A Weekend Affair # 6 - The Red Bacchanalia

[Black Widow]

Hellfire -- The Bacchanalia

Cameron, after not getting his way, turned into an asshole of the highest order in record time. He accused her of jumping into Alek's arms immediately, which was an egregious exaggeration. He also took a stab at Alek's treatment of Ashley, attempting to sabotage Haleigh's relationship with him in a very blatant effort to scare her away from Alek. Haleigh called him out on it, and suggested it was a problem that he found it acceptable to use such tactics to coerce her to do what he wanted.

He brushed it off, implying that she would fuck it up with Alek, like she always did with everything else. She stared at him sadly. Even if he couldn't read her mind anymore, he knew her well enough to know what to say to hurt her.

"You demean yourself, attempting to publicly degrade your own wife."

She replied, and then she told him that she'd have her lawyer begin the divorce proceedings, since he was obvious he had lied when he promised to do it himself if she just listened. Clearly he'd assumed she would just forgive him, but she wasn't ready to do that, and the way he was acting now only reinforced her instincts.

He told her he'd take his time signing the paperwork, and that he'd have some custody requests. Of course he would make this as difficult as possible for her. Of course he didn't care it would ultimately hurt his own son to be so contentious. She sighed, and nodded.

His spite was cruel and painful but she wouldn't engage in this. She just wanted to be done with it. She turned from him, glancing around the party somberly. Then he stabbed her in the back, with what he'd kept concealed while he was still trying to reel her in again.

Cameron: Speaking of which, Elena and my daughter Carolina will be staying here for the Summer. They arrive tomorrow.

She turned to look at him again, watching as he gloated and show-boated for the crowd. She wanted to hit him. She wanted to hurt him as much as he was willfully hurting her, but she held back, and she wasn't sure why.

Alek: Oh, and Haleigh's fine, Cameron, she didn't actually drink any of the poison, thanks for asking.

"It's no use, Alek. He doesn't give a fuck."

She said, before asking if he minded calling it a night, because she was exhausted. He agreed and led her out of the party, asking her if she was hungry.

"No,"

She began as they walked down the hall towards his suite, but then her stomach loudly grumbled. Maybe it was just Cameron that suppressed her appetite.

"Yes? I don't know..."

Alek: What can I do to make you feel better?

She glanced at him appreciatively, her hand slipping into his.

"Forge Cameron's signatures on the divorce papers."

She deadpanned with a wry smile.

"Kiss me until I forget that he ruined our night."

She added, a bit more seriously.

 

[Hex]

Even in John's steel form, the deadly glare he gave Brienne as he picked up his Queen and cradled her in his arms was enough for Brienne to know her admission of innocents wouldn't be enough. He told the guards to hold her until it was confirmed she wasn't involved, Brienne opening her mouth to object, the thought of being treated like a prisoner both insulting and outrageous. But Brienne stopped, blinking her line of sight to Archer's dead body. It would be futile to argue with John, and it would likely cause him to attack her out of anger. So for the first time in a very long time, Brienne didn't fight back, conceding to the Black King's wishes as he disappeared with Ava from the catacombs. It was then she felt a hand on her arm, making Brienne look over to see Bretta.

Bretta: “How are you doing?”

They weren't friends by any means, but Bretta was one of the few people who Brienne could actually tolerate. She was a bit nice for her liking, but that somehow worked for her as Red Queen. It was a good balance between herself and Juliette. Brienne didn't even know how to answer Bretta's question, gently shaking her head as she looked at her King.

"I'm not the one currently without a heart..."

She responded somberly, though many would argue differently.

"I didn't know he would do this, Bretta. I didn't know how far his anger had gotten..."

She whispered, wishing maybe had she not gotten angry at him at brunch, maybe she could have talked him down. He asked for her help and she turned him away because he didn't want to get wrapped up into his mess, but there she was, wrapped up in it anyway and being blamed by default. Archer and Brienne's relationship was rocky, but it was something that suited them both until the end....until Archer became too full of pride and anger to think straight.

Erika: "You can stay in The White Wing. Or go with Bretta if you prefer...Brienne..I had to. He would've have killed her...I had no choice..But I know you didn't have anything to do with this Brienne, and I'll do whatever I can to help. No witch will burn on my watch."

Brienne looked at Erika, holding her King's heart, covered in spatters of blood. They had a long history of petty games and snide jabs at each others expense, but for the first time, Brienne actually saw Erika for who she was and what she could be beyond the mania. She barely nodded, her eyes drawn back to her King.

"...thank you."

She finally said, a rare moment for Brienne and Erika. It was then Zach stepped up next to her, Brienne looking over at him with an almost glazed over expression. He gave her a small smile, but honestly, she was too beside herself to even pretend like she was okay to save face.

Zach: "Do you want to head back to the party, or....?"

She shook her head no. That party had ended the moment Cameron arrived, and died along with Archer. Brienne slowly moved over to Archer and knelt down next to him. Her fingers went to the black diamond encrusted cross necklace she had given to him, pulling it from his neck.

"I"m so sorry, Archie.."

She softly whispered between them before finally standing and walking back to Zach. She clutched the cross in her hand as they made their way back up to the White Wing and into his chambers. For some reason, it felt less like suite and more like a prison now. Turning to Zach, her eyes were pained as he embraced her, Brienne clutching him tightly and burying her face into his neck.

Zach: "I won't let them persecute you for Archer's recklessness. I know you didn't have anything to do with it."

"They've already convicted me. I'm a damn prisoner here, Zach...I went from regent to inmate in the span of a night."

Brienne's attitude and actions throughout the weekend didn't exactly solidify her innocence thus far.

"How can I ever come back from this? The Black Court [American] will never be an ally with me....your King and Queen despise me....Ashley will likely back whatever they decide, and Alek? [scoffing out with hurt] He doesn't actually like me beyond what's between my legs."

Brienne felt herself getting worked up, her breathing beginning to increase as she tried to keep herself in check.

"For the first time in a long time...I don't know what to do."

 

[Savage]

Hellfire -- The Bacchanalia

His Queen led him to a couch where they could cuddle up while the servants brought them food and drink. AJ put his arm around her shoulders as she laid against him. Their phones buzzed simultaneously, but AJ didn't reach for his, as there was no need (thankfully) since Ashley read from hers. Apparently the European Black King was dead after having attacked Ava. Ashley deemed him a fool and asked who would attack a goddess.

"Someone with a death wish, I suppose."

Ash: Guess there's an open spot for a king in London after all.

"Too bad we'll never get the little bear to leave now. I'm glad you made that deal with him earlier. At least now we'll keep in him line until we don't care anymore."

He replied as the servant came back. His queen pulled off a piece of meat and fed it to him. He smiled as he chewed, watching her throw back some whiskey like it was water. She asked him if he really thought Haleigh and Cameron were going to get divorced, and he shrugged.

"I wouldn't go so far as to say they were ever really married to begin with."

He replied honestly. She suggested she go speak with Liam and Juliette, and he began to get up, before she told him he didn't need to. It was just as well, since he'd realized after that first bite, he was absolutely ravenous.

"I shall be right here, should you need me."

 

[Berserker]

The Bacchanalia

Alek and Haleigh exited the party, and he didn't mind, though he could have partied all night if she'd wanted to, as high as he was feeling. Because she hadn't gone back to Cameron. She hadn't told him she couldn't see him anymore. And she was coming back to his suite to stay. He asked if she was hungry, knowing she hadn't had a chance to eat at the party before Cameron showed up.

Haleigh: "No. Yes? I don't know..."

He chuckled.

"It's okay. When there's something you want, we'll get it. No big deal."

He wanted to make her feel better, but he didn't know how. Well, except for the one thing, but maybe she wouldn't want to do that after all that had happened. So he asked her what he could do.

Her hand took his, making him smile.

Haleigh: "Forge Cameron's signatures on the divorce papers."

"I could do make that happen, you know."

But then she had a better idea.

Haleigh: "Kiss me until I forget that he ruined our night."

He stopped in the hallway, turning towards her, drawing her to him with their clasped hands. Our night. He liked the sound of it.

"Just one of many nights ahead."

He took his time, tucking some hair behind her ear with his free hand, then letting his fingers lightly stroke her cheek. He wet his lips, his eyes locking on hers. And then he leaned towards her, and kissed her. He kept it slow at first, passionate, not forceful as their kisses often were. He allowed himself to get lost in her lips, his arms wrapping her up tightly. When they parted, he planted one more peck on her lips, before a smile spread over his face.

"So, do you feel like you might want to find out what a Roman wears under his pteruges?"

He grinned at her, his eyebrows raised in interrogation. He took her hand again, rubbing his thumb over the back of it as they continued on to the King's suite. He dimmed the lights as they entered, and walked her into the bedroom. His hands were stroking her bare arms when he moved behind her, his lips beginning to kiss her neck. His fingers then went to the zipper of her dress.

"May I?"

Slowly, he slid the zipper down, exposing her back, and slipped his hands up over her shoulders under the straps of the dress, then pushed them off her shoulders. He reached up and turned her chin towards him so he could find her mouth again with his, his blood stirring as he kissed her greedily. The hand that held her face slipped down to her breast, squeezing it gently.

"Haleigh..."

Her name came out in a whisper.

 

[Steel]

The Black King & Queen's Suite

He didn't mind holding her, not at all, but it worried him that she seemed afraid. Her bout with human-ness was not sitting well with her, and for once he was thankful that she had the power of Persephone within her normally. Strangely, he didn't remember being less afraid for her after it had happened than before, when there were so many more things that could have hurt her. It was only now that he saw the good side of what had been done to Ava all those years ago. The thing he had hated Stavros and Diana for ever since.

Ava wanted to go to Paris as soon as possible, something which he couldn't really argue with, even if he wanted to. It would be good for her to get away, from what had happened, from all this crap. What had happened between Cameron and Haleigh was a shame, but as long as Cameron wasn't going to physically harm Haleigh, there wasn't much they could do, or that they would want to do. Did it make things more difficult, maybe - but Alek and Ashley had been at odds and on the same court for a while, and they all managed. Plus, it did strengthen the Black Court's position, being the most stable.

So if Ava wanted a trip, she would get it, and he would make it all about her. He suggested a train to the country, filled with her favorites: wine and horses.

Ava: "And i'll make sure to only pack your two favorite things: dresses and lingerie."

He grinned, the way she raised her eyebrows teasingly at him incredibly adorable - and sexy.

"You can leave the dresses at home."

They came together, kissing slowly, and then Ava reached for the body wash, giving him some before she started to rub it over his own wet skin. She suggested buying out the entire train, but he was finding it difficult to concentrate on anything but what she was doing with her hands. He placed his hands on her shoulders and started to massage them with the soap, then moving down to her breasts (which he quite enjoyed), then her stomach, then her back.

Ava: "Or...find another blonde to keep us company.."

She kissed him again, and it was over too soon. He was starting to need more.

Ava: "We'll just call earlier....a preview of what's to come..."

He grimaced a little.

"A very painful preview."

His soapy hands slid down over her ass, as he looked at her with a smoldering dark gaze.

"I don't want to just watch next time."

 

[Silver]

Hellfire Club – The Catacombs


:: After John had taken Ava back to the Black Wing, presumably, judging by the way he flew past Bretta and her Court members, Bretta dismissed both of them and then turned to the open doorway. Swallowing hard, she approached it with caution as well as apprehension. Her first look was of Archer Fairchild’s body. Bretta sighed inwardly. The late Black King made no bones about the fact that he thought that the entire Red Court was a complete farce. In fact, Bretta secretly was of the opinion that Archer was in the stages of planning a mini coup of his own, in which he would get rid of her entire Court – including Bretta herself. Still, she found that she would actually miss the tosser. ::

:: Though her eyes did lay upon on Erika King for a split second, her mind didn’t have time to register her as she was more focused on her sister Queen. She gently asked how Brienne was doing. ::

Brienne: "I'm not the one currently without a heart... I didn't know he would do this, Bretta. I didn't know how far his anger had gotten..."

*surprised*: “No, of course you didn’t.”

:: Inwardly, Bretta felt disgust on Brienne’s behalf. It was just like Archer to get himself killed and leave Brienne to deal with the aftermath. ::

*awkwardly*: “I know that we aren’t really friends, but I am here for you; whatever you need.”

:: It was then that The White Princess spoke up. ::

Erika: "You can stay in The White Wing. Or go with Bretta if you prefer...Brienne..I had to. He would've have killed her... I had no choice..But I know you didn't have anything to do with this Brienne, and I'll do whatever I can to help. No witch will burn on my watch."

:: Though Bretta wasn’t a fan of Erika’s, she felt a rush of compassion for her then. She smiled gently at her. ::

*gently*: “Of course you didn’t, dear. You’re a hero.”

:: Bretta waited until both Zach and Brienne were gone before speaking again. ::

“Between you and me, Your Highness, Archer Fairchild’s days were numbered whether he realized it or not and whether he liked it or not. So, no, you don't have to explain yourself."

:: She smiled again at Erika, taking in her blood-spattered dress. ::

“You should get changed, dear, and maybe you want to put that [Archer’s heart] down? You’re ruining your beautiful dress.”

:: She nodded once more at Erika before she, too, took her leave and headed back up to the Red Wing. ::

 

[Persephone]

One thing was for certain, a beautiful hotel room overlooking the Effiel Tower was being booked the next day, as was a private train that would take them through the South of France to a beautiful vineyard with horses. She didn't want to continue putting Haleigh, Cameron, and Alek's relationship problems in front of her own relationship. After almost dying, it was time to put John and herself first. She promised him that she would make sure she brought his two favorite things; nothing but dresses and lingerie for him to enjoy.

John: "You can leave the dresses at home."

She chuckled at that, knowing he was 100% serious. Ava kissed him as she reached around his back to grab the body wash. Pouring some into his hand, and then her own, she began to wash John's body as his own hands went to her shoulders and started to massage them. Her muscles were so sore and tense that his touch felt amazing, making Ava almost lose her train of thought. She smiled as they moved down to her breasts, suggesting that perhaps another blonde could keep them company in France. John's hands slid down her stomach and around her back, Ava pressing her body against his to close what remaining distance there was left. She suggested that earlier was a simple preview of what was to come, but John grimaced.

John: "A very painful preview."

Ava looked sympathetically up at him, groaning for him with a little chuckle.

"I'm sorry, babe."

Cameron may not have won Haleigh back, but he won the award for worst timing ever, that was for certain.

John: "I don't want to just watch next time."

Ava rose to her toes as John gripped her ass, their lips now barely touching.

"You won't have to."

She promised before kissing him. The only time any regent or Inner Circle member would contact them is if Hellfire was under attack. Outside of that, there would be zero interruptions for them.

The hot water began to rinse the suds off their bodies as they kissed, Ava's arms sliding up and around John's shoulders. She could feel him against her leg, his arousal apparent. Ava broke their kiss, her eyes shut as she rested her forehead against his, gently shaking it.

"Not here."

She whispered, though her voice was already soft and horse from the attack. On any other day, at any other time, having sex in the shower would have been hot and fun and definitely something Ava would have already initiated. But after what she had just endured, she didn't want it to be quick and against the shower wall. She wanted to savor being with John, because she was almost taken away from him. The thought once again like a knife to her heart, Ava's arms clutching him tighter if that was at all possible.

"I want to lay with you in our bed, wrapped safely in your arms.."

Ava finally lifted her head to look at him, the water masking the tears that fell from her eyes.

"And make love to you."

 

[Liam Forbes]

Hellfire - The Bacchanalia

Juliette and Liam had both been quite impressed by the party. It was certainly done well, and had plenty to offer. Liam sampled the wine from the fountains, and Juliette tasted one servant or another. It was all going splendid, until Cameron King returned.

Very quickly, all the questions that had accrued since Brunch were answered. The security increase, the MIA American White King, the very apparent closeness between his wife and the Red King, it all began to make sense.

It was like watching a train go off the rails and overturn in a fiery, chaotic crash, seeing Haleigh and Cameron argue. Liam filled his goblet with a particularly full-bodied red, while Juliette selected a barely legal male to take for the night, and they went to sit on a plush sofa while the fight continued its downward spiral.

Eventually the fight ended, but not without animosity. Juliette and Liam discussed how they were going to adjust their own alliance. It was ideal to remain neutral, and try to work with Haleigh and Cameron both separately, if possible, but they also entertained a split approach, where Juliette and Liam took opposing 'sides'. The question was whether Juliette should take Haleigh's side and Liam take Cameron's, or vice versa.

Ashley: I'm sorry it's taken me so long to come say hello. How was your day?

"Oh, please, you're quite forgiven. We gathered you've been busy doing damage control."

Juliette: Eet 'as been a vonderfully exciting day none dze less.

Liam smiled from behind his wine. On his left, Juliette had wedged the boy in between him and her. She paused in her drinking to give Ashley a reddish smile, and her victim had a chance to look around drunkenly before his head dropped gently against Liam's shoulder. Liam himself shifted a bit, giving the impression of making room for Ashley on his right.

"Won't you sit? She's the only one who bites."

He assured her, as Juliette went back to her meal. Another servant brought over a platter of skewered mountain lion meat and grilled vegetables.

"Ah, excellent."

He said, scratching his head where the tussle with the cougar had injured him. Erika had healed it with magic, but it still tingled occasionally, or maybe that was just psychological. Liam took a skewer and told the serving girl to stay near for the time being.

"That necklace does look marvelous on My Queen, does it not? I'm afraid with all the excitement today, we haven't had a chance to thank your King for gifting it to us."

 

[Orion]

Hellfire - The White Rook's Suite

Zach brought Brienne back to his suite, because she didn't want to go back to the party, not that he could blame her. Her King had just been killed, after all. He could tell she wasn't doing well, so he pulled her into his arms and promised he wouldn't let her be persecuted for Archer's actions, and that he knew she hadn't been a part of it.

Brienne: They've already convicted me. I'm a damn prisoner here, Zach...I went from regent to inmate in the span of a night.

"Emotions are heightened right now, Brie. They just experienced an attack, but give them time to process the trauma and settle down, they'll realize they're overreacting."

He told her, his hand brushing through her hair slowly. She wasn't so easily convinced, and she gave an assessment of her standing with the other American regents.

"Hey, hey..."

He said, draining away her anxiety.

"Nothing is set in stone, okay? It's been one weekend... Sure, you're at a bit of disadvantage, but your other courts have developed ties, and our regents will not want to jeopardize those efforts, so they'll tread somewhat carefully."

Brienne: For the first time in a long time...I don't know what to do.

"Well you don't have to know. Just take it one step at a time. I imagine they'll want to talk to you, but all you'll need to do is remain calm, condemn Archer's attack, answer their questions.... it'll work out. They're probably mostly concerned you'll retaliate. You might want to start thinking about who you want to make King now, somebody you trust to watch your back. And any Archer loyalists on your Court may need to be dealt with ASAP."

He suggested, just speaking the ideas that came to mind, trying to help give her a few things to work with, so she wouldn't feel so lost.

"But you'll have time to think it all over. It's your Court now, you're in control of personnel and direction. It's not too late to make the alliances you want. And I meant what I said before... you can stay with me as long as you like. As a guest, not a prisoner. You ARE still a Queen, Brie."

 

[Masque]

Hellfire Club – The Bacchanalia


It may have been inappropriate and it may not have been the time, but Gia would be damned if her King and Queen started throwing punches at each other in the middle of the Red Event...which was why she spoke up. Somebody had to be the voice of reason and she had decided that it ought to have been her. A lot of good that did her, though, so she sat back down and gulped down her wine.

Cameron said some things, Haleigh said some things...it was clear that they both had reached an impasse of sorts. It was all so exhausting. It didn’t help when Cameron mentioned that his daughter with Elena, as well as Elena herself, was arriving tomorrow for the summer.

Fan-fucking-tastic.

This summer was going to be one for the ages. Sighing, Gia frowned at the table. There was nothing here for a kid. At least, not what Carolina was used to. Or so Gia thought. To her, a Hellfire childhood was normal. She sighed again and went after Cameron. She may have reaffirmed her loyalty to Haleigh, but she was still The White King’s Bishop as well – for the time being anyway. In the event that the Kings would have a contentious divorce, so much so that Haleigh literally left to form her own Court with Alek, Gia knew that she would follow in a heartbeat. That is, if Haleigh would have her. For now, though, Gia would see to it that Carolina would have some new things to keep her occupied when she arrived. She approached Cameron.

“Your Majesty...about Carolina. What are her interests? What does she like? I can get her room all set up for her right now, if you’d like.”

Whatever people wanted or needed, Gia could get it. She had an unlimted supply of resources that she could go to at any time, day or night, and get whatever it was that she needed.

 

[Hex]

Zach: "Emotions are heightened right now, Brie. They just experienced an attack, but give them time to process the trauma and settle down, they'll realize they're overreacting."

Whether she was innocent or not in their eyes, the damage had been done. She came into the weekend not caring about the Americans, and now she was leaving a single Queen with zero allies because of her anti social behavior and Archer's homicidal acts. It wasn't exactly a shining example of what her court was really like, but there was no way she could come back from it now. She felt her body start to relax as Zach drained the building anxiety within her, very grateful that he could do that.

Zach: "Hey, hey...Nothing is set in stone, okay? It's been one weekend... Sure, you're at a bit of disadvantage, but your other courts have developed ties, and our regents will not want to jeopardize those efforts, so they'll tread somewhat carefully."

"So i'm the ugly stepchild of my branch. Perfect."

Brienne deadpanned grimly. She knew Zach was only trying to comfort her and make her see the bigger picture, but it still fucking sucked knowing that the American's wanted nothing to do with her court and would only tolerate her because of their loyalties to the White and Red courts. She had run her court smoothly thus far, her and Archer building their reputations in Europe as well as their resources. But all of that was dead and gone now, literally and figuratively. For the first time since becoming the Black Queen, Brienne had absolutely no idea what to do or how to come back from this. She would have to rebuild everything from scratch.

Zach: "Well you don't have to know. Just take it one step at a time. I imagine they'll want to talk to you, but all you'll need to do is remain calm, condemn Archer's attack, answer their questions.... it'll work out. They're probably mostly concerned you'll retaliate."

"If I wanted retaliation, I would have attacked Erika the moment I saw her holding Archer's heart."

Brienne interjected with a sigh. But she knew the American's wouldn't see it that way.

Zach: "You might want to start thinking about who you want to make King now, somebody you trust to watch your back. And any Archer loyalists on your Court may need to be dealt with ASAP."

Zach was right. She had to clean house when she returned to Europe, killing anyone who had any sort of sympathy for Archer. While she didn't want to see Archer die, his loyalist would die for him. And if they saw that Brienne didn't retaliate after the death of their King, they could uprise against her. That wouldn't stand, especially since she was now the sole ruler of her court. She gave Zach a half smile.

"You wouldn't happen to be looking for a promotion? It comes with the perk of having everything in shambles and no benefits whatsoever."

She joked with a roll of her eyes. The whole situation was utterly ridiculous.

Zach: "But you'll have time to think it all over. It's your Court now, you're in control of personnel and direction. It's not too late to make the alliances you want."

Brienne nodded, knowing now she could build the court she wanted. She could turn the Black Court back into the powerhouse it was back when her grandmother ruled it. There were benefits to starting over, but she was still skeptical on the alliances portion after how shitty the weekend went.

"I just feel like i'm back at square one again. But maybe it's for the best....maybe now I can prove i'm not just a bitch with a title and last name."

She was trying to look on the bright side. Why? She didn't know. Maybe Zach was rubbing off on her.

Zach: "And I meant what I said before... you can stay with me as long as you like. As a guest, not a prisoner. You ARE still a Queen, Brie."

Brienne looked at Zach in pure disbelief and awe as he kept trying to build up her confidence in the situation instead of tearing her further down. He was the type of person she needed by her side. To calm her when she felt overwhelmed. To help her see the situation clearly instead of acting purely off emotions like Archer used to. Her hands lifted to his jawline, gently drawing them back to the nape of his neck.

"Thank you."

Brienne looked down, hesitating a moment before finally lifting her eyes back to Zach.

"You really would make an amazing King, Zach. I wish...[sighing] you didn't have such strong loyalties here. I would take you in heartbeat."

She said honestly, truthfully, and transparently. But then Brienne suddenly felt overly exposed, back tracking a bit. He was being sweet to her to make her feel better and calm her down, and she was responding by being overly aggressive and needy. It was weird and very unlike her. So she retracted her hands, giving him a casual smile and diverting the conversation back to what she was good at: sex.

"Anyway...regardless of my court situation, we'll still have fun if you decide to visit. If you thought my panties collection was extensive here..."

She joked with a smirk.

 

[Ruby]

Hellfire Club – Red Wing


:: Damien opened the door and Cass barrelled right on in. Bear got up instantly and gave a happy bark and a tail wag as he bounded over. Cass noted that some servant had brought up all three of their goblets. Unfortunately, they just fueled the fire that was burning deep inside of Cass. She had hated tonight. It was bad enough that all of Hellfire America had basically rejected her and kicked her out but now she had been forced to support some of them? Oh FUCK NO. They did not deserve her support. Though she was relieved that Ava, Haleigh, and the babies were all okay, Cass was pissed. ::

Damien: “Well, that was some roller coaster, hmm? I told you that it would be fun in the Red Court.”

:: Cass scoffed and sat down. Bear came over and laid his head down in her lap. She petted him on his head, but it did nothing to soothe the hurt and anger she still felt deep inside. Damien sat down next to her. ::

Damien: “Are you okay?”

:: Cass looked at him and narrowed her eyes. She couldn’t help but size him up. No, she wasn’t okay. Could she trust him with her true feelings though? She shook her head. ::

“No, I’m not.”

:: Biting her lip, she turned her whole body sideways to face him. She took one of his hands in both of hers and looked into his baby blue eyes. ::

“Can I...can I share my feelings with you? I need to vent, but I don’t want...”

I don’t want you to abandon me like so many people have already.

<< Damien smiled gently. Because of how she had been treated, Cassie was afraid of showing her true feelings. What she didn’t know, or what she had forgotten, was that she was also of value. Damien would make damn sure that he and the rest of his Court, would help Cassie to see that she actually did have value; that she is worth it. >>

Damien: *gently*: “Whatever you need to say, you can say to me. There’s no fear. I will always listen.” [smirking] “But I would like to change out of my outfit first, if you don’t mind.”

:: Damien’s voice had a teasing quality to it, which made Cass laugh. Cass nodded in agreement and they left to change separately. Bear followed her into her room and waited as she changed into her pjs. Cass knelt down and threw her arms around the dog’s neck, hugging him. ::

“I’m glad you’re coming with me, boy. Star’s coming too.”

:: Her ice-blue eyes cast about the room and settled onto Damien’s red and black button down shirt. He had given it to her to wear earlier that day. She put it on now and went out to the main area with Bear following behind her. Damien had changed as well into a light cotton t-shirt and a pair of cotton pants. She sat down beside him and sighed. ::

“I just...really hated tonight. I’m sorry if I sound like a broken record and I’m sorry if I can’t seem to get past it, but goddamnit, I’m hurt. The entire time I was either supporting The White Queen or I was supporting The Black Queen. Why should I even support these people when they were so quick to toss me aside? Damien, I was loyal to Hellfire America for a lone while now. I would’ve given my life for these people. I still would, to be quite honest, and that’s why it bloody fucking hurts so bad. They didn’t even give me a chance to prove myself once I broke out of Kelly’s hold. Instead they all just tossed me aside like I was nothing; like I am nothing! Don’t I matter? I’m just as strong as they are. I’m just as good as they are. And they expect me to just go and help them out when the truth is that not one of them would help me out if I were in danger? FUCK NO. It’s not fair, and it’s not right.”

:: Damien hugged her then, and it made her feel good because he didn’t tell her to just get the fuck over it. He allowed her to feel what she was feeling. Still, there were a few things that she would never tell Damien. Like, for instance, that she actually didn’t like the color red. Black was her color. It had been long before Benjamin Lewis, Amanda Soto, John Steele, Daniel Reed, and, yes, even Little Miss Unmerged Ava Cassadine were all even born. She also didn’t include him on her thoughts about the future and how she was going to make damn sure that Hellfire Europe would be bigger and better than Hellfire America. She had a few ideas on how to go about doing that, which she didn’t include him on because he would deem it too dangerous. Right now, though, those kind of thoughts were comforting to her. ::

 

[Steel]

The Black King & Queen's Suite

They kissed, the hot water rinsing their bodies, the shower filled with steam. He ran his hands down her arms when they came around his shoulders. He wanted her, just as fiercely as he did every time she was near, and when she was touching him like this it only exacerbated the feeling. He didn't want to push her after everything she'd been through, but his body was responding, and she obviously noticed. She shook her head.

Ava: "Not here."

He whispered against her lips.

"Whatever you want."

Ava: "I want to lay with you in our bed, wrapped safely in your arms.."

"Of course. There's no need to rush things. You need your rest, after all you've been through."

He looked down at her sympathetically, understanding completely. Then she looked up at him, and there was something unexpected in her face.

Ava: "And make love to you."

As soon as her words registered, he was kissing her, reaching back to shut off the water. He guided her through the door, and then paused, picking up the fluffy black towel and wrapping it around her shoulders. He kissed her again, using it to pull her back into the bedroom. When they neared the bed, he saw that a maid had changed the sheets, and candles had been lit to softly light the room with a low glow. He began toweling her body off, slowly, gently, before wrapping the towel around his own waist and taking her hand, leading her to the bed and pulling down the covers. He had her lay down, and his eyes traveled her body, before dropping the towel and sliding in next to her.

He laid on his side facing her, his hand taking hers and intertwining their fingers together.

"I love you, my dark Queen."

He leaned in, and kissed her lips softly.

 

[Valkyrie]

The Bacchanalia

Ashley for not the first time, or even the thousandth, wished she had lived in Roman times. She looked around her, imagining it keenly. To be able to lounge like this, on a couch, laying against her Knight, eating, drinking, watching her guards fight. It was the life.

She got a text, and told AJ about Archer. Moron. Who frickin' attacks a goddess in her own house?

AJ: "Someone with a death wish, I suppose."

She made a noise of agreement.

Then looked up at him.

"Do you think he really was trying to die?"

She waved her hand.

"All the drinking, drugs...reckless behavior?"

It hadn't occurred to her, but it fit somehow. She mused that they got their open king position in London.

AJ: "Too bad we'll never get the little bear to leave now. I'm glad you made that deal with him earlier. At least now we'll keep in him line until we don't care anymore."

She smiled, pleased that he thought she had done well.

"Well, at least it is something. A chance. Too bad Haleigh's not looking for a change of pace, though - Alek would surely follow her."

She asked if he thought Cameron & Haleigh would actually get a divorce.

AJ: "I wouldn't go so far as to say they were ever really married to begin with."

Ashley shrugged.

"True. But perhaps that will come out of this, should they make up. Of course, that will make it harder on us, but I'm not really bothered by it. As long as we don't have to worry about either of them killing any one of us."

She noticed Liam and Juliette were still at the party, unlike most of the other regents, so she thought she should go over and say hi. And, of course, she genuinely liked the pair, though she didn't say that to AJ. She did, however, let him stay behind and get something more to eat, given his feelings about Juliette.

AJ: "I shall be right here, should you need me."

"As always."

She smiled.

"I won't be long."

She sauntered over to their table, where they were both eating, she was happy to see. She didn't know if Juliette would feel out of place, but she had tried to impress upon her that the servants were there for anything she might require. Ashley apologized for not coming over to them earlier.

Liam: "Oh, please, you're quite forgiven. We gathered you've been busy doing damage control."

"One of my least favorite things. But still, the party wasn't completely ruined."

Juliette: Eet 'as been a vonderfully exciting day none dze less.

Ashley smiled.

"That is good to hear."

Liam made room for her next to him, and Ashley moved to sit.

Liam: "Won't you sit? She's the only one who bites."

Ashley chuckled.

"I find that hard to believe."

She put a hand to her chest and raised her eyebrows.

"And perhaps I do."

She laughed again, settling into her seat. A plate of food was brought to the table for Liam.

"I'm so glad you both are sampling the food and drink. "

Liam: "That necklace does look marvelous on My Queen, does it not? I'm afraid with all the excitement today, we haven't had a chance to thank your King for gifting it to us."

"I will pass on your compliments. You both honor me and my court by Juliette wearing it - I know it is not the correct color. But it does look lovely - I can't imagine it looking more beautiful on anyone else. It so perfectly sets off the rose of your cheek."

She smiled warmly.

"It has been a trying day, but I am confident the White Court will be able to move on from this. After all, it is not as common a thing anymore, the King and Queen of a court being a couple. Your Black Court, for example. And my own."

Of course, Archer was dead.

"I did wish to ask you, if you will indulge me - how did the two of you manage, before Juliette began White Queen? Was there much opposition from the other members in London?"

 

[Persephone]

Their bodies were pressed together as they kissed under the hot water fall of the shower. She could feel John's arousal against her making her pull back from their kiss. She wanted him, more than she ever had before, but not like this.

John: "Whatever you want."

He whispered against her lips, and Ava knew he thought she didn't want him at all.

"I want to lay with you in our bed, wrapped safely in your arms.."

He interjected, wanting to take care of her like always. She smiled despite herself, the tears full in her eyes. How did she get so lucky to have someone who loved her so unconditionally that he would put everything he wanted aside just to make her feel comfortable and safe?

John: "Of course. There's no need to rush things. You need your rest, after all you've been through."

Ava looked up, their eyes meeting. She didn't want to rest. She wanted him. She wanted to make love to him and feel every part of him as they connected as one. She wanted to savor the moment and make it last for as long as possible because it was almost ripped away from her. John didn't hesitate then, his lips capturing hers instantly. Ava's eyes shut and arms stayed circled around his neck as he shut the water off behind her and began to back her out of the shower. He broke the kiss long enough to wrap a towel around her before their lips were locked again. John used the towel to pull her with him, though he didn't need to give much effort. She would follow him wherever he went.

As they entered their main bedroom, John pulled back and Ava opened her eyes to see the room was lit with candles and the fireplace was roaring. She smiled softly, the warmth of the room more comforting than anyone could understand. As John began to towel dry her off, Ava's hands slid down his shoulders and chest, her mouth pressing against his pecks. Once he stopped drying her, Ava looked up as he took her hand and lead her to the freshly changed bedding. Climbing under the warm comforter, she laid down and turned onto her side, her eyes watching as John surveyed her body. Seeing the look in his eyes made her breathing more rapid, her chest rising and falling noticeably. Then, he dropped his towel and Ava's eyes traveled down the length of his body, seeing exactly how turned on he was. John climbed in next to her, the blanket enveloping them body as he slid his body close to hers. He took her hand within his, intertwining their fingers, causing Ava' heart to beat rapidly. Her dark eyes were so filled with love, her free hand moving to his cheek.

John: "I love you, my dark Queen."

"I love you..."

She managed to whisper back before John's lips pressed against hers. Ava inwardly sighed, her body completely relaxing as she melted into his kiss. Ava slowly rolled onto John, her legs straddling him as she parted her lips to taste him slowly and passionately. Ava chest was pressed against his, savoring their kiss, not rushing things. She could feel him strained against her, and even though she wanted him as badly as he wanted her, Ava took it slow, kissing her way down his neck and chest. Then finally, she rose her hips enough to slip her hand between them, helping guide him to her. Her eyes were locked with John's as she pressed her hips down, taking him fully inside her. She moaned lowly at the feeling, a feeling she had almost lost. Ava's free hand found his, interlinking their fingers so both hands were locked together. She began to slowly roll her hips as her lips found his again, kissing him tenderly.

"John..."

She moaned softly between their kiss, her hips rocking at a rhythmic pace. To be as one with him, making love to him, knowing she was so close to never being with him again, made Ava overwhelmed with emotion. Tears fell from the corners of her eyes as their bodies moved slowly together, but not tears of sadness, tears of love and pure happiness knowing this would be their life, always.

"I never want this to end.."

She breathlessly said as her head dipped down between his neck and eyes shut, absorbing in ever bit of pleasure he was giving her.

 

[Black Widow]

Hellfire -- The Bacchanalia

Alek offered to have room service bring them food, but Haleigh was equal parts queasy and hungry. He told her it was no big deal, that they could get food whenever she wanted it, and she nodded.

"Yeah, but you haven't eaten either... please don't starve yourself waiting for me."
She replied with concern, and then he sweetly asked if there was anything he could do to make her feel better. She suggested he could forge Cameron’s signatures on the divorce papers, with a bit of sarcasm, because it make not make her feel better but it’d certainly be easier that way. He replied that he could do that, which made her crack a smile.

“No, no... I want it to be legitimate, even if I have to wait him out.”

She replied, and then she asked him to kiss her until she forgot how Cameron had ruined her night. Alek stopped them in the Hall, his hands pushing her hair out of her face. She looked up into blue eyes she never wanted to look away from.

Alek: Just one of many nights ahead.

The thought made her heart flutter, and then he kissed her. It was indeed enough to make her forget all her problems. It was just his arms around her, and the taste of him, and nothing else.

Alek: So, do you feel like you might want to find out what a Roman wears under his pteruges?

“Mmm.... well..I am a little curious....and I’m sure your concealing a sword under there somewhere....”

She replied, her hand slipping behind her, between the leather flaps to feel for him. The thin fabric of his tunic was in the way, but still, he was more than a handful, even at a half hardened state. He took her hand in his, and pulled her into his suite, dimming the lights and moving in behind her. His hands were on her skin, his lips on her neck, and soon her body was responding to his cues, even before his fingers went to unzip her dress. He didn’t have to ask, but she nodded anyway.

He pushed her straps off her shoulders, and the top half of her dress fell to her waist. She leaned her bare back against his chest, as their mouths met again. She was kicking off her sandals, pushing the dress down past her hips and leaning fully back against him when he said her name. She turned around to face him then, her hands rubbing his chest and sliding up around his neck as she pressed her breasts against the paint on his skin.

“Alek....”

She said, looking up into his eyes again, a powerful need overtaking her.

“I want you.... I always have, always will...”

She admitted, and then she kissed him again, and pulled him with her as she backed into his bed. Her hands slid back down again, to his waistband so she could help him out of the only thing in their way now.

 

[Berserker]

The Red Wing

Alek was trying to make sure Haleigh was comfortable, that she had enough to eat. Even if it was just ice cream for eating her feelings. She wasn't sure, and he wasn't trying to stress her out about it, so he said it would be there when she wanted it.

Haleigh: "Yeah, but you haven't eaten either... please don't starve yourself waiting for me."

"Believe me, I will not starve...but I wasn't eating that appalling variety of meat at the party either."

Any other day, he would have picked up the spit of roasted bear and thrown it into the sand of the arena, but he had been distracted by other things. And he had been forced into that abomination of an agreement with Ashley. But, he could afford to bide his time. Even now, things were looking up. He looked at Haleigh, asking what he could do to make her feel better. He wanted her to know she could rely on him, that he was with her in this, in their child - in her children.

They kissed in the hallway, and he asked her if she felt like finding out what he had on under his skirt.

Haleigh: “Mmm.... well..I am a little curious....and I’m sure your concealing a sword under there somewhere....”

"Oh, to be sure. And you're going to need two hands for it."

Which she reached out to discover for herself, the act making him want her even more. He pulled her into his suite and to the bedroom, then kissed her while he removed her dress, his hands roaming her body, finding her breasts. He said her name softly, with all the desire he felt for her, and she turned to face him, her hands sliding up his chest. He wondered if this would last, if she would still look at him this way tomorrow, and the next day, and the next. For he could surely never look at another woman. His heart was in his throat as she said his name.

Haleigh: “Alek...I want you.... I always have, always will...”

And she kissed him, backing them up to the bed. Her fingers went to his waistband, and there was a little rumble in his chest as she did so.

"God, Haleigh, you're not like any woman I've ever met. I would do anything for you."

His skirt dropped to the ground, exposing him to her, and he felt as if he had been bound in chains for a lifetime and just now released. He kissed her forcefully, pushing her back onto the bed, his tongue tasting her and savoring every moment. He climbed onto the bed after her, leaning onto his side so his hands were free to caress her skin as they kissed. One hand traveled lower, slipping between her legs, stroking her, finding her ready for him. He was throbbing, bursting, for her, needing her so badly it was overpowering.

He rolled so he was above her, and pulled back to look into her eyes. Resting on his elbows, his hands framed her face, pushing strands of hair off it. He just gazed at her for a long moment, and then the hint of a small played on his lips. He reached down and drew one thigh up, and then the other, so that he was now between them. He teased her, rubbing himself against her sex, but couldn't hold off for long. The desire was too strong, and he slid inside her, sheathing himself fully, shuddering with pleasure at the feel of their joining. His lips found hers again while he began to move, certain that nothing had ever felt so good in his entire life.

 

[Steel]

The Black King & Queen's Suite

They both said I love you, which still felt very powerful to him, as they lay together in their bed. They took their time, kissing, touching, making it last. Then Ava rolled on top of him, making his eyebrows go up. She must have been feeling better, acting more like herself, and it was sexy as hell. She kissed him again, deeply, and he returned it, his desire fueled by the feel of her body pressed against his. Her mouth was on his neck, then his chest, and he thought she might be headed lower, but instead she rose up, her eyes locked with his, and took him inside her. He matched her own moan as he slid deep in, as amazing as the first time. She interlinked the fingers of their hands and began to move above him, her mouth pressing against his at the same time.

She moaned his name, and he almost cried out. He could see the tears in her eyes, and reached up to brush them away.

"My love..."

Ava: "I never want this to end.."

"It won't."

Her mouth went to the crook of his neck, and his arm slipped around her back, holding her to him as she moved. He could smell the perfume of her hair.

"God, Ava, I want you so much I feel like I could die."

His hips met hers in their rhythmic motion, pressing deep, touching her most intimate places. He let go of her other hand so he could have both on her body, stroking her soft skin, reaching down to grasp her buttocks, pulling her deeper against him. He kissed her shoulder, then brought his hands to her waist so he could lift her, letting his mouth travel to her breasts. The change in her angle made him cry out with pleasure, his tongue lapping at her nipples.

And then he stopped, looking up into her face, and pulled her body back down against his chest, so the lengths of them were pressed together. One hand was in her hair, the other on the small of her back. He was sheathed completely inside of her, slowing his movements down to almost nothing, the anticipation maddening as he met her eyes.

"I feel like I'm going to wake up from a dream at any moment."

He started moving in bigger motions then, still agonizingly slowly. It felt like he was touching every part of her at once. His breathing was heavy, and he wanted to let go so badly, to take her with reckless abandon. His need threatened to overcome all other stops.

"There will never be another for me. Never."

 

[Persephone]

Ava rolled her hips slowly against John, the overwhelming feeling of being with him and feeling him making tears fall from her eyes. Her life had been so close to being taken away. Her body made weak with only the most primal methods of trying to fight him off. She never felt more vulnerable in her life, and in that time, all she thought about was trying to survive so she could be with the man she loved one more time. She needed John - she always had. And though tears fell onto her cheeks, they were of pure happiness that she was able to have this time with him when it very well could not have happened.

John wiped the tears from her cheeks before Ava dipped her face into the crook of his neck.

John: "My love..."

"I'm sorry..."

She whispered, wanting to make sure he knew she wasn't upset, but the complete opposite.

"I never want this to end..."

She admitted as John's arm slid around her back and pulled her closer to him.

John: "It won't."

And she knew it wasn't a promise, but a fact. Their bodies were in sync, moving as one, connecting again and again slowly but so perfectly.

John: "God, Ava, I want you so much I feel like I could die."

"You'll always have, John. Always."

Ava's lips kissed his neck as his hands traveled down to her ass, gripping them and pushing her deeper into his thrusts. She moaned out deeply, eyes rolling shut at the incredible feeling. She could barely keep herself up, the pleasure so intense despite how slow they were going. The emotions, the feeling, everything, was more than just sex, it was them sharing their love. John kissed her shoulder and helped raise her, Ava placing her hands on his shoulders to steady herself. His mouth went to her breasts as she let her head fall back in ecstasy, grinding her hips down against him continuously. Her moans filled the space until she felt John stop making her look down at him. Her hair was already starting to dry, curling around her face. She moved her hand to his cheek, giving him a smile until finally, he pulled her back down against him, so their bodies were completely pressed together. He was pressed deep inside her, his movements all but stopped. Ava's heart was racing and her breathing slightly labored. She didn't want him to stop, but she also couldn't help but feel the overwhelming connection they had in that moment that made it want to last forever. His hands on her body, hers holding his face. She looked down into his eyes, seeing how much he loved her, more than ever before.

John: "I feel like I'm going to wake up from a dream at any moment."

"You're not...I'm right here..."

She softly spoke between them, promising him this was very much real and would not end. His movements started again, long and slow. Ava's body trembled at the feeling, inhaling a sharp breath of pleasure as she tried to steady her breathing. She could see he was struggling as much as she was, wanting to let go and release. Her lips were barely touching his, her hot breath rapid against them.

John: "There will never be another for me. Never."

With that Ava pressed her lips hungrily against John's, her hips now moving more rapidly and with a pure, unadulterated need. The heat between them under the comforter made her body slick with sweat. She took him again and again, her mouth never leaving his until she could feel the pressure building with in. Breaking their kiss, her breathing was shaky, but need was apparent in her voice as she spoke between her whimpers of pleasure.

"Let go, babe...I want you...I need all of you..."

 

[Steel]

The Black King and Queen's Suite

Ava kissed him, with an urgency matched with her hips, as she started to move faster. He felt her body tensing, her skin flushed and slick with sweat.

Ava: "Let go, babe...I want you...I need all of you..."

He had been holding back, taking his time, when he really needed her so badly he wanted to do anything but. The anticipation had built up so much that he thought he might explode. So when she gave him the okay, he rolled her onto her back, their mouths still locked in a feverish kiss. His arms slid down under her ass, the to the backs of her thighs, then finally around to the front. He pushed her bent legs wider apart, then broke their kiss. He paused, watching her face, inches from his own, and then his head dipped to the crook of her neck as he thrust into her with a grunt. As she had asked, he didn't hold back, pressing into her again and again, driving deep. One hand gripped her breast, while his hips continued to move. When she came he felt her shudder beneath him, her body holding him within her, until his own pressure built so that he spilled inside her.

He began kissing her neck, not wanting it to be over, and then moved to her mouth, taking it again. He felt his own love as well as her love for him so keenly in that moment, he wanted to touch all of her at once, kiss every inch of her, show her how special she was to him. His fingertips grazed one cheek, which his lips kissed the other.

"Are you okay, babe?"