A Weekend Affair # 1 - The Great White Reception

[Masque]

New York City


Zach: “That’s what this whole weekend is about. Escorting them from the airport is about getting a jumpstart on the other courts, and controlling the first impression.”

Gia did a mental facepalm. She should’ve realized that…but she didn’t.

“Right; I forgot.”

Then it was onto the prank. Zach didn’t seem too impressed and Gia actually could see why: pranking the Red King may seem hilarious in theory, but in actual practice…Gia was of the opinion that Aleksander didn’t know the meaning of the word, ‘joke’. Zach then used his power over her. At least, she thought he did. His power could be so confusing to people at times.

Zach: “Gia...Bella Donna....”

Gia felt herself calm down.

Zach: “Why do you sabotage yourself, darling? You could really excel on the White Court. You’re a bonafide mafiosa. The Queen values your presence, and what you bring to Hellfire with your business connections.”

“And what makes you think I’m sabotaging myself, Zachary?”

She turned to him with a silly half-smirk. There were times that she really missed Ravena and his shadow people, especially her ‘bodyguards’, Yellow and Red. They had proven invaluable to her and to her business many, many, times. How was she to go about her business without the inside scoop?

Zach: “How about you try to focus your efforts on Archer Fairchild? He fancies himself a mob boss too. Stroke his ego, strike up a friendship. It’ll cool the heat off, and lift your stock at home.”

Gia made a face.

“Great. A man who will no doubt see me as a juicy piece of steak, all so that he could take over MY company and everything that goes with it. Fan-fucking-tastic.”

Many men had tried to come after the Nefaria organization simply because SHE was the boss and they thought that they could easily take it over. But she would not allow Archer Fairchild to take over her organization and business assets. He might think that he could wine and dine her to win her over, seize a hold on the American side of things, but she would not allow it.

“Hey, how about YOU impress the men and I charm the ladies?”

With that, she stuck her tongue out at Armani and burst out laughing.

 

[Berserker]

The Gardens

He laid next to her in the grass, catching his breath, cooling off. He was on a post-fuck high, and there was nothing like it. She told him it was amazing, and it was. He told her he aimed to please, because he did. With her at least.

“Well, you never fail to.”

"Can I quote you on that?"

He grinned, rolling onto his side to face her. She wanted to talk about that weekend's festivities. That was no problem, he liked discussing the running of the club with her. They worked well together, and she knew how to play the game. His fingers stroked her skin gently. He'd have liked to have another round with her, but he knew it was unlikely that she would stay with him long enough.

“No doubt you’ve done your own assessment of the visitors.

He nodded, silently. The spymaster had little birds even in their own organization. Their court was younger even than New York's, for the most part, and their transition had been a lot messier. But he wanted to hear what Haleigh thought.

"I’ve heard it all from Heidi, who implies almost all of them are useless, and then I’ve gotten some unbiased intel from my own sources.”

"Heidi would think they were useless, wouldn't she? Then again, we're worried about cracks - Europe has craters."

He didn't really think there was much to be gained from this weekend, pretending like the HEB was anywhere near what they were.

“I’ve told the foreigners we want to forge alliances, get to know them better. Make business ties for mutual benefit.”

He smirked.

"Is that with all of us, or just the White Court?"

His tone was playful, even if the question was serious. He expected no less from Haleigh than to put her court first. Her hand went to his, in a gesture that surprised him.

“But what I really want it to expand, worldwide - - but not blindly. I need to know which of them is worth a damn, and which of them should die of a freak accident. We can divide and conquer.... I can’t do it ALL... I need you.”

"Aw, Hales, I didn't know you cared..."

He grinned over at her, then gave her the serious answer.

"I know the party line here is that we are trying to be strong and make a good impression of unity on the Euros. But let's face it, we could take their court with just our Knights while everyone else stayed home and got shitfaced. The Whites are the only ones with any real power, the rest of the courts are in upheaval and/or infighting amongst themselves. We might be able to cherry pick a couple of them, when we can see what they're made of in person. And I'm sure Ashley would love to charm the White King from what I've seen in his profile. And the White Queen for that matter."

The smirk on his face was not quite perturbed, not quite joking.

"Though we'll want our own people over there...people we can trust. Who won't fuck it up."

He ran a hand through his hair.

"Ashley is convinced the Euros will try something while they're here. And she doesn't intend to be lenient if that happens."

 

[Bishop]

Ava's Bedroom

"Yes...fuck..."

Ava broke the mirror with her hand as he rammed her against it, which somehow was really hot. He didn't stop as she came, feeling her body shudder and pulse, feeling the slickness on his cock. Her eyes were watching him through the mirror, and he thought he felt his dick harden even more at the sight of her. His mouth went back to her neck, his hand slid up to grab her breast, but his eyes never left hers in the mirror.

"Harder."

He lifted his head and gave her a devious smirk. What the queen wants...

After his next thrust he pulled out of her, and reached down to guide his tip into her ass. He sheathed himself into her in one motion, moaning out, resuming his rapid pace once more, not giving her any time to adjust. He knew Ava loved to be fucked like this, knew she would come again. His hand slid down her body again and his fingers slipped inside her, moving as fast as his dick was.

"Is that hard enough baby?"

 

[Persephone]

He was watching her watch him and Ava grinned, letting out a growl like laugh as his hand slid up to grab her breast. She wasn't ready for him to stop and told him to go harder, his grin now matching hers. He trust into her hard and Ava bit her lip while grunting. Then he withdrew making her breath hitch in her throat until she felt him guide his tip into her ass. Fuck. He pushed in hard making Ava cry out and slump her chest onto the dresser, knocking what remaining items were on it off.

Ava's hand clawed at the mirror, pieces of glass and dust breaking off in her hand. She couldn't hold herself up, the pleasure too strong within her it nearly made her high. Her eyes were shut as he fucked her hard, face filled with pure ecstasy as she reached back and gripped his ass tightly.

Maxim: "Is that hard enough baby?"

"Fuck Max...don't stop.."

She groaned, feeling his fingers slip inside her as well. She was already close again, pushing her ass against each thrust Maxim made. Her back arch so her head could rest against the crook of his neck, bowing her body as he continued to fuck her senseless. She held onto his arm that was wrapped around her waist holding her stead, gripping it tightly at the pressure within her building once again. Then her eyes rolled shut as the damn broke, Ava coming once again as her cries filled her chamber room.

There was no doubt that Maxim was giving her exactly what she wanted, and she fucking hope John heard every moan, grunt, and scream of it.

 

[Fathom]

The Hellfire Club - - White Wing Study

Heidi glided down the corridor of the White Wing, her white silk tunic dress flowing loose. It was a bit translucent, most women would have worn a slip under it, but Heidi didn’t care. She’d dried the dress on the walk from the Aqua Ring, though the same could not be said for her hair, which was still a bit damp, as usual. She mussed it with her fingers a bit, giving it some volume, an quick effort to look decent for her King. Cameron was one of the few people of this era that she respected. He was the closest thing to a God as there was in this era. A lot of the Hellfire Inner Circle was like that, but some of them lacked class. The White King most definitely did not. He was regal in every sense. She found him in the study, sipping a martini, and he had her trademark venomous cocktail waiting for her.

“Many thanks...”

She said, her fingertips brushing his as she leaned across the desk to receive the glass. She sank into a cool leather seat in front of him.
Cameron: Thank you for answering my call so swiftly, Fathom.

She gave him a curt nod, her lips on the edge of her glass, taking a sip. She saw the look he was giving her, the appraisal.

Cameron: Your beauty and attendance is noted.

“My King, please....”

She said, but there was the hint of delight in her gaze, as she let him indulge, as she always did. He got down to the reason he’d summoned her, that his mother was hatching a scheme to ruin the weekend. Heidi’s eyes narrowed at that. Cameron rose from his chair and stalked around the desk to wear she sat. Her pulse quickened, even now, when most of her thoughts were given to Jack. She felt a connection with Neptune, as strong as the connection she felt with all sea creatures. But that didn’t mean she couldn’t see how attractive her King was, especially when he was this close. He spoke of his sister crashing the weekend, and him needing Heidi to be on high alert.

“I was already planning on it, Sire.”

She replied honestly, as he leaned in and reached for her necklace. His touch grazed her chest, and she licked the poison from her lips, just in case. He didn’t pull her in for a kiss, though. He just inspected the necklace, and elaborated on his sister.

Cameron: Erika is a worst case scenario. There is nothing she will not do for attention, up to and including murder and mass sacrifice. She will fuck and slit throats blindly, and she will not hesitate to make things uncomfortable.

“We’ve got a couple of those already.”

Heidi commented dryly.

Cameron: This is where you come in.

He said dropping her pendant back against her breast.

“What would you have of me, My King?”

He told her to keep an eye on his sister, and she nodded, taking another sip of her drink, since it didn’t seem he was going to make a move. He also tasked her with keeping her fellow court members in check.

“There’s no question Zach will represent us well.... but that little brat Gia....”

She pursed her lips tightly. Oh, what she would give to be allowed to take Gia to the bottom of the ocean.

“I’ll do my best.”

She promised. He went on to say that they would of course be focused on the White Court. Heidi would certainly be cordial, and she enjoyed Liam’s company, but that traitor Juliette.... Heidi wished she could talk her King and Queen OUT of trifling with the Vampire Princess who called herself Queen.

“Once they get acquainted with everyone here, they will realize they need our alliance. The other courts are sufficient to fill the empty seats at the round table.... but Our White Court leads the way, that’s easy to see.”

She assured him. He pushed a lock of hair behind her ear. She could felt the heat of him between them.

Cameron: That aside, I’m starting to feel jealous, my sweet. This Neptune, he seems to occupy a great deal of your time. Should I be worried my mermaid is no longer seeking diamonds.... but rubies?

He asked with a knowing grin, while Heidi watched his face carefully for signs of anger. She knew this moment was coming, in truth. Still, she was concerned that he’d command her to stop seeing Neptune. It wasn’t like the fling with Zach, or anyone else. She’d be miserable if she was forbidden from Jack, and his Aqua Ring. But how to put her King’s mind at ease?

“I’ve never cared for rubies, although sapphires are nice... but more directly, I’ve no interest in the Red Court. Jack and I.... we have a lot in common. And shouldn’t we cultivate cross-Court alliances?”

She asked, emboldened. No one had ever said anything about her friendship with Amanda. She could bring that up if she had to, along with the fact that everybody in this place had their fun as they pleased.

 

[Bishop]

Ava's Room

Her reaction to the new order of things fed him, the way she slumped forward, cried out with pleasure. The look on her face in the mirror. He held her up with one arm and fucked her with the other. Her head reached back and grabbed his ass, and he smiled salaciously. She told him not to stop, not that the thought had occurred to him. She pushed back against him, so he knew her need. And he wanted her to come again. She cried out loudly when she did, and his face was triumphant.

He thrust hard into her once more, then pulled out, coming on her ass, with a grunt of satisfaction.

He was still holding her upright, and he turned her to face him. He grinned like a Cheshire cat as he pressed against her body.

"Was it good for you?"

 

[Steel]

The Black Court Residence Wing

Steel walked at a brisk pace back towards the Black Queen's suite. He carried a large black velvet covered box which contained six different bracelet options for her. He had to focus on his duty - that was the only way he could keep a hold of himself. He had to stay in control. He had to be the Rook she deserved. She would realize he was right, that she didn't want him. That she deserved a King. There was a line between them now.

He could hear it almost as soon as he entered the hallway. It felt as if the entire building was shaking but he wasn't sure if that was just his imagination. It was Ava, loudly crying out. He slowed as he approached her door. He knew she wasn't being attacked. That wasn't the kind of sounds coming from the suite.

It was her right. Of course it was. And it proved his point: she didn't want him. She just wanted someone. But his grip on the box tightened. Her moans were getting louder. His jaw clenched. He wanted to break through the door and pull whoever was in there out and beat his face until it was unrecognizable. He wanted to scream at her. But he didn't. He just stood there, a knife cutting through him, making sure no one came to interrupt his Queen.

 

[Neptune]

The Hellfire Club - - The Aqua Ring

He climbed up onto the mezzanine, where the Red Queen was waiting. She took a long hard look at him, as he apologized for keeping her waiting. He thought he could see her consider seducing him, but he could also see she had the Savage glow, and so he wasn’t surprised or bothered when she didn’t make an overtures. It was good she had Savage, especially since they all knew their King wouldn’t satisfy her, though none of them knew why. Jack would please her if she asked, it wasn’t like it was a chore. But he didn’t pursue Ashley, because he wanted Heidi. He led Ashley to the control deck. She asked about his work along the way.

“Well enough, I suppose.”

He said curtly, and then he realized she was probably asking for a report.

“Specimen Eight was killed last night, but it’s no real loss. We’ve determined there was a fight amongst the males. Specimen Six was wounded, as you saw. The good news is, we’re observing the same behavioral patterns in our bio-hazards as what we would expect to see in natural species, out in the wild.”

He told her, and then he brought up the topic she really wanted to discuss. He ventured that she wanted to show off their strengths, and she confirmed it. She also made it clear that if the Europeans tried something stupid, they’d be shown no mercy. THAT made Jack smile, briefly. She was ruthless, and fierce. Unlike most of these humans, she had not lost her instincts. She knew very well that only the strong survive. He nodded, agreeing that it was wise to project power. And yet, he had some advice, if she cared to hear it.

Ash: Please.

She said, giving him the go ahead. He was grateful not to have been dismissed, like he would have been if he’d tried to tell Helena about anything other than her beauty. This small gesture was the basis of why Jack made no effort to stop the overthrowing of the previous regime. The new one was a vast improvement, certainly. He told Ashley about the White King, and the potential that lied therein.

Ashley: A brain, then. I can work with that. And if he’s as strong as you say, an alliance could certainly strengthen our position. Especially if a partnership could be formed with the applications of his research.

“My thoughts exactly.”

He agreed, and then he mentioned the White King’s staying power. He’d survived the European coup, he was the only one to keep from being cast down. That demonstrated, at least, enough cunning. Ash commented that it was something they all could use, and then she praised him.

“Thank you.”

He replied, terse but sincere. He tossed his damp towel in the bin, and then she touched his arm. He peered at her curiously.

Ash: She can have your heart, Neptune, as long as your loyalty is mine. I’m not Helena.

“Your Grace....”

He started, his voice its usual low pitch, and unwavering.

“I respect you too much to betray you.”

He answered truthfully. One day he might wish to leave Hellfire, if he ever found the place he came from. But he would always be an ally of Hellfire, and a friend of hers particularly.

“It wouldn’t be possible to mistake you for that horrible harpy, Helena.”

He added.

 

[Persephone]

Max pushed into her with one more forceful thrust until quickly withdrawing and coming on her ass. Ava was panting out through her aftershocks, her body gently trembling in his arms while trying to catch her breath. Craning her neck back and to the side, she finally gathered her bearings and steadied herself on her own feet. That was when Max turned her to him, grinning like he just one the grand prize at some bum fuck midwest county fair he surely used to frequent.

Maxim: "Was it good for you?"

He was a cocky mother fucker causing Ava to smirk despite herself.

"Well I know it was good for you. I have the evidence on my ass."

Rolling her eyes she pushed past Max and made her way into her bathroom to clean up said evidence. Looking at herself in the mirror, she pulled her hair up into a high messy bun knowing she needed to kick him out asap and take a shower before her makeup and hair people came. Walking back out into the living room, he was already partially dressed when Ava picked up her silk robe.

"I do have another job for you, Max. One that involves your other favorite hobby."

Wrapping the robe around herself, she tied it shut.

"I need you to hunt down the men that exclusively work for Archer Fairchild and kill them all. I'll send the specs to your phone."

She watched as he put on his shirt.

"And I shouldn't have to remind you to be discrete about this. I don't want this coming back to me."

Walking up to him, Ava smirked as she drug her finger up his throat and under his chin.

"And don't worry, you'll get a very hefty payment....and then some."

She brought her lips heatedly against his, showing him exactly what his bonus would be if he completed the mission. Pressing her body against his, she held the kiss for a long while before finally breaking it, her hands on his muscular chest pushing him towards her door.

"Now get out. I need to get ready for tonight."

She grinned cheekily as she walked with him and opened it. She didn't immediately notice John, not at first. But when she did her grin faded. He was standing there holding a velvet covered box within his hands. She could see him gripping the box tightly at the sight of her with Maxim. Good. Then an idea dawned on her.

"Actually....[turning to Maxim] would you like to escort me to tonight's mixer? Free booze, and I can discuss that job in more detail with you and exactly what compensation I have in mind."

Her dark eyes gleamed with malice with a smile soon following.

 

[Prophet]

Hellfire Mansion - The White Wing Study

Fathom: "There's no question Zach will represent us well...but that little brat Gia...I'll do my best."

Cameron pursed his lips with amusement as he just realized it might be time for a little personal punishment session with Gia. He might like to see what shades of red her olive skin would turn after a session with his horse whip. He would keep this in mind.

As the conversation turned to Neptune, Heidi got noticably uncomfortable and it was interesting to see. For as long as he knew Heidi, she seemed contently herself. Very self assured, very precise. It made her a valiant and effective knight. She knew her place, and she never questioned her role. It was almost amusing to see her words betray her heart and mind as if she didn't know that Cameron was the strongest telepath in the world and a damn good empath as well.

Heidi: "I've never cared for rubies, although sapphires are nice...but more directly, I've no interest in the Red Court. Jack and I... we have a lot in common. And shouldn't we cultivate cross-court alliances?"

Her pensive reaction turned him on, and it was telling. Every member of The Inner Circle would say they had eyes and ears everywhere, and for the most part they did. Information was power in Hellfire, but Cameron had a view that few others did. He could see the motivation behind their words, feel their true intentions. And this made him a very effective ruler. In a jerking motion her turned her chair to face him, before standing incredibly close to her, forcing her legs open with his strong and tall legs, his knees now cradling the inside of her thighs.

"This is true, Fathom. But don't fret. Your King sees no problem with your closeness to Neptune. You ache for him, that much i can tell..but."

Cameron dropped to his knees, his hands on her knees, his finger tracing the outline of her thigh as he shot her a stern look.

"Do not lie to me again about how you feel. Or at all."

His hand began to move down her thigh, dangerously close to her womanhood. Although he was a King, he believed that bodies belonged to their owners, and he only pressed forward once he could sense Heidi's desire for his hand to touch her where she wanted to be touched. He let out a relieved sigh as his finger danced just near the flames of her front door, not yet opening it.

"My drink."

Cameron gestured to her. Heidi grabbed his martini from the desk as he served it to him, their eyes never breaking eye contact.

"Because lying will cause me to question your loyalty. And while you may give your heart and body to whomever you choose...your LOYALTY?"

His finger entered her with delicate and forceful grace as she exhaled loudly.

"That belongs to ME."

Relationships had been the cause of many problems in Hellfire. In fact they had caused bloodbaths. The Red Court was a prime example of that. He trusted his own court. He trusted Heidi, but there WERE lines she could cross if she let herself get caught up. The second one let their guard down here..with ANYONE, would be the second their house of cards would follow.

Cameron kissed her inner thigh, his scruff lightly tickling her as he looked up. This was a decided move as well. He was her King, but he was at her feet. A King of the People, if you will.

"Undying."

His mouth moved up.

"Unwaivering."

Up.

"Unadulterated."

IN. Cameron's head was now in between Heidi's legs as he gave her a hello kiss, feeling her body writhe for a few moments as he lifted his head up, having pushed her dress up, gathering it at her lap.

"And that loyalty could put you in some precarious positions."

His head went down as he licked her warm lips, before turning up again, flashing a cheeky smile.

"Besides this one."

He exhaled his warm breath on Heidi's thigh.

"My temper runs hot, and your sword is my battleship. I need to know, that if I were to set my sights on The Red Court, declare Neptune my enemy, that you would be my warrior. That you would shed his blood all over the Aqua Ring."

"Mmm."

The thought of such a beautifully tragic scene caused his dick to swell in his pants as he buried himself between Heidi's legs, getting lost in a frenzy, as Heidi arched her back in ecstacy. After several minutes, when she had spent herself all over his face, Cameron rose from his knees, wiped his face on his sleeve and took another sip of his martini, watching her compose herself.

"Do not let him make you taste any less sweet."

The White King downed the rest of his martini and set the glass down on his desk, before offering Heidi his hand.

"A intriguing weekend awaits us all, my Knight. And I do hope you enjoy yourself, but for now.."

He gave her hand as kiss.

"I've got an appointment with my wife. I look forward to this evening."

Heidi bowed before him as he made his way out of The White Study and down the hall towards his quarters, where he hoped his wife would be waiting for him as he had instructed.

 

[Valkyrie]

The Aqua Ring

As they walked together to a place where they could more easily talk, she asked about his work. It was certainly what one would call "out of the box" and she was proud of Neptune's intelligence and successes. It rounded out her Court nicely, having someone who was not only brawn, but brains as well. And she had no problem with anything that could give their court an edge.

“Specimen Eight was killed last night, but it’s no real loss. We’ve determined there was a fight amongst the males. Specimen Six was wounded, as you saw. The good news is, we’re observing the same behavioral patterns in our bio-hazards as what we would expect to see in natural species, out in the wild.”

She glanced back towards the tanks.

"What about...mating? Can they be bred?"

It was small talk, but she was interested in the implications of such an expansion of the program. When they reached the control deck, the topic changed to why she had come. He advised her about the soon-to-arrive guests, and their thinking aligned. Make an alliance with the White King to get access to his research. She praised him, and these visits with both her Knight and Bishop reaffirmed her confidence about this European branch visit. Her court was strong.

But there was something else she wanted to speak to Neptune about. Heidi. It was no secret that Helena had required her court to love no one but their queen. And it had been the unmaking of the Court. Ashley was not going to let that happen. She didn't hide things from her Court - they had her trust implicitly, or they wouldn't be on her court - and she was going to make sure she was clear. Not that she would accept any disloyalty - but she needed to make sure her Bishop knew where he stood. As long as Jack did his duty to her, she didn't care who he was in love with. Especially when it brought her interesting tidbits of info about the White Court.

“Your Grace...I respect you too much to betray you.”

"I know."

She smiled, warmly, her hand sliding down his arm to his hand and squeezing it.

"I know."

She leaned in closer to him, her body language turning seductive, her fingernail tracing an X pattern over his chest.

"But if she breaks your heart, my Bishop, I will kill her."

She looked into his eyes with a devious smile and then, after a pause her face broke, and she gave a small laugh.

“It wouldn’t be possible to mistake you for that horrible harpy, Helena.”

She patted his chest.

"Correct answer."

She stepped back from him, the serious mood gone.

"I'll leave you to your test subjects. But don't be late tonight. Now, I know it's rare for you to hear me say this, but make sure you wear a shirt. I want my warriors with me and ready to impress."

She backed away, giving him a wink as she turned and headed back to her own chambers.

 

[Bishop]

Ava's Room

When he'd finished, he turned her to face him and asked if it was good for her.

"Well I know it was good for you. I have the evidence on my ass."

He grinned, puffed up like the rooster in the henhouse.

"There's more where that came from."

He laughed as she rolled her eyes and went into the bathroom. She probably was going to need a nap now, and he did too, honestly, but he was not about to try to sleep with her draped all over him so he decided a quick exit was best. He reached for his pants and started pulling them on, hoping to be dressed and out the door before she came back from the bathroom. But no such luck.

"I do have another job for you, Max. One that involves your other favorite hobby."

"Oh yeah?"

He pulled his shirt over his head.

"I need you to hunt down the men that exclusively work for Archer Fairchild and kill them all. I'll send the specs to your phone.

"I thought you were going to give me a challenge. Consider it done."

"And I shouldn't have to remind you to be discrete about this. I don't want this coming back to me."

"Not my first rodeo, sister, which you should know by now. Discrete is my middle name. Right along with huge and dick. But you know-"

Her finger ran up his throat, in a way that made him reconsider leaving so quickly.

"And don't worry, you'll get a very hefty payment....and then some."

"You read my mind."

"Now get out. I need to get ready for tonight."

He wasn't about to argue about that. He was leaving with a happy cock and a job, it didn't get better than that. She opened the door for him, and he stepped out into the hallway, past her bodyguard or whatever he was. They gave each other ridiculous names in this place, and he didn't give a shit enough to remember what they were. But he was happy to see that the dude looked like he'd just ate shit.

"Actually....[turning to Maxim] would you like to escort me to tonight's mixer? Free booze, and I can discuss that job in more detail with you and exactly what compensation I have in mind."

The last thing he wanted to do was hang out with bunch of pretentious assholes.

Steel: "But...my Queen. The European delegation...he's a flatscan."

Then again, pissing off a bunch of pretentious assholes was right up his alley. He ignored the doorstop, and stepped back into the doorway, putting a hand on Ava's waist.

"Maybe you can give me an advance tonight?"

He gave her a predatory look, then turned, putting a hand on Steel's shoulder and leaning in to his ear as he walked by.

"I just fucked your queen."

 

[Steel]

Outside the Black Queen's Suite

The sounds from inside the room had blissfully ceased. His breathing was still elevated, however, his hands in a death grip on the box. He was imagining what was going on inside. Some unworthy cunt's arms around her, his mouth on her, hers on him...

And then suddenly the door opened to reveal Ava...and Maxim Sheremetyev? Their fucking hitman? His mouth dropped open and then quickly shut.

"Actually....[turning to Maxim] would you like to escort me to tonight's mixer? Free booze, and I can discuss that job in more detail with you and exactly what compensation I have in mind."

"But...my Queen. The European delegation...he's a flatscan."

Surely she wasn't going to jeopardize the standing of the Court for...for...this.

"Maybe you can give me an advance tonight?"

He was touching her now. Touching her. This was the kind of man his Queen killed without a second thought. She didn't fuck them. And she certainly didn't invite them to Court events. John could have bashed his head in with the box he held in his hands. The look on the guy's face as he turned and his eyes met Steel's, like he was somebody, like he'd just done some feat of strength...and then Maxim put his hand on his shoulder like they were buddies sharing some secret.

And then:

"I just fucked your queen."

Steel made the most imperceptible motion in Bishop's direction, rage boiling inside of him and about to overflow into murder.

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club - - The Gardens

Alek: Can I quote you on that?

He asked, when she said he never failed to please. She chuckled lightly, and nodded her head.

“Sure, why not.”

She said, and they got around to business. She was sure he’d done his own research on their visitors, as she had. And there was Heidi’s insider opinion.

Alek: Heidi would think they were useless, wouldn’t she?

“Well, yes, but then Heidi thinks MOST people are. It’s just that Hellfire Europe receives particularly low marks in her assessment.”

Alek: Then again, we’re worried about cracks - Europe has craters.

“True, but then their revolution was much more dangerous, and costly. Gotta give them credit for the size of their balls, though.”

She said, and then she went on to tell him that she’d led the foreigners to believe that the purpose of this weekend’s visit was to make alliances.

Alek: Is that with all of us, or just the White Court?

He asked her, a hint of humor, but she knew he wanted an answer.

“The White Court isn’t the ONLY Court, I haven’t forgotten that. I would say we’re the best Court, but then, I was kind of BORN into it, so I understand I’m a bit biased.”

She retorted, and then she stopped being jocose.

“In all serious, we’re all on the same team, the whole Inner Circle. What benefits you will benefit me, and vice-versa.”

She replied, and then she told him her ultimate goal was to expand their influence worldwide. They had America under their control, but Haleigh was ambitious. She saw no reason they could not rule The World. But she needed his help to accomplish that, and she acknowledged that.

Alek: Aw, Hales, I didn’t know you cared.

“Ugh, fuck. I set myself up for that one.”

She griped, with a roll of her eyes.

“See if I ever say anything nice to you again.”

She threatened insincerely.

Alek: I know the party line here is that we’re trying to be strong and make a good impression on the Euros. But let’s face it, we could take their courts with just our Knights everyone else stayed home and got shitfaced.

Haleigh considered that, thinking of Heidi, AJ, and Amanda. It was quite sexy, the idea of the havoc the trio would wreak if they were unleashed on Europe. Her lips twisted into a wicked smile.

“We could play a drinking game as we watched the footage. Every time they scream, we do a shot.”

She mused. He said that the White Courts held the all the power.

“Careful, Bearclaw. Underestimating our opposition is a sure avenue to an unpleasant surprise.”

She cautioned gently. He was strong, and fearless, and that was good. But even if the European coup resulted in mass casualties, it didn’t mean they should assume all those who participated in it were sloppy or reckless. The Euros were strong enough together to succeed in their plot, and that was enough. He commented that Ashley would be interested in the White King, and probably the Queen as well.

“Yeah, and I wouldn’t put it past her to try to get them in a threesome. I wouldn’t even be mad.... just impressed, really. But even so, and no offense, but I’m not worried about the Red Queen’s wiles.”

In fact, if Ashley succeeded in seducing one (or all) of them, it would only serve to make their task easier. Sexual relationships usually led to the dropping of one’s guard. Ashley knew that, and wouldn’t hesitate to take advantage. If it worked, then an alliance was secured. If it backfired, it wasn’t like a Haleigh had no tactics of her own.

Alek: Though we’ll want our own people over there, people we can’t trust. Who won’t fuck it up.

“I’m already on it. But I don’t want THEM to know that.”

Alek: Ashley is convinced the Euros will try something while they’re here. And she doesn’t intend to be lenient if they do.

Haleigh smirked.

“That’s why she’s awesome. That, and the whole scary-face-thing she does. If the foreigners are dumb enough to provoke us, they’ll get massacred. And then we’ll take Europe like a blushing bride.”

She said, sitting up slowly and reaching for her skirt.

“Now if you’ll excuse me, you DID, in fact, make me blow something up.... and I should check on the extent of the damage.”

She was also excited for her husband, but it was awkward to say so. She was buttoning up her shirt when she decided to try something ‘new’. It didn’t all have to be aggression and bloodlust. She leaned in slowly and kissed his lips.

“Thanks for everything.”

She said, and then she disappeared. She reappeared in the Security Control Room. The air was still smoky, and there was white powder from fire extinguishers on every surface. The staff starting to clean up and assess their status, but they quickly noticed the White Queen’s arrival, and all froze in mid-task. All except one, her Head of Security.

 

[Persephone]

Maxim may have been an arrogant asshole, but he had a specific skill set that had always been beneficial to the Hellfire Club. It was the reason they kept them around for so long. So Ava decided that giving him the task of killing off all of Archer Fairchild's associates would wet his whistle a little bit, AND not leave any supernatural energy signatures that could potentially link back to her or the American Branch. Again, there were benefits to having a flatscan as a hitman.

Maxim: "I thought you were going to give me a challenge. Consider it done."

Ava smiled, pleased he was so eager.

"Perfect."

Although she did remind him that nothing could be linked back to her. Fairchild need not know she was the one who killed off his associates until she wanted him to know.

Maxim: "Not my first rodeo, sister, which you should know by now. Discrete is my middle name. Right along with huge and dick. But you know-"

"I thought it was giant and asshole. My mistake."

Rolling her eyes, he may have been mouthy and disrespectful on a good day, but he needed to watch what he said around other club members. Ava overlooked it because he fucked her senseless and made her come twice, but others wouldn't be so giving. She gave him a preview of what his compensation would be, along with money of course. He agreed, as Ava knew he would, and she began to push him toward her door needing him to leave so she could get ready for the mixer. However upon opening it, there was John, looking as steely as his codename. While she may have loved him as a friend, confidant, and more, she was still pissed. And when Ava Cassadine was pissed she tended to lash out and hurt people in the most painful way. So she invited Maxim to escort her to the mixer knowing that would be a twisted knife in John's side.

Steel: "But...my Queen. The European delegation...he's a flatscan."

"I didn't realize your opinion was needed on the matter."

She snapped, her eyes going to Maxim who moved his way past John and back to her. He wrapped his arm around her waist and gave her a look that suggested he would fuck her right in the doorway if given the opportunity.

Maxim: "Maybe you can give me an advance tonight?"

Ava lifted an eyebrow, a salacious smile tugging on her lips.

"Maybe."

Then Maxim did something so stupid Ava could have sworn she saw his one remaining brain cell he had left misfire. Max put his hand on John, telling him eye to eye that he just fucked Ava. He was about as tactful as a hand grenade, and Ava could see the smallest movement from John as he made a move for Maxim.

"Stand down."

Her eyes were dark as she watched John, his muscles still tense, that fiery, murderous, rage still in his eyes.

"NOW, Steel."

She wouldn't ask again.

 

[Orion]

New York City Streets

Gia: And What makes you think I’m sabotaging myself, Zachary?

She asked, facetiously. He gave her a sour stare. He wanted to slap that stupid grin right off her face, but it wouldn’t do to mark her face right before they met with their guests. But she was spending his patience, like a teenager testing the limits of Daddy’s leniency.

“Don’t be an arrogant fool Guiletta. You’re deliberately displeasing the Kings and Queens of Hellfire. You think it’s a joke? The joke will be on YOU, darling, when our Queen turns you to Silver and puts you on display in Foyer.”

He warned her sharply, and then he suggested she make an attempt to save her ass by doing well on their mission. She should focus her efforts on Archer, who shared her line of work.

Gia: Great. A man that will no doubt see me as a juicy piece of steak, all so that he could take over MY company, and everything that goes with it. Fan-fucking-tastic.”

Zach sneered, all charm gone. He was done with this farce.

“So what you’re saying is: You’re too WEAK to withstand a predictable plot pushed by a glorified drug dealer. If that’s true, I’m wasting my time. Your fate is sealed. Weakness is not tolerated in White.”

Gia: Hey, how about YOU impress the men, and I charm the ladies?

She tried to be cute, but Zach just scoffed, as the convoy pulled through the airport gate. They were early, but that was all part of the plan.

“Good luck with that, ragazza morta che cammina.” [Dead girl walking]

 

[Berserker]

The Gardens

He had to admit, going over business while lying next to a naked Haleigh certainly made it a more pleasant task. He gave his low opinion of the Euros, about the deep fissures in their courts.

“True, but then their revolution was much more dangerous, and costly. Gotta give them credit for the size of their balls, though.”

Alek scoffed.

"You killed Malice. I don't think they win in the balls department."

Haleigh said she'd told the Euros that this weekend was about building alliances, and Alek half joking asked her if that was with the White Court, or the entire branch?

“The White Court isn’t the ONLY Court, I haven’t forgotten that. I would say we’re the best Court, but then, I was kind of BORN into it, so I understand I’m a bit biased.”

Biased was an understatement. It was apparent that Haleigh had inherited from her mother the belief that she ruled the three courts. And by extension, her husband did as well.

“In all serious, we’re all on the same team, the whole Inner Circle. What benefits you will benefit me, and vice-versa.”

He eyed her with a smile.

"I'm glad you feel that way."

She told him she wanted to expand their influence worldwide, and that she needed him. This admission surprised him - even if she felt it, he didn't think she would admit it aloud. He teased her about it.

“See if I ever say anything nice to you again.”

"Well I wouldn't want you to strain yourself."

He took what Haleigh was saying, however, to the next logical conclusion. Which was: taking over their courts. He commented that the three Knights could do it by themselves as chaotic as the HEB was right now. The idea seemed to please her.

“We could play a drinking game as we watched the footage. Every time they scream, we do a shot.”

"Fuck, we'd be hammered. I'm not sure I'd trust you to be a gentleman."

His eyes crinkled at her in a teasing smile.

“Careful, Bearclaw. Underestimating our opposition is a sure avenue to an unpleasant surprise.”

"So is giving them undue concern."

He brought up Ashley, and how she'd probably be all over the White King at the very least, if not his queen too. And probably anyone else with a pulse. He was having second thoughts about the event they had planned for their guests for the weekend. Haleigh wasn't interested in Ashley's extracurricular activities, though, so he moved on to suggest that they would want their own people installed in Europe, which apparently Haleigh was already planning for. What those plans were, however... He mentioned that Ashley was on a hair trigger about the weekend, ready to hunt all their visitors down if they made a move on the Americans.

“That’s why she’s awesome. That, and the whole scary-face-thing she does. If the foreigners are dumb enough to provoke us, they’ll get massacred. And then we’ll take Europe like a blushing bride.”

"Stop, you'll make me hard again."

He didn't comment on Ashley. There was a time when watching her work had been what got him hard.

“Now if you’ll excuse me, you DID, in fact, make me blow something up.... and I should check on the extent of the damage.”

He sat up a little.

"Wait - what? Really?"

She was getting dressed, so he started to collect his clothes. And then Haleigh did something he'd never have expected in a million years: she kissed him. On the mouth. His hand went to the small of her back, and he gently massaged her lips with his own. Haleigh didn't kiss on the mouth. Not him anyway.

“Thanks for everything.”

And then she was gone. He exhaled long and slow, pretty sure his pants were feeling tighter since he'd put them on a minute ago. He sighed.

"What a woman."

 

[Oracle]

Security Control Room

"What are you waiting for? I need those blown motherboards switched out five minutes ago. Clear out anything with scorch marks on it and bring me those spare hard drives!"

Elizabeth York was rushing around, a large rubber mitt on her hand, separating flaming pieces of computer equipment from their casings, trying to save what she could. Not that the fire extinguishers had done things any good.

"And get some ionic hepa filters in here to clean out this smoke. I want all systems up in five minutes or less and us back to business as usual, or you're all fired."

She ripped the mitt off, then hopped down onto her back and scooted under one of the control panels, popping off the cover plate and checking on the state of the circuitry.

"And find me the source of that power surge! I'm not having security going down again with guests in the mansion."

She tore a fuse panel out, then extricated herself from the control panel and stood up, carefully examining the state of the fuses she'd pulled. And finally, she spoke to the White Queen, picking up a tiny screwdriver out of a kit opened haphazardly on the counter next to her and continuing to prod at the panel she held.

"Six minutes ago we experienced a massive power surge that blew through all our usual safeguards and took out the mainframe. I've never seen anything like it. We'll have all systems up again in four minutes."

 

[Steel]

Outside the Black Queen's Suite

He was shocked - shocked - when Ava invited the flatscan to the reception for the European delegates that evening. He literally could not believe it, even more than he couldn't believe the fucker had just been in her bedroom. So flabbergasted was he, that he questioned her there, in the middle of the hallway.

"I didn't realize your opinion was needed on the matter."

Her voice was cold and angry. And even though he knew it had been a faux pas to speak, she always listened to his advice. His mouth opened and closed a couple times but nothing came out. And then he had to watch the piece of shite paw at Ava, and her smile like some...some...teenage halfwit girl.

Maxim turned to go, and he put his hand on Steel's shoulder, like they were buddies. His face was so bleedin' smug, his eyes triumphant. And he whispered to him, like they were in the locker room of the old boys' club, that he'd fucked Steel's queen. His blood pressure, already high, immediately skyrocketed. He might have been the Black Rook, but all he could see was red and Maxim's face. He was going to rip that smug face clean off, along with his head. His body melted to silver-colored organic steel, tensing and ready to spring. He had just started towards Maxim when:

"Stand down."

He froze. Her order was clear. But internally he was boiling, his emotions a tempest, his eyes fixed on Maxim with a rage he had rarely known. Two seconds was all it would take to separate his head from his shoulders. Or his arms. And his legs. One at a time.

"NOW, Steel."

One second longer he allowed himself, and then he turned away, his body returning to its normal flesh color. He took two steps to the side of the door and stood at parade rest. The cunt looked like incredibly pleased with himself, grinning like a freakin' bobblehead.

Maxim: "Sorry, Johnny. Better luck next time."

Maxim turned his attention to Ava. Steel just stood there, eyes forward.

Maxim: "And I'll see you tonight."

When he turned the corner, Steel turned to face Ava, still holding the velvet box.

"I have the bracelet options you wanted, my Queen."

 

[Fathom]

The Hellfire Club - - White Wing Study

She downplayed her attachment to Jack, out of concern it would provoke him further. Of course, she forgot he could see right through that. He was usually quite subtle with his powers, and she was used to playing it close to the vest. Cameron spun her chair abruptly to face him. Heidi’s feet, crossed at the ankle, slid along the floor in an arc, as she sat up in surprise, her free hand going to her chest. The liquid in her glass sloshed out in a stream, then defied physics to return to her glass. The King’s knees split hers apart, and suddenly he had her undivided attention.

Cameron: This is true, Fathom. But do not fret. Your King sees no problem with your closeness to Neptune. You ache for him, that much I can tell... but.

She relaxed back into her chair, slowly. He was kneeling in front of her now, their eyes level and locked.

Cameron: Do not lie to me again about how you feel. Or at all.

“My King, I—”

But with the look he was giving her now, she stopped herself from saying another word. Better to just be silent now, her instincts told her. His hands were on her knees, and she was far more thrilled about it than she had any right to be. They had pushed the boundaries of propriety before, but this felt altogether different. More intense than ever before. His hands pressed up her thighs, and Heidi had the fleeting thought that she hoped her Queen would understand why she didn’t want him to stop. Cameron sighed, Heidi held her breath.

Cameron: My Drink.

Well you’re certainly welcome to it!

She thought, and she noticed he was gesturing towards his glass on the desk.

Oh..... that drink.

She realized with disappointment. She held his gaze, but concentrated on the martini glass, a difficult task considering her level of arousal. All the condensation trickled quickly down the stem and collected underneath the glass, and it began to glide towards them. It floated to her hand, and then she tilted it to his lips, so he could take a sip.

Cameron: Because lying will cause me to question your loyalty. And while you may give your heart and body to whomever you choose.... your LOYALTY?

All the air left her lungs audibly, and her eyes fluttered shut, as he pressed inside.

Cameron: That belongs to ME.

Yes........

She thought, and then she felt him kiss her thigh, and her eyes sprang open again, locking with his.

Cameron: Undying.... Unwavering....Unadulterated.

He said, kissing his way up her leg, and then he reached his destination, and Heidi started to drift back against the chair. Really, she nearly liquified. It was all she could do to keep a human form. And then he lifted his head.

Dear Gods, why did he stop??

Cameron: And that loyalty could put you in some precarious positions.

“You don’t say!”

She exclaimed breathily. He flashed her a smile.

Cameron: Besides this one.

She gave a short huff of humor, as he went on to say that he needed to know that if he named Neptune an enemy, she’d kill him. She stared at him. She knew she had to be honest now.

“I wouldn’t want to.... but if you asked it of me.... I would.”

Cameron: Mmm...

Sorry, Jack.....

She thought, and then the only thing she could think of was what her King was doing with his tongue. She gasped and moaned, and this time he didn’t stop until she came. When he finished he took his martini glass from her hand and drank from it.

Cameron: Do not let him make you taste any less sweet.

He said, as she slowly gathered herself and pulled the hem of her dress back down, flushed with pleasure.

“Well, If you insist...”

She remembered she had a drink of her own. She was holding the glass sideways, but it hadn’t spilled. She tilted it upright again and then lifted it to her lips. He held out his hand for hers, and she gave him her free one. He reminded her of his wife, and kissed her hand, leaving her there in the study, stunned.