Homecoming

[Seer]

<< 24 hours have passed.>>

<< Jessica Marcus is now in her original form, slumbering peacefully within the large black crystal Lord Ravena placed her in back at the London Hellfire Mansion.>>

<< She really IS beautiful, and smart, and powerful. But for the first time in her unusual life, the woman known as Viper had a glimpse of just how high a price she had paid to gain the power she now commanded. Not only had her father used her in the worst way, but she even DIED. Now her current physical state was that of a COPY...a CLONE, although as close to a PERFECT copy as one can get...STILL a copy. The realization of this during her battle with Domino, along with her driving ambition to be the queen her father hoped she would be, caused her to not only come close to destroying Domino, but also her own body and the entire Hellfire mansion!>>

<< NOW, perhaps for the first time, she was truly at rest, just as Domino wished for her to be after they saw and experienced each other on a level no one would ever know.>>

<< A lingering view of her in the crystal stasis before FLASHING away to a pensive looking Domino and calm looking Lord Ravena, who are traveling on a small but no less mysterious, luxury, private yacht. They have left London and are heading to a destination known only to Lord Ravena, off the European coast, An equally private and mysterious ISLAND called Sheena Island.>>

<< The skies around the island are dark, with strobes of lightning inside the dark clouds. There is a mist that seems to flow up from the center the island. This is the place Jessica called home, the place she expected to be when Rebecca had awakened her the last time.>>

<< Once they reach the island proper and dock, Lord Ravena leads Domino, with Jessica in tow. He acts like a sort of tour guide as he points out various land marks and facilities on the island. This place seems to nearly self sufficient and capable of considerable defense and offense if necessary. The flora is lush and beautiful, the fauna is varied and mysterious, with a few animals peering from leafy canopies and other places from a safe distance, watching the visitors make their way to a stone path.>>

<< The path leads them around and up a large hill. Soon Ravena leads Domino to a LARGE mansion, one that DWARFS the Hellfire Mansion in London. This mansion too is a replica, an exact copy of the infamous Arklay Mansion.>>

<< The original mansion was destroyed by the Six , but on this island, there are a great deal of possibilities, as the mistress of the island and the mansion knows very well.>>

<< Ravena takes a moment to give Domino a brief overview of this massive mansion and its significance not only to Jessica but to an overall bigger picture, one that HE plays a role in, even beyond the affairs at the London Hellfire Mansion. He always knew that even after the end game at the London Branch, he would be coming back HERE. He intends to bring Domino on this part of the journey but just like she saw there were things she couldn't account for with Viper, there are other things...other PEOPLE that she will have to meet and be accepted by if she wants to progress....succeed....SURVIVE. She must watch and see. >>

<< This is not merely a homecoming for Jessica, or a field trip for Domino.>>


<< INSIDE the mansion, we zoom the well recognized main entrance & deeper into the more specialized structures of the mansion. >>

<< We see a pair of WHITE high heels and the smooth, toned legs they support, walking across the hard floor.>>

<< Moving up from the high heels, we see a woman in a figure flattering white outfit consisting of a cleavage baring blazer and pencil skirt>>

 

[Malice]

:: As she walks with a slow pace but no less confident demeanor, she surveys the activity around her.::

:: Several months ago, Diana took possession of Sheena Island, seemingly the last known stronghold of Mystech, after the Viper caper with the Six. In that time, she has come to use the island as her own private sanctuary, conducing affairs of the utmost secrecy here. Things that she doesn’t even share with the Sisterhood are handled here.::

:: Recently though, this mansion is filled with more sounds of technology, activity and energy than it has been in months. It is all due to the HOUSE GUEST that has been allowed to reside here, a woman who’s presence is unknown to nearly everyone in this mainstream world, with the notable exception of her HOSTESS, DIANA.::

: Diana notices drones of various shapes and sizes flying about, some carrying pieces of equipment, others carrying tubes of glowing liquids, others still carrying potions and other objects.::

::There are also small gnomes and elves, but these creatures are not your typical kind. They have cybernetic enhancements in various parts of their little bodies. An electric eye here, a cybernetic arm there…they are well made examples of technology and magick combining for the perfect synergy! The very THEME behind the genesis of MYSTECH!::

::Something is taking shape here and it’s quite intriguing, still, all of this hustle and bustle, and other changes currently underway in this part of the large, sprawling mansion and research facility are TRYING Diana’s patience, as is the GUEST responsible for them!::

::The creatures make an effort to keep clear of MALICE as she walks forward. She finally reaches the center of this area and stands there with her arms folded, not looking pleased at all! Her opal blue eyes fixate on her house guest who is just a few paces head of her with her back turned::

I did not agree to allow you to stay here, hidden from the eyes and minds of this world in order for you to REDECORATE!

: Diana says with more than a little ice in her tone as she glares at the woman in shadow::

HOW LONG before you’re FINISHED cleaning up this…

:: Gesturing around her::

MESS you’ve made?

 

[Seer]

<< A staunch contrast to the The White Queens signature look is countered by the appearance of an ornate black stiletto heel with red bottoms jetting out just underneath the foot of a fitted midnight black pant. >>

<< Panning up reveals a form fitting black pantsuit with a silken top which soon leads to the hauntingly beautiful sapphire blue eyes that almost appeared to be made out of glowing ice. The Woman in Shadow takes out a take recorder from her pocket as she brings it to her warm burgundy lips and presses record as the faintest hint of white can be seen behind her. >>

"Vitals seem to be stable. Subjects are highly cognitive...capable of high level critical thinking and spatial relations. Cybernetic enhancements have bonded to their hosts...."

<< A familiar voice startles and interrupts her. >>

Malice: "I did not agree to allow you to stay here, hidden from the eyes and minds of this world in order for you to REDECORATE!"

<< Her gaze becomes wild for a second before clicking the tape recorder off and spinning her heels to meet The Woman in White's face. A split second of a smile curls up in her lips as she senses Diana's irritation. >>

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest, Diana..."

<< She began to walk towards Malice, her long longs seeming to drift across the floor as they walked. >>

"I'm simply adding such much needed updates. A scientist needs her tools."

"HOW LONG before you’re FINISHED cleaning up this…"

:: Gesturing around her::

"MESS you’ve made?"

<< The Woman in Shadow cocked her head to the side for a moment and pressed the bridge of her nose with her fingers before turning around once more to face the flurry of activity going on around the two women. >>

"I believe when our agreement was made...it was a mutually beneficial one. We both made promises to each other. I've held up my end of the bargain...and you need to hold up yours. We agreed that while you helped take care of things stateside I would take care of things here..."

[coldly]

"So, it will be cleaned up when I say it needs to be cleaned up."

<< Spinning to face The Woman In White once again. >>

"And besides...you have more pressing matters to deal with tonight than a small amount of clutter. Lord Ravena has arrived with Maxine DuPont...and Jessica Marcus. They are just rounding the last bit of the stone trail and will be here in minutes..."

<< The Woman in Shadow's icy blue eyes began to light swirl behind her pupils as she walked closer to Malice once more, stopping only a few feet from the woman. >>

"Which means Crimson has ultimately failed. Not surprising though. That woman was in way over her head and ten years behind finding things we've already known about the T Virus for quite some time. A valiant effort..but a failure none the less..."

<< She eyed her manicured black gel nails for a moment, before shooting her eyes up to meet Diana's. >>

"It also means the European Hellfire Club is still in tact..In fact... [pausing for a moment] It appears that the new court is breaking bread as we speak..which could be a problem unless we get Ravena over to our side for good and..."

<< A Sadistic smile appeared on The Woman in Shadow's face. >>

"Something tells me you'll be able to handle that just fine..."

[laughing]

"As for Jessica... my personal reccommendation is to let me harvest the woman and burn that body. I know the two of you have a twisted history, but I remember her as a little girl very well. The advances she made were incredible. She is brilliant and she has already almost taken you out once...something tells me if you wake her up again, there will be nothing left of you outside of your bold post Labor Day fashions..scorched on the floor."

<< It looked as if Diana was ready with a bitchy retort. She placed her hand in front of her in a "STOP" signal as she spoke in an icy and even tone. >>

"I know, I know. You're the most powerful telepath in the world, you already knew this, clean up my mess or you'll have me drooling and licking your boots in no time. Save your bitchy barbs for the work that lies ahead of us...and pray that Sister Mary Justice doesn't let the gift I gave her go to waste like Rebecca did. I'll meet with you once they're gone and it is safe to do so...Good evening, Diana..."

<< Once more she spun on her heels and began to walk down one of the many halls of Arklay Mansion, ready to dive right back into the work she was doing, but still brimming at the possibility of getting to extract as much information as she could from Jessica Marcus' body, light a match and bid the woman farewell. The click clack of her shoes soon faded into the shadows before she vanished from sight altogether. >>

 

[Domino]

:: Maxine stood on the front of the yacht looking out in the great abyss of the ocean, watching the black waves dance around in a hypnotic rhythm. Lord Ravena and herself had left London several hours ago and they were on their way to the next destination of their journey together. When she had come to see him in the hours following Evelyn Pierce's death, she had been angry. More than angry. She was on the verge of a breakdown. Lord Ravena had talked her down and set her on a new path. They came up with a plan. A plan to get Maxine the vengeance she so desperately sought and the chance to forge her own path. Her arrival at The Hellfire Club several days ago had been no surprise. ::

<< FLASH! >>

<< Images of Lord Ravena and Maxine in private chambers of New Anatolia. Ravena is sitting in a plush and luxurious arm chair as Maxine can be seen pacing back and forth, her arms flailing wildly and her tone loud and unapologetic as she spoke. >>

Maxine: "I won't let Rebecca get away with this! I refuse! The only reason I left her alive was in a gesture of good faith to the courts! The only reason ANY of them are still alive are because of my loyalty to Evelyn...and what do they do?! THEY MURDER HER..."

<< Ravena watches with wild curiousity as Maxine continues to pace back and forthe. >>

Lord Ravena: "All in good time, my child. I know there is no way for me to stop you should you decide to arrive at The Hellfire Estate and tear them apart limb from limb...but this situation provides us with a unique opportunity..."

<< Domino stopped in her tracks as she eyed Lord Ravena. >>

Maxine: "You and your cloak and dagger routine. I'm no novice. You've been up to something for quite some time. I know Evelyn was a part of this and I know it involves The American Branch. If WHATEVER you two have been working on has been responsible for her death...I swear to Go--"

<< Lord Ravena cuts her off, slamming his hand on the arm rest. >>

Lord Ravena: "Bite your tongue, Knight! You know better than to speak to me like this. I had nothing to do with Evelyn's death...your anger and outrage will not be directed at me in my own kingdom! Now...

<< He rises from his seat. >>

Lord Ravena: "If you will listen to me..I will explain everything, and if you follow my instructions, I can secure the type of freedom you've always wanted and bring you up to the level you desire..but I am not about to go into business with somebody as impulsive as you...I will give you your "play time", rest assured...but you will listen and follow MY RULES...is that understood?"

<< Maxine nodded. >>

Lord Ravena: "Here is what needs to happen..."

<< FLASH! >>

:: Together they had planned the ordeal, realizing that the death of The Black Queen would send Juliette De La Creaux's campaign for White Queen into overdrive. The scenario had provided itself but the right people needed to be recruited. So Maxine tested them, she teased them and pushed them to their limits. She needed to see who would rise to the occassion, who would stand by them when the dust settled and created scenarios that would ensure their success. The only thing that Lord Ravena and Domino had not planned on was the woman riding along with them tonight...Jessica Marcus. ::

:: Domino tucked a lock of her raven black hair behind her ears as she leaned against the bannister, her alabaster skin seeming to reflect on the night sky. She looked different...more polished and maybe even chic...but as she looked at herself in the mirror before she left, pulling her black leather jacket over her body before leaving for London, she had never felt more like herself in her life, which was the point of what she had put herself through. Like a phoenix she had risen from the ashes and had been reborn. That, coupled with the life altering experience she had on the astral plane with Viper, had caused a surge of energy and a newfound optimism that was only slightly eclipsed by the ominous feeling she had about where she was going. ::
:: Soon a heavy mist blew through as Maxine made her way back inside the yacht to let Ravena know that they were close, and before long they arrived on the beautiful and enigmatic Sheena Island. As they reached the docks and made stepped foot on the soil, a slight wave of anxiety shuddered through her. She was not an empath, but with her enhanced senses she was able to tell that some very dark things had transpired here. The energy was prevalent all over the island as they made their way to God knows where, Ravena stopping every now and then to show her different areas of the once thriving island. ::

"This is a beautiful place...but it's dark..almost haunting...kind of like our "companion.."

:: After a bit of a trek, Lord Ravena and Maxine made their way to a stone path that ultimately gave way to a giant manor in the sky. A mansion that slowly came into realization once Domino had laid her eyes on it. ::

"...This..THIS is where Jessica lived...I saw this place...this is her home!"

:: Ravena began to give Maxine the background of the Arklay Mansion, but Domino interjected...walking forward. ::

"I know the place well, Lord. Let's continue..."

 

[Malice]

<< Her gaze becomes wild for a second before clicking the tape recorder off and spinning her heels to meet The Woman in White's face. A split second of a smile curls up in her lips as she senses Diana's irritation. >>

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest, Diana..."

<< She began to walk towards Malice, her long longs seeming to drift across the floor as they walked. >>

"I'm simply adding such much needed updates. A scientist needs her tools."

I don't need to be reminded about the prudence of sound investments in valuable commodities. It was MY "long range" vision that lead me to invest not only in knowledge but untapped opportunity which allowed me to wrest control of mystech from that bloated old goat Spencer in the first place!

<< The Woman in Shadow cocked her head to the side for a moment and pressed the bridge of her nose with her fingers before turning around once more to face the flurry of activity going on around the two women. >>

"I believe when our agreement was made...it was a mutually beneficial one. We both made promises to each other. I've held up my end of the bargain...and you need to hold up yours. We agreed that while you helped take care of things stateside I would take care of things here..."

[coldly]

"So, it will be cleaned up when I say it needs to be cleaned up."

<< Spinning to face The Woman In White once again. >>

:: Diana smirks a bit as she follows the woman in shadow's movements with her own opal blue eyes::

Be careful. Agreement or NOT...I am NOT bound and helpless to CORRECT an ERROR, should it become apparent that I made one in even entertaining you and this agreement thus far.

"And besides...you have more pressing matters to deal with tonight than a small amount of clutter. Lord Ravena has arrived with Maxine DuPont...and Jessica Marcus. They are just rounding the last bit of the stone trail and will be here in minutes..."

:: She had anticipated Ravena's arrival. This meeting had been set long in advance, which meant that Diana was aware of the goings on at the London Branch for sometime. But to hear that Maxine DuPont, a.k.a. DOMINO was coming, along with VIPER!? Though Malice didn't show it outwardly, she was PISSED. She would have a WORD with Ravena about his need to pick up EVERY..."STRAY" he found along the way.::

<< The Woman in Shadow's icy blue eyes began to light swirl behind her pupils as she walked closer to Malice once more, stopping only a few feet from the woman. >>

"Which means Crimson has ultimately failed. Not surprising though. That woman was in way over her head and ten years behind finding things we've already known about the T Virus for quite some time. A valiant effort..but a failure none the less..."

<< She eyed her manicured black gel nails for a moment, before shooting her eyes up to meet Diana's. >>

:: Diana watched the woman before her. The level of clarity and CONFIDENCE she possessed was certainly more apparent than her...predecessor. It was nearly as fascinating as it was INFURIATING. But it wouldn't be long before Diana WHIPPED HER INTO SUBMISSION! ::

I didn't expect much more from the London Branch's Red Queen.

:: Scoffing as she waved her hand dismissively:::

"It also means the European Hellfire Club is still in tact..In fact... [pausing for a moment] It appears that the new court is breaking bread as we speak..which could be a problem unless we get Ravena over to our side for good and..."

<< A Sadistic smile appeared on The Woman in Shadow's face. >>

"Something tells me you'll be able to handle that just fine..."

[laughing]

:: The fact that Ravena and Diana often mixed business with wanton PLEASURE was not lost on the woman in shadow, as she laughed at her last observation. Malice took a moment to admire her own metallic painted, well manicured nails::

Ravena knows where the REAL power of the Hellfire Club lies and he knows what is looming on the horizon not only for us...but that which we seek. Despite his nature and his HERITAGE :: an indication Malice something ELSE about him:: He wants what WE want.

"As for Jessica... my personal recommendation is to let me harvest the woman and burn that body. I know the two of you have a twisted history, but I remember her as a little girl very well. The advances she made were incredible. She is brilliant and she has already almost taken you out once...something tells me if you wake her up again, there will be nothing left of you outside of your bold post Labor Day fashions...scorched on the floor."

<< It looked as if Diana was ready with a bitchy retort. She placed her hand in front of her in a "STOP" signal as she spoke in an icy and even tone. >>

::Viper WAS a sore subject for Diana, for more than one reason. She would NOT be so easily deterred on rebutting her guest’s rather narrow observation of THAT situation::

You can do whatever you WANT with that runaway petri dish[Viper]. It was YOUR foolish idea to even bring her BACK, knowing the DANGER she poses not only to an obvious enemy, but to US as well.

Viper ONLY succeeded in knocking ME out in our last confrontation because of a well laid and executed TRAP. We can only IMAGINE how YOU...or rather your..."PREDECESSOR" would have been HANDLED by her. I imagine it would be similar to the way Spellbinder DRAGGED YOU ...oh excuse me...I mean HER across the battlefield like a RAGDOLL in the days of VALIANT?

And UNLIKE YOU...:: Diana didn't bother to correct herself this time, as she really was being deliberate in this "confusing the two" on purpose each time she said it:: I not only survived, But I was able to UNDO the damage Viper caused to Black Widow.

One can expect to take a hit or two in battle, but to be DOMINATED, as YOU were, not ONLY by Spellbinder but your NEAREST and DEAREST? At what point do you realize YOU have more than a little to LEARN?

:: but BEFORE Diana could remind her new (or not-so-new?) associate just who she was addressing....::

"I know, I know. You're the most powerful telepath in the world, you already knew this, clean up my mess or you'll have me drooling and licking your boots in no time. Save your bitchy barbs for the work that lies ahead of us...and pray that Sister Mary Justice doesn't let the gift I gave her go to waste like Rebecca did. I'll meet with you once they're gone and it is safe to do so...Good evening, Diana..."

Ah yes…Mary Justice and her merry band of PURIFIERS. For a flatscan, she seems to be handling things a lot better than REBECCA. The fact that the Purifiers are essentially unwitting catspaws for the INNER CIRCLE is more than a little amusing. I’ve always said…use those who are MEANT to be used! And Isis is doing us a FAVOR as she moves toward assassinating William Stryker. She will emerge from the increased scrutiny unscathed and there will be no apparent link to Inner Circle or Sisterhood.

Good evening INDEED

It certainly will be for ME...how long it remains that way for YOU is another story though, my dear.

<< Once more she spun on her heels and began to walk down one of the many halls of Arklay Mansion, ready to dive right back into the work she was doing, but still brimming at the possibility of getting to extract as much information as she could from Jessica Marcus' body, light a match and bid the woman farewell. The click clack of her shoes soon faded into the shadows before she vanished from sight altogether. >>

:: A smile crept over Diana’s metallic glossed lips as she watched the woman’s subtle displays of moxie
In the last few months, the interactions she had with this woman were both intriguing and eye opening. There was so much that was FAMILIAR about her, and yet in all these other KEY ways, she was a completely different person!
Pieces of a puzzle that had made a picture once easily known and poorly regarded, now had impossibly rearranged themselves to form a picture that was the same yet NOT. The woman did not hesitate pick her battles with Diana, and Diana herself often pressed the right buttons to START these little confrontations as she continued to assess and analyze her new house guest. Regardless of the woman’s mystique and [thus far] demonstrated higher level of competence and prowess than that of her predecessor, Diana was NOT going to simply stand there and let this woman LEAD her on a journey of discovery. That NEVER happened. NOT since her life was FOREVER changed by Lord Spencer. And so, their little back and forth ended for now. Diana WAS satisfied with the proof and progress provided by her guest, for NOW.::

:: Knowing that Ravena was drawing near, Malice expected him to have a favorable report along with a special delivery. She’d address him bringing Domino to this place along with VIPER but overall…things were still moving in the right direction::

 

[Lord Ravena]

Sheena Island. Time drew near, and Lord Ravena was rarely if ever late.

He followed Maxine outside as the yacht drew near, then disembarked. Maxine was on edge, almost eager, certainly full of...moxie this evening.

"This is a beautiful place...but it's dark..almost haunting...kind of like our "companion.."

:: After a bit of a trek, Lord Ravena and Maxine made their way to a stone path that ultimately gave way to a giant manor in the sky. A mansion that slowly came into realization once Domino had laid her eyes on it. ::

"...This..THIS is where Jessica lived...I saw this place...this is her home!"

Indeed it is, Knight. This is a replica of the original Arklay Mansion, home of-

"I know the place well, Lord. Let's continue..."

Have a care child! The AMERICAN Hellfire Club is no group of upstarts, and their Queen is no Camille. Tread lightly, be SEEN and not HEARD. Watch and analyze rather than speak and antagonize. The White Queen is as powerful as she can be...mercurial. The talks ahead are for Kings and I will manage.

They ascended the stone path up to the mansion, Viper in tow. Lord Ravena had everything that he promised as well as all that he wished to have at hand. He could see her form standing in the anteroom as he entered with his charges.
He could smell her irritation but he paid it no mind, not much concerned him in any case. He took in her scent as he walked coolly up to her, a smile on his face.

Diana! You are as lovely as ever. I take it that I have not kept you waiting?

 

[Malice]

:: The mage arrived just as the woman in shadow said he would. Normally, Malice would have been aware of his presence the moment he reached the shores of the island, But Ravena's mind was CLOSED to Diana. He possesses a PSI SCREEN, a trait associated with HIGH ORDER, POWERFUL magick users, particularly one group...one FAMILY.::


:: Still, it was not impossible for the telepath/empath to read him in a variety of OTHER ways.::


::As he made his way toward her, she immediately spun around to face him, flipping her hair as she did so. She faced Lord Ravena with very little space between them.::

Good evening, Ravena.

:: Her Voice has a slightly sultry tone to it. She eyed him for a moment, looking him up and down before smirking a bit.::

On the contrary, you're right where I need you to be. I just hope you can deliver MORE than a mere timely arrival this evening.

:: She was one of the few who dared not address him as "Lord Ravena". She takes a moment to note his manner of dress, casually unbottoning a few buttons on his shirt::

You look refreshed and not PALE like the last time. It's an improvement.
I am glad to see that your time spent playing DRESS UP with the amateurs in the London Branch hasn't lead you to FORGET what is priority!


:: She looks past him and notices Domino. What a curious looking young girl. Striking features and piercing eyes. Still, Diana did not ask for HER.::

:: her tone becomes colder, more sinister::

Still, I see you have a bad habit of...picking up STRAYS along the way.

Why is this little girl here?


:: She returns her gaze to Ravena. Her face betrayed a look that was less than amused. She casts her eyes over to the OTHER object now in her presence, the large black crystal carrying Jessica Marcus a.k.a. Viper, now in stasis. As Ravena prepares to explain Domino, Malice adds,::

I appreciate a man bearing gifts as much as the next woman, but THIS ::gesturing to Viper:: leaves MUCH to be desired.


I have no interest or use for this...walking TIME BOMB of a creature. My associate has expressed interest in harvesting her and she will then dispose of the body, INCINERATE IT, actually.


I want to make sure there's NO CHANCE of this hyperactive petri dish possibly causing any more trouble!


:: The cold, cruel tone in her voice as she damned Viper to another tragic death was evident. The White Queen had little care for this woman. This WAS the same woman Domino saw in Jessica's memories, the woman who murdered her infant brother!::

 

[Domino]

:: Maxine watched with wild curiousity as Lord Ravena greeted the strikingly beautiful woman in white. While she knew of Malice, she had never had the chance to meet her in all of her time as The Black Knight of the European Hellfire Club. By the time Maxine was fully active, relations between the two branches had all but fallen to the wayside. Still, there was something about the woman that Maxine couldn't place and it immediately put her on edge. ::

:: She also was less than thrill to see the reception that Malice was giving to Lord Ravena. While she knew that Evelyn and Ravena never had any formal type of relationship agreement, it still somewhat upset her to see another woman entertaining her mentor's gentleman caller. ::

"Well...she certainly seems happy to see HIM..."

:: Her Voice has a slightly sultry tone to it. She eyed him for a moment, looking him up and down before smirking a bit.::

"On the contrary, you're right where I need you to be. I just hope you can deliver MORE than a mere timely arrival this evening."

:: She was one of the few who dared not address him as "Lord Ravena". She takes a moment to note his manner of dress, casually unbottoning a few buttons on his shirt::

"You look refreshed and not PALE like the last time. It's an improvement."

"I am glad to see that your time spent playing DRESS UP with the amateurs in the London Branch hasn't lead you to FORGET what is priority!"


:: She looks past him and notices Domino. What a curious looking young girl. Striking features and piercing eyes. Still, Diana did not ask for HER.::

:: While Lord Ravena had clued her in very vaguely of his involvement with Malice, to see the two of them now so at ease with each other made her somewhat uncomfortable. While she trusted Lord Ravena and was pleased to see him make good on his word...she didn't know him or trust him as much as she had Evelyn..and now that Maxine was on her own, she needed to be able to provide herself protection and safety from ANYBODY who wished to harm her. ::

:: She looks past him and notices Domino. What a curious looking young girl. Striking features and piercing eyes. Still, Diana did not ask for HER.::

:: her tone becomes colder, more sinister::

"Still, I see you have a bad habit of...picking up STRAYS along the way."

"Why is this little girl here?"

:: Maxine made sure not to express what she thought about Malice's comments in her face, but suffice to say, this woman was not making the best impression on her and she couldn't fight the ominous feeling she had about the woman in front of her. ::

:: She returns her gaze to Ravena. Her face betrayed a look that was less than amused. She casts her eyes over to the OTHER object now in her presence, the large black crystal carrying Jessica Marcus a.k.a. Viper, now in stasis. As Ravena prepares to explain Domino, Malice adds. ::

"I appreciate a man bearing gifts as much as the next woman, but THIS...."

::gesturing to Viper::

"...leaves MUCH to be desired."

"I have no interest or use for this...walking TIME BOMB of a creature. My associate has expressed interest in harvesting her and she will then dispose of the body, INCINERATE IT, actually."

"I want to make sure there's NO CHANCE of this hyperactive petri dish possibly causing any more trouble!"

:: The cold, cruel tone in her voice as she damned Viper to another tragic death was evident. The White Queen had little care for this woman. This WAS the same woman Domino saw in Jessica's memories, the woman who murdered her infant brother!:

:: All at once Maxine was washed over with the memories of Jessica Marcus. She was brought back to the little girl in Arklay Mansion watching a younger Diana stand over the bassinett of her infant brother, watching helplessly as Diana exponges his life. ::

"It was her!"

:: Before anybody could begin speaking she stepped forward. She knew she was taking a risk, ignoring Lord Ravena's instructions of being seen and not heard...but she could not allow any of what Malice was talking about transpire. She had made a promise just before returning from The Astral Plane and she wasn't about to break it at the first sign of trouble. Jessica deserved more than that. ::

"Nobody is touching Jessica Marcus except me..and I think you've killed enough of the Marcus children, don't you?"

:: Her face becoming more serious and stern ::

"I don't care what the business between you of two is, but when it comes to her?"

[points to Jessica]

"She is MY business...and I won't leave her until I know her future is secure."

 

[Malice]

:: Before anybody could begin speaking she stepped forward. She knew she was taking a risk, ignoring Lord Ravena's instructions of being seen and not heard...but she could not allow any of what Malice was talking about transpire. She had made a promise just before returning from The Astral Plane and she wasn't about to break it at the first sign of trouble. Jessica deserved more than that. ::

"Nobody is touching Jessica Marcus except me..and I think you've killed enough of the Marcus children, don't you?"

:: Her face becoming more serious and stern ::

"I don't care what the business between you of two is, but when it comes to her?"

[points to Jessica]

"She is MY business...and I won't leave her until I know her future is secure."

:: Diana looks at Ravena the way a person looks at someone who brought a LOSER to the best party in town. But before he can speak, moves past him, brushing her hand across his chest and gently moving him aside as she closes in on Domino. Her cold, disapproving facial expression slowly shifts to a knowing smile and her cold aura washes over Domino even before the two are in close proximity. Diana is already reaching out with her psi powers::

Hello...Maxine.

:: She says in a low tone, dripping with sinister intent::

:: Maxine's thoughts were slippery, like quicksilver. This was due to her altered nature as well as a learned defense mechanism after enduring years of torture. Even without doing a deeper psi probe, Diana could sense this about her. She slowly walked around Domino, surveying her::

:: There were certain thoughts and emotions, however, that RADIATED from the woman. In particular, her recent experiences with VIPER and their astral episode. Domino knew that Malice had murdered Jessica's infant brother, it was a moment etched in Jessica's mind forever.::

:: Domino's painful memories were not as hidden as she might hope, not from someone like Malice. They were as much Maxine's secret SHAME as they were her driving force. It was a pattern Diana had seen a few times before in several noted individuals::

Do SIT DOWN so that we may get better acquainted.

:: Malice's eyes glow and Maxine is FORCED to obey as Diana seizes her mind and it's higher functions, forcing her to seat herself in a chair just behind her::

The road from VICTIM to ADOVOCATE is equal parts THERAPY for you as it is CONCERN from Jessica, isn't it?

:: She circles Domino once more, using her psi powers to LOCK Domino in her sitting position and render her unable to move in any way- Maxine would still be able to TALK, but nothing more. She COULD attack Domino with a full on, heavy handed psionic attack but where would the fun in THAT be? Not when this curious little girl is so RIPE for DECONSTRUCTION! ::

Yes, I DID murder Jessica's brother. And I have EVERY RIGHT to MURDER JESSICA NOW. She was a bad, SPOILED little girl and she became something MUCH WORSE as an adult. If she had gotten her way last time, NONE of us would be here now. She represents an era LONG GONE and truthfully, so do YOU.

::Referring to Maxine's father's aspirations and intent, which motivated his actions toward his daughter::

You've come this far, but you know that you're doomed to be on the outside of WHEREEVER you go. You will never have acceptance, respect....:: smirking at her as she leans in close and then turns back to Ravena, who she sees Domino eyeing:: ....TRUST.

You've known all along that no one will ever truly care about you and your life, such as it is, has no consequence. That's why you can revel in mindless violence. You think nothing of destroying whatever you touch because all the things that ONCE made you a legitimate human deserving kind treatment were destroyed long ago.

But you have no place here, neither does your new found friend Jessica.

I can make this VERY easy for you, Maxine. I'll watch as the light in your eyes goes out for one last time. You won't even be conscious, when your body is burned along side Jessica's, and then you two can comfort each other in oblivion! Won't that be NICE?

::

 

[Domino]

:: Diana looks at Ravena the way a person looks at someone who brought a LOSER to the best party in town. But before he can speak, moves past him, brushing her hand across his chest and gently moving him aside as she closes in on Domino. Her cold, disapproving facial expression slowly shifts to a knowing smile and her cold aura washes over Domino even before the two are in close proximity. Diana is already reaching out with her psi powers. ::

"Hello...Maxine."

:: She says in a low tone, dripping with sinister intent::

"Hello...White Queen."

:: Maxine met Malice's low and sinister tone. ::

:: There were certain thoughts and emotions, however, that RADIATED from the woman. In particular, her recent experiences with VIPER and their astral episode. Domino knew that Malice had murdered Jessica's infant brother, it was a moment etched in Jessica's mind forever.::

:: Domino's painful memories were not as hidden as she might hope, not from someone like Malice. They were as much Maxine's secret SHAME as they were her driving force. It was a pattern Diana had seen a few times before in several noted individuals::

"Do SIT DOWN so that we may get better acquainted."

:: Malice's eyes glow and Maxine is FORCED to obey as Diana seizes her mind and it's higher functions, forcing her to seat herself in a chair just behind her::

:: Domino felt her body lose control of itself as she felt compelled to sit down in the chair behind her. Maxine's gaze turned even darker as her face remained cold and severe as it always was. ::

"When are people going to realize the MISTAKE of trying to control my body?"

"The road from VICTIM to ADOVOCATE is equal parts THERAPY for you as it is CONCERN from Jessica, isn't it?"

:: She circles Domino once more, using her psi powers to LOCK Domino in her sitting position and render her unable to move in any way- Maxine would still be able to TALK, but nothing more. She COULD attack Domino with a full on, heavy handed psionic attack but where would the fun in THAT be? Not when this curious little girl is so RIPE for DECONSTRUCTION! ::

"Yes, I DID murder Jessica's brother. And I have EVERY RIGHT to MURDER JESSICA NOW. She was a bad, SPOILED little girl and she became something MUCH WORSE as an adult. If she had gotten her way last time, NONE of us would be here now. She represents an era LONG GONE and truthfully, so do YOU."

:: Maxine's eyes never left Malice's as she began to circle around her, toting about her right to murder Jessica. How Jessica was a spoiled brat who became a worse adult. That if she had gotten her way none of them would be alive. Although Maxine had seen the depravity in which Jessica was capable of, it was the result of what she had endured. And the things she had endured were due in large part to the actions of the woman in front of her. ::

"And yet here I am."

:: Referring to Maxine's father's aspirations and intent, which motivated his actions toward his daughter ::

"You've come this far, but you know that you're doomed to be on the outside of WHEREEVER you go. You will never have acceptance, respect..."

:: smirking at her as she leans in close and then turns back to Ravena, who she sees Domino eyeing. ::

" ....TRUST."

"You've known all along that no one will ever truly care about you and your life, such as it is, has no consequence. That's why you can revel in mindless violence. You think nothing of destroying whatever you touch because all the things that ONCE made you a legitimate human deserving kind treatment were destroyed long ago."

"But you have no place here, neither does your new found friend Jessica.."

"I can make this VERY easy for you, Maxine. I'll watch as the light in your eyes goes out for one last time. You won't even be conscious, when your body is burned along side Jessica's, and then you two can comfort each other in oblivion! Won't that be NICE?"

:: Maxine continued her cold and icy glare at Malice as she continued to sleep, trying to play at whatever cards she could in order to get some kind reaction out of her. To scare her...but Maxine DuPont wouldn't be ruffled so easily. ::

:: There was a moment of silence...until Maxine BURST out in laughter for a few seconds. ::

"Well..game certainly recognizes game, doesn't it Diana? Please go on..I'd love to hear how nobody cares about me from the woman who's only edge seems to be surviving the throngs of people who wish to see her dead."

:: Pausing for a moment. ::

"Look...I'm a working girl. I like to be busy and I like to get things done. I don't have time nor do I care to entertain things like humanity or vulnerability..because you and I both know that in order to do the things we do...they are worthless attributes. No matter what I might think in my twisted little brain...no matter what your psi powers have picked up are things that I am able to push so deeply down inside of me that none of it matters.."

"However."

"A large chunk of my life was taken from me from people who were CONSIDERABLY less intelligent than I am. I was brutalized physically and sexually and mentally and insert any other form of brutality HERE. And for what? To be used like a puppet for people too STUPID to effect any real change. This one over here..."

[points to Jessica]

"...has been through the same thing, just in a different way. Locked in stasis while she watched her father's empire crumble around her. All because an in over his head MAN thought he could play God and control the WORLD. Tell me that motif doesn't run true for your OWN life? Because for as guarded as you may be mentally, I don't need to be a telepath to see how similar you and I are..."

[thinking for a moment]

"You killed her brother and you took over this place, and I will let your reasons be your reasons...but I'm not stupid. You were victimized JUST like she was, and your entire presentation...your overt MALICE with regards to people and your ability to keep one up above the others...well that is a learned trait from a very specific set of circumstances not experienced by many and survived by only a few..."

:: Her face softened for a split second before returning to it's cold state. ::

"So, if you'd like to kill me? That's your perogative. We both know another notch on EITHER of our belts at this point is of no consequence to either of us. We both know how it ends for people like us...and I guess if I am going to be taken down..it'd be somewhat an honor to be dispatched by the infamous White Queen of all Queens herself..."

[tilting her head to the side]

"Or...you could utilize me in a way that serves both of our goals. All that I ask for is one thing.."

[points to Jessica]

"her safety...at least for now. If I can't get through to the girl..if I can't get her to come around to what needs to be done...I will kill her myself."

:: Maxine leaned back in her chair as she awaited The Woman in White's response. She knew she was being brazen, but then again...that was Maxine. She had suffered through unimaginable torture and despair to the point of which she no longer entertained fear..no matter how deep seated it may have been in her. She was hoping to appease to the business sense and critical thinking skills Diana had. A look in Maxine's head would more than prove her worth to the woman...and there was a part of Diana that Maxine respected in a way that only she and a select few could. She could understand the woman's motivations, and while there was anger there in regards to what she had seen in Jessica's mind, she couldn't help but feel the need to forge what could be one hell of a protective alliance. ::

 

[Lord Ravena]

And so it began. The bitch match. The marking out of territory. Lord Raven took in the view and simply smiled.

Maxine deserved to be handled roughly, not normally something Lord Ravena would allow for his guests but she had disobeyed him, failed to trust him. So he stood by as Malice made her threats to her and to Jessica.

And Maxine did not fail to impress once again, making an offer that he knew Diana would likely find irresistible. In any case, it was time for him to play his part.

Ahem! Ladies!! There is more than enough of Ravena for everyone. And while this child has been naughty tonight so far, NO ONE will lose their life...I insist. Now Diana, end this posturing and release my headstrong Knight to me. Her AND Jessica are my gifts from fate herself to me. I have your gifts in hand.

By now Lord Ravena has his hand on Malice's bottom, first a squeeze and then a sharp pinch, just enough to threaten to leave a mark and more than enough to weaken even the omega telepath's concentration, just a little. Maxine would feel control return to her limbs as the mage grasped her hand with his free hand, pulling her to a standing position.

 

[Malice]

:: Malice lifted her eyebrow, BRIEFLY astonished at Maxine Dupont's moxie. It reminded her of a certain...HYBRID and that alone was enough to earn either brief regard or total DESTRUCTION. Jessica represented a solid link to a past that Malice had all but ensured was UNKNOWN to most, but with her presence, that changed and it was...DEEPLY trouble to Diana. Domino now seemed to ECHO that. Her time with Viper , coupled with her OWN experiences which were tributaries to the main saga of Mystech once again prooved to be a haunting skeleton in Malice's closet that she didnt plan on having to deal with, yet here she was.::

:: Still Maxine was a woman not unlike Diana, it couldn't be denied, especially by Diana herself. Game DID recognize game and with the plans being carefully laid, the picture that she was slowly forming over the horizon, it couldn't hurt to have someone like THIS working for her, someone that would be low maintenance and clearly capable of getting the job done.::

:: Ravena, who was obviously taking more than a little pleasure in all of this, finally intervenes. Thankfully for HIM, he had earned Malice's favor sometime ago and the two DID interact with each other very comfortably, much to the curiosity and slight discomfort of even Domino. She releases her telepathic hold over Domino, all the while smiling at the black knight with a glint in her opal blue eyes. She looked at Domino as though she was the appetizer before the main course!::

You may have your little Knight, whole and in tact, Ravena.

:: She slowly moves her hand down to where HIS was, calmly placing her hand over his and then suddenly GRIPPING IT as she turns into her diamond form and removes his hand from her person without hesitation::

HOWEVER, before you get TOO ahead of yourself, remember that this is MY domain. I do not suffer arrogance lightly...from ANYONE.

:: She walks away for a moment before spinning around to face them again. Domino was now standing near Ravena and the crystal that housed Jessica Marcus gleamed and shimmered a bit. The White Queen pauses for a moment before continuing::

You may have your Knight, and SHE may have custody of Jessica Marcus. My associate will be disappointed at not being able to harvest Viper, Jessica really DOES represent something...unusual and quite POWERFUL in the legacy of bio-weapon technology. But my associate has a number of intriguing projects going, so I'm sure she'll get over that disappointment soon enough.

:: Eyeing Domino.::

You're a bold little girl, if not a bit wreckless. Still, I find you to be...intriguing. And my PSI scan confirms you are telling the truth.

Your offer is accepted, but know this: This is NOT the disney weekend special that isthe LONDON BRANCH.I do NOT tolerate treachery, Nor do I accept weakness or failure from ANYONE who would call themselves an ally, colleague OR serving the Inner Circle.

If you can't control Jessica or if you YOURSELFproove to be a problem, you will BOTH be ELIMINATED in the most thorough sense of the word and NO ONE will be able to stop me.

:: Looking at Ravena as she said this::

AND, Ravena...I do not respond kindly to those who DISAPPOINT me.

You were to bring me a viable genetic sample of one, Heidi Scarborough, a.k.a. Hydra, in the event of her demise.

Where is that sample?

My associate has perfected her regeneration and cloning process, surpassing even MY initial expectation...THAT is why our.."DELIGHTFUL" Jessica was able to pay YOU ALL a visit.

:: Malice scoffed a bit. She DESPISED Viper, but her mysterious colleague, the woman in shadow, had offered to proove to Diana that she was BEYOND the imcompetence of her predecessor and she did a fine job of that in pulling off the seemingly IMPOSSIBLE feat of cloning Viper! Now this opened the door for other truly devious possibilities and Diana was ready to make the most of them!::

 

[Lord Ravena]

You may have your little Knight, whole and in tact, Ravena.

:: She slowly moves her hand down to where HIS was, calmly placing her hand over his and then suddenly GRIPPING IT as she turns into her diamond form and removes his hand from her person without hesitation::

HOWEVER, before you get TOO ahead of yourself, remember that this is MY domain. I do not suffer arrogance lightly...from ANYONE.

Even as she moves his hand, he forces her to use nearly the full measure of her strength to do so. Why? Because she has a nice ass and Ravena preferred his hand there to NOT being there. He ignored her comment as he watched her walk herself into being the focal point in the room.

:: She walks away for a moment before spinning around to face them again. Domino was now standing near Ravena and the crystal that housed Jessica Marcus gleamed and shimmered a bit. The White Queen pauses for a moment before continuing::

You may have your Knight, and SHE may have custody of Jessica Marcus. My associate will be disappointed at not being able to harvest Viper, Jessica really DOES represent something...unusual and quite POWERFUL in the legacy of bio-weapon technology. But my associate has a number of intriguing projects going, so I'm sure she'll get over that disappointment soon enough.

:: Eyeing Domino.::

You're a bold little girl, if not a bit wreckless. Still, I find you to be...intriguing. And my PSI scan confirms you are telling the truth.

Your offer is accepted, but know this: This is NOT the disney weekend special that isthe LONDON BRANCH.I do NOT tolerate treachery, Nor do I accept weakness or failure from ANYONE who would call themselves an ally, colleague OR serving the Inner Circle.

If you can't control Jessica or if you YOURSELFproove to be a problem, you will BOTH be ELIMINATED in the most thorough sense of the word and NO ONE will be able to stop me.

:: Looking at Ravena as she said this::

AND, Ravena...I do not respond kindly to those who DISAPPOINT me.

You were to bring me a viable genetic sample of one, Heidi Scarborough, a.k.a. Hydra, in the event of her demise.

Where is that sample?

My associate has perfected her regeneration and cloning process, surpassing even MY initial expectation...THAT is why our.."DELIGHTFUL" Jessica was able to pay YOU ALL a visit.

Laughing, Lord Ravena produced a pair of vials.

I have the samples, as agreed. And I deduced as much as time went on. In any case, the European Branch will be ready to help and is remade in the image of the pair standing before you. You need not concern yourself with them.

Taking a moment to place his hand lightly on Maxine's hip, Lord Ravena continues.

Knight, your prize is completely safe in her cocoon. Take her and make yourself comfortable. I will see you soon enough.

 

[Domino]

:: Eyeing Domino.::

"You're a bold little girl, if not a bit wreckless. Still, I find you to be...intriguing. And my PSI scan confirms you are telling the truth."

"Your offer is accepted, but know this...This is NOT the disney weekend special that isthe LONDON BRANCH. I do NOT tolerate treachery, Nor do I accept weakness or failure from ANYONE who would call themselves an ally, colleague OR serving the Inner Circle."

"If you can't control Jessica or if you YOURSELF prove to be a problem, you will BOTH be ELIMINATED in the most thorough sense of the word and NO ONE will be able to stop me."

:: After watching a rather overt public display of what some might call affection and some might call "disgusting" unfold in front of her, Maxine was ready to call it a night. She had been through so much in the past few days and all she really wanted more than anything at this moment..was some SLEEP. ::

"Not the first time somebody has told me that...and I'm sure it won't be the last..."

:: Looking at Ravena as she said this::

"AND, Ravena...I do not respond kindly to those who DISAPPOINT me."

"You were to bring me a viable genetic sample of one, Heidi Scarborough, a.k.a. Hydra, in the event of her demise."

"Where is that sample?"

"My associate has perfected her regeneration and cloning process, surpassing even MY initial expectation...THAT is why our.."DELIGHTFUL" Jessica was able to pay YOU ALL a visit."

:: Malice scoffed a bit. She DESPISED Viper, but her mysterious colleague, the woman in shadow, had offered to proove to Diana that she was BEYOND the imcompetence of her predecessor and she did a fine job of that in pulling off the seemingly IMPOSSIBLE feat of cloning Viper! Now this opened the door for other truly devious possibilities and Diana was ready to make the most of them! ::

:: Maxine pursed her lips at this. Why in the world would Malice want to enlist Heidi Scarborough into her ranks? Maxine had known Heidi well, and while she was incredibly powerful...she was also incredibly spoiled, narcissistic and unless her life was on the line, utterly useless. But that was Diana's problem to worry about...not hers. Not anymore. ::

Laughing, Lord Ravena produced a pair of vials.

"I have the samples, as agreed. And I deduced as much as time went on. In any case, the European Branch will be ready to help and is remade in the image of the pair standing before you. You need not concern yourself with them."

Taking a moment to place his hand lightly on Maxine's hip, Lord Ravena continues.

"Knight, your prize is completely safe in her cocoon. Take her and make yourself comfortable. I will see you soon enough."

:: She looked at Ravena and nodded, but not before turning towards Diana. ::

"I don't SERVE on COURTS anymore, Diana...so we can discuss the "terms" of our working together in good time. And the same goes to you. If you can't control YOURSELF or prove to be nothing more than the fodder written about you on bathroom walls...I will awaken and enrage Jessica Marcus in such a way that it will it will go down history...if the world SURVIVES it."

:: She spun on her heels and walked down the hall, opting to explore Arklay Mansion for a bit, and maybe even try to find the mysterious "associate" of Diana's that seemed to be in the business of cloning the deceased. ::

 

[Seer]

<< Malice would have plenty of time to either congratulate or assault Domino, for now, Ravena manages to pry the White Queen's attention from that andon to other things of a more CARNAL nature. Soon, the two of them retire to Malice's master suite, and as the low hanging moon provides soft light over theirwrithing bodies, another pair of "eyes" watches from the shadowed corner of the room. Watching as this unholy evening unfolds in a way that even she cant decide is too much...or too bizarre.>>


<< The woman in shadow and Malice both intrigue one another, though neither would willingly say it aloud. They both sense the ultra rare chance to "pick up where they left off" and that they can accomplish more together than apart. Still, each is not above finding amusement at the other's expense and that includes spying on one another in the most PRIVATE situations, even in this house of secrets>>

<< ELSEWHERE in the mansion>>


<< A lingering image of Domino looking out of a window at the moon; Then she looks over to see Jessica Marcus in her original state, looking so peaceful and beautiful as she slumbers inside the black crystal. Domino won the right to a new future and now she was charged with shaping Jessica's. She always thought she knew her destiny but in the blink of an eye, with one impossible experience on the astral plane, that destiny was forever altered and like anything else she'd faced...she did not shrink back from it. Once she has made certain that Jessica will remain safe in the suite she has decided to occupy for the night, possibly several nights, she decides to explore a bit of the mansion.>>


<< Domino silently prowls the halls and passages. From the memories of Jessica she experienced and her own research into Mystech's past, she found this place to be utterly fascinating and also dark and mysterious. But not even this new place would deter her from what was unfolding as the next chaper in her life.>>


<< She eventually returns to her suite, settling in for sleep...sleep that she hasnt experienced in a long time. Tommorow begins a new path, one that she can't simply smash her way
through.>>


<< No matter where we look in this world, there is always movement. In the light AND the dark. The shadows of a vast, terrible power long thought destroyed, were now changing, MOVING, ever so slowly closer together. The revolution of the London Hellfire club was but one piece of that shadow coming BACK together. Those who survived that revolution were forever changed, battle hardened and would be more focused on what really mattered and not a moment too soon.>>



<<We will see the London Branch again soon enough, along with Domino, Viper and certainly Diana...for whether they like it or not, they are ALL tied together in one...dark...destiny. and just as we witnessed movement in the London Branch, we must not forget that which is underway back in New York city! It is only a matter of time before all the pieces COLLIDE!>>


<< And so we watch...>>