A Weekend Affair # 4 - The Black Gala

[Berserker]

The Black Gala

Alek scoffed at the tamed tiger that walked by.

"And here I thought you were a fan of pussy."

"Not the kind with fur. They give me the creeps."

They moved further into the party, Brienne still holding on to his arm. He noticed Haleigh. He noticed Archer. And then he noticed Haleigh going off with Archer. He pointed Arch out to Brienne, saying that he must be feeling better, but she didn't seem concerned. Nor did she move towards them. She was too concerned with Erika King. Alek leaned in to her.

"I can't believe they let her back in here. She's a disaster waiting to happen."

But apparently Brienne didn't want to talk about Erika.

"I gather your Queen and her pet aren't showing?"

Alek shrugged.

"Fashionably late and all."

"How disrespectful."

"I met with her this afternoon. She needed to reiterate some things with our knight. I'm sure she'll be along. Ava would be pissed if she didn't come, so..."

A waiter brought them another flute of hemlock and a scotch on a tray, which Alek removed. He handed the flute to Brienne.

"I'm tired of talking about my queen. Let's talk about you, and Arch. How did you ever end up with him as your king?"

 

[Persephone]

"Babe! Have you seen my arm cuff?"

Ava called from the bathroom. She had sworn she left it in the bathroom with her other jewelry, but she couldn't find it for the life of her. Finally opening the door, Ava emerged wearing her Grecian styled dress and shoes, deciding to go a more risqué and sexy look as opposed to a traditional 'goddess' style. It was fit for a club, yet classic Ava. She was putting on some diamond stud earring, her head tilted a bit to the side as she crossed the room toward her vanity, laser focused on finding her missing bracelet. She wanted to keep the rest of her jewelry simple because she knew her arm cuff would be the wow piece of her outfit. Moving her black robe that was draped haphazardly along the top of her vanity, sure enough there was her cuff, hiding underneath it.

"Found it!"

She smiled, taking the cuff and slipping it on her left forearm Finally, she was ready for the gala. Her hair still lightly curled [per John's request], and makeup smokey and beautiful. She turned to John, adjusting the tie to her dress as she looked down at herself.

"So...how do I look?"

Her midnight eyes lifted to meet with his.

"Givenchy custom made it for me, but I was too busy to go in for a fitting."

She rolled her eyes playfully with an amused smile.

"I didn't want to kill another stylist."

 

[Savage]

Hellfire - The Red Queen's Suite

His Queen told him he’d deserved to rest, which only made him grunt grumpily. He should have been there. But then she said if anything had happened, she’d have come back here and let him kill the ‘King’. That made him relent a bit, that and the way she was kissing his body. He allowed that at least it was good that he could kill the little bear if he attacked his Queen. Nobody would argue with that. She kissed him, making him warm.

Ash: You know what I mean. You need to be careful around Alek. Who would protect me if you weren't here?

He pulled her closer, resting his chin on his chest so he could keep her gaze.

“I will always be here to protect you. Always, my Ashley.”

He told her, and then he suggested they skip the Gala, and have the private pizza party she’d promised him the night before. She replied that they were obligated to attend the Gala, because otherwise the Black Queen would be furious. Savage made an unhappy noise, but then his Queen promised him all night, no clothes, and immediately he smiled.

Ash: I'll do the rounds at the party, and then we can slip away back here.

“All right.”

Ash: I'd say you could skip the party, but the others might think you were doing it as a fuck you to Alek. And we need to keep them on our side.

“I wouldn’t let you go without me anyway.”

He said, as she played with his hair a bit. He gave a soothed smile. She assured him he could wear whatever he wanted, and that he didn’t have to talk to anyone. He was happy not to have to cram himself into a suit again, but he didn’t mind talking to the others. He never understood half of what these kids were saying, so often he found the conversation moved a bit fast. He should start to take part, start to pay closer attention. Once the ‘King’ was taken care of, his Queen would require more of him. Alek’s position as King could remain vacant for all AJ cared. It was Alek’s work that would still need to be done.

“I’ll talk, if that’s what it takes.”

He said, giving her a kiss and throwing the covers off. He slid out of bed and helped her up as well.

“Let’s be done with the work.”

He said, and then he smiled.

“Then we can dance...”

He said, as he pulled on a red-washed pair of jeans and his favorite old cut-up shirt. He donned his leather vest, and sat on the edge of the bed to put on his steel toed boots.

 

[Avalanche]

Hellfire - The Black Gala

Haleigh: "The Ice King survived! Truthfully I'm not surprised. I've been keeping a very close watch on you since the alcohol poisoning.."

Archer laughed.

"Really? Because my bed felt particularly empty, but go on."

Haleigh: "I'm so glad you feel up to partying again. I was concerned I wouldn't get to have any fun with you."

The White Queen was a blast in a glass, and usually Archer was always up for a blast. But it was clear he was being placated. The two began to walk down a dimly lit path lined with ferns and flowers. Archer had to give it up to Ava, this sure as hell beat the shark tank that was forced upon him last night. He didn't remember anything after he hit the ground in Arklay. Just darkness and distant voices he couldn't make out. Archer was no clairvoyant, but he couldn't help but feel as if Haleigh had been there, which set him on edge.

"I understand your concern after the reception I've received thus far. The hole lot of you seemed to have their arse sticks firmly inserted this weekend. A shame really..."

Haleigh: "I hope my Bishop has turned you on to a mutually beneficial relationship between our Courts. The Nefaria Empire would be a great resource for Sub Zero, and reciprocally, I look forward to doing business with you...And maybe there's more than just business in our futures?"

She gave him an alluring smile and for a moment Archer bought it. Everybody thought he was so easy to figure out, so easy to manipulate. Just flash a tit and wink and he would be theirs. But Archer hadn't become King and one of the world's biggest crime lords being led by a pretty woman. It was time to mix this Inner Circle up. They wanted his empire, and he was convinced that one of them had already made a move, he just didn't know who. It was time to stir things up at Hellfire America.

Archer gave The White Queen a cheeky wink.

"I think we both know your Bishop couldn't turn on a light switch..but that's neither here nor there."

A server came by as Archer grabbed a glass of champagne, but not before unscrewing the head to his black rosary necklace, a gift from his Queen, one of the only gifts that Archer cherished and took a bump before blowing his nostril, rubbing his nose.

"Alcohol poisoning my ass."

He hesitated for a moment and held the glass in his hand without drinking, deciding that it was best for him to pour his own drinks for the rest of the weekend.

"But you can't blame her really. I mean, you took away her beloved White Queen. And I? Well..I took out her father."

When the American uprising happened, Count Nefaria was in prison for whatever the hell they got him for at the time. For some time, Archer had been nervous that the American Red and White Courts would attempt to push him out of his own industry, so he looked at both options, decided which was best and delivered a crippling blow to the Nefaria Family, knowing that while the Count was a ruthless and cunning man, he was also a prideful idiot that would leave his empire to his idiot daughter. And so far it had worked out for him.

"I couldn't have two American Courts with their hands in an industry that is my bread and butter, and I couldn't outright kill a freshly installed Red King and Queen..so I did the next best thing."

The Black King laughed.

"And you have to admit, it worked. The Nefaria Family is quickly becoming the laughing stock of the criminal underworld. So no..I don't see myself working with them."

[smirking]

"Now your pawns, The Zaccharas, I could work with...and have many times in the past...[leaning in] If you ever have the chance to bed Claudia Zacchara, take it. Cunt of an angel on that one."

[pausing]

"But I don't like competition, no matter how healthy. Your Red Court and I have a long standing history of working together because we stay in our own lanes. We pass off opportunity better suited towards the other, and at the end of the day, we aren't reaching for the same cookie in the jar."

As a server came by he placed his glass back on the tray and watched it dissappear, reaching for a flask in his pocket and taking a swig of nice warm whiskey.

"Your entire Inner Circle is stacked, Haleigh. You have MysTech, Nefaria, Cassadine Corp. The mercenary ways of The Red Court. If this were Monopoly, I'd be watching you place hotels on Boardwalk and Park Place. I don't know about the others, but I'm not settling for a tenament on Mediterranean."

Archer eyed her up and down seeing if she would give any indication of what he was trying to piece together.

"Which reminds me...none of my tech seems to be working since my consciousness was restored. Interesting development with a woman of your abilities underneath running around. Any ideas as to what might be going on?"

He pulled his phone from his back pocket and lifted it up to face Haleigh, the screen indicating he had no service whatsoever.

 

[Pathfinder]

Hellfire Mansion - The Black Gala

She spent the rest of the afternoon with her legs wrapped around Zach's face, letting his beard tickle her in all the right places. And despite her initial thoughts of rebellion, she made good on her promise to take a swig of her mother's elixir. Erika needed a successful evening, and there was also a part of her that didn't want Zach to see how sick she could get. So many men said they could handle her, and so many had lost their lives trying. After ensuring she was thoroughly relaxed and centered, Erika summoned her full on glam squad for an adamantium manicure, blow out and all over buff and puff. Slipping into a skin tight white lace dress with a pouty pink lip, she put on her moonstone necklace, which helped center and consecrate the new channel of power that flowed through her body. Giving herself a once over in the mirror, she stepped out to see a dapper Zach Armani waiting for her.

Zach: "Ah, you look too god to be true, your highness."

The White Princess blushed as he wrapped his arm around her waist and led her towards the conservatory, which was beautifully decorated. Ava Cassadine may have been a bitch and an all around tramp, but she did have style. It was the one thing that all her money afforded her.

Announcer: "Ladies and Gentlemen, I present Erika King, escorted Zach Armani, the White Rook."

Erika gave a warm smile to the applause around her as Zach led them both seemingly right into the Lion's Den. The White Princess had been too preoccupied wth Zach to listen at the walls with a glass for all the gossip, so she had yet to become aware of the black court's new appointments.

Heidi: "Daniel, that's wonderful! I mean it's really too bad you couldn't be the White Bishop, but I'm happy to have you, even in Black."

Her eyes went to Heidi Scarborough, a woman she knew lightly from her worldly upbringing. Heidi came from the upper echelon of families in Europe, much like The Shaws and The Reeds. They had been in the same places as each other many times, but never really connected. Heidi was kind of a girl who gave off the vibe that she was better than those around her. Normally Erika would have delighted in proving to Heidi how wrong she was, but Heidi had never been a bitch about it, so she left her alone, which now proved to be smart as she was now The White Knight.

Zach: "You've joined the Black Court? Excellent, congratulations are in order."

Erika smiled at Daniel. This one she had a bit of a deeper relationship with. The two had connected over the years at various parties. Brienne and Erika had always relished in giving the other a hard time, but they had their jovial moments together, and those often involved Daniel being a buffer. She was beginning to feel a bit more hopeful, that although the entire world knew her to be a sadistic loon, she had connections. She had strings that she might be able to pull. She gave the new Black Bishop a warm hug.

[to Daniel] "Your ass looks so good in those jeans, Danny. Let's catch up later."

Archer arrived like a whirlwind and Erika immediately began to salivate. Her brother had tasked her with getting to the bottom of what Brienne was up to, but she couldn't help but be curious as to what exactly was going on with Brienne's king, and whether the two were related. Perhaps Brienne was looking to get rid of Archer in favor of a more bearded, homeless looking King. Not only that, but Erika's mystical alarms had been going off ever since she heard the black king fell ill in the woods. She wanted to get to the bottom of it, but Haleigh intervened.

Haleigh: "I'll take this one for the team. Erika, escort the Red Queen to a nice corner booth and keep her company while I attend the Black King. Bretta, I would like to meet with you, but if you'll please excuse me, there's a fire to put out."

Erika was surprised with the lack of desire she had to murder Haleigh for ordering her to do something. Perhaps a baby wouldn't be the worst thing in the entire world. And there was nobody better suited to charm The Red Queen than Erika. She decided to take the easy assignment and go with the flow. Erika bowed before Bretta with reverence and a smile.

"Right this way, your majesty."

Erika grabbed Bretta by the hand, leading her by the side as they made their way to an impressive moss covered booth lit by candles and fresh flowers that adorned the walls of the booth. As soon as they arrived into their booth, Erika ordered a bottle of Hemlock for the table.

"Now I hope you know that the sharing of hemlock between two women is a sacred occassion. Only a select few can stomach it. But what better way to celebrate the success of your court this weekend."

The White Princess poured them two glasses as the stone in Erika's necklace shimmered a bit with opaque power at being in the presence of a dark faerie. She rose her glass.

"To new beginnings."

Erika took a swig.

"I feel as if we've must have met somewhere over the years, though I'm sure I'd remember a woman of such beauty. And that's not me being nice, Bretta. You are smoking hot. Your family owns Celeste at The Lanesborough Hotel right? That's one of my favorite places in London. Such a decadent and rich atmosphere. You feel like you could be eating with the Queen Mum herself at any moment."

She gave The Red Queen a smirk as she took another sip of her drink.

"I wonder, do you have any plans for business stateside? I'd love to see what you'd bring to New York. Or do you have other interests you'd like to pursue?"

Erika King may have been crazy, but she was a very well connected woman. For much of her young adult life, being a socialite had been her career. There wasn't a list in New York City or Los Angeles that she wasn't on, and many people who were now up and comers in a number of industries had been people Erika had known her entire life. She could be of great use to The Red Queen, and in turn, it would pull a bit of favor away from the black court and put it square on the white.

 

[Discord]

Hellfire Mansion - The Black Gala

Heidi: "Daniel, that's wonderful! I mean it's really too bad you couldn't be the White Bishop, but I'm happy to have you, even in Black!"

Daniel smiled at Heidi genuinely. He was happy to know that although he was in a new place, with new faces and relationships that needed to be cultivated, he had a strong ally in The White Knight which in turn would get him a bit of favor with The White King. That and he had just hand delivered a gift to Heidi that was far more than what it seemed on the night of his arrival.

Zach: "You've joined the Black Court? Excellent, congratulations are in order!"

The Black Bishop laughed.

"Well! I'm certainly glad to know that my popularity proceeds me! I receive your fanfare with a request for more praise!"

Haleigh: "My my, Ava was been very busy renovating her court this weekend. Well, good for her. And welcome home, Daniel. You and I should talk--"

Announcer: "European Black King - Archer Fairchild!"

Daniel's glance immediately left Haleigh's and wandered over to Archer who looked surprisingly in good spirits from a man who almost died earlier. He was relieved to see that Archer was alive, but still nervous about what The Black King might face tonight and the days to come. And now, Daniel couldn't protect him in the way he might have been able to just hours earlier. It was Ava and Amanda who had made a move against Archer, and they were now where his loyalty lied. The only thing Daniel could hope for was that his light comment to Alek might register a bit of concern for the man, and that The Red King would do his best to ensure Archer's safety.

Haleigh: "Later, we'll definitely talk later."

"Dammit."

His first contact with The White Court was being cut short as Haleigh made a bee line towards Archer and Erika took away The Red Queen, but not before commenting on his ass. It didn't take a genius to figure out that Erika had finagled a court position for herself that had yet to be announced, and Daniel couldn't help but be amused. Erika was legendary for the trouble she managed to start and the blood she was willing to shed. Her on The Inner Circle was worth the price of admission easily.

Zach: "We'll have to celebrate your appointment with cigars and brandy after the party. It'll give us a chance to get to know each other better."

Daniel nodded.

"I'm glad to hear it, Zach. I'm well versed in Black and Red, but I'll be the first to admit, I'm a bit out of my league when it comes to white.."

Damn he was cute. That beard, those dimple. Those eyes. AND he was an empath, though that part sucked. There was no way Daniel was going to be able to manipulate a little touchy touchy. The White Rook would sense it.

"Well..we've got quite a bit of time before the after party. What do you say we grab a drink and talk a bit of shop?"

The two made their way over to the bar as they ordered a drink, Daniel opting for a whiskey neat.

"I gotta say, I'm a bit proud to see an empath serve as Rook. Everybody expects us to be Bishops. Never Rooks or Knights - no matter how ill informed the idea is. Good on you!"

Daniel smirked, his proper british accent lilting in the air as he gestured in a celebratory manner with his drink, his eyes still scanning the party for any sign of Ava and John, ready to spring into action before he glanced back at Zach.

"I've also heard of your family I believe. Diplomats yes? Do you follow the family way?"

 

[Valkyrie]

The Red Queen's Suite

She didn't know how to make him understand how afraid it made her, that Alek might do something to Savage. Or that Savage would snap and do something that the others viewed as enough of a threat that they'd do something she couldn't save him from. She knew he could take Alek, in a fair fight. But Alek didn't play fair. She tried to tell him, that she needed him, that if he was gone there would be no one...

He held her close, finding her eyes.

“I will always be here to protect you. Always, my Ashley.”

She smiled, and kissed him softly, the only thing she could do.

Savage tried to get her to skip the party, which she really wanted to do, but knew she couldn't. Least of all, for him. She wanted to be able to tell him to skip it, to wait here for her, but she knew that would be taken the wrong way by people they needed support from.

“I wouldn’t let you go without me anyway.”

Her smile widened, as she twined her fingers in his hair. She tried to take the sting out of having to go, letting him know he didn't have to wear a suit or be forced into conversation with the visitors.

“I’ll talk, if that’s what it takes.”

He gave her a kiss and threw the covers off them.

"I know. I just meant, you can enjoy yourself."

He reached out to help her get out of bed, and she stared at him blankly for a moment because she had assumed he would at least try for another round before they went to the party. But he was all business now, for someone who didn't want to go.

“Let’s be done with the work.”

So he wanted to get it over with, so they could come back. That she could approve of. She let him help her out of bed, and then he smiled and it made her go weak at the knees. Besides, if they started now, she was pretty sure they wouldn't stop until morning.

“Then we can dance...”

She laughed, grinning to herself, excited to get to do that with him. It didn't take her long to get ready, a brush through her hair and slipping into her Zuhair Murad red dress with fringe and roman style heeled sandals. It had a deep vee in the front which she knew Savage would appreciate.

"Oh gods."

When she saw what he was wearing, she wanted him to throw her on the floor and take her again. But instead, she reached for his hand and interlocked her fingers with his. She leaned up to kiss his cheek.

"You look so sexy, baby. I don't know how I'll keep my hands off you."

Her eyes were full of mischief, as she started to lead the way out of the room and into the hall. She kept hold of his hand for the elevator ride, and as they entered the conservatory together. It looked like a different place entirely, and Ashley was taken aback by it. It was darker than usual, and staff in various states of undress were milling about. She'd have to see if any of the females caught AJ's eye, since now she was shopping for a present for him. A tiger strolled near her and she knelt down to pet it.

That pelt would look really good on my wall...

There was so much to look at, and she clapped at the sword swallowers and fire breathers. And then she saw Alek and Brienne. She wrapped her hand around AJ's arm, and leaned in to whisper.

"Just trust me. And don't freak out."

Everyone seemed to be there. Everyone but John and Ava, that bitch. She's not even at her own party. Ashley led the way towards Alek, giving he and Brienne a big smile when she reached them.

"My King, don't you look dapper, as always."

She let go of AJs arm long enough to kiss both Alek's cheeks in greeting and pat his hand before turning to look at Brienne.

"And Brienne, don't you look amazing. I trust he's keeping you entertained?"

She returned to AJs side and took his hand again, leaning her body into him in the hope it would calm him.

"Well, have a great time you two."

And with a final smile she moved them away from Brienne and Alek. The smile left her face as they walked away, and her eyes slid up to AJs face.

"United front."

 

[Steel]

The Black King & Queen's Suite

Ava: "Babe! Have you seen my arm cuff?"

He was tempted to preserve his manliness and ask, What's an arm cuff? But being around Ava for fifteen years, and watching her as closely as he did, sadly he knew what it was.

"No, babe, haven't seen it. Did you check your closet?"

He came back into the bedroom, and started looking around for it. She came out of the bathroom, and he just stared. He felt like he had the first day he'd met her, completely breathless, like someone was squeezing inside his chest. It seemed impossible that a woman like her could be real.

Ava: "Found it!"

He smiled, because it was so endearing that something so small could make her so happy. She turned towards him, so he got the full effect, which was even more spectacular than his first glance had been.

Ava: "So...how do I look? Givenchy custom made it for me, but I was too busy to go in for a fitting."

Ava: "I didn't want to kill another stylist."

[at the same time] "Wouldn't want you to kill another stylist."

He came slowly toward her, holding her gaze, reaching out his hands to take both of hers.

"Who needs a fitting when you're perfect?"

He pulled her closer and kissed her softly. He appreciated the fact that Ava never pushed him away because he might ruin her makeup, as he had known other women to do.

"And you are perfect. You look..."

He shook his head.

"There aren't words to describe it."

He smiled.

"But I'm not entirely sure I want anyone else seeing you in that dress. Would you consider wearing a parka over it?"

There were plenty of times in their acquaintance that Steel had wished he could cover Ava up more in front of other men, but he'd never been allowed to express that opinion before. He grinned at her, knowing the answer would be a firm No. Couldn't blame a guy for trying. He was still grinning when his phone buzzed, and he pulled the gadget from his breast pocket. He looked down at it for a moment, then back up at Ava.

"It's Security. They're ready for us."

 

[Persephone]

Ava was finally ready, minus a very important gold and diamond Grecian arm cuff that she could have sworn she put in the bathroom. She called out for John, asking if he had seen it as she breezed into the bedroom looking for it. He said he hadn't, making her sigh as she approached her vanity. But sure enough, there it was, hiding under her robe. She smiled, slipping it on before turning around. John had a look on his face that made her smile broaden. It seemed a little dumbfounded which was so endearing and adorable. For the amount of times they had been together in the last 15 years, the fact that he still looked at her in awe made her heart flutter. Ava asked him how she looked, unable to get to the Givenchy fitting because she had been too busy.

"I didn't want to kill another stylist."

John: [at the same time] "Wouldn't want you to kill another stylist."

Ava laughed, blushing just a bit at how well John knew her and how picky she was about her clothing. He slowly approached her, taking her hands within his before pulling her close to him. His lips met with hers and she immediately felt the tension in her shoulders disappear as they kissed. He finally pulled back, Ava keeping her eyes shut for a moment longer to savor the feeling.

John: "And you are perfect. You look... There aren't words to describe it."

Ava's eyes lifted to meet with his, her smile carrying to them.

"Thank you..."

She softly responded between them, more than appreciating his compliment. Ava was a confident woman, and she knew when she looked damn good. But to hear John say it? It made her feel a little weak at the knees.

John: "But I'm not entirely sure I want anyone else seeing you in that dress. Would you consider wearing a parka over it?"

Ava scoffed out a laugh, taking his face within her hands. She leaned in close to him, a playful yet defiant glint in her eyes.

"Not a chance."

She gave him a quick kiss, patting his cheek as he grinned.

"I paid way too much for this dress to cover it up."

She added as she walked to the nightstand to grab her phone. She turned to see John looking down at his phone.

John: "It's Security. They're ready for us."

"Well it's about damn time."

She knew getting the inner circle together in one place was a task in itself. Ava handed John her phone to hold considering she had zero places to put it with the dress she was wearing. Taking his hand with a smile, she linked their fingers together.

"Lets do this."

It would be their first Black Court thrown party together as King and Queen and Ava was ready to celebrate the night away. She knew she had to keep the game going and be on point with everything that had happened thus far, but still, she wanted to enjoy herself for once. Walking through the living room, Ava patted her thigh for Onyx to follow then, the large cat jumping off the couch and trotting next to Ava. Both she and John made their way up the elevator to the conservatory, the doors parting to finally reveal the massive party she put together. Ava smiled at how amazing it turned out.

The DJ was informed that Ava and John had arrived, the music lowering as the announcer came over the loud speaker.

Announcer: "Ladies and Gentleman, the King and Queen of the American Black Court: John Steele and Ava Cassadine."

John and Ava stepped forward with Onyx standing front and center between them. The DJ's music began to boom over the speakers after the announcement, complimenting the power that they both radiated as Black King and Queen. The strobe lights bounced off them while the black lighting behind them created a purple hue around them both, like dark angels rising from hell. It was everything the Black Court represented. Dark, sultry, powerful, and deadly.

Onyx growled, showing his teeth at the sight of one of the tigers before slinking forward as both she and John made their way down to the main area of the conservatory where the majority of people were gathered. She gripped John's hand tightly, her free hand gently rubbing under where his jacket parted revealing his black button down. Ava's eyes were everywhere all at once. Ben and Amanda were together, and Daniel with Zach. Her court was accounted for. Brienne was being entertained by Alek, and Ava spotted Archer with Haleigh. He looked no worse for the wear, but she knew him and Brienne didn't buy the alcohol poisoning story that Amanda had come up with. The European Black King and Queen were both playing it cool, and Ava could tell that Haleigh was taking particular interest in Archer because she was fully aware of the current situation. It was impossible to hide any technological information from the White Queen, not that Ava was trying to.

She leaned into John, whispering to him. Though it would look as if she were simply being seductive with her lover.

"Haleigh knows. She's working Archer."

Ava turned to look away from Haleigh and Archer, her face going into the crook of John's neck giving him a kiss there. She whispered by his ear.

"We need to speak with her. She's better equip at keeping an eye on him, especially if he attempts to check in on his Sub Zero contacts."

 

[Black Widow]

Hellfire -- Conservatory

Haleigh made a pass at the Black King but he didn't bite. Maybe the near death experience left him neutered. Haleigh wouldn't have put it past Ava to punish him that way. Archer commented that Gia couldn't turn on a light switch, which was funny even if it was untrue. Haleigh chuckled lightly, then politely waited as Archer snatched up a champagne flute and snorted coke out of a rosary. So, he didn’t think he’d poisoned himself then.

Archer: But you can't blame her really. I mean, you took away her beloved White Queen. And I? Well..I took out her father.

Haleigh gave a cold smile.

“Her beloved White Queen is the one who put her dear father IN prison.”

In truth, Haleigh had been planning on securing the Count’s release, and restoring him as Bishop, since his daughter was clearly not ready to take the mantle. But Archer had taken it upon himself to cripple the Nefaria empire, and now he was boasting and laughing about it. Haleigh considered killing him on the spot, and presenting his confession as justification.

It was a gamble, and before Haleigh could decide his fate, Brienne’s arrival was announced, with Alek as her escort. Of course, she’d been expecting that. So why did it feel like she’d been sucker punched? She watched them walk in together, her expression carefully managed, and then she turned back to Archer, who was giving some crude recommendation regarding Claudia Zacchara. Haleigh smirked knowingly.

“So I’ve heard. My Rook was also pleased with her, though he expressed his satisfaction with a bit more class.”

She replied as she cast her gaze out around them, as if she were admiring the plants, though really she was using an X-ray vision filter to search for her husband. Why was he holed up in the corner, avoiding everyone, leaving her to do all the work? She couldn’t deal with how angry he was making her right now. She had to focus on Archer, who was busy ruminating on how he didn’t like competition.

Haleigh fought the urge to roll her eyes. The only people who didn’t like competition were the ones who couldn’t handle it. She didn’t respond, just pretended to actively listen to him blathering about his arrangement with the Red Court. He went on to acknowledge that there was quite a consolidation of power in the American Inner Circle, and something about not being interested in the Mediterranean. Then he remembered his phone wasn’t working, and he asked her if she had any ideas as to what might be the cause. Haleigh glanced at his phone, and after a beat, nodded.

“Yes, see, your problem is T-mobile. I’m sure it has a good network in the UK, but here in America, it’s known to be the carrier with shitty coverage.”

She found his eyes with hers, a smile creeping in.

“I could help you out with that..... but if we’re ‘staying in our own lanes’.... and not sharing our cookies.... I can’t say I’m inclined to do you any favors.”

She replied, just before Ava and John were announced.

“You know I find it strange, you and Brienne seem to prefer enemies to allies. If I were you, I’d switch tactics. Too many enemies got the previous regimes killed.”

 

[Steel]

The Black Gala

Ava handed him her phone, which he slipped into his pocket, chuckling to himself that he should probably be grateful not to have to hold her purse. She took his hand, and they made their way to the door, picking up Onyx along the way. He ran his thumb over the back of her hand in the elevator, stealing glances at her still. When they stepped off the elevator together, the doors were opened for them into a magical world. His eyes took everything in with wonder for a moment, before ducking his head to whisper to her.

"You did it."

He kissed her cheek.

"Everything looks amazing."

Hearing Ava talk about it and seeing it for himself were two very different things. She had really outdone herself with this party. He even caught sight of a couple tigers in the room.

"And look, friends for Onyx."

His chest swelled with pride as he walked into the party proper with Ava by his side. It felt like a dream, one he had had many times. But to stand there tonight, her equal, in rank at least - it didn't feel real. Both their eyes scanned the party.

Ava: "Haleigh knows. She's working Archer."

He smiled, pretending they were just making smalltalk.

"Good. As long as she's not selling us out."

Ava: "We need to speak with her. She's better equip at keeping an eye on him, especially if he attempts to check in on his Sub Zero contacts."

He pulled her around to face him, pressing her body against him. Leaning in for a kiss, he whispered back to her.

"Let's just hope she's not pissed off."

Haleigh was a lot less forgiving about being kept in the dark than he was, and she could very well choose this particular moment to teach Ava a lesson. He spun Ava around as if they were dancing, and moved the two of them in Haleigh's general direction.

"Something to drink?"

The blacklit colors around them, the fire breathers and other performers, it was like a circus for adults. He spied one of the servants in something that looked like French maid meets bondage. He grinned over at her, slipping his arm around her shoulders.

"Please tell me you'll be wearing that later."

 

[Hex]

Brienne scanned the conservatory upon entering, noting who and who was not already present at the party. That was when she spotted Erika, cozied up to the White Rook. Oh how she wished she could impale them both with a jagged tree branch. But instead, Brienne fluttered her fingers and waved at her old friend, before turning back to Alek. Give the inmates too much attention and they think they're equal to everyone else.

Alek: "I can't believe they let her back in here. She's a disaster waiting to happen."

"You don't know the half of it. And I'd rather not ruin the very wet state you placed my pussy in by talking about her."

She dismissed with a roll of her eyes. Nothing dried her up more than a King, especially Erika. She then realized that the only people not in attendance outside of Ava and John were Ashley and AJ. She questioned Alek about it, finding it quite disrespectful of the Red Queen not to show support of her own sister Queen's event. Fuck, she barely spoke to Bretta but she would at least show up, if not to drink all her booze.

Alek: "I met with her this afternoon. She needed to reiterate some things with our knight. I'm sure she'll be along. Ava would be pissed if she didn't come, so..."

"Rightfully so."

Alek got another round of drinks from them, Brienne giving him a very gracious smile. Drinking half the flute of hemlock, Alek changed the subject.

Alek: "I'm tired of talking about my queen. Let's talk about you, and Arch. How did you ever end up with him as your king?"

Brienne's eyes shifted to Archer, who was still in deep conversation with Haleigh. Either Alek was curious about how Archer became her King because they were old friends, or he was trying to get information as the Red King. Either way, Brienne casually shrugged up a shoulder.

"We ran in the same circles, it only seemed natural. Although I much prefer ruling alone...I only enjoy sharing my bed with a man."

She openly admitted with a smirk. Brienne had nothing against Archer, in fact he was a very close friend of hers. But as far as being ruler? Brienne hated sharing the title. Brienne hated sharing anything for that matter. But it was the cards that she was dealt and she would play her hand and protect her King as a Queen should.

Brienne's smirk morphed into a grin as her playful eyes met with Alek's

"Unless of course you're not opposed to a little ménage à tois? [running her finger along his jaw] But something tells me you're not."

Her mouth was dangerously close to Alek's, smirk still firmly in place. She was about to suggest that they go find a secluded area and see how loud he could make her scream again before the music couldn't drown her out anymore. But it was then that the Red Queen finally decided to make her presents at the party.

Ashley: "My King, don't you look dapper, as always."

Brienne took a step to the side, allowing Ashley to give Alek a cheek to cheek kiss. Well she certainly was putting on a show wasn't she? Her icy blue eyes surveyed Ashley, tilting her head a bit to the side before they shifted to AJ. He looked like he rolled out of a dumpster, Brienne lifting her eyebrows a bit in surprise that he was allowed to arrive in such a state.

Ashley: "And Brienne, don't you look amazing. I trust he's keeping you entertained?"

"As do you."

She turned her attention away from the tramp and back to the queen.

"Very entertained. I can't imagine why you've downgraded."

She gave Ashley a cheeky smile, watching her reign in her pet.

Ashley: "Well, have a great time you two."

"Thank you. You as well."

As Ashley and AJ walked away, Brienne couldn't help but let out a laugh, shaking her head at how ridiculous the Red Knight looked on the arm of a gorgeous Queen.

"I thought the dress code was upscale casual, not dumpster chić. Fucking hell, he must have a big dick..."

There was no other explanation. But in that moment the music lowered and the announcement was made that John and Ava had arrived. The spotlight turned to them, and Brienne looked over to see how fucking amazing Ava looked on the arm of a very dapper looking John. She even had a panther? For fuck sakes...Brienne may have hated her, but she had to admit when the dumb cunt looked hot. And she looked fucking hot.

"Maybe we can steal her away from Steele....ha, see what I did there?"

Brienne wasn't opposed to fucking Ava. As long as they could gag her so she wouldn't speak with that horrendous accent.

"Is she any good in bed?"

Brienne asked, unaware that Ava was the only Queen Alek hadn't bedded.

 

[Orion]

Hellfire -- Conservatory

Daniel: I'm glad to hear it, Zach. I'm well versed in Black and Red, but I'll be the first to admit, I'm a bit out of my league when it comes to white...

Zach gave a warm smile as Daniel suggested they get drinks now. Zach had offered to get together after the party, to allow the new Bishop a chance to prioritize his socializing, but if Daniel wanted to start with Zach, that was fine too.

"Don’t mind if I do.”

He replied serenely, and they branched off the main group to hit the bar. Zach didn’t even have to order, since the home staff knew what he liked. When he received his drink he lifted it up.

“Here’s to you, and your new appointment.”

Daniel noted that it was nice to see an empath in the Rook position, when everyone always cast them as Bishops.

“Thanks. You’ll find the White King and Queen regularly think outside the box.”

Daniel: I've also heard of your family I believe. Diplomats yes? Do you follow the family way?

Zach took a swig from his glass and nodded.

“Yes indeed. I keep Hellfire’s interests accounted for at the U.N.”

He said, turning on his barstool when Brienne was announced. She walked in on Alek’s arm, and Zach took another long drink. He’d almost had her. He gave a resigned sigh, which was drowned out by the announcement of Ash and AJ’s arrival. Ash looked WAY too good for AJ, but maybe Zach just felt that way because he was bitter that he wouldn’t be getting any from the Red Queen anymore. At least AJ was better for her than Alek.

“What about you, Daniel? What expertise are you bringing to the American Inner Circle?”

He asked, and as he waited for the answer, the Black King and Queen arrived.

“Looks like the party has officially started.”

 

[Persephone]

The conservatory was exactly as how she envisioned. It was dark, alluring, sexy, and dynamic. It showed Ava's true side as opposed to the ridiculous breakfast they had earlier that even she wasn't a fan of. But this? This was the Black Court. This was Ava. And although she had all this planned before John became her king, this was a reflection of him as well: strength and power.

John leaned in and whispered to her, kissing her cheek.

John: "You did it. Everything looks amazing."

She smiled at him, mouthing a thank you before they were officially announced. All eyes were on them, as they should be, and Ava made sure to soak it in before finally walking down the ramp with John to the main dance floor. She was already surveying the area and noting who was with who. That was when she saw Haleigh and Archer. Ava moved closely to John, touching him and leaning into him as two lovers would, but as a guise to talk shop.

John: "Good. As long as she's not selling us out."

"If she does, she just started a war with the black court."

Ava knew Haleigh wouldn't betray her, especially to take sides with Archer Fairchild. She may have been pissed Ava did this without consulting her, but the asshole deserved it after cornering her in the barn acting as if he was about to 'take' what he deserved from her. John moved Ava to face him, pressing their bodies together before kissing her. She smiled broadly - like a teenage girl flirting with her crush - as John leaned in an whispered in her ear.

John: "Let's just hope she's not pissed off."

She lightly laughed, pulling back to look into John's eyes.

"I'm sure she is. But this not only helps our court, but the American Branch as a whole. Once Archer is dead, his shares will be split amongst her and Ashley, which means they get a piece of the pie too."

Haleigh was a smart woman, which was why she was Queen. She knew what Ava had done was huge for their club. Haleigh told Ava to 'step up' at their meeting earlier, so she did...and then some. John took that opportunity to spin Ava as if they were dancing, making her chuckle before moving back to his side, wrapping her arm around his waist. His arm moved around her shoulder, guiding them toward Haleigh.

John: "Something to drink?"

"Champagne."

The night deserved a celebratory toast. John grabbed them both a flute and Ava stopped by one of the high top circle tables.

"Lets enjoy a drink first before we talk to Hales?"

Clinking her glass against his, she took a long sip, enjoying the dry and bubble liquid. Ava watched as John's eyes moved to one of the servant girls, grinning.

John: "Please tell me you'll be wearing that later."

Ava leaned into him, this time not for a show. Her lips brushed along the lobe of his ear while her hand slid under his jacket.

"Complete with leather wrist cuffs."

 

[Savage]

Hellfire - The Red Queen's Suite

He was tying up his boots when His Queen came back in, saying ‘oh gods’. He looked up in mild alarm, thinking there was something wrong, but then he got a look at her, and his heart skipped a beat. He stood up smiling.

“My Queen, you are ravishing.”

He told her, and she admitted she might not be able to keep her hands off him.

“Talk of that nature will prevent us from going to the Gala...”

He said, liking the look in her eyes, and how much of her skin he could still see. She led him by the hand to the elevator, and then into the party. It was some perversion of the gardens. Bombastic noise that could barely be called music blared at them, and the lighting was unnatural. And then there was the giant house cats, slinking around as if in a daze.

AJ wanted to bark at them just to get them to snap out of it. Ashley knelt down to pet one, and afterward they watched a couple of sideshow performers. She clapped for them, which made Savage smile. It warmed him to see her enjoying herself. Maybe this party wasn’t so bad after all.

His Queen wrapped her hand around his arm, and asked him to trust her. He did trust her, but he did NOT trust the one she led him to. He watched the whole interaction closely. Ashley greeted Alek and then talked to the girl. AJ glanced at her, then went back to watching the ‘King’. Before long, his Queen was pulling him away. He followed, interlocking their fingers gently. He should get to know these people, if he was going to be of any help to his Queen after the ‘King’ was dealt with, When they were out of ear shot, AJ looked down at his Queen with eyebrows raised curiously.

“Who was that with the little bear? She was dressed like she was one of the Dead Thing’s concubines.”

 

[Talisman]

The Former Black Queen's Arrival

<< The buzz of the private helicopter blades roared through the sky as Kelly sat comfortably in the luxurious accomodations of the cabin, her cobalt blue eyes watching the New York City skyline approach them. She had taken a risk, spending so much time away from the mansion today, but she was beginning to care less about the day to day melodramas of Hellfire. Many would say she was forced out, that she only kept her life at the insistance of her son, but those people were stupid. >>

"I know i've seen it a million times in my life, but the beauty of the city at night never ceases to amaze me."

<< She spoke to a man enshrouded in shadows sitting next to her as she reached for an ice cold flute of hemlock, taking it to her stained lips, enjoying a delicious sip before setting it down on the table next to her. Tonight was The Black Gala and Kelly did not want to miss it. Though Ava Cassadine was abhorrent and a never ending thorn in her side, she was the only woman capable of planning a Black Court event that would be worthy of the dark beauty and style it was known for. For all of Ava's failures, she did have style. And now she had a vested interest in the future of the girl who now called herself The Black Queen. >>

<< Kelly was going to cause a stir tonight, that much she knew and as the outline of The Hellfire Mansion began to close in on her, she felt a wave of excitement rush over her. Being free from the rules of The Hellfire Club had been confusing at first. She had been so used to looking over her shoulder, planning for any and everything that might have gotten in her way - trusting people she didn't trust. And she was good at it. But she was now in the place in her life, where she didn't have anybody left to answer to. Her life was hers as was her legacy, and tonight she would let everyone know that while the new Inner Circle had taken down a Queen, they were ill equipped to take down a King. >>

<< The helicopter touched down as an attendant opened the door. Her companion got out of the chopper first, extending a hand as he gently walked Kelly down from the steps and into a place with less air flow, as she smoothed down the front of her long black silk trenchcoat, which was part of the show. As the two made their way down the stairs, Kelly remained in signature smulder as her smoky eyes noticed the stares and gasps as she made her way towards the conservatory, making sure to grip her date tight. Just before rounding the corner, Kelly stopped herself, taking a moment to look at the man in front of her. >>

"Are you sure you want to do this?"

<< Kelly gestured around with her arms for a moment. >>

"This has always been more my thing. You have true freedom. And if putting you back into the Lion's Den is going to cause problems between us I ju--"

<< The tall and handsome man kissed Kelly passionately, grabbing her ass as she felt the warmth of his olive colored skin on her neck. For a moment, Kelly got lost in passion, wanting to take in every part of him that she could. All the parts that had been forbidden to her for so long. Because of their children. Because of Hellfire. >>

<< Their lips parted for a moment as they stood, her cobalt blue eyes piercing into his deep and warm, passionate brown. He had never been a man of many words, but when he did speak, people listened. And that was just one of the many things he loved about her. That and he was willing to help her get everything she wanted. And she was willing to do it for him as well. It scared her. >>

"He's in this with me.."

<< Exhaling deeply, the two of them rounded the corner and made their way to the entrance of the conservatory as one of Kelly's aides made his way over the announcer and whispered in his ear as the announcer nodded. This was it. >>

Announcer: "It appears we have some Special Guests this evening, and some Congratulations are in order. Please welcome Legacy Member of The Black Court, Stavros Cassadine and his new WIFE, Former Black Queen and Legacy Member herself, Kelly King Cassadine!"

<< The two entered the scene to much fanfare as Kelly watched the confused faces of The Inner Circles attempt to process what they heard. A smile crept across her lips as she untied her trench coat to reveal a grey dress, complimenting the sleek bun she was wearing as she made sure to wave, the strobing lights all reflecting against her massive wedding ring. Stavros' eyes immediately went to his daughter's to which Kelly gripped his bicep for a moment. >>

"Be prepared for a scene. From both of them."

<< She gestured towards her own son who seemed to be seething with rage. >>

"Better for them to come to us."

Stavros: "Oh they will come for us, this much is true. Scene is not the right word. Disaster fits better."

<< He spoke in his thick greek accent. Whatever was about to happen, Kelly was ready for it. She finally had the man she loved by her side. The children of Hellfire were going to have to deal with it. >>

 

[Persephone]

Ava nuzzled John's neck with a sexy giggle, planting gently kisses along his skin to give him just a taste of what was to come. She had special ordered the same outfits the servant girls were wearing for herself, except with a far less material and a little more bondage. John had been very patient throughout the day, and while they had sex multiple times, they had yet to truly celebrate him becoming King. This was their night as a couple and as King and Queen. The party was just the beginning.

Announcer: "It appears we have some Special Guests this evening, and some Congratulations are in order.

Ava barely heard the announcer, too wrapped up in the way John's body felt against hers as she pressed herself closer to him, enjoying the musky scent of his cologne. God he tasted good. His skin like butter against her lips.

Announcer: "Please welcome Legacy Member of The Black Court, Stavros Cassadine--"

Ava immediately stopped what she was doing, pulling away from John's neck.

Announcer: "--and his new WIFE, Former Black Queen and Legacy Member herself, Kelly King Cassadine!"

Ava's eyes widened as she stared forward in shock, her back facing Kelly and her father. There was some applause, but mostly murmurs, however Ava heard none of it. There was only the thunderous beating of her heart in her ears. The blood within her veins heating to a boil. Her breath starting to pick up as she slowly turned her head toward the main entrance of the conservatory to meet with her father's eyes. And in that moment, it all made sense. The gift....the note....he was preparing her for this. Trying to buy her acceptance. Trying to placate her anger. Her father married the woman who despised her since the moment she was born, and brought her to the biggest Black Court event since the new order took control in both American and European clubs. He married the woman who was the never ending thorn in her side since DAY ONE of her reign and announced his marriage at her event. Ava's midnight eyes were locked with Stavros', the fury of fire behind them apparent from even across the room. Then, she shifted them to Kelly King.

"You.....conniving....manipulative...."

Ava slowly moved across the dance floor, murder in her eyes. Complete tunnel vision to anything and anyone around her. She only saw red, and Kelly was painted in it.

"BITCH!"

Ava lunged for Kelly with a predatory roar, thunder CRASHING throughout the city and shaking the entire conservatory. She didn't care that Cameron or Erika were there. She didn't care what people thought of her in that moment. She didn't care that she wasn't acting like a 'Queen'. Ava was going to kill Kelly King in front of EVERYONE. She was going to kill her like she should have killed her a year and a half ago.

"I'M GOING TO FUCKING KILL YOU!"

 

[Berserker]

The Black Gala

Alek turned the topic of conversation to Brienne and away from Ashley and Savage, wondering how she had gotten Archer as her king.

Brienne: "We ran in the same circles, it only seemed natural. Although I much prefer ruling alone...I only enjoy sharing my bed with a man."

Alek held up his glass.

"Amen to that. Hellfire lends itself much more to ruling alone."

He took a drink, grimacing slightly.

"And are you sharing your bed with Arch?"

Brienne: "Unless of course you're not opposed to a little ménage à tois? [running her finger along his jaw] But something tells me you're not."

He slipped his free hand around to the small of her back, eyes twinkling down at her.

"I've had plenty of threesomes. But the trois has always been female."

He leaned in closer, their mouths nearly touching.

"And I'm sure we could find someone accommodating that you would approve of..."

And take to Ashley's bed this time. Fuck you, Savage.

And then, Commander Cockblock herself made the scene, pet in tow.

Ashley: "My King, don't you look dapper, as always."

Brienne stepped back as Ashley came towards him and kissed each of his cheeks. He had to admit, he was a little surprised, even if he knew this was all total bullshit. Ashley was talking to Brienne like he'd brought her around to meet the parents. But, it was better than open defiance. And the look on AJ's face as he stood there mute was priceless. He wished he'd had a picture. Ashley asked Brienne if he was keeping her entertained.

Brienne: "Very entertained. I can't imagine why you've downgraded."

He chuckled at that. God, this woman was amazing. Too bad she had landed in Europe instead of New York. He had quite a lot of things he'd have liked to add, but he thought he should at least try to act in good faith after their meeting that afternoon.

Ashley: "Well, have a great time you two."

He resisted the urge to say, "Yes, mother" and instead just smiled, like they were two friends meeting at a party, until she had gone.

Brienne: "I thought the dress code was upscale casual, not dumpster chić. Fucking hell, he must have a big dick..."

Alek leaned in to brush his lips across her collar bone.

"Not as big as some. But beggars can't be choosers, or so I'm told."

They were interrupted by John & Ava's arrival. Alek was impressed by John's transformation from bruiser to king - he had done well, and clearly had been paying attention over the years. The presence they exuded as they entered together also solidified his desire for the same for the Red Court, and was glad he had insisted that Ashley enter their own even tomorrow with him.

Brienne: "Maybe we can steal her away from Steele....ha, see what I did there?"[/quote]

He chuckled, his eyes shifting to Ava. She looked fucking amazing. Though I guess when you had the stylists and hairdressers her money could buy, it was easy to look like that. Still, that dress...he started imagining what she would look like without it.

Brienne: "Is she any good in bed?"

Alek didn't miss a beat, holding up his hand and tilting it back in forth.

"So, so. She likes it rough, and her body makes up for a lot."

He took a drink, catching her eyes over the rim of his glass.

"But she's nothing compared to you."

He slid his hand around hers, and was ready to lead her off somewhere, when the announcer's voice came over the speakers once again.

Announcer: "It appears we have some Special Guests this evening, and some Congratulations are in order. Please welcome Legacy Member of The Black Court, Stavros Cassadine and his new WIFE, Former Black Queen and Legacy Member herself, Kelly King Cassadine!"

Alek lifted his head and tilted it all the way back as he rolled his eyes.

"Oh, fuck. Me. This is unbe-fucking-lieveable."

As if they needed this shit. Cameron and Ava should have done their jobs like Haleigh and he had, and then they wouldn't have to put up with these has-beens butting into their business all the damn time.

"Someone should put both of those old fuckers out of their misery."

At which point Ava lost her shit, and was nearly diving across the room at Kelly. Well, well. Maybe the old girl had some fight in her after all.

He signaled for two more drinks and settled in for the show.

 

[Valkyrie]

The Black Gala

Ashley was keeping up her end of the bargain, putting on a show. She hated making AJ stand there and act like he didn't want to rip Alek's head off, but it was unfortunately necessary.

She complimented Brienne on looking amazing with the biggest smile she had.

Brienne: "As do you."

Ashley touched her chest and looked down at herself.

"Oh, I just threw this on. Not all of us can be as glamourous as yourself."

She asked if Alek was keeping her entertained, knowing full well just how entertained he had been making her.

Brienne: "Very entertained. I can't imagine why you've downgraded."

Any other weekend, Ashley would have punched her in the face and kicked her while she was down for good measure. But today, she just laughed, a high lilting sound.

"You're so witty, Brienne. No doubt that's why you keep Archer around. He's excellent joke material."

She told them both to have a great time, like she was sending two teenagers out on their first date, then moved AJ away from them. He interlinked his fingers with hers and her heart skipped a beat. She explained that that was part of the new "united front" agreement between her and Alek.

AJ: “Who was that with the little bear? She was dressed like she was one of the Dead Thing’s concubines.”

Ashley rolled her eyes and scoffed.

"Ugh. She probably is one. That's Brienne, the Euro Black Queen."

She lifted his hand to her lips and kissed it.

"I'm sorry, I should have introduced you. Sometimes I forget things like that."

She gave him a small smile.

"I'm pretty sure her power is fucking, at least from what I've heard. I'm not sure she does anything other than that and shop. Which explains why Alek likes her."

Her smile grew as she looked up into his face and winked.

"And just maybe he'll decide to follow her back to London...Archer is her king. Ava hates his guts. He's a pig."

The music dimmed and the lights changed, and Ava and John finally arrived. With a damn panther. Please. But at least that meant they hadn't gotten out of bed for nothing. She sighed. Probably it was a good thing she had already made her show with Alek, because after he saw this, he was going to be even more pissed of about yesterday and her coming in on AJs arm. Oh well, tomorrow he would get what he wanted, so he'd just have to deal until then.

"They actually look nice together."

She turned back to AJ, running her hands up his vest to his shoulders.

"But not as good as we do."

She smiled, with a bit of a schoolgirl flush to her cheeks.

"Want to get a drink? We should probably also talk to Bretta, the Red Queen."

Ashley scanned the room until she found her, and then pointed her out to AJ.

"Her king didn't come with her. I think they're a couple, but he pretty much will stick his cock anywhere. She runs their court."

Ashley nodded towards Cassandra.

"Rumor has it Ava and Bretta met this afternoon to negotiate a trade, Cassandra for Daniel Reed. That's him over there, talking to Zach. Remember him from Helena?"

She lowered her voice.

"We need to watch him, just in case."

There was one more unfamiliar face in the crowd.

"And Bretta's Rook has just arrived from London - Damien, over there. And you know Liam and Juliette. They'll be coming later."

She sighed.

"I wish you two could get over this distaste...I think you'd like each other. She's like us."

The announcer's voice came over the loudspeaker again, this time to announce Ava's father and Cameron's mother's arrival. And apparently they were married. She wasn't that concerned about it, and didn't even look over at them.

"Ava's going to lose her shit."

And as promised, Ashley heard Ava scream the word Bitch and turned as thunder crashed loudly in the conservatory to see her crossing the room like a bullet headed for Kelly. Ashley paused. She hoped Ava would kill Kelly, which would remove the danger from her from Haleigh's pregnancy. Though she probably should stop her, since she was making a scene. On the other hand, if Ava killed Kelly in front of everyone, that would make one hell of a power statement.

"Kick her ass, Ava!"

 

[Savage]

Hellfire - The Conservatory

AJ was going to make an effort to serve his Queen a little better, so that when the King was gone she wouldn't be totally alone as a leader. He asked who the girl with Alek was, because though he'd seen her skulking around the events like an omega wolf at a pack gathering, he didn't know who she was or if she was important, but she had to be, if Alek let himself be seen with her.

Ash: Ugh. She probably is one. That's Brienne, the Euro Black Queen. I'm sorry, I should have introduced you. Sometimes I forget things like that.

"You are not at fault. I should know these things already, but I haven't been trying to learn."

He said gently, returning her smile.

Ash: I'm pretty sure her power is fucking, at least from what I've heard. I'm not sure she does anything other than that and shop. Which explains why Alek likes her.

"He would want a concubine queen. Deep down he probably knows he isn't fit for an Alpha female, though he has tried to court you, and Haleigh. That's why he disrespects other men's wives, and women in general. Inferiority complex. So he chases these beta queens, like Brienne, to find some girl who doesn't intimidate him."

Savage replied, comfortable enough with her to share his thoughts.

Ash: And just maybe he'll decide to follow her back to London...Archer is her king. Ava hates his guts. He's a pig.

AJ leaned in a bit with a lupine grin.

"You want me to kill this archer? Then maybe the concubine queen will want the little bear to be her new 'king'."

He suggested. The lights and music changed as Ava and John arrived, with Ava's pet panther, another big house cat. His Queen said that they looked nice. AJ grunted his agreement in a way that said he wasn't particularly impressed. Ashley turned towards him and ran her hands up his chest. His hand slid around her back, ruffling through the fringe of her dress.

Ash: Want to get a drink? We should probably also talk to Bretta, the Red Queen.

"Very well."

He responded. His Queen told him that Bretta's King hadn't come with her, and that she thought he was a rake. Also, there was a rumor that Bretta had made a trade with the American Black Court. Apparently Cassandra was going to Europe and Daniel was staying here. She asked if he remembered Daniel from Helena.

"Maybe. Depends on his scent."

He told her, his gaze narrowing at Daniel for a second before looking over to a skinny runt of a man that his Queen named Damien.

Ash: And you know Liam and Juliette. They'll be coming later. I wish you two could get over this distaste...I think you'd like each other. She's like us.

"She is not like us. We are alive, and she is dead. But since you like her.... I will try..."

He stifled a growl.

"Not to drag her out to the graveyard and bury her reanimated corpse."

He finished, making a promise he wasn't entirely sure he could keep. He knew if he could, though, it'd make her happy, so he decided to do his best. They were interrupted again by the announcer, who said Stavros and Kelly had arrived.

Ash: Ava's going to lose her shit.

"Why, were they not invited?"

He asked, and then he watched as Ava tore across the Conservatory like a tornado, thunder, lightning and all. Ashley cheered Ava on, as Savage put his arm around her shoulders protectively and leaned down to speak in her ear.

"My Queen, we should move away from this fight."