A Weekend Affair # 7 - Exodus

[Berserker]

The Red King’s Suite

When they had finished, Haleigh had characterized their encounter as 'good' - which was Haleigh speak for any number of excessive adjectives. Her mind was just as logical and economical with words as with everything else. But he did take the opportunity to tease her about it, feigning being wounded by her words. In truth, he knew what it had felt like on the other end, and knew 'amazing' didn't cover it any better than 'good' did. He laid down next to her on the bed, making her comfortable now that the urgency of what they'd been doing had passed. Though, of course, he still wanted her. Always wanted her.

Her hands were in his beard, and somehow that gentle touch equaled a thousand affectionate words. She teased him right back, before throwing a bone to his ego.

Haleigh: “I’m so sorry, lover. It seems you’ve fucked the more articulate vocabulary right out of me.”

He grinned wider at that, and suggested maybe he should be given another opportunity to increase his score.

Haleigh: “As if you aren’t already at the top of the leaderboard.”

"Damn right..."

He murmured it as he began to plant kisses on her body, running his fingers lightly over her bare skin, ending at her stomach with a reverent kiss there. He asked if there was a chance they'd just added another to the mix, and it was only half a joke. He sighed involuntarily as her fingers touched his hair.

Haleigh: “If we are, then by now we’ve surely made four or five. I’m almost afraid to run a scan.”

"Great, we've almost half our own bandy team then."

He chuckled, smiling up at her.

Haleigh: “Would you really want more than one?”

He gently placed his hand on her stomach, and the mirth left his smile for matter-of-factness.

"Of course."

He rested his head in her lap. It felt like they had always been together like this. He was starting to think maybe it had always been there, a friendship that was only recently allowed to be more.

"Two or three little girls who look just like you? What's not to love? Besides, no child should grow up alone."

He pushed the thoughts of his own not-so-great childhood away. His voice took on a musing quality.

"And after this set of twins, you'll probably want at least one more to balance it out and be the responsible child."

He turned his head to grin at her again.

"I bet they'll get into lots of trouble together."

He held up a finger.

"But don't worry, she'll always be Daddy's Little Girl, even if she is a terror. Like her mother."

He turned silent, thinking of the future. Which now seemed so wide open.

Haleigh: “I could stay here in bed with you all day, making octuplets, but we should get going. You know how Ashley gets when she has to wait for food to be served.”

He groaned, laying his head back down.

"Fuck Ashley's food."

But with a last kiss Haleigh was getting up to dress, and their magickal little world was invaded by their duty, once again. Alek went into the closet to get a fresh suit, deciding that three tries and fails with the other pair of slacks was probably enough. He checked himself in the mirror, making sure his scar was visible behind his open shirt. When he came out of the closet and saw her, he whistled, coming to her and taking her hands.

"You look amazing."

She would blow all the other women out of the water - not only because naturally she did so, but because she was dressed so glamorously for a mere breakfast. He offered his arm to her with a proud smile.

"Shall we?"

They exited his room, seeing Jack also in the hallway as they started to the Great Hall. It made him happy that Haleigh acknowledged his Bishop, bestowing a greeting upon him.

Jack: “Good Morning, Your Grace, and My King.”

"Jack."

Alek nodded to him.

"Excellent job last night, as usual."

Jack: “I hope you aren’t still cross with Heidi about yesterday.”

But Haleigh assured him that she wasn't. It didn't escape Alek that Jack was a tie to Haleigh's court through Heidi, and that was a valuable link indeed. It made the gears in his mind turn...

Jack: “I’m concerned that her King is taking advantage of her allegiance.”

"Imaging that," he said under his breath. His own Knight? Did Cameron have no shame? Maybe Cameron and Ashley should be paired together - they deserved each other.

Haleigh: After seeing her allow him to have his way with her the other day, and her willingness to obey his wishes yesterday, I’m inclined to agree.

Oh, the poor bastard. He put a hand on Jack's shoulder. If anyone knew how this felt, it was Alek.

Jack: “She would never betray her Queen, not even for a King.”

And his Bishop had not betray his King, either. Not even for Heidi.

Haleigh: I hope you’re right, Jack. And even more, I hope it never comes to that.

He looked at Haleigh, studying her face.

"We'll make sure it doesn't come to that."

His free hand clenched into a fist. If Cameron made a hair's-width of a move against Haleigh, he'd be dead before he could recruit Heidi's help.

"You know we support your relationship with Heidi, Jack. But I also know you will do your duty."

Alek's hand went to Haleigh's stomach.

"The White Queen is carrying the Red Court's heir, named so by the Red Queen herself. I need not remind you the importance of protecting that heir."

He trusted Jack. If he didn't, he wouldn't be his Bishop. But sometimes things needed to be made crystal clear.

 

[Black Widow]

Hellfire -- The Red King’s Suite

They laid together afterward to catch their breath. They teased each other lightly and half joked about the possibility of more babies.

Alek: Great, we’ve almost half our own bandy team then.

She shared his laugh.

“You’ll have to be their coach. I’ll hire cheerleaders.”

She replied, and then she asked him, a bit more seriously, if he really wanted more than one. His response was heartwarming.

“A bunch of rowdy boys is what we could end up with instead.”

She warned, but even then it didn’t sound so bad. After not allowing herself to want kids all her life, suddenly she was very attached to the idea. He supposed that after the twins she might want another to balance it out.

“Hmm, we’ll see.”

Alek bet they would get in lots of trouble together, but that their daughter would always be his little girl, even if she was a terror like her mother. Which, she most likely would be.

“We’re going to have to make sure we find exceptionally skilled babysitters.”

She said, and then she had to get them back on task. Alek grumbled about it, but he got dressed anyway. Somehow he looked just as sexy clothed as he was naked. He whistled at her and told her she looked amazing.

“Just ‘amazing’?”

She challenged, but then she laughed.

“Just kidding.”

He offered his arm and she took it, laying her head against his shoulder briefly before they left his suite. They found his Bishop out in the hall, and she said good morning to him, getting the return greeting as they fell in step together on the way to breakfast.

Alek: Jack. Excellent job last night, as usual.

Jack: Thank you, Sire. I hope you aren’t still cross with Heidi after yesterday.

Haleigh realized Jack was talking to her again, and reassured him. She knew Heidi was between a rock and a hard place right now. Jack was concerned about it. After seeing the affair in Cameron’s study (one of the few times he hadn’t scrambled the camera feed — because of course he’d wanted her to see it), not to mention the way Cameron kept Heidi to himself yesterday, Haleigh too was a bit concerned, and she said as much.

Jack said, carefully, that Heidi would never betray her, not even for Cameron. She hoped it wouldn’t come to that. Alek reassured them both, and offered his support for Jack and Heidi, before acknowledging that there wasn’t any doubt Jack would do his duty. Then Alek mentioned the Red Court’s heir, and Haleigh gave a sly smile. She had wondered when Alek was going to start announcing that. He hadn’t brought it up to her, but she had seen his discussion with Ashley. Jack nodded, with more conviction than Haleigh expected.

Jack: Children should be fiercely protected, and heirs even moreso. I’m sure our Knight has already informed security. I’ll make sure words gets out to all the pawns as well.

“Excellent.”

 

[Valkyrie]

The Great Hall

They were discussing the portrayal of vampires and werewolves in the movies, and Ashley interjected a rumor she'd heard that vampires had commissioned the films about them to spread misinformation to humans. Genius, really.

Juliette: Vell, ‘ere I seet, een dze daytime. And dze Cross does not set me alight....

She shared a conspiratorial smile with Juliette. She raised her glass to the vampire queen.

"And how fortunate we are that that is so."

She asked Liam if they had plans when they returned home.

Liam: “Nothing in particular, just business as usual. Of course I’ll be designing the power-plant for your Aqua Ring facilities, and energizing its core.”

"I normally leave the science to Jack, but I find this new venture extremely exciting. A new age for our court, and club."

And then she thought her drink had turned bad, but realized it was just the arrival of Amanda, who had been hovering at their table like the kid who didn't get asked to play with the others, and now was butting into their conversation.

Amanda: "We will all miss our European counterparts, that much is true. I don't think we've had this kind of excitement in the halls of Hellfire in quite some time..."

"Oh, Amanda, is that you? I didn't think you'd spent enough time at the weekend's events to remember our guests' names, let alone miss them."

Ashley capped off her statement with an eat-shit-and-die smile.

But Amanda - brainiac that she clearly was - didn't take the hint and instead continued to kiss ass a day late and a dollar short with some half-assed last-minute gifts.

Amanda: "On that same note, I wanted to take a moment to formally show The Black Court's gratitude in having you as guests this weekend..."

Ashley rolled her eyes, taking another drink.

Liam: “Why, Amanda, I find myself suddenly wishing we’ve had the chance to get to know each other better this weekend. It’s very thoughtful, thank you.”

Ashley laughed.

"Why, yes, I hear Amanda enjoys getting to know better anyone that will have her."

Amanda went on to give Juliette some used book. This bitch.

Amanda: "Let it be known that The Black Court is still very much interested in the beauty of a working relationship, and is not afraid to say it outright."

Alright, enough was enough. She waved her hand dismissively in Amanda's direction.

"Run along now, knight, you're interrupting pleasant conversation between regents who have already made working relationships."

She turned her focus to Liam, who was taking the conversation back to before they were so rudely interrupted.

Liam: “Right, so it’ll be business as usual when we get home, plus I’ve just remembered I need to finish my course on learning to speak French. My understanding is so limited it’s embarrassing.”

Ashley laughed charmingly.

"Well, I can't think of a more excellent tutor than the one you've chosen."

Her gaze moved to Juliette, and she smiled warmly.

"Though I suspect she can be a tough taskmaster."

Her eyes slid back to Liam.

"But I'm not sure I myself would find that...unpleasant."

 

[Fathom]

Hellfire — The Common Corridor

She found Jack, walking with Haleigh and Alek. Alek looked smarmy, Haleigh sly, and Jack serious. In other words, nothing at all seemed amiss. Her Queen was resplendent this morning. If Haleigh was upset about her matrimonial conflict, it didn’t show in the slightest, in fact she seemed to glow. Jack offered Heidi an expression that counted as a smile for him, and as the group approached her, he shifted aside a bit so she could fall in with them, between him and Haleigh.

“Good Morning, My Queen, and [to Alek] Your Majesty.”

Haleigh: Good Morning, Heidi. What can my favorite Knight report?

Heidi gave Haleigh a sideways glance and a curious smile as her hand slipped around Jack’s forearm.

“Am I not your only Knight, your Grace?”

Haleigh: There are other Knights of Hellfire, but you are mine, and naturally that makes you my favorite. I understand we have new guests arriving today.

“The King’s guests, yes. I wanted to speak with you about them.”

She paused, cautious about the subject. She glanced at her Queen again, finding Haleigh’s demeanor serene, quite unlike the wrath of the night before. Her courage swelled like a wave, carrying her forth.

“Cameron has given orders to protect them with our lives. There are some underlings who wonder if we’ll need to protect them from you, My Queen. Would you kill them?”

Haleigh: Not without cause. It’s no surprise that concubine and her baseborn girl are under the King’s Protection.

Somehow the response gave Heidi no reassurance. Jack’s free hand moved to rest atop her own. Haleigh seemed to sense her apprehension.

Haleigh: Heidi, the King and I may be separating on a personal front, but professionally, the status quo has not changed. The divorce will be settled soon and the momentary conflict will be resolved. I will not oppose any move of Cameron’s unless it threatens me or the success of our Court and Club. You can reassure the errant Captains that there is no reason to fear me.

“Of course, Your Grace. They will be relieved to hear it.”

Haleigh: You’d tell me if Cameron made a move against me, wouldn’t you Heidi?

“I.....”

Haleigh’s gaze bored into her as they walked. Heidi was acutely aware of what a terribly difficult position she would be stuck in until Cameron and Haleigh reconciled. It felt like the fossilized skeleton of a starfish was stuck in her throat, and she tried to swallow the sensation down.

“I would, My Queen.”

She replied, with conviction to make up for the hesitation. What else could she say? She hoped to never actually be faced with such a scenario. Heidi was immensely grateful that they were passing through the doors of the great hall to breakfast. There were little round four-top tables arranged throughout the room.

Haleigh: So it’s either we sit with my bitterly estranged husband or both our exes. My vote is Zach and Brienne. At least they’ll be happy with me this morning. Or I guess we could get our own table, and see who comes to us. What do you think, Alek?

 

[Neptune]

Hellfire — The Great Hall

His chat with Haleigh had gone well, he thought. Even Alek seemed to be sympathetic to his cause. It made Jack feel better about the state of things, at least. And then Alek declared Haleigh was carrying the Red Court’s heir, and apparently Ashley had approved it too. Jack nodded solemnly and agreed with his King’s decree. He knew all too well that the children would need to be defended staunchly. And the heir to his Court especially. His own birthright has been usurped, he would not allow that to happen here, under his watch.

Heidi joined them, and she took a moment to discuss business with her Queen, and to reassure Haleigh of her allegiance. Jack offered a supportive touch, but otherwise didn’t interrupt. He had done his part to help Heidi, and was resolved to do more, but in some cases she needed to help herself.

“Let’s sit with Calder.”

He suggested, with two motives. One, he wanted to prevent the possibility of sitting with Cameron. Two, his new Red Rook was sitting alone. Heidi warmly agreed. Jack didn’t want to spoil her smile by telling he knew, though knowing had soured his own mood. He wouldn’t allow himself to scowl at the dastardly White King, but he wanted to.

He was contemplating what he should do about it. It seemed like Cameron King was in the way of a great many people lately. It wasn’t lost on Jack that Cameron’s downfall might mean Haleigh offering Alek a crown of a different color, which would solve Ashley’s strife and AJ’s as well, but most importantly, it would save Heidi.

He had to be careful who he shared his thoughts with, though, Jack had something most people didn’t: a psi screen. It kept the telepaths out of his business, but only as long as he kept his business to himself. That made it tricky to do very much, or at least it meant that whatever he did, he needed plausible deniability.

“Morning, Rook. These seats taken?”

He asked gruffly when they approached the table Calder sat at. He wished it were as simple as just telling Cameron to back off, but that would be the worst thing he could do. It really was unfortunate that Cameron hadn’t gotten himself killed last night. Maybe he still would.

Heidi sat, and Jack followed suit, and then the waiter was over, offering drinks. Heidi got a sparkling water as usual, which she was going to spike herself. Jack ordered spiced rum and pineapple juice.

Heidi: So, Calder, how is it so far? Mr Red Rook. I bet the little pawn bunnies have been throwing themselves at you since last night.

 

[Berserker]

The Red King’s Suite

They were talking about the children in her belly, as well as the ones they might have in the future, something he never tired of. He commented how much he would enjoy have several daughters all like their mother.

Haleigh: “A bunch of rowdy boys is what we could end up with instead.”

He grinned.

"That would be okay too."

He suspected that any children of he and Haleigh would be rowdy, though, based on who their parents were. Unfortunately, their dreaming was cut short by the need to dress for breakfast, and then both did so, albeit reluctantly. When he saw her in the dress she'd chosen, he told her she looked amazing.

Haleigh: “Just ‘amazing’?”

She was teasing him, but he leaned in to her as he held both her hands.

"Fabulous...magnificent...beautiful...incredible...astounding..."

He punctuated each word with a kiss on her neck, before straightening and offering his arm to her, which she took. And then they were on their way. They met Jack in the hallway and moved on together. Jack was worried about Heidi, and with reason. A regent questioning the loyalty of their knight was never a good thing. He believed in Jack's loyalty, but made sure to hammer home that that loyalty included protecting Haleigh - even from Heidi.

Jack: Children should be fiercely protected, and heirs even moreso. I’m sure our Knight has already informed security. I’ll make sure words gets out to all the pawns as well.

"Good man."

Alek knew the entire Red Court had already been instructed to protect Haleigh's children with their lives, but knowing that one of those children was not only Alek's child but their own heir could only help keep all three of them safe.

But then speak of the devil Heidi appeared, which Alek was reasonably sure was not an accident.

Heidi: “Good Morning, My Queen, and [to Alek] Your Majesty.”

"Heidi. Good morning."

There was an odd interlude between Haleigh and Heidi about Heidi being her favorite knight. But then it became clear that Heidi was there to discuss Elena's imminent arrival. He remembered Elena, from before. She was hot. But not anywhere in Haleigh's league. Though that mattered little, as long as she kept Cameron out of their hair.

Heidi: “Cameron has given orders to protect them with our lives."

Alek scoffed at that. Not Haleigh. Not her unborn babies. Elena and her daughter.

Heidi: "There are some underlings who wonder if we’ll need to protect them from you, My Queen. Would you kill them?”

He had to admit, he admired that Heidi didn't mince words. He knew it wouldn't have bothered her if Haleigh had said she planned to.

Haleigh: Heidi, the King and I may be separating on a personal front, but professionally, the status quo has not changed. The divorce will be settled soon and the momentary conflict will be resolved. I will not oppose any move of Cameron’s unless it threatens me or the success of our Court and Club. You can reassure the errant Captains that there is no reason to fear me.

It gave him a feeling of relief that Haleigh seemed confident in their divorce, sure that there would not be reconciliation.

Haleigh: You’d tell me if Cameron made a move against me, wouldn’t you Heidi?

Heidi: “I...I would, My Queen.”

But what was she going to say? Alek wasn't sure that he one hundred percent beleived her. He would have said the same to Helena, and they all knew how that had turned out. Still, she had stayed loyal to her European Queen, even in the face of coup, and that said something about her.

They had reached the hall at this point, and he scanned the room. First for threats, then to see who was there and who wasn't. Ava was absent. Typical. So was the London Red Queen. Liam and Juliette, however, were already sitting with Ashley and the dog. Disgraceful, but there wasn't anything he could do about it. He reminded himself that an alliance made by Ashley benefited him as well. But still, it didn't sit well.

Haleigh: So it’s either we sit with my bitterly estranged husband or both our exes. My vote is Zach and Brienne. At least they’ll be happy with me this morning. Or I guess we could get our own table, and see who comes to us. What do you think, Alek?

"Brienne is NOT my ex."

Alek scowled.

"But best we snatch up the other guest regents before we end up sitting alone. As much as I would enjoy that personally..."

He raised her hand to his lips and kissed her palm.

"It wouldn't look good professionally."

He sighed.

"And as much as I hate to admit it, it's not a bad idea to cement the idea to everyone that we have a relationship with the new Black King."

 

[Silver]

Hellfire Club – Black Wing

:: The guardsman came back and led her into the Black Wing, right to their door. Bretta smoothed down her simple, yet elegant, red dress. It was the perfect outfit for the plane. The door opened and John appeared with a warm smile. ::

"Bretta - good morning. You're looking lovely today. Please, come in."

“Thank you. You look quite dashing yourself.”

:: She passed by him and entered the room. John passed her by to stand next to Ava. ::

"So, what did you want to talk about?"

“I was on my way to breakfast when I wanted to make sure that the two of you are alright after last night.”

:: A bit of red grew in her cheeks as her eyes cut away from the two. She felt awful about what Archer did to Ava. ::

“I also wanted to offer my sincerest apologies for what Archer Fairchild did to you, Ava.”

:: The European Red Queen’s eyes cut back as she looked at the two of them, her hands balling into fists. ::

“If I had known what he was up to...I would’ve surely put a stop to it somehow.”

 

[Masque]

Hellfire Club – The Great Hall

Gia watched the continuous arrival of people and so she knew that Princess Bitch would make a bee-line for her when Gia spotted her looking around the Hall, laying her beady little eyes on her. She made sure her face betrayed no emtion.

"Look at this. The White Bishop is finally on time and nobody will be around to see it. How sad."

Gia couldn’t help it; she mimicked Erika’s tone.

“Look at this. The White Princess still thinks she’s relevant when everybody else knows she’s unrelevant. How sad.”

Gia rolled her eyes as Erika moved over and took the seat next to hers.

"We've tested The White Queen's beverage of choice this morning I'm sure? Nobody wants a repeat of last night. In fact, let's not have her drink from anything that's been opened in any way. It's more fitting of a Queen to have bottles opened for her on demand, anyhow."

Gia shrugged.

“I’m not sure, Erika. I’m not the one in charge of her beverages. But feel free to check them out for yourself.”

"Speaking of repeats, I trust that my brother sufficiently put you into place when it comes to commenting on my family's personal life, yes? Because if not, I can most certainly reacquaint you with the topic."

And there it was. Gia’s lips curled up into a smile as she turned to the girl beside her.

“You know, at least I tried to help. Look around you, Erika. Everybody is commenting on ‘your family’s personal life’.

Gia sighed and closed her eyes, wondering if she was going to regret this. What was she thinking? This was Erika. Of COURSE she was going to regret this.

“That, as I’m sure you already know, is NOT acceptable. People know that there are cracks starting to form in the White Court, Erika. We CAN’T let that happen. I don’t know how we’re going to do this, but we need to keep our Court from crumbling to the ground. The White Court needs to show everybody that it is a united front and I’ll be damned if anybody tries to take advantage of us right now.”

 

[Siphon]

The Great Hall

Calder didn't really mind sitting alone and people watching, but he did feel a bit nervous, it being his first real day and all. He had picked out a pawn who had enhanced hearing that he could borrow, and so was amusing himself getting to see the lay of the land with all the players in the room. He was coming in late to things, and the Europeans would be going home after breakfast anyway, but it passed the time.

It did bother him that his King and the White Queen had not yet arrived. It was difficult to switch his brain off of protection mode, which he knew wasn't strictly his job anymore, as least not in the straight bodyguard sense. And it wasn't that he didn't think his King could protect Haleigh, either, because of course he did. But he was already nervous, and the lack of a visual on his regent compounded that feeling and made him wonder if he should have waited in the Red Wing to escort the pair himself. Was that part of his job? He hadn't exactly gotten and instruction manual. Should he go over and ask AJ about it? Or his Queen? No, that would be interrupting them when they were with the London dignitaries. Suddenly it occurred to him that maybe he shouldn't eat anything, because there was an excellent chance that it might all come back up again. And THAT would be really embarrassing.

Thankfully before he had an indecision-fueled-coronary, the Red King and White Queen entered the room, and he could breathe a sigh of relief. But then there was the momentary panic that they might come and sit with him. His King was a good guy that way, always looking out for his people. But no, this event was too important for Alek to worry about someone like Calder. And then, yes, confirmed, they were talking about sitting with the London Black Queen. He wondered where their own Black Queen and he new King were. But he had heard about the attack on the Queen, of course, so maybe she was taking it easy. His eyes shifted to his own Queen. He couldn't imagine her laying about and missing something important like this, no matter what had been done to her. It made him proud.

But then Jack and the White Knight were coming over to his table, and then talking to him.

Jack: “Morning, Rook. These seats taken?”

Clumsily, he stood up, fiddling with his napkin, nodding like an idiot.

"Of...of course! Neptune. Sir!"

Shit, he hadn't acknowledged the White Knight. He turned to her quickly.

"Ma'am!"

The Bishop didn't seem to be in a great mood, and he prayed it wasn't something to do with him. The White Knight made him extra nervous - she was a knockout, but also reasonably scary, which actually made her a perfect compliment to the Bishop, who most of the men were more than a little afraid of as well. Not that both of them hadn't been nice to him the night before at the party, when he had been made Rook.

He ordered a beer, since Neptune had ordered a drink, and he knew that's what his King always drank.

Heidi: So, Calder, how is it so far? Mr Red Rook. I bet the little pawn bunnies have been throwing themselves at you since last night.

He cleared his throat, and chuckled nervously.

"Well, you know, uh...you wouldn't believe the offers I've received to see the inside of an Inner Circle room in the Red Wing. But, you know, I've been keeping my head down. Just want to learn as much as I can. It's early days."

He hastily took a drink to make himself stop talking.

It didn't work.

"That party last night was crazy, huh?"

He looked from one of his tablemates to the other, then settled on the Bishop.

"Neptune, sir - I wanted to thank you for putting in a good word for me with the Queen. I don't think I'll ever be able to repay you."

 

[Savage]

Hellfire -- The Great Hall

The conversation was mostly between his Queen and the others, until the topic of Archer came up. AJ had heard about the attack on Ava, and it rankled him. If anyone tried that with his Ashley, there’d be hell to pay. Savage spoke up, saying what he would have done, and earned a kiss from his Queen. That brightened his mood again. It was even better when she agreed that he was the most loyal. And Liam seemed to be getting the picture too.

As it turned out, this experience wasn’t as bad as he’d thought it would be. Juliette wasn’t as dead as usual, and Liam was actually.... pleasant. AJ still didn’t like that his Ashley had done business with the man, but she had assured him that it was just business, and that she wouldn’t do it anymore. Not to mention that she was currently petting him a bit as they chatted with the others, which calmed him a great deal. They were discussing movies about their respective kinds. Juliette mentioned Underworld, and for once AJ understood what she said.

Ashley: Ooh, I saw that one! With the hot hot werewolf leader? Perhaps I should invest in one of those tight black leather outfits?

“I suppose, if you want to.”

He replied, though he couldn’t really remember what she was talking about, if his Queen wanted something, he was all for her getting it. His Ashley and Juliette talked some more about dead thing movies, as AJ drank deeply from his breakfast cocktail. Amanda approached the table, putting a little tension in the air.

His Queen was not pleased. Why had he ever thought his Ashley would want her in their bed? His Queen clearly despised Amanda. He regretted his mistake all over again. He had enjoyed it at the time, but now he knew it to be ill-advised. AJ decided his drink was remarkably savory, and paid the contents of his glass very rapt attention while Amanda gave gifts to Liam and Juliette.

Liam thanked Amanda and so did Juliette. The dead thing sounded almost human again when she lamented that her book had been lost at sea. AJ caught himself thinking it was too bad she wasn’t lost with it, but then he felt guilty because he was supposed to be making nice with his Queen’s friends, and that was not a nice thought. He told himself to do better, for his Ashley’s sake. The conversation shifted to Liam’s efforts to learn French. His Ashley suggested that he had a good tutor, though perhaps a strict one.

Ashley: But I'm not sure I myself would find that...unpleasant.

Juliette: Elle me fait la revouloir.
[She makes me want her again.]

The Vampire said slowly to her King. AJ swallowed his mouthful of juice hard.

Liam: Et moi.
[And me.]

Oh no. No, no, no. He put his glass down a little sharply.

“I could teach my Ashley to speak French!”

He rushed to say. Juliette and Liam looked at each other, their shock evident. Yes, surprise, you scoundrels.

“I used to trade goods with the French Canadians, I learned to speak the language very well.”

 

[Black Widow]

Hellfire -- The Common Corridor

Almost as if summoned, Heidi joined their party next. Morning greetings were traded, and then Heidi brought up the elephant and her calf. Cameron had ordered them Protection, of course. The White King’s own wife and son could go suck down some nightshade, for all he seemed to care, but those little Estrada bitches were to be protected. Haleigh would have been pissed about it, but her Knight amused her by asking if she would kill them, casually.

“Not without cause. It’s no surprise that concubine and her baseborn girl are under the King’s Protection.”

For fuck’s sake, he’d already renovated a suite for them. But she wasn’t going to get mad about it, she wasn’t going to let Cameron’s callousness bother her. Heidi was noticeably uncomfortable now, the poor woman. Haleigh decided to assuage her concerns, just as she had Jack’s. But she had to ask a question she knew there could only be one answer to.

Heidi answered correctly, but not without a little pause. Haleigh gave her a small smile. If Heidi had answered too quickly, it would be suspicious. A bit of uncertainty was to be expected. If Heidi had to choose, it wouldn’t be easy for her, but Haleigh believed her to be loyal at her core. After all, she had gone down hard for her last Queen when it came to a coup. Plus, the woman was strongly attached to Jack. Zach had told Haleigh as much just before the Europeans arrived. It was a link in their favor, and no wonder Cameron was getting so covetous of the White Knight lately.

They arrived at the Great Hall, and Haleigh glanced around tactfully before posing the options to Alek. Sit with Cameron (yeah, right), or their exes. Or they could post up at an empty table and see who came to them. She asked for his opinion, because she valued it.

He scowled that Brienne was not his ex, and that made her smile. As much as the British Black Queen had been wrapped around his dick the last two days, he still wouldn’t say she qualified enough as a fling to even be an ex? That was just too amusing.

Still, his opinion was that they should sit with Zach and Brienne, and he was right. It wouldn’t look good if they didn’t make an effort, and they had the advantage of knowing in advance about Zach’s transition. Haleigh should be seen with Brienne publicly before the announcement, and they might as well set their differences aside, for Zach’s sake. It wouldn’t be fair to him otherwise.

She noticed how happy he was with Brienne as they approached the table, like a man on his honeymoon. She hoped the feelings stayed with him. He deserved to be happy, even if she wasn’t the one who could make him that way anymore. She cleared her throat to get him to extract himself somewhat from the voodoo bitch witch.

“I know you won’t believe me, but I’m sorry to interrupt. You don’t mind if we join.”

She said, and she sat down as if they’d invited her profusely. It wasn’t like they were going to tell her no, considering what she was giving them both.

“We would leave you to your private celebration, but it’s good optics if we’re all celebrating together.”

 

[Fathom]

Hellfire -- The Great Hall

All throughout her talk with Haleigh, Jack had been silent, but still waters ran deep. They would likely talk about it later, when they were alone. For now they had reached the Great Hall, and it was a very public event. Haleigh and Alek decided to go sit with Zach and Brienne, and Alek made a very interesting comment about ‘the new Black King.’ When Heidi looked at Jack for further information, he just shrugged and then suggested they sit with the new Red Rook.

They joined Calder, who leapt up to greet them, possibly the most respectful new hire Heidi had yet seen. Everyone else always seemed to think they were made when they got promoted to the Inner Circle, it was refreshing to see someone who still felt they had something to prove, because truth be told, the new ones always did. She was willing to give him more slack than most, though, because he’d saved her Queen yesterday. And he called her ma’am, with such deference. But that was hardly necessary.

“Please, call me Heidi.”

She told him as she sat down, and then she broke the ice with a question. He was a handsome enough specimen to get girls even without the title. He chuckled about it nervously, and said he was trying to keep his head down despite the unbelievable offers.

“Oh yes, I know. Most of the pawns would literally kill just to get as far as the Portrait Hall of the White Wing, but you’re wise to be playing it safe while you learn the ropes.”

She replied, as she poured some sparkling water into a champagne flute and fished her poison vial out of her neckline. She put a couple of florescent blue drops of venom into her drink and swirled it around as he remarked that last night’s party was crazy. She flashed him a bright smile.

“Yes, I quite enjoyed it, reminded me of my youth. But it wasn’t as crazy as I heard yesterday’s breakfast was. I understand you saved My Queen, I’m quite grateful for that. If you ever need anything in return, don’t hesitate to ask.”

Calder: Neptune, sir - I wanted to thank you for putting in a good word for me with the Queen. I don't think I'll ever be able to repay you.

Heidi looked to Jack as he responded.

Jack: I’m sure you’ll get your chance sooner than you think. Tell me, Calder. When you copy powers, do you get the passive defenses of the person as well, or just their offensive abilities?

 

[Siphon]

The Great Hall

Calder couldn't believe that the Red Bishop & White Knight actually wanted to sit with him. This was like the best day ever. Except for the feeling that he might puke at any moment.

Heidi: “Please, call me Heidi.”

He smiled in spite of himself at the very idea of using her first name. They all sat, and she very kindly asked him about being the new Red Rook. Which didn't even sound believable in his own brain. He hadn't been lying when he said that several females from the ranks had made very suggestive offers if he could show them his new room in the Red Wing. Of course, he hadn't actually moved into it yet.

Heidi: “Oh yes, I know. Most of the pawns would literally kill just to get as far as the Portrait Hall of the White Wing, but you’re wise to be playing it safe while you learn the ropes.”

He nodded, taking a large sip of his beer.

"Well, I wouldn't want to get kicked out on my first day."

He chuckled. He watched her put a couple drops of something blue into her glass, and decided not to wonder what it was. Probably best if he didn't know. He brought up the events of the night before, which had certainly made for an interesting one.

Heidi: “Yes, I quite enjoyed it, reminded me of my youth. But it wasn’t as crazy as I heard yesterday’s breakfast was. I understand you saved My Queen, I’m quite grateful for that. If you ever need anything in return, don’t hesitate to ask.”

Her talking about her youth as if she wasn't young now made him raise an eyebrow, but he didn't comment on it. It had been drilled into him that you never asked a lady about her age. But he blushed a bit when she brought up the brunch the day before and the White Queen.

"Well, er - I'm not sure I really saved her, but I'm glad she's alright, in any case. And the children."

He held up a hand.

"No need to reciprocate, though any other advice you have to share would be greatly appreciated."

He also thanked Neptune - the Queen had said that he and Savage had vouched for him when she was deciding on a new Rook, and he'd be forever grateful for that. He said he didn't think he'd ever be able to repay him for it.

Jack: I’m sure you’ll get your chance sooner than you think. Tell me, Calder. When you copy powers, do you get the passive defenses of the person as well, or just their offensive abilities?

He nodded his head, swallowing another drink of beer.

"Well, it's not really like you get the whole person at once, right? Let me see...how to explain it...it's like I can just tell, what powers people around me have. I don't know how, I just do. And then I can pick which one I want. But it's only ever been one at a time. So, say someone can read minds but also is telekinetic? I can't do both together, I'd have to pick one. But it can be any power they have. As far as I know anyway. I guess it's possible someone sometime had something hidden, but it's never come out if they did."

He was silent as he thought about it a second, then shrugged his shoulders. He wondered if the White Knight would get antsy around him after this talk of his powers. A lot of people did. But it had been better here than any place else he'd ever been. And the Red Guardsmen accepted him as one of them, which was the greatest gift he had ever received, and why he would never do anything to hurt his King or Queen.

Wouldn't hurt to be clear about it, though.

"But I want you to know, I don't steal powers, I swear. I only copy them. It doesn't hurt anyone."

 

[Prophet]

The Great Hall

Cameron had gone from inspired to irritated as he moved with a smile to the room, socializing at many tables, to those without title, because that's what you did in times of uncertainty - you reassured the people that they were safe and protected - You didn't throw all sense of decorum aside and just sit in The Great Hall of the Hellfire Mansion as if it were some high school cafeteria, showing alliances so brazenly.It disgusted him, despite knowing he had a hand in all of it. If the others wanted to show their cards like that - it was their perogative, but it was not necessarily how we wanted to play. He would leave Brienne to be the one to inform the others of her new status as Reagent to the White Court - hopefully in a dramatic, barbing kind of way to somebody at home, and let the information spread from there. Announcing it at breakfast would be too much of a "show". His eyes narrowed back into the face of one of the members of The White Court as he smiled, grabbing a flute of champagne from a passing tray, taking a sip.

"Yes, well all weekends at Hellfire are like this actually. We just take turns being the crazy one. Simply my turn on the dance card, you see."

He faked to the guest as his senses alerted him to his wife and her entourage. He gave a silent grimace to see Haleigh walk in with Alek, which flashed into rage for a moment. Cameron thought about how fucking easy it would be to tip all of this into his favor. In five minutes flat he could have laid this entire club to the ground, and dominate their psyche into following him. He could turn Alek into a squaking fucking chicken and step on his neck. The others didn't realize that this was him practicing restraint - but Haleigh did, and maybe that said something. Perhaps his wife did have reason to fear him. But it was also that fear that she loved, and it was what he loved in return about her - she was the downfall of all men. There was nobody she could not take down, in one way or another (but in mostly creatively violent and sexual ways). And he was enraptured with the thrill of the chase between them. Their passion and connection came from the energetic understanding that they could completely consume the other, take them over, break them. So why was he so worried?

"Enjoy your meal. And again, thank you for coming. The White Court values your loyalty."

He could sense Heidi's discomfort as she made small talk with Jack and the new Red Court appointment as Cameron what his wife could have said to her to make her feel so conflicted, but he had an idea. Haleigh was pissed that he had sent his Knight on a mission and that she carried it out, because it made her feel like Heidi might not be as loyal as she thought. He did not wish to put Heidi in such a position, but decided the best course of action would be to do nothing. Cameron had not been disloyal to Heidi, he was not using her as a pawn in his game whatsoever. He wanted her for the White Court based on her dedication to Camille. She was the best kind of loyal, and Haleigh's paranoia would eventually work in his favor.

The White King made sure to wait until his wife and her fuckdoll were seated before deciding he would sit exactly where he was supposed to be - at The White Table in the seat of the King. Everyone deciding to blur the lines made it easy for him to show where he stood - The White Corridor. Slowly he made his way over, the voices of Gia and Erika becoming clearer to him as he went....

 

[Pathfinder]

The Great Hall

Gia: "Look at this. The White Princess still thinks she's relevant when everybody else knows she's unrelevant. How sad."

Erika looked at her own perfectly manicured nails for a moment with an amused but bored smirk as she turned her steely eyes back towards The White Bishop.

"I believe the word you were looking for is irrelevant. No judgment here, I mean, I know you grew up as uncultured swine, but you might want to pick up a book every now and then. It could do you some good."

She chuckled to herself sarcastically.

"Or I don't know..pick up your phone. I'm the talk of the fuckin' town right now, darlin'. I'm not going anywhere."

The White Princess was a narcissist, but she felt the reward of saving Ava's life would last longer if she didn't necessarily talk about it so much. And people were much interested in things they didn't know or were none of their business. Erika then pressed Gia on getting involved with her family's domestic dispute. The White Princess wasn't ignorant to the fact that Cameron and Haleigh's display was very, very public, and she couldn't control everyone. But she COULD put a bitch in line when needed.

Gia: "You know, at least I tried to help. Look around you, Erika. Everybody is commenting on your family's personal life."

[flatly]

"Well at least they have the good sense and breeding to do it behind our backs. None of them decided it was a good idea to intervene, get it?"

Gia: "That, as I'm sure you already know, is NOT acceptable. People know that there are cracks starting to form in the White Court, Erika."

"It's Princess. You will not forget the differences in our status ever again."

Erika leaned in, speaking lower but a bit less aggressive.

"They saw a married couple fighting. They saw the drama that is Hellfire. They saw why people are willing to kill for a membership. Nobody truly wants unity here. They want entertainment. So if you ask ME, I'd say your cracks are actually not there. *I'd* say that we gave them one hell of a show, and I'd also say it wouldn't be long before people start betting on the wildcards."

Gia: "We CAN'T let that happen. I don't know how we're going to do this, but we need to keep our Court from crumbling to the ground."

Erika rolled her eyes dumping a good amount of Bailey's into her iced coffee before taking a long sip. She didnt get it.

"Lower your voice. 'Crumbling' to the ground? How dare you."

Gia: "The White Court needs to show everybody that it is a united front and I'll be damned if anybody tries to take advantage of us right now."

"I agree, Gia. Even if that person happens to be from within our own house."

[taking a sip]

"Look Gia. Cameron is my brother, Haleigh's my sister in law, I used to flick my meat bean after watching Zach play basketball in the gym as a tween, and Ava was the first person to ever give me bangs..."

"That BITCH."

Erika exhaled heavily.

"She knew my forehead could never pull those off - anyway, there is nobody who knows these people like I do. And I'm not part of their little club, I never have been. They've always excluded me - but now? That means I know exactly who wants them dead, or who's said a bit too much at a party over the years because they thought I was on the outs with my family. I know what I'm doing."

[smirking]

"And frankly, you're the Great Value brand of what I'm capable of doing to others, though your work is somewhat admirable, if not sophmoric. I take my new role seriously, and while The King and Queen work through their issues - it falls to me to keep things together, and I am."

Erika leaned back in her chair.

[mockingly]

"Which meaaannns...If I ask you to check The White Queen's beverages before breakfast...you do it."

[succinctly]

"Leave the leg work to me. You? you know of NO cracks. It is business as usual. It is nothing to worry about. And keep your ear to the ground, like a good bishop should. You are The Inner Circle's rogues. Got it?"

Just then Erika's brother made his approach. She shot a glance over to him.

"About time. Please tell me these are not the final seating arrangements? This is abhorrent."

 

[Discord]

The Great Hall

"Okay, I'm all for grand gestures, but that was tacky."

Daniel watched a little digusted as Amanda brought her gifts over the European White King and Queen. Daniel had no real problem with Juliette, but when it came to Liam, he had been decidedly team Camille. He thought of her fondly still to this day. She was such a beautifully broken woman. She was the realized version of a porcelain ballerina, trapped in a music box, doomed to do one dance for all of eternity. Her connections had garnered her much success in Hellfire, though Liam never fully appreciated it. He consumed her completely, until there was nothing left of her but a valium addled shell. She was also far smarter than she was ever given credit for. Daniel had been very close to Rebecca. He would have ruled as her King had the original uprising occured. Rebecca and Camille had planned on taking power with Meridian Industries - continuing Jean Luc Dupont's work on the T Virus, as given to him by Adam Chandler and Christopher Victory - a forgotten part of the European Branch's history. Hellfire Europe's work on the T Virus was not just the work of Dr. Dupont, but of Daniel's father - Dr. Travis Reed - the original Red Rook of Hellfire Europe. And when his father had long retired from the courts, it was Rebecca who enlisted him in rekindle the new work. Daniel's ties to Hellfire Europe ran deep, so being on an American court was a political statement to Daniel. The New Black Bishop liked to work within the rules - he saw little to no value in simply killing and taking what you want it. It was more valorous to win the long game. He glanced at his watch and yawned.

"Can everybody get here and eat so I can take a bloody nap?!"

He had been at the brunch for hours, overseeing setup, making sure that things were safe for his court and his queen. There had been attempts made on her life, and Daniel would not allow another on his watch. He was an information broker and it would not do him well to have somebody get the jump on him. Not when he was so new. More than anything, he wanted to lay in his bed and shamefully eat a platter of hearty American bacon in peace. If he was going to keep his perfect figure in America, he was either going to have to train harder, or be bullimic, and both fortunately and unfortunately, Daniel was born without a gag reflex. Speaking of, The Red Knight was looking particularly sexy this morning. American Hellfire was worth it for the eye candy alone - and Daniel wanted a ride on that thick hunk of a man, but he was too scared of Ashley to make a move. And he had to be smart if he wanted to achieve his goal - becoming a Prince. It was the entire reason he had come on this visit. There were no Princes on either court. It would be a distinct title. A declaration of an heir apparent to an American court. He had been boxed into a corner in London, and he needed to restrategize, and the American court was RIPE with opportunity. He was still about bitter about Helena's death, so he could not wear red, and between Ava and Haleigh, Ava was definitely the more glamorous one. If he was going to rule Hellfire, he wanted to look good doing it. He wanted to be a Plastic. And now he was. The American Court was in dissarray, and it left so much opportunity for intra-court alliances, relationships. Power was up for GRABS, and Daniel's pedigree in Hellfire was as good as one could get without being born of royalty. He was excited for the future.

"What in the hell is everyone doing? They're properly fucking the breakfast service!"

Why had The Inner Circle decided to shuck any sense of regulation to something as simple as breakfast. Could they not just let things be easy? It was bloody eggs and bacon. Daniel could work with what happened this weekend across courts, but he also knew that these people were at their limit. They needed a BREAK. They needed this trip to be OVER. He didn't want any more surprises. He wanted people to enjoy breakfast and be on their merry fucking way. From the crowd, he saw his mother, Delia Reed. A former Red Bishop herself for a brief period in the 90's, she was now a wasp who's life was Hellfire social events and niche philanthropic causes - oh and she collected terrible art. Thankfully, she knew better than to interrupt him while he was working and for that he was grateful - he became a regular poofter around his mother. Since neither Amanda or Ben could be bothered to remove their heads from their own asses, Daniel made sure to address them and direct them accordingly.

>> Com Link: "Uh guys, can we get seated already. Some of us have been on graveyard. Sit at our assigned table and no other. Please, of course..."

Daniel watched as Cameron took a seat at his table alone. There was something sexy about Cameron being so off balance. Perhaps he should have waited until he was less horny before accepting a position on the American courts. He was still trying to get a pulse on Cameron. His connections across courts ran deep. Ava and Cameron were supposed best friends, but it seemed as if his Queen wanted to strangle the man half the time. Still, she showed loyalty, and the fact that she chose Cameron to interogate Brienne meant something. She trusted Cameron. One of Daniel's first objectives was to improve relations between the White and Black Court - it was the better option. Haleigh was all over The Red Court. The Black Court could grow taking advantage of this lovers' quarrel, and Daniel could help make that happen without getting any blood on Ava or John's hands. For the first time in a long time, Daniel felt excited and relieved that there was still game left for him to play. He was not down for the count as he had been feeling in London. It made him happy enough to possibly eat bacon in public. Moving through the crowd with ease, Daniel sat down in his assigned spot as Amanda and Ben made their way over.

"John and Ava are tied up with Bretta O'Malley. I sent a diversion should it be necessary. Name of the game is getting this visit wrapped UP, yeah?"

Ben: "Correct. Sooner we get everyone down here, sooner we can get things back to normal."

Amanda: "We aren't visiting normal any time soon. We are barely cresting the wave. We've got a long road ahead of us. Speaking of which - the acquisition and creation of Tricell is to be our greatest priority. We need to get in there, figure out which of Archer's men we can work with, and fix the fiasco in Tokyo that's going to make this whole entire thing void."

Daniel sighed. It turned out that Archer Fairchild was far more connected in Japan than anyone believed. The connections he had went radio silent upon the news of his death. It was an iron curtain, and most of Archer's business came from the capital city. If they were going to justify taking Archer's business from the european courts, they were going to have to get the Japanese mob to get on board with them.

"Does this mean we are going to Tokyo?"

Ben: "I mean....I have no doubt that as soon as that Euro Jet's wheels lift from the ground, we won't be able to find or contact John and Ava until further notice."

Amanda: "And it's probably going to be bloody. My intel leads me to believe that we are probably going to have to sever a lot of heads to get back on track. Though something tells me Daniel is much of the slaughtering type."

Daniel smirked.

"Not every devestation is bloody, Amanda. I get my jollies from the beauty of the breakdown. But to answer your observation, I will say this - nobody has ever seen any of my ex-boyfriends since I've dated them."

Ben: "A regular Black Widow."

"I'm so glad we murdered The Avengers. They gave us all a bad name. Those costumes..."

*Shudders*

Amanda: "But for real - John and Ava may get to play, but we need to get to work. And something is telling me that we need to remove ourselves from this whole fiasco for a minute. It's about to cannabilize itself. We'll do better to help pick up the pieces. I'll send an itinerary, but we're going. Capeesh?"

"What are you a Nefaria?"

Amanda: "No. I'm the long lost Zaccharria sister."

Daniel laughed as he waited for the festivities of breakfast, unsure of who was hosting and who was to say what. Whatver the case, Daniel watched in anticipation, celebrating his decision to jump ship.

 

[Neptune]

Hellfire -- The Great Hall

Heidi chatted with Calder, while Jack brooded a bit. Yes, Cameron King was a problem. A problem for Jack’s own King, who wanted to have Cameron’s wife for himself. A problem for said wife, Heidi’s Queen, who feared for her life and the lives of her unborn children. A problem for Jack himself, who feared for Heidi and the precarious position Cameron was putting her in. And most of all, a problem for Heidi, who was known to fall victim to loyalty in times of upheaval. Lucky for her, and all of them really, Jack was a problem solver.

He couldn’t take his eyes off of her. From the way she tittered when Calder admitted he didn’t want to get kicked out on his first day, to the way she poisoned her drink, with a brilliant smile for the insanity of the party the night before, everything she did was sexy. When she looked his way, her eyes the sparkling green of the sea, he drowned in them, and gladly. Calder broke the trance, when he told Heidi that he’d be appreciative of any advice she gave, and her gaze released him as she looked back at the Red Rook.

Heidi: Hmm, so much advice to give, and not enough time at breakfast.

Her lilting English accent was enchanting, and the way one strap slipped down off her shoulder, distracting.

Heidi: Let’s see... I suppose I should begin with the most important caution. No one will bat an eyelash at you taking any of the pawn girls - or boys, if that’s your thing - to your room. Everyone in this mansion is your prey now, even, to some degree or another, the rest of the Inner Circle.

Jack saw her reach to slide the strap back up her arm as she paused to take a sip. He wished that they didn’t have to be here at breakfast, that they could be swimming in the Aqua Ring as they often did in the morning. But even after breakfast she’d have to work, overseeing security for Cameron’s mistress and whelp.

Heidi: However, I’d be careful who you pursue, within the titled ranks. And there are a few out of your reach. The Kings and Queens, namely. Unless they proposition you. Then it’s a different story altogether.

“Right, in that case Heidi wouldn’t recommend you deny them.”

He said gruffly. She looked over at him again.

Heidi: I’d call it unwise, especially if it was your own King or Queen. You wouldn’t rebuff the Red Queen’s advances, would you Jack?

“I would.”

He replied, his gaze trapped by hers now.

Heidi: For Arthur’s sake....

“For yours.”

Heidi: Why Jack, I hadn’t realized we’d reached that depth, darling....

She replied coyly, and it seemed she was trying to hide a smile. He felt better, after that. Like he’d set a weight down. Her strap slipped down her arm again, and this time he didn’t hesitate to reach out and slide it back up onto her shoulder. Even just grazing her skin was a pleasure. Heidi was watching him now, and he didn’t mind.

Calder sincerely thanked him for putting a good word in to make him Rook, saying that he didn’t think he’d be able to repay the favor, but Jack was certain the chance would come. He asked after the man’s ability, knowing only a little about what Calder could do and wanting the details. Calder offered them some clarification, and Jack took his mental notes.

Heidi: Oh, what a wonderfully interesting ability to have. To change powers, like putting on a different hat. You must never be bored. Do you have favorites?

Jack drank as Calder answered Heidi, and then asked more serious questions.

“How long does it last, minutes, hours? Must you stay near the person?”

 

[Juliette De Lacroix]

Hellfire - The Great Hall

Juliette started breakfast watching the dog warily over the rim of her glass. She didn’t trust the beast to behave for very long, though she could see he was trying to please his master. Liam, Mr Congeniality, was bridging the gap, and keeping Juliette’s glass full. It wasn’t long before she was a bit blooddrunk, and by then the animal at table seemed quite tame, even if he was growling about what he would’ve done to Archer if Ashley had been attacked.

Juliette remarked that her and Liam were lucky that they’d been allowed to befriend Ashley, who replied that her Knight wouldn’t deny her enjoyment. Juliette nodded, as that seemed to be quite true. He may have been feral, but for his Queen he appeared obedient. Liam brought up motion pictures, more specifically ones that pertained to werewolves and vampires, and Juliette joined the conversation again. Ashley told them of a rumor she’d heard and that made Juliette smirk conspiratorially, as she confirmed it at least partway.

Ashley and Liam moved on to discuss plans after returning to London, as the American Black. Knight approached bearing gifts. Juliette was impressed with hers, and so moved she forgot to speak English. It wasn’t a problem, though, because she remembered that Amanda spoke French the other night, so there was no reason to repeat herself in translation. Liam joked that he needed to return to his lessons.

He was making progress, more than he gave himself credit for. He could read it fairly well, and parse it out with time. He just got lost if she spoke too quickly. Ashley commented that he had a good teacher, if austere. But the Red Queen really commanded attention when she indicated she might like that, herself.

“Elle me fait la revouloir.”
[She makes me want her again.]

Juliette told Liam, slowly, so he could catch the words. She could see the lust in his eyes when he agreed, and began to wonder if they could convince Ashley to one more interlude before they left. She caught the Red Queen’s gaze, with intent to enthrall, but the sharp sound of glass on the tabletop broke her concentration.

Savage: I could teach my Ashley to speak French!

Juliette looked over at Liam in astonishment. From his mirrored expression, he hadn’t known either. Apparently Savage learned from trading with the Canadians. So the dog knew tricks, wasn’t that just splendid. Juliette hid her disdain by drinking. Liam recovered for them both.

Liam: Marvelous, Soon we’ll all be conversing more romantically. A very passionate language, French.

Savage: Rather cloying, if you ask me.

“Dze volf ‘as a very strong savage instinct, and vants to remain vild.”

 

[Siphon]

The Great Hall

Heidi: Hmm, so much advice to give, and not enough time at breakfast.

Calder scooted forward in his chair, interested in what she was going to say and excited that she was willing to share some tips with him.

Heidi: Let’s see... I suppose I should begin with the most important caution. No one will bat an eyelash at you taking any of the pawn girls - or boys, if that’s your thing"

"Girls!" he interjected.

Heidi: "- to your room. Everyone in this mansion is your prey now, even, to some degree or another, the rest of the Inner Circle.

The way she said "prey" sent a shiver down his spine. A feeling washed over him that maybe he was in over his head. He was just a soldier, after all.

Heidi: However, I’d be careful who you pursue, within the titled ranks. And there are a few out of your reach. The Kings and Queens, namely. Unless they proposition you. Then it’s a different story altogether.

Jack: “Right, in that case Heidi wouldn’t recommend you deny them.”

His mind was wandering down the rabbit hole of what it would be like to be propositioned by the Red Queen when he turned his attention sharply to the Bishop. It seemed like something else was going on between these two.

Heidi: I’d call it unwise, especially if it was your own King or Queen. You wouldn’t rebuff the Red Queen’s advances, would you Jack?

Calder was in the process of shaking his own head no, when Jack answered her.

Jack: “I would.”

"Yeah, I don't welcome the idea of having my arms torn off by a werewolf either...hey, do you think you'd actually become a werewolf if that happened? Would your arms grown back?"

But they weren't paying attention to what he was saying. He wondered if he asked Savage about the arms growing back thing, would he answer?

Heidi: For Arthur’s sake....

Jack: “For yours.”

Aw, that was sweet. These two really were a serious couple. In Hellfire. It was nice. And gave him hope.

Jack asked after his powers, which was at both times an easy topic for him and a difficult one. Despite the acceptance he had found here at Hellfire, the worry never really had left him that people wouldn't understand his powers and would hate him for them.

Heidi: Oh, what a wonderfully interesting ability to have. To change powers, like putting on a different hat. You must never be bored. Do you have favorites?

It made him feel better that she didn't seem horrified, and that she thought him interesting. He smiled, relaxing a bit.

"I'd say I like trying out the new ones the best - even though sometimes that can go horribly wrong. Your entire body bursting into flame sounds a lot more fun than it is..."

He got a little more excited in the telling, now that he'd gotten going.

"But there was this one guy? He could make people instantly sober. No matter how drunk they were."

He chuckled, raising his hands.

"Weird, right? I sat at the tavern all afternoon and people didn't know what was going on."

He laughed.

Jack: “How long does it last, minutes, hours? Must you stay near the person?”

He took a drink, and shook his head.

"When I first got my power, I had to touch the person. But now, I just have to be in the area. A room like this? No problem. And once I've copied it, I have it. Depends how much I use it how long it lasts, but generally a couple hours. It's gotten longer as I've gotten older."

He reached for his beer again, and couldn't help saying lowly into his glass, "That's what she said."

 

[Persephone]

She really didn't want to go to another damned event, especially after what transpired the night before. As far as Ava was concerned, her hospitality ran out the moment Archer's hands were around her throat.

John: "Because we need to show that Archer's actions haven't affected us, and to project the strong, vibrant court that we are."

Logically yes, John was right. They still needed to show they were a unified court, especially after what had happened. But still, Ava tried to suggest calling in sick, deciding that going to Paris seemed like a much better use of their time. She began to try and persuade John...and it seemed to be working...until the damn guard called out that Bretta was wanting to speak to them.

"She couldn't have waited until breakfast?"

Ava grumbled, her forehead against John's chest.

John: "Now, she was very kind to us after the attack, I'm sure she has a reason for wanting to see us alone."

"If it's to try and give Cass back? I'm electrocuting her fairy ass back to the garden."

She rolled her eyes at the thought of Cass returning to her court.

John: "I'll let her in."

John went to the door and proceeded to let Bretta in. The Red Queen was looking particularly beautiful and welcoming this morning. It made Ava a bit suspicious. Despite their amicable talk in the lounge the other day about Cass transition to the European Branch, Bretta was the type of woman who smile to your face before planting a knife in your back.

John: "Bretta - good morning. You're looking lovely today. Please, come in."

Bretta: “Thank you. You look quite dashing yourself.”

Ava's eyes darkened ever so slightly.

"Good morning, Bretta."

She added sharply with a smile, though it didn't carry to her eyes.

John: "So, what did you want to talk about?"

Bretta: “I was on my way to breakfast when I wanted to make sure that the two of you are alright after last night. I also wanted to offer my sincerest apologies for what Archer Fairchild did to you, Ava. If I had known what he was up to...I would’ve surely put a stop to it somehow.”

Ava sighed and looked away for a moment. This entire situation with Archer was not only embarrassing but haunting as well. She should have been able to handle herself despite having a power suppression collar on, but it took Erika King saving her from Ava literally being killed. It made her look weak, and it made her court look weak. Haleigh may have set a bomb off in both the Red and White courts, but they would only grow stronger because of it - because of their new heirs. The Black Court looked fowl in comparison and it was eating Ava up.

"Forgive my...crassness."

Ava finally looked to Bretta, knowing her greeting was less than welcoming before.

"Last nights events have made me feel a bit on edge. I do appreciate you stopping by to see how I am, Bretta."

If anything, she needed to continue to solidify her growing relationship with Bretta considering none of the other American Queens were caring to do so.

"I know you, nor the other European regents, were aware of Archer's actions. Please don't feel as if you have to apologize on his behalf. I cast no blame onto you, Bretta. He was an unstable pig who couldn't handle being challenged by a woman more powerful than him. He got exactly what he deserved in the end."

Ava tone becoming more bitter at the thought of not being able to kill Archer herself.

"We have started a promising relationship, Bretta. Let's not let last nights events damper that."

Ava smiled warmly at the fae as she took John's hand, her diplomatic side pushing through the resonating anger of the past 12 hours.

"Come, we're already late for breakfast."