The Hellions - Death of A Queen

[Seer]

<< FLASH! >>

<< For countless years, we've watched as The Six, in their many carnations has battled the evils that threaten to destroy the world. We've seen them take down global threats, goddess level sorcerers, and sometimes, each other. Their story is truly one for the ages. But as we look across the mainstream universe, one will find that while the trials and tribulations of The Six and those fortunate or unfortunate enough to be in their lives is indeed legendary, it is not completely unique. The universe is filled with others like The Six, their stories differing only in the choices they've made when faced with similar situations. Some of these people are not heroes...some of them are even considered MONSTERS. But as we've seen, monsters often have their reasons. >>

<< Across the pond, among the foggy, rolling green hills, members of The European Hellfire Club are making their way to pay their respects to the recently MURDERED Black Queen, Evelyn Pierce. The scandal and nature of her death have sent shockwaves throughout an already fractured institution. Whispers of a power struggle within the club's Inner Circle have throttled already shaky relationships and alliances. Many members feel that the current leadership of The Hellfire Club has grown stagnant, more concerned with appearances and titles rather than moving forward with an actual agenda. In the last several years, there has been a flux of new, younger appointments on the courts, an effort from The Inner Circle to appear to be trying to move in a new direction, however, not much forward movement has been made. The Hellfire Club was built on the idea of controlling Europe through the shadows, to increase it's members wealth and influence, to be able to act outside of the law with the force of an army, controlled by the few. The rumors of a power struggle are not neccessarily untrue. These new members are growing tired of waiting in the wings, of being in the shadows and because of their legendary and brutal reputations, waiting is not in their nature. The coming days will most certainly separate the meak...from the mighty! >>

<< FLASH >>

<< London's countryside is a vast and beautiful landscape, with rolling green hills, dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views. Tucked far enough away from the prying eyes of traveling tourists and nosy residents of the hustling and bustling metropolis of London lies The Hellfire Estate. A large and intimidating castle reminiscent of the days of King Arthur, this location serves as the headquarters for the club as well as the living quarters for several of The Hellfire Club's most important members. The grounds are sprawling, complete with a garden maze and exquisite topiary, this place is truly fit for a king...or a queen. From this palatial estate the greatest of all events for The Hellfire Club transpire, however, today, there is a far more somber feel in the air...for some. >>

<< From all over Europe, members of The Inner Circle are gathering to pay their respects in a private wake, held especially for The Hellfire Club's Black Queen, Evelyn Pierce. One of the longest standing members of The Inner Circle, Evelyn was responsible for many of the recent appointment to the clubs, even when they were not a part of her court. Her ties and alliances within The Hellfire Club were as strong as her rivalries and conflicts. She was a Queen to be remembered, a Queen to be revered...and to the many who tried and failed, a Queen NOT TO BE MESSED with...so her apparent MURDER has caused QUITE a bit of suspicion within the club. The Kings and Queens of The Courts are just as hellbent at finding out who is responsible for Evelyn's death as they are scrambling to find her replacement. Evelyn held an impeccably strong court with no Black King by her side and whoever is to take her place will hold a considerable amount of power. If the new leader of The Black Court were to attempt to FORMALLY call into question the leadership of the other courts..the younger, newer members would systematically vote to remove them from power. Some feel that the only other option would be to ELIMINATE the younger members BEFORE they stake claim to ANY of the courts, or before they get their OWN ideas of MURDER and BETRAYAL. >>

<< For now, The White King and Queen are keeping their distance from the Hellfire Estate as well as the body of Evelyn Pierce safe, in an effort to gather more information, though of course they have their own eyes and ears there to watch from a distance. This leaves the court's Red Queen, Rebecca Everhart to host the wake as well as the next few days of business to come...but The Red Queen has her own agenda. As the second longest ruler of The Inner Circle, Rebecca has seen MANY people come and go, some willingly and some...by other means. Cunning by nature, Rebecca is SURE that there are those within The Inner Circle who seek to turn the monarchy on it's HEAD, and she KNOWS they will not do it by formal voting. She remains at The Hellfire Estate to show her strength in time of adversity as well as to let anyone who MIGHT be coming for her, that she doesn't run and hide from children! >>

<< The Hellfire Estate is opening it's doors to all branches throughout the world in remembrance of The Black Queen. The evening starts with a mixer before moving into a formal dinner in The Great Hall, where members are encouraged to speak on their memories of Evelyn. After that, the castle belongs to it's members, who are free to stay at estate to explore everything The Hellfire Club has to offer, from billiards to a walk in the easily confusing garden maze. the walls of the estate hold many secrets, not to mention secret passages...and of course, nobody can forget that there is now an open spot to RULE The Black Court, ripe for the right person, or the person who has the right PLAN. >>

<< Our journey starts now. And so...we watch. >>

 

[Avalanche]

Hellfire Estate - English Countryside

:: It was incredibly dark in Archer Fairchild's room at The Hellfire Estate, thanks to the large black velvet floor to ceiling curtains that draped the old world windows. It may have been for the fact that Archer was almost always nursing a hangover of some sorts that he preferred the dark, but he liked to think it reminded him of when he was a child, running wild on the streets of London at night. He hadn't been happy as a child, but whenever Archer was alone he found himself thinking of the days when he was just a boy...before he grew into the monster that he was now. ::

"Ugh...grrr..."

:: Archer's naked body rolled around the bed, draping his black silk sheets over his body as he went. For most, silk sheets in the winter...in ENGLAND for that matter was a death wish, but Archer quite literally CRAVED the cold, and many would say he DID have a death wish. As he rolled around the unbelievably large bed, trying to will himself back to sleep, a bright light filled the corner of his room, by his nightstand. It was the brilliant hum of his phone. He grumbled as he rolled to the end of the bed. ::

"Bloody WANKERS...I'm sleepin' for chrissakes!"

:: The remnants of his almost cockney accent liked to come forward whenever he was tired, angry or excited. Begrudgingly he looked at his phone which was filled with an insane amount of text messages that offered both business AND pleasure, as well as several missed calls and texts from members of The Hellfire Club inquiring as to whether or not he would be attending the night's events in honor of The Black Queen. He layed on his stomach as the light from his phone illuminated only his face. His face contorted in a sort of twisted delight as he began to go through the messages. ::

"The old BINT's been dead for five minutes, and suddenly everybody is concerned with little ol' ME! Grotty lot of bastards.."

:: Archer stood from his bed, completely naked as he systematically thrust open the curtains that were darkening his room. Ever since The Black Queen had been found in her chambers...murder INSIDE The Hellfire Estate, his phone had been ringing non-stop. Had he done it? Did he know who did it? Was he hoping for a nomination. Archer's knowledge of Evelyn Pierce would remain in his brain the same way that many believed he kept his heart; encased in ice. The sun was starting it's descent down behind the rolling green hills of the countryside, though it was barely discernable thanks to the thick and infamous fog that haunted the country. He stood in front of the window, his body completely visible to the many wait staff, caterers and any members who were outside as he laughed. It was roughly 4 P.M. in the afternoon. ::

"Well then, Archer..time to make yourself presentable..but FIRST..."

:: He walked over to the all glass vanity in the corner of the room, which was covered with every bottle of liquor imaginable and a decent amount of cocaine. He began to mindlessly divide a few lines for himself as he inhaled them sharply through a rolled up $100 bill. Just enough to allow him to stomach the nauseating stories and faux concern about Evelyn he was to hear for the evening. He exhaled, rubbing his nose. ::

"Party Favors!"

:: Clapping his hands together, rather loud and aggressive music began to play. French Rap Music. His favorite. He was a fan of irony, and the beauty of the french language mixed with the lively and urban beats of hip hop made him feel...well it made him feel as CLOSE to good as he could allow himself at this point. The music was incredibly loud as the walls of his room began to reverberate. Please with himself he began to walk across the room and into his master bathroom and turned the shower on. ::

:: As the steaming hot shower met his icy cold skin, an incredible amount of steam began to encompass the bathroom and into the bedroom as Archer closed his eyes and let the water rush over him. Though he loved to push the buttons and challenge the traditions of The Hellfire Club, he would need to attempt to show some good behavior tonight. The next few weeks were to be crucial. Archer didn't NEED the Hellfire Club necessarily, but with the life he lived and the world he walked in, it was good to be alligned with people with the ability to get him out of some very serious, very LEGAL situations. He realized that much. His thoughts also drifted to Evelyn...and then quickly away. He remembered meeting her for the first time several years ago in a nightclub in Paris. The two had shared some laughs and some HOT moments, and when they each found out what the other was a part of, they knew that a continued business relationship would prove to be quite beneficial. That was what he liked about Evelyn...she was spicy, passionate...everything he was not..but she wasn't without her venom and a list a mile long of people who wanted her dead..Hell..even Archer himself had thought about killing her a few times, but then again...his go to was usually killing somebody. ::

:: A few hours later, Archer put the final touches on his suit and looked into the mirror. ::

"You're a GOD, Fairchild. I'd boff ya!"

:: Walking back over to the vanity, he did a few more lines before grabbing a giant bottle of expensive champagne, turned off his music and walked out the door. The halls were abuzz with activity with many of the wait staff darting from room to room to help the incredibly helpless members of The Hellfire Club appear presentable. Archer rounded the hall, darting in and out between that staff members as they apologized profusely. He rolled his eyes, giving them not a second thought before heading down one the giant wrapping staircases, his senses affronted with all new sights and sounds. Classical music could be heard all around as the halls were decorated with pictures of Evelyn with different members of The Court. As he made his way towards The Great Hall where the reception was taking place, he took a moment to look at the pictures. Some of the faces he regardly more warmly than others. There was Juliette of The White Court, a woman who made him want to do very depraved, very naughty things. He hoped he would see her tonight, but he wasn't worried. Juliette was a power player on The White Court. She wasn't going to miss this political opportunity. Right before walking into the Great Hall, he spotted a picture of himself, Evelyn and Brienne Shaw, right after she had been appointed as Black Princess of The Court. He liked Brienne. A lot. She looked like some sort of porcelain doll, but she was capable of absolutely deranged things, not to mention her "abilities" were...twisted to say the least. He connected with her dark side. She was a wild card. Very young, but VERY powerful. The Court saw a lot of potential in her and she was by far The Hellfire Club's youngest court appointment ever. But nobody could ever figure out where Brienne's head was, let alone her loyalty. He'd try and figure SOMETHING out about her tonight. ::

:: Finally, he made his way to the Great Hall which was tastefully decorated, if not overdone..but then again, that was Rebecca to a tee. The Red Queen was just about the LAST person he wanted to stomach for the evening, and her advances at him left LITTLE to the imagination. Still, she was essentially royalty, and if he was even THINKING about going forward, he would need her approval. With a sigh, he handed the bottle to a young waiter and asked him to keep his glass full. Taking a moment, Archer held back for the moment, but it was too late. The announcer had already seen him. ::

Announcer: Ladies and Gentleman...Archer Fairchild, The Court's Black Rook...

:: The announcer's voice was celebratory, but sad enough not to offend those that would view this kind of gathering as almost a celebration of Evelyn's DEATH, rather than her life...but then again, Archer figured the crowd attending tonight would be split 50/50. Archer did his best to smile and nod to those around him, before exhaling deeply, his only respite being the glass of personally chillded champagne handed to him just in time by the waiter. He moved forward, greeting the others, accepting their condolences, while desperately looking for somebody with ANY kind of substance to talk to. ::

 

[Crimson]

The Hellfire Estate - The Red Queen Prepares

"Darling, that's enough rouge. I want my cheeks to look cherubic not charred."

Rebecca looked at herself intently in the large circular vanity mirror that resided in the dressing chambers of her suite at The Hellfire Estate as she mindlessly darted a makeup brush away from her face. Her eyes seemed fixated on every last detail of her porcelain like face as she subtly squinted and puckered her lips, taking a few moments before the night's events to ensure that she looked absolutely perfect.

Thanks to a covenant that essentially cost the woman her humanity, her face most certainly did not show her age, but that didn't stop Rebecca from attempting to harness every bit of beauty that resided in her body, though anybody who saw her would assure her that it was not possible for her to be any more beautiful than she already was. But obsession was just that...obsession. As she applied another layer of her signature crimson red lipstick, a shade that was specific to only her, the chamber maid who was brushing her hair felt satisfied enough with the look to place the antique horse hair brush down on the vanity next to Rebecca. A flat expression fell upon Rebecca's face, her gaze moving from her own reflection to the reflection of the chamber maid. Her sultry soprano voice lilted in the air.

"Hannah...lean in, dear."

A look of anguish washed over the chamber maid's face as she almost debated as to whether or not she should in fact, lean in closer to The Red Queen. The gall of the chamber maid caused Rebecca's eyes to widen for a split second before cocking her head slightly, her gaze returning to her own reflection, once again fiddling with her lipstick.

"Now is most certainly not the time to find your inner strength, Hannah. I believe I said....[slowly] lean. in."

Tears filled Hannah's eyes as she slowly and painstakingly leaned in closer to Rebecca's face. Without breaking gaze with her reflection, her right hand swooped from behind with incredible speed, her brilliant red nailed fingers grasping TIGHTLY around Hannah's hair, gripping it tightly in a ball. Rebecca sat down her tube of lipstick as she began to pout her lips, assessing her work. She spoke in an even and deliberate tone.

"Hannah..how many times did that brush run through my hair?"

Hannah was crying now, desperately pawing for Rebecca to let go of her hair, tears streaming down her face. Her voice was weak and baited.

Hannah: "One thou--One thousand times, my Queen."

Rebecca gripped tighter as she motioned for another chamber maid to move forward and continue to apply the finishing touches to her face. She let out a soft and short laugh.

"One thousand times, you say? Well, forgive me, Hannah...but I only counted 997, so you see the position that leaves us in, don't you? It means....one of us...is a liar. Do you think i'm a liar...Hannah?"

She gripped tighter as Hannah screamed out in pain as hair began to disconnect from her scalp. The other chamber maid continued to work on Rebecca's face, seemingly unphased by what was happening.

Hannah: "No! No! You aren't a liar my queen! I--I must have miscounted! I'm so sorry!"

Rebecca cocked an eyebrow, still admiring her own reflection.

"Good. Now...as for your sudden lack of eptitude. What do I tell all of my girls.."

Hannah: [whimpering]"Beauty...beauty is a regimine!"

Rebecca nodded as she gripped EVEN tighter on the chamber maid's hair.

"Good girl...what else?"

Hannah: "Beauty takes disc--beauty takes discipline!!"

A small but devilish smile curled up in Rebecca's lips for a split second.

"That's right. Beauty takes discipline, Hannah. I maintain my appearance through constant work and routine, and if ANY part of that routine falls by the wayside...well then, it compromises everything. So you can see...the reason behind my concern at your ability..."

With a furious YANK, a large CHUNK of Hannah's hair was REMOVED from her head with the skin attached as Hannah FELL to the ground with a thud and a flurry of screams and tears. Hannah grabbed at her head, screaming as Rebecca tossed the chunk of hair and flesh into the waste basket next to the vanity, promptly returning to her routine.

"Let that be a reminder of the importance of doing your job correctly when asked. Now, go tend to your wounds in private. Your screams are interfering with atmosphere I've created for tonight."

Rebecca let out a wispy sigh as she grabbed the brush on her vanity and ran it through her hair three more times, as she once again waved away the chamber maid workin on her face. She took several moments to admire her completed look. The dress was vintage Valentino and muted enough for tonight's events. Though this was essentially a wake, The respective leaders of The Courts were always expected to wear their colors. She was satisfied.

"Alright girls..give me a moment to myself. I'm going to need all the strength I have tonight."

Quickly the chamber maids left Rebecca alone in her dressing chambers as she took a bottle of vintage perfume and delicately squeezed the pump, dowsing her body with a distinct yet light floral scent. As she set the bottle down, she noticed a picture on her vanity of Evelyn Pierce and herself at the annual Hellfire Gala nearly 15 years ago. The woman had always gone back and forthe with each other. There were times they were incredibly close and times they couldn't have been MORE adversarial, but in terms of allies on The Hellfire Court, Evelyn was a better friend than enemy..and though tonight she might have to pull out some crocodile tears and pretend that she was trying to be strong, in reality, Rebecca needed to start moving the right chess pieces into place. Tonight she would assess the court, she would figure out who she needed to take over The Black Court, and she would decide which members of The Inner Circle..were better off dead. Nobody would leave the estate until she was sure that her plan would be brough to fruition. She had already alerted Bretta, The Red Princess to keep an eye on things around her and Bretta was the most loyal member of The Red Court. If Bretta saw anything, she would most certainly alert Rebecca.

There was another important person on Rebecca's list in the coming days and that was Juliette De Lacroix, The White Princess. Rebecca had always been concerned about Juliette because she recognized the tactician that she was. The Red Queen knew that Juliette's ambitions were greater than she led on, and that she was JUST the type of person...who KNEW how to get away with murder. It was why Rebecca had sent The White King and Queen away for a day or two, to give her time to try and figure out if Juliette was a person of concern during this bleak time. Whatever was to transpire, Rebecca would be prepared for it. She had seen the courts shift power countless times over the years, and this was simply another one of these times. She was confident The Red Court would remain in her control, but she had to make sure that if there WAS a power shift, she would REMAIN on the side of control.

As she continued to get lost further in thought, a knock snapped her back into reality.

Man: "My Queen, the guests have started to gather in the Great Hall..."

Rebecca was cast back into reality as she once again met her gaze in the mirror. She responded to the faceless voice.

"Thank You. I will be out shortly. Make sure the drinks are flowing and that everyone is taken care of."

Man: "Yes, your highness!"

She would give the attendees some more time to arrive, drink and gossip before she made her appearance and transitioned the evening to dinner. As she surveyed her reflection with a surprising curiosity as a smile appeared on her face.

"Let The Games Begin...."

 

[Silver]

Hellfire Estate - Great Hall

:: Bretta rolled over in bed, smiling. Last night was…MIND-BLOWING. Her playmate of the night, London’s mayor, Thomas Ashton Westwood, was sound asleep beside her. She allowed herself a small smile. Thomas stayed the night in her suite at the Hellfire Estate instead of going home to his WIFE and two BRATS. He claimed he was too tired to make the half hour’s trek to his posh home in Highbury but Bretta knew the truth: he wanted to spend the night away from his ‘baggage’ and had chosen to spend time with HER. ::

Stupid, little, COW. How can somebody be THAT blind to what their husband’s been up to?

:: Westwood’s dalliances have been LEGENDARY in all the major papers throughout the UK. Bretta was just glad that nobody had gotten wind of HER part in all of this but she knew EXACTLY how to be discreet. Bretta yawned and grabbed her mobile on the bedside table beside her. It was 10 in the morning and Rebecca, the Red Queen, had texted her about a million things to do today to get everything organized for tonight’s event. Bretta was the Red Princess and even though it brought her a lot of prestige and perks, sometimes it felt as though she was only there as Rebecca’s…lackey? ::

*grouchily*: Why can’t the Rook do it? Why is it always ME?

:: But she wasn’t really upset. Rebecca had been great to her and she really did seem to care about her. Still, it was TEN in the MORNING. She had spent a wonderful night with a good-looking man and now she had to get right on top of things? Bretta sighed and pushed Westwood. ::

“Get up! You need to leave. I have things to do.”

Westwood: *mumbles:* “No…sleep.”

:: He wrapped his arm around her waist and tried to pull her close. Bretta SMACKED him and got out of bed. Her playmate groaned and pulled the sheets over his head. Bretta shrugged and headed into her vast closet. She immediately found something that meant business to wear and quickly got dressed. She wandered back into the bedroom and by now Westwood was sitting up in her bed. He made a grab for her when she came over to get her mobile and kissed her on the lips. Bretta giggled and pressed her forehead against his. ::

“I had fun last night…”

:: Westwood opened his mouth to reply when the phone in her hand buzzed. She checked her texts and looked at her bedmate apologetically. ::

“I have to take this. I’m sorry, but I just do. We are having this thing tonight…”

:: She let her Irish brogue do the trick. Westwood LOVED her accent. After her father died, Bretta had stayed in Ireland for a few months to ‘find herself’. She left the room and began the process of making everything PERFECT for her Queen. ::

<< 4PM >>

:: Bretta was still running around making sure the canapés were to HER liking because if it was good for HER, it was good for her Queen. Rebecca had ingrained into her the art of only having the best of the very BEST. Anything less was unacceptable. She was now wearing a beautiful yet tasteful dress. She made her way over to the flowers and started rearranging them all over again. Rebecca would notice. She let go of one of the flowers and darted over to the quartet that was playing in the corner. ::

“Calm, gentle, music, please. This is a WAKE, not a ball. You’ve been here before, so you should KNOW that only the BEST is in accordance tonight! Our poor Black Queen has been MURDERED. Get it together!”

:: She left before any of them could say anything and headed for one of the exits. She knew it was almost time for the event to begin. She had to make sure it was PERFECT. Bretta waited in the wings and nodded to the announcer when she spotted Archer Fairchild making his way to the event. She didn’t know much about Mr. Fairchild and if she were honest with herself, she didn’t WANT to know him. She had a DEEP mistrust of people. She barely heard the announcer announce Fairchild’s arrival as she wandered over to the wait staff. ::

“Keep the drinks coming and the food hot…or cold, depending on the dish. Everything has to be PERFECT. I have to oversee this entire thing because Rebecca is busy getting ready and I DEMAND perfection.”

:: Bretta exhaled and fluffed her hair. She was wearing it long tonight with soft waves and she gave a crooked smile to the announcer. Westwood had long since left, but not before grabbing her for secret kisses throughout the day. Thankfully they both knew how to be discreet…which sadly never reached his bevy of women OUTSIDE the Hellfire Estate. ::

Showtime...

Announcer: “Ladies and Gentlemen…Bretta O’Malley, the Court’s Red Princess…”

:: Bretta gave a wobbly smile as she made her way into the Great Hall, nodding here and there to people. She made her way over to Archer and tapped him on the shoulder. She knew that people were waiting for her, the Red Princess, to make condolences to the Black Court. ::

*somber*: “I’m really sorry for your loss. It’s quite a shock. I still can’t believe it…”

 

[Avalanche]

The Hellfire Estate - The Great Hall

"Yes, yes thank you kindly. Evelyn will be missed..."

:: He began to make love to his champagne in an effort to deal with the throngs of people descending upon him, giving their required and opportunistic condolences. Death was a strange concept for him. There had only ever been one death that effected him on a deep level, his father. Instead of whimpering in a corner and falling apart, he exacted revenge and moved on with his life, at the cost of sealing himself off emotionally from just about everything else. After that, he was able to take life easily, and not care. Still, he understood that these types of events really were for the people who remained alive. Evelyn wouldn't have given a shit about any of this...and to be honest, Archer really didn't either. He liked Evelyn, respected her...but people died, especially people like them. ::

:: As soon as he finished his flute of champagne he was greeted with another full glass from his private stock. He was pleased with the efficiency of the waiter, who was probably just trying to avoid chastisement rather than expressing his incredible desire to serve. Still, he had to give credit where credit was due. Archer continued to make his way through the crowd until he felt a poke on his shoulder. He immediately tensed up. In Archer's line of work, being surprised like that could most certainly lead to death. Spinning quickly on his heels, he turned around to meet the gaze of one Bretta O'Malley, The Court's Red Princess. He thought he had heard another court member arrive. To be honest, he ddn't really know Bretta outside of the Hellfire Club. He had seen the way she operated and it seemed as if her lips were firmly planted on The Red Queen's ass. ::

:: He was also certain that Bretta was going to be keeping a close eye on everyone at the ball and reporting her findings to Rebecca. With that in mind, he made sure to react accordingly. ::

"Miss O'Malley. Thank You for Your Words. It is certainly a tragedy for The Black Court..."

:: Archer leaned in whispered into The Red Princess' ear ::

"Even more tragic are these bloody ponces clammering for face time with any member of the court to garner favor. Tell me, do you think every single ONE of them wanted Evelyn dead at some point?"

:: Leaning back, he looked around to the attendees who all seemed to have their eyes on Bretta and Archer. The elemental cracked a smile. ::

"Thank you for your words, my dear friends. However, this night is in honor of The Black Queen. If you'll please...allow us some space to breathe and speak privately."

:: As soon as Archer finished speaking, the crowd seemed to part. People within The Hellfire Club tended to listen to Archer. The position of Rook was an esteemed position and often more respected than many of the Princes and Princesses of The Court. It was an appointment that had not been seen on ANY of the Courts, in quite some time. This of course had been a deliberate move on Evelyn's part. He grabbed Bretta lightly by the arm. ::

"Come on...let's sit at one of these tables, get some breathing room..."

:: The two made their way to one of the many tables around the Great Hall. As they sat down, Archer took a swig of his champagne and eyed Bretta up and down for a moment. ::

"So...has Rebecca got you on double duty tonight? Or have you finally broken free from your serfdom?"

:: Archer was testing the waters, attempting to get a little bit of perspective on the relationship between Bretta and Rebecca, to see if it was as strong as it seemed. ::

 

[Juliette De Lacroix]

4 p.m.

A white Dior gown, a black sash. Fitting for royalty attending a wake. It was displayed on a mannequin in her bed chambers right now. Juliette lounged on her sofa in a silk robe, talking on the phone to one of the few people in this organization she actually enjoyed talking to.

"Vill ve be able to identify dze murderer, Liam?"

>> I have EVERY confidence, Julie. I'm counting on you to keep me informed.

"As soon as dze Sun descends past dze peaks, I shall be your eyes and ears."

A man dressed in a white tuxedo answered a knock at her door, then approached Juliette and knelt down beside her wordlessly, presenting her with a dark, hand-labeled bottle. Juliette read the label aloud.

"A.B. negative. Vhat is dzis?"

Man: A gift, your Grace. It came with this."

He handed her a card as the man on the phone asked what was going on.

"I 'ave been sent bottled blood. It is a very rare blood type, I vonder-- Zut alors, it is from Damien."

>> Still after you, is he?

" 'is sentiment reads: condolences on dze loss of your friend. Dzis fine vintage vas laced vit absinte for your drinking pleasure. I encourage you to consume dze entire bottle before dze night's end; I'm 'oping to take advantage of you in your time of grieving, inebriated vulnerability."

>> Surely you added that last bit yourself, Princess.

"I vish I 'ad. Dzis is starting to anger me."

>> I'll speak with him.

"No. I can 'andle 'im myself."

He will be the first to die in her coup d'etat.... and soon. Evelyn's death, disappointing as it was, presented a fair opportunity. With the Black Court in upheaval, the Red and White Queens both scrambling to make the power shift in the right respective direction, Juliette had the chance to take her own Court by storm.

Man: your Grace, the castle is in the shade of the mountains. Your passage to the wake is safe now.

"Very vell. (Into the phone) My King, I must go… It is time I discovered vhat dze Red Queen is up to."

>> Be careful, Julie.

"Yes, your Majesty."

*************

She passed silently down the corridor, not even her skirts made noise. The two guardsmen in white tuxedos that flanked her made a bit more sound, but not loud enough for human ears to detect.

Doormen pushed aside large wooden double doors to reveal the gathering.

Announcer: Madames and Messrs, I now present the Duchess De Lacroix, Marquise de Ratonneau, Juliette; the Court's White Princess.

The congregation turned to receive her appearance, and clapped briefly, but kept their distance. Juliette was known to all at Hellfire as a vampire, and many of them were unsure and uncomfortable in her presence. She glanced around for Archer.

 

[Silver]

Hellfire Estate - Great Hall

:: Bretta wasn’t a hundred per cent sure, but it seemed as if Archer was somewhat…tense about her actions? She decided to just let it go instead of maybe pursuing it. The Black Queen was murdered HERE at this fine establishment. Being the Black Rook, he was probably on edge that he was next in line. ::

"Miss O'Malley. Thank You for Your Words. It is certainly a tragedy for The Black Court..."

:: Archer whispered into her ear. ::

"Even more tragic are these bloody ponces clammering for face time with any member of the court to garner favor. Tell me, do you think every single ONE of them wanted Evelyn dead at some point?"

:: Bretta stifled a laugh. It was true; the surrounding people were NOTORIOUS for trying to get in good with the Court. As for wanting Evelyn DEAD, well, that remained to be seen. ::

*murmurs*: “It’s possible all of them wanted Evelyn dead at some point but in all honesty…none of them would really ACT on it. Not if it meant jeopardizing THEIR own standing here at The Hellfire Estate.”

:: They both pulled back to find that people were watching with interest; almost as if they were HOPING for…something. Bretta had to fight the urge to roll her eyes. ::

Bloody, bloody, PRATS. Go live your OWN lives!

"Thank you for your words, my dear friends. However, this night is in honor of The Black Queen. If you'll please...allow us some space to breathe and speak privately."

:: Just like that, the crowd scattered. Bretta just shook her head. The GALL of these…humans was less than impressive. It irritated her to no end sometimes. Archer lightly grabbed her by the arm. ::

”Come on...let's sit at one of these tables, get some breathing room..."

:: The made their way over to a nearby table and sat down, Archer drinking his champagne and Bretta noticing some dry leaves had fallen from the centerpiece. She gathered them up with his hand nonchalantly. ::

"So...has Rebecca got you on double duty tonight? Or have you finally broken free from your serfdom?"

:: Bretta met his gaze head on, her green eyes narrowed. She signaled a passing waiter and handed him the dried leaves she had plucked from the tablecloth. So. He was straight to the point, wasn’t he? Well if he was looking for some ammo, he was sorely mistaken. If he thought she was going to betray her Queen, he was dead wrong. Sure, there were things that bothered her about how Rebecca had been treating her but she wasn’t going to let Archer know that. Besides, there had probably been things that had bothered HIM about Evelyn. Right. Of course. ::

*sharply*: “Rebecca has been extremely good to me; EXTREMELY good. It’s been an honour AND a pleasure to help her out when she needs it. I’m learning so much from her. The fact that you seem to think I’m a lot lower than I think I am is offensive.”

:: Bretta's eyes held just a hint of danger. Sure, she was grumbling to herself earlier about what she had to do, but that was HER business. Besides, she truly didn't mind doing various things for Rebecca. ::

“Rebecca has been absolutely DEVASTATED by Evelyn’s passing, so it’s only natural and fitting that I help her out with the wake and other events. I’m NOT a slave; I CHOSE to help out here and there.”

:: She heard the announcement of Juliette’s arrival in the background. Great. To say that she and The White Princess don’t get along would be an understatement. The truth was that Bretta was a DARK FAERIE, and faerie blood was INTOXICATING to vampires. Bretta was always on high alert whenever Juliette was around. Not that she was afraid of her, but just to watch her own back. Past experiences had taught her to only look out for herself…and nobody else. ::

"I...am really lucky to be able to learn from The Red Queen. What other people can say the same?"

:: She regarded him coolly. She would watch what she said and mind herself always. He may be The Black Rook but much like the prats who were constantly trying to garner favour from The Court, she wasn't completely sure he wouldn't stab her in the back by going to Rebecca. MOST of the Hellfire Club's members would kill their own mums if it meant getting ahead of the game. ::

 

[Lord Ravena]

He sat in her room, on her bed. Silent. Taking it all in. she was one of the most powerful women he had ever met in this modern time, and he had taken her many times here. Their appetites matched and though there was no love per se, he MISSED her. But, as with everyone save himself, a time would come when it would all end. He sighed in momentary sadness for the first time in nearly a thousand years, and then it was over.

He stood, resolute, and his attendants adjusted and smoothed his outfit silently, quickly, then vanished into thin air. They would be watching, but they would NOT be seen, save perhaps by Duchess De LaCroix herself.

Turning, he opened the doors to the ballroom and stood. There had been no plan to introduce him; he was not a member of the inner circle by his own choice. But the announcer was wise, and so he was prepared just in case.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you the Timeless Defender and Monarch of the Kingdom of New Anatolia, The High Consul of same, and the Advisor to the Courts of the Inner Circle of the Hellfire Club of Europe, Lord Ravena.

He walked in wordlessly, unaccompanied but not alone. There was a silence as people made way for him. No one was sure what to make of him;many had never seen him in person. Many of those who HAD encountered him were (allegedly) no longer with them.

As he walked, he made a point to locate the royalty present and greet them. Encountering the white Princess, he embraced her warmly, kissed each cheek, then spoke to her in flawless French.

Salutations enfant. On dirait que parfaitement belle que jamais. Nous partageons le cœur lourd ce soir, mais nous allons rester forte, oui?

He had not noticed her attendants, who seemed agitated at his presence. They held nothing for him to fear. He held her with one arm round her waist as he regarded her and awaited her answer. His gaze was piercing...alluring...timeless.

 

[Avalanche]

The Hellfire Estate - The Great Hall

:: Bretta met his gaze head on, her green eyes narrowed. She signaled a passing waiter and handed him the dried leaves she had plucked from the tablecloth. So. He was straight to the point, wasn’t he? Well if he was looking for some ammo, he was sorely mistaken. If he thought she was going to betray her Queen, he was dead wrong. Sure, there were things that bothered her about how Rebecca had been treating her but she wasn’t going to let Archer know that. Besides, there had probably been things that had bothered HIM about Evelyn. Right. Of course. ::

*sharply*: “Rebecca has been extremely good to me; EXTREMELY good. It’s been an honour AND a pleasure to help her out when she needs it. I’m learning so much from her. The fact that you seem to think I’m a lot lower than I think I am is offensive.”

Archer looked at Bretta with a devilish curiousity. Bretta was most certainly an enigma. Many members of The Hellfire Club couldn't WAIT to bash members of the court when they were not around, yet the dark faerie was obedient. It was a smart move on her part. Any sign of discomfort within your court right now would be cause for concern. Bretta was in a good position to keep her position on the court and get out of any power struggles unscathed. He slugged back some more of his champagne.

"Easy kitten. I just noticed you running around here earlier in a fit..a rather endearing, dare I say sexy little fit. I assumed the old battle axe must be running you ragged lately...she has a tendency to overwork her court...as I'm sure you know..."

:: Bretta's eyes held just a hint of danger. Sure, she was grumbling to herself earlier about what she had to do, but that was HER business. Besides, she truly didn't mind doing various things for Rebecca. ::

“Rebecca has been absolutely DEVASTATED by Evelyn’s passing, so it’s only natural and fitting that I help her out with the wake and other events. I’m NOT a slave; I CHOSE to help out here and there.”

:: She heard the announcement of Juliette’s arrival in the background. Great. To say that she and The White Princess don’t get along would be an understatement. The truth was that Bretta was a DARK FAERIE, and faerie blood was INTOXICATING to vampires. Bretta was always on high alert whenever Juliette was around. Not that she was afraid of her, but just to watch her own back. Past experiences had taught her to only look out for herself…and nobody else. ::

Archer LAUGHED out loud at the last statement causing people to look at her statement.

"Oh, Bretta. You are TOO much. I think "devestated" might be overstating it. I understand being loyal to your QUEEN but we both know, the only thing Rebecca cares about...in ANY capacity..is herself, and possibly her reflection..."

"I...am really lucky to be able to learn from The Red Queen. What other people can say the same?"

:: She regarded him coolly. She would watch what she said and mind herself always. He may be The Black Rook but much like the prats who were constantly trying to garner favour from The Court, she wasn't completely sure he wouldn't stab her in the back by going to Rebecca. MOST of the Hellfire Club's members would kill their own mums if it meant getting ahead of the game. ::

"Lucky is a relative term, mon amour. But you seem to be doing well here at The Hellfire Club. I'd say you are relatively low on the list of suspects for The Black Queen's murder. However, one might look at you and your relationship with Rebecca and think maybe you resent her...I mean..you're powerful enough in your own right to rule a court. There's a spot open. I'm sure there be enough people who'd want to STICK it to Rebecca by voting you in..Tell me...have you no aspirations to rise in the ranks? Or are you happy to stay by Rebecca's side..."

:: Archer leans in ::

"Forgive my lack of candor...but if you haven't noticed...the courts are about to go to war, and besides...if you DO have any aspirations...you're going to need support...and an endorsement from The Black Rook himself could look...well...beneficial..."

:: He sat back in his chair. Either she would get uspet and angry at him for talking like this at such a time, or she would do what everybody ELSE in the room was doing...playing the game. Perhaps Bretta was BETTER at the game than Archer, and keeping her cards to her chest until the right moment was her plan..Still, Archer liked to ruffle feathers and keep people guessing. As he heard the arrival of Juliette his eyes immediately went to her, he ALMOST was about to wave her over..until he realized that he was sitting with a Dark Faerie. Thankfully Lord Ravena arrived several seconds later and took company with the vampire. He was grateful that Ravena was here. Archer respected the man's power and prestige...he dare say trusted him. If he was going to get through the coming days, he would need to take counsel with Lord Ravena. He was the closest to Evelyn. He would know what she wanted and he would know the way Archer could exact that. Ravena wouldn't make the move himself as he kept a healthy distance from the court and allies on all sides, but he would give Archer an unbiased opinion. ::

"Oh what the hell...Let's see what the faerie does next..."

:: Archer's gaze met Juliette's for a fleeting and intense moment as he nodded and gestured for her to come over and did the same thing with Lord Ravena. He smirked at Bretta. ::

"Well...I guess it's time for you to put those diplomatic skills and beauty pageant answers to the test. Juliette and Lord Ravena have arrived..."

 

[Juliette De Lacroix]

Dark chocolate eyes scanned the crowd for someone worthy of her time. She brought her hands together in front of her, rubbing them to stimulate some warmth. They were cold as ice, and her porcelain skin was yet another sign of her thirst. She spotted Archer, but he was with the Red Princess. Now was not the time to be within 50 feet of a faerie. The cavernous ballroom seemed less so, and stuffy with the body heat of its inhabitants.

A string of pearls was wrapped around her right forearm like a gauntlet. At the wrist end was a crucifix carved from human bone. She ran it between her thumb and index finger absently.

Bon appétit.

She would need to feed tonight, but not at the wake. She could wait. She had long since grown accustomed to the thirst. They were here to remember the fallen, and she wouldn't disrupt that.

Lord Ravena approached and they greeted one another warmly in her native language.

"Forte, oui. nous renforcera mutuellement. (Adjusting his pocket square) Oh, comment débonnaire vous regardez ce soir. Vous cacher votre tristesse bien."

She took one of his hands in both of hers, locking eyes with him in sincerity.

"Mon Seigneur, vous ne saurez pas outrage pour longtemps. Le Roi et moi visiterons vengeance sur le meurtrier de Evelyn."

She vowed before glancing past him. She made eye contact with Archer, who gestured for them to join. They began to migrate towards him, the crowd parting for them. The scent of Bretta's blood saturated the air around her.

Juliette's eyes faded to onyx. She tempered a coquettish smile and put Archer between herself and Bretta, greeting him with concern.

"Archair, you 'andsome devil. 'ow are you 'olding up?"

 

[Silver]

Hellfire Estate - Great Hall

"Easy kitten. I just noticed you running around here earlier in a fit..a rather endearing, dare I say sexy little fit. I assumed the old battle axe must be running you ragged lately...she has a tendency to overwork her court...as I'm sure you know..."

:: A waiter came by and handed her a glass of champagne. She took two sips, to give her something to do before replying. She had to go about this carefully. One misstep and everything could go wrong. ::

“Well, I HAVE been at this since ten this morning, but The Black Queen WAS pretty special so it’s only right that Rebecca demands absolute perfection...”

:: Bretta took another sip though she felt uneasy, as if she should be doing something else like maybe seeing that everybody is taken care of? Perhaps going around the tables and cleaning up OTHER piles of leaves that have congregated on the tablecloths? Her heart began to pound. She mentioned that Rebecca was devastated by Evelyn’s passing. She was so wound up about making sure everything was PERFECT that she jumped a bit when Archer laughed. ::

"Oh, Bretta. You are TOO much. I think "devestated" might be overstating it. I understand being loyal to your QUEEN but we both know, the only thing Rebecca cares about...in ANY capacity..is herself, and possibly her reflection..."

:: Bretta just shrugged. She was quickly tiring of Archer trying to make her disloyal to Rebecca, so she shot back about how lucky she was to learn from her. ::

"Lucky is a relative term, mon amour. But you seem to be doing well here at The Hellfire Club. I'd say you are relatively low on the list of suspects for The Black Queen's murder. However, one might look at you and your relationship with Rebecca and think maybe you resent her...I mean..you're powerful enough in your own right to rule a court. There's a spot open. I'm sure there be enough people who would want to STICK it to Rebecca by voting you in..Tell me...have you no aspirations to rise in the ranks? Or are you happy to stay by Rebecca's side..."

:: Archer leans in ::

"Forgive my lack of candor...but if you haven't noticed...the courts are about to go to war, and besides...if you DO have any aspirations...you're going to need support...and an endorsement from The Black Rook himself could look...well...beneficial..."

:: Okay. Now Archer had her interest picqued. She felt a thrill deep inside of her when he mentioned that there were people who would probably love to stick it to Rebecca by voting her into the now available spot. The truth was that she would LOVE to rise in the ranks. But she wouldn’t let ARCHER know that. She looked at him curiously. ::

What are you up to, Mr. Fairchild?

:: She chuckled softly. ::

*amused*: “Let’s say I DO have aspirations to rise in the ranks. Am I supposed to believe that YOU, The Black Rook, would help ME, the Red Princess? If anything, I’d say that the opening would be only suitable for the reigning Black Princess.”

:: She took another sip and took a minute to look around the room. Everybody seemed to be doing just fine, which was good. Everything was coming together fabulously. Her smile faltered as she caught sight of Juliette, the White Princess. She wasn’t one to stir up trouble and she definitely wouldn’t do anything out of order tonight. Tonight was about The Black Queen and Bretta would make damn sure there would be no trouble at all. Rebecca was the hostess of the night and Bretta would make sure that everything was going accordingly to her [Rebecca] plan for the evening.

Thankfully everything is going in the right direction…

:: Everything was going good…until Archer waved both Juliette and Lord Ravena over to their table. She didn’t know much about Lord Ravena but she knew that he was close to The Black Queen. ::

"Well...I guess it's time for you to put those diplomatic skills and beauty pageant answers to the test. Juliette and Lord Ravena have arrived..."

:: She gritted her teeth and smiled prettily at Archer. ::

“Well then…cheers to us!”

:: Juliette and Lord Ravena arrived at their table. Juliette did a nice maneuver by placing Archer between them. ::

Nice touch, Juliette.

:: She turned to Lord Ravena and stood up in reverence. ::

“I know that you were close with The Black Queen. I would like to offer my sincerest condolences, Sir.”

 

[Avalanche]

The Hellfire Estate - The Great Hall

As Juliette and Lord Ravena arrived at the table, Archer stood, watching as Juliette placed him in front of the Dark Faerie. He smirked to himself. This meant Juliette was hungry, or bored...or it was Tuesday. But it was more likely that she had not yet fed as she was usually better at curbing her appetite around Bretta. Archer had to admit, the way that Juliette looked at Bretta made ARCHER curious as to just HOW delicious Bretta might taste to Juliette. He lost himself in somewhat of a fantasy, watching Juliette string Bretta up and lose herself in thirst.

He quickly snapped back as Juliette greeted him.

Juliette: "Archair, you 'andsome evil. 'ow are you 'olding up?"

Archer embraced Juliette in the standard European greeting, hands on shoulder, kisses on either cheek as he pulled back, watching as an attendant refilled his glass. He would have to personally thank the man later. He opened his mouth, his light cockney accent leaving traces in the air as he spoke.

"Well, lovey. I'm acting as to be expected. Drunk, obnoxious, broody...but..we've got to give the people what they want, don't we?"

[taking a sip]

"You seem...thirsty..."

Archer undid his tie in a quick motion, brushing it to the side to show his juggular, fully exposed, his muscular and thick neck brimming with veins in all the right places.

"You know you always have a 'friend' in me...it'll be chilled, but rest assured..it'll be good."

He smiled and re-did his tie as quickly as he had undone it. He was joking with her, a little bit. Archer definitely thrived in dark and twisted scenarios and he had to admit, a woman such as Juliette feeding on him might just tickle in all the right spots.

"I'm glad that somebody from the White Court has come to pay their respects. The White Queen and King are doing alright, I hope?"

 

[Lord Ravena]

Mon Seigneur, vous ne saurez pas outrage pour longtemps. Le Roi et moi visiterons vengeance sur le meurtrier de Evelyn.

He gave a small...smile as he replied.

En effet. Nous nous assurerons que tous reçoivent ce qu'ils méritent.


He noticed her look and saw Archer, the Black Rook, motioning them over. He was with the Dark Faerie Princess of the Red Court. Her blood would be a suitable offering to him perhaps one day, but for now, he placed a hand on Juliette's shoulder as they arrived. Archer teased her hunger and Ravena smiled a bit before snapping his fingers. Attendants brought a pair of goblets to the table. He lifted his and nodded to Juliette.

Greetings Rook. Your offer is tempting but I think I have this under control. The Princess will find her VINTAGE...to her liking.

He looked over the Faerie, drinking her in for a second before speaking.

So Princess, where is your Queen? Is this supposed to be a memorial or the United States Oscar Awards, that I am to wait for her greeting? Or am I to storm her chambers like the Visigoths of old and carry her out like a barbarian with his prize?

He was joking, or WAS he? His smile said joke, but his eyes said he would do that very thing now if he chose. He winked at Archer.

 

[Hex]

Ding Dong the Queen was Dead, and everyone and their damn mother was talking about it. Gossip filled the halls about who killed the Black Queen and how they got away with it. There were whispers of a mutiny within the black courts ranks. There were whispers of the red and white courts wanting to to take over the black court. There were whispers of fucking Jack the Ripper being seen walking the halls. It was all ridiculous and humorous at the same time. But what was less amusing were the whispers of Brienne Shaw's involvement. Half the Hellfire Club believed SHE did it, while the other half were too afraid to utter such words. With how Evelyn died, and Brienne's unique powerset, it wasn't completely out of the question that she could have in fact killed her own Queen. She was the Black Princess afterall--next in line to rule the black court if in fact the Queen could no longer do so. But with Evelyn's murder came questions and concerns. Who knew the Hellfire Club was now a bonafide Clue game?

Taking a long drag of her cigarette, Brienne's icy blue eyes watched as the sun began to set over the hills in the distance. It was only 4:30pm...fucking England. The fog began to roll in and the temperature was already dropping. Wrapping her arms around her body, her cigarette was loosely pinched between her index and middle finger.

Maid: "You're grace?"

Side glancing towards the voice, Charlotte her chamber maid stood near by looking at her.

Maid: "The wake has already begun...."

Rolling her eyes as she turned her attention back to the purple and grey skies, Brienne softly scoffed.

"Made evident by the hideous music that's been playing for the past half hour."

She may have lived in massive castle-like estate, but it didn't mean noise didn't echo around the damn place like a child screaming in an empty cave.

Taking one last drag of her cigarette, Brienne flicked it off the edge of her balcony before walking back into her chambers and heading over to her vanity. Charlotte quickly closed the double french before any wind could disturb the room. Brienne gave herself a once over in the mirror before picking up some Dior perfume and spritzing it on her wrists. Sighing, it was show time.

It wasn't long before Brienne was standing at the top of the grand staircase looking down at the vast number of Hellfire Club members that had shown up to pay their respects to Evelyn.

Announcer: "Ladies and Gentleman, Brienne Shaw...the Black Princess."

Suddenly the room became quiet as everyone looked up at Brienne. She didn't have to be a telepath to know what they were all thinking. "Did she do it?" "How could she have killed her own queen" "She MUST of killed her"....Blah blah blah. Descending the stairs, the silence soon became whispers and murmurs before finally the room was again loud with conversation. Reaching the landing, Brienne immediately grabbed a flute of champagne from a waiter, downing half the liquid in one gulp.

"Fuck."

As the waiter moved away, Brienne's icy blue eyes fell upon an older couple staring at her nearby. Giving them a pout.

"Such a shame what happened....You just never know who's safe around here."

The older woman's eyes widened in horror as she began to push the gentleman in the other direction, ushering them away from Brienne.

"Was it something I said?"

Rolling her eyes as she finished the remainder of her champagne, the blonde knew she was in for an interesting evening.

 

[Silver]

Hellfire Estate - Great Hall

:: Not much was known about the Hellfire Club’s most mysterious member, but perhaps he liked it that way. Bretta had never really interacted with Lord Ravena before this time. The way he was staring at her was UNNERVING and Bretta had to resist the urge to run. He completely disregarded what she said to him, but that, too, was probably intentional on his part. It added to the mystery of him. Bretta smiled softly and took another sip before being handed a refreshed glass from a passing waiter. ::

So Princess, where is your Queen? Is this supposed to be a memorial or the United States Oscar Awards, that I am to wait for her greeting? Or am I to storm her chambers like the Visigoths of old and carry her out like a barbarian with his prize?

:: Being in his presence made Bretta feel as if she had lost her footing…and she did NOT appreciate that at all. But she smiled again at Lord Ravena’s words. ::

“Rebecca is busy getting ready, sir. You know how she likes to make an enterance…even if it’s at other people’s expense. But she should be here shortly. However…”

:: Her green eyes sparkled with mischief. ::

*teasingly*: “I would advise you AGAINST storming her chambers. The Red Queen prefers for things to happen on HER own terms, and no one else’s.”

:: She heard the announcement of the Black Princess and, just like that, all conversation stopped IMMEDIATELY and all eyes turned towards the very beautiful Brienne Shaw. Bretta had heard the whispers and rumours that perhaps BRIENNE murdered Evelyn. While she had no doubt that Brienne could have done it, Bretta had the feeling that Brienne had nothing to do with Evelyn’s death. Perhaps the person who had killed The Black Queen WANTED to set up The Black Princess for a nasty fall? Bretta filed that theory away in her mind for later. ::

 

[Juliette De Lacroix]

Archer: Well, lovey. I'm acting as to be expected. Drunk, obnoxious, broody...but..we've got to give the people what they want, don't we?

"DO ve?"

She asked quietly, staring past him at the Red Princess. Juliette's eyes drank in the sight of Bretta, the way her hair tumbled down over bare shoulders, the slope of her collar bones, the pulse in her neck. She really did look quite irresistible tonight. Downright delicious.

Archer: You seem...thirsty...

He commented, then swiftly got her attention by exposing some skin. She inhaled sharply, glancing up at him.

Archer: You know you always have a 'friend' in me...it'll be chilled, but rest assured..it'll be good.

She could feel her fangs dropping subtly into extension. They weren't visible until she spoke. She brushed icy fingertips through his hair, letting her hand rest on the back of his neck as he fixed his tie.

"Provocateur...... You vould 'ave me avant-garde, and I vould 'ave YOU a la carte. You should not tempt me so. You believe you vill enjoy it. I am inclined to oblige--"

Ravena: Your offer is tempting but I think I have this under control. The Princess will find her VINTAGE...to her liking.

She was presented with a goblet, and raised an eyebrow. It was tangy and sweet, and not nearly as satisfying as pulling from a vein, but it would do as an amuse-bouche, and it would take the edge off for the time being. Juliette reclined back in her seat, crossing her legs at the knee.

"Merci beaucoup, mon Seigneur."

Archer: I'm glad that somebody from the White Court has come to pay their respects. The White Queen and King are doing alright, I hope?

"As vell as can be expected. The Queen 'as lost a -- 'ow do you say-- 'frenemy'? She and My King is immersed in dze pursuit of any knowledge leading to dze capture of Evelyn's keeler."

There was another arrival, and an announcement.

"Voila! Dze last Princess is 'ere. Is dzere a betting pool on dze odds dzat SHE offed dze Queen's 'ead?"

 

[Avalanche]

The Hellfire Estate - The Great Hall

Juliette: "Provocateur...... You vould 'ave me avant-garde, and I vould 'ave YOU a la carte. You should not tempt me so. You believe you vill enjoy it. I am inclined to oblige--"

As Juliette put her hands on his neck, he was comforted by the icy cold temperature of her body. Archer was used to being the cold one in many of his human interactions, but to meet a woman who's body and blood ran just as cold as his...was tempting to say the least.

As Archer adjusted his tie....

Ravena: Greetings, Rook! Your offer is tempting but I think I have this under control. The Princess will find her VINTAGE...to her liking.

Archer laughed.

"Well..my blood letting fantasies will just have to wait, then I see.."

He inquired about The White Court.

Juliette: "As vell as can be expected. The Queen 'as lost a -- 'ow do you say-- 'frenemy'? She and My King is immersed in dze pursuit of any knowledge leading to dze capture of Evelyn's keeler."

Archer rolled his eyes quickly.

"I'm sure they are...a convenient absence..but a smart one I guess. Who knows how many more bodies will pile up in the next few weeks..."

He heard Lord Ravena ask Bretta about the whereabouts of The Red Queen.

Bretta: "Rebecca is busy getting ready, sir. You know how she likes to make an enterance…even if it’s at other people’s expense. But she should be here shortly. However… I would advise you AGAINST storming her chambers. The Red Queen prefers for things to happen on HER own terms, and no one else’s.”

The ice elemental took another swig of his champagne as a devilish grin crawled across his face.

"Yes...filing down one's hooves CAN be a timely effort..."

Juliette as well as the announcer heralded the arrival of The Black Princess, Brienne Shaw.

Juliette: "Voila! Dze last Princess is 'ere. Is dzere a betting pool on dze odds dzat SHE offed dze Queen's 'ead?"

"Personally? I don't think she did it...She's a rebel, like myself...If she was going to kill The Black Queen..she'd want people to know. I've seen her victims..Brienne has a very...well distinct calling card...and by that I mean, she doesn't often leave much in the way of remains.."

[thinking to himself for a moment]

"It's one of the things I like about her, actually. She'd be perfect as one of my "cleaners"..though, I'm sure she'd eviserate me if I ever dared ask..."

[finishing yet another glass of champagne]

"But back to your statement, Juliette. I'm willing to be there is money on ALL of our heads. Sure it could have been a random act of violence...but let's face it, a member of the court 'offing one of it's own is far more poetic."

Archer began to wave Brienne over to the group.

"Nobody is safe in the coming days, comrades...Not even those who still have their Kings and Queens to protect them."

He shot a glance at Bretta and Juliette as he spoke.

 

[Lord Ravena]

:: Her green eyes sparkled with mischief. ::

*teasingly*: “I would advise you AGAINST storming her chambers. The Red Queen prefers for things to happen on HER own terms, and no one else’s.”

Such is prerogative of the matriarch. I will endure her teasing...for now.

Ravena leaned back, still taking in the view. This faerie child was striking, and he appreciated her strength of will to address him even in the face of her own fear.

He gave her a wink to reassure her that she was not on the menu.

The best way to judge a group was to watch them interact. It was obvious that this younger cadre of metahumans had managed to bond. The divisions often seen in the court seemed to dissolve, at least somewhat, around the ones assembled. Ravena sat back and took in the banter. The other Kings and Queens had much to fear from the assembled. Perhaps that is why the white King and Queen did not show here.

The Black Princess was introduced and he stood, as is custom. She seemed to revel in being the prime suspect, a fact that Juliette made no attempt to conceal.

Juliette: "Voila! Dze last Princess is 'ere. Is dzere a betting pool on dze odds dzat SHE offed dze Queen's 'ead?"

Archer:"Personally? I don't think she did it...She's a rebel, like myself...If she was going to kill The Black Queen..she'd want people to know. I've seen her victims..Brienne has a very...well distinct calling card...and by that I mean, she doesn't often leave much in the way of remains.."

"But back to your statement, Juliette. I'm willing to be there is money on ALL of our heads. Sure it could have been a random act of violence...but let's face it, a member of the court 'offing one of it's own is far more poetic."

Archer began to wave Brienne over to the group.

"Nobody is safe in the coming days, comrades...Not even those who still have their Kings and Queens to protect them."

He shot a glance at Bretta and Juliette as he spoke.

Indeed...speaking of Kings and Queens...Juliette, I would like for it to be officially known that I am...disappointed in the absence of the White King and Queen from this gathering. The Club's resources would enable them to spend these few hours with us and pay proper respects to the Black Court and return to...whatever they were doing. I will speak of it - or them - no further this night. But Evelyn was worth their time to pay PROPER respects.

Lord Ravena allowed a moment of fury to wash over him. This was not the way that leaders behaved and less that the Black Queen deserved. Just as quickly his fury dissipated, and he watched the Black Princess. who had been waved over by Archer, walk up. He stood to receive her, kissing her on each cheek.

Ah Princess...you look lovely. Please...have a seat. Do not allow the rabble to incite you.

Ravena pulled her a seat ad then, as he started to take his own seat, he noticed a chubby woman gawking at them, Brienne in particular. He looked at her, and she could not look away. Suddenly, she screamed and ran outside and into the night, blood pouring from her nose. He turned back to the group.

Someone apparently did not like the caviar. I personally thought it was good.

 

[Silver]

Hellfire Estate - Great Hall

"Yes...filing down one's hooves CAN be a timely effort..."

:: Bretta looked away from Lord Ravena for a second to give Archer a look of disapproval, though she DID offer a wink a second later. It was quite funny actually. ::

Such is prerogative of the matriarch. I will endure her teasing...for now.

:: He gave her a reassuring wink and Bretta smiled back. He was quite the enigma, Lord Ravena. One instant he was all mysterious and then, in the next one, he made everybody feel safe. ::

Must be all part of his mystique…

:: Talk soon turned to the newest arrival, with Juliette asking about a betting pool on whether Brienne had killed The Black Queen or not. ::

"Personally? I don't think she did it...She's a rebel, like myself...If she was going to kill The Black Queen..she'd want people to know. I've seen her victims..Brienne has a very...well distinct calling card...and by that I mean, she doesn't often leave much in the way of remains.."

[thinking to himself for a moment]

"It's one of the things I like about her, actually. She'd be perfect as one of my "cleaners"..though, I'm sure she'd eviserate me if I ever dared ask..."

"But back to your statement, Juliette. I'm willing to be there is money on ALL of our heads. Sure it could have been a random act of violence...but let's face it, a member of the court 'offing one of it's own is far more poetic."

"Nobody is safe in the coming days, comrades...Not even those who still have their Kings and Queens to protect them."

:: Bretta thought on that for a second. It was true; NOBODY was safe. It was a matter of time before questions turned to murmurings about WHO from The Court might be the next to die. Bretta immediately felt uneasy. She did NOT like where this was going. Perhaps Evelyn’s murderer was in this very room RIGHT NOW. She shifted in her seat. ::

Indeed...speaking of Kings and Queens...Juliette, I would like for it to be officially known that I am...disappointed in the absence of the White King and Queen from this gathering. The Club's resources would enable them to spend these few hours with us and pay proper respects to the Black Court and return to...whatever they were doing. I will speak of it - or them - no further this night. But Evelyn was worth their time to pay PROPER respects.

:: Lord Ravena spoke the truth. It WAS curious that they both weren’t there to pay their respects. Bretta turned to look at Juliette for her response and spotted Brienne making her way over. ::

Ah Princess...you look lovely. Please...have a seat. Do not allow the rabble to incite you.

:: Bretta waited until Lord Ravena stopped speaking and opened her mouth to acknowledge Brienne when a curious thing happened. A lady watching them suddenly rushed out of the room screaming with a bloody nose. Lord Ravena stated that somebody probably didn’t like the caviar. ::

Lord Ravena really IS a man of mystery. Hmmm.

:: She turned to Brienne. ::

“You look SMASHING tonight, Bri.”

:: She faltered a bit, before formally acknowledging Juliette for the first time. ::

"As do you, Juliette."

 

[Hex]

Spotting a few familiar faces, Brienne began to make her way over to Archer who had waved her down. She didn't have many friends....more like acquaintances that were beneficial, however she did seem to get along slightly more with this lot.

Lord Ravena: Ah Princess...you look lovely. Please...have a seat.

Returning his cheek to cheek kiss, Brienne took a seat as a waiter placed another flute of champagne down in front of her.

"Thank you."

Lord Ravena: Do not allow the rabble to incite you.

Opening her large opal ring like a locket, Brienne took out a single blue pill and tossed it into her champagne. The liquid instantly began to fizz as the pill dissolved.

"Please, i've been the subject of gossip all my life."

Taking a sip of the champagne cocktail, she looked up at Lord Ravena and gave him a small smirk.

"If I can't handle these people, I might as well join Evelyn dear in her crypt."

Seeing the other's pause a moment, Brienne lifted a single brow.

"Too soon?"

She had hardly noticed the fat woman staring at her until she began screaming with blood pouring down her face. As she ran out of the room, Brienne raised her champagne flute and toasted her flee, giving Lord Ravena a wicked smile.

"I do love your style."

Bretta: You look absolutely SMASHING tonight, Bri.

Turning her attention to Bretta, she gave her a coy smile knowing very well how great she looked. Modesty wasn't Brienne's strong suit. But she did notice how Bretta respectfully regarded Juliette as well. Shifting her icy eyes over to the vampire, Brienne couldn't help but smirk.

"Hunter and prey at the same table? How deliciously fun. Well if you attack her Juliette, at least all eyes won't be on me anymore."

Brienne joked darkly, although Bretta seemed less than amused.

"I'm kidding. God, you act like we're at a WAKE or something."