A Weekend Affair # 7 - Exodus

Hellfire -- The Red King’s Suite

Alek: What, is Brienne completely panick stricken now that Arch is dead? She barely knows Zach.

Haleigh gave an adroit smile as she leaned into Alek, her right hand traveling up his chest as her left wrapped around his waist to pull him close.

"How he makes her feel appears to be all she needs to know."

Alek: I would have expected her to be more receptive to ruling alone. Though he'll be a figurehead at best.

"Many will think so."

She replied, still smiling. Zach was one of the most frequently underestimated among them, especially by men. Most considered his powerset flowery at best. Having sway over feelings wasn't a very glamorous ability, but it was insidiously potent. The White Rook knew how to motivate, and how to manipulate people to get what he wanted. He could have any of the women here, even the ones who were choosing to be exclusive with their partners. And he could get anyone to do anything.

"Take it from someone with first-hand experience. Zach is very addictive. I wouldn't be surprised to find that the figurehead ended up being Brienne."

Alek: And she tried to steal me from you, eh?

"Tried and failed."

She reiterated, her smile dropping flat.

Alek: I didn't realize a competition was going on.

"Who suggested that? If you're implying she could compete, I'll have to go murder her."

She replied coolly. He was having fun with her, she knew, but something about it struck her nerves. She didn't like thinking about him with that voodoo temptress, but she didn't want to try to control him, either. More unsettling than plain jealousy was the nagging idea that if she tried to make him choose, she'd lose him altogether. After the disaster with Cameron, she wasn't sure she could stand discovering that yet another person she thought she could depend on would just leave when push came to shove. She let the conversation [and her mental focus] switch back to Zach, discussing how he would never let the Europeans take up arms against them.

Alek: But will he stand by and allow us to take up arms against them, should the time come?

"With Zach in Europe, the time won't come. Before this whole weekend affair, I said we needed people there we could trust. We can't run that branch from here without agents over there. We made a lot of progress with the regents this weekend. We may have cemented the bonds we needed, having him there will ensure it."

She said, and then they briefly commented on Ava, until Alek's hand slipped into her robe. Once that happened, all the rest seemed to melt away. He told her he was sorry he had to leave her in bed alone, and she challenged him to prove it. He scooped her up off her feet, provoking a wicked laugh from her when he suggested they start over and go back to bed. He pulled off his clothes, and reached to pull the tie on her robe. But just as she began to slip it off her shoulders, there was a knock on the door. One of the guards called through the barrier, saying that the European White Queen had arrived, as Haleigh had requested.

"Oh, right.... I forgot about that."

She sighed, pulling her robe back on and tying it.
 
Hellfire - The Red Wing

Juliette had been instructing the servants to pack and load her belongings when guards approached her and requested she accompany them to see her American counterpart. It had been a long weekend and she was ready to go, but Haleigh was an old friend, and there hadn't been a good chance to visit with her the last couple of days. Liam mentioned going to see the White King without her, which was quite fine, given that she was a bit piqued by the fact that Cameron had stood her up.

So she nodded her consent, to Liam's idea and the guards' request. Her King kissed her cheek, and the guards escorted her out of the guest suite and through the mansion to the Red Wing. Perhaps prompted by her perplexed expression, one of the guards explained that they were taking her to the Red King's suite, where Haleigh had stayed since fighting with her husband. She was amused to be led back to the suite that her and Liam had been brought to before, by the American Red Queen on the night of the White Party.

Haleigh opened the door, wrapped in a red robe. Juliette lifted an eye brow at that, and then smiled in appreciation. She was invited into the suite, and followed Haleigh over to sofa where she sat. Juliette sat down next to her.

"It 'as been a vile since I vas summoned."

Haleigh: It's not like that, Julie. I do apologize for how inattentive I've been this weekend. Things have been crazy.

Juliette gave an understanding smile, and reached slowly, taking Haleigh's braided hair in her hand and following it down her shoulder with her fingertips.

"I 'ave been vell attended to by your subjects, no doubt by your dee-rection. Yet.... some desires vere not quite assuaged."

She suggested, making eye contact with Haleigh. Her stare bored deeply into the American White Queen’s eyes, urging her to relax.

Détendez-vous, et être réceptif au baiser d'un Vampyre...
[Relax, and be receptive to the kiss of a Vampire....]
 
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Hellfire - The Inner Circle Gym

Liam got up early so he could get in a workout before he had to spend hours sitting on the flight back to Europe. Zach, the White Show Pony Rook, had given him the access code to the private gym for the Inner Circle. It was a very decent set up, well equipped for any athlete. Today was Upper body, and Liam moved methodically through bench presses, pull-ups, curls, dips, and rows.

It was a good opportunity to get his thoughts in order after a whirlwind weekend. He hadn’t had high expectations of this trip, really. He didn’t know hardly any of the people here, and only barely knew Haleigh, the one who’d invited them all. Yet he’d been impressed by some, intrigued by others. Alliances had been made, or so it would seem. Many of the Americans, it seemed to Liam, would betray them the instant they were no longer useful. Still, much could be gained from working with them.

It did seem they’d made gains this weekend, though they’d lost as well; last night their Black King had been killed. The story was self defense. Liam wasn’t sure what to make of that. He wondered if the big scene made by the American White regents was merely a distraction from the murder of Archer. It remained to be seen what Brienne would do about it.

After working up a good sweat, he headed back to the guest suite he shared with his Queen and took a shower. When he emerged, Juliette was directing the staff, who was packing them up. Liam got dressed and told his Queen that he was off to speak with Cameron, as they’d previously discussed. She was being summoned by the American White Queen, so the timing was perfect. Liam stepped out into the hall as Juliette was escorted off. He glanced at the nearest sentry and requested to be brought to the White King. He was led down the hall to another room, an office of sorts. Just as they reached the door, it opened, with Brienne on the other side. She smiled, turned away, and then disappeared in front of his eyes. Liam looked through the opening to see the American White King looking back at him.

“Well, she seemed to be in a surprisingly good mood. May I come in?”

He asked, and when there was no objection, he entered and shut the door behind him. There was more than one elephant in the room.

“For the record, Juliette and I won’t be seeking vengeance for Archer.... unless we find some evidence of foul play.”

He said to break the ice.

“Regrettably we haven’t had much time to talk alliance. It had almost seemed a given yesterday, at the Red Hunt. But with last night’s development.... My Queen is leaning towards taking your wife’s side.... but I like to keep an open mind.”

If the argument hadn’t been a ruse, the split would have to be navigated carefully. Liam saw no reason to make Cameron their enemy. But he wondered just what Cameron had to offer them, or what threat he posed.
 
Clara Oswald
Clara Oswald
Watching Tom Hardy in the gym? Yes, please.
Hellfire -- The Red King’s Suite

As disappointing as it was to be interrupted, there still was business to attend to. Haleigh had been so busy this weekend that she’d hardly gotten the chance to catch up with Juliette, and present her gift. Of all the new regents in Europe, Juliette was really the only one Haleigh had been looking forward to seeing. The others were interchangeable. The European White King, Liam Forbes, seemed promising, but even he could be replaced if necessary. It all depended on just how attached Juliette was to the man. Haleigh was happy to see when she opened the door that Juliette had come alone.

The Vampire Queen took a moment to observe Haleigh, and then gave a suggestive smile. No, she had not gotten dressed in white before receiving Juliette. Yes, that had been purposeful. Alek wasn’t the only one who liked to see her in red. Juliette had once seen Haleigh’s usual white painted in blood, and Haleigh intended to use the evocative imagery to her benefit.

It worked as intended; as soon as they sat, Juliette was taking liberties where she could. There was a mild protestation about being summoned, but an immediate acceptance of the apology Haleigh offered. Juliette intoned that her desires had been attended to well, or at least most of them had. There was something intense in the vampire’s gaze. Instinctively, Haleigh knew what Juliette was implying.

“A certain thirst, not quite slaked?”

Juliette gave an almost imperceptible nod, her growing smirk revealing fangs as the vampire took Haleigh’s braid and guided it off behind her shoulder, baring her neck.

“Well, I wouldn’t want to deprive you,”

She began, and then she glanced at Alek.

“Alek, would you mind?”

She asked, gesturing to a metallic case that had been sitting over on the table. It was large and weighty, with a hinged top and heavy duty latches. When he brought it over to the coffee table in front of them, Haleigh thanked him, and then she turned back to Juliette, who had a look of momentary disappointment that melted when she went to open the case. It was filled with what looked like wine bottles, carefully nestled in a sponge-type material that kept them still and upright.

Juliette: Bottled blood?

She said, her tone lacking genuine enthusiasm. Haleigh reached into the case and grasped the neck of one of the bottles. It was warm to the touch as she pulled it from the foam cradle and placed it in Juliette’s lap. It had a simple foil label, silver in color and embossed with a Black Widow spider in a web.

“Not just any blood.”

Haleigh replied, and Juliette did appear to be pleased at that.

“It took me weeks to donate this much. The case will keep it incubated for as long as necessary. But Juliette— I must caution you. If any of it spills and isn’t cleaned up carefully, or if it’s introduced to the immune system of any living creature.... you’ll have a very serious matter on your hands.”
 
The Red King's Suite

Alek was completely and utterly prepared to make it up to Haleigh that he had had to leave her alone so early in the morning, resetting everything to the state it was in before he had left with a teasing grin. He loved making her laugh - but not as much as he loved having her naked in his bed. To that end he reached out and untied the red robe she was wearing, slipping his hand inside to feel her soft skin and preparing to slip it off her completely.

When there was a knock on the door.

"Fuck OFF!" he called gruffly into the general direction of the door.

A guard - one he would have to have decapitated later - responded that Juliette was there, as Haleigh had apparently asked her to do.

Haleigh: "Oh, right.... I forgot about that."

She closed and tied the robe again, eliciting an exasperated noise from him.

"Wait - what? Can't you just tell her you'll see her at breakfast?"

He groaned, turning to slip his pants back on. Haleigh went to answer the door, and kept his eyes on their visitor as Haleigh led her into the suite and both sat on the sofa. Alek lowered himself on the arm of a nearby chair, arms crossed over his bare chest. He recalled the surveillance footage of the last time Juliette had been in his suite...

And things were looking promising for a replay, the way Juliette was nearly stroking Haleigh. And it was almost as if she was doing it with her voice as much as her fingers. The two exchanged pleasantries.

Juliette: "I 'ave been vell attended to by your subjects, no doubt by your dee-rection. Yet.... some desires vere not quite assuaged."

Oh, really?

Haleigh: “A certain thirst, not quite slaked? Well, I wouldn’t want to deprive you,”

Alek swallowed.

Haleigh gestured to a metal box on the table, asking him to get it for her.

Haleigh: “Alek, would you mind?”

One corner of his mouth turned up at that.

"No, I wouldn't mind at all."

He went to the table and lifted the box with one hand, carrying it to where Haleigh and Juliette sat, holding it out for Haleigh to take. When Juliette opened the box, it revealed bottles of Haleigh's blood, a gift to the vampire. His eyes shifted to Haleigh's face. What was she playing at? Didn't she know what someone could do with vials of Haleigh's blood? But of course, she did. This represented an amazing amount of trust in the European White Queen. AND it salvaged the White Court's weekend out of the hands of the Red.

Dirty pool, indeed.

Haleigh: “It took me weeks to donate this much. The case will keep it incubated for as long as necessary. But Juliette— I must caution you. If any of it spills and isn’t cleaned up carefully, or if it’s introduced to the immune system of any living creature...you’ll have a very serious matter on your hands.”

"Indeed."

He was still watching Haleigh. He knew she had a plan. That this wasn't just some gesture of goodwill. But what was it?
 
The White King's Study

Brienne: "We have a deal."

A smile curled up in The White King's lips. It may not have been much, but it was a start, and he needed all the help he could get. His sister had murdered The Black King, and he had been busy murdering his reputation this weekend. Having The Black Queen show her support for him in a public manner was a starting point in rebuilding relationships and strengthening his position among the inner circles.

"I need to fill John and Ava in on our conversation."

Brienne: "Extend my regrets once again for what Archer did. His actions are not a reflection of me or my court."

Had Cameron been in better standing, he might have had something cheeky to say, something disparaging, but he was in no position, and like it or not, he needed Brienne Shaw.

"Will do. Thank you for your time, Brienne. To new beginnings."

He toasted The Black Queen as she began to make her way out of his study, just as Liam began to head in. Cameron wanted desperately to just focus his time on his daughter, get everything perfect for her arrival, but he could not ignore business. He had gotten himself into quite a predicament, and if he wanted to make sure his daughter was protected, he was going to have to make every right move from here on out. He needed agency.

Liam: "Well, she seemed to be in a suprisingly good mood. May I come in?"

Cameron nodded.

"It appears I don't insight the urge for every woman I see to kill me on sight. At least not yet. Yes, please come in Liam."

Liam sat down across from him, as Cameron fixed what he knew to be Liam's drink of choice and set it on the table next to him, before taking a seat himself in his plush white chair.

Liam: "For the record, Juliette and I won't be seeking vengeance for Archer...unless we find some evidence of foul play."

"Our inner circle appreciates your diplomacy. The situation is particularly black and white, though if you wish to investigate, you have free reign of our intelligence and security details."

[pausing]

"I apologize for standing up Juliette last night. It's not in my nature to rebuke such an incredible woman..."

[pausing yet again]

"...this weekend not withstanding."

Liam: "Regrettably we haven't had much time to talk alliance. It had almost seemed a given yesterday, at the Red Hunt. But with last n ight's development...My Queen is leaning towards taking your wife's side...but I like to keep an open mind."

Cameron thought for a moment, taking another sip of his scotch, deciding that what he'd endured this weekend allowed him to shirk any sense of propriety when it came to the appropriate time to have a drink. This was tricky. He was still..so angry at Haleigh. And Alek. But there had been enough blood shed this weekend, and the fact that Liam was here, it meant something. Even after Cameron's display, he had opportunity.

"There is no need to take a side...despite what you saw last night. The passion in our words is the same passion we have for Hellfire. It's who we are. It's what we've worked our entire lives for. No domestic matter will change that."

The revelation that his mother was married to Stavros Cassadine and that he had just signed away MysTech to her hit him like a ton of bricks in the moment.

"Domestic matters have however, changed our original course. MysTech is now firmly in the hands of Kelly King Cassadine, which marks a new chapter for the American courts. And after this weekend, I'm quite fond of new chapters."

The White King gripped his glass, and leaned back in his chair. He did not mention the breaking up of Sub Zero and creation of TriCell. That would look good for nobody, and honestly it was not his battle to fight - that was one for the black court to deal with.

"Of course this actually does little to cripple us. MysTech has been fun. It has been our bread and butter...for many years, but it has also been a bit of a thorn in our side. Kept us from focusing on bigger pictures, other avenues. It frees me up to pursue my passions while keeping the organization in my family's name. Tell me, Liam. What are your passions? Your philosophy on the function of Hellfire and our overall goals? Perhaps there is a point in which our ambitions meet?"

Cameron couldn't bravado his way through this. There were holes in his reputation, his standing, but he was still a King. He could still be of use. He still had resources most didn't. He still value...for now. And right now, he needed people who shared his vision, and he was genuinely interested in the normally stoic and tight lipped White King.
 
Hellfire - The White King's Study

Cameron: It appears I don't insight the urge for every woman I see to kill me on sight. At least not yet. Yes, please come in Liam.

Liam offered an amused smile, but no comment, as he entered the study and sat down. Cameron seemed to read his mind, pouring him an Irish Coffee, complete with a healthy amount of Jameson whiskey and Bailey's cream. That's right, the man did read minds. Liam raised his mug with a gratified grin.

"Much obliged."

He said, and then he went on to say that neither he nor Juliette was interested in pursuing vengeance for Archer, if there was no evidence to suggest they should. Even then, Liam would hesitate to bother, though Juliette might insist on retribution, and there was propriety to consider.

Cameron: Our inner circle appreciates your diplomacy. The situation is particularly black and white, though if you wish to investigate, you have free reign of our intelligence and security details.

"We appreciate the transparency. Truthfully, the man was a thorn in my side, even before he became King. What Evelyn saw in him, I'll never know. I found him to be quite disagreeable, and then there was his audacious attack on my Bishop. Speaking of her, how is Heidi, really?"

He asked, a warmth in his tone. He hoped she was happier here than she had been in Europe, and that she was being treated well. If not, he might find a taste for vengeance after all. He had wanted to kill Archer for the strike against Heidi, but Juliette had convinced him not to. Juliette had a special place in his heart and mind, and it was beyond anything he could attempt to explain. Cameron apologized for standing Juliette up, explaining that it wasn't his nature to do so.

"Well, be that as it may, I'm afraid she took it rather personally."

He replied, and then he explained that there hadn't been time to cement a true alliance, and now Juliette was leaning towards taking Haleigh's side. Cameron explained, after a careful pause, that there was no need to take sides. He assured Liam that domestic matters would not get in the way of Hellfire business. Liam doubted that, but he let his American counterpart continue to talk, about Mystech shifting to someone else's hands. That was something that gave Liam a bit of uncertainty. Mystech was integral to his plans, at least to some degree. He wasn't familiar with this woman, Kelly King Cassadine. but the surnames suggested she was family -- to Cameron and that aloof American Black Queen, Ava. Cameron was asking after his passions, mining for information. Liam sipped his coffee slowly.

"My passions? Nothing particularly original, I'll admit. Money, power, prestige. I will live a long time, I need to set myself up for that. Are you interested in getting off the aging, vulnerable electrical infrastructure of this city and converting your home and business to clean nuclear power?"

He asked without duplicity. Enough time had been wasted this weekend.

"As far as Hellfire, the organization, serves me exceedingly well, in that it provides me with numerous connections to the elite of society. I don't mind serving it in return; the more powerful Hellfire becomes, the more I do as well."
 
Hellfire -- The Red King’s Suite

Juliette had attempted to glamour Haleigh, but the girl had always been more headstrong than most, even when she was a young Princess. Still, Juliette could tell from Haleigh's demeanor that she didn't have to ask if the hybrid remembered the time she'd vacationed to Hellfire Europe, years ago. Juliette herself had certainly not forgotten.

Haleigh: A certain thirst, not quite slaked?

Juliette smiled, her fangs showing themselves as she moved Haleigh's hair away from her neck. She could see the vein pulsing.

Her blood....

Haleigh: Well, I wouldn’t want to deprive you,

She said, and Juliette's mouth watered. But then she turned away, asking the American Red King if he minded bringing over a metallic chest of sorts. She didn't want whatever was in that box, but she politely received it, and opened the latches to reveal a dozen black glass bottles carefully packed for transport.

"Bottled Blood?"

She asked, none too pleased. Bottled blood was not as good as drinking from the source. It was cold and usually tasted stale. She couldn't get excited about bottled blood when she could have a live donor instead. But according to Haleigh, it wasn't just any blood. As it was placed in her lap, she realized it was warm still, and the label bore Haleigh's personal mark.

Haleigh: It took me weeks to donate this much. The case will keep it incubated for as long as necessary. But Juliette— I must caution you. If any of it spills and isn’t cleaned up carefully, or if it’s introduced to the immune system of any living creature...you’ll have a very serious matter on your hands.

Alek: Indeed.

"Oui, I understahnd."

She said, looking down at the bottle in her hands. She could still remember the taste of it. Female blood had a sweetness to it, males had salt. But Haleigh's blood, TO infected blood, had spice. Juliette wouldn't spill a drop of it, wouldn't dare let it be wasted. Haleigh's hand found her arm.

Haleigh: Cameron may be nothing more than empty promises, but I'm not. I take good care of my friend's needs.

"I see dzat."

She replied, locking eyes with Haleigh again. She understood then, the separation between the American White King and Queen had not been theater. Haleigh was starting to move independently. Now this was interesting. Juliette wondered how Liam was fairing with Cameron at the moment.

Haleigh: We are friends, aren't we, Julie?

"But of course, mon Cheri. Vat vould make you dzink odzer-vise?"

Haleigh: Archer.

"I 'ad no part in dzat madness, I assure you.”
 
Hellfire -- The Red King’s Suite

Haleigh softened the vamp up with the gift, and then broached the subject of Archer. Juliette immediate disavowed the attack.

“Good. I’d loathe to learn there was a scheme to eliminate my sister in Black. It’s not about obligation to Hellfire strength here in America. Black, Red, White, they are not divisions. We are a family, if you attack one, you attack us all.“

Juliette: Good dzing I ‘ave not attacked.

“Yes. We will be taking command of SubZero.”

Juliette: Vat?!

Juliette asked with sharp alarm, but Haleigh was stone cold calm.

“Archer attacked us. He forfeited his life and his business.”

Juliette: Ve rely on SubZero’s services—

Haleigh smiled warmly.

“You can continue to do so, my friend. And I’ll cut you into my share of the profit. It’s a done deal. I understand you’ve made some business arrangements with the Red Queen?”

Juliette: Dzat ees more Liam’s dzing.

“You’ll encourage him to keep Alek in the loop, I hope?”

She suggested, only barely a question. Juliette glanced at Alek for a moment, assessing him with her gaze, and then looked back at Haleigh with a sly smile.

Juliette: Eef you een-sist.

“I do. Alek.... is there anything else you would like from the European White Queen, while we have her here?”
 
Hellfire -- The Red Queen’s Suite

AJ declared he’d start with Ash’s back first, and his Queen admitted that she liked it when he took charge. He smiled at that, as he applied soap to her back and shoulders, reflecting that he was quite lucky. The previous Red Queen had demanded subservience. He would have never fallen for that Queen.

Ash made a happy noise, and told him she’d bring her bow to the cabin, so they could enjoy the quiet. Her head tilted back, resting on his chest, bringing them even closer together. He could see down the front of her body, and it stoked his desire.

“I’d love that, My Queen.”

He replied in her ear quietly, more massaging her back than washing it now. She asked him if he was almost done with her back, and took his hand, guiding it around to her breast. Then she told him there was a big spot here that needed his attention. Savage laughed, a deep rumbling sound in his chest that became more growl than anything else by the end.

“Here? Or here?”

He asked, his one hand cupping her breast as his other glided around and down her front to slip between her legs. He pulled her body back against his needily.

“My Ashley.....”

He began, but he couldn’t think of the words to tell her how badly he wanted her. He could only feel it, the powerful instinct that overtook him. She was all he could think about. He kissed her neck, and pressed himself inside her abruptly.
 
The Red King's Suite

Alek watched as Juliette and Haleigh bathed in a sea of innuendo, which didn't exactly bother him. But when Haleigh presented Juliette with vials of her blood, it got his attention. He was silent, trying to work out what Haleigh's game was.

Haleigh: Cameron may be nothing more than empty promises, but I'm not. I take good care of my friend's needs.

Haleigh suggested that Archer's actions called into question her friendship with Juliette, something she categorically denied. But he wondered about the London White Queen. She was clearly powerful, an excellent manipulator. And now she had separated herself from Archer. Liam was the power in the London branch, but Juliette was clearly the battery that kept him running.

Haleigh: “Good. I’d loathe to learn there was a scheme to eliminate my sister in Black. It’s not about obligation to Hellfire strength here in America. Black, Red, White, they are not divisions. We are a family, if you attack one, you attack us all.“

"Now more than ever."

Alek moved to sit on the arm of the sofa, next to Haleigh, putting a hand on her shoulder supportively.

Haleigh: “We will be taking command of SubZero.”

Juliette was shocked at that, and Alek couldn't really blame her. There really wasn't a precedent for one Club taking assets from another - unless you counted Archer's lying and theivery, of course. He'd be pissed too, but in the end, there wasn't much they could do about it. Even with the current conflict going on, the American branch was far stronger than Europe on the whole. And not that he didn't know it before, but he had to admire that Haleigh had balls enough to come right out and tell Juliette what she was doing. And with icewater in her veins.

Juliette was concerned - as she should be - about their access to Sub Zero, but Haleigh reassured her.

Haleigh: “You can continue to do so, my friend. And I’ll cut you into my share of the profit. It’s a done deal."

And you'll ensure that the London White Court needs you.

He had to wonder if the rest of them would be cut in on this deal.

Haleigh: "I understand you’ve made some business arrangements with the Red Queen?”

Juliette pushed that onto Liam, but Alek had seen the video: he knew what business Ashley and Juliette had had.

Haleigh: “You’ll encourage him to keep Alek in the loop, I hope?”

The corner of his mouth turned up slightly as Juliette sized him up. Having Haleigh advocate for him did much to assuage his nervousness at the topic of discussion.

Juliette: Eef you een-sist.

Haleigh: “I do. Alek.... is there anything else you would like from the European White Queen, while we have her here?”

"Mainly that we convince her to stay longer."

His half smile grew to a charming grin, which he turned on Juliette.

"Our courts have made great strides this weekend, and I hope that we can continue to work together. I know I can speak for Ashley when I say she was especially charmed by you and Liam, above all other of our visitors. We look forward to doing great things together. The Red Court of course bears no ill will to you or your king for the things Archer did, and please know that support goes both ways with us: should you need backing with the rest of the London club, you can depend on us. Those of us with....elevated priorities...must stick together."
 
The Red Queen’s Suite

Ashley had woken up in her favorite way: hungover, next to AJ.

The selfless soul that he was, AJ offered to help Ashley wash the shredded remnants of paint off from the Red Bacchanalia the night before. He might have had an ulterior motive.

But then again, to be fair, so did she. It was so relaxing to have him soaping her body, massaging her shoulders. Her mind went to the trip to his cabin they had planned, and the peace and quiet they would find there. But as it usually did, his hands on her body brought her mind to a different place, and she started moving his hands over her body suggestively.

AJ: “My Ashley.....”

The sound of her name on his lips turned all her switches to eleven, and when he slid forcefully inside her she gasped. She turned her head so she could see him, and a growl escaped involuntarily from her throat. She pressed her hips back against him, circling them, feeling their interlocked bodies moving as one.

"Arthur...my wolf..."

Her eyes closed, every cell in her body tingling, his movements bringing her closer and closer. Her breath was coming rapidly, and her arm raised so that her hand could loop behind his neck. The warmth rushed over her as she came, hotter than the shower water, his arms holding her in place as she spasmed.

"Don't stop..."
 
Liam: "Speaking of her, how is Heidi, really?"

Sometimes Cameron forgot how Heidi came to his doorstep. Initially, Cameron had been jealous. Heidi was still so enamored with Liam. It drove Cameron crazy. He had worked very hard in his relationship with Heidi. She adored him. She was loyal. She was his Knight. The remembrance that Heidi had a man she cared about greatly before him was a bit throttling. He was only now getting used to the idea of Jack.

"On my word, she is very well taken care of. As she will remain."

He had to admit, he found it a bit intimidating to speak with Liam, though he would never admit it. Cameron was a socialite of the highest pedigree, he ran in circles of immense prestige and power, but there was something about Liam that was a bit "old world". Cameron sometimes thought it was because of Juliette, and her fascinating immortal life. An alliance with the European White Court was something Cameron very much wanted, because he wanted to rule the world, and it seemed like Liam and Juliette were the kind of people who knew how to survive - could predict the future on pattern. It was enticing, but The White King felt them to be a bit above his comfort zone. You had to approach them differently than most - and Cameron preferred to tread shallow water.

Liam: "Well, be that as it may, I'm afraid she took it rather personally."

Cameron grimaced inside. He had intended to dazzle Juliette with his knowledge of history and politics, seduce her into an alliance, or at the very least a dalliance. Which only made him feel worse about things with him and Haleigh. He claimed to be monagomous at heart, but had in himself deep primal urges that yearned to be scratched. Perhaps he was a hypocrite, but he'd sooner die than be revealed as one. He inquired as to Liam's passions, hoping to hear something that gave hope the future world that Cameron saw in his mind.

Liam: "My passions? Nothing particularly original, I'll admit. Money, power, prestige. I will live a long time, I need to set myself up for that."

"A regular Leonidas I."

The White King smirked. He had enjoyed many a late night conversation wtih Zachary Armani, a well known history buff, on the wars, politics, and general insight of any number of country or Great World Power. It had paid off in spades whenever Cameron was able to work one of those stories in conversation to appear clever.

Liam: "Are you interested in getting off the aging, vulnerable electric infrastructure of this city and converting your home and business to clean nuclear power?"

[flatly] "Not just that. Gimme six months and I can have the entire city on your supply."

Liam: "As far as Hellfire, the organization, serves me exceedingly well, in that it provides me with numerous connections to the elite of society. I don't mind serving it in return; the more powerful Hellfire becomes, the more I do as well."

[taking another sip of his scotch.

"I'm glad to hear that. But I often wonder if my ambition reaches something that others might not be willing to walk with me in."

[sarcastically] "You know...ruling the world and all that. I feel as if Hellfire has been in the shadows for far too long. We are more powerful than any government or militia. And we allow the world to run as it does. I'm not saying we riot, but I'm saying we try and figure out if the reason we are as powerful as we are, is because we are hidden, or if we have the ability to truly seize what we deserve..."

The White King took a sip of his scotch. What was it about the third scotch of the day that tasted so good? He sat the empty glass on his desk, as his hands gripped the length of the desk on both sides, turning his face up to give Liam a sincere but intense glance.

"My intensity is fueled only by my desire to not waste any more time than we already have this weekend. I feel like the four of us could lead Hellfire to it's greatest heights, and I believe that we all could operate above our emotions, no matter the dynamic. That is...of course, if we want the same things..."
 
Hellfire -- The Red King’s Suite

Haleigh brought up Archer, but Juliette not surprised. She denounced her former friend, because doing anything else was foolish. She didn’t have to lie about the matter, and for the plausible deniability she was thankful. She wondered just how much Brienne knew.... and if Brienne had sacrificed her cavalier King in order to select a more agreeable one. It was the news of SubZero’s hostile takeover that gave her a shock. It was a bold move for the Americans, and more brazen still for Haleigh to announce it. So unflinching, unapologetic.

Une Machine Reine, dit-on....Et elle l'est.
[A Machine Queen, they say.... and so she is.]

She could have been upset, but she could not fault Haleigh for it. It was Archer who had put them in pillory. They were on the razor’s edge of grace. Juliette recovered enough to beseech; they relied on SubZero’s services. Haleigh assured her that she still could, with a smile that was almost threatening. Or was she imagining that? It was unsettling for her, to be on the defense, when she was so used to being the one with the power. Even Camille never challenged her, but this girl seemed to do so with aplomb. It was an exciting departure from the mundane exchanges she was accustomed to.

Haleigh raised the topic of arrangements with the Red Queen, but Juliette batted that down, calling it Liam’s thing, as if she were not involved. Haleigh accepted that, though her smirk seemed to cast silent doubt on Juliette’s assertion, as she ‘asked’ Juliette to encourage Liam to keep Alek abreast. Haleigh brought him into the conversation as if he were their equal, an interesting move. Some Queens would be curmudgeonly about that, but not Juliette. She understood Haleigh did nothing without calculation.

Juliette looked over at the American Red King, who sat on the arm of the sofa, the other side of Haleigh. He was unabashedly shirtless, his chest adorned by a massive scar that marked him as a warrior. He had an imposing size, and a suave smile. He was used to having his way, this man. Juliette agreed to Haleigh’s request, but only just. Best not roll over too easily for them. Alek mentioned convincing her to stay longer. Juliette gave him a sultry smile.

“I’m afraid I cannot grant you dzat, but mayhaps you’ll allow me dze pleasure of ‘osting you soon myself.”

Haleigh: We’ll have to arrange it. After the children are born, perhaps.

There was something hard and sharp under her smooth and friendly tone, steel beneath silk. Juliette’s gaze flickered over to see a steady stare from the American White Queen. We. Juliette’s smile curled with amusement. Oui. She recalled Haleigh’s willing consent to share her husband, who had been much more forward.

Alek was talking as if there were not a fencing match occurring under his nose, or perhaps he believed Haleigh had already won. Juliette’s gaze went back to him with interest, as he mentioned that Ashley had been especially charmed by her and Liam.

“As vere Ve by ‘er. Your Red Queen ees of great value to you, surely you are avare.”

She interjected slyly, and he continued on to say that he was looking forward to working together. And he extended her relief with regards to Archer’s actions. She nodded gently, long lashes fluttering shut briefly, and then she was watching him again, trying to gauge his sincerity when he offered support.

Alek: Those of us with...... elevated priorities..... must stick together.

“And so shall ve.”
 
Haleigh had announced their designs for SubZero, and covered for Ava’s play. She knew now was the best time to capitalize on their vulnerability, while tension was high and the rest of the Europeans just wanted to disassociate themselves with the defeated Ice King.

Onto the topic of their deal with Ashley, and though Juliette tried to say it was all Liam, Haleigh knew better. She made sure Juliette understood that Alek was not to be overlooked. She was pretty sure Ash would communicate with him, but she wanted the foreigners to know he wasn’t just someone’s consort.

She gave him a chance to make his own request, and he was his usual charming self. Juliette was a little too inviting in return. Haleigh tempered that a bit, not wanting to think of Juliette, with her lithe dancer’s body, welcoming Alek in Europe, while Haleigh herself was heavy with children. Juliette wisely accepted that, and then agreed with Alek that they should stick together.

“Now, there’s one more thing to talk about.”

Juliette: Zahk.

Haleigh’s gaze was stark for a moment, as she stopped to determine how Juliette might already know. Then she remembered the guest suite was right next to her Rook’s Chambers, and Vampires had enhanced hearing. She smiled again then, mystery solved. It saved her some exposition.

“You’ll see that he’s well received by the rest of your branch? He’s deserved a promotion for a long time, but I didn’t have a spare crown to give him. Brienne has clearly seen his worth already.”

Juliette: Vit dze vay ‘e and Breene ‘ave been talking, I doubt ‘e vill be sharing ‘is vort vit dze rest of us...

“No, but he’s more than that, you’ll see. And isn’t Europe short an empath now?”

Juliette: Vit Daniel leaving, yes. Very vell. Ve vill velcome ‘im.

“Excellent. I do appreciate you, Julie.”

She said, as a guard came in and lifted the case off the coffee table.

“This gentleman will load the case with the rest of your luggage. Would you like to stow that bottle, or enjoy it at breakfast?”

Haleigh asked, as she rose to her feet. Juliette stood as well, holding the one bottle close, almost possessively.

Juliette: ‘ow limited ees dzis supply?

“Well, that depends on the strength of our friendship, Julie. I’ll see you at breakfast.”

Haleigh smiled warmly as she walked the European White Queen to the door. After the door shut, she turned back to face Alek, a finger to her lips to ask for quiet. On the surveillance feed she watched the vampire queen walked down the Red Wing and cross over to the White Hall, and then finally she spoke.

“That takes care of a few loose ends.”
 
The Red King’s Suite

When Haleigh turned the conversation with Juliette over to him, Alek turned into the diplomat, fawning a bit as he expressed the wish that she stay longer.

Juliette: “I’m afraid I cannot grant you dzat, but mayhaps you’ll allow me dze pleasure of ‘osting you soon myself.”

"That would be lovely."

Haleigh: We’ll have to arrange it. After the children are born, perhaps.

He turned his head towards Haleigh and smiled, sparing a glance at her stomach - flat though it still was. He returned his attention to Juliette.

"I know Ashley is looking forward to a visit as well."

He would rather eat nails than take a trip with Ashley, but Liam and Juliette had taken a liking to her - an advantage he was going to play for all it was worth. He mentioned how charmed the Red Queen had been with them herself.

Juliette: “As vere Ve by ‘er. Your Red Queen ees of great value to you, surely you are avare.”

He smiled.

"Of course. When I made Ashley my queen I knew her strengths would complement mine. We may not be traditional, but our court always comes first. It is an arrangement that works well for us."

He made sure to make it known that he intended the alliance made between his court and the London White to be honored, and strengthened, if possible. He was not about to let the progress the Red Court had made over the weekend be stomped out at the last second. Liam and Juliette were the players in Europe, and should they decide to take their club for themselves, removing the weak links? Alek wanted a say in what came after.

And then Haleigh turned the conversation to Zach. As if this was some big important thing. The only value the prince of ponce brought to the New York club was his loyalty to Haleigh. He would be a puppet in London, king in name only. If Brienne didn't rip him to shreds first. There was no way he could handle a woman like her.

Haleigh: “You’ll see that he’s well received by the rest of your branch? He’s deserved a promotion for a long time, but I didn’t have a spare crown to give him. Brienne has clearly seen his worth already.”

Alek made an attempt not to scoff. Clearly he was the just next warm body after he had moved on to Haleigh.

Juliette: Vit dze vay ‘e and Breene ‘ave been talking, I doubt ‘e vill be sharing ‘is vort vit dze rest of us...

That's all he's worth.

Haleigh made sure Juliette wouldn't make Zach a midnight snack upon his arrival in London, and then said goodbye with a pointed comment about the depth of the blood supply available to Juliette. When she had gone, Haleigh turned towards him. Now maybe they could get back to what they'd been doing before they were interrupted.

He crossed the floor towards her as she held her finger to her lips, waiting for Juliette to be out of hearing before she spoke.

Haleigh: “That takes care of a few loose ends.”

"Like, not being outshone by the Red Court this weekend?"

He smiled playfully at her, his hands moving to the sides of her waist.

"Subzero...it's a ballsy move. Of course, I would expect no less. Do you think they will fight it?"
 
Hellfire -- The Red Queen’s Suite

They were supposed to be showering, washing off the remnant of the night before. But he couldn’t help himself now. The feel of her skin at his fingertips stirred his instincts, and the next thing he knew she was fitted in his arms and he was inside her. The sound she made and the way she moved egged him on.

He held her body tightly against his chest, kissing her neck as his moved his hips to her rhythm, stroking her sex with his fingers. She felt so good, he wanted to stay like this forever. He could die right now and not care. ‘Don’t stop’, she said, when her body started to shake.

“I wouldn’t if I could....”

He growled in her ear. He did pause, though. He turned her in his arms to face him, and pressed her back against the shower wall. His arms hooked under her legs as he began to thrust his hips faster, harder. His kiss found hers with the same aggression. His heart raced as the pressure built down below, and he groaned with pleasure.

“Mmm, my Ashley....”

He said again, his delighted eyes finding hers. He drove himself deeper now, his mouth on her breasts.
 
The Red Queen’s Shower

Somehow he managed to be primal and tender at the same time. The way his arms enveloped her gave her a sense of safety she had never known in her life, despite the fact that he was ravaging her. It was all encompassing: nothing else registered but him.

The way his voice came out in a growl turned her body up to eleven, and when he took charge and turned her to face him, she almost came from that gesture alone. It was the knowledge that she belonged to him completely, that she was his, and that he alone was worthy to be trusted with this.

He knew exactly where to touch her, his mouth on her body making her cry out as much as his hips. She lost herself completely in him, until they both came together and she collapsed against his body in exhaustion. Her arms were draped around his neck and shoulders, holding herself up. Her feet unsteadily touched the floor. She looked up at him and smiled, letting out a tiny laugh.

"I don't think I can stand yet."

The water washed over them, and she pressed her lips against his shoulder, and then to his lips. Finally she found her feet and her hand slid down his arm to take his.

"Let's go back to bed..."

And then she remembered the breakfast for the Europeans and swore loudly.

"We have to go to that breakfast. Shit!"

She shook her head in annoyance.

"Ughhhhh!"

She stomped her foot.

"I just want these people gone already."
 
The Great Hall

Calder was early, because the last thing he wanted to be was late. His military background made him prone to being on time in the first place, but he also wanted to make sure he made a good impression on his first full day as a member of the Inner Circle. Capital "I" capital "C". It was like being admitted to an exclusive club you never thought you'd be a part of, but always wanted to know what went on inside.

There weren't seat assignments like at the breakfast the day before, so he found an empty table and sat down. He still felt electricity running through him after his promotion, especially after his queen had acknowledged him personally, and he'd been accepted into the group lounging around, watching fighting, just as if he'd always been there. And they'd discussed the challenges the White King's former lover returning to the mansion would bring, without a hint of attempt to hide the information from him, the new guy. It was amazing, and he still felt like he was on a high from it. It was hard for him to stay in his seat, even.

He told himself to act casual when they others got there, but the butterflies in his stomach told him, "good luck with that". He wondered if he was allowed to have a beer this early in the morning. Or at all. At least if the day before had been any indication, the food was going to be the best he'd ever had.
 
Hellfire - The White King's Study

Cameron assured him that Heidi is well taken care of, ‘on his word’. Liam sipped his coffee as he considered that, and wondered if he could get Heidi alone for a moment to find out if it was true. Unfortunately with the contention between her and Juliette, Heidi had scarcely been around them.

Cameron noticeably allowed the subject of Juliette to drop, after finding out she was upset with him for standing her up. He must have been uncomfortable with it, but who wouldn’t be, when the whole club knew about the business with his wife?

Liam shared his ambitions, Cameron called him Leonidas I. It was an interesting comparison. One could only hope to inspire such loyalty that three hundred of one’s country men would stand alongside to the death.

“The glorious warrior king of Sparta! You flatter me.”

Liam asked about converting the mansion to nuclear power, not content to settle for just the Aqua Ring facility that Ashley had granted him, and Cameron promised the entire city in six months time. Quite a bold statement, Liam began to wonder if it could be delivered upon. In light of the weekend’s developments, with the way Cameron had seemingly betrayed his wedding vows, and of course flaking on the plans with Juliette, there was some doubt that Cameron’s words had weight. Liam gave a slight smile, despite his doubts.

“We could all stand to gain immensely from the success of such an endeavor. I’ll have some designs drawn up, and contracts written.”

He said, though he wouldn’t be putting all his eggs in that one basket. Cameron spoke of ruling the world, and wanting to explore if Hellfire’s power came from its secrecy. Liam finished off his coffee before he spoke again, relaxed despite Cameron’s intensity.

“Once you’ve reconciled with Juliette, you’ll be wise to get her talking about the French Revolution. She lived through it, you know. Survived it, I should say. She knows first hand what happens when the little people decide they don’t appreciate the ones with their hands on the levers of power. There’s much to be said for remaining in the shadows, and allowing figureheads to take the heat. Ruling the world, though.... that’s something we can all get behind.”

He rose to his feet then, setting his mug on the edge of the desk and extending a hand to shake.

“Much obliged for your time, Cameron. I look forward to the success of our alliance, and I’ll certainly be keeping in touch.”

He stopped himself from asking that Cameron give his wife his regards, recognizing that it might be a tender subject. Instead he offered another warm smile.
 
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