to John as she handed him the card to examin. She then looked down at the small box, flipping open the lid to reveal a beautiful diamond ring with Grecian leaf designs. Her mouth parted at how beautiful it was, still in shock that after all this time her father broke his silence by gifting her this ring tonight. She stared at it for a few long moments silently before finally sighing out, unsure of how to even react.

"This is....unexpected."

She murmured before sitting on the edge of the bed, still holding the ring box within her hands. Ava finally looked over at John, a bit unnerved and at a loss for words. She loved her father, but the world she now lived in had little room for the 'old powers' that once ran Hellfire. Stavros had been her life for so long, and now that life had changed.

 

[Savage]

Arklay -- Lawn

They laid down in the hay and snuggled until AJ’s stomach growled loudly enough to prompt Ash to insist they get something to eat. Most everyone was gone, so they had a quiet picnic on the lawn before taking the last helicopter back to Hellfire. They kissed hungrily during the flight, but she wouldn’t let him get any further.

Not until they got back, and shared a bath. They took their time washing each other off, requiring a tortuous amount of restraint on Savage’s part, because of course as soon as he started to touch her he wanted to have her again. She didn’t discourage him, though, and by the end of it they’d splashed half the water out of the tub and onto the floor, but neither of them cared.

They dried off and cuddled up in bed together, and soon AJ had fallen asleep. He was dreaming of leading the pack on a run through the forest, and didn’t notice when she slipped out of bed. It was her return that woke him up. At first he sleepily pulled her closer, on the edge of falling back to sleep. Then he smelled the little bear, and he jolted awake with a growl in his chest. He looked around, ready to spring into defense, but Alek wasn’t here. He looked back down at Ashley, and realized she had brought the scent in.

“My Queen.... you have been with the ‘King’?”

He asked warily, sitting up against the headboard.

 

[Berserker]

The Mansion

Alek hadn't gone to either of the Black Queens, like he had told Ashley he was going to. Instead he left, walked right out the front door, not bothering to take a car or call a driver. He felt like he was in a cage, suffocating. He had to get out.

He walked south, noticing little of what was around him. Keeping inside his own head. Everything from that day playing again in his mind. Ava's caution, Haleigh's admission, Ashley's revelations. Everything was changing, and he would get lost in it if he didn't act. So he'd agreed to put on a happy face with Ashley in public. If she really did back him in private he needed to keep her support. And seeing her dog wearing a leash was reward enough for that. Plus, now that he knew how much power he had to hurt her, he could always use it to get whatever else he wanted from her. He also knew Ashley & Ava had been fighting, and that Ava disapproved of Savage's behavior as much as he did. If he made a show of making an effort, he would have her support as well.

And then there was Haleigh. It hurt him more than he wanted to admit that she hadn't backed him to oversee Nefaria. Assuming Ashley wasn't lying. But he knew her: she didn't lie. She usually knew exactly what truth was the greatest weapon, and she used it. She had no reason to lie, because he could easily have discovered the truth if she did. That Haleigh didn't believe in him hurt more than the way the others had looked down on him for so many years. And even hurt, he couldn't hate her. He could only hate himself.

He found himself blocks from the mansion, at a shop he had passed thousands of times. But this time he went in, watching the people around him, the joy they had. And he wondered if he ever would feel anything like that himself, or if he was just doomed to this prison until someone finally did manage to kill him. Ashley felt sorry for him, he thought. After everything. And it made him angry. He was strong. If he was anything, he was that. And he knew how to survive. How to make a purpose for himself out of nothing. Out of a shit childhood and shittier parents who left him with nothing. He'd be damned if he'd let them make him feel weak.

When he left the store, there was a box under his arm, and he headed back to the mansion. By the time he had delivered it, he felt much more himself, and by the time he knocked on Brienne's door with a bottle of hemlock - the good stuff - he was ready to party.

 

[Steel]

The Black King & Queen's Suite

He didn't want to stop touching her, even after they'd both finished. He even considered using his powers for a little extended up time, but instead decided that having her close was enough. For now. He did ask how long they had to stay at the party, because maybe they could make an appearance and then slip away. When she looked at him that way she had, it wouldn't take him long to be ready.

"Considering we're throwing it....i'd say a while. But that doesn't mean we can't sneak away once everyone's had a few drinks."

His mouth was kissing her chest again.

"To a dark corner where no one will find us?"

Their mouths found each other again, and he thought he might be ready even sooner than he'd anticipated. Ava's phone was buzzing but she didn't care, which made him smile. Her hand was on a very interesting trajectory down his chest and over his stomach. He pressed his hips against her, his kiss become more needy, when she pulled away and answered the phone.

He rolled onto his back and stared at the ceiling. Interrupted again. She was telling someone to come in. If it was Ashley, he was going to find a way to lock her in her room.

Ava got out of bed and he picked his head up to look at her.

"Security has a package for me."

"Can't they just leave it at the door?"

He rolled over onto his side and watched her go to the door. And then he started to feel panic in his stomach.

"Ava - wait. Maybe you should let me open it...."

"It's from my father..."

That made John sit up. As much as he knew how much Stavros loved Ava and would never hurt her, a mysterious package still made him nervous.

"My beautiful daughter. For you, a gift from the God's. All my love, patéras [father]."

Ava handed him the card, and his fingers brushed hers. He knew what a difficult relationship Ava had with her father, especially now, and how whatever he had sent could affect her. He reached out and gently rubbed her arm. She opened the box, to reveal a ring.

"This is....unexpected."

She sat holding the box on the edge of the bed. She turned to look at him, and he struggled to know what to say to her. He moved so that he was sitting next to her, and put his arm around her shoulders, pulling her to him.

"There was never any doubt that he loves you, Ava. In spite of everything else."

He rested his chin on top of her head for a moment.

"We could make a detour before we get to Paris. If you, you know, wanted to see him."

 

[Black Widow]

Arklay -- Mansion

She was alone now. To most it would be considered quiet, but not to Haleigh. There was the buzz of electricity through the old wiring, and the irregular noises made by staff moving around the mansion. And, though muffled, there was the cacophony of the party out on the lawn.

She turned toward the window, and looked out into the courtyard, her arms folded across her chest. Most everyone had left by now, and all that remained were members of the staff, cleaning up and breaking down the tents and tables. It wasn’t until she found that he wasn’t there that she realized she was even looking for him.

When she was this worked up, he was the one she always sought. He provided an outlet for her aggression, a relief valve for stress, a chance to clear her head. And then afterwards there was always sex. No matter who or what had pissed her off, she always left him feeling better. But he was gone already, probably back at Hellfire, working out his own frustrations with that bitch Brienne.

Bet she can’t fight for shit. He’ll probably forget her as soon as she’s gone.

She thought as she turned from the window.

Her lab was a comforting place. Housed underneath the East wing of the mansion, it was a vast, state of the art facility. There were a couple of technicians keeping an eye on things, familiar faces who reported only to Haleigh and her former caretaker, Alice.

Alice: Scion. I was hoping you’d stop by. It’s good to see you.

“And you as well. How are my copies?”

The report was good news, as usual. All copies were nominal, but strangely enough it didn’t give Haleigh the usual sense of satisfaction to hear it. All her life, she’d had little concern of death. She was nigh Indestructible to begin with, but on the off chance someone was strong or clever enough to kill her, she just transferred her consciousness into a new body, and came back.

Things were different now. For the next several months, she was vulnerable, because if she died, so would the baby. Additionally, none of her copies could bear children, and it was likely Kelly would try to weasel another deal out of her if Haleigh needed nanites for a new body. She was still very hard to kill, but she’d have to be on high alert, and take fewer chances than usual. She told Alice, and arranged for her doctor to make a house call after the Europeans left. Most of the time she monitored her own health, but it would be wise to get another set of eyes on the situation, in case she encountered something unfamiliar. For example, the entirety of the pregnancy.

When she got back to Hellfire, she stopped by her office to check on the status quo, as usual. The daily report was on her desk, but there was something else there too. A red box, tied with red ribbon. She reached for the box first. The report could wait. She tugged on the end of the ribbon until the tie came undone, and as the ribbon fluttered down to rest on the desk top, she lifted the lid off the box. She peered down curiously to find a plush teddy bear. When she pulled it from the box she found it had a red bow tie around its neck. A smile crept onto her lips as she straightened the bow tie a bit. It was really quite adorable, and thoughtful. Alek. Somehow it made her want him more, differently than before. Not for a fight. Not for a casual fuck either.

These pregnancy hormones are fuckin surreal.

She thought, feeling the soft fur of the bear. She sank slowly into her desk chair, resting the bear in her lap, mindlessly rubbing its ears as she turned her attention to the report. There was a lot here, and as she began to review the financial report on the European visit, she realized this was going to require a closer look. She didn’t mind, since she wasn’t looking forward to going back to her suite and getting back into the argument with Cameron. She sent him a text to let him know he shouldn’t wait for her return.

To Cameron>> Reviewing Hellfire Business. Might take a while. Meet you at the party.

She went back to the invoices and Intel reports. As the evening aged, she sent her assistant to get a change of clothes for her, and when she finished with work, she set the teddy bear in her chair as she got up to get dressed. A white top tucked into a black high waisted mini skirt, she pulled on some heels and touched up her hair, hurriedly. A little eye shadow, a bit of lipstick, and she was ready for the Black Gala. She was announced upon arrival, and she cast her gaze across the party to see who else was already here.

Apparently Cass wasn’t mad at Gia for kicking her dog anymore, because they were chatting like besties again, with the European Red Rook present as well. That was a surprise. Why was the European Red Queen calling in reinforcements? Suspicious. Heidi and Jack arrived right behind Haleigh, and they took notice as well.

“Gia seems much more sociable.”

Heidi: Yes, she told us she was going to try being.... nice. It’s truly bizarre. Did you have her replaced with a Life Model Decoy this afternoon?

Haleigh chuckled, shaking her head.

“No, but I scared the shit out of her. I don’t care if she’s nice, so long as she’s loyal. Help Zach keep an eye on her. She doesn’t get any more chances. Any more stunts and she’s dead.”

 

[Valkyrie]

The Red Queen's Suite

AJ pulled her closer as she slipped into bed next to him, and she was about to fall asleep against his warm body, when suddenly he jumped and a growl came out of his chest. She reached up and sleepily put a hand on his chest.

"What is it?"

“My Queen...you have been with the ‘King’?”

He sat up, leaving her feeling cold and alone without his usual heat against her. She pushed herself up onto her elbow and looked up at him.

"I wasn't with him. But I met with him, yes. In my library."

Her hand slid over his thigh, and she smiled sultrily.

"I told him he needed to get his shit together, and put up a better show in public."

Her lips pressed against the outside of his leg, and then she slid up to sit next to him, her hand sliding up his abs to rest on his chest. She kissed his pec this time, wrapping her leg over his so her body twined itself around his.

"And I told him an attack on you was an attack on me."

 

[Hex]

After the Red Hunt, Brienne sought out Archer to make sure he wasn't dead. Fortunately he was still alive...or unfortunately, however you decided to look at it. He apparently couldn't remember much of what happened, believing he had too much to coke and booze. It wasn't surprising really, Archer being a hard partier. But something still didn't sit right with Brienne, however she didn't push the matter knowing Archer was far more vocal than she was. Instead she would watch and observe. Erika and Cameron King already had her in their crosshairs which meant she had to be careful with how she acted. As for Ava? Brienne had no doubt in her mind that the Black Queen was behind it all.

Brienne returned to her suite sometime after speaking with Archer, telling him she would meet him at the Black Gala. A hot shower, a little weed, and some hemlock later, Brienne was feeling relaxed and like a whole new woman. Already dressed for the event in some ripped leather skinny pants, black crop top, and a black velvet jacket, Brienne was slipping on her spiked heels when she heard a knock on her chamber room door. Standing from the couch, her makeup was smokey and sexy, a signature for the European Black Queen, while her sandy blonde hair was loosely curled. She gave herself a once over in the mirror before finally walking to the door and opening it. The Red King.

"Alek."

His name like butter from her glossy lips. Her icy blue eyes noted the bottle of hemlock he was carrying before she lifted her eyes to meet with his..

"You're playing a dangerous game..."

She started, the tone of her voice laced with warning.

"That's very poisonous stuff."

She finally finished with a smirk, referring to the hemlock, although after everything he had been through that day, it wouldn't be shocking if he believed her warnings were aimed elsewhere. Brienne took the bottle from him, placing it on the table next to the door before folding her arms across her chest.

"I'm not exactly a fan of being ditched [at the hunt], especially when I was verbally attacked by the White Princess and Rook thereafter. [scoffing] I'm sure on direct orders from Haleigh."

Brienne knew it wasn't. It was from Cameron, but she wanted to gauge Alek's reaction.

"It seems i'm not in any Queen's favor this weekend. Boo."

She rolled her eyes and opened her door for Alek before gesturing to the bottle of hemlock.

"So....does this mean i'm still in your favor, King Alek? Or are you giving me a parting gift because your Queen's want me gone?"

Brienne purred seductively, subtly gathering information as to what exactly Alek's game was, and if she still had him interested enough to be a thorn in Haleigh's side.

 

[Berserker]

Brienne's Suite

He leaned against the doorway, and when she opened the door, met her eyes with his piercing blue ones. She said his name, and he could tell she was appreciative of what she saw. He let the bottle of hemlock dangle from his hand.

"Alek. You're playing a dangerous game...That's very poisonous stuff."

"Most say the same about you."

He pushed off the door frame once she had taken the bottle out of his hand.

"But that's why it's a gift."

She crossed her arms over her chest, in a way that wasn't terribly convincing: if she hadn't wanted to see him, she wouldn't have let him in.

"I'm not exactly a fan of being ditched [at the hunt], especially when I was verbally attacked by the White Princess and Rook thereafter. [scoffing] I'm sure on direct orders from Haleigh. It seems i'm not in any Queen's favor this weekend. Boo."

She opened the door for him and he stepped inside, staying close to her.

"You're already a Queen. In another branch. What fuck do you give what they think of you? Besides, you seemed very cozy with the Black Bishop when I came to get you for our tour."

"So....does this mean I'm still in your favor, King Alek? Or are you giving me a parting gift because your Queen's want me gone?"

He moved closer to her, his hands on her waist, moving her further into the room. His face was almost touching hers as he spoke.

"I don't answer to queens. I'm a king."

There was conviction in his voice, and a touch of anger. He kissed her aggressively, taking her mouth hard, his tongue pressing inside to taste her.

"And I'm here because I want to fuck you senseless."

He kissed her again, his hand sliding under the waistband of her leather pants. Why was it that these girls insisted on wearing these tight pants that were impossible to get off? He found what he was looking for, and pulled back from the kiss to look into her face. He leaned in then, mouth to her ear.

"You already feel so good..."

 

[Persephone]

It seemed the trend for the day was being interrupted. Security was outside their chamber room doors with a package from Ava, John protesting about having them leave it outside. However Ava was already out of bed answering the door. The package was small, as was the note. Her eyes immediately recognizing the writing.

John: "Ava - wait. Maybe you should let me open it...."

She could hear the panic in John's voice, but she slowly turned telling him it was from her father. She read the note to him before handing the card over. He gently rubbed her arm comfortingly as she inhaled a breath and opened the box. It was a beautiful gold and diamond Grecian ring, one that represented her heritage and upbringing. She didn't know how to react to it, looking to John with a bit of a bewildered look. He took a seat next to her, wrapping his arm around her back and pulling her against him.

John: "There was never any doubt that he loves you, Ava. In spite of everything else."

Ava's eyes lowered to the ring, still in the box, held within her hands. Despite running him out of Hellfire, Ava knew Stavros loved her. Despite not speaking to him for over a year and a half, Ava knew Stavros loved her. Despite any horrible thing she could do or had done in the past....Ava knew Stavros loved her. And she loved him. It was why he was still alive...

"I know. It's just, this gift is...so random. And to get it tonight of all nights? [shaking her head gently] I don't understand what he's playing at..."

It was only natural for Ava to believe there was an ulterior motive behind the gift, even if it was from her father. Becoming Queen meant always having to be on guard about everything. But despite all that, Ava still had a soft spot for him...she did miss him. Ava leaned her head against John's shoulder, feeling him rest his chin on top of her head.

John: "We could make a detour before we get to Paris. If you, you know, wanted to see him."

She nibbled the inside of her lip, her eyes studying the ring as if it would somehow give her the answers to her questions.

"Yeah...maybe."

Ava finally took the ring from the box, leaving the box in her lap as she slipped the ring onto her finger. She was quiet for a moment, running the pad of her thumb along the diamond.

"I should finish getting ready."

Ava then lifted her head from John's shoulder to look at him, a smile tugging on the corners of her lips.

"Need to fix my hair again."

She joked, trying to cut the tension that had built the moment security arrived with her gift. Ava leaned in and gave John a kiss, the hand that the ring adorned holding his face. She then pulled back and stood from the bed, placing the empty box on her vanity before disappearing into the bathroom to finish getting ready.

 

[Steel]

The Black King & Queen's Suite

He sat next to Ava, trying to comfort her. Even though it was a gift from her father, it was loaded with all sorts of emotions for her. And Steel might not have liked how Stavros often treated Ava, but he knew that he did love her, and John told her so.

"I know. It's just, this gift is...so random. And to get it tonight of all nights? [shaking her head gently] I don't understand what he's playing at..."

"Maybe he wants to show you his support."

John didn't really believe that, but he wanted to put her mind at ease, tonight of all nights. He suggested maybe they could plan a visit, if she was missing him. He know Ava hadn't seen her father since the coup. She neither agreed nor dismissed the idea, so he let it drop, figuring she would decide what she wanted to do in her own time. He did notice that she put the ring on her finger, though.

"I should finish getting ready."

"Ava...we can talk about this..."

But she was done discussing it, and she gave him a little smile.

"Need to fix my hair again."

He grinned at her, his lips moving to her jawline.

"Well then maybe you should leave it messy for just a little while longer..."

She kissed him, but then got up and went to finish getting dressed. He sighed, unable to shake the feeling that he was failing her somehow. He decided to give her a few minutes of space, and began to retrieve his clothes from the floor and dress again. Once his suit was on, he dug into a small lacquered box on the dresser for a pair of cufflinks and moved towards the bathroom while he hooked them on. He chose another topic, just wanting to hear her voice, make sure she was okay.

"Do you think Ava & Ben are okay with things?"

 

[Silver]

Hellfire Club – Black Gala



:: After a few celebratory drinks with Ava and John on the ‘trade’ and new alliance, Bretta headed back to her suite to tell Damien that the meeting was a success. Damien, however, was sound asleep in bed and Bretta didn’t have the heart to wake him. She left him a note before she headed for the Black Wing to talk to Cassandra. Cassandra was feeling much better, as Bretta knew she would, due to her spell she had cast, and more upbeat than she was earlier that day. Cassandra happily told her about the great conversation that she had had with Amanda and Bretta had the pleasure of being able to tell Cassandra that she was now her Princess. Bretta and her new Princess then had a good discussion on what happened next. Bretta gave her permission to skip some of the events tomorrow to get things ready for her upcoming move, but she expected her to attend tomorrow morning’s event and, of course, the Red party tomorrow night. They continued to talk about Bretta’s expectations of Cassandra as Red Princess, and it was decided that the remainder of the weekend was all about having fun and Cassandra reclaiming her life after being mentally ill for so long. Bretta also made sure to mention that, once they get back home, her first official duty as Princess was to get to know the London Branch better, get to know the staff members there, the rest of the Inner Circle, as well getting to know her new country and city for the foreseeable future. ::

:: Once Bretta arrived back at her suite, Damien was up and he was excited about Cassandra being Princess. He hurriedly jumped into the shower, quickly got dressed, and then made his way down to the conservatory. Bretta, meanwhile, just relaxed and got ready for the night herself, taking her time with her outfit. Once she was pleased with how she looked, she, too, was off to the Gala. Arriving at the doors to the conservatory, Bretta stopped for one moment. She could see how comfortable both Cassandra and Damien already were with each other as they interacted with Giuletta Nefaria. She felt a pang of wistfulness. Damien had found his lady love at last. Bretta knew that the casual sex part of their relationship was now over. He would only want to share a bed with Cassandra now. Bretta didn’t have a problem with that. Though they have had incredible sex over the years, Bretta always knew that she wasn’t his. Now she knew why – he had imprinted on Cassandra that day when she had been liberated from the German lab at the end of the war. ::

They look good together.

:: Bretta took a deep breath and entered the conservatory. An announcement indicating her arrival sounded. ::

Announcer: “Please welcome the Red Queen of the London Branch, Bretta O’Malley!”

:: Bretta smiled warmly at both her Rook and Princess as they stood and clapped but she didn’t immediately head over there. She headed for Haleigh Davidoff-King instead. ::

“Haleigh, dear, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”