Hellfire Odyssey: Ravena's world

[Persephone]

As Persephone stood hunched over the sink, the running water that pooled in the porcelain basin was tainted black, fresh blood drops falling into the water from her nose. Her eyes were shut tightly as the searing pain in her head grew in intensity, feeling like she had just been stabbed repeatedly with a hot poker. Even through the pain, Persephone put her hands under the hot water, rinsing them clean from blood.

Alek: "Seph? Are you okay"

Hearing Alek softly knock on the door, Persephone's breathing was shallow as she tried to control the panic and pain.

Alek: "Can I come in?"

Gripping the sides of the sink, a soft cry managed to escape her lips as she lifted the back of her hand to her head in an effort to somehow ease the intensifying agony. Persephone focused on her breathing as she tried to steady it and her voice.

"No...I'm fine, Alek..."

Using her wet hand, she shakily wiped the dried blood off her face once her nose bleed had stopped.

"I'm...just cleaning up.."

Swallowing hard, she could feel another wave of pain attack the front of her head causing her shut her eyes tightly and tears to fall. Gritting her teeth, Persephone lowered herself to her knees in front of the sink before sitting on the floor, holding her head with both hands.

Alek: "Seph?"

She heard the door knob start to turn, but at that point she couldn't pretend to be okay because she wasn't okay. She felt Alek's arms wrap around her.

Alek: "Baby...I'm here..."

Anything Malice had done to her before paled in comparison. It quite literally felt like someone was pulling her apart from the inside out. Sobbing out in agony, her hands gripped her head in vain. She could feel her body become weaker as she expelled more energy fighting the throes of pain. Her body laid slumped against Alek's, so close to blacking out when suddenly....the pain stopped. Inhaling labored, shallow breaths, Persephone slowly opened her wet eyes, feeling like the weight of the world was resting on her body. Everything was hazy and blurred, and her eye lids heavy as she blinked to try and clear her vision.

"What's happening....."

She finally murmured out with a cracked horse voice, the act of talking a struggle.

"..to me..."

Persephone's words trailed off while she shut her heavy eyes, tears spilled down her cheeks as she gripped onto Alek; her body trembling from a mixture of adrenaline and pain. This wasn't simply stress caused by Hellfire....Something was responsible.

 

[Berserker]

Safe House

Seph tried to say she was fine, but he didn't believe her. So he had opened the door of the bathroom - at the very least he needed to show her that she hadn't hurt him. Actually, it hurt like a bitch, but she didn't need to know that.

But what he saw when he entered...she was not fine, not by a long shot. She was in so much pain, but he didn't know what he could do for her, except try to comfort her. Her hands gripped her head and she collapsed against him, sobbing with the pain. He had never felt so helpless in his entire life.

And then he felt the tension in her body ease, and her eyes opened.

"What's happening...to me..."

The way her voice sounded...it gutted him, then gave way to anger. What indeed - it had to be something, but he felt handicapped from being able to get any closer to an answer. Like part of his vision was blocked.

"I don't know, little queen, but we will find out. I promise you."

He held her to his chest and lifted her up, carrying her back to the bed. He laid her down gently and pulled the quilt up over her, then he lay on his side next to her, propped up on one elbow, stroking her hair.

"I'll find a witch...there has to be one, somewhere, if I have to go to the other side of the world. Somebody has to hate Karen Victoria..."

He pursed his lips, looking down at her face.

"In the meantime...maybe Emiko? She knows things sometimes..."

He trailed off, grasping at straws, just wanting to fix her, and knowing it was beyond him. He exhaled slowly.

"You should stay here and rest. I'll cover for you at the mansion."

 

[Persephone]

Alek: "I don't know, little queen, but we will find out. I promise you."

Persephone exhaled while closing her eyes, wanting to believe him but knowing there was no one left on her side to help her. She had burned her bridges with the six and their allies; and their allies stretched far across the world and beyond. Going to the Queens would show weakness which would lead to punishment for not only herself, but most likely Haleigh as well. It was a lose lose situation, therefore she needed to endure it alone until she could figure out what was happening to her.

Feeling Alek lift her in his arms, Persephone kept her eyes shut as he carried her to the bed and laid her down. He pulled the quilt over her and laid down next to her, gently running his fingers through her hair as she grasped his free hand and kept her eyes focused on it. She hated feeling this way, but what she hated even more was having someone see her this way, especially Alek. She felt weak and helpless, and it was horrible.

Alek: "I'll find a witch...there has to be one, somewhere, if I have to go to the other side of the world. Somebody has to hate Karen Victoria..."

Persephone didn't immediately look at him, her eyes still cast down to their hands.

"You don't know the Victory's pull in the magick community....and if they do hate Karen, they're in Hellfire's pocket."

Her voice was soft yet unwavering as she spoke about how much clout Karen and the entire Victoria/Victory family had over the magick community throughout the world. Her daughter was Sourceress Supreme; no one would help the woman who was actively against her daughter.

Alek: "In the meantime...maybe Emiko? She knows things sometimes..."

Persephone's eyes flicked up to meet Alek's.

[firmly] "NO."

Emiko was...unique. And she had a bond with Alek, but there was NO WAY Persephone would even hint as to something being wrong with her to someone inside the Inner Circle. As far as they were all concerned, she was nursing a broken heart.

"No one inside Hellfire is to know about this; HALEIGH included. She's been through too much already....and i've already hurt her enough in here. She doesn't need the added worry or stress about me on top of everything else, okay? Not a word to anyone, Alek. Promise me."

She knew the moment Ava stepped foot inside Hellfire, Haleigh's world became that much harder. She was just starting to find her footing with the Queens after a rocky start, and Persephone wasn't going to compromise that.

Alek: "You should stay here and rest. I'll cover for you at the mansion."

Shaking her head.

"No...I'm fine."

Slowly Persephone began to prop herself up onto her elbow.

"I'll make a round...and i'll go back to my chambers after."

She refused to let them see her falter.

"You should go back...."

Her eyes lowered to the acidic burn mark on his chest causing her gaze to become pained. She gently ran her fingers along side side of the wound. She felt horrible that she hurt him; it could have literally eaten a hole right through him.

"..and get this fixed up."

Shaking her head, Persephone knew this was not what he had signed up for.

"I'm sorry. You shouldn't have to deal with this. You shouldn't be hurt because of it."

 

[Berserker]

The Safe House

Seph clasped his hand, and it was like a life line, the strength there in her grip reassuring as he started to list options, to promise to find help for her.

"You don't know the Victory's pull in the magick community....and if they do hate Karen, they're in Hellfire's pocket."

He raised an eyebrow at her.

"You underestimate the amount of shady, self-serving opprtunists I can scare up in a pinch."

He tried to lighten the mood, and gave her a reassuring smile. Then he suggested Emi as an alternative.

[firmly] "NO."

He smiled again.

"Yeah, maybe not."

"No one inside Hellfire is to know about this; HALEIGH included. She's been through too much already....and i've already hurt her enough in here. She doesn't need the added worry or stress about me on top of everything else, okay? Not a word to anyone, Alek. Promise me."

He looked down at her for a long moment. He would do anything to save her, but she was right. Anyone in Hellfire would be a liability, and showing weakness would be a death sentence regardless of what else was going on with her. So finally, and reluctantly, he nodded.

"I promise. Don't worry, they won't ever know."

At least, not from him. He told her to stay and rest, but she shook him off, saying she was fine. Which he didn't believe for a second, but she was strong, and ballsy, he'd give her that.

"Take a turn through the conservatory at least."

"You should go back...and get this fixed up."

He waved a hand in the air.

"It's nothing."

If she wouldn't let him get her help, he certainly wasn't going to draw attention to things by having someone at the mansion tend his wound.

"I'm sorry. You shouldn't have to deal with this. You shouldn't be hurt because of it."

"Darling,"

A little half laugh escaped his lips in disbelief. He squeezed the hand that held his.

"I'm exactly where I should be. You and me, together against the world."

He leaned down and kissed her forehead.

"The only thing that hurts me is being seperated from you."

 

[Persephone]

As Persephone laid in bed next to Alek, he promised he would find a witch to help her regardless of where in the world they were. But she knew better. She knew the pull the Victory girls had over the magick community. Alek tried to lighten the mood, giving her a small smile.

Alek: "You underestimate the amount of shady, self-serving opprtunists I can scare up in a pinch."

"I think i'll take my chances."

She offered in jest, giving him a weak smile in return. He then suggest Emiko to which Persephone immediately shot down. The Queens were like Great White's; the minute they smelled blood in the water they attacked. If there was even a suggestion of her being hurt or sick, she would be devoured. No one inside Hellfire needed to know what was happening with her, and Alek knew this was the smartest course of action despite wanting to find her help. He reluctantly agreed.

Alek: "I promise. Don't worry, they won't ever know."

Persephone squeezed his hand as she looked up at him knowing how hard it must be to feel helpless in a situation like this. A part of her wished he was just as in the dark as the rest of Hellfire. But the other part was so incredibly grateful to have his support and love. It made the world of difference--it made the pain almost bearable.

Pushing herself up onto her elbow, she knew she needed to get back to Hellfire before the members and Inner Circle woke for the day. She needed to do a round, show her face, make it seem like the Red Rook was simply standoffish and cold by doing her job and then disappearing into her chambers. She would make it quick, taking Alek's suggestion of going to the conservatory first so she could feed of the pants energy.

Alek: "Take a turn through the conservatory at least."

"I will....but you should go back...get this fixed.."

Her words soft and full of guilt as her fingers gently touched the skin around Alek's acidic burns. But he waved her concern off, making light of the wound.

Alek: "It's nothing."

"It's not nothing. That's a second degree burn...at least dress it and put some aloe on it."

Persephone offered as she sat fully upright now, her eyes shutting as she gripped his hand tightly in an effort to keep her emotions in check. She felt horrible--GUILTY that he had to deal with any of this.

"I'm sorry. You shouldn't have to deal with this. You should but hurt because of it."

He felt him squeeze her hand in return, letting out a small laugh which caused her to finally open her glassy eyes back up and meet with his.

Alek: "Darling, I'm exactly where I should be. You and me, together against the world. The only thing that hurts me is being seperated from you."

Persephone's brows creased in awe as her eyes were locked with his, unsure of how she found someone who made her feel so completely safe and loved in such a short period of time. Lifting her hand to his cheek, Persephone finally smiled a small smile.

"You're stuck with me."

The long necklace that held his grandfather's ring still hung on her neck, hitting low on her sternum.

"I've got the ring as proof."

Her smile grew as she ran her thumb along his cheek, sliding her hand gently across his jaw to the base of his neck. But Persephone's face soon became serious as her eyes locked with his. There was no way for her to thank him enough for making her feel the smallest bit of relief amongst a storm of pain. It meant everything.

"I love you."

She whispered softly, her hand gripping the hair at the base of his neck as her forehead rested against his. Her words came out soft again--a murmur between them.

"Don't ever forget that. Don't ever doubt it."

She needed him to know. Maybe that would be enough. Persephone pressed her lips against Alek's, her eyes closing for a moment as she allowed herself to be taken away from the hurt that had encompassed her the past week. To forget everything but them.

After a few long moments, she broke the kiss but kept their faces close.

"Thank you.."

 

[Berserker]

Safe House

Seph wanted him to get his wound tended to, but he shrugged it off.

"It's not nothing. That's a second degree burn...at least dress it and put some aloe on it."

She sat up and he tried to look nonchalant as he smiled at her.

"You just aren't going to let me be manly about this, are you?"

He kissed her cheek.

"I will put aloe on it, and a bandage. Just don't tell my girl."

But Seph started to apologize, that he was a oart of this, that he had been hurt. He told her what he felt, that he was where he should be, by her side. She touched his cheek, and smiled.

"You're stuck with me. I've got the ring as proof."

"Not just proof, a promise."

He returned her smile. Her finger ran down his jaw to the base of his neck, and he slid his hands around her waist.

"I love you. Don't ever forget that. Don't ever doubt it."

She rested her forehead against his, and he closed his eyes.

"I'll never doubt you again, I swear. I love you too. Like no one else I've ever known."

He felt her lips against his, and pulled her tighter.

"Thank you.."

"God, Seph, I love you so much...I'd do anything for you. Anything you ask."

He kissed her again, before reluctantly pulling back and getting up off the bed.

"Even going back to the mansion and spreading girly lotion all over my chest."

He dressed, watching her as he did so, and then with a final press of his lips to hers, he made his way down to the ground floor, and out to the street to catch a cab. He entered the mansion confidently. Anyone who might see him at such an early hour wouldn't see it as an unusual occurrance for the knight. Alek went dirctly to his chambers, changed his clothes, and set about checking in. No one would be able to say he wasn't doing his job. He started with security, and the control rooms, and later he would visit Emiko and Gia, who had also been left behind at the mansion. And then, perhaps, the lab.

 

[Persephone]

Alek: "You just aren't going to let me be manly about this, are you? [he relented] I will put aloe on it, and a bandage. Just don't tell my girl."

Persephone gave him a small smile as he kissed her cheek, satisfied that he would at least clean and dress it so it wouldn't get infected. Her unique physiology was dangerous at best; acids and other poisons a strong element of her biological makeup. What had happened could have quite literally killed him had he not gotten the acid off his skin when he did; it would have eaten straight through to his bone and lung. And it was in that moment that Persephone realized just how much she loved Alek, telling him as much. Telling him to never question her feelings for him and to always believe in her love for him. She needed him to know, just in case whatever was happening to her got worse.

Alek: "I'll never doubt you again, I swear. I love you too. Like no one else I've ever known."

She felt his arms wrap around her waist and pull her tightly to him, their lips meeting with a kiss. Persephone melted into his grasp, her hands moving to both sides of his face, holding him there for a long moment before breaking the kiss.

"Thank you.."

She murmured, their foreheads touching as she gently stroked his cheek with her thumb.

Alek: "God, Seph, I love you so much...I'd do anything for you. Anything you ask."

He kissed her again, Persephone feeling the overwhelming emotional build within her as she held him there. It was both amazing and terrifying at the same time. She was so happy she had found him during such a dark and turbulent time....but she was terrified that whatever was happening to her would cut it short.

Finally, Alek pulled away and Persephone let go of his face as he climbed out of bed.

Alek: "Even going back to the mansion and spreading girly lotion all over my chest."

Persephone let out a soft, short laugh as she watched him get dressed.

"It'll help."

She promised as he leaned down and gave her one last kiss. Watching as he went downstairs and exited the safe house, Persephone exhaled a long deep breath. Shutting her eyes, she rested her forehead in her hand, the dull pain creeping back once again. Absentmindedly she gripped the ring that adorned her neck, squeezing it as she let herself sit in bed motionless for a few minutes riding the shallow wave of pain. It was tolerable at least, enough for her to take a shower and clean up. About a half hour passed before Persephone finally disappeared in a tornado of winds and reappeared inside her chambers, immediately climbing into bed. It was now 6am--she would begin her rounds in an hour, starting in the conservatory.

 

[Domino]

Presidential Suite - Mandarin Oriental - NYC

:: Maxine was taking her sweet time in getting to Ahadi. Because it meant she would be one step closer to returning home, a place she wasn't sure she was ready to see. She had broken free from it, but the mansion always had a way of dragging her back into things. She sat in the sitting area of The Presidential Suite at the Mandarin Oriental. While she was offered quarters at Hellfire, Maxine liked her own space, and despite the size of the mansion, she couldn't help but feel a bit cramped. Plus, she loved luxurious hotel rooms and often thought of the stories of the people who had been in the room before her. Hotels were as passionate as she was. And at a hotel she could somehow still retain an amount of anonymity. Speaking of passion. ::

:: She sipped from the tall glass of her highball, a cigarette in her right hand. Using her own ability to generate heat, she rubbed her fingers together as if she were about to snap them with her left hand as the cigarette ignited, allowing Maxine to take a puff and exhale deeply, her eyes peering out of the window of the top floor of the building. In the distance, she made out the front doors of The Hellfire Mansion. Things had been interesting in the states, that was for sure, and she was rather enjoying all the new playmates she had found, but she was lacking direction. For a woman that liked to beat people into submission for light offenses, she was beginning to wonder if she was created to do something more. From what she'd seen so far in New York, the people infected with the virus were all the bad ass power players. Haleigh Davidoff, the ultimate fucking antihero, left tit of Malice..she stands closer to them than anyone. And then there's Jessica Marcus who would destroy the world in a matter of minutes if she wanted. ::

"Qui vivra verra."

:: Domino smirked, flicking her cigarette as she recalled the proverb in her mind. She was at a pivot point, and she was worried that she was going to have to assert herself as a power player. She knew she could beat at least 75% of those bastards if she had to, but she lacked what she needed right now, and that was power. Taking a sip of her highball, she sat the glass on the table and made her way over to the fridge, opening and mindlessly snacking. ::

:: Her mind wandered, as this was her eighth highball of the evening. On the front of the fridge, there was a picture of Evelyn Pierce and Maxine at a dinner together. She was a woman who had ALWAYS found a way to make herself valuable and invulnerable. ::

"But she LIKED people so much more than I do..."

:: Everything was up in the air. Malice seemed more...trusting of the people around her, and she particularly felt untouchable. Maxine had agreed to work WITH Diana..not FOR her..and everyday she was in those walls, she could feel the balance of power shift. She was losing her standing, and she couldn't decide if that was a good thing or a bad thing. ::

:: At that moment. ::

Ravena: "Domino, I was led to believe that you would be along in a few hours and yet Ahadi has not seen you and you were absent to the morning presentation. How long will you be unhappy with things and hold it against me? What offense have I committed that vexes you so? Do you think me a FOOL?! I will await her arrival."

:: Domino cocked a somewhat shocked and unamused eyebrow. Who did this man think he WAS?! He sounded just like her father, whom she beheaded and rolled his head down the aisle of an Inner Circle meeting for being such an asshole. Ravena should have treaded a little bit more lightly. ::

:: He was surprisingly mad. Domino's problems weren't with Ravena..they weren't even with this new Inner Circle, her problems were with herself. But he was right, she SHOULD have been there quite some time ago. But everytime she started to pack, she had poured a drink instead. She pressed her fingers on the bridge of her nose, and shook her head. She needed to leave this time. If she decided to stay on this path, she needed him on her side. ::

:: She took a shot of whiskey for courage, and hastily packed a bag with just the essentials. She knew that Ravena would have an accoutrament of luxuries and clothing. She went to the designated location, and sure enough she found herself in Ahadi, in her private chambers. She looked around, it was beautiful as ever. ::

"Feels a bit like heaven."

:: Maybe she was overthinking things. Maybe she was just being downright jealous of the power some of the people in The Inner Circle seemed to have. Maybe she was on the right path after all. Or Maybe not. ::

[To Ravena]

"I apologize profusely, Ravena. I am in my chambers now, and I will be at dinner. Again, I am sorry for being so late. And sorry, but I don't have a good enough excuse. Forgive me."[/b

 

[Lord Ravena]

Lord Ravena knew she had arrived before she finished stepping through the portal. he had bid his other guests have some fun and given his leave of Diana so she could relax and enjoy the scenery and being pampered. He was meditating when she spoke to him.

I apologize profusely, Ravena. I am in my chambers now, and I will be at dinner. Again, I am sorry for being so late. And sorry, but I don't have a good enough excuse. Forgive me.

As she finished her thought, the door opened and Lord Ravena was before her. His face was not angry, not at all. His face was CONCERNED. He stepped forward, catching Maxine's gaze.

I am not interested in excuses, or in apologies. Hold a moment...

With a wave of his hand, Lord Ravena sealed the room from any form of eavesdropping and ejected anyone foolish enough to be in attendance away forcefully. Satisfied in being alone with Domino, he continued.

Maxine, do you remember when it was just us? When we were prepared to go to war with the combined Courts of the Hellfire Club in London? I am still that person, in spite of current activities. You are not forgotten. However, I fear that you are reading so much into what I am doing that you doubt the evidence of what I have DONE. Should you need to speak with me, should you need something of me, the only way you make me angry is to cut me out, cast me into the same sea of distrust that you have rightfully placed so many. I own the fact that I can be a monster, a scoundrel, a demon, the personification of evil. But what I have not been to you is a liar.

He began to pace.

You have become restive. You are polite enough for the others, but I have been watching people since there were...PEOPLE. Even special people such as yourself, though you are particularly...special. You owe me no story, but I do ask that you repay my honesty in kind. And remember that whenever you choose, your home is in Ahadi.

He stopped pacing and faced her, placing a hand on her shoulder.

What is it that you are looking for? How can I help?

 

[Domino]

Ahadi - Maxine's Quarters

:: She exhaled, knowing he could not help himself but come. For a moment, she missed being Evelyn's "rogue" Black Knight, always on an assignment, never staying anywhere long enough to set down roots or make a real connection. Connections always ended badly for her. But she could not be the standard version of Maxine Dupont with Ravena. She couldn't fight him, she couldn't give a bitchy quip and walk out of the room. She owed him a little more than that. ::

Lord Ravena: "I am not interested in excuses, or in apologies. Hold a moment..."

:: He did his thing. ::

Lord Ravena: "Maxine, do you remember when it was just us?"

"That I do."

Lord Ravena: "When we were prepared to go to war with the combined courts of the Hellfire Club in London? I am still that person, in spite of current activities. You are not forgotten. However, I fear that you are reading so much into what I am doing that ou doubt the evidence of what I have DONE. Should you need to speak with me, should you need something of me, the only way you make me angry is to cut me out, cast me into the same sea of distrust that you have rightfully placed so many. I own the fact that I can be a monster, a scoundrel, a demon, the personification of evil. But what I have not been to you is a liar."

"Everyone is a liar, Ravena. To some degree. It's neccessary. If only to live with yourself.."

:: She said with a hint of regret. ::

Lord Ravena: "What is it that you are looking for? How can I help?"

"Ugh..Why does he have to do this right now?"

:: Maxine did not do emotions with other people lightly, if at all. Of the handful of people she had given her heart to over the years, most of them had chewed it up and spit it out. Her invulnerability was not just physical, it was mental as well. As long as she kept people out, she had the upper hand. But as she looked at Ravena, she couldn't help but to think of Evelyn. Ravena and Evelyn had been tumultuous lovers, fiery hot one minute and icy cold the next, but he always found a way back to her. Could Maxine really live with herself if she shirked this last living connection to one of the only people she ever cared about. ::

"That's the problem, your highness. Nobody can help me. And I don't know what I am looking for."

:: She swallowed in her throat for a moment and regained her icy and strong demeanor. ::

"I'm at an impasse. I feel like I came to New York on a whim...because I was so consumed by Jessica and what we experienced that I wanted to protect her. To look after her. We had both been through..some bad things, in different degrees..but I would much rather have been in stasis for decades than to have endured the sexual and physical assault I received on a daily basis. I thought there was a kinship there...but in coming here, I have realized what I have always known to be true. I am not a sheep, Ravena. I am an outsider.."

:: She shook her head and fixed a drink from the bar, taking the scotch to her lips and mindlessly flipping her lighter in her hands. ::

"Jessica's captors still live and I allowed her to be hand delivered back to them. And now I watch..as they continue to groom her as they see fit. And the longer I sit in the walls of Hellfire, I wonder how long it will be until I myself am either groomed..or killed."

:: Sipping. ::

"I won't be domesticated again. I CAN'T be..and that poses problems for you."

:: She flashed an almost uncomfortable for her face looking smile. ::

"I am sorry that you believe me to think less of you. That's not the case.."

[pausing]

"I'm just being nauseatingly...feminine. Asking myself questions. Where do I fit in? Blah blah blah.."

:: Maxine sat down on the bed once again. ::

"I respect Malice and what it is that she does..that's why I came here in the first place. But I hung up my ball gown in London, Ravena. I can't play these games on these terms for much longer, and it's left me wondering if I should.."

[hesitantly]

"Get into business for myself... What was done to me...so far? It has been for nothing. I left a world where I was a queen to be a half breed mocked by people so smug in their prowess they fail to sense the true level of my depravity and the lengths I'm willing to go to ensure my survival."

:: smirking with a half laugh. ::

"And perhaps it's time I remind them?"

:: Maxine rose, this time lighting a cigarette. To anybody else, it would have been highly innappropriate to Ravena that she was smoking in his palace, but he knew her. It was habit. ::

"I haven't made any committment to any idea just yet Ravena..and before I do, rest assured..I plan on having a conversation with Diana. I DO owe her that at the very least, as much as I love a bloody campaign. I trust you as much as I always have...but I don't much trust those around me, and while I'm into group play, I'm not much into pack mentality with a sadistic edge. I will NEVER be a sorority sister, and I am not going to BOW to anybody unless they goddamn deserve it."

:: She placed her hand in his. ::

"You will be one of those who deserves a bow."

:: Maxine softened for a moment. She didn't like being this honest, but he knew something was wrong. He was The White King and she had seen his power in a way that the others definitely HADN'T. Maxine had no CHOICE but to be honest. The walls of Ahadi were white, but they had been once been stained in blood. ::

"Please...Ravena. I need to walk this path by myself. I am relieved to know that you are there for me. But I don't need ANYTHING from you. What you've given me, and not the gifts...has been enough. In the months and damn near a year that Evelyn has been gone, to have you here as a reminder of her..it DOES bring me peace."

:: Looking at Ravena. ::

"So promise me you'll let me see...whatever this is that I am going through, by myself?"

:: pausing. ::

"And if I go too far..can you promise that it will be YOU that will strike me down..or..ya know..turn me into a vampire and plot a fantastic escape for me?"

 

[Lord Ravena]

Children. They will never simply talk about what they want, about their motivations, about things. Lord Ravena listened as she alternatively softened to him and hardened as she wished to reassert an independence he never denied.

She placed her hand in his and he squeezed it gently. She was a lovely child...really...but he was not the proper...gender to lay with her. Perhaps he should CHANGE genders, experience a woman in that way again? Maxine's strength and chaos was like a flame in which Lord Ravena very much enjoyed looking to.

I'm into group play, I'm not much into pack mentality with a sadistic edge. I will NEVER be a sorority sister, and I am not going to BOW to anybody unless they goddamn deserve it."

:: She placed her hand in his. ::

"You will be one of those who deserves a bow."

:: Maxine softened for a moment. ::

"Please...Ravena. I need to walk this path by myself. I am relieved to know that you are there for me. But I don't need ANYTHING from you. What you've given me, and not the gifts...has been enough. In the months and damn near a year that Evelyn has been gone, to have you here as a reminder of her..it DOES bring me peace."

:: Looking at Ravena. ::

"So promise me you'll let me see...whatever this is that I am going through, by myself?"

:: pausing. ::

"And if I go too far..can you promise that it will be YOU that will strike me down..or..ya know..turn me into a vampire and plot a fantastic escape for me?"

Lord Ravena inhaled sharply. She needed to hear what he had to say next. He placed his hand on her cheek and held her there.

Maxine, I practised...extremely dark magic to commune with Evelyn after her death and she wanted two things. To be avenged and for you to be OK. I made a vow to her, and my heart, as it beats, will see it through. Your fate lies with me, in life, in death, or in un-life. Your enchanted door to your wing here remains, and I will always be only a beat away.

He let her cheek go and kissed her hand he still held in his. He then chuckled.

Thanks for indulging my questions. Consider THAT your punishment for your wildly inappropriate tardiness. I will now take my leave. Your consorts await you, they will rejoice at your arrival; the bruises all healed on their own! I await your attendance at the banquet.

Lord Ravena took his leave, stepping immediately over to inspect the state of the Banquet Hall and the food being prepared PERSONALLY. Satisfied with what he had seen, he returned to his private rooms and prepared for the banquet, which was fast approaching. As the hour came to be, he was dressed by his attendants and escorted to where Diana was dressed beautifully an in a style that showed their synergy by being independent yet well matched. He escorted her to the hall, by now filled with thousands in attendance who all stood as they made their entrance and were seated at the head of the dais. Any time now, the others should be getting into place to be escorted into the hall and seated.

 

[Black Widow]

Ahadi

The morning had been filled with pomp and circumstance for the White Knight. Haleigh drew no extra attention to herself. She discreetly watched the others, some who were quite enjoying themselves, some who were less than pleased.

All observations were noted, as she had been doing for weeks, researching and developing intel files on her new 'friends'. Most of all she watched Lord Ravena, but when it came to him, she didn't try to be sly. If he realized she was scrutinizing him, good. He ought to know there was someone on the White Court who wasn't under his spell.

After the festivities, she left the platform for the beach, but she didn't spend much time studying Heidi's gift. She strolled on past it, her attendant Jordan in tow. The surf washed over her ankles, rinsing the sand from her feet and filling the air with noise. Seagulls cried relentlessly overhead, but even that didn't disturb Haleigh, who was sinking deep into her own thoughts.

Diana: When we return from this trip, MorningStar and Bishop will be KILLED on my order. If you refuse, or FAIL? Well...after the rest of the White Court handles that, YOU will be dealt with.

"Sounds like fun, can't wait."

Haleigh had said, her sarcasm unmistakable. Now she was alone, able to really consider her options, all of which were abysmal.

If she refused, she knew she'd be destroyed, probably permanently. She didn't fear death, not even if it was a slow, cruel, painful end. She wasn't even afraid that she might not be able to project herself into another body. And then she remembered her little pep rally after the Rose mission, and her mother's threat of something worse than death. She wouldn't put it past her mother to keep her alive and suffering.

If she failed, it would only be because she let Delilah kill her. She knew, without a doubt, that Delilah could do it, after all, there was a precedence with her killing of Bishop. And if Haleigh forced her to use deadly force to defend herself, it was practically a done deal. But then there was another precedence too. Delilah didn't handle guilt well at all. Haleigh flashed back to the day she pulled Delilah from the sea and tried to revive her. The memory brought guilt and grief with it, and discouraged Haleigh from believing that dying at Delilah's hands was in any way a good idea. Additionally, her mother seemed to be wise to Haleigh's initial impulse to throw the fight. She'd already warned Haleigh that a body swap wasn't going to get her out of this. So even if Delilah called in reinforcements and somebody with a harder grudge did the dirty work, Haleigh doubted her mother would accept that outcome.

If she succeeded, it meant, at the very least, killing Maxim and Delilah both. She didn't particularly want to kill Max, but she could if she had to. There was no glory in killing a flatscan, but at least there was enough enmity between them that Haleigh could rationalize cutting him down. That wouldn't be too difficult. It was the idea of killing Delilah that was excruciating. Haleigh could still remember what it felt like to go with Delilah and Max to face Badiane, knowing Delilah was going to die to save her daughter, and all the while, Haleigh had desperately tried to fight it. She could still hear Delilah, asking her to help raise Alexia after she was gone. The memory made her heartsick, and she had to redirect her thoughts, quickly. She recalled what the Black Queen had told her: It was merciful to kill them, and put them out of their misery. That didn't really make it any easier, but it had a certain dulling effect.

Having weighed them all now, she knew which option she'd end up choosing. There was only one that she could justify. She had suffered for weeks now, and had bought them as much time as she could. Either they were ready now, or they weren't, but Haleigh could no longer drag this game out. She made her way back to her suite, and began killing time until the dinner party. When evening approached, she showered and changed into a strapless, floor length gown that was as white as milk. She reflected on the last time she was actually happy for an event of this kind. It had been in Blaze's honor, and Haleigh had just come back from the Avengers mission. It seemed like yesterday, and a million years ago at the same time.

Jordan: Princess, are you ready?

His voice snapped her back to reality. It was time to shove the broken shards of her soul back down again. There was no use in dreading her future decision while she was on this trip. At the end, as always, she'd do what she had to, and she'd face the horror then. Besides, anything could happen between now and the end of this trip, and the slightest change could create a ripple effect that altered everything. She nodded and took Jordan's arm, allowing herself to be escorted to the banquet hall.

 

[Enchantrah]

Helena made her way down to the banquet hall dressed in an elegant red gown appropriate for the hot summer climate of Ahadi. As she entered the hall, the chiffon of her dress flowed behind her with an ethereal flare as she floated through the mass of guests and directly to the bar. If she were to be able to endure another ceremony of appreciation, she'd need a lot of champagne and a few martini's thrown in as well.

"Grey Goose, up, with a twist."

She ordered as she ran her red manicured nails through her loose wavy curls, glancing around the room. She noted Scion had arrived with her man servant looking rather grim. She usually looked terrible, but today seemed to be a particularly daunting day for the princess. It made Helena smirk with perverse pleasure. Perhaps the gravity of the situation had finally crushed Scion's little world, making her realize that she couldn't navigate BOTH sides. She would have to kill her former friends and family in order to continue to stay in Diana's good graces in stead of buying them time. And she would have to do it SOON otherwise Diana would kill her and start all over.

Bartender: "Madame."

Turning back to the bartender, he presented her with her martini and bowed his head respectfully. Picking up her martini, Helena leaned against the bar and took a long sip as she continued to 'people watch' awaiting the event to begin.

 

[Mystique]

Alexis stood in front of the floor length mirror looking at her dress with a sigh. Another formal gather to celebrate more MysTech bullshit that ultimately ruined innocent peoples lives--including her own. That was the thing about Hellfire, they loved patting themselves on the back in the most grandiose way. It was now Alice's turn to get recognized for her years of work. Alexis had no issues with Alice, the woman mostly stuck to herself. But did Alexis want to spend the night celebrating her accomplishments? Not particularly. But it was one step closer to leaving Ahadi and getting to Europe, which was one step closer to Helena dying by her hand.

So for now, Alexis left her suit and headed down to the ballroom.

Upon entering, there was already a mass of people that had gathered. She spotted Helena afar, already drinking. Haleigh was nearby with her servant as well. Alexis moved and weaved between people like a shadow, disappearing into the mass until finally finding a clear spot to stand off to the side. Taking her phone out, she began to look over the security details of Hellfire Club noting that Berserker was holding down the fort as well as she expected him to. He was in dire need of proving his worth again to Helena, so obviously he was making sure nothing went wrong at Hellfire while the Queens were gone. Aside from that everything seemed quiet, which meant the six were still sniffing each others asses like a bunch of lost puppies in regards to what to do about the situation. Rolling her eyes, if she didn't hate them so much she would feel sorry for how pathetic they all looked.

Server: "Drink?"

"Sparking water."

The server presented her a flute of sparkling water with a lime. Giving him a nod of thanks, she took a sip and quietly waited for the banquet to begin.

 

[Berserker]

The Hellfire Mansion

Alek stopped at his quarters on his way back through the mansion. He sat down in a chair, giving himself a moments rest before returning to his duties. He had passed Seph as he had passed the conservatory on his rounds, where she curtly informed him she had finished her checks and was returning to her room. He had said very little, making sure to seem aloof and a bit impatient with her, as if he was eager to move on. Which was the last thing he wanted to do. He took this moment of rest to run over the things burning through his mind. Ways to help her. Most futile, if not all. He couldn't have come this far, waited this long, risked so much, just to lose her now. He rose finally, and noticed something out of place on his bedside table. A small amber figurine sat next to the one Emiko had given him. It was a doe.

He picked it up, ran it between his fingers. He heard a telltale *POP* behind him.

Emiko: "Surprise!"

In spite of everything, Alek smiled, turning towards her. She was floating in the air, grinning at him. He held up the deer.

"Did you bring me this?"

Emiko clapped her hands.

Emiko: "Panda was lonely. Now he has a friend. She's very pretty."

"Thank you. What it's made of...it's important where I come from. Valuable."

He smiled at her. She disappeared with another *POP* then reappeared standing in front of him.

Emiko: "Emi is also panda's friend."

She threw her arms around his waist and hugged him.

Emiko: "Panda can be happy now."

"Yes, I'm your friend too."

He patted her arm.

"Emiko, I want you to check around the mansion, make sure none of the security guards are shirking their duties while the queens are away. If any are, you can take them to play with."

Emiko's face scrunched up into mock seriousness and she stood at attention, throwing him a silent salute.

"I have something special to show you next time...but your toy needs to be alive. And conscious."

Emiko clapped her hands and nodded vigorously.

"Good girl."

She beamed and twirled around, popping out in the middle of her second turn. But he could hear her voice linger...

Emiko: "I can't be bought, but I can be stolen with a glance. I'm worthless to one, but priceless to two. What am I?"

Alek sighed. He liked the girl, but she was crazy as hell, and trying to understand her was a sure path to a headache. He left the room once again, making his way to the White wing, where security had told him the white bishop could be found.

"Gia, just checking in. Everything going alright with your duties, I trust? Any word from your people about the Six?"

The network the Nefarias had in the criminal world was useful as informants, and the movements of the Six were something he wanted to keep tabs on.

 

[Persephone]

The Conservatory

After returning to the Hellfire Club from the safe house, Persephone did her obligatory round that she was scheduled for before returning to her suite to lay down. Being around the flora and fauna helped her energy levels a bit, but still, all she wanted to do was lay down and rest. It was as if her body couldn't hold the energy before being sucked from her. It was about an hour into resting when she received a text message from Gia asking her if she could watch Perle for a bit while she conducted some family business. Being the animal lover that she was, Persephone of course said yes. Not to mention, watching Perle might put Persephone in Diana's good graces...or at least keep her out of the cross hairs for another day.

After picking up Perle, she headed back up to the conservatory to the large grassy area that sat next to a coy pond. Sitting casually near the pond in a black yoga pants and a red track jacket , Persephone smiled as little Perle stalked up to the edge of the water, peaking her head over the edge at the fish.

"Careful sweet girl, you don't want to swim with them."

Persephone spoke gently as Perle looked back at her and took a few step backwards away from the edge. With her unique ability to control and communicate with animals, she knew just how curious little Perle was. She wanted to see everything and explore the entire mansion. She even learned that the mischievous little kitten managed to sneak away from Gia a few times giving the White Bishop a fright just because she was so curious. But with Persephone, Perle wouldn't be sneaking off anywhere or getting into any trouble--the kitten listening to her obediently.

As Perle began to hop around the grass chasing a butterfly, Persephone decided to take this rare chance of down time to give Haleigh a call. They were supposed to meet before she jetted off to Ahadi and Europe, but they never met up. Partly because Persephone was feeling sick, but the other because Haleigh wasn't in the mansion when everyone left for the airport. Taking out her iPhone, she hit Haleigh's contact number and put the phone to her ear; it didn't take long for her sister to answer.

"Hey."

Persephone put on her best 'normal' voice while tiredly laying on her side, propping herself up on her forearm. She softly smiled as Perle jumped up and and plopped clumsily on her back in an attempt to catch the bug.

"We didn't get a chance to meet up before you left....How's everything going so far?"

Perle quickly ran over to Persephone after seeing her lay down on the grass, rubbing her body lovingly up against the Rook's stomach while purring. She gently stroked the kitten appeasing her need for attention.

 

[Black Widow]

Ahadi -- Banquet Hall

Some of their party arrived, but they were still waiting on the guest of honor, and the Black Queen, among others. Jordan offered to get her something to drink, and so she asked for more bourbon. He brought back the best Ahadi had to offer, and she gave him a wan smile in return for a glassful. He knew enough by now to keep the bottle close at hand. She was halfway through draining her glass when a familiar ring tone filled Haleigh's head. She rose from her seat slowly, gathering the lower portion of her gown in her left hand so she could peel away from the loudest of the pre-party buzz.

Seph: Hey.

Haleigh let go of her dress, taking a deep draw from her glass and lifting her left hand now to her ear. It was so good to finally hear a voice that belonged to someone who didn't want to kill her.

"Hey, you okay?"

She asked, unable to keep the concern from her tone. Her sister had looked ragged at the meeting yesterday morning, there was no denying that.

Seph: We didn't get a chance to meet up before you left....How's everything going so far?

Haleigh glanced around the room. She didn't care if anyone was listening. Soon enough, she'd prove where her loyalties lied.

"Not so great, to be honest."

It was a deep relief to know her sister was still on her side, despite it all. There was at least someone who wouldn't belittle her.

"Bishop caught up with me, made me late for my flight. My Queen wasn't so pleased about it. I've been given orders to kill him, and Delilah too, when I return from my little vacation."

She didn't have to explain what a difficult task that would be. Seph knew as much about the Six's firepower as Haleigh did.

 

[Masque]

Hellfire Mansion – White Parlour





Before Diana left, she had charged Gia with the care of Perle. So Gia enlisted the help of a servant with SEVERE arachnophobia – she made it her business to know things about the servants here at Hellfire – to help her move Hayley’s terrarium into the White Princess’ suite for the time being. She thought that that was somehow fitting [moving Hayley into Haleigh’s suite]. Gia couldn’t help but laugh as the poor guy looked as if he were about to wet his pants. “Careful! Your arms are shaking way too much. Do you WANT to break the cage by droppping it?!” The poor schmuck shook even more in terror – and fear. Gia was annoyed now. She briefly considered taking the lid of the terrarium and sticking the guy’s head inside, but then she decided against it simply because she didn’t have the time – nor did she have the energy – to clean up his piss that would no doubt be EVERYWHERE if she did that. “OKAY! Stop! Set it down GENTLY…” Well, turned out that the boy WAS useful. He gently lowered his side of the terrarium to the ground. Gia lowered her end to the floor and straightened up. “Well, that’s that. You’re free—“ With that, the boy took off like a bat out of hell. Gia stared after him. “…to go.” Gia sighed and looked at Perle, who was lounging on Scion’s couch. Gia didn’t feel comfortable at all letting Perle out of her sight, so she took the kitten everywhere she went. “For FUCK’S sake. If you can’t handle jobs from members, then you shouldn’t even be working here!” Perle mewled and raised a paw in the air as if in complete agreement. Once Hayley was settled in her new [temporary] digs, with some crickets, flies, and some cockroaches, Gia and Perle made their way back to her own chambers.

The queens and king left, along with their entourage, and Gia went back to her normal routine – along with some new responsibilities while they were away. That was fine with her. They all had to do their part in keeping house.

One day, after her early morning training session – she was starting to get used to these early mornings! – in which she brought Perle along to watch some action, though the little furball seemed unimpressed by her training whereas Red and Yellow were excited by it before screaming in that terrifying tone and vanishing into the shadows, Gia and Perle walked into her chambers and she found a manila envelope addressed to her on the coffee table. She opened it and pulled out a photo of one Cassandra Johnson, AKA Ruby. Ah yes. She had been meaning to go down and make a visit to Mr. Benjamin Lewis. She pulled out her phone and texted one of her people. She had people ALL over the Six.

Get me everything you’ve got on Cassandra Johnson AKA Ruby. I’m wanting to do some research on her.

She wanted to know everything there was to know about Ruby before she visited Gorgon. After all, knowledge WAS power.

Once, after she’d seen to her responsibilities, she finally visited her father. She had stayed away for the time being because there had been too much scrutiny and way too many rumours over HER involvement in her father’s affairs and she knew that there were picketers outside the prison where her father was just WAITING to beat her down and she just didn’t need that kind of shit on top of everything else. So she had stayed away. Before she left, she had texted Persephone asking if she wanted to look after Perle for a bit since there waas no way in hell that she was going to bring the sweet kitten to the prison. Besides, she felt confident that Persephone would take great care of her as she could communicate with Perle on a level that Gia never could. So Persephone came and got the kitten who immediately rubbed against the goddess’ ankles purring all the while. Gia smiled and went off to visit her father. It was a good visit, with her proudly telling her father about everything that the organization had accomplished while he was gone. He was proud of her too, but he cautioned her to be careful as he didn’t want his ”baby girl to be in the crosshairs like he was.” Gia also told him about her inheriting the White Bishop position and she caught him up on the scoop at Hellfire which then turned awkward when he got THAT LOOK when she mentioned both Helena and Diana. Ewww!!! It was a good thing that both queens were away or else Gia didn’t know how she would face either of them.

As much as Gia wanted it to be a SHORT visit – she felt uncomfortable around her father’s fellow prisoners; it was like they were LEERING at her – it actually turned out to be longer than she thought it would be. Stepping out into the mid-day sun, Gia climbed into the waiting Town Car, smoothed down her dress, and laid her head back and sighed. Though she loved her father, and it felt so good to see him, visiting him in prison had been a draining experience.

Arriving back at Hellfire, Gia entered and headed straight for her chambers. She didn’t stop to speak to ANYBODY. She just needed to decompress from her visit. Upon entry to her chambers, she found a stack of papers and photos on her coffee table.

Ah, the information on Cassandra Johnson. Great!

She gathered it all up and headed for the White Parlour where she ordered a crispy chicken and bacon ranch wrap and esconced herself into a quiet corner of the room. There, she began to read up on Cassandra.

It was some interesting reading. Gia looked at her photo again. She was extremely GORGEOUS. You’d never think that this girl would even be old enough to tangle with the Nazis…but here she was. Locked up and experimented on for YEARS. She had definitely seen the depths of human depravity and yet, she still managed to keep her innocence. She had been in a long-term relationship with Benjamin Lewis but it ended suddenly when he betrayed her in a big way. Now THAT surprised Gia. She sifted through the various photos that came with Cassandra’s information until she found a photo of both Benjamin and Cassandra that was RECENT. It showed them kissing each other passionately right on the streets of New York.

*chuckles*: “Looks like it’s not quite over…for either of them.”

No wonder Kelly had him banished to the catacombs prison. Oh, she was going to have so much fun with this.

*talking to herself*: “Now let’s see what Miss Ruby has been up to.”

Server: “Here you go, Miss Nefaria. Your wrap.”

*distractedly*: “Thank you.”

Gia took the plate without making eye contact, so involved was she in her reading, and took a hearty bite. Cassandra had been naughty herself. Gia had found some audio files and plugged them into her phone using the supplied earphones and discovered that the baby of the Six had been going rogue. She had been sneaking out at night looking for Benjamin. At least, for a few nights she had been looking for him. Apparently she was worried about his well-being.

Girl’s got it bad…

She made a mental note to take pictures of Gorgon in his current situation and then send them on to Cassandra, anonymously of course, just to screw with her.

I want to corrupt the baby.

She read on and discovered that the Six weren’t too pleased with her interaction with Benjamin either, hence her sneaking out at night. Gia couldn’t help but be impressed by that. Ruby had also met a new guy in the meantime. A Kevin Beckett, Beck, for short; his code name was Goliath, formerly Onyx. He was helping her with her feedings. There were pictures of the two together, though those ones were more innocent than the ones with Cassandra and Benjamin. These ones showed both Ruby and Goliath running together in Central Park, grabbing some coffee together afterwards, etc, etc. Just friendly stuff. Gia was already planning on twisting this around to make it look like Ruby was moving on. However, an idea was forming in her mind.

She’s cute, sweet, naïve, INNOCENT. I want to corrupt the baby.

Gia already knew that Diana had her eye on Ruby, but there was nothing wrong with doing a little harmless reconnaissance while the queens were away. She was so involved in her research that she didn’t realize that Alek had come in looking for her until he was at her table.

Alek: "Gia, just checking in. Everything going alright with your duties, I trust? Any word from your people about the Six?"

Gia jumped a bit, startled.

“Oh, Alek! I didn’t even hear you come in.”

She nodded her head.

“Yes, of course. My duties are just fine. With regards to the Six, I’m actually doing some research on Cassandra Johnson right now.”

She handed him the recent photo of Ruby and Gorgon.

“I’m planning on paying a visit to Gorgon later to find out more about the ‘baby’ of the Six. They apparently had a prior relationship. He might have something useful we can use.”

A smile spread across her lips. It was quite obvious that the sadistic side of her couldn’t wait to get her hands on the new-ish member of the Six.

“From what I’ve been reading on, it seems as if she’s growing ‘disillusioned’ by the Six…but that’s probably due to her being in hot water with them with regards to that photo there.”

Gia nodded her head at the photo in his hand. She looked up at Alek.

“For a few nights, at least, she’s been sneaking out at night, asking her contacts in New York about Gorgon, the naughty girl. Not to mention that she seems to be on the outs with Nicolas King for some reason. I have always thought that they had a great friendship.” *sarcastically*: “Pity about that.”

Gia had spies everywhere…and they weren’t just Red and Yellow. She liked to keep track of her opponents. After all, knowledge WAS power. And her spies have been telling her that it looked as though Cassandra was walking a FINE LINE with the Six.

 

[Persephone]

Persephone could hear the concern in Haleigh's voice as she answered, her sister quickly asking if she was okay.

Haleigh: "Hey, you okay?"

Persephone kept her voice even and calm, masking the gravely tired tone.

"Yeah, i'm fine. We didn't get a chance to meet up before you left....How's everything going so far?"

Haleigh: "Not so great, to be honest."

Persephone's brows furrowed as she pushed herself upright into a sitting position. It was now HER turn to be concerned. Little Perle lifted her head and mewed as Persephone scooped her up instinctively, holding her in her lap.

"What happened? What's wrong?"

Haleigh: "Bishop caught up with me, made me late for my flight. My Queen wasn't so pleased about it.

Narrowing her eyes, there was no way in hell that Bishop--a flatscan--would have been able to get the drop on Haleigh without an extensive plan and preparation. And the fact that he had? It meant whatever he did was bad. Bad enough to stall Haleigh, and bad enough to make Malice aware AND angry about it. It was always one step forward and two steps back with Malice....just when Perle put Haleigh on solid ground, the ground quaked.

"Fucking asshole...."

Persephone growled out through clenched teeth, thinking of the multiple ways she could make Bishop suffer a long and painful death.

Haleigh: "I've been given orders to kill him, and Delilah too, when I return from my little vacation."

Sighing out, Persephone shut her eyes and lowered her head into her hand; the dull headache from earlier become more prominent as Haleigh explained the grim situation. Persephone had no qualms about killing anyone that got in the way of hers, Haleigh's, or Alek's survival. She would strike them all dead if she had too. However Persephone knew how hard this was on Haleigh. She put up a front--shut down her emotions even-- but in the back of her sisters mind she thought somehow she would be able to save them. To buy them time enough for their survival. It was a fools dream...one that Diana was finally calling a bluff on.

"Bishop will be dead before you get back if I can track his ass down."

Persephone warned as she pinched the bridge of her nose with frustration and pain. She wished Haleigh didn't have to feel the agony and guilt over attacking and killing the six. Persephone understood that feeling....she felt it from Ava before shutting her emotions out.

"We know how Delilah thinks and we know her firepower. It won't be easy, but it isn't impossible. We get her alone and we hammer her down....and if you need me to deliver the kill strike, I will."

She would kill them all if she had to. Haleigh wouldn't die for them. Not for the people who didn't fight harder for her.

"I'm not losing you. To Diana or anyone else, do you hear me?"

Persephone knew that the moment they attacked Morningstar and killed her, it would be an all out war. But she also knew that if Haleigh DIDN'T go after Delilah, Malice would go through every single one of Haleigh's clones until Haleigh complied. Resting her elbow on her knee, Persephone shut her eyes as she held her head; Perle mewing with concern as she rubbed her nose against Persephone's forearm.

"You didn't come this far to die now..."

 

[Berserker]

The Hellfire Mansion - The White Lounge

Alek stood next to the table where Gia was sitting.

“Oh, Alek! I didn’t even hear you come in.”

"Good thing I wasn't trying to kill you, then."

He glanced down at his tablet, viewing Gia's list of duties. He asked her how things were going with her assigned tasks, and the Six.

“Yes, of course. My duties are just fine. With regards to the Six, I’m actually doing some research on Cassandra Johnson right now. I’m planning on paying a visit to Gorgon later to find out more about the ‘baby’ of the Six. They apparently had a prior relationship. He might have something useful we can use.”

He looked at a photo taken during Gorgon's recent failure.

"Before he was brought to us he was a MysTech operative, that's where he met Ruby. He was under orders to capture her for MysTech. And now he should be capturing her for Malice. This little interlude between them in Central Park is what landed him in the doghouse with Talisman. Let me know what he says."

The man was too new to be trusted, and not a member of the inner circle to boot, despite Talisman's apparent faith in him. She hadn't killed him yet, at least, and had left him in charge of the black court in her and Amanda's absence. Highly unusual.

“From what I’ve been reading on, it seems as if she’s growing ‘disillusioned’ by the Six…but that’s probably due to her being in hot water with them with regards to that photo there. For a few nights, at least, she’s been sneaking out at night, asking her contacts in New York about Gorgon, the naughty girl. Not to mention that she seems to be on the outs with Nicolas King for some reason. I have always thought that they had a great friendship.” *sarcastically*: “Pity about that.”

"If she's so interested in finding him, he should have no problem bringing her in. And any tension in the Six is a good omen for us. They don't seem to have made any headway with regards to their divisiveness."

He pushed the photo back across the table towards her.

"Let me know if you find out anything else."

He paused, then added.

"And try to be more alert. We don't want our shortness in staff making us vulnerable."

He turned and left the room, exiting the white wing and slipping into an elevator headed towards the Conservatory.