The old order changes

[Lord Ravena]

"My lord, I require a bit more time stateside. I will be in New Anatolia as soon as needed, please setup a portal?"

My roguish knight, for YOU... anything. I have installed a knock spell on your closet door that will activate from the inside. Two fast, three slow and you will open the door to your quarters in Ahadi.

Lord Ravena turned to Malice, who was seated beside him.

Maxine has matters to which she needs to attend. She will meet us in Ahadi. She advised me of her tardiness with apologies and I have made...arrangements for her.

He raised his voice and stood quickly.

As for the rest of you...the staff is here to attend to your needs. I apologize for the subterfuge, but the true identity of this aircraft is too much for domestic eyes.

He sat down as the staff, each paired with a member of the Inner Circle in a fuselage that seemed impossibly large and luxurious now compared to when they boarded, fanned out to provide drinks, to adjust seats or to do whatever else their assignment wished. Indeed, they looked to be boarding a nice, but pedestrian Airbus 380 charter, but as they were being attended to, the plan suddenly rose VERTICALLY, then took off!

Anyone looking outside, and there were large windows to do so, would see the appearance of their luxury airliner shift to something more futuristic. They were traveling by now at over Mach 3 yet there was no roar of the engines, no shudder, no sonic boom, the ride was as smooth as sitting in the Hellfire Club itself. They did not know it (Maxine did), but they were set to arrive in mere hours at the most technologically advanced country in the entire world.

Taking a drink of his hemlock, Lord Ravena sighed...it had been too long since he could take in the air, really enjoy the feeling of being at his stronghold. He would treasure this. There was much to do, but a lot of free time as well. And he deserved to enjoy the fruits of his people's hard work and his vision.

 

[Domino]

Meat Packing District

Alek: "Helena won't be here forever. It's just a fact of life. And I deserve to be named as her successor. I'm tired of being treated as an unproven child."

:: She watched as he spoke. It was clear to her that the situation he was facing with Persephone had really rubbed him the wrong way. Not that Alek was an in your face kind of guy, at least when it came to emotions, but she had until now only heard him speak of Helena with the greatest respect. He was a very loyal man, and it was what had piqued her interest in him. He served his Queen the way that Domino had served her. Despite her feeling on the court system, it was a quality she admired. ::

Alek: "Persephone is just a woman."

:: Maxine fought the urge to laugh. His face showed no indication that he was lying, but his next statement made it clear that his heart lied with The Red Rook. Alek and Maxine had much more in common than he realized. Maxine had been in a very similar situation, and she had very nearly died because of who she fell in love with..the first and ONLY time she had fallen in love. She had a bit of a soft spot for their situation. ::

Alek: "There will be no complication. Persephone lied to me about her feelings, and I have no use for liars. BUT - Should any of these eventualities present themselves, I want the same protection afforded to any members of my court forced to flee with me. You never know who your allies may end up being, and I won't leave anyone who stays loyal to me out in the cold."

:: She smirked ::

"Well..I'm not about to start a school for wayward children, but it shouldn't be a problem. Unless of course, the person who ends up helping you is Alice. In that case, you can go fuck yourself."

:: Maxine stood from her seat as she put out a hand to Alek. ::

"Then we have a deal..kind of...depending on the nature of the trip. As the person in charge of operations and facilities in my absence, you will of course have access to a number of security codes and be privy to a number of different protocols...which should help things along if I give you the cue to do so."

:: The two shook hands. ::

"Pleasure doing business with you Alek. Now if you'll kindly see yourself out, I have a bit of work to do before heading to Boca with Golden Girls."

:: As Alek waited for the elevator, just before he left, Maxine called out. ::

"Alek?"

:: pausing ::

"She's not JUST a woman. She's YOUR woman. And that's okay."

:: her feet looked down at the floor for a moment, lost in her own memories before her wild eyes shot up again. ::

"Don't let her down."

:: The doors covered his face as he began his descent. Maxine had much to do before leaving, and much to think about, but for now? She was going to finish this scotch. ::

"My Roguish Knight, for YOU...anything. I have installed a knock spell on your closet door that will activate from the inside. Two fast, three slow and you will open the door to your quarters in Ahadi."

:: She smirked and then felt somber. The last thing that Domino wanted to was betray him, but she was beginning to worry that perhaps his pure lust..and deep satisfaction from Malice's gifts had left him with his eyes closed. Perhaps she would talk to him in private while in Ahadi. Maybe he would have insight? As he usually did. There was so much to think about, so much uncertainty, so Maxine went back to her scotch and gave herself a moment to relax. She had time. ::

 

[Malice]

West Chester Airport- aboard the private jet

Everyone is accounted for, except Scion and Domino...

:: Malice said in an annoyed tone::

Lord Ravena turned to Malice, who was seated beside him.

Maxine has matters to which she needs to attend. She will meet us in Ahadi. She advised me of her tardiness with apologies and I have made...arrangements for her.

He raised his voice and stood quickly.

As for the rest of you...the staff is here to attend to your needs. I apologize for the subterfuge, but the true identity of this aircraft is too much for domestic eyes.

:: Diana finished her first flute of champagne, and nodded::

Fine.

:: she looks at Ravena::

Although, in the future, that girl needs to understand that her personal business is SECONDARY to official Hellfire business.

She always HAS been rough around the edges, and displays little more than a BASIC awareness of protocol and etiquette.

I have tolerated her so far, because of what she offers, but...since she likes to throw out "EXPIRATION DATES"

:: an indication that Alice had shared the events in the conservatory with Diana::

She would do well to remember that SHE has one of her own as far as I'm concerned.

I'll leave REMINDING her of that to you, Lord Ravena.

:: But even as Maxine was smart enough to cover her bases, and notify Ravena of her being tardy, AND not traveling with the NYC Branch, there was another one...and of course, it was Malice's own daughter, the one who should be the STANDARD to which the others rise!::

She sank into the leather seat next to Heidi with a sigh.

"Made it."

Heidi: Bloody Hell. What happened to you -- no, wait, let me guess. Did you get your knickers untied?

"I wish."

Haleigh grumbled, and Heidi went back to her magazine.

Heidi: Well, the Queen's pretty ticked that you weren't here on time.

"Of course she is."

And you had BETTER provide an explanation for your tardiness, and appearance.

:: Haleigh KNEW Malice did not like people being tardy. She disciplined Chrissy for it, and would not hesitate to do the same to Haleigh::

:: Malice , dressed in a white suit, rose from her seat, and moved to stand in front of Haleigh, ::

I do not travel with GARBAGE, Scion, nor do I expect my white court avail themselves on an official visit looking like groundskeepers from the dead factory.

Explain yourself.

 

[Black Widow]

Hellfire Jet

Haleigh took a deep and painful breath, as she prepared herself for the conversation she was about to have. The jet morphed in mid air, and Haleigh was fairly impressed. She crossed her left leg over her right, as she ordered a bourbon from the attendant.

Malice: And you had BETTER provide an explanation for your tardiness, and appearance.

She looked up from her seat with a rueful smile.

"My Queen, I beg your pardon. I fully intended to arrive here early, but I got tied up there for a while."

Malice: I do not travel with GARBAGE, Scion, nor do I expect my white court avail themselves on an official visit looking like groundskeepers from the dead factory. Explain yourself.

"Yes, of course."

She began, graciously receiving her drink. She looked at her mother apologetically.

"You see, I was walking in the Park, and I ran into an old friend. We got all caught up, it took longer than I expected. You'll recognize the name; it was Bishop. Not one of ours, I mean. It was the Bishop."

She drained her glass and signaled for a refill.

"And as for the state of my appearance--"

Heidi: I brought a change of clothes in my carry-on.

Heidi offered with a smirk, and Haleigh lifted her fresh glass in salute for the White Knight.

"My hero."

Haleigh quipped casually, draining this glass. She knew Heidi only offered because she saw some personal gain in it.

 

[Berserker]

Meat Packing District

"Well..I'm not about to start a school for wayward children, but it shouldn't be a problem. Unless of course, the person who ends up helping you is Alice. In that case, you can go fuck yourself."

Alek laughed then, genuinely.

"I am pretty sure after this afternoon, that the only thing Alice would help me with, is into a body bag."

Maxine stood and extended her hand, and Alek took it, shaking on their deal. He made his way to the elevator, as Max said she had some things to do before she left for Europe. As he stepped inside, she called to him again.

"Alek?" :: pausing :: "She's not JUST a woman. She's YOUR woman. And that's okay. Don't let her down."

He didn't respond, just put up a hand in a wave and allowed the doors to close between them. When they did, he exhaled sharply. Had he overplayed his hand? Max certainly seemed on his side, but he knew better than most that looks could be deceiving. But still, for now at least, he had at least one ally at Hellfire other than Seph.

He caught a cab, having the driver drop him at a bodega a couple blocks from his destination. Bag in hand, he headed down the street and cut through the bar to the apartment in the back. He took the elevator to the top, then unlocked the door.

"Seph?"

He called out. He saw her lying on the couch across the loft as he turned to lock the door behind him.

"Man, you were amazing today. When you were punching Jessica in the face, I swear I got hard. And that move with the tree?"

He had ventured deeper into the room, and could now see Seph's face. She didn't look good. Well, she looked great, but compared to how she usually looked, he could tell something was very wrong.

"Not feeling any better?"

He moved to the couch, and leaned down to kiss her cheek, sitting on the edge in front of her. He reached into the bag and pulled out a pint of peanut butter chocolate ice cream.

"I heard once, that ice cream cures anything."

He gave her a warm smile, but it was tinged with worry.

 

[Malice]

Hellfire Private Jet- on the way to Ahadi

"Yes, of course."

She began, graciously receiving her drink. She looked at her mother apologetically.

:: Malice eyed Scion, like a bird of prey watching it's next target::

"You see, I was walking in the Park, and I ran into an old friend. We got all caught up, it took longer than I expected. You'll recognize the name; it was Bishop. Not one of ours, I mean. It was the Bishop."

She drained her glass and signaled for a refill.

:: Malice's eyebrows lift, JUST slightly::

The FLATSCAN...MorningStar's true love...

:: Malice's face tightened, ever so slightly, with agitation::

"And as for the state of my appearance--"

Heidi: I brought a change of clothes in my carry-on.

Heidi offered with a smirk, and Haleigh lifted her fresh glass in salute for the White Knight.

"My hero."

Haleigh quipped casually, draining this glass.

Excellent, Heidi.

Get the outfit from Heidi's carry-on, Scion.

:: Malice commands in a cold tone. As Haleigh does so, Malice directs her to make her way to the lower level of the ultra luxury jet, to the large shower chamber::

Lord Ravena, your assistance is required.

:: Malice had discerned with her psi powers that Scion had been injured, and only NARROWLY avoided another body swap. She hadn't decided yet if Scion NOT dying again was a good or a bad thing. For now....::

:: She and Lord Ravena follow Scion down to the lower level, leaving the others in the main cabin.::

She's been injured, and needs to be restored.

:: Malice says to Ravena, still in a cold tone, and to HALEIGH, she replies telepathically::


You let yourself be taken...by a FLATSCAN!?

:: Malice was picking up the very FRESH memories and psychic impressions of what had happened, Bishop had stalked her with intense focus, and after MUCH preperation. He fully intended to kill her. Her FIRST instinct was to blame Haleigh, for leaving him ALIVE the last time she attacked him, but...::

I can't FAULT you for this, I was the one who directed you to leave him ALIVE. But since he wants to play rough, it's time to show that knuckle dragging flatscan that the Inner Circle plays for KEEPS. We possess power to shape this world! ONE MERE HUMAN can't prevail against even the WEAKEST among us!

:: As Ravena restores her with his magicks, Malice continues to "speak" to Haleigh::

One good turn deserves another.

:: Referring to the kitten, Perle, who was currently being baby sat by Masque.::

I can either brain smash him , or send one of the White Court after him. Either way...now that we have the genetic sample, HE is no longer of consequence, and the moment he decided to cross swords with ONE of the white court, is the moment he crossed swords with ALL of the white court. I'm sure that Alice and/OR Talisman would delight in taking him apart.

:: She thought about it for a moment::

And that runaway flashbulb, Delilah...up until now I've only TOYED with her because it AMUSED me to see her SUFFER. But NOW? I think it's time little Alexia learned her FIRST lesson in life, one that she'll NEVER forget...as an ORPHAN.


:: Scion KNEW Malice was serious. The White Queen decided that it was time to WIPE OUT Bishop AND MorningStar, and she could make it happen, even from where she was NOW.::

 

[Lord Ravena]

The Scion was tardy, and her dress was atrocious. Lord Ravena considered assisting her, but it was too late.

Get the outfit from Heidi's carry-on, Scion.

:: Malice commands in a cold tone. As Haleigh does so, Malice directs her to make her way to the lower level of the ultra luxury jet, to the large shower chamber::

Lord Ravena, your assistance is required.

:: Malice had discerned with her psi powers that Scion had been injured, and only NARROWLY avoided another body swap. She hadn't decided yet if Scion NOT dying again was a good or a bad thing. For now....::

:: She and Lord Ravena follow Scion down to the lower level, leaving the others in the main cabin.::

She's been injured, and needs to be restored.

:: Malice says to Ravena, still in a cold tone, and to HALEIGH, she replies telepathically::

Once downstairs, Lord Ravena can smell the human on her, can sense the internal injuries.

Who did this? Was it a member of the courts? Answer me Scion. An attack on us will be met in kind.

The touch of his magic was cold, in fact, he was lowering the temperature. How did he know the cold would help her? What else did he know? Haleigh's systems run more efficiently in the cool and she is healed quickly with his magics, even given a refreshing boost. An attendant assigned to Haleigh comes downstairs with towels and soaps. He is dressed much differently than upstairs. He addresses Haleigh.

Princess, please allow me to serve you in any way you require. I am aware that you are in need of cleansing and I am prepared to assist you in that regard. It is an honor to be of assistance.

With a nod from Lord Ravena, the attendant sets the hot water in the shower to the highest setting and activates aromatherapy jets to fill the air with relaxing florals. The jets start to activate and the shower is prepared to receive Haleigh...

 

[Persephone]

It had been a couple of hours since her encounter with Viper and she was still feeling worse for the wear. As soon as she heard the Queens and members of the Inner Circle invited to Europe had left the mansion, Persephone immediately left herself, going straight to the safe house. There had been numerous 'chores' set up for the remaining members inside the club to do, taking them outside the walls of Hellfire as well as making sure the club was fortified from possible attacks. It was a blessing in disguise because it meant Persephone could slip out without raising suspicion whenever she wanted.

After changing into a comfortable crimson oversized shirt, Persephone arrived quite a bit earlier than Alek deciding to take advantage of the quiet, isolated loft. She was lightly sleeping when the sound of the loft door unlocking pulled her from her slumber.

Alek: "Seph?"

Opening her tired eyes, she lifted her head a bit to see Alek enter.

"Hey."

Her voice was soft and a bit scratchy from just waking up. She propped herself up on her forearm as Alek made his way into the main living room.

Alek: "Man, you were amazing today. When you were punching Jessica in the face, I swear I got hard. And that move with the tree?"

A soft chuckle could be heard deep in her throat as a small smile appeared on her lips.

"If that got you hard, you should of seen what I did to her before."

Persephone joked lightly, it clearly evident that she was still not quite herself. Alek bent down and gave her a kiss on the cheek causing her to smile to grow as she gently ran her hand down the side of his cheek.

Alek: "Not feeling any better?"

"I'm starting to now."

Being outside of Hellfire made a world of difference. But being with Alek without worrying about spies using everything they say and do against them later was better than any medicine a doctor could offer. Propping herself up into a sitting position as Alek took a seat at the edge of the couch, the soft light of the table lamp glimmered against a thin gold chain necklace resting beneath the plunging neckline of her shirt; the ring Alek gave her hanging on the end of it and hitting low at her sternum. Persephone watched as he dug into a bag and pulled out a pint of her favorite peanut butter and chocolate ice cream.

Alek: "I heard once, that ice cream cures anything."

She returned his warm smile, tilting her head a bit to the side as she gently shook it.

"Mmm...my favorite. Then again, I shouldn't be surprised."

Alek had a knack for knowing her favorites--perks of being the eyes and ears of the Hellfire.

"Do you have spoons in there [the bag]? Ice cream is always best eaten straight from the carton."

Despite not having an appetite, Persephone didn't want to ruin the sweet moment by turning down his offer. So as he took out two plastic spoons, she moved so Alek could fully sit on the couch before placing her legs across his lap, sitting on him.

Fitting into the crook of his arm, Persephone took the spoon he offered her and moved it along the ice cream, scooping a small bit from the carton and holding it up to Alek for him to take a bite.

"Did you see Helena before she left?"

She assumed Helena would have some parting words--or most likely threats--before leaving for Europe.

 

[Berserker]

Safe House

Seph was smiling, so that was something, at least. He was expressing how impressed he was by her that afternoon.

"If that got you hard, you should of seen what I did to her before."

He thought about it.

"Hmm...I wonder if there's video somewhere. I'd love a personal copy."

He kissed her cheek and sat on the couch. She told him that she was starting to feel better now, and that brought a grin to his face. She sat up, and he saw the glint of a chain and his ring around her neck, falling low on her chest. He leaned towards her and kissed the place it hit on her chest. He shared a look with her for a moment, then brought the ice cream he'd bought her her at the bodega out of the bag.

"Do you have spoons in there [the bag]? Ice cream is always best eaten straight from the carton."

"Of course."

He produced two plastic spoons and handed her one as they settled themselves closer together on the couch, her legs across his lap and his right arm around her shoulders. Seph scooped up some of the ice cream and fed it to him.

"Mmm, that's really good."

He ducked his head so he could nuzzle her neck with his cold lips.

"But it doesn't taste as good as you."

He picked up his head and laughed, draping his left arm across her legs, his fingers absentmindedly stroking her leg.

"Did you see Helena before she left?"

He picked up his hand and scratched his beard.

"No, I didn't. I wasn't in the mansion, actually. Max wanted to see me."

He returned his hand to her legs, and tilted his head down to look at her.

"She wanted to have her way with me, but I told her I was taken."

He winked at her, and laughed again.

"Just kidding. She uh-"

The mirth left his face.

"She asked me to do her a favor. She is thinking of staying in London permanently. And she wants some of Jessica's DNA."

He pursed his lips together, staring into the mid distance for a moment, before looking back into her face.

"I know you aren't feeling well, but you need to know about this."

He squeezed her leg gently.

"I agreed, under the condition that she give me her backing, her support as I rise in the club - and her protection for us if things go wrong. And if she does stay in London, we are guaranteed sanctuary there should we ever need it."

He shifted a little, turning his body more towards her.

"If something happens to me, I want you to hold her to our agreement. You'll have a safe place to go, if you need it. The two of you together could take on all comers."

He paused a moment, looking into her eyes.

"You'd be safe."

 

[Persephone]

Persephone made a joke about how he'd definitely enjoy her previous fight with Jessica if he found the one at the conservatory such a turn on.

Alek: "Hmm...I wonder if there's video somewhere. I'd love a personal copy."

"Happened during the Blackout Party....i'm sure it's archived somewhere."

She offered with a grin. He took a seat on the couch as she lifted herself up to fully from laying down. It was then he must of caught sight of her necklace that held his grandfather's ring he gave her through the corset detail of her t shirt. He bent down and kiss between her cleavage where the ring hit low on her chest. Persephone smiled warmly, their eyes meeting as she ran her hand back through his hair. It was obvious to her that it meant a lot to Alek that she was wearing the ring. It was a symbol of his life and family, and now it was a symbol of their partnership, love, and commitment.

Alek presented a carton of her favorite ice cream and sat back on the couch. After getting more comfortable, Persephone's legs were tucked across his lap as she rested against his chest; his arm wrapped around her. Feeding him a bite of the ice cream, he approved while dipping his face past her hair and teasing her neck with his now cold lips.

Alek: "Mmm, that's really good. But it doesn't taste as good as you."

Persephone smiled lasciviously as her stomach butterflied at his touch. Despite feeling terrible, his touch still made her feel like a school girl with a crush. He let out a small laugh making Persephone smile broadly at how utterly happy he was. It made HER happy to see him like that. Persephone brought her face close to his.

"Or you."

She countered before giving him a short kiss. She asked if he spoke to Helena as he began to trace circles on her thigh, her eyes watching his fingers as she listened.

Alek: "No, I didn't. I wasn't in the mansion, actually. Max wanted to see me."

Persephone's brows raised with surprise.

Alek: "She wanted to have her way with me, but I told her I was taken."

Letting out a small laugh while rolling her eyes playfully, she shifted her weight against him, ribbing him.

Alek: "Just kidding. She uh-"

"Uh huh."

She countered with a shake of her head, still smiling. But Alek became a bit more serious as he spoke about why him and Maxine really met up.

Alek: "She asked me to do her a favor. She is thinking of staying in London permanently. And she wants some of Jessica's DNA."

Persephone gave him a strange look while cocking up a single eyebrow.

"That's....creepy. Are you sure you didn't meet with Talisman?"

She offered in jest, wondering why the fuck Maxine would want some of Jessica Marcus' DNA. Granted they were both similar in the fact that they were MysTech experiments, but still....taking someone's DNA? That left a lot of open ended questions. Not to mention if Diana or Alice found out, it would be a world of pain for Maxine AND Alek if he assisted.

"You said no, right?"

Alek: "I know you aren't feeling well, but you need to know about this."

He didn't say no. Persephone's tone became serious.

"Alek..."

Alek: "I agreed, under the condition that she give me her backing, her support as I rise in the club - and her protection for us if things go wrong. And if she does stay in London, we are guaranteed sanctuary there should we ever need it."

Persephone sighed, looking away.

"And what makes you think that Domino has as much clout as she thinks she does? Diana is going to Europe now to specifically fortify relations with the new Red Queen. If this goes south? There might not BE a sanctuary at Europe if she gets them in her pockets."

She felt Alek shift his weight to face her a bit more. Persephone's brows were furrowed in displeasure, as she stuck the spoon into the soft ice cream, not wanting to partake in it anymore. She knew he was trying to solidify their safety....but it was risky, especially now with the Queen's MEETING with the European Branch.

Alek: "If something happens to me--"

Persephone quickly looked over at him, their eyes meeting.

"What? NO."

Alek: "I want you to hold her to our agreement. You'll have a safe place to go, if you need it. The two of you together could take on all comers."

She gripped the nape of his neck, looking at him directly in the eyes with a unwavering stare.

"Don't say that. Nothing is going to happen to you. I won't allow it."

Alek: "You'd be safe."

Shaking her head.

"I wouldn't be happy."

She relented with sad eyes.

"I just got you in my life....i'm not letting you go that easily. You and Haleigh? You're the only two people who have stayed with me through everything, unconditionally, not wanting to change or hurt me. Not wanting to KILL me. I love you. I'm not going to lose you to Hellfire. I can't lose you....I can't lose anyone else....I WON'T."

She had outlived all of her former friends [MoE], teammates, and in Ava's case, family. She had lost The Six because of Ava's defection and Persephone's need to survive the aftermath. She had in some cases lost a part of Haleigh as well. The only constant in her life since arriving at Hellfire--since becoming Persephone fully--was Alek's loyalty and love. She refused to give that up.

Persephone was heated after hearing him so casually say it would be okay if he were gone because SHE would be safe. But she was also exhausted; the build in adrenaline from thinking about everything he presented her causing her to sigh out and rest her forehead against his. She clutched her hand against his jaw, holding him.

"I'll drag them all to hell if I have to."

She whispered between them.

 

[Black Widow]

Hellfire Jet

Malice: Excellent, Heidi. Get the outfit from Heidi's carry-on, Scion.

Heidi: It's in the Burberry in the overhead.

Haleigh nodded, and her attendant, back with another drink, started to reach for it. Haleigh slowly rose, sliding out into the aisle next to him, with a 'thanks' as she took the new glass from his hand. Her mother directs her down a corkscrew staircase to a pretty swank lavatory, bringing the King into the mix.

Rave: Who did this? Was it a member of the courts? Answer me Scion. An attack on us will be met in kind.

He said, applying his magic to heal her. It was cold sensation, but very soothing, like icy-hot spreading through her body. Haleigh gave him a serene smile.

"It was not one of us. My condition is a result of a very personal vendetta with one of my former victims. It seems he felt very vengeful about being left for dead."

Haleigh replied, as the attendant came down the stairs, catching Haleigh's eye. He was wearing next to nothing, and Haleigh was fairly certain he just offered himself to her in full. Her smile was passing obscene as she evaluated him. She drained her third glass of bourbon, and then handed it off to him before starting to unbutton her top.

Malice: You let yourself be taken...by a FLATSCAN!?

Her mother asked in thought, ruining the mood slightly.

A WELL EQUIPPED flat-scan.

She thought back mildly. She couldn't exactly blame Max, because there was no way he'd have stood a chance against her without leveling the playing field. She wasn't even really that upset about the attack. It had been well planned, well executed, and in all honesty, Haleigh had deserved all of it after everything she'd done. She fully expected to be paying for her betrayals until her very last death.

Malice: I can either brain smash him, or send one of the White Court after him.

Her mother suggested, and Haleigh was bit surprised that she wasn't getting harangued for this, and that her mother even cared to retaliate, but then she realized it reflected poorly on Hellfire and their Court if an attack was allowed to go unanswered. Haleigh dropped her top on the floor unceremoniously and started working on her belt. Malice threatened Delilah next.

If anyone gets to kill them, it should be me. However, an immediate retaliation is ill-advised. Our opposition will probably expect an impulsive response, and there's another concern we should take into account.

She thought in reply, kicking off her heels before sliding her shorts off her hips. She told her attendant to wait for her in the shower.

He used an EMP wand for the capture, and magnetic fields to handicap me. I don't know WHERE he got the idea, but it makes no difference now. With your approval, of course, I'd like to suggest a more devious strategy.

Her lips twisted into a wicked smirk, and there was a gleam in her eyes.

Let the neanderthal BELIEVE he succeeded. Let him share the 'intel' that his tactics worked, so it can be included in their ultimate plans on defending against me. I've been training with Alice, I can enlist her for assistance in adding magnetic conditioning to my workout routine. Once I've built up my tolerance, and our opponents have let their collective guard down again..... I'll teach them that unforgettable lesson.

 

[Berserker]

The Safe House

"Happened during the Blackout Party....i'm sure it's archived somewhere."

"And now that I am the interim Supreme Lord and Commander of the mansion-"

He grinned broadly.

"I'm sure I could find a copy."

They settled in with the ice cream, and he started to tell her about his meeting with Maxine.

"You said no, right?"

He went on to give her the specifics.

"And what makes you think that Domino has as much clout as she thinks she does? Diana is going to Europe now to specifically fortify relations with the new Red Queen. If this goes south? There might not BE a sanctuary at Europe if she gets them in her pockets."

"Then Max returns here with Diana and we have an ally we didn't have to risk anything to gain."

He shifted a bit towards her.

"It's an exit strategy, nothing more. Just in case we need it. Maybe we never will. But I'd rather have a plan..."

Just in case something happened to him, he told her.

"What? NO. Don't say that. Nothing is going to happen to you. I won't allow it."

He gave her a sad smile. Very bad things could happen to him, but he would do whatever he could to make sure they didn't happen to her as well. He told her she'd be safe - and that was all that mattered to him.

"I wouldn't be happy."

He tilted his head, and tucked strand of her hair behind her ear.

"Baby..."

"I just got you in my life....i'm not letting you go that easily. You and Haleigh? You're the only two people who have stayed with me through everything, unconditionally, not wanting to change or hurt me. Not wanting to KILL me. I love you. I'm not going to lose you to Hellfire. I can't lose you....I can't lose anyone else....I WON'T."

"I love you too. And you will never lose me, I will always be with you, I will always be yours. I just need to know that you'll be safe, no matter what. That you won't be hurt again because of me."

She rested her forehead against his, her hand holding his jaw.

"I'll drag them all to hell if I have to."

He smiled.

"And you reign in hell."

He pressed his lips against hers, tasting the chocolate still on her lips. He took the carton of ice cream from her and set it on the coffee table, then shifted to lay on his side on the couch, pulling her down with him and her back against his chest, wrapping his arms around her.

"Everything will be okay, you'll see. Just try and rest."

He could tell she was tired out. He didn't want to worry her, but she had to know - he didn't want to wait, in case something happened. Holding her, his concern for her health returned. He rested his chin in the crook of her neck.

"Maybe we should try and find a healer...a witch, I mean...take care of whatever this is."

He wrapped her tighter in his arms. And then something occurred to him.

"I don't want to alarm you...but did you ever consider...the nausea, the tiredness...do you think you might be...?"

His hand slid over her hip and came to rest on her belly.

 

[Fathom]

The Hellfire Jet

Heidi wasn't the first of the Inner Circle to arrive, but she was punctual, which was more than could be said for Maxine and Scion. The crewmen came out to greet Heidi when she pulled up in her deep blue Jaguar classic, and she supervised their handling of her luggage set.

She was escorted to the Hellfire Jet and boarded, and she found herself a seat. Handing her carry-on to an attendant, she ordered a bottle of San Pellegrino and sat down. She was thumbing through the Winter issue of Vogue (the UK version, of course), when Scion plopped down into the seat next to her.

Scion: Made it.

The Princess proclaimed, and Heidi glanced over, reached up for her water, and did a double-take at the state of Scion.

"Bloody Hell. What happened to you -- no, wait, let me guess. Did you get your knickers untied?"

She asked, with a patronizing smirk, knowing the White Princess had quite the reputation for sadomasochism.

Scion: I wish.

Heidi went back to her magazine, completely apathetic.

"Well, the Queen's pretty ticked that you weren't here on time."

Heidi said, her scathing tone making it apparent that she disapproved of Scion's tardiness.

Scion: Of course she is.

The Princess replied before ordering a liquor suitable only for an American hillbilly. The Queen approached and demanded an explanation. Heidi wore a smug smirk as she feigned flipping through her magazine and listened to Diana admonishing her daughter. At least she didn't have to worry about Scion ever becoming the King or Queen's favorite.

Scion: And as for the state of my appearance--

"I brought a change of clothes in my carry-on."

Heidi offered, taking the initiative to solve the problem, knowing it would be advantageous to do so, even if she had to burn the outfit after the Princess got done wearing it.

Scion: My hero.

Heidi gave her Princess a condescending smile and raised her bottle to the level of Scion's glass, then took a sip.

Malice: Excellent, Heidi.

Heidi's smile became quite obliging, as she nodded to her Queen respectively.

Malice: Get the outfit from Heidi's carry-on, Scion.

"It's in the Burberry in the overhead."

She said, indicating with a wave of her hand. Diana led Scion off, probably for more intense discipline. Heidi went back to her magazine, grateful for the return to solitude.

 

[Persephone]

Alek: "Then Max returns here with Diana and we have an ally we didn't have to risk anything to gain. It's an exit strategy, nothing more. Just in case we need it. Maybe we never will. But I'd rather have a plan..."

Persephone still didn't like it. She didn't trust Domino, and even if she did the fact that Alek would have to steal a sample of Viper's DNA to give it to Maxine in order to solidify the alliance was way too risky. If he were caught, he would die.

"I don't care. You're already on thin ice with Malice....and now Enchantrah because of me. You get caught? They're going to kill you--TRY to kill you."

She corrected herself. It would be a cold day in hell before she stood idly by and watched as the Queens killed Alek. But he insisted, saying that even if he did die that at least she would be safe. Persephone shook her head firmly.

"I wouldn't be happy."

Her eyes became glassy as she thought about all the people she did love that were now gone. She wouldn't let that happen with him or Haleigh. She would crack the Earth in two and drag Hellfire into the deepest pits of Hell before she let the Queens kill them.

Alek: "Baby...I love you too. And you will never lose me, I will always be with you, I will always be yours. I just need to know that you'll be safe, no matter what. That you won't be hurt again because of me."

Clasping at his jaw, Persephone rested her forehead against his and sighed out. Shutting her eyes, she knew no matter what she said he would go forward with the plan. So SHE made him a promise if the situation started to deteriorate.

"I'll drag them all to hell if I have to."

She whispered between them.

Alek: "And you reign in hell."

He smiled, but she didn't. As he leaned in and kissed her, Persephone pulled herself deeper into the kiss wanting nothing more than to live in that kiss forever. It was a safe place...where alliances and deadly plans didn't live. As they kissed, she felt Alek take the carton of ice cream from her and lean forward, placing it on the coffee table. Finally she parted away from his lips as he laid them both down, Persephone sighing out as she fitted herself against his chest, feeling his arms wrap around her from behind. He rested his chin in the crook of her neck as she stared forward, absentmindedly playing with the ring linked to her necklace between her fingers.

Alek: "Maybe we should try and find a healer...a witch, I mean...take care of whatever this is."

"I thought about it. But all the witches in New York know Karen or Dominique. They wouldn't help me..."

Alek: "I don't want to alarm you...but did you ever consider...the nausea, the tiredness...do you think you might be...?"

She felt his arms tighten around her as his one hand slid from her hip to her stomach. Persephone's eyes went wide at the suggestion that she might be pregnant; she turned her head in an effort to look at him.

"No! No...I...that's--"

Stuttering a bit before recollecting her thoughts, that was definitely something she wasn't expecting to hear. Sliding her hand on top of his, she cupped her fingers into his palm holding it.

"I'm not pregnant. That's not physically possible.....don't worry..."

Her anatomy was different, not to mention she was an immortal God. Having a child was not in her cards, at least not physically.

"If it WAS...after all the sex we've had? Yeah, i'd think I was pregnant."

She let out a small laugh in an effort to ease the tension SHE felt about the idea of being pregnant. But honestly, if that were the case at least she would know what was wrong with her. Right now she was in the dark about her illness and unable to do anything about it but endure it.

"I'm fine....feelin' better already."

Persephone offered the white lie as a means to keep Alek from worrying.

 

[Malice]

Elsewhere on the Hellfire Jet

If anyone gets to kill them, it should be me. However, an immediate retaliation is ill-advised. Our opposition will probably expect an impulsive response, and there's another concern we should take into account.

She thought in reply, kicking off her heels before sliding her shorts off her hips. She told her attendant to wait for her in the shower.

:: Was Malice expected to believe that Scion WANTED to kill MorningStar and Bishop? The White Queen knew better, and she SMIRKED as Haleigh declared the right to kill them should be her's. If she believed THAT, she would've done it by now!::

...Our "opposition" is off balance, and afflicted with low morale. The Birds of prey are nothing more than a side show, with only a select few of them even worthy of our attention, and The Six? Don't make me LAUGH. We possess the power to shape this world, Scion. NO ONE, LEAST OF ALL a pathetic FLATSCAN can stand in our way and go UNPUNISHED.

She thought in reply, kicking off her heels before sliding her shorts off her hips. She told her attendant to wait for her in the shower.

He used an EMP wand for the capture, and magnetic fields to handicap me. I don't know WHERE he got the idea, but it makes no difference now. With your approval, of course, I'd like to suggest a more devious strategy.

A simple mind scan of him will reveal that little tid bit of information.

:: It was strange, that Scion was not DEMANDING the resources and support she was entitled to as the White Princess. She all but DECRIED Diana for denying her proper support and preparation for her mission against Rose, NOW she wanted to...ERR on the side of CAUTION!?::

What do you suggest?


:: Malice looked ahead, at nothing in particular, as she leaned against the wall. ::

Her lips twisted into a wicked smirk, and there was a gleam in her eyes.

Let the neanderthal BELIEVE he succeeded. Let him share the 'intel' that his tactics worked, so it can be included in their ultimate plans on defending against me. I've been training with Alice, I can enlist her for assistance in adding magnetic conditioning to my workout routine. Once I've built up my tolerance, and our opponents have let their collective guard down again..... I'll teach them that unforgettable lesson.

:: THIS was her idea of DEVIOUS!? Had that HIT from the EMP wand left her with some sort of brain damage?::

:: Ravena could see the look of displeasure on Malice's face::

your suggestion is noted.

:: And TOTALLY insufficient. But why bother telling her? Malice already decided what needed to happen next.::

Now, pull yourself together. You have more than enough time to recover from your...misadventure, and As the White Princess, I expect you to be READY when meet with the London Branch's inner circle.

:: And with that, Malice closed the psi path between them, ending their "conversation" and leaving Scion alone, even in her thoughts, FOR NOW. ::

:: Malice stands up from the wall, smoothing the jacket of her suit, and walking forward in her white high heels::

To our chambers, my Lord, and from THERE? The ASTRAL PLANE. We have a little SIDE excursion of our own to take now.


:: Moments later, in the owner's suite of this luxury jet, the White Queen and King give a whole new meaning to a "conversation beyond the reach of prying eyes, and minds, as they meet on the Astral Plane::

To Ravena: Scion was captured by a human, a FLATSCAN, and then physically assaulted and left for dead. Not just ANY low level human...BISHOP, the star crossed lover of that light bright dolt MorningStar, and the father of their child, Alexia.

Does SHE [Scion] not realize the significance of this!? NO ONE will stand in the way of the White Court OR the Inner Circle, and go UNPUNISHED. Scion seems to have...suffered some sort of DAMAGE to her mind, as she thinks we should "WAIT" and let HER "surprise them" when they least expect it.

Bishop is less than a GNAT, and MorningStar? Up until now, I've only TOYED with her because I enjoyed seeing her SUFFER, but now, I think it's time they be REMINDED who wields the power in this world.

:: Continuing::

Later, while the others are occupied, I'll have you open a portal for me. I will pay Bishop a PERSONAL visit and teach him the ERROR of his ways, and HIGHLIGHT the folly of his existence, and when I'm finished, I will return here, and we will enjoy the rest of our trip!

 

[Wallflower]

Onward & Upward

:: Sitting in one of the plush white leather seats next to The Black Queen, dressed to the nines as was required of her by Talisman. While The Blackout Party had been her first official debut, she was now about to scale the walls of the mansion and head over seas, something she was trying INCREDIBLY hard not to be excited about, at least externally. Amanda had never been out of the country before. Hell, for most of her life she never made it out of East Los Angeles. Her world had been expanded in ways that only had rested in her wildest dreams since Talisman rescued her from her prison cell, but this was truly the icing on the cake. For so long, she had vacationed only in books, escaping into stories and consuming prose as if it were oxygen, but now? Cobra was about to create her own stories. ::

:: Amanda was CHARGED with energy, but to those looking at her, she sat poised in her chair, legs crossed, a flute of champagne in one hand, and The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi in the other. An incredible read about the art of strategy and combat, it had been required reading during her "matriculation" with Talisman, but it was a book that she often found herself picking up time and time again. ::

:: And now, this book was the only thing holding her back from squeeing like a teenager and posting up right against the window of the plane. Flicking the page with a finger, she looked up to see Malice who seemed annoyed at Scion and Domino's tardiness. But there was one person in particular, who seemed quite pleased, and that was Fathom. Cobra smirked as she watch the White Knight glance at her diamond watch and smile to herself in a self satisfied manner. ::

:: Suddenly Scion appeared looking like five miles of hard road, or in Cobra's past life, a good friend. Malice was displeased and rightfully so. Cobra oftened wondered about the way the others in The Inner Circle were so quick to be defiant, or require discipline. Living in Hellfire was EASY for Amanda, because she had come from nothing. She had been transformed by them, made better, faster, smarter and stronger. All that was required of her was her loyalty. Allegiance. Perhaps the others had insight that she didn't, but it seemed to Amanda that what Hellfire offered to HER at least, personally, was WELL worth the cost. Perhaps time would change that, but for now, she was quite content to nod, say thank you, crack a few skulls, and let the other's mistakes make her look even better. She minded her business as The White Queen admonished The White Princess. ::

Malice: "And you had BETTER provide an explanation for your tardiness, and appearance. I do not travel with GARBAGE, Scion, nor do I expect my white court avail themselves on an official visit looking like groundskeepers from the Dead Factory. Explain yourself."

:: Scion began to explain herself and her appearance, when The White Knight made a well timed play. ::

Heidi: "I brought a change of clothes in my carry on."

:: Amanda silently snickered to herself. Heidi was more like Amanda. They both knew how to play the game in the right way. ::

Haleigh: "My hero."

Malice: "Get the outfit from Heidi's carry-on, Scion."

:: The White Queen, King and Princess took their leave as Amanda took a few moments when nobody was watching to MARVEL at the amazing aircraft that they were now on. So many windows with so many VIEWS! As New York City began to fade into the background, a wave of excitement washed over her. She was about to go to a hidden nation of technological wonder, a hidden island, and a castle in Europe. This beat tea in the conservatory any day of the week. As Cobra's eyes looked out the window, she caught the glance of Talisman who seemed fascinated as well as amused by Cobra's look of wonder. Amanda immediately shifted to her more refined, elegant and mysterious persona. ::

[to Talisman]

"I'm excited. So sue me."

:: She winked at Talisman and did her best to keep her eyes on the pages of her book, sneaking glances of the landscape beneath her as their journey began. ::

 

[Mystique]

Alexis sat quietly on the jet across from Helena, porcelain legs crossed at the knee and very showy due to her short satin shift dress and ankle booties. She was looking at different properties in New York for purchase....ten million dollar penthouse here, thirteen million dollar there. The options were endless now that she would be rich again in t-minus four hours and twenty three minutes. Smiling to herself, her eyes lifted hearing Haleigh finally arrive.

Haleigh: "Made it."

Rolling them, Alexis looked back down at her iPad unamused.

Helena: "How unfortunate."

Helena quipped while scrolling through her phone unimpressed with Haleigh's arrival. Smirking, she had to give it to Helena....she HATED the fucking bitch, but she did appreciate her distain for Haleigh. It was the one thing they had in common.

Malice: "And you had BETTER provide an explanation for your tardiness, and appearance. I do not travel with GARBAGE, Scion, nor do I expect my white court avail themselves on an official visit looking like groundskeepers from the Dead Factory. Explain yourself."

Alexis chuckled despite how serious Diana sounded, Helena looking up from her phone and smiling at Mystique as Scion, Malice, and Ravena disappeared to the lower level to have a 'talk'.

Helena: "Now aren't you glad you're on my good side, Mystique. We wouldn't want Mother Gothel reprimanding you."

[with a smirk] "Sounds horrid."

Helena: "Indeed."

A steward walked by with a tray of champagne offering one to Alexis. Dismissing him with a shake of her head, she looked out the window as the plane began to ascend higher into the clouds.

"I texted Alek the tasks you wanted him to complete. As well as Persephone. They should remain busy for the duration of our trip."

She caught Helena roll her eyes while sipping her champagne.

Helena: "Aleksander is quite perturbed with me not taking him on this little outing. Perhaps this punishment will further make him understand the error of his ways. AND of course, test if he can keep his mind in the game when it comes to my poisonous little Rook."

Alexis resisted the urge to roll HER eyes. Helena was like the little girl on the playground who wouldn't share her Barbies. She'd throw a fit if another child even DARED look at them. Alexis actually LIKED Alek and Persephone, so this was tiresome and old for her to listen to.

"He's done well thus far. They can barely stand being in the same room together."

Helena: "Good."

She wouldn't comment that she actually HADN'T been spying on them per instructed. It didn't matter anymore anyway. Helena would be dead in 24 hours time.

 

[Berserker]

The Safe House

Alek suggested finding a witch to help Seph.

"I thought about it. But all the witches in New York know Karen or Dominique. They wouldn't help me..."

He ran his hand soothingly over her arm. There had to be something they could do, someone who could figure out what was wrong with her. And then it occurred to him, that maybe she wasn't sick at all, maybe she was pregnant. His heart leapt a little at the idea that she could be carrying their child. It seemed to unnerve Seph, though, as she stammered her reply, turning her head to look at him.

"No! No...I...that's--I'm not pregnant. That's not physically possible.....don't worry..."

"I wasn't worried. About that, anyway."

He smiled and kissed her lips softly.

"If it WAS...after all the sex we've had? Yeah, I'd think I was pregnant."

She let out a nervous laugh, and he returned his lips to the crook of her neck.

"I'm fine...feelin' better already."

"Well in that case..."

He sat up, and climbed over her to stand facing the couch. He scooped her up into his arms.

"Why don't we take this into the bedroom, and you can let me tend to your every desire..."

He smiled cheekily, then looked deep into her eyes.

"There wasn't anyone else, you know...while we were apart..."

He touched her nose with his own.

"Junior's about to leave me..."

He smiled again, pressing his lips against hers, and started carrying her towards the bedroom.

 

[Talisman]

Bored but Onboard

< After a few hours in her lab, a fabulous manicure and several flutes of hemlock, Talisman was feeling far more relaxed and less annoyed about the state of affairs she was about to enter into. She was annoyed at both Diana and Lord Ravena, but she decided that it simply wasn't worth her time to be annoyed about. She was an immortal, intelligent and fabulously put together magick user and the courts were lucky to have her. So if Alice Plain and Tall needed to be "Queen for a Day" in order to move the club's agenda forward, then so be it. Sitting next to Cobra, she sat, legs crossed, in her travel outfit as she filtered through screens on her holographic tablet, simultaneously admiring pictures of Vivienne Westwood's fall runway while reading an article on bacterial electrogenicity in the latest edition of Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology. Priorities. >

< Malice's annoyance at Scion and Domino's tardiness matched her own. So she flagged down an attendant and had a bottle of chilled hemlock in ice delivered to her. She decided in that moment, that if she was required to be in such close quarters with this motley crew of neophytes, she at least deserved to be buzzed. She popped the cork on the bottle and exhaled in a sultry tone, her nasal alto voice a little lighter. >

"I never tire of that sound.."

< Taking a sip from her flute, Scion stormed the scene looking like an absolute mess. >

"For somebody created in such a sterile and clean environment, she certainly has a knack for looking like she crawled out of a SWAMP."

< The hemlock was hitting her in the perfect way now. >

Malice: "And you had BETTER provide an explanation for your tardiness, and appearance. I do not travel with GARBAGE, Scion.."

< Kelly and Helena locked eyes almost immediately. >

"Too Late."

< Talisman mouthed to Helena as the two shared a giggle. >

< It was clear that somebody had given Scion QUITE the run around earlier. She had agreed to work with both Alice AND Haleigh, and she was beginning to regret it. All she could do was picture a muddy and tussled Haleigh leaving smudged fingerprints all over her equipment. >

"Note to self...the tutelage of Haleigh Davidoff will take place in ALICE'S lab."

< Before long, The White King, Queen and Princess dissappeared as Talisman kept an eye on the conversation unfolding below with her Omni Sight, but it would most likely turn out to be fruitless. Diana and Haleigh had a tendency to act like Jodie Foster in Nell when they were around each other, just standing there, staring, while a mental back and forth transpired. But it was comical to see. >

< Taking another sip of hemlock, she switched off her tablet, adjusted one of the gems on her manicure as well as the collar of her fur (planes get cold ), when she caught the look of wonder in Amanda's eyes. Talisman felt a feeling that was similar to pride and compassion, but through the icy cold lense of her own demeanor. >

< Cobra was certainly proving herself grateful and worthy of the opportunity presented to her many months ago. She had met every measure and exceeded it, and she played nice with the other girls and boys, including the Queens which was a bonus. And of course, she was primed and ready to torment and destroy Cameron King, so that made Talisman somewhat soft on the girl. >

Cobra: "I'm excited, so sue me."

< Talisman laughed. >

"Let's leave the suing to Alycia Barnett, shall we?"

< She rose her flute in a celebratory manner towards Cobra. >

"It's okay to feel excited, Amanda. This is the life you lead now. So embrace it."

< Talisman winked, before downing the rest of the contents of the flute. >

"So..what's the in flight movie?"

 

[Lord Ravena]

Some upstart flatscan had managed to sneak up on the Princess and delay the trip by nearly killing her. Lord Ravena quickly went from apathy to fury. Looking at Haleigh's attendant, he gave a simple command.

Make her feel better. Take care of our Princess.

Diana was displeased, and Haleigh was nearly killed, and the mood threatened the beginning of the trip. Lord Ravena had to practice emotional restraint. He was already frightening Haleigh's attendant. This was not his fault. The White King's face resumed its prior pleasantness.

:: Malice stands up from the wall, smoothing the jacket of her suit, and walking forward in her white high heels::

To our chambers, my Lord, and from THERE? The ASTRAL PLANE. We have a little SIDE excursion of our own to take now.

As you wish.

:: Moments later, in the owner's suite of this luxury jet, the White Queen and King give a whole new meaning to a "conversation beyond the reach of prying eyes, and minds, as they meet on the Astral Plane::

To Ravena: Scion was captured by a human, a FLATSCAN, and then physically assaulted and left for dead. Not just ANY low level human...BISHOP, the star crossed lover of that light bright dolt MorningStar, and the father of their child, Alexia.

Does SHE [Scion] not realize the significance of this!? NO ONE will stand in the way of the White Court OR the Inner Circle, and go UNPUNISHED. Scion seems to have...suffered some sort of DAMAGE to her mind, as she thinks we should "WAIT" and let HER "surprise them" when they least expect it.

Bishop is less than a GNAT, and MorningStar? Up until now, I've only TOYED with her because I enjoyed seeing her SUFFER, but now, I think it's time they be REMINDED who wields the power in this world.

:: Continuing::

Later, while the others are occupied, I'll have you open a portal for me. I will pay Bishop a PERSONAL visit and teach him the ERROR of his ways, and HIGHLIGHT the folly of his existence, and when I'm finished, I will return here, and we will enjoy the rest of our trip!

Whenever you are ready, we strike. NO ONE defies the White Court of the Hellfire Club.

Lord Ravena gave a devious smile.

I like the way you think.

After a 2o-minute trip to Mile High Club membership, Lord Ravena and Malice return upstairs. As he nods to his Queen, he takes the Scion's seat for a second, speaking to his Knight in such as away as would not be easily overheard.

My military and security advisors were impressed. They accept whoever I present because they respect me without question, but taking the time to compliment your decorum and professionalism is a step they did not have to take. Additionally, having an outfit on board shows preparation. I will not repay that preparation by having you retrieve an outfit someone else has worn. First thing in the morning, before the others, my personal tailor will take measurements and provide you with whatever designs you desire, as thanks from your King. Select as many outfits as you like. It is my pleasure. Enjoy the rest of your flight.

Lord Ravena takes his place by Malice and relaxes with chilled hemlock. The rest of the flight is largely uneventful and Haleigh returns looking refreshed, beautiful, and with a slightly altered gait that he recognized with a smirk.

The time flies and their 2.5 hour flight (as opposed to nearly eleven hours normally) was over. As they pulled into the tarmac it was 3 AM local time in the Northern African country of Ahadi. And what would greet the Inner Circle was nothing short of utopia.

Ahadi was a country of true diversity, with a solid mixture of people from around the world. It was not unusual to see the disabled, or metahumans, or differing gender/sexual/cultural expressions live freely here. No one was kept here; the truth was that essentially no one WANTED to leave.

Energy was free, investments in energy decentralization made each home, business, even the very streets into a solar panel capable of feeding the grid while supplying the core energy needs of the dwelling. Desalinization plants augmented the local water aquifers and provided clean, perfect water to all. As the plane landed, everyone would hear their phone chirp as they were informed of a 6G connection. That connection was free countrywide and of the highest quality in the world. Its speed and quality was almost intoxicating to the Scion. There was a dedication to clean energy and industry, with trees everywhere and the very air seemed clean and fragrant. There were almost no internal combustion vehicles in the country, with those few largely kept as collectibles and offset with flora.

Medical care, child care, education through doctoral studies? All free and supported by clean energy exportation, technical expertise on loan and a robust futuretech fabrication sector. The revenue was such that there was an alternative minimum wage paid to those who could not work or the very few who could not find work.

The place was not crime free, but crimes were investigated vigorously yet fairly and the evil among them punished. It was a reflection of its King: a place for everyone that outer society deemed not in the mold of regular or normal. All could address their King and as the Inner Circle exited the plane, the would find that the country was SPOTLESS and HOPELESSLY in love with their Lord Ravena. At 3 AM local time, three hundred ten thousand people lined the tarmac and the clean streets to the palace, with fireworks and streamers and confetti. The night sky was practically lit with celebrations, chanting (much of it in English, one of five languages that everyone was taught) and music. As their assigned on-board escorts helped them to the waiting open-air vehicles for the occasion, Lord Ravena turned to the group as the crowd went DEAD SILENT.

WELCOME TO AHADI. YOU ARE OUR GUESTS. IT IS MY WISH THAT YOUR STAY BE TO YOUR LIKING. IF YOU REQUIRE ANYTHING, YOUR ESCORT IS EMPOWERED TO ASSIST YOU. NOW, LET'S BE OFF.

A roar answerd his comments as he was placed in the lead vehicle, where there was room for Lord Ravena, Diana, Helena and Kelly, together. The twin escorts in the front seats were his own personal attendants. Diana would notice that their minds were difficult (but certainly not impossible) to penetrate. Their devotion to their Lord, however, was such that only death would separate them from him.

In minutes of absorbing the admiration of so many people in celebration, they arrived at the palace complex. Their attendants helped them out of the vehicle as the party was in full swing in the ballroom. Their bags were taken by security to their suites as they were seated in places of honor to see the presentations of song and dance and revelry that was taking place, all just for them!