The Blackout Party

[Malice]

Hellfire Mansion- Upper Salon

:: Diana knew EXACTLY what she'd done. Domino was busy chasing after Sharon, and STUPIDLY kissing Haleigh's ass, as if THAT girl was in any position to bestow favor on Maxine? ALICE would have kept Jessica in check as well, which is why she summoned HER at the same time as Heidi and Emiko.::

:: Haleigh made TWO mistakes. She DARED to flaunt her relationship with Ava in front of her, and THEN she shrugged off Diana's WARNING? She may have become Diana's White Princess, but SOME children still had to be DISCIPLINED a few times before they finally knew their PLACE.::

:: And AVA, well, HER thoughts were so plain and transparent, they might as well have light up a runway at the airport! The goddess wanted to kill Diana. What else was new? But there was NOTHING she could do about the course of events that lead to this moment, and while STAVROS had been an EXCELLENT ally to Diana...AVA was something all together different. The girl FINALLY figured it out after all these years, and now, with Haleigh coming here, Ava thought she was going to follow and use her status, and her lifetime membership (the same level that Sharon had) to INSERT herself? She thought that Haleigh becoming a White Princess would make HER an official part of the Inner Circle by what...OSMOSIS?::

::WRONG!::

:: And so...just as Malice had dispatched Heidi and Emiko to REMIND Chrissy of HER duties, now MALICE was reminding THESE OTHERS how things were to be around here, or ELSE.::

STAY where you are, Lord Ravena.

:: Diana commands, as she places her hand on his arm, and lowers it.::

Do NOT interfere, ANY of you :: A direct order to the rest of the courts present:: Just WATCH.

:: She looked at him with a coldness in her eyes. At the same time, she uses her PSI powers to STRONGLY "persuade" non essential personnell to EXIT the upper salon just now.::

My wayward daughter thinks that she is ABOVE my warnings. Let this NOW serve as her PUNISHMENT, her HUMILIATION.

And as for HER...

:: nodding to Ava, who was being STRANGLED by Viper.::

She's getting a TASTE of what will happen to her if she even ATTEMPTS to act on the THOUGHTS in her dark mind that stand out so clearly.

She followed Haleigh here out of...emotional...FAMILIAL impulse, and she thinks that she's going to somehow get the drop on ME?

:: Laughing softly::

She's in over her head...which is rather CROWEDED....

:: A reference to her merging with Persephone.::

Let them BOTH get an OBJECT LESSON.

:: She knew that Domino would pull Jessica back soon enough, but NO ONE from the Courts themselves was going to help Haleigh, and CERTAINLY not Ava.::

Putting Sharon Kelly down was one thing, Scion. Putting ME down? Getting cocky with ME? You're REALLY starting to act a little TOO MUCH like your father. I'm NOT Shadow Weaver, & I think you know what will happen if you cross that line with me. If you do ONE THING to help Ava...her life is forfeit. I'll see to it MYSELF. And YOU will do NOTHING to Jessica Marcus. You brought this on yourself, little girl. Let this be a LESSON. The next time I tell you something....you'll do WELL to LISTEN!

 

[Talisman]

Blackout Party - Lunar Ballroom

Gorgon: "Look...I'll level with you as long as you put the heat away."

< She stood silent for a moment before slowly reaching the hilt on her garter belt, her black manicured nails tapping on the mystical metal for a moment. For nearly a year now she had been in the fight of her life. Constantly forced to defend her every thought and action, constantly having to prove herself despite everybody around her feeling very comfortable benefitting from the amount of research, development and technology she had created. It had been degrading, but it had been neccessary. Kelly had a clear vision of her future and the steps she needed to take in order to get there. But The Blackout Party was supposed to exist outside of all of that. Tonight, she was supposed to be able to actually sit back and reap the rewards of everything she had accomplished thus far. And then Haleigh Davidoff showed up wanting to claim ownership to something she was merely a product of. And now, here was some young, big eyed mutant standing in front of her wasting her evening with his cryptic small talk. She had half a mind to blow him to smithereens and get on with her night. >

< But then again, she didn't want to be the insane woman at The Blackout Party, especially not when people like Jessica Marcus or Maxine Dupont were in attendance. It simply wouldn't be a good look. She removed her hand from the hilt of her pistol and dropped the train of her dress, her eyes narrowing at the man in front of her. >

"Go on."

< He had about ninety seconds before her temper caught up with her. And thankfully, he wasted no time in spilling his guts. >

"My father was a member of a part of MysTech's history they pretend never happened - The London Branch. He thought he was doing important work. But he was a paper pusher, only given a title and job because Adam Chandler and Christopher Victory were interested in my status as a mutant. I was young, wanted to make my dad happy. Mum left years before that. I was recruited easily..."

:: A waiter came by as Benjamin grabbed a glass of prepared scotch that was intended to find it's way to Archer Fairchild. It was smoooth. ::

"My first assignment was to bring in a mutant by any means necessary..Cassandra Johnson. She's gone by a number of codenames over the years, but I'm told that now she goes by Ruby..and that's she posted up at The Parthenon right under..well your "son". Problem was...I was a young squib who found myself painfully in love with the afformentioned mutant. This ring? Witchfire made it to protect me from Ruby's power. I loved her and I still tried to bring her in..because again I was a young idiot. I failed...and rather than return to my father and the hands of MysTech..I fled. Been on the run ever since. I wasn't living the high life in particular, but I do alright for myself. At least I was doing alright until I got bum rushed in Prague by Kristen Pratt..."

< She didn't speak and she tried not to give away any emotion in her face. >

"And so it comes first circle..back to Diana."

< Diana's chamber maid had done some digging and managed to find a diamond in the rough. As much as she couldn't really deign to interact much with flatscans, even she couldn't deny how effective Mockingbird was, though she would never say it. Mostly because she didn't respect the woman. She was a human who basically pledged her life to Diana because she didn't want the world to know her dirty little shame. She thought herself to be a survivor, but she wasn't. She was simply a coward..but a successful one. >

"So you found yourself listening to Mockingbird's song.."

"A legacy mutant...AND a connection to Cassandra Johnson. I HAVE been itching to get my hands on Ruby..or IN Ruby, rather.."

"She gave me the same gambit they gave my father. Told me that I was to be a gift to one of the courts. The reality of the situation is that they hand picked me for you because they think I'll be loyal to them, and that if they hold the promise of Cassandra over my head or the legacy of my father or lack there of that I will moo along with the other cows and you'll be none the wiser."

:: Smirking. ::

"They also think I might be sufficient enough to pop your cork, which rumor has it, is wound VERY tight."

:: Taking another sip. ::

"I was snooping on the arrival of Haleigh Davidoff. I saw how nobody there backed your questioning of her, just accepted it as fine. You were the only one in that room with the balls to say something, and I respect that. I can work for that. I'm a mercenary, usually just do whatever job I get paid to do. But seeing you there, holding your own like that..well, it reminded me that I could work for a cause, one that I believed in. If you'll have me, it'd be an honor to serve on your court. And since I don't like being played with and used as a pawn in petty games of social politics, and it seems you don't either, I think i'd make a good fit. And unlike the femme fatale that stands to your right (Cobra), I would back your plays, Talisman."

:: Benjamin took a step closer, breathing her in. She was more beautiful than he remembered. She had a confidence that had been lacking in Kelly King and it was definitely intriguing. She was older than he was, but a side effect of his mutant ability caused his aging process to slow down everytime he shifted. He looked younger than he was and he used that to his advantage. ::

< So Diana still needed convincing that Kelly was on the straight and narrow. At first, her blood boiled. She wouldn't not suffer this kind of double dealing for much longer. Talisman had a path to walk, and she would walk it with or without Diana. Their partnership was one of CHOICE on BOTH accounts and it appeared that if Diana seemed so eager to find something WRONG with her, continue to TEST her like this, than she might just have to run a few tests of her own. >

< Benjamin was foolish for speaking so openly like this, but she appreciated his honesty. It was ballsy to admit what he had just admitted, but that was exactly the kind of quality that Talisman was looking for in members of her Inner Circle. Outside of intelligence, she valued loyalty above all else. If she couldn't count on Diana for that, she would need to look to her own court. >

< And with regards to popping her cork...well maybe Diana wasn't all that off base >

"Or...you we could forget about all that, find a cozy corner, and make a proper night of it."

:: He stepped even closer, this time his hypnotic eyes a little more serious. Perhaps the alcohol had made him a bit randy, or perhaps he just didn't care anymore what happened. This night had been the most excitement he'd had in ages, and with members of the hellfire club, you could never trust what they said. He couldn't know for sure what anybody within these walls really wanted with him. It was time to stop worrying. She'd either kill him or cast him at, and Ben was a bit of a risk taker, with a bit of a death wish, the latter being a family trait. ::

"Could we now?"

Gorgon: "You can do what you will with my story, but I have put myself out on a limb for you already. I have every reason to believe we are likely being watched in this moment, and if what I have just revealed to you has been heard by anybody with any real power, then I won't make it out of this building alive anyhow. Whether you believe me or not, perhaps you could let me go out with a bang."

"Benjamin.."

< And then...he kissed her. And it was one hell of a kiss. A wave of energy flowed through Kelly's body, so caught off guard that she didn't immediately pull away. She had not experienced feelings like this in quite some time. For so long, after what transpired in her timeline, she shut off. She poured herself into her work, into her magick. The only joy and passion she had was for the experiments that were successful, for the knowledge she had obtained. She had almost forgotten that she could feel this. Titilated, turned on..desiring human flesh in a non surgical way. It was...eye opening to say the least. For a few moments, she allowed the man to kiss him, to get lost in the feeling of passion that was burning in her body. But then. >

<< SMACK! >>

"Get a hold of yourself!"

< Benjamin's face was thrown back at the force of Kelly's hand across his face. She eyed him incredulously, her breathing still heavy, her face a bit flush. >

"I am not some wanton slut in need of uncorking. And you're lucky I don't skin you where you stand."

< She smiled flirtatiously. >

"Just kidding."

< Talisman GRABBED Benjamin by his collar, lifted him up in the air and kissed him passionately for a moment before dropping him to the floor in a heap. >

"I must admit, you drive a hard bargain, and I appreciate your honesty. I am in no need of wayfaring strangers to fill my court, Benjamin. There are specific requirements, specific traits that are required before I could even consider it."

< Taking a sip of hemlock. >

"The Black Court is the representation of my power..of intellect and the blending of science and magick to create or solve whatever problem or solution your mind can think of. It requires intelligence, and the ability to think outside of the box, to be BETTER than those around you, not just shinier. But you've just reminded me of something else, something that I might have overlooked. In order to do these things, in order to solve the unsolveable, it requires...PASSION."

< Kelly pulled Benjamin to his feet and wiped a bit of lipstick from his mouth. >

"You showed me that you are honest..that you believe in loyalty..and you are capable of great passion. It causes me to feel uneasy simply feeding you to the wolves as I should. Tonight...you shall be my play thing. Tomorrow, I will offer you the position of Black Bishop on a trial basis. I will assess your skill level, outside of just your mutant abilities, your actual intellect and we will see if you can keep your head above water. Then we will see if my skill can improve you in anyway. Now..."

< pouring the glass of hemlock out on the ground next to her she smiled. >

"This hemlock is warm. Go to the bar and get us some drinks, and relax yourself in one of the sitting areas. I've got something to do."

< She watched him with raised eyebrow as he walked away, leaving her on the dancefloor by herself. This small moment, had actually done a world of good for her. It had caused her to realize something. Malice and the others had been right in their distance with her. They didn't know who she was. They didn't know the history she had shared with them, a history that spanned long before their installments as Queens of The Hellfire Club. Before The Sisterhood, before MysTech became what it was. Perhaps if they could see that, experience it for themselves...she could garner herself a bit more comfort in the halls. >

< Kelly Shaw was here now, and she wasn't going anywhere. Despite knowing her ultimate destiny and her willingness to walk that path alone, she knew that the path would be easier with Helena and Diana at her side. But they needed to trust her..to know her in a way they hadn't yet. She needed to "remind" them so to speak of who she was and what her life had been with them in her own timeline..and she had just the solution. >

"I think now is a good of time as any...for a flashback!"

< Immediately tapping into the energy of the technology around her, she began to channel her new energy signature, a vibrant emerald green hue that cascaded out in a pulsating and veining way. The DJ booth in front of her became enveloped in the energy as she tapped into this new way of channeling her magick. She felt a static charge all around her body as she weaved her magick all around the entire ballroom as slowly but surely, she ignited a spell. >

"Unlock the lock. Unlock the mind.
Open a pathway through space and time.
Bring it here, for all to see.
Who we were, who they were to me."

< She incanted in a whisper. Her power signature began to cascade out in a sparkling effect as the entire ballroom around her began to shift, to look different, but familiar to the people that mattered. Those in the ballroom looked in wonder as soon, their outfits began to change, going from sleek and sexy to downright scandalous. Glitter, masks, costumes, bare chests and bell bottoms. As the scene changed around them, they found themselves in another place altogether, yet still in the safety and comfort of the Lunar Ballroom. >

< The music in the DJ booth begins to change suddenly, as a new song begans to permeate through the ballroom. It was a song she knew well, and it was one that began to call to both Diana and Helena at the same time, both of them able to hear it in their minds from wherever they were. The spell began to wash over them as they had a sudden awareness that the song reminded them of each other, in easier times, in their younger days, and they felt the need to go to the source. >

< As The Queens made their way to the Lunar Ballroom, they would find it looking very differently, but familiar...because they were about to enter the exclusive front doors of Studio 54! >

[mentally to Helena and Diana as they arrive via the spell]

"I think it's time for a throwback, don't you ladies? Come dance."

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Inner Circle Salon: Sidebar

There was a buzz and a crash of broken glass, and the staff started scrambling like little rodents. A familiar, childlike voice spoke with far too much glee.

Jessica: OH NO! DON'T RUN!

Ugh, who let the T-virus toddler out of her playpen??

Jessica: THIS party is such FUN, ISN'T IT! My daddy would WANT me to have fun, and he would want me to make SURE that NO ONE INTERFERES!

"Yeah, well, your daddy is DEAD, so what he would want is irrelevant."

It was all fun and games until Jessica got the whip out. Haleigh moved fluidly out of the way, narrowing her eyes at Viper, who was really being allowed to run amok here. There were many things Haleigh could say to send Jessica further over the edge, and fighting fire with fire was a well-known specialty of Haleigh's. But Haleigh knew instantly that this violence was sanctioned, or else it wouldn't be happening.

Haleigh was knocked into a wall, and it was a surprise to her that the wall didn't completely collapse. Her short locks fell across her eyes, concealing the flash of fury that was gone by the time she tossed her hair back. Viper ranted on and on like a certified lunatic, and now she was strangling Ava. Haleigh wanted more than anything to rip Jessica to pieces, but she knew this was a setup.

Sure enough, Diana came strolling in, looking most pleased. She commanded everyone to stand down, and made her intentions quite clear. Earlier, Haleigh had deferred to Diana, because it was strategically necessary. She had shown that she was willing to play Diana's game. But she'd THOUGHT she had made it obvious that she wasn't ever going to roll over. Apparently this wasn't the case, since Diana was putting this show on now, in front of a much larger audience. And YET.... Diana still addressed Haleigh mentally, because there were SOME things she didn't want anyone else to hear.

Malice [in thought]: Putting Sharon Kelly down was one thing, Scion. Putting ME down? Getting cocky with ME? You're REALLY starting to act a little TOO MUCH like your father. I'm NOT Shadow Weaver, & I think you know what will happen if you cross that line with me. If you do ONE THING to help Ava...her life is forfeit. I'll see to it MYSELF. And YOU will do NOTHING to Jessica Marcus. You brought this on yourself, little girl. Let this be a LESSON. The next time I tell you something....you'll do WELL to LISTEN!

Haleigh stood up, straightening her dress and lifting her chin to look her mother in the eyes. Their expressions seemed to mirror each other.

With a single thought, consisting of a single word, I put YOU down? You must be kidding. You couldn't possibly be threatened by such a mild retort. You call it getting cocky, I call it being MYSELF. My thoughts will never be hidden from you, mother. You may as well get used to getting a little sass. Now it's time for YOU to LISTEN.

There was the slightest hint of surprise in Diana's glare, but Haleigh pushed on with the force of will she must have gotten from Diana herself.

Our JOINT success is dependent on our JOINT strength. It may please you now to prove to your subordinates that you control me, but IF you continue on with these public 'lessons', you'll damage the appearance of our alliance, and the very fabric of it as well. Would you REALLY respect me if I became a spineless lackey? If THAT is what you want, then I find myself quite disappointed in you. I truly thought you'd offered me this position because you valued me AS I AM, strong and independent. I'll do you NO GOOD as a stooge, and all your efforts will have been a waste. I UNDERSTAND that you require my unwavering loyalty, and that any perceived dissent will sow the seeds of defiance amongst your court. If they see ME getting away with it, they'll think THEY can too. So I WON'T defy you publicly. But I also WON'T be afraid to object to you MENTALLY. You've never SCARED me before, and you don't NOW. You want to KILL me? DO IT. Hell would be a vacation right now. But if you want to WORK WITH ME? You'll have to accept the fact that we are GOING to have differences of opinion. If we can't be upfront with each other, we've no business continuing this little game. Tell your rabid 'niece' to release Persephone. I'll make SURE she doesn't entertain anymore homicidal ideas about my mother.

She could have said it ALL out loud, but she didn't. This was just between them, and that was the way it should stay.

 

[Wallflower]

Hellfire Mansion - Blackout Party - Downstairs

:: It was clear that Archer was no friend to Heidi Scarborough, which both piqued her interest and amused her. Heidi was as big of an enigma around The Inner Circle as Cobra herself was. Both had pasts largely unknown to the others and both had been recreated at the hands of Dr. Kelly Shaw. But their similarities really ended there. It was somewhat comforting to see somebody get under Heidi's skin so easily. Fathom always seemed so blasé about things, it was comical to see her get riled up. Especially when she considered that she had been the one to ensure Archer gained access to the party. She had business to do with the man, but not before she created the right circumstances. In her old life, she had known many a man like Archer Fairchild. They were just fatter, balder and filthier but at the end of the day, they were pigs, and Amanda was uniquely qualified to deal with swine. ::

:: Giuleta was an unexpected guest and unfortunately she would have to ditch the young woman and soon if she wanted to move forward. She just didn't want to leave her there to get eaten alive by Heidi in the wake of Archer Fairchild. This bit of empathy she had just displayed would be something she would have to watch out for in the past. She couldn't go taking in strays, but old habits die hard. The two were following her lead as she wandered through the halls and took a turn in the wing that housed the quarters of The Black Court. Away from the hustle and bustle of the party was a much more quiet and intimate setting, a place that was inspired by gothic romance, a signature design aesthetic of Talisman. Beautiful black roses adorned the tables as candles of varying sizes with black flames illuminated the room. Some people were chatting, others were in any number of provocative positions. The music was soft and hypnotic and it was one of the more "chill" locations of the party. Amanda spun around on her heels. ::

"Alright. To be transparent, I only offered a tour because things seemed to be getting a little bit heated between you and Fathom, and I wasn't about to have a scene like unfold with eyes on me. I think this room would be more suited to more productive conversation, don't you? Have a seat. I will grab us drinks."

Archer: "I already have a drink."

"Yes you do. And soon..you'll have another!"

:: From the doorway she could make out Fathom and Emiko headed towards them with purpose. She made eye contact with Heidi and non verbally shifted her head, discerning which of her guests they were after. When she realized it was the mafia princess, she pulled Gia to the side and pointed in the white court's direction. ::

"It appears you have a date with destiny dear. Go to them. I'll keep your drink cold."

:: As Gia made her leave, Cobra went to the bar and got two drinks from a shirtless and devilishly handsome bartender before sitting down next to Archer, closer than he had anticipted. ::

"I'm glad you decided to show up Archer. You are certainly an exciting guy..if not a bit obnoxious."

Archer: "All part of my charm!"

:: She smirked at him and handed him his drink. ::

"To charm!"

:: The two of them made a celebratory clink of their glasses and took a sip, setting it back down at the table. Archer made a perplexed face for a moment as he tasted his drink. ::

Archer: "Bloody hell this is strong."

:: Amanda laughed ::

"Really? Seems a bit weak for my taste. Maybe you're losing your touch?"

Archer: "Oh no...I'm very good at touching."

:: she rolled her eyes in a joking manner. ::

"I believe it."

:: taking another drink. ::

"So..Archer. I'm a little embarrassed to admit, but it was I that ensured your invitation was received and accepted. I had heard that Hellfire Europe was interested in promoting positive relations among the branches, and I was hoping you might extend a bit of knowledge, and perhaps a bit of help to a girl who's just learning to navigate things. I'm looking for insight for somebody who knows how The Inner Circle works but isn't tied to my own. Feel like helping a girl out?"

:: She watched Archer down the rest of his drink in one gulp, sitting there for a moment in silence, before looking at her with a smile. ::

Archer: "Sure I'll bite. On one condition. Sort of a quid pro quo, if you will. I'll scratch your back if you...well I think we can come up with something imaginative."

"You have no idea. Looks like you need a refill."

 

[Avalanche]

Blackout Party - Black Court Wing

Some Time Later...

"Oh this peach is ripe for the pickin' isn't she?"

:: Archer laughed to himself as he took a sip of his scotch. They had been talking for quite some time now. At first he was just looking to get into her pants, thinking her an easy lay. But it turns out, the girl had a good head on her shoulders. She was looking for connections. Trying to create a little bit of padding for herself, a bit of security should Hellfire get turned on it's head. It was smart. It was the kind of situation that made him realize how polished the American branch was. They certainly knew what they were doing. ::

:: His eye caught the mysterious and beautiful snake necklace that rested just above her cleavage, it's jeweled eyes seemed to entrance him for a moment. Maybe it was a mixture of the cocaine and scotch, but Archer found himself becoming very relaxed, comfortable even. Amanda was easy to talk to, and her beauty was the kind that poets might write about. The room began to spin a bit. Perhaps he was enjoying himself a little too much? ::

Cobra: "You okay Archer? You look a little pale..but you know, being a Brit and all I can't tell if that's normal or not."

"Is it hot in here or is it just me?"

:: Amanda laughed but Archer couldn't find the humor in it. Still, he was determined to collect on his end of their little bargain. He had given her a great deal of information, more than he should have for reasons he couldn't quite understand. Now, it was his turn to get his back scratched so to speak. He sat up in his chair, rubbing his face with his hands, doing his best to perk up. Finally he was able to get a hold of himself for the time being. ::

"Well...now that I have set up The Black Knight, shared my contacts and entertained her chatter..what do you say we go somewhere even more intimate? I assume you have quarters here yes? They don't make you live in the catacombs do they?"

:: He watched as Amanda rose from her chair. Bingo. This was it. Target acquired. Time to go in for the kill. ::

Cobra: "Of course I have quarters here. Very plush, luxurious accommodations. Though, nobody would know that but me."

:: Archer cracked a devilish smile as he rose from his chair quickly. Perhaps a little too quickly. Everything began to spin around him as his vision became distorted. He stared at the now four Amanda's in front of him, trying to catch his balance, trying to shake whatever was happening to him. He began to feel almost paralyzed. ::

Cobra: "Archer? You okay, handsome? Archer?"

"I'm fi-ess jusss..I...feeeeeelll...reaaally..bloody...heavvv...I thiiinnnkkk.."

:: Before he could finish his slurred speech, he found himself falling, crashing through the glass table that separated them, knocking him out cold. Just before he lost consciousness he heard a voice. ::

Cobra: "Oink oink."

 

[Wallflower]

Blackout Party - Somewhere In The Mansion

:: He was as dumb as she had anticipated. Ever since the arrival of Heidi Scarborough and Maxine Dupont to The Hellfire Mansion, Amanda had made sure to do her due dilligence. The American Inner Circle seemed to despise the European branch, yet here were two high ranking members joining their own. She read case files and intelligence briefs, anything that was available to her. Archer became of interest to her because he seemed to be the only one in the entire European Inner Circle who had any real holdings worth exploiting. She also had gathered from his files that he was a tragic womanizer and drug fiend, which was the first foul to Amanda. As a once avid drug user and seller, the first rule of thumb was not to get high on your own supply. She was new to this world and she needed to get things going for herself. It wasn't enough to simply sit there, be pretty and kill on command. So, she invited Archer, made sure he spilled his guts, names included, of potential connections. Then she drugged him, watched him pass out, dragged him to private hellfire club chambers, stripped him naked and hog tied him to the bed she was now standing in front of, watching him sleep like a drunken baby. ::

:: He would wake up and be infuriated, but he had already given her the information that she needed. Even if he tried to blackball her, she had more toys at her disposal, more to offer, thanks to Talisman. She was confident that she could get SOMEBODY to break, somebody she could snipe, especially if they were as easily manipulated as Archer. While others were relieved to sit around, drink and be merry at The Blackout Party, Amanda had a name to make for herself and work to do. For a few moments, she sat there watching Archer. For as dumb and disgusting as he was, he was a rather enticing human specimen, though she doubted he could handle her constriction. When she became bored of the silence, she grabbed a pitcher of water from the dresser and poured it over Archer's face, as he shot up like a cannon fighting against his restraints and the power neutralizing collar around his neck. ::

Avalanche: "AAAAHHHHH!!! What...howsss itt'ss..Whaaattt aree you dooing..."

:: She smiled deviously as she crawled on top of him, straddling him on the bed, before placing a finger over his mouth, alerting him that he needed to be quiet. She cocked her head towards the side. ::

"Shhh...don't try and speak. Your body is too weak too fight. Relax...RELAX..."

:: Amanda stared at him, her eyes shifting to her natural yellow snake like pupils for a split second. ::

"You're recovering from the effects of cobratoxin. I'm still working out different dosages for different effects, so you're lucky to be alive actually..though nicotinic acetylcholine receptor atagonists are volitale no matter what how small the amount."

:: Smiling to herself. ::

"I was interested in seeing how well my venom reacted in alcohol. It's good to know. You've been a wealth of knowledge tonight Archer. Thank you for that."

"Sorry for the cloak and dagger routine. But I had to be sure you would be generous with the names in your little black book. Lots of interesting little connections. Weapons, Intel, Bio Technology even...as if you could compete. But mostly, I wanted to see what the American branch was up against..."

:: She contracted her hips, locking Archer in one HELL of a vice grip, applying an intense amount of pressure to his body, squeezing his organs. ::

"I can confirm it's not much..and once The Black Court goes about stripping you of your contacts, well I don't think we'll have ANYTHING to worry about when it comes to our counterparts across the pond."

<< CONSTRICT >>

:: He was coming into his senses again. ::

Avalanche: "You...you BITCH! I was doing you a favor."

"And now I'm doing you one. Let this be a lesson to you and to those in London. We do not operate in the same way that you do, nor are we interested at this time in promoting gestures of good faith. You've been a pox on The Hellfire brand for quite some time and it's an embarrassment to be associated with you..."

<< CONSTRICT! >>

"AND... [gritting her teeth for a moment] should you attempt any form of retaliation or come into our house again and PEACOCK the way you have or attempt retaliation or any act of aggression against myself OR Fathom, we will destroy you. We will take down your little syndicate and claim it for ourselves before dismantling it and selling it for parts..."

:: She HOPPED off of him in an instant, constricting her muscles forward. She was standing over the bed again in a flash. ::

"But I'm not one to neg on a proper deal. My back was scratched...and soon yours will be too. If your lucky."

:: Archer screamed and yelled. ::

Avalanche: "What are you going to do?! LEAVE ME in your ROOM all night? You're CRAZY!"

:: Amanda laughed and began to make her way towards the doorway. She turned back before leaving. ::

"Who said this was my room, Archer? No..I'm not much of a fan of the color red. It's tacky. The woman this room belongs to however, just might be the only thing that could keep you afloat when you leave. Enjoy your night, and...should you survive? We should do this again sometime.."

:: Archer began to scream and cuss and fight against his restraints once again as Amanda left the room, slamming the door behind her. On the door, she left a note that read. ::

"To Helena. Happy Blackout Party. Warm Regards, Amanda Soto. Black Knight."

 

[Fathom]

The Hellfire Club -- Portrait Hall

On her way to meet the White Queen, Heidi was impeded by a young woman in a black dress, who clutched at Heidi's armored arm with fear in her eyes.

Frantic Guest: White Knight, WHITE KNIGHT!

"UNHAND ME, girl! What the bloody hell is your problem??"

Frantic Guest: Zombies! Zombies are loose!

Heidi's mouth set in a hard line, she raised her hand and beckoned silently for the nearest guard, as she frowned down at this frenzied young woman who was literally wringing her hands.

"WHERE are the zombies, little one?"

Frantic Guest: All around us! They're loose in the crowd! It's happened before! I was here, I saw it! They -- they EAT PEOPLE'S BRAINS!

"Yes indeed, and CLEARLY they've already gotten to YOU."

Frantic Guest: What? No! I escaped them last time, I know a secret passage! We've gotta get OUT of here RIGHT THIS SECOND!

Heidi slapped the girl full in the face as the guard arrived with a rapt expression. The girl, shocked by the sting on her cheek, focused on Heidi with an injured expression.

"Get a GRIP girl, you've lost touch with reality."

Frantic Guest: We're gonna die.... we're ALL gonna DIE!

Heidi shook her head, rolling her eyes for the benefit of the guard, who's expression was equal parts skepticism and curiosity. Heidi needed to get going, so she passed this problem off to the guardsman.

"Looks like she's gone off her rocker. Could be drugs, I suppose. Take her down to the infirmary. If she's just plain insane then she should be sedated, we can't have her running around like this, it's embarrassing."

She instructed, and then glided off down the hall. She arrived only seconds before Alice, and Diana didn't waste any time getting started.

Diana: Good. you're all here. I'll make this short and sweet. Alice, I sense your trepidation regarding Haleigh. Yours as well, Heidi.

"She's your daughter, that's dandy, but something about her puts me on edge."

Diana: Make no mistake...if she TRIES me or somehow IMPEDES the progress of the White Court, she will join her FATHER, and so many others like him...in the land of the DEAD. I let NO ONE stand in my way.

"Alright....."

Diana: I want you three to keep a CLOSE EYE on our newly crowned White Princess. The arrival of Ava Cassadine is amusing, and not all that unexpected. But we're not merely dealing with Stavros Cassadine's daughter. And if Haleigh thinks that we're playing dress up tonight...or ANY OTHER NIGHT...she's sadly mistaken.

"Very well then."

Diana: Heidi, if Archer Fairchild is not out of this mansion by 12:01 AM, I want you to put him out PERSONALLY. This is OUR time to play, not to have on-lookers and posers from across the pond here wishing they could BE one of us. If he resists...DISPOSE of him.

"Oh marvelous, it will be MY PLEASURE."

Diana: And SPEAKING of disposal...Giuletta Christina Nefaria. She was LATE, and not present with the rest of the White Court on the dais.

For a moment, Heidi looked perplexed. That little troll who'd sprung herself on Heidi and Amanda was actually a member of the inner circle, and the White Court itself? Then Heidi remembered something Maxine had told her about the White Bishop, a mob boss who'd crossed the wrong person and been railroaded by the justice department. And Archer had greeted Chrissy with esteem, as a mafia princess. All the pieces fell into place, as Heidi figured out just why that girl had the nerve not just to interrupt the Knights, but to mouth off to Heidi after being dismissed.

Well.... she really SHOULD have introduced herself better.... or just shown up ON TIME....

Diana: I will not tolerate this SLOPPY presentation. Heidi, Emiko, FIND her, and REMIND her of my expectations, as only YOU TWO can, and then send her to ME. I will be in my boudoir soon. I expect you two to visit her BEFORE then.

"As you wish. Emiko, I saw the girl run off with Amanda and Archer, on a 'tour' in the wing of the Black Court. Why don't you take point on this one? I'd LOVE to see you in action, I've heard SO much...."

She said, as the two left the Portrait Hall in search of their intended victim.

 

[Persephone]

Lost in the trance movement of the crowd below, she could hear the base of the music, but the glass kept the majority of the sound to the Lunar Ballroom. This club--the environment--reminded her so much of the Masters of Evil....except far less cool. It was nostalgic almost being there, seeing the people, being surrounded by the darkness. Ava was enjoying the moment until she heard Sharon loosing her shit. Rolling her eyes shut, she began to scream at Haleigh that she would beat her to a pulp if she tested her or went after anyone.

"You can try."

Ava stated evenly while still peering out at the crowd. She respected Sharon, even considered her a friend. But it would be a cold day in hell that Sharon would lay a finger on Haleigh without Ava intervening.

Haleigh: "It just got a little REAL, huh? We'll be in for a lot more of THAT. You can still change your mind..... tell everyone you came here for recon, like Sharon. I'll see you out safely."

[scoffing] "And miss all this fun? Never."

Soon the room filled with the familiar sound of electricity.

Jessica: "OH NO! DON'T RUN!"

"Oh you GOT to be kidding me!"

Ava groaned out, turning to see none other than Jessica Marcus and all over her obnoxious glory. To say the woman was annoying was an understatement, and to see her ALIVE? That was just down right WRONG.

"Can't you people STAY DEAD?"

Jessica snapped her little whip separating Haleigh from Lord Ravena before leaping and knocking Haleigh across the room and crashing into Ava. Slamming up against the glass overlook, it splintered in the shape of her body, but did not break. Viper wrapped her whip around Ava's neck, choking her.

Jessica: "I can have fun TORTURING Haleigh...for HOURS... with my power. I don't even have to TOUCH her. I can DECONSTRUCT HER and remove the very thing that makes her feel like she's SPECIAL like me! I'll turn her BACK into what she REALLY is! But YOU? You're not worth the time or artistic glee. I'll just MURDER YOU and DISSECT YOU! You BARELY survived the last time we faught, PERFUMA, Sharon hates you BOTH now, she won't help you. And by the time Auntie Diana comes back...you'll be DEAD!"

[through gritted teeth] "DO....TRY..."

Jessica continued to tighten the whip around Ava's neck, but like Jessica, Ava was extremely durable. It was the reason they were able to fight so brutally against each other before. Gritting her teeth, now AVA'S electricity began to fill the room with a crackle, flowing around her fingertips as she grabbed Jessica's face and sending enough volts into her head to power the city of New York. It was enough for Jessica to falter and loosen the grip on her whip. Pushing forward, Ava spun and ducked at the same time, weaving out of the constraints of the whip before spinning Jessica around so her back was facing Ava.

The diamond cuffed bracelet around Ava's wrist wasn't just any piece of jewelry, it was none other than her transfiguring whip. In seconds the cuff morphed effortlessly into Ava's hand, wrapping around Jessica's neck and face and transfiguring into a metal mask, muzzling the bitch. The electricity intensified even more as it met with the metal--Ava slamming her knee against Jessica's spine and bowing her back as she pulled with her superstrength, tightening the mask against her face AND putting enough pressure on her spine to SNAP it.

"I'LL BREAK HER IN HALF, DIANA!"

She threatened, yelling over the surging lightening that coursed throughout the room.

"NEED I REMIND YOU I'M NOT JUST A CASSADINE. I'M THE ORIGINAL QUEEN OF HELL."

Diana thought little of Ava Cassadine aside from the fact that she was Stavros' daughter. But PERSEPHONE was an entirely different story. One she was MORE than willing to remind her about.

"TELL HER TO STAND DOWN!"

 

[Enchantrah]

Mission completed....Calpernia De Versailles' new arm candy husband was so enthralled with Helena he had been ignoring his newly wed wife the entire time they were conversing. It was sad really...and way too easy. So easy it was boring. BUT, it needed to be done. By the evenings end, Mr. Versailles would be questioning his new marriage, and by next week all of the assets his wife signed over to him would be property of the Red Court.

"It's been such a pleasure welcoming you into our club, Emilio. Don't be a stranger, now."

Helena purred as she extended her hand out to him to bid him farewell. He quickly took it and kissed the top of it.

"Calpernia, darling....we must meet for dinner soon!"

The two women kissed cheek to cheek, Calpernia stupid enough to not realize what was happening right in front of her as she smiled happily at Helena, accepting the invitation to dinner.

"Ciao!"

Walking away, Helena's warm smile immediately faded into that of a victorious smirk. Ahh, it was like taking candy from a baby. Peering around the dance floor, she saw a couple members of her court socializing....well, moreso spying or gathering intel as she instructed them to do. Being the eyes and ears of the Hellfire Club was a never ending job, but it was the reason they were at the level they were at now.

Exiting the ballroom, Helena decided to freshen up before continuing with her work. A few more matters needed to be handled before she could finally enjoy herself. Walking down the dark corridors of the club that lead to her suite, she noticed the Amanda Soto approaching from the opposite direction. She gave Helena a sly smile and nodded respectfully. It was quite odd to see a member of the Black Court in the Red Court's chamber wing....but it was the Blackout Party, shit happened.

Approaching the door to her room, there was a piece of paper hanging from the door. Pulling it off, Helena read it.

"To Helena. Happy Blackout Party. Warm Regards, Amanda Soto. Black Knight."

How intriguing. Opening the door, Helena laughed despite herself as she saw Archer Fairchild, Black King of Hellfire Club Europe, tied naked to her bed.

"Well, well, well....what do we have here."

Helena leaned against the frame of her door, fanning herself with Amanda's note.

"Archer Fairchild....I knew the European branch would be sending us a visitor as a gesture of good faith....but I wasn't quite expecting THIS gesture."

Helena grinned, stepping into her room finally and closing the door behind her.

"Things are starting to look UP tonight."

Looking directly at his arousal that no doubt Amanda induced. Slowly moving around the bed, Helena peered down at him with hooded eyes, running her manicured red nail up his bare thigh, hip, abdominal, and chest.

"I've forgotten how good you look under that drab black suite of yours."

Leaning down, Helena was mere inches from his ear. Her breath hot on his neck.

"Ahh, memories."

Helena slipped off the ties that bound his one wrist. Moving across to the other, her face was now directly above his; their lips barely touching. Slipping the remaining tie off his other wrist, Helena smirked.

"There. Free to enjoy the rest of your evening. Whatever that may be."

 

[Domino]

Blackout Party - A Scuffle Ensues

:: Maxine was in the middle of charming a leggy blonde with a high pitched giggle. She was leaning against the wall, her arm stretched up, leaning on it, incredibly close to the woman who was more than accepting of Domino's advances. All women were like spaghetti - straight until they got a little wet. She was just about to go in for the kill when she heard commotion upstairs and the sounds of one hell of a scrap preparing to take place. Domino left the woman standing there blinking, wondering how she could have left so quickly and in short time, she was up the stairs baring witness to the altercation ensuing between Ava, Haleigh and Jessica. Maxine gritted her teeth. ::

"Damnation, Alice! You had ONE job to do!"

:: Where the hell was Alice and why in god's name did she think it was a good idea for her to be left alone like this! She would make sure to chastise Alice for her incredible failure later, but for now she needed to run damage control as Viper firmly placed her vine whip around Ava's neck choking her. ::

Viper: "I can have fun TORTURING Haleigh...for HOURS...with my power. I don't even have to TOUCH her. I can DECONSTRUCT HER and remove the very thing that makes her feel like she's SPECIAL like me! I'll turn her BACK into what she REALLY is! But YOU? You're not worth the time or artistic glee. I'll just MURDER YOU and DISSECT YOU! You BARELY survived the last time we fought, PERFUMA, Sharon hates you BOTH now, she won't help you. And by the time Auntie Diana comes back..you'll be DEAD!"

:: For a moment she smirked. She enjoyed Jessica's sadistic and insane monologues and the artistic way she did her "work". It was something that had bonded them in the months since they arrived at the mansion. Jessica was right. She was more than capable of killing Ava and Haleigh and perhaps Maxine would let her. What would be a bigger blow to The Six than Haleigh betraying them? Her dying a traitor and taking her sister along with her. But she didn't have time to entertain those thoughts as Ava fought back with one hell of a comeback. From the corner of her eye she noticed Malice engaged in silent conversation with Haleigh and she began to put the dots together. She had used Jessica to prove a point to Haleigh that she could and WOULD be dominated her and that didn't sit right with Maxine. Jessica wasn't a TOOL to be used and it was part of the agreement that she made with Diana that Jessica remain safe and get the chance to have a life of her own. It appeared that old habits died hard for The White Queen. She was walking a dangerous line, because like Ava..MALICE had barely survived her last encounter with Jessica Marcus and it had come at great personal cost to her. She shook her head and sprung into action. ::

Ava: "I'LL BREAK HER IN HALF, DIANA!"

:: Lightning began to course throughout the room as Maxine lept forward, dodging each bolt with incredible accuracy and speed. ::

Ava: "NEED I REMIND YOU I'M NOT JUST A CASSADINE. I'M THE ORIGINAL QUEEN OF HELL. TELL HER TO STAND DOWN."

:: Leaping high in the air, her left arm shifted into it's techno organic form in the shape of a mallet as she BASHED Ava over the head with it. Ava may have been a durable woman but Maxine was STRONG. The only person she had encountered thus far in her life that she couldn't mash into a pulp had been Sharon Kelly, so a hit from Domino was not easy to take. But Maxine wasn't going for the kill. If everybody wanted to send MESSAGES to each other, she was about to send one herself. Her hit caused Persephone to LOSE her grip on Jessica as she stumbled to the ground. In an instant, Maxine was on Jessica, PRYING the electrified mask as the electricity JOLTED through her body. She winced from the pain but eventually got the mask off, freeing Jessica from the grasp of Persephone. ::

"RELAX, Jessica. RELAX."

:: Maxine held Jessica in a bare hug using her strength to restrain the woman, which was no easy task. Lifting her from the ground, she carefully pulled out a phone and entered a sequence of commands into an ominous software application. It was a fail safe developed by Alice, and as she entered the command, a series of medications and stabilizers coursed through Jessica's body through a chip implanted in her central nervous system. This was only used in situations where Jessica might become a danger to herself and others, and though Maxine didn't want to admit, was rather frequent. As Jessica's muscles relaxed and her breathing became steady, she looked at the woman in her bright green haunting eyes. She spoke quietly and only to Jessica. ::

"Do not let them get you like this Jessica. They WANT you to react like this. They want to try and say that you can't handle things. And we both know that's not true. You're stronger than ALL of them. Stronger than me! If you want to show them how strong you are, you fix that beautiful hair of yours and you get on with your night like they are NOTHING...because that's what they are NOTHING...compared to you."

:: Jessica required a high level of coddling in order to control. Driven mad by what had happened to her, she represented a different side to a coin that Maxine was on. She could have been broken like this, could have remained some hyper active and sadistic drone, programmed to kill, driven mad by her own power. But she had found her own strength, her own path..and she truly wanted Jessica to find hers. Once she knew that Jessica was okay, she turned to the others. ::

"Has everybody made their POINT now? Or do I need to get her revved up for Round Two?"

[looking at Ava]

"Sorry about the smack..kind of."

:: She looked at Diana and Haleigh with a dissapproving glance, though she didn't say anything. That wasn't worth it. ::

"Will somebody please find Alice and tell her that her presence is required downstairs? And also that I have half a mind to beat her pretty little ass?"

:: Maxine grabbed Jessica by the hand and began to walk the down the stairs. She was heated, as indicated by the number of people she hurled off the staircase as she went down with great speed. ::

"OUT OF MY WAY!"

 

[Persephone]

The androgynous woman leapt into the air, dodging all of the electrical bolts that were charging throughout the room. So she was fast. Noted. As Domino weaved in the air, her arm transformed into a mallet and slammed into Ava's head with a quick motion. It was enough to cause Ava to release Jessica and fall back against the glass again. She was strong too. Noted. Grabbing the back of her head, she winced as droplets of acidic blood fell to the floor, burning the carpet with a sizzle.

Maxine: "RELAX, Jessica. RELAX."

Looking over at Maxine bear hugging Jessica into submission, Ava's eyes were narrowed and filled with rage. She watched as Maxine took out a phone and began to punch in something that immediately began to make Jessica relax. Ava could see the bitches muscles easing and her flushed face return to normal.

"So the rabid dog does have a handler? How does it feel to have people pump you full of drugs to calm you down you crazy bitch?"

Ava snapped, finally standing upright and flicking the rest of the acidic blood from her hand. Maxine began to give Jessica a pep talk about being stronger and more powerful than everyone. Trying to ease her and keep her at bay. It was like watching a mother console a toddler after a tantrum. Rolling her eyes, Ava scoffed out in disbelief.

Maxine: "Has everybody made their POINT now? Or do I need to get her revved up for Round Two?"

Not bothering to respond, she picked up a cloth napkin and began to clean her hands.

Maxine: "Sorry about the smack...kind of."

[evenly] "I'm sure."

Finally Maxine escorted looney tunes out of the sidebar. Tossing the napkin to the ground, her eyes now went to Haleigh and Diana who had both been staring at each other quietly since the beginning of Jessica's attack. No doubt communicating telepathically. It was too weird, and definitely further proof that they were in fact mother and daughter. Deciding she needed a much stronger drink after all this bullshit, Ava walked over to the bar and grabbed the $2,000 bottle of Louis XIII cognac, and poured herself a glass. For all she knew, Diana had more surprises up her sleeve that Ava needed to get far more buzzed for to deal with.

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Inner Circle Salon: Sidebar

Ava: I'LL BREAK HER IN HALF, DIANA! NEED I REMIND YOU I'M NOT JUST A CASSADINE. I'M THE ORIGINAL QUEEN OF HELL. TELL HER TO STAND DOWN!

The lightning crackling through the atmosphere made Haleigh's skin crawl, but she kept her focus on Diana as she raised her right eyebrow and the left corner of her mouth began to creep up into a smile.

I guess you won't need to issue that 'release' command after all. You have to admit, Persephone would be a very good addition here at Hellfire.

Out of the corner of her peripheral vision, Haleigh caught the glint of Maxine's attack on her sister. THAT was an interference FOUL, and instinctively, Haleigh's hand went up to defend Ava. Then slowly, she brought it back down, balled into a fist, and Maxine was allowed to bring the hammer down as intended. Diana had FORBID Haleigh helping Ava in this tussle.... and Haleigh made herself comply. Diana would know how difficult that act of obedience was for Haleigh.

This is MADNESS..... we should be celebrating our reunion. Infighting and power struggles will prevent us from succeeding.

After getting bashed in the head, Ava snapped out of her homicidal mania, and the electricity in the air dissipated. Maxine could be heard coddling Jessica, and then she did something very interesting. Out came a phone, and after meeting the requirements of some programming, a chip within Jessica was activated, which released medication and calmed her down, making her docile and allowing Maxine to coax her into compliance. A techno-organic sedation device buried in the sinew of the ONE being known to be able to control the virus that ran through Scion's veins?That was very interesting indeed. Haleigh began to give Diana a devilish smile as Domino quietly placated Jessica. Her enhanced hearing allowed every word to be heard clearly.

So, the brat has a baby-sitter? I hope you haven't forgotten-- Miss Marcus and I have UNFINISHED BUSINESS. If you say she's off limits TONIGHT? Fine. But some day soon I'll get my REVENGE for what she did to me on Sheena Island. I can't believe you even let that infantile hellion LIVE....

"Jessica..... This one was a freebie, because Mommy said so. But the NEXT time you act up and try to assault me -- physical or otherwise-- I'll spank that ass. And don't bother threatening to return me to zombie status. I've learned a thing or two since last we met."

Scion called after Viper as Maxine led her away. Haleigh's eyes never once left Diana's. She waited for her mother to decide to kill her, or let her go back to proving herself to the REST of Hellfire.

Please don't make me kneel. It'll lower us BOTH. I know you're not USED to being challenged.... but if you ALLOW me to TRULY stand -- not in front of or behind you -- but BESIDE you.... We will BOTH.... RISE.... above any known limits in this world. SEARCH MY SOUL. You KNOW I'm being HONEST.

 

[Nogitsune]

And SPEAKING of disposal...Giuletta Christina Nefaria. She was LATE, and not present with the rest of the White Court on the dais. I will not tolerate this SLOPPY presentation.

Emiko had been examining her hand, holding it at different distances from her face, up until this point in the conversation. She looked up at Malice.

She POPPED out, returning a second later holding up a large knife from her collection. She raised her eyebrows questioningly, making quick slashing motions with the knife.

Heidi, Emiko, FIND her, and REMIND her of my expectations, as only YOU TWO can, and then send her to ME.

I will be in my boudoir soon. I expect you two to visit her BEFORE then.

Emi looked downtrodden, tossing the knife sadly down on the bench beside her.

"As you wish. Emiko, I saw the girl run off with Amanda and Archer, on a 'tour' in the wing of the Black Court. Why don't you take point on this one? I'd LOVE to see you in action, I've heard SO much...."

She nodded. That the fish girl was mocking her barely registered.

"When can a net hold water?"

She spoke absentmindedly.

Emiko's attention was momentarily piqued as they passed by the ballroom, which now looked like they had all been sent to Yomi. Emiko picked up her pace to get away from the horrible sight. Coming into the Black court's quarters, they saw "Chrissy" up ahead. She popped out and back in, now carrying a body. It was an odd picture, Emi's tiny figure carrying a large man. She strode up to Masque, and threw the body at her feet.

"Greetings from the White Queen."

Emiko sneered at the girl, the body of her father now at her feet, his chest riddled with bullet wounds seeping blood and ichor.

"What has hands but no arms and a face but no eyes?"

 

[Masque]

Hellfire Mansion




Gia was having a WONDERFUL time. NOT. She could tell that she was the third wheel, and who the hell likes being the third wheel?! But she smiled and nodded and chuckled at all the right things in all the right places. Yet she felt out of place, and she didn’t like that feeling. AT ALL. So, when Cobra noticed that they were about to have company and pointedly told her about it, she first felt relief.

Thank GOD.

As she went to meet up with Heidi as well as her companion, her expression changed from that of relief to horror for the man that Heidi’s companion was carrying? He was the same height and had the exact same build as her FATHER. That had to be incorrect, though, because her father was currently inside a FEDERAL PRISON.

What the--?

The geisha-type girl strode up to her and slammed down the body…which was, indeed, her father. His body was riddled with bullet holes and she could see blood seeping from them. Gia was horrified – and shocked.

Emiko: *sneering*: “Greetings from the White Queen.”

In that moment, a few things were made clear to Gia: 1) she actually WAS the White Bishop and somehow missed the memo, 2) Diana found out that she was late, and 3) she was going to have fun devising ways on how she could torture federal agents Briggs and Henderson for making her late. She looked up at Emiko from where she had crouched down to inspect the body and then stood up. She shook her head.

Emiko: “What has hands but no arms and a face but no eyes?”

“This can’t be real. It can’t be real. No. I refuse to accept this. Because there is no way Diana would be STUPID enough to send one of her lackeys into a FEDERAL PRISON to kill my father and bring the body back here!!!”

Gia shook her head and gave a short bark of a laugh.

“Unbelievable.”

She looked at Emiko again.

“To answer your damn riddle, it’s a clock.”

 

[Malice]

Hellfire Mansion- Upper Salon

Haleigh stood up, straightening her dress and lifting her chin to look her mother in the eyes. Their expressions seemed to mirror each other.

With a single thought, consisting of a single word, I put YOU down? You must be kidding. You couldn't possibly be threatened by such a mild retort. You call it getting cocky, I call it being MYSELF.

Telepathically to Scion: You're right, I'm NOT threatened by a mild retort, but YOU are the one with the BURDEN, my dear. The burden of PROOF to ME AND the rest of the Inner Circle, and you said it yourself, I won't hesitate to DISPATCH you if you DARE to defy me, and that INCLUDES relying...in the SLIGHTEST WAY...on "family ties" OUTSIDE of the Inner Circle. I'll know your thoughts BEFORE they're even completely formed, and I'll deal with you accordingly. VIPER is simply a reminder of the painful, chaotic END that you could have....DID have...one that I brought you back from.

My thoughts will never be hidden from you, mother. You may as well get used to getting a little sass. Now it's time for YOU to LISTEN.

There was the slightest hint of surprise...or amusement...in Diana's glare, but Haleigh pushed on with the force of will she must have gotten from Diana herself.

Our JOINT success is dependent on our JOINT strength. It may please you now to prove to your subordinates that you control me, but IF you continue on with these public 'lessons', you'll damage the appearance of our alliance, and the very fabric of it as well. Would you REALLY respect me if I became a spineless lackey? If THAT is what you want, then I find myself quite disappointed in you. I truly thought you'd offered me this position because you valued me AS I AM, strong and independent. I'll do you NO GOOD as a stooge, and all your efforts will have been a waste. I UNDERSTAND that you require my unwavering loyalty, and that any perceived dissent will sow the seeds of defiance amongst your court. If they see ME getting away with it, they'll think THEY can too. So I WON'T defy you publicly. But I also WON'T be afraid to object to you MENTALLY. You've never SCARED me before, and you don't NOW. You want to KILL me? DO IT. Hell would be a vacation right now. But if you want to WORK WITH ME? You'll have to accept the fact that we are GOING to have differences of opinion. If we can't be upfront with each other, we've no business continuing this little game. Tell your rabid 'niece' to release Persephone. I'll make SURE she doesn't entertain anymore homicidal ideas about my mother.

She could have said it ALL out loud, but she didn't. This was just between them, and that was the way it should stay.

::Haleigh was right. She WOULD lose her appeal to Diana if she just ROLLED over and became a spineless lackey. Diana would no longer find her interesting, worthy of respect OR of strategic value. ::

:iana had broken Haleigh on Sheena Island, but this was after carefully laid plans, and YEARS of carefully applied orchestration, much of which had been carried out by Alice at Diana's behest. Having broken the girl, and forced her hand to do her bidding, it would be rather UNIMAGINATIVE to simply require her spineless servitude. She could get THAT from Kristen Pratt. And if she wanted to derive pleasure from punishing or humiliating someone, there was always Kelly Shaw! ::

:: KILLING Haleigh was always an option, and there were many ways to make it happen, WITHOUT Diana herself having to lift a finger. On the OTHER hand, Diana knew the value of having the right people in the right place. Haleigh and Diana would always have these...."mother/daughter" moments. But if there was one thing that remained consistent about the White Queen, it was her focus on the long range vision, the ultimate game. She would not let anything or anyONE distract or sidetrack her from what was her's for the taking.::

:: One example: DOMINO. There was no denying the tremendous BENEFIT of having her as an associate to the American Hellfire's Inner Circle, but there was still a quality about her that Diana didn't care for. She reveled...a little TOO MUCH in her "outsider" status, and she seemed to think that her MERIT for the favor she was being shown would allow her to escape to Diana's wrath if she crossed the line.::

:: If Domino tried Malice, or DARED to think she could recreate her little tour de force at the Hellfire Club's London Branch, Malice would SMASH HER to dust, and who better to bring the hammer down on that upstart than Scion and Fathom! At this point, even Lord Ravena was "crossing over." KNOWING his ultimate secret, who HE was related to, had given Malice a strong amount of leverage, but OFFERING to help him GET to his quarry was what changed his view of the White Queen. Their chemistry was undeniable, and his stated reasons for joining her on the White Court as her White King (a position that had NEVER been filled since Diana rose to power as the White Queen) was proof that he was now firmly in HER arena. Even HE would not stand for Domino attempting to recreate the havoc she caused at the London Branch, not when he was gaining the tools and the ALLIES he would need in order to finally TAKE his quarry!::

::SO, Haleigh had gotten the message, AND delivered one of her own to her mother, and it was...."fair enough." The fact that Haleigh KNEW that Diana might force her to kill Ava with her own two hands, and her willingness to do almost anything to AVOID that was enough satisfaction for Malice at the momenet to relent.::

:: Speaking of Ava and Jessica just now, the goddess managed to turn the tables on the T-Veronica Virus carrying maniac, forcibly free herself and have Viper at a temporay but HARSH disadvantage. ::

The diamond cuffed bracelet around Ava's wrist wasn't just any piece of jewelry, it was none other than her transfiguring whip. In seconds the cuff morphed effortlessly into Ava's hand, wrapping around Jessica's neck and face and transfiguring into a metal mask, muzzling the bitch. The electricity intensified even more as it met with the metal--Ava slamming her knee against Jessica's spine and bowing her back as she pulled with her superstrength, tightening the mask against her face AND putting enough pressure on her spine to SNAP it.

"I'LL BREAK HER IN HALF, DIANA!"

She threatened, yelling over the surging lightening that coursed throughout the room.

:: Diana's hair flowed a bit in the unexpected winds, and she nodded her head slightly as her eyebrows lifted upon witnessing the powerful bolts of lightning, as if she was astonished by the OPERATIC display of power AND the fluent physicality from Persephone just now. Truth be told, Diana found it rather...ARTFUL! She'd never really FOCUSED on Persephone before as a target, until recently when she sent that special delivery to Cameron's office, KNOWING who would be on hand to receive it. But NOW, she was beginning to wonder how DELICIOUS it would taste to watch the mind of a centuries old woman UNRAVEL, and to to BATHE in the mental and emotional destruction of Ava Cassadine!::

"NEED I REMIND YOU I'M NOT JUST A CASSADINE. I'M THE ORIGINAL QUEEN OF HELL."

Diana thought little of Ava Cassadine aside from the fact that she was Stavros' daughter. But PERSEPHONE was an entirely different story. One she was MORE than willing to remind her about.

:: Diana tilted her head, and offered this look to Persephone::

Are you indeed, your majesty?

:: Haleigh can't help but tighten up a bit, as Malice "salutes", touching two of her fingers to her forehead...a gesture most often assosciated with Malice summoning a PSI JAVELINE. But this time, she merely does it to MOCK Persephone.::

A queen without a crown...and...as far as the world is concerned, A queen presiding over a realm that only exists in dusty books in remote corners of the library.

A queen with NO subjects, no respect, and BARELY any relevance in a world where Spellbinder and Harbinger would sooner send you to the center of the earth if they had ANY idea just how treacherous your heart really is. You're willing to abandon the ONLY people who would stand by you to follow after Scion?

You've been displaced HOW many times? You've lost your way HOW many times? Even NOW, with the mind of Ava Cassadine housed in that twisted, addled mind of yours, you're ALWAYS able to associate yourself with greatness, but you forever remain a fugitive, a FAILURE.

You can do whatever you WANT, PERFUMA, but Scion is MINE now and NOTHING you do tonight will change that. You've LOST to me yet AGAIN, and I won't be long before I CRUSH the heads and the SOULS of the people you've ABANDONNED in this foolish mission you're on NOW.

:: Domino would be moving in a mere seconds::

Go home to Shadow Weaver. Have her build you up again, maybe this time you'll be smart and stick with that instead of coming here thinking you can bait the lioness in her den.

:: Domino moves in FAST and swift, knocking Persephone in her head, and containing Viper, activating the safe measures Alice had craft and put into place.::

:: Diana smirked, casually taking a flute of champagne and enjoying a long, SATISFYING drink.::

:: Domino handled Jessica very well, MUCH better than DIANA herself would have. If DIANA had had HER way, Jessica would have DIED right along side her brother all those years ago in the original Arklay mansion.::

"So the rabid dog does have a handler? How does it feel to have people pump you full of drugs to calm you down you crazy bitch?"

Oh, I'm sure it's not unlike the feeling that comes from relying on a witch to charm a ring for you to wear because you're too weak and feeble to handle YOUR emotions?

:: Diana offered that, an indication that she'd probed Ava's mind.::

:: She looked at Diana and Haleigh with a dissapproving glance, though she didn't say anything. That wasn't worth it. ::

"Will somebody please find Alice and tell her that her presence is required downstairs? And also that I have half a mind to beat her pretty little ass?"

Don't you worry about ALICE, my dear. She is busy carrying out a directive I provided her, which is why she was...UNAVAILABLE to tend to your precious Viper. She'll be along to assist you shortly.

:: And with that, Domino leads a suitably restrained Viper away. Domino was indeed excellent in damage control, but she wasn't going to get very far with Alice with THAT kind of attitude. As she soon disappeared from view, Diana lets her blue eyes slide back over to Scion::

I guess you won't need to issue that 'release' command after all. You have to admit, Persephone would be a very good addition here at Hellfire.

Telepathically to Haleigh: I prefer individuals WITHOUT centuries old cases of dementia....

This is MADNESS..... we should be celebrating our reunion. Infighting and power struggles will prevent us from succeeding.

YOU'RE the one who dared to invited this lurker up here. Your family is HERE now in the Inner Circle. You swore allegiance to ME. Bringing HER up here in front of me tonight was BAD FORM. THIS was not the way to prove it.

So, the brat has a baby-sitter? I hope you haven't forgotten-- Miss Marcus and I have UNFINISHED BUSINESS. If you say she's off limits TONIGHT? Fine. But some day soon I'll get my REVENGE for what she did to me on Sheena Island. I can't believe you even let that infantile hellion LIVE....

She has TWO, actually. One of them was YOURS for many years. I don't forget ANYTHING. You should know that by now. Your UNFINISHED BUSINESS is ON HOLD for the time being. LEARN something from your mother. Revenge is indeed a dish best served COLD and CALCULATED. And don't misunderstand me, I didn't LET her live. She DIED. You saw it just as I did. But JUST LIKE YOU, she has been granted a new lease on life, and it comes at a PRICE. If I were you, I'd worry less about HER'S and focus on YOURS.

"Jessica..... This one was a freebie, because Mommy said so. But the NEXT time you act up and try to assault me -- physical or otherwise-- I'll spank that ass. And don't bother threatening to return me to zombie status. I've learned a thing or two since last we met."

Scion called after Viper as Maxine led her away. Haleigh's eyes never once left Diana's. She waited for her mother to decide to kill her, or let her go back to proving herself to the REST of Hellfire.

:: Diana couldn't help but laugh softly. Maybe Jessica would provide just the right amount of "SPICE" for this new mix of the Inner Circle after all! She was one OTHER person who COULD unsettle Haleigh on a very visceral level, and she would KEEP Domino busy, while allowing ALICE more than one opportunity to display the contempt she felt toward Domino but ULTIMATELY make progress in her efforts to REHABILITATE Viper. The woman HAD a unique power set, one that SHOULD be used.

Please don't make me kneel. It'll lower us BOTH. I know you're not USED to being challenged.... but if you ALLOW me to TRULY stand -- not in front of or behind you -- but BESIDE you.... We will BOTH.... RISE.... above any known limits in this world. SEARCH MY SOUL. You KNOW I'm being HONEST.

As long as you do as you promised, and TEACH that runaway storm cloud (Persephone) the ERROR of her ways, thinking she could come in MY domain and try me, then I will NOT force you to your knees in front of her, OR force you to wrap your hands around her neck and finish what Jessica started.

:: Diana steps forward, looking down at her daughter, and suddenly grabbing her by the shoulders and turning her around to face Ava.::

Welcome to your NEW life, Scion. Say GOODBYE to the old, and only THEN will you be able to step forward, and take your place BESIDE me. ::

:: And with that, Diana ushers Haleigh forward, as Lord Ravena joins Malice and the BOTH watch Haleigh.::

:: Haleigh was right, it WAS a night to celebrate and to play HARD. Kelly Shaw was summoning both her AND Helena Quartermane to the Lunar Ballroom.::

:: It had better be a much needed distraction.::

:: Diana leans over and whispers in Ravena's ear, as she gently brushes his chin with her finely manicured fingernails.::

Lord Ravena, this is your night. Get to know all that you survey, have your way, as only the White King could. You know the time and the place that WE will meet as the darkness surrounds us all this night.

:: After Haleigh put Ava in her place, Diana was satisfied for the time being. Ava was free to remain, after all, she WAS a Cassadine, and just like Sharon, her VIP membership status was lifetime. But just as Diana had served her a special deliver of PAIN hours ago, she REMINDED her NOW that whatever grand existence she may have had in her previous lives, HERE AND NOW, MALICE was the queen! ::

::FLASH!::

< The music in the DJ booth begins to change suddenly, as a new song begans to permeate through the ballroom. It was a song she knew well, and it was one that began to call to both Diana and Helena at the same time, both of them able to hear it in their minds from wherever they were. The spell began to wash over them as they had a sudden awareness that the song reminded them of each other, in easier times, in their younger days, and they felt the need to go to the source. >

< As The Queens made their way to the Lunar Ballroom, they would find it looking very differently, but familiar...because they were about to enter the exclusive front doors of Studio 54! >

[mentally to Helena and Diana as they arrive via the spell]

"I think it's time for a throwback, don't you ladies? Come dance."

Well...after all this messing about, I SHOULD have MY time. Come long, Helena. just SEDATE your little boy toy. He'll keep for a while. This should be FUN

:: Diana departs the Upper Salon, making her way to the Lunar Ballroom, and when she arrives, passing through the enchantment that Talisman has cast, her body is surrounded by glowing orbs::

:: Her hairstyle changes to one she wore in the past, specific time and era.::

:: And her outfit and accessories changes as well, showcasing her body in a way that suited the era- bold, daring, execess, hedonistic! ALL things associated with the glamorous era of Studio 54.::

:: She enters through the famous double doors of Studio 54, and stands with her hands on her hips::

:: Taking another flute of champange::

Well....WELL.

:: Malice couldn't help but smirk at how THOROUGH Kelly's spell was. Clearly there was some nostalgia powering it. Diana remembered this time well, but for Kelly, it was significantly more important in HER timeline.::

:: After another flute of champagne, Diana makes her way through the crowd, and finds Kelly under the giant disco ball.::

I hope your rhythm matches your posturing, Shaw.

:: Diana says as she eyes Kelly with a bit of intrigue, and allows herself to feel the music, and even enjoy the lustful looks of the scantily clad male AND female dancers around them.::

 

[Fathom]

The Hellfire Club -- Black Court Wing

Emiko: When can a net hold water?

"Why, when the water is frozen, of course!"

Heidi replied with an amused chuckle. She began to think of a riddle for Emiko to solve as they moved past the main ballroom.

"You are transporting a tiger, a macaque, and a banana tree, when you come upon a river. There is a canoe for you to use to cross the river, but it is only big enough for you and one other item. How will you get all three things across the river, without the tiger eating the monkey, nor the monkey eating the bananas?"

They found the White Bishop, and much to Heidi's satisfaction, the little trollop looked quite miserable. Time spent with Archer often had that effect on people. Emiko popped away and then came back, burdened by a dead body that she dumped at Masque's feet.

Emiko: Greetings from the White Queen.

Chrissy looked horrified and knelt to look at the body. Emiko offered another riddle, as Heidi smiled wickedly at Chrissy's distress. Then the girl snapped back at them with her bad attitude. She even called Emiko a lackey. Unacceptable. She obviously didn't know her PLACE yet, and wasn't sufficiently cowed by their message. Chrissy may be a mafia princess, but here on the White Court, a princess had ALREADY been named, and if this girl was going assume her Father's position on the court, and take the mantle of the White Bishop, she'd better fall in line. There was still too much insolence in Chrissy's expression, as she spat back the answer to Emiko's riddle.

The clang of her trident's appearance sounded, as Heidi quickly swept her right hand in an arc, knocking Masque's legs out from under her as she fluidly brought her right knee up stomp-kicked Chrissy right in the center of the chest, driving her hard onto her back. She drew the trident up and then jammed it down, a tine on either side of Chrissy's neck. The ends of the trident buried in the floor, Chrissy was pinned to the ground by the throat. She could still breathe freely, but couldn't get up. Heidi's right leg, bared all the way to her hip through the opening in her 'toga', stayed on top of Masque, and she dug her right heel deep into Chrissy's sternum, pressing down HARD and leaning over, her bosom swelling over the top of her bodice.

"That's RIGHT Chrissy, a CLOCK. You might want to consult one in the future, so you can be on TIME. The White Queen is very displeased with your tardiness. She's asked us to remind you of your DUTIES to the White Court, Bishop."

Heidi pointed at Chrissy with her left hand, and a jet of salt water shot from her index finger, forcing its way down Chrissy's nose and throat. The girl choked, and Heidi smirked with glee, then stopped the flow of water and let Chrissy coughed the water up and try to regain her breath.

"THAT was for disrespecting me earlier, when we met."

She blasted Chrissy again, with MORE water this time, and for a longer period. Then she stopped, and talked loudly over the sound of Chrissy hacking some more.

"THAT was for disrespecting Emiko. The White Rook is no mere lackey."

Once more, Heidi forced cold water into Chrissy's lungs, this time harder and longer, until Chrissy's body convulsed with the effort of resisting. JUST when the girl was about to drown, Heidi let up.

"THAT was for disrespecting the White Queen with your unpunctuality."

Heidi stood and lifted her heel from Chrissy's chest, then grasped her trident. It disappeared, releasing Masque, who was violently trying to expel all the salt water from her lungs.

"Now I know you must wish to kill me by now, but don't try anything stupid. You have two choices, darling. You can join US.... or you can join your father."

She cast a glance at the body that laid right next to Chrissy, then looked back at the new would-be Bishop.

"Unless you're a moron with a death wish, you'll report to the White Wing, and await your Queen. I recommend making HASTE.... if you want to live."

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Inner Circle Salon: Sidebar

Malice: YOU'RE the one who dared to invited this lurker up here. Your family is HERE now in the Inner Circle. You swore allegiance to ME. Bringing HER up here in front of me tonight was BAD FORM. THIS was not the way to prove it.

Haleigh's looked a bit puzzled at her mother's displeasure.

Well what was I supposed to do? Try to hide her and sneak off to meet her, DESPITE the fact that you'd know it the second I planned it? That would have been STUUUUPIIIIIDDDD. Something my father would be arrogant enough to try. Luckily I got my intelligence from my mother. You say it's bad form, I find it to be good tactics.

Malice: As long as you do as you promised, and TEACH that runaway storm cloud (Persephone) the ERROR of her ways, thinking she could come in MY domain and try me, then I will NOT force you to your knees in front of her, OR force you to wrap your hands around her neck and finish what Jessica started.

Haleigh would cut her own hands OFF before she'd raise them against her sister. Malice was delusional if she believed otherwise. There were certain things Malice would be better off not attempting to force Haleigh to do, lest Diana squander this golden opportunity. But in some ways, Haleigh would have to comply, and she knew that. Scion and Malice played a game of strategy far more complex than chess. They knew things about each other that no others were privy to. They had their own agendas and desires, and they had interests and goals in common. This FIRST night, they tested each other, to determine just how the rest of the game was to be played: what was fair, and what was foul.

We have an agreement, then.

Diana seized her daughter by her shoulders, and spun her around to face Ava.

Malice: Welcome to your NEW life, Scion. Say GOODBYE to the old, and only THEN will you be able to step forward, and take your place BESIDE me.

Both her hands down at her side in tightly formed fists, Scion practically vibrated with the effort required to obey Diana, but she stepped towards her sister to carry out the command.

Yes, mother.....

She thought sullenly. She could 'hear' Malice's cold laughter in her mind, and feel the piercing stare, even with her back turned. Ava being here was a double edged sword. As much as Haleigh loved her sister and found solace in her presence, it gave Malice even MORE leverage over the hybrid, and they both knew it. Haleigh wished she could talk Ava out of this, but knew better than to try. All she could do was convince her sister to adapt and conform. She sat next to Ava at the bar, looking back at the White King and Queen, who watched her expectantly. Haleigh briefly wondered just what the handsome and mysterious man thought about all this, then she turned to her sister and began.

"You said you'd die for me, but that's NOT what I need or want. I need you to comply, because I want you to LIVE. If we're going to do this, there are certain compromises required. I'm a member of the White Court now. I cannot vacillate, my allegiance must be INDISPUTABLE. Before I walked into this place, I CRUSHED every part of me that objected to this, and I silenced that little voice inside that screamed it was all wrong."

Ava drained her glass and Haleigh filled it right back up for her. The words had a bitter taste as they left Haleigh's mouth, but she said them any way, because it was the best choice.

"YOU must do the same. We play by DIANA'S rules now. If you don't make peace with her, it's not JUST the Sisterhood we'd have to fend off, but the entire UNITED Inner Circle. The White Court is COMPLETE. The other courts are still being composed, I've no idea how far along they are yet, but as you can see, they have hundreds of members to choose from here. CERTAINLY tonight will yield more appointments under Helena and Kelly. The odds are NOT in our favor and if we die? You'll move on.... but I'm pretty sure I'll wake up on Sheena Island in a new body. Don't force me through that, don't give Diana the satisfaction of seeing me grieve."

 

[Persephone]

Time had passed long enough for Ava to down a few shots of cognac and watch Diana and Haleigh stare at each other. If she didn't know what was going on she'd think they were both insane. The burn on the alcohol dried Ava's throat, causing her to wave over a waiter and order a glass of ice water. It was then that Ava watched as Diana took a step towards Haleigh and spun her around to face Ava.

"Oh don't mind me, just drinking your expensive booze while you two stand silently together."

Raising her glass of cognac in a salute before downing another shot. She knew whatever Diana told Haleigh to do, Haleigh was going to do it. So Ava sat there, waiting for the inevitable.

Haleigh: "You said you'd die for me, but that's NOT what I need or want. I need you to comply, because I want you to LIVE. If we're going to do this, there are certain compromises required."

Ava's eyes shifted over to Diana, who was peering at both of them along side Lord Ravena. So, Diana DIDN'T order a kill strike, how interesting. AND telling. Finally, Ava looked back at Haleigh.

Haleigh: "I'm a member of the White Court now. I cannot vacillate, my allegiance must be INDISPUTABLE. Before I walked into this place, I CRUSHED every part of me that objected to this, and I silenced that little voice inside that screamed it was all wrong. YOU must do the same."

[evenly] "So be a puppy? How fun."

Haleigh gave her a look--THE look. The look that said if Ava didn't sit down and shut up, she WOULD die and by Haleigh's hand. Rolling her eyes shut with a sigh, she relented. She'd lived a long life and death didn't scare her. But she didn't want to put Haleigh through that torture of having to be the one to do it--to live with that grief and guilt.

"Sorry, continue."

Haleigh: "We play by DIANA'S rules now. If you don't make peace with her, it's not JUST the Sisterhood we'd have to fend off, but the entire UNITED Inner Circle. The White Court is COMPLETE. The other courts are still being composed, I've no idea how far along they are yet, but as you can see, they have hundreds of members to choose from here. CERTAINLY tonight will yield more appointments under Helena and Kelly. The odds are NOT in our favor and if we die? You'll move on.... but I'm pretty sure I'll wake up on Sheena Island in a new body. Don't force me through that, don't give Diana the satisfaction of seeing me grieve."

She could feel Diana's eyes boring a hole through her as she sat for a moment in silence. Although her sister was composed and stoic on the outside, Ava could tell she was struggling with this which killed her. Ava had never been the type of roll over to anyone...but in these circumstances she had to. She came here for one reason and one reason alone, to protect and help her sister. And if that meant she had to suck up her pride and place nice with Diana, then she would.

"Good thing white has never been my color."

Downing her final shot of alcohol, Ava put the empty tumbler down on the bar and slid it away from her.

"I'll calmly speak to the Black or Red Queens inquiring about their courts. If they're interested, i'll join. If not, i'll speak with you, Diana."

Looking back over at the white queen, Ava's expression even and her tone matched. That seemed to satisfy Diana enough to finally slink away triumphantly and leave the sidebar for the Lunar Ballroom. Ava watched until the moment she disappeared, and kept her eyes in that direction, staring. It was a blow to her ego, that was for sure. But it had to be done.

"So....red or black?"

She deadpanned, finally looking back at her sister. Placing her hand on Haleigh's, Ava finally gave her a small smile.

"It'll be fine. Diana had a lot to say but she didn't kill me, so that's a good sign. I think she realizes I would be a good asset, though she'd never admit it. So i'll keep my mouth shut and stay in check. Shouldn't be too hard, right?"

Ava scoffed softly, knowing it was going to be extremely hard to stay silent and essentially 'bow down' to Diana. But she would do it for Haleigh.

"I should go clean myself up. I can't sell myself to the other Queens looking like I was just in a bar fight."

Squeezing Haleigh's hand, she knew this was no longer the place for warm, sisterly hugs.

"I'll see you later."

Slipping off the barstool, Ava exited the sidebar and headed to her assigned chambers to freshen up.

 

[Enchantrah]

She had Archer right where she wanted him...and the night was surely going to be spent burning the calories she drank in champagne. But suddenly she felt a 'call', like she wanted to go DANCING?! Narrowing her eyes, she definitely did NOT want to dance right now, but god damn fucking Kelly Shaw and her god damn fucking spells. Groaning out., Helena finally stood upright

"Well, seems your balls will have to stay blue a little longer darling. Unless of course you decided to find another side piece at the party, then by all means enjoy."

Lowering herself back down, she was again a mere whisper from Archers lips.

"But what a waste that would be."

Finally, she planted her lips onto his in a full fledged heated kiss. Soaking in his whisky sent, Helena's red nails dug into the sensitive skin of his jawline. She allowed the kiss to go on a few moments longer before pulling away. Running her hands down Archers chest, Helena picked up the delicate cross necklace he wore and pulled it apart revealing a small scoop of cocaine. Smiling with her eyes, she took a hit before closing the cross back up and patting his chest.

"I'll see you later....maybe."

Walking away from the bed, Helena headed out of her chambers and back to the Lunar Ballroom.

Diana: Come long, Helena. just SEDATE your little boy toy. He'll keep for a while. This should be FUN.

"It BETTER be. I was about to make that boy sing the Star Spangled Banner and question his roots."

Finally entering the Lunar Ballroom, Helena looked almost pissed as she saw the entire place had changed into Studio 54, complete with guests dressed in 70's attire. THIS? THIS was the reason Helena wasn't wrestling naked with Archer?!

"Are you KIDDING me?"

Weaving between guests, Helena spotted both Kelly and Diana in full 70's gear dancing.

"Way to DATE us Kelly."

Speaking of the Queen's ages. Rolling her eyes, Helena's body immediately morphed into a new outfit [except red] and her blonde hair was now in an appropriate 70's updo. Feeling the effects of the cocaine, Helena finally smirked.

"Fine, fine. I'll have my personal fun later. Until then..."

Taking Diana's hand, she spun the woman and laughed.

"Lets dance!"

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Inner Circle Salon: Sidebar

Haleigh could tell Ava didn't like what she was hearing, and she used her Classic-Ava sarcasm to cope with it. But she accepted it, and Haleigh's relief was palpable. She was a little jealous that Ava could slam back some cognac and ride a buzz, but other than THAT, she was glad to hear her sister's consent.

Ava: So....red or black?

"Well the Black Court is run by Alison and Cameron's cross-time mother, so you KNOW that ship is gonna sink SO FAST. Helena's a bitch, but she's a clever bitch. And a tough bitch. And a chill bitch. Yeah, I'm gonna say Red is the better choice, given the assumption neither of us gets killed tonight."

Ava: It'll be fine. Diana had a lot to say but she didn't kill me, so that's a good sign. I think she realizes I would be a good asset, though she'd never admit it. So I'll keep my mouth shut and stay in check. Shouldn't be too hard, right?

"Yeah, it's a piece of cake. Filled with broken glass and neurotoxins."

She replied dryly, giving her sister a look of comical alarm.

Ava: I should go clean myself up. I can't sell myself to the other Queens looking like I was just in a bar fight. I'll see you later.

Haleigh nodded, and watched Ava go. She got up as well, and sauntered out of the salon. She wasn't exactly in the mood to party, like the rest of Hellfire, and after her round with Cameron, she wasn't prowling for a lay, either. She decided it was time to stalk the halls of the White Wing, and get a really good look at her new 'home'.