The Blackout Party

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Inner Circle Salon: Sidebar

Ava: Did you actually think I was going to let you do this alone?

"Ava."

She began, sounding like she'd try to reason with her, but Ava steamrolled on.

Ava: You're my sister. I don't give a damn who's daughter you are...Diana's...the fucking pope...it doesn't matter. Blood is just that, BLOOD. We're FAMILY. And you know I would die for you before I let anything happen to you.

"Yeah, that's the PROBLEM here."

She said, though she couldn't deny the comfort she derived from seeing Ava here, the reassurance in the simple gesture of Ava's hand on hers, and the boost she got from the idea that she wasn't going to have to watch her own back all night. But that was selfish of her, and while she didn't give a DAMN if she got herself killed, there was only ONE Ava in this timeline, and Haleigh didn't know anyone in the Hellfire club that could hop dimensions yet.

Ava: I know you're here to protect The Six--to protect ME. But I don't need protecting....and I'm sure as hell am not going to stand by and watch you get circled by these blood thirsty sharks.

"I told them all that so I could pretend to be the hero one last time, and convince them to go along with it. But come on Ava, you know I struggled to be the person they wanted me to be. Let's be honest for once. I'm the great white of blood thirsty sharks."

Then Ava hit Haleigh with something she wasn't expecting. Ava wasn't here to bring her BACK..... she was here to JOIN her. She was dead SET on it too.... Haleigh could see it in her eyes. Haleigh shook her head and sighed. In all her careful calculations, she'd never considered this. And yet.... she couldn't formulate a decent rebuttal. Ava was almost more suited to this than Haleigh was. Her father had been Stavros fucking Cassadine. Then there was the whole Persephone thing, with ties to the Greek God of the UNDERWORLD, and time spent with a group that ACTUALLY CALLED THEMSELVES the Masters of Evil. So instead of arguing, she just accepted it gratefully.

"Old and Grey, huh?"

She asked, referring to their childhood pact.

 

[Avalanche]

Hellfire Mansion - Guest From Across The Pond

"And they all lived happily ever after."

:: His slight cockney accent faded into the background of the many voices cheering this new incarnation of The Inner Circle. He had to hand it to the Americans, they certainly knew how to throw a party. It had barely been an hour and people were already shooting their wad all over the place, figuratively and literally. Archer Fairchild, Black King of The European Hellfire Club was here on a mixture of business and pleasure. His own life of crime was expanding to the point that it had now become an international crime syndicate, making money in whatever industry he could - drugs, weapons, intelligence, human trafficking, blood diamonds, you name it, he could get it for you. He had also procured an invitation at the request of Juliette De La Creaux, The White Queen of his branch as an effort to establish good faith and stronger diplomatic ties between the branches. Things were going very well overseas in the wake of their little rumble, and the European branch was expanding their influence in ways that previous incarnations had only dreamed of. Their coup d'etat had proved useful and working with Juliette was far easier than the likes of Rebecca Everhart, the former and very dead Red Queen. ::

"May she rest comfortably in Hell."

:: Smirking to himself, he grabbed hold of the antique cross necklace on his chest, unscrewing the bottom and dabbing a bit of white powder on the now detached miniature spoon. Snorting it up his nose discreetly, his pupils dilated for a second. Now he was ready to engage in the night's festivities. ::

"Well..maybe more. For good measure and all that piss."

:: Snorting once more, he secured his necklace and looked up at the balcony, a devilish grin curling up on his face at the sight of Heidi Scarborough, a woman he had murdered in London as a gesture of good faith towards Juliette. She had given him a run for his money, but she proved herself to be just like Camille, a drug addled, bored socialite who never thought to use her abilities for anything other than parlor tricks. She craved the attention that the hellfire club had given her and how flatscans marveled at her abilities. For whatever reason, the American branch had somehow ressurected her and given her a position with them. Perhaps they weren't as on the level as he thought. Anybody would think Heidi Scarborough was a good investment obviously had never been forced to have a conversation with her. ::

:: He also surveyed Maxine Dupont, who he actually still maintained a somewhat amicable relationship with, well, as amicable as one could be with Maxine. Archer didn't have tits, pouty lips or an ivy league education so he wasn't high on her priority list of people to bother, but she had told them that she would be checking in with them from time to time, and as a former member of The Black Court, she only trusted those under the black banner. She did look incredible, and Archer was fairly certain he had the same tuxedo jacket that she was wearing, which he wasn't sure was either a good thing, or a bad thing. As the lights went low, the party was in full effect and he found himself unsure of how to proceed. The Queens of the American Hellfire Club were bitches. If he were to go up there in this moment, before they were intoxicated, he was sure to be reminded of all the many ways he didn't add up to them, or whatever feminist girl power bullshit they had tricked themselves into believing in the moment. Still, he had promised Juliette he would make nice, and in an effort to show his Inner Circle, which was in transition itself that the courts could work along side one another, he would be just that..well, he would give it a shot. Just not now. ::

:: The heat emanating from the room bothered him as he casually and slowly dropped the temperature with his power, considering it a gift. Cold people sought out other cold people in order to generate warmth. That would lead to proper shagging and exposed nipples, which seemed par for the course for this type of event. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Heidi and a mysterious beauty make their way towards the Black Corridor which seemed like a perfect opportunity. ::

:: Many cybernetic creatures heralded his arrival into the room, greeting him by title and offering him any number of services up to and not excluding female companionship. He forewent the latter but did accept a drink. Yamazaki 50 year old - 3rd Edition Scotch, and much to his surprise, they had it. At nearly $120,000 a bottle, the very least he could do to support the american branch was drink copious amounts of their most expensive liquor. A cybernetic gnome produced his drink with great speed. ::

"You, little bloke, are an abomination of that I'm sure. But you're a bit...adorable. And quick. Monitor my drink and whenever you see it empty, I want you to refill it."

Gnome: "Command understood, adjusting guest protocol accordingly."

"Whatever."

:: He watched as the two women in the almost fish tank like VIP room converse with each other. He also took notice of the hot to trot brunette subtly stalking them. She looked a bit familiar, but he couldn't necessarily place it. Seemed like a good a time as any to do more cocaine. So he did. Rubbing his nose for a moment, he made his way up the stairs and casually listened in to the conversation transpiring. Archer was close to the brunette and he watched with wonder as she made herself known to the women. ::

Masque: "Addictions, huh? What's your pleasures? I can provide ALL your needs."

Fathom: "I highly doubt THAT."

Masque: "Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Guiletta Christina Nefaria. "Chrissy", for short."

:: Archer laughed to himself and rubbed his nose again. ::

"Well she's a regular damp squib, isn't she then? Easy on the eyes though."

Fathom: "Chrissy, how charming. Tonight's not the night for autographs, but it you come back with some handsome bachelors, we might let you sit."

:: She continued to talk with the beautiful gatsby-esque woman. Archer furrowed his brow. She was just as pompous and vapid as ever. He decided that she was enjoying her life across the pond a little too much, and he didn't like the way she treated a "fan." He stepped forward, making himself known. ::

"Did somebody say handsome bachelors? Well..from what I saw, Maxine Dupont seems to be a little tied up at the moment, so I guess I'll volunteer."

:: As he walked forward, he put his arm around Chrissy and smiled, before returning a knowing and shit eating grin towards Heidi and then towards Amanda. ::

"Don't listen to her, mate. She was no casual dabbler. The European White Court made up nearly a third of my profits when they were all together."

:: He turned to the young and beautiful woman he had his arm around. ::

"Archer Fairchild. Black King of Hellfire Europe. I know where I recognize you from. Your father. Old Bill always trying to keep Joe Bloggs down. Dreadful mess. Also...Chrissy? Not necessarily the right persona for a mafia princess. You introduce yourself as Chrissy and all people will do is spend the night looking for Jack and Janet. Might I suggest...Gia? Far more Bella Mafia. Give it a go."

:: Archer respected people who had made millions without going to college or setting foot in class. They had a grit and a true wit about them that nobody else had. He himself had come from the streets, and thanks to the help and foresight of his adopted father, he had soared to heights he never thought possible. He respected a girl in the game trying to make a name for herself. Just a bit of friendly advice. ::

:: He took a step forward his cockney accent a little more thick thanks to the drugs and expensive scotch. ::

"Heidi Scarborough...now the last time I saw YOU...I was murdering you by the River Thames, and now look at you. Sipping wohter at'a posh American Hellfire PAR-tee. I've gotta know. What NECRO-mansa did you blow in the afterlife so WELL that they wohnted to bring you BACK?!"

:: He looked over to the beautiful asian woman next to Heidi once again. ::

"And also..Hi there, hello. You're beautiful. I'm beautiful, we should have a right go of it later. Charmed i'm sure."

 

[Malice]

Hellfire Club- Blackout

:: The lights went down and the party was officially in full effect. Making her way towards the salon, Kelly refreshed her glass of hemlock, something she had ensured would be at the ready on every floor in and in every room should the mood strike her. She gave a small toast to the other queens as they all received their beverages, before the others arrived. ::

"Well ladies. Here's to us...May the lights not be the only thing that blacks out tonight!"

:: She downed her flute in one gulp and smirked, setting her glass down on a nearby table. ::

"Don't get me wrong...you all look beautiful..but the only faces I've seen in the last few months have been you two and the rest of the people making their way here now...well, outside of my caper in the Citadle, but hey you can't win them all. I'm going to go and socialize for a few moments, see if there is anything worth eating down there...and perhaps check out the food."

"Mmm, yes....I have a few morsels downstairs i'd like to nibble on myself. I'll see you ladies later."

Both Kelly and Helena departed from the salon and headed downstairs, separating amongst the crowd of people.

:: After a shared toast among the three Queens, Diana nodded and watched as Kelly and Helena departed to add their special touches to the party as it was now in full effect. She smirked a bit, knowing full WELL what HELENA would be getting into, and wondering if Kelly had FINALLY managed to pull the the stick out of her ass!::

:: She'd have her answer soon enough. Kristen came to her, wanting a side bar.::

Don't wander off, Ravena.

:: Diana said cooly::

There's a few people you'll need to meet before the REAL fun begins.

:: Diana wanted to have a conversation of her own as well, namely with Fathom, Emiko and Alice. Domino was already up to speed on Diana's "Craft omega" regarding Kelly AND Haleigh if necessary, and while Amanda showed PROMISE, she belonged to the Black Court...UNLESS...of course...she managed to make it known she might feel more "at home" on ANOTHER court! ::

::. But as usual, before the White Queen could "let go" and relax a bit, there were a few more matters to address.::

:: Kristen Pratt, she earned her keep VERY well, for a FLATSCAN. Diana had become impressed with the woman many years ago, back where it all began, in the ORIGINAL Arklay Mansion, when Jessica Marcus was just a little girl, and ALICE, while indeed a woman AHEAD of her time, super intelligent, and ground breaking, looked about as presentable as Sarah Jessica Parker during her "Square Pegs" era. This woman had sold her soul the night she began the cogs moving toward the destruction of the Kelly family. And now, here she was, all these years later, working OVERTIME, if for no other reason, to keep SIMON out of Diana's crosshairs.But Kristen didn't know that Diana had already had MORE than a "little" encounter with Simon, who was "READY FOR THE WORLD" at a tender young age ::

:: If Diana were to regard baseline humans as more than amoeba, Kristen might be a prime example of why. The woman was not simply smart, she was savvy, and she was able to deliver on her promises. She served as Diana's emissary to places and people where subtlety was the best weapon of choice, and so, in keeping Kristen close at hand, Diana proved once again that she had a reason for EACH individual she bestowed some measure of favor upon....and Kristen KNEW WELL what would happen if she ever outlived her usefulness. It was now a question of how long she could stay AWAY from THAT zone- the one that had claimed others like Christopher Victory, Adam Chandler, and Kelly King. ::

:: She pulled Diana to the side. ::

"Now, you know I never attend a party without bringing a gift for the host, and this one I think you'll like."

:: From her clutch she produced a tablet that was tapped into the security systems of the mansion. She was one of the only people not living in the mansion who had access to software like this. A camera view of the lunar ballroom appeared on the screen as Kristen zoomed in on the dancefloor as an arial view of Kelly Shaw could be seen dancing as a handsome man approached in the distance. ::

"I trust you remember the tragedy that was the short lived London branch of Mystech. Back during Christopher and Adam's extended trip across the pond?"

Of course. Everyone enjoys a nostalgic LAUGH.

:: Diana said coldly as she looked Kelly Shaw, dancing with that handsome young man. Certainly not SCRAWNY, like Cameron King USED to be.::

:: It was this trip where they first introduced the TO Virus to the European Hellfire Club, attempting to expand their influence before they were ready. Some of these efforst proved successful, as Maxine Dupont was living proof, but others, like London MysTech crashed and burned to the ground. ::

"I only framed that in the form of a question to be nice. Of course we all remember what a disaster that was. When Kelly Shaw came to this timeline, it caused me to wax a bit nostalgic for our history. I began to pour over mission files, historical documents...mostly for self preservation, but then I stumbled upon something. Agent Finn."

:: The camera zoomed in once more as the face of Gorgon became much clearer, his pale sapphire eyes locking with Talisman's. Kristen smirked as she continued to look at the two about to come into each other's orbit. ::

"Agent Finn was the point man on the London project. Adam and Christopher tasked him with recruiting and training prospective members, finding new assets, that sort of thing. He was a sad man. Heavy drinker...and when I say it, it was bad. Dead wife and son that he desperately wanted to be great. His son was Benjamin Lewis, though case files indicate that he operated under the codename Rogue. His first, last and only assignment was to recover a psionic succubus that had been discovered in Paris by the name of Cassandra Johnson. Yes...THAT Cassandra Johnson."

"He romanced the girl for quite some time. Unkowingly fell in love with her, yet still was able to try and bring her in as an asset. The mission file I was able to recover says that she tried to drain him, he survived, and both of them fell off the radar forever. Now...Agent Finn drank himself to death and shortly thereafter, everybody came to their senses and the London branch closed for good. Now I couldn't understand exactly why I kept thinking about Benjamin...until I stumbled upon this..."

:: Tapping on the screen, the camera zoomed close up on Benjamin's hand as he made his way through the crowd. It was a mysterious and beautiful onyx stone ring. ::

"The London branch of Mystech coincides with the days of Valiant and The Axis of Evil. At one point, Axis of Evil even resided at MysTech's headquarters. This led to interaction between Kelly King and Benjamin Lewis. We thought that The Axis would give a sense of purpose to Kelly...and for a time it did. In one of her only acts of usefulness during her tenure here, she crafted and charmed a ring for Ben that would protect him against Cassandra's ability to drain him, and it was what saved his life."

"Now, you know I don't enjoy loose ends, so I did a bit of digging and found similarities in intelligence briefs that matched Rogue's standard operating procedure. A few days later I found myself in Prague, face to face with Ben, who was now going under the codename Gorgon. He's done quite a bit of mercenary work over the years. Black market stuff, so he knows the ropes. He's also fairly easy on the eyes."

:: Shaking her head ::

"More to the point..you have been concerned about Talisman for quite some time. That her pure apathy might cause problems, and while it appears that she has dealt with some of those problems by consuming an unearthly amount of hemlock and baring an amount of skin that would make Kelly King proud, it's still something to keep an eye on. You've also had your eye on Ruby. In terms of finding dirt on her, we haven't come up with much. Talisman, as a master of science, also has expressed interest in learning more about Cassandra's origin. That's where Gorgon comes in. He's handsome and smart enough to intrigue The Black Queen and when she picks up on the energy signature of that ring he wears, well..she will definitely want to get to know him better. As for Benjamin, well...I have him convinced that it is up to him to complete the work that his father never did. He is also...foolishly still in love with Cassandra Johnson. He feels all at once compelled to prove himself and indebted to me..and by proxy YOU of this second chance he is being given. My gift to you tonight, and suitably so for a blackout party...is the perfect candidate for the Black Court."

[putting her tablet away and smirking]

:: Diana was amused, and pleased. She liked where this was going....::

"One who will fiercely serve The Black Queen...in more ways than one, and one who will work with us, should the need arise to deal with Talisman in a more...elevated manner. Now, of course, it would be no fun if I simply pulled some strings, talk to Kelly and recruit formally. No. She doesn't know of my actions. I thought it might be a little fun to watch it unfold organically...see how much Kelly truly has changed, what she might do, how she might react under a varying degree of circumstances.."

"All in all..I'd say it's one hell of a gift..Unless Helena or Kelly got you something as equally impressive?"

:: She took a sip of her drink. ::

"Didn't think so..."

:: She laughed. ::

:: Diana stared at Kristen with that cold, "eyes into your soul" look, one that Kristen had experienced many years ago, and worked HARD to never be on the FINAL end of::

DON'T get ahead of yourself, Mockingbird. Your VALUE to me remains TIED to what you can PRODUCE, and while you have been EXCELLENT with your production so far....FLATSCANS ALWAYS have a way of...FAILING...in mind AND body...EVENTUALLY.

Still, for now, you've proven your savvy and proactive talents have been very handy.

This little mutant will be ideal for Shaw, in more ways than one. AND, we can now lower the boom on that silly little psionic succubuss, Ruby.

Excellent work with Scion as well. No daughter of mine is going to look a common mortal. I will not have a white princess walking around here looking like a tumbleweed, as she was often wont to do among those messy children she played with in the Six.

See to it that she is further refined in her personal style and appearance, and if she refuses, have ALICE discipline her.

Now, I can tell you have a date...with the BAR, among other things. Every cell in your BODY is practically DYING of thirst. Go. indulge yourself in whatever...whomever...

:: Diana leans in close, letting her cold, EVIL aura wash over Kristen as she whispers in her ear.::

You've served me WELL yet again, and so you've EARNED yourself the most that this night can bring. I just hope your mind is as IMAGINATIVE and INVENTIVE in all things DEBAUCHERY as it is in other matters.

:: As she and Kristen part ways, Malice EYES Haleigh and Ava. Haleigh can FEEL Malice's stare for a few moments.::

MOTHER is WATCHING.

:: After a few moments, Malice directs her attention elsewhere, and reaches out telepathically to Heidi and Emiko.::

A word with you BOTH, my knight and rook. Find Alice, and ask her to join you in meeting me in the Portrait Hall. 10 minutes from now.

 

[Silver Swan]

Hellfire Mansion- Upper Salon

[ She evaded Domino's first attempt easily enough, but Sharon would find that Maxine was not so easily deterred.]

[ A short amount of time had passed, and Sharon was now making her way right over to Ava and Haleigh, with a look on her face that said it all.]

Ava.

[ She greeted the goddess in a calm manner. Ava being here was plausible, in much the same way as Sharon being here was. But...]

HALEIGH!?

[ Sharon said as she stood before the hybrid. She kept her voice "inside" but was able to make it stand above the buzz of the others present so Haleigh heard her "LOUD AND CLEAR"]

What the devil is going on here!?

[ There was no way to lie about it, Sharon was essentially a living polygraph.]

[One thing would be clear to Haleigh, Dominique had apparently kept her word, and not told anyone on the Birds of Prey what she learned about Haleigh.]

[ and now?]

::FLASH!::

[smirking]

"How did you enjoy the opening ceremony...see anything...surprising?"

How can you be doing this!?

Standing up there with Malice...and TALISMAN!? You know what that woman did to Karen, how she violated Frost!

 

[Domino]

Hellfire Mansion - Upper Salon

"You've got a lot of nerve, approaching me like this, Maxine."

:: Maxine laughed and moved closer on purpose. ::

"Oh I've got more than nerve, Silver Swan. Lots of toys you might find interesting."

Silver Swan: "You're in my WAY."

:: Domino did not move an inch. ::

"You'll find i'm not easily moved."

Silver Swan: "And if you don't move, I'll bend you up, fold you into a PRETZEL just now."

:: Leaning in ::

"Now you're talking my language. Such beautiful imagery."

:: Domino inquired about how Sharon felt about what she had just seen. ::

Silver Swan: "You mean beside your still being conscious and standing upright?"

:: Maxine shifted into a predatory glance, turned on by the moxy of Sharon Kelly. ::

"No I was actually referring to the fact that Haleigh Davidoff just pledged her allegiance to The Hellfire Club as Diana's White Princess..and.."

:: She looked over towards Ava and Haleigh who were having a sidebar away from many prying eyes, but not hidden enough from the likes of Domino. ::

"That it appears her sister is desperate to join the club as well."

:: Maxine moved closer, her blue pupils flashing red for a moment. ::

"All the while you've aligned yourself with well meaning upstarts. I'll give credit where it's due. You've got a lot of eye candy surrounding you...why I myself would love a ride on Alycia's dome...and whatever that crystal contraption she tried to beat me to a pulp with. And Vivica Lennox? Why if I had my way, she'd be here dancing for our guests...but all of it...really."

"It seems beneath you. I remember you in the Citadle, Sharon Kelly. You were comfortable. At ease. Even walking these halls, I can sense your peace with this place, despite what it's done to you. I know a lot about that...and I also know."

:: She was now standing side by side to Sharon. ::

"That there are options besides hero...for people like you. Why degrade yourself as if you are anything like your new teammates when it's clear you are something much bigger?"

"I'm not saying The Hellfire package is the best out there...but it looks like even some of your own have realized that glass ceiling that is The Six or The Birds of Prey. You can't just be here on a recon mission...and if you are..it's a gross under utilization of your power. I'd say you've more than paid your dues to be here, to sit at the table. To BREAK through that glass ceiling."

:: Domino took another swig from her flask. ::

"And if not...even though, I'm a very accommodating tour guide, you shouldn't chastise others for making that choice for themselves. That was a quip designed to keep you out of the cross hairs of Scion...she's no longer going by Black Widow. She made her bed and by my association with this place, I intend to make sure that she lies in it as comfortably as possible."

:: winking ::

"You'll have more fun with me anyway. Let them do what they will, because we both know you couldn't stop either of them if you tried."

:: She ignored this and made her way straight over towards them. Maxine followed. ::

Silver Swan: "What the devil is going on here? How can you be doing this!? Standing up there with Malice...and TALISMAN!? You know what that woman did to Karen, how she violated Frost."

:: Maxine looked at the three of them and then to Haleigh ::

"I'd be more than happy to escort her somewhere. Outside, my chambers...the catacombs. Anywhere really."

:: Haleigh did not know Maxine but Alice and Kristen had filled her in on her gaps of intel with regards to The Inner Circle. Maxine was a specific point of interest and it was mentioned that she was associated with the club though not bound by it's law, that she was incredibly strong and capable of horrible things. Her foray at the European Hellfire Club was mentioned as well. Maxine stood in way. ::

 

[Silver Swan]

Hellfire Mansion- Upper Salon

:: Maxine looked at the three of them and then to Haleigh ::

"I'd be more than happy to escort her somewhere. Outside, my chambers...the catacombs. Anywhere really."

:: Haleigh did not know Maxine but Alice and Kristen had filled her in on her gaps of intel with regards to The Inner Circle. Maxine was a specific point of interest and it was mentioned that she was associated with the club though not bound by it's law, that she was incredibly strong and capable of horrible things. Her foray at the European Hellfire Club was mentioned as well. Maxine stood in way. ::

[ Sharon looked over, DOWN at Maxine]

You have no authority to "escort" me ANYWHERE.

[ There she was, unintentionally proving at least ONE of Domino's points RIGHT, about her being oddly at peace being in this place. As she flexed the power of her lifetime membership, and her status as VIP.]

And if you TRY, You'll get a BEATING much like the one you got in the Citadle!

If you LIKE it rough, Domino, I can GIVE you ROUGH, in SPADES.

[ NOT an idle threat or boast, as Haleigh AND Ava both knew. Now Sharon's silver eyes were fixed back on Haleigh.]

So, are you going to tell me what the hell you're doing here, Haleigh? Or are you going to hide behind the HIRED HELP around here.

[ A not so subtle dig at Domino ]

[ Another thing that Domino pointed out, about AVA, was starting to register as well, given Ava's rather CALM demeanor at seeing Haleigh on that dais. Whatever had happened with Haleigh and the Six, Ava must known about it too.

 

[Wallflower]

Blackout Party - Black Corridor

:: Okay so maybe she wasn't recovering. Perhaps she was still an avid fan and who was Amanda to judge. Her days of addiction were long behind her thanks to Talisman. She was just simply checking to see if the vivid ideas she had of Heidi in her head were true or not, but before she could answer a mysterious woman approached them and pleasantly introduced herself. ::

Masque: "Addictions, huh? What's your pleasure? I can provide ALL your needs."

Fathom: "I highly doubt THAT."

"This is The HELLFIRE Club, dear. We can see a bathroom attendant and procure a supply that would make your operation's head spin."

Masque: "Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Giuletta Christina Nefaria. "Chrissy", for short."

Fathom: "Chrissy, how charming. Tonight's not the night for autographs, but if you come back with some handsome bachelors, we might let you sit."

"On Wednesdays, we wear pink."

:: The two continued on as if the girl had never been there. ::

Fathom: "What were we saying? Ah, yes...drinking and drugs. Well, you aren't TOO far off. I dabbled some, with pills and powder... but prescription fixes were always more Camille's thing. The street drugs made me boil...and alcohol just makes me so...DRY. But THIS..."

:: She produced a vial from her cleavage. ::

"This...is is my poison of choice. I'd offer, but it's quite fatal to most people. It's the venom of a sea wasp. Also, I've NO interest in 'recovering'. That's for quitters."

:: Amanda smirked as she grabbed her martini and took a sip, before setting it back down on the table. ::

"Venom? Now that's something I can get on board with.."

:: Opening her mouth, she smiled for a moment as her two front teeth morphed into fangs for what felt like a second as two beads of venom dripped from either side of her fangs before morphing back into normal molars. The two laughed for a moment. ::

Avalanche: "Did somebody say handsome bachelors? Well..from what I saw, Maxine Dupont seems to be a little tied up at the moment, so I guess I'll volunteer."

:: Archer Fairchild. Black Queen of Hellfire Europe. She knew of him. In fact, it was her that had coordinated his invitation to the Blackout Party. His connections were vast and he represented an opportunity to expand her own influence among The Inner Circle as well as promote relationships that could help her out down the road should she find herself in trouble. Every knight needed an army. ::

Avalanche: "Don't listen to her, mate. She was no casual dabbler. The European White Court made up nearly a third of my profits when they were all together."

"Then thank her for padding your pockets and be on your way."

:: He introduced himself to the woman who wanted to sit with them earlier and even gave her a pompous suggestion at a name change. While she agreed that nobody in their right mind would respect a woman who went by Chrissy, that was her choice to make and her life to live. She knew he would be arrogant, but she didn't necessarily expect this. ::

Avalanche: "Heidi Scarborough...now the last time I saw YOU...I was murdering you by the River Thames, and now look at you. Sipping wohter at'a posh American Hellfire PAR-tee. I've gotta know. What NECRO-mansa did you blow in the afterlife so WELL that they wohnted to bring you BACK?!"

:: He looked at her. ::

Avalanche: "And also..Hi there, hello. You're beautiful. I'm beautiful, we should have a right go of it later. Charmed i'm sure."

:: He was confident, that was for sure. But she could break him and get what she wanted. The only problem was his righteous dispatching of Heidi right in front of her. Heidi was a woman she wanted to create relationships with. She needed a way out. ::

"Cobra. Black Knight of Hellfire America...the important branch. I'm glad you are partaking in the festivities fully but..."

:: Her mutagenic physiology had made her nose INCREDIBLY good. ::

"You should know that you can get just a good of a buzz on far cheaper scotch. Perhaps as a gesture of good will, I should give you a tour of the mansion, or at least, keep you separated from Fathom. You'll find that she isn't the girl you once dealt with. I've seen her in action, and let's just say, I don't think your lucky streak would continue."

:: She rose from her chair. ::

"And nobody wants to clean blood from a ballgown. Heidi? We'll continue this chat later...and..."

[looking at Chrissy, Gia...whatever]

"You. Don't go around introducing yourself to everybody like they care. Just insert yourself, pretend that they should know who you are already...and you'll be fine. A bit of advice from The Black Court. Now...would you like to join us for the tour?"

:: Amanda didn't wait for her response as she locked arms with Archer and began to make her way out of the room. ::

 

[Masque]

Hellfire Mansion

"Chrissy, how charming. Tonight's not the night for autographs, but it you come back with some handsome bachelors, we might let you sit."

Then she completely disregarded her and went back to her conversation. Normally this exchange would piss Chrissy right off. But, see, it wouldn’t do to piss off the Inner Court when she tore the bitch’s head from her torso. Not if she wanted the White Bishop position. So she decided to just grin and bear it. She still stood there, with her arms folded and laughed.

“An AUTOGRAPH, from YOU? Please. Like THAT would be worth anything.”

She didn’t even bother to acknowledge the other woman’s comment about wearing pink. She cocked her eyebrow and smirked. Before anything could happen, a very handsome man appeared beside her…and draped his arm around her as if he owned her.

"Did somebody say handsome bachelors? Well..from what I saw, Maxine Dupont seems to be a little tied up at the moment, so I guess I'll volunteer."

:: As he walked forward, he put his arm around Chrissy and smiled, before returning a knowing and shit eating grin towards Heidi and then towards Amanda. ::

"Don't listen to her, mate. She was no casual dabbler. The European White Court made up nearly a third of my profits when they were all together."

Chrissy eyed him up and down. He was VERY handsome. Charming as sin, too. The night was looking up.

"Archer Fairchild. Black King of Hellfire Europe. I know where I recognize you from. Your father. Old Bill always trying to keep Joe Bloggs down. Dreadful mess. Also...Chrissy? Not necessarily the right persona for a mafia princess. You introduce yourself as Chrissy and all people will do is spend the night looking for Jack and Janet. Might I suggest...Gia? Far more Bella Mafia. Give it a go."

Chrissy stared at Archer. He had some nerve!

“Gia.”

Gia. She liked the sound of it. Chrissy was what her father had called her, but Archer was right. It just didn’t sound right anymore. She looked up at him and wrapped an arm around him.

“Good call…mate.”

He greeted the bitch by name. Heidi Scarborough. GIA made a note of it. It was her business to know the who, what, where, how, and whys of people. She plastered a smile on her face.

“Heidi. How LOVELY to meet you…”

Gia’s tone suggested anything but. She cocked her head a bit. So. The other was named Cobra. Or, rather, that was her codename. Just the name suggested someone not to be trifled with. Cobra got up and took Archer by the arm. Without looking back, she offered Gia an invite to go ‘on tour’ with them. As if she didn’t already know her way around this place. Please.

“Don’t mind if I do.”

Gia followed Cobra and Archer out, catching up to them. It would be far more interesting than roaming the halls by herself.

 

[Mockingbird]

Hellfire Mansion - Blackout Party - Upper Salon

Malice: "DON'T get ahead of yourself, Mockingbird. Your VALUE to me remains TIED to what you can PRODUCE, and while you have EXCELLENT with your production so far...FLATSCANS ALWAYS have a way of...FAILING...in mind AND body...EVENTUALLY."

:: Kristen smirked with mild amusement. ::

"She certainly has a revisionist view of history. Perhaps she forgot about the any number of over powered super threats I've watched perish with my own two eyes over the years..including HER. Yet *I* the flatscan remains."

Malice: "This little mutant will be ideal for Shaw, in more ways than one. AND, we can now lower the boom on that silly little psionic succubus, Ruby. Excellent work with Scion as well. No daughter of mine is going to look a common mortal. I will not have a white princess walking around here looking like a tumbleweed, as she was often wanting to do among those messy children she played with in the Six."

:: Mockingbird cocked a curious eyebrow. The Scion Project was beginning to worry her. Although she had known about it pretty much since it's inception, it never really seemed real until now. She knew Diana VERY well, perhaps even more than her would daughter and she knew that Diana was a woman who loved the long game. But Kristen always assumed Haleigh Davidoff to be Moby Dick - an entity that would eventually drive her mad, certainly something she would ever capture or tame. Haleigh's presence at The Hellfire Club made things complicated. It was a double edged sword for Kristen. As much as she had claimed to hate Malice over the years, she had a modicum of concern for the woman. Would having Haleigh this close to her, so within reach finally be the thing that drove Diana over the edge? It seemed like it. She was openly referring to Haleigh as her daughter and not just for some perverse dramatic effect. On the other hand, if Diana truly went mad, it would mean she would be free. Her family would be free and she could breath easily for the first time in a long time. ::

:: These thoughts came after Diana had just admonished her services as if she were still brand new and destined to fail. Kristen had kept this ship running flawlessly for over twenty years. Her value was immeasurable and she knew that Diana needed her. Diana would always need her, and Kristen had crafted that need over many years, many hours and many subtle moves. If there was anybody as good at the long game as Diana, it was Kristen. ::

Malice: "See to it that she is further refined in her personal style and appearance, and if she refused, have ALICE discipline her. Now, I can tell you have a date...with the BAR, among other things. Every cell in your BODY is practically dying of thirst. Go. indulge yourself in whatever...whomever.."

"Sure thing, Madame Malice."

Malice: "You've served me WELL yet again, and so you've EARNED yourself the most that this night can bring. I just hope your mind is as IMAGINATIVE and INVENTIVE in all things DEBAUCHERY as it is in other matters."

"I suppose Helena MIGHT need a wing woman. Enjoy the evening, White Queen. I'll be at the ready should you need me."

:: With that, she left the salon, taking quick note of the conversation happening between Haleigh and Ava. That was a surprising development, but not really. Kristen had been notified via comm link the second that Ava had arrived on the premises. She assumed it would be some half hearted attempt to get Haleigh go back, and if it was something else, she would deal with it when the time came. For now? She was going to enjoy herself. Her duties were done for the night, and she could go back to being a private citizen so to speak. A waiter appeared with a glass of her special wine. She grabbed the glass and gave a warm smile. ::

"I love you, you know that?"

:: The waiter smiled. ::

"Oh..I was talking to the wine, young one. I mean, you're not so bad yourself, I just don't know you that well. And I'm a married woman. Grab another glass and follow me down to the White Corridor, and let's make the next transition a little more fluid. Also.."

:: From her clutch she produced a napkin, and cleaned a spot from the waiter's shirt. ::

"This is The Hellfire Club, not an Arby's. Keep yourself clean, please.."

:: Kristen downed another drink and began to make her way down the stairs, wishing that at some point in her life, she could clean up and give guidance to her son the way she had just done to that waiter. She knew that day would probably never come. ::

 

[Fathom]

The Hellfire Club -- Black Court's Room

Amanda: Venom? Now that's something I can get on board with...

Cobra said, revealing fangs and venom of her own. Heidi gave a delighted laugh as she dropped the vial necklace back where it came from. The little girl she'd dismissed was still standing there, and she laughed as well, as if she had any right.

Chrissy: An AUTOGRAPH, from YOU? Please. Like THAT would be worth anything.

Heidi's once pleasant expression flipped to something altogether more chilling as she fixed her glare back on their uninvited guest. Her tone took a turn towards fatal.

"You must be as ignorant as you LOOK, Chrissy, and since you obviously need a CLUE how to act: You just disrespected the White Knight. Now run along before I crush you."

Archer: Did somebody say handsome bachelors? Well..from what I saw, Maxine Dupont seems to be a little tied up at the moment, so I guess I'll volunteer.

THIS bloody WANKER!

"No, I'm afraid you don't qualify, on account that nobody here wants to contract whatever STD you've got this week."

She replied dryly, taking another sip of her drink and letting the cool tingle of it distract her from the feral fury that was rising within her.

Archer: Don't listen to her, mate. She was no casual dabbler. The European White Court made up nearly a third of my profits when they were all together.

Amanda: Then thank her for padding your pockets and be on your way.

"You know, if you were making so MUCH from us, it's truly a WONDER you stabbed us all in the backs. It wasn't a very smart business decision.... but then.... you always WERE more beauty than brilliance, weren't you Archer?"

Archer made a show of introducing himself and showering them with his cheesy British charm. Heidi watched him with evident disdain, but at least her concoction was starting to take effect. She found she had more patience than usual. Interestingly, he spoke with Chrissy as if she were somebody he'd heard of.

A mafia princess, eh? Why didn't she LEAD with that? Some people just don't know how to MARKET themselves...

Archer: Heidi Scarborough...now the last time I saw YOU...I was murdering you by the River Thames, and now look at you. Sipping wohter at'a posh American Hellfire PAR-tee. I've gotta know. What NECRO-mansa did you blow in the afterlife so WELL that they wohnted to bring you BACK?!

"Believe it or NOT, we don't ALL have to whore ourselves out to get ahead. Some of us survive on our MERITS."

Amanda: You should know that you can get just a good of a buzz on far cheaper scotch. Perhaps as a gesture of good will, I should give you a tour of the mansion, or at least, keep you separated from Fathom. You'll find that she isn't the girl you once dealt with. I've seen her in action, and let's just say, I don't think your lucky streak would continue.

"A fair warning, Amanda, but you waste your efforts on the likes of HIM. If Frosty the Snowman wants another go at me, I'd be HAPPY to melt him down, and give new meaning to 'a tall glass of water'."

Malice: A word with you BOTH, my knight and rook. Find Alice, and ask her to join you in meeting me in the Portrait Hall. 10 minutes from now.

Saved by the summons! She'd seen enough of Archer Fairchild to last two lifetimes.

Amanda: Heidi? We'll continue this chat later...

Chrissy: Heidi. How LOVELY to meet you…

"I'd say the same, but I don't want to contribute to your delusions."

Heidi rose from her seat as the others went off to take a tour of the club. She began to make her way towards Diana, stopping only to delegate directions to a guardsman.

"Find Dr. Prospero. Her presence is required AT ONCE in the Portrait Room. It's the White Queen's command, so don't get yourself killed by dilly-dallying."

 

[Nogitsune]

The Hellfire Mansion – Balcony to Portrait Hall

"Emiko, I appreciate the heads up. Do you like sushi?

She tilted her head to one side inquisitively.

“Do you have some?”

”Because if the little mermaid points her pot-stirrer at me again, I'll make FUTOMAKI out of her. I bet you have some good Sake to go with...."

She thought for a minute.

“It’s the Emperor’s , actually. Who told you I took it?”

Haleigh stopped talking to her once the announcements began. Emiko passed the time by devising new and inventive ways she could torture each of the guests she saw below her. Toaster and Lord Crow got some sparkly new hats, which Emi thought she might try on later, and then the lights went out and people started to disperse. FINALLY. Now she could really have some fun.

She had cornered a relatively young male who really thought he was something special, with the clothes and the personal trainers and the expensive watch. Quite literally cornered, as she stood blocking his path. But he wasn’t seeing her. He was seeing his own body covered in maggots, while a large man with a large knife and wearing only a hood and leather pants slowly cut open various sections of his body and began digging around inside – and occasionally pulling something out.

She was trying it out, to see if she wanted to do it for real later.

The man was deliciously screaming when she got the call from Malice.

A word with you BOTH, my knight and rook. Find Alice, and ask her to join you in meeting me in the Portrait Hall. 10 minutes from now.

She sighed. Whatever Miss M wanted.

She turned and left the man standing there screaming. As she passed a crowd of squawking hens, she casually leaned in to whisper in the one closest to her’s ear: “You know, there are TO virus infected all through the crowd.”

Emi chuckled as she felt the woman’s hysteria spread from person to person.

Making her way to the Portrait Hall, Emi plopped herself down onto a bench and sat crossed legged upon it, and waited.

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Inner Circle Salon: Sidebar

Malice: MOTHER is WATCHING.

Haleigh felt the cold, bitter burn of a brain freeze, and turned to immediately find Diana staring at her. This was precisely why she hadn't tried to sneak off to speak with Ava. She knew there would be no privacy in this place.

AND?

She thought back cooly, before looking back at her sister with aplomb.

"I hope you're in it for the long haul, because I don't think EITHER of us will be 'old' or 'grey' for quite some time."

She reclined in her chair, one forearm resting on the cocktail table, as a server came by and offered to get them whatever they wanted. Haleigh shrugged him off and Ava ordered hemlock.

"Sharon's coming up here, be prepared to get the third degree."

It was only a few seconds later that Sharon reached them, greeting Ava somewhat normally but saying Haleigh's name with such vigor that it gave the hybrid a little jolt from the volume. Haleigh forced a polite smile, and glanced at the woman who'd followed Sharon up here. They hadn't officially met, but Haleigh had learned all there was on record for Domino the moment Alice had mentioned the name 'Maxine Dupont'. Haleigh was rather interested in conversing with her fellow biohazard, but for the moment, she had to deal with Sharon.

Sharon: What the devil is going on here!?

"I think the opening ceremony made it fairly obvious, but maybe you were late?"

Sharon: How can you be doing this!? Standing up there with Malice...and TALISMAN!? You know what that woman did to Karen, how she violated Frost.

"Yes, I know. I also know she's Alison and Cameron 'mother', or at least she's some cross-time alternate of her."

Maxine: I'd be more than happy to escort her somewhere. Outside, my chambers...the catacombs. Anywhere really.

Sharon: You have no authority to "escort" me ANYWHERE. And if you TRY, You'll get a BEATING much like the one you got in the Citadle! If you LIKE it rough, Domino, I can GIVE you ROUGH, in SPADES.

"Actually, she has the authority bestowed by the White Princess, if it comes down to THAT. But why antagonize each other? There are enemies enough for ALL of us, and tonight is about us all 'coming' together."

Sharon: So, are you going to tell me what the hell you're doing here, Haleigh? Or are you going to hide behind the HIRED HELP around here.

Dominique must have kept her word, and the secret of Haleigh's parentage. But the secret was out now, and there was no sense in shying away from it.

"While I certainly don't answer to YOU, Silver Swan, I imagine you'll find out soon enough and I'm not HIDING by any means. I left the Six to join my mother, the White Queen. I wouldn't think you'd be so shocked.... what was it you once said? 'I'm only as powerful as I am because of THEM.' Referring to Mystech, of course. Only, nobody knew at the time just how accurate that assessment WAS. It's time I acknowledge my origins, and return to those I REALLY belong with. You might consider doing the same, Silver Swan. You're more like US now than you are like the Birds of Prey."

 

[Persephone]

She had expected Haleigh to fight her on this. In fact, Ava had prepared a whole rebuttal about how she belonged here more than the six due to her past, and that Haleigh would have to kick her out herself if she wanted Ava to leave. But Haleigh just looked at her, in a way that said she understood. That she got it.

Haleigh: "Old and Grey, huh?"

And she did get it. Ava smiled at her words--their pact.

"Always."

Haleigh: "I hope you're in it for the long haul, because I don't think EITHER of us will be 'old' or 'grey' for quite some time."

"I wouldn't be here if I wasn't."

Ava ordered a glass of hemlock, taking a long deserved sip of it and savoring it.

Haleigh: "Sharon's coming up here, be prepared to get the third degree."

"YOU be prepare....i'm just the innocent Cassadine with membership access, you know."

Ava quipped with an amused smirk as Haleigh rolled her eyes. She knew eventually their conversation would be interrupted....they were in a pretty shitty 'private' spot. Not that anything in the Hellfire Club was private. Sharon Kelly came walking over with another woman, who was very beautiful and androgynous.

Sharon: "Ava."

Nodding to Sharon, she had access like Ava to the Hellfire Club because of her familial ties. But WHY Sharon kept coming to these events always perplexed Ava. For someone who claimed to HATE MysTech so much surely came to their staple club a lot. But Ava assumed it was for recon.....although in reality, the goddess truly believed it was because Sharon felt more a 'home' here than anywhere else. Sharon had a darkness to her that she struggled with as well. It was a strange sensation the moment someone walked through the Hellfire Club doors....it was like all judgement was GONE and a person could truly be who they were. Well...when they weren't being hunted by the big bad White Queen of the Upper Eastside.

Sharon: "HALEIGH!"

"Sharon, calm do--"

And it was too late, Sharon was already laying into Haleigh asking how she could do this, why she was here, what about Karen. At this point Ava finished her Hemlock.

Maxine: "I'd be more than happy to escort her somewhere. Outside, my chambers...the catacombs. Anywhere really."

"I vote chambers."

Sharon gives Ava a what the hell look.

"What? With your male track record, I think a dip in the estrogen pool would be a nice change. [deadpan] Trust me, I can relate."

Obviously Sharon didn't find that funny, who went straight back to interrogating Haleigh. Knowing her sister could handle herself, Ava moved a couple feet away from the trio of women and gazed out the window which overlooked the crowd of people below. She didn't see any of the queens, but she knew it would only be a matter of time before she was confronted by Diana and the real show would begin.

"Tick tock."

She whispered to herself.

Tick tick INDEED.

Ava's eyes went dark, hearing the familiar voice echo in her head. It was almost a trigger....but Ava remained calm despite herself. A waiter quietly came up to her in that moment asking her if she'd like another drink. Stone faced, Ava kept her eyes forward, looking at the crowd.

"Another hemlock, and keep them coming."

 

[Silver Swan]

Hellfire Mansion- Upper Salon

"Actually, she has the authority bestowed by the White Princess, if it comes down to THAT. But why antagonize each other? There are enemies enough for ALL of us, and tonight is about us all 'coming' together."

[ Sharon's mouth opened in disbelief, and her lower jaw was jutted out, highlighting the look of agitation on her face.]

Don't let this moment you're in....this... [gesturing at Haleigh's overall appearence] this game of "DRESS UP" you're playing...go to your HEAD.

Only a FOOL would THROW AWAY her identity and surrender to the very MONSTER that has blighted her path.

Your "authority" does not extend over ME, Haleigh. Per the bylaws, the ONLY individual who can EXPEL a VIP member of the Hellfire Club, is a member of the Lord's Cardinal, which you are NOT. So you keep this....[ Looking at Domino for a moment and then to Haleigh]...BAD ACTOR on a short leash...or I'll RUN HER OVER.

And if THIS is the game you want to play now, I can do the same to YOU.

[ And Sharon MEANT that.]

"I vote chambers."

Sharon gives Ava a what the hell look.

"What? With your male track record, I think a dip in the estrogen pool would be a nice change. [deadpan] Trust me, I can relate."

[ Sharon looked at Ava for a moment, and rolled her silver eyes. The goddess knew her attempt at "lightening the mood" had failed, but she remained undaunted]

Obviously Sharon didn't find that funny, who went straight back to interrogating Haleigh. Knowing her sister could handle herself, Ava moved a couple feet away from the trio of women and gazed out the window which overlooked the crowd of people below. She didn't see any of the queens, but she knew it would only be a matter of time before she was confronted by Diana and the real show would begin.

[ Returning her unwavering gaze to Haleigh]

I don't know what's happened, But I WILL find out.

And no matter what...if YOU hurt any of MY friends in your new role...I'll drag you out of here by your hair myself, and beat you to a PULP.

[ Sharon turns and SHOVES Domino out of the way, storming past Persephone and other members in attendance]

DON'T THINK I CAN'T DO IT!

[ Her parting words to Haleigh, and unlike most OTHER people who might threaten the Hybrid, Sharon was one of the few who COULD make good on her threat.]

[ Sharon needed space, she needed to cool down. Between Maxine, and now Haleigh AND Ava's words...Sharon found herself feeling...."some kind of way!" But NO...she would NOT take the easy way out. She was an AMAZON, not some MINION of MALICE. How could Haleigh even ALLOW herself to become this..."WHITE PRINCESS!?" How could she ABANDON her friends...her Six FAMILY!? Sharon's mind immediately wente to Zach, Dominique, any individual that she knew she could talk to to get some answers.]

[ But the night was young...and Sharon's time here was not finished yet.]

[ At the moment, She was now in Highdark Hall, one of the now DARKEST areas of the mansion, where the Black Diamond suites VIP members were located. Several double doors to various suites were closed and locked, with "god only knows what" going on inside. Sharon exhaled loudly, she was able to hear EVERYTHING. Some of it was predictable, others were rather stomach turning, even for HER. But no matter what...she just needed space, to calm down, before she took Haleigh and Maxine's heads and KNOCKED THEM TOGETHER.]

This is OUTRAGEOUS!

[ She bellowed to no one in particular, as she stood for a moment, before finally moving toward the french doors that opened to the outdoor balcony of her VIP Black Diamond suite. The breeze began to blow her blonde hair back a bit as she centered herself.]

I....I've got to calm down. I've got to find out MORE before I go back to the others....

 

[Domino]

The Hellfire Club - Balcony

Sharon: "You have no authority to "escort" me ANYWHERE. And if you TRY, You'll get a BEATING much like the one you got in the Citadle! If you LIKE it rough, Domino, I can GIVE you ROUGH, in SPADES."

Haleigh: "Actually, she has the authority bestowed by the White Princess, if it comes down to THAT. But why antagonize each other? There are enemies enough for ALL of us, and tonight is about us all 'coming' together."

Sharon: Don't let this moment you're in....this... [gesturing at Haleigh's overall appearence] this game of "DRESS UP" you're playing...go to your HEAD. Only a FOOL would THROW AWAY her identity and surrender to the very MONSTER that has blighted her path.Your "authority" does not extend over ME, Haleigh. Per the bylaws, the ONLY individual who can EXPEL a VIP member of the Hellfire Club, is a member of the Lord's Cardinal, which you are NOT. So you keep this...BAD ACTOR on a short leash...or I'll RUN HER OVER."

"Just because we can't revoke your membership card doesn't mean I can't bounce you out of here on your ass. And as for the leash, I'm not much into puppy play. I would however, like to see you try and run me over, if only to show you your own ass...fantastic as it is."

:: The two of them wasted no time flopping their dicks on the table to see who's was the biggest but they were both wrong. Maxine didn't believe in authority. She believed in chaos and darwinism. She would do whatever the hell she wanted, whenever the hell she wanted for the reasons she wanted. And if she caught herself at the long end of somebody else's blade then so be it, but she certainly wasn't going to go out answering to anybody. Not Silver Swan, not The White Princess, not even Malice should it come right down to that. If Sharon stepped too far out of line, she would be dealt with accordingly. No matter how nice her ass was. ::

:: Looking at Ava ::

"I swear, it's like they are both TRYING to turn me on."

Sharon: "So, are you going to tell me what the hell you're doing here, Haleigh? Or are you going to hide behind the HIRED HELP around here."

"Blaming a girl for going out and getting herself comprehensive dental and medical benefits? Shame on you!"

:: Big talk coming from a dead to the world homeless woman living out of an abandoned clocktower with some bright eyed female Franklin D. Roosevelt. ::

:: She smirked. ::

Haleigh: "While I certainly don't answer to YOU, Silver Swan, I imagine you'll find out soon enough and I'm not HIDING by any means. I left the Six to join my mother, the White Queen. I wouldn't think you'd be so shocked.... what was it you once said? 'I'm only as powerful as I am because of THEM.' Referring to Mystech, of course. Only, nobody knew at the time just how accurate that assessment WAS. It's time I acknowledge my origins, and return to those I REALLY belong with. You might consider doing the same, Silver Swan. You're more like US now than you are like the Birds of Prey."

:: Ava and Haleigh made quips back and forth with each other at the expense of Sharon which amused Maxine greatly. She shook her head. ::

"Well damn..if they turn this quickly on their friends...I can't wait to see what they do to their enemies!"

:: It was clear that Sharon was reaching a level of aggression that could manifest physically at any moment, and Maxine was very interested in watching that unfold. ::

Sharon: "I don't know what's happened, But I WILL find out. And no matter what...if YOU hurt any of MY friends in your new role...I'll drag you out of here by your hair myself, and beat you to a PULP."

:: Sharon made a grand gesture by knocking Domino out of the way. Maxine could dodge a bullet at point blank range, she certainly could have avoided Silver Swan. Instead, she went a more dramatic route, falling to the floor and grabbing my arm. ::

"Oh heavens! I've been taken down! Please! Somebody help me!"

:: Maxine began to laugh loudly as she rose to her feet. Sharon screamed out behind her. :

Sharon: "DON'T THINK I CAN'T DO IT!"

"Bye Sharon! I'll see you later mon petite!"

:: Exhaling deeply, she looked at Ava and Haleigh, taking a swig from her flask. ::

"Well...I don't know about the two of you but..I'm fully aroused. I think it's time to burn off a bit of this heat. Enjoy being sisters in sin. If you need anything...call somebody else first. Well..okay perhaps you can text me. Au revoir!"

:: Domino dissappeared down the stairs and into the main party. ::

 

[Avalanche]

Hellfire Mansion - Black Corridor - Blackout Party

Heidi: "You know, if you were making so MUCH from us, it's truly a WONDER you stabbed us all in the backs. It wasn't a very smart business decision...but then...you always WERE more beauty than brilliance, weren't you Archer?"

:: Archer laughed loudly, sniffling his nose a bit. ::

"Oh poor LIT-tle BITCH girl. And what BUSINESS have you ever done love? Besides scurrying under the whitest most powerful pair of knickers in your general vicinity. There's a reason you weren't asked to be a part of the rebellion, HYDRA."

Heidi: "Believe it or NOT, we don't ALL have to whore ourselves out to get ahead. Some of us survive on our MERITS."

:: drinking his scotch. ::

"That's just it, in-it? You didn't survive. Somebody brought you back. Probably the same pervert who made all these sex gnomes running around. Is that it, Heidi? Are you now a sexbot?"

Amanda: "You should know that you can get just a good of a buzz on far cheaper scotch. Perhaps as a gesture of good will, I should give you a tour of the mansion, or at least, keep you separated from Fathom. You'll find that she isn't the girl you once delt with. I've seen her in action, and let's just say, I don't think your lucky streak would continue."

Heidi: "A fair warning, Amanda, but you waste your efforts on the likes of HIM. If Frosty the Snowman wants another go at me, I'd be HAPPY to melt him down, and give new meaning to a 'tall glass of water.'"

"Blah blah blah. Good to see you Hydra. Hope Malice pulls an URSULA on you."

:: Amanda bid Heidi adieu and invited Gia along on their tour of the mansion. He had been here a million times, but he figured that he would humor the girl. She was hot, Gia was hot..and there were far worse things than touring the dark halls during a dark sexy mansion party with two beautiful woman. Like continuing to speak to Heidi Scarborough for instance. ::

"I'm all yours, love!"

[turning to Gia]

"And of course yours too!"

:: Winking. ::

"I'll catch up in just a second..I need to refill this VERY EXPENSIVE SCOTCH!"

:: As Amanda and Gia went forward ahead of him, Archer made sure to refill his glass and do another bump. Things were certainly interesting here at Hellfire American and Archer had a feeling that things were about to get alot more interesting. ::

"Heidi Scarborough...alive and feisty. You can't make that shit up!"

 

[Malice]

Hellfire Mansion- Portrait Hall

Heidi rose from her seat as the others went off to take a tour of the club. She began to make her way towards Diana, stopping only to delegate directions to a guardsman.

"Find Dr. Prospero. Her presence is required AT ONCE in the Portrait Room. It's the White Queen's command, so don't get yourself killed by dilly-dallying."

She sighed. Whatever Miss M wanted.

She turned and left the man standing there screaming. As she passed a crowd of squawking hens, she casually leaned in to whisper in the one closest to her’s ear: “You know, there are TO virus infected all through the crowd.”

Emi chuckled as she felt the woman’s hysteria spread from person to person.

Making her way to the Portrait Hall, Emi plopped herself down onto a bench and sat crossed legged upon it, and waited.

:: Malice was waiting.::

<< A rushing sound was heard, and a glowing image trail heralds the arrival of Alice, a.k.a. Dr. Prospero.>>

Good. you're all here.

I'll make this short and sweet.

Alice, I sense your trepidation regarding Haleigh. Yours as well, Heidi.

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

I want you three to keep a CLOSE EYE on our newly crowned White Princess. The arrival of Ava Cassadine is amusing, and not all that unexpected. But we're not merely dealing with Stavros Cassadine's daughter.

:: Malice was fully aware of the changes that she went through when she passed through the siege perilous. ::

And if Haleigh thinks that we're playing dress up tonight...or ANY OTHER NIGHT...she's sadly mistaken.

TONIGHT is play time. TOMORROW is a whole other story, and I'll SEE if she's TRULY surrendered herself to the White Court.

...and to ME.

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

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

I will not tolerate this SLOPPY presentation.

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

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

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Inner Circle Salon: Sidebar

Sharon: Don't let this moment you're in....this... [gesturing at Haleigh's overall appearence] this game of "DRESS UP" you're playing...go to your HEAD. Only a FOOL would THROW AWAY her identity and surrender to the very MONSTER that has blighted her path.

"I MUST be a fool then, by your standards."

Sharon: Your "authority" does not extend over ME, Haleigh. Per the bylaws, the ONLY individual who can EXPEL a VIP member of the Hellfire Club, is a member of the Lord's Cardinal, which you are NOT. So you keep this....[ Looking at Domino for a moment and then to Haleigh]...BAD ACTOR on a short leash...or I'll RUN HER OVER.

"OH..... I did not realize..... it would be a violation of the BYLAWS. WELL..... in that case....."

She started, but could only keep a straight face for so long before she descended into laughter that was quite obviously disturbed. She didn't give a DAMN about 'bylaws' or 'regulations' or whatever rules might or might not apply here. She was TIRED of being bound by the rules, and resolved to ignore as many of them as possible. Ava made a quip about Sharon needing to be taken to Maxine's chambers, which served to set off another fit of hysterics. She clutched her abs and leaned forward in her chair, her shoulders shuddering with laughter.

Maxine: Just because we can't revoke your membership card doesn't mean I can't bounce you out of here on your ass. And as for the leash, I'm not much into puppy play. I would however, like to see you try and run me over, if only to show you your own ass...fantastic as it is.

"DAMN, the balls on this babe, am I right?"

Haleigh commented, having composed herself again enough to talk. She was quite interested in seeing Domino and the Silver Swan go toe-to-toe. There were so FEW who could stand up to Sharon, and Haleigh herself was one of them. It'd be enlightening to watch someone ELSE knuckle up, and give Haleigh a chance to observe and make note of Sharon's fighting habits.... just in case she needed that intel in the future, which seemed likely given how tightly wound Sharon was here.

Sharon: And if THIS is the game you want to play now, I can do the same to YOU. I don't know what's happened, But I WILL find out. And no matter what...if YOU hurt any of MY friends in your new role...I'll drag you out of here by your hair myself, and beat you to a PULP.

"Hey, whenever you wanna brawl, Birdie, you know where to find me."

Sharon made a big show out of shoving Maxine out of the way, and Maxine played along, much to Haleigh's amusement. If there was even a subconscious thought on Haleigh's part that leaned towards smoothing things over with Sharon, it didn't show. Ava had called the situation correctly. They were surrounded by bloodthirsty sharks, and now, it was SINK OR SWIM.

Sharon: DON'T THINK I CAN'T DO IT!

Maxine: Bye Sharon! I'll see you later mon petite!

Haleigh watched Sharon storm off, and shrugged when Maxine looked at her. Domino mentioned being turned on, and bid them goodbye in search of an easy lay. Ava ordered bottomless hemlock and gazed out over the balcony. Haleigh glanced around the Salon once more. Malice was gone, but the White King was still here, extracting himself from a conversation with some sycophant or another. She wanted to get better acquainted with HIM, but would wait for a good opportunity. For now, she looked back over her sister, who was still just a few feet away, with her back turned.

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

 

[Goliath]

Hellfire Mansion - Lunar Ballroom

Talisman: "The fact that you heard rumblings tells me that somebody in this mansion is not doing their job. Or that you just made that up in order to foster a sense of community with me. By the ring on your finger, I am ware you must know who I am...or who I was the last time you saw my face, so what's this all about Benjamin Lewis? What's your angle? And before you answer, I must urger you to choose your words carefully. I've already dealt with one quick witted loud mouth tonight and I'm not in the mood to deal with another one."

"Well this is going well."

:: She moved the slit of her beautiful dress to reveal a very delectable looking thigh in a black lace garter with a mysterious looking gun attached on the top. She smirked at him with a bit of an intimidating smirk. ::

Talisman: "Or maybe I am in the mood. Shooting somebody in the head at point blank range in the middle of a dance floor at the biggest party of the year? That would certainly buy me a bit of intrigue, wouldn't it?"

:: Ben eyed the woman up and down for a moment. It was clear that she was definitely feeling her oats in the moment, but it was also clear that she was not the Kelly that he was used to dealing with. She was much smarter, much more put together, though he couldn't tell just yet if she was any less insane. He began to doubt himself and the alcohol didn't help. What was he doing here? Why was he attempting to return to the place that had destroyed his life before. As if Cassandra could ever love him again, trust him after what he had done. More than that, these people had destroyed his father. He was a puritanical asshole who wanted more than anything to prove to his ex wife that he wasn't a loser, that he could be a titan of industry. The problem was that he simply wasn't. He was a malleable man who had been easily manipulated by Adam Chandler and Christopher Victory because they wanted Benjamin. He was a pawn and he had been too stupid to realize it. This was part of the reason he had felt a connection to Kelly King so many years ago. She was a lot like his father. Determined to be something great and realizing that their value had nothing to do with them, and everything to do with their children. How could he work with these people and trust them not to do the same to him? ::

:: He decided in this moment that a bit of honesty was required. ::

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

Talisman: "Go on."

:: She let go of the train of her dressed and folded her arms, her flute of hemlock in her left hand, sipping and watching him with abject curiousity. ::

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

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

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

:: Ben watched as Talisman cocked a concerned eyebrow. He didn't know what she would think of the story, what would happen to him after, but he had the feeling that above all else, Kelly would appreciate honesty and it might give him a precious few seconds to get out of here unharmed. ::

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

:: Smirking. ::

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

:: Taking another sip. ::

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

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

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

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

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

:: Benjamin took a deep breath, forgot about Cassandra, Malice, Kristen, Mystech all of it. It was time to just BE. ::

:: He grabbed Kelly by the waist and kissed her passionately. ::

 

[Viper]

Hellfire Mansion- Upper Salon

"Tick tock."

She whispered to herself.

Tick tick INDEED.

Ava's eyes went dark, hearing the familiar voice echo in her head. It was almost a trigger....but Ava remained calm despite herself. A waiter quietly came up to her in that moment asking her if she'd like another drink. Stone faced, Ava kept her eyes forward, looking at the crowd.

"Another hemlock, and keep them coming."

She wanted to get better acquainted with HIM, but would wait for a good opportunity. For now, she looked back over her sister, who was still just a few feet away, with her back turned.

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

:: An electric "buzzing" sound is heard, as Viper's VINE WHIP lashes out with a snap/CRACK & KNOCKS the serving tray with Persephone's drink on it out of the server's hand. The tray slams against the wall. The server clears out FAST, and other members present scream and run for cover.::

OH NO! DON'T RUN!

[ THAT VOICE, that Ava and Haleigh BOTH thought they'd never hear again, with it's haunting resonance, RINGS OUT in the Upper Salon]

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

[ With smooth, fluent movement and command over her vicious vine whip, Viper strikes again, FORCIBLY seperating Haleigh from Lord Ravena, this time, the vine whip is CHARGED with the energy of Viper's venom blast. She COULD have commanded it to DISCHARGE and blast/burn Haleigh to a CRISP.]

You're NOT a princess. You're nothing more than a walking TINKER TOY.

It FIGURES you'd HIDE behind Auntie Diana.

Well, SHE can't protect you from ME!

NO ONE CAN!

[ It all happens so fast! In one eye blurring moment, Jessica flies forward and with a deadly pass, KNOCKS Haleigh across the room and into the wall, and then PAINFULLY collides into Persephone, slamming her into the wall, and wrapping her vine whip around Persephone's neck, STRANGLING her.]


I'll KILL YOU AND ANYONE WHO GETS IN MY WAY, DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME!?

I can have fun TORTURING Haleigh...for HOURS... with my power. I don't even have to TOUCH her. I can DECONSTRUCT HER and remove the very thing that makes her feel like she's SPECIAL like me! I'll turn her BACK into what she REALLY is!

But YOU? You're not worth the time or artistic glee. I'll just MURDER YOU and DISSECT YOU!

You BARELY survived the last time we faught, PERFUMA, Sharon hates you BOTH now, she won't help you. And by the time Auntie Diana comes back...you'll be DEAD!

DEAD!

[ squeezing tighter, exerting more of her super strength, and making the vine whip GLOW with her green energy signature]

DEAD!

[ TIGHTER]

DEAD!

[TIGHTER STILL, Jessica squeals with DELIGHT as she tortures Ava like she would have one of her INSECT projects years ago.]