The old order changes

[Persephone]

Alek through her for a loop at asking if she could be pregnant. Perfect. What every new relationship needed, a possible pregnancy scare, at least in his eyes. But Persephone knew it was physically impossible for her to get pregnant, so she quickly shut that worry down.

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

THAT statement took her by surprise, unaware that Alek would be so willing to become a father...let alone with her. That honestly spoke volume about what kind of man he really was. Despite being a bit flustered by the question, Persephone smiled as he kissed her neck. She was still drained for unknown reasons, but she didn't want to worry him so offered a small white lie to tie him over for the moment.

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

Alek: "Well in that case..."

Alek got up off the couch and picked Persephone up in his arms in one swift motion causing her to lightly laugh, her arms wrapping around his neck as he cradled her.

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

He grinned a big toothy grin and she couldn't help but be amused by it.

"You're like a little kid on Christmas right now, you know that?"

She joked with a laugh. The smile remained on her face as he looked into her eyes and told her he hadn't been with anyone else. His face was close to her, their noses touching as she dipped her face to the side, her mouth meeting his in a long sexy kiss. She assumed he would revenge fuck everything that walked, especially with Bianca in the mansion days before. But he didn't...and that meant everything.

Pulling away from the kiss, Persephone moved her lips down his neck giving it attention.

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

She was by his ear and smirked.

"Now we can't have that."

Her voice soft and seductive as she moved back to his lips, meeting his kiss half way as he carried her into the bedroom.

 

[Black Widow]

Hellfire Jet

Ravena: Make her feel better. Take care of our Princess.

He commanded, making the attendant uncomfortable with his harsher tone. Haleigh glanced at the anxious young man.

"Wait for me in the shower."

She told him calmly, and he wasted no time complying with her instructions. Haleigh turned back to Ravena and Diana. The King was not happy, and neither was her mother. Haleigh wasn't sure why they were so bent out of shape about this. Dying was not a big deal to Haleigh. Surviving a near death experience was an even LESS remarkable event.

She couldn't determine their what exactly provoked them about this, either. It wasn't like they'd given a rat's ass that ROSE had nearly separated her soul from her body. They'd had to restore her THEN, as well, but they didn't feel THAT attack on their Princess warranted immediate retribution.... yet this one did? Haleigh didn't understand, but she didn't seek answers either. She simply volunteered to take care of the problem permanently, but not right away. She needed time to build tolerance to magnetics, her singular weakness.

Malice: ..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.

Her mother insisted. Haleigh raised an eyebrow to that.

Murder is inadequate punishment?

She wondered, and then explained just why Bishop was able to hurt her at all. She proposed including magnetic conditioning in her training with Alice, and allowing Bishop and the others a false sense of security, letting them believe that their weapons would work against her.

Malice: your suggestion is noted.

Her mother's mental tone of deprecation was like being slapped in the face.

Noted, but not approved. SOME DAY you will realize how very committed I am to this endeavor.

She thought, aggravated.

Malice: 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.

Haleigh turned towards the shower darkly.

As you command, My Queen.

The attendant was on her before she even shut the shower door. Haleigh closed her eyes for a moment, and exhaled heavily. She turned towards him, running her hands up her torso, looking up into his gaze.

"You're sexy as sin, you know."

Attendant: Many thanks, your Highness.

Haleigh gave him a benign smile.

"What's your name?"

Attendant: Jordan.

Haleigh hand's traveled up to his shoulders slowly, then down his biceps.

"Jordan. I wonder.... will you fuck me dutifully, because you were ordered to?"

She asked, her hands sliding down to his wrists. He didn't seem to know how to answer, so he just called her Princess again, questioningly. She pushed his hands away softly.

"Get out."

Jordan: Have I done something--

"No, it's not you. I'm just not in the mood for this."

She said, her gaze downcast as she stepped under the jet of hot water. She watched blood swirl through the water, across the tiles to the drain. Jordan seemed reluctant to leave. Haleigh looked at him as she ran her hands through her hair, raking it back.

"Get me a bottle of your best Kentucky Bourbon, and a Porterhouse done rare. And find yourself a white tux. You'll be my escort for the duration of this trip."

She told him as she shampooed her hair. When she finished her shower, she dug through Heidi's bag and found the babydoll dress which most likely looked great on Heidi, but was shade too feminine for Haleigh's tastes. She cursed Bishop for ruining her outfit, and got dressed. After Jordan came back, Haleigh consumed the whole steak and washed it down with the bourbon. She returned to her seat next to Heidi just before the plane began its cruise descent.

They soon arrived in Lord Ravena's utopian country, at 0300 local time. A celebration was in full swing. The King welcomed them, and then they were led to a convoy. The Queens and Rav all piled into the first vehicle. Haleigh, with Jordan on her arm, boarded the second vehicle in the procession, and Heidi was quick to do so as well.

 

[Enchantrah]

What would have taken half a day of travel only took two hours, much to Helena's pleasure. They arrived early in the morning, but as they exited the plane it was like a home coming for the Gods. Leaning into Kelly, Helena cocked an eyebrow.

"Explain to me why Ravena wants to be a King at Hellfire when he is considered a King of his own country?"

Helena questions, both confused AND suspicious of the entire situation. It seemed very odd that someone could literally live like a King--be treated like a GOD even--yet want to play second fiddle to Diana. And lets face it, that's exactly what was happening in regards to the White King.

Ravena stepped out in front of everyone, the thousands of countrymen going silent as he addressed the Inner Circle.

Lord Ravena: 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.

Descending the stair case that lead to the cars, Helena climbed in and wrapped her red stole around her shoulders while looking out the window. As they proceeded to the palace, fireworks filled the air, and screams of joy and happiness could be heard for what seemed like miles.

"Are you always welcomed in such a fashion, Ravena? Or is this a....special occasion?"

She peered over at the King with an inquisitive look, a smirk soon following. The car finally slowed to a stop in front of the palace. It was huge, bigger than Hellfire. The doors were opened on both sides, Helena climbing out and standing tall as she looked around the estate.

"Impressive."

Flicking her blonde hair away from her face in a haughty manner.

"Although I would be MORE impressed if I had a glass of--"

Suddenly a servant girl appeared with a tray of champagne next to Helena. Glancing at Ravena with a sly smile before plucking the glass from the tray and brushing past the servant.

"Well then...."

Walking up the stairs and into the palace.

"Come Mystique, perhaps the Lord will have a gaggle of naked men waiting for us in our chambers, since it appears he's thought of everything."

One could only hope.

 

[Talisman]

< She was two parts hemlock, one part water as the aircraft approached Ahadi. Immediately, the hairs on Talisman's neck stood at attention as she felt a RUSH of power come over her. As a self proclaimed technomancer, Talisman was intimately connected to the technology around her. While some witches could draw power from things like an athame or a candle, The Black Queen could draw that same kind of power from a computer, a wireless connection, etc. The second that her power connection with the technological wonder of the country, it was like a shot of adrenaline straight to her CHEST. She wanted to punch Heidi in the face, kiss Diana on the lips and take a shot simultaneously. >

"I can give credit where credit is due, I'm guess. Impressive."

< If nothing else, this trip gave her a brief kick in the pants. Nothing ventured. Nothing gained. The place was like something out of her own mind. Constructed so ingenious and meticulously so. But the prideful part of her, the daring scientist, she began to think of ways to better it. It had potentially. But there was a deep part of Kelly that felt like there was something nefarious about Lord Ravena, so impressive as it was, she approached with caution. The reception was as expected. It appeared Lord Ravena was a man worthy of his posiition, true to his word. This made her even more unsettled. >

Helena: "Explain to me why Ravena wants to be a King at Hellfire when he is considered a King of his own country?"

[leaning in]

"Because he doesn't want just a country, Helena. He wants the world."

< This was a strong show of power. >

Lord Ravena: 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

There were servants everywhere. Kelly always felt uncomfortable around servants. She preferred partnerships. But she didn't want to appear rude. And the servants weren't half bad looking. >

"I would love to get a tour of this place. From the basement to the ceiling."

< She looked around as they were ushered to their perspected spots. One thing was for sure, Kelly's interest was piqued. As a matter of science, of course. >[/I]

 

[Lord Ravena]

"Are you always welcomed in such a fashion, Ravena? Or is this a....special occasion?"

She peered over at the King with an inquisitive look, a smirk soon following.

Lord Ravena smiled back at Helena.

It is like this. EVERY. SINGLE. TIME.

He laughs loudly as they continue, his smile beaming as the crowd showers him in adulation.

The car finally slowed to a stop in front of the palace. It was huge, bigger than Hellfire. The doors were opened on both sides, Helena climbing out and standing tall as she looked around the estate.

"Impressive."

Flicking her blonde hair away from her face in a haughty manner.

"Although I would be MORE impressed if I had a glass of--"

Suddenly a servant girl appeared with a tray of champagne next to Helena. Glancing at Ravena with a sly smile before plucking the glass from the tray and brushing past the servant.

You make this too easy, Helena. Challenge us.

"Well then...."

Walking up the stairs and into the palace.

"Come Mystique, perhaps the Lord will have a gaggle of naked men waiting for us in our chambers, since it appears he's thought of everything."

Enchantrah's personal attendant smiled as he followed along with the Red Queen. He spoke into a small communicator.

Ni Kwenda.

In the Red Queen's suite, a small group was gathered. They all began to smile widely, as the Red Queen's beauty and prowess was legendary among them. All of them wanted to be the one to please her the most. They answered in unison as they began to disrobe.

Tayari.

 

[Nogitsune]

The Hellfire Mansion - Somewhere Underground

Miss M had given her a gift, and she was unwrapping it. Slowly.

Emiko knew just how to cut him so he wouldn't die until she wanted him too. This one had been alive for hours. And she was bored.

She thought maybe Panda would like to help her, so she blinked into his room, but he wasn't there. She looked around at all this things. Her eyes fell on the little carving of a red panda she had given him, sitting on his bedside table. She smiled, but then her face fell. Poor Panda. He was so sad and lonely.

With a *POP* she was gone, and then seconds later she returned with another *POP*. She carefully placed the carved piece of amber, in the shape of a deer, next to the red panda. Now he had a friend.

Emi blinked back to her present. He was saying the usual things: why are you doing this, who are you, please let me go. She chose her blade carefully from the seletion she had available, picked it up, and made an incision from his chest to his belly. She attached a spreader and cranked it open, to hold the sides apart. Then she stood back as he screamed, and quickly before he could pass out, she snapped her fingers and said,

"Maggots."

Her plaything would now believe his entire chest cavity was filled with maggots. He screamed until he passed out, and Emiko stood there, watching, laughing. She unchained him from the wall and let him fall to the floor. She knew he wasn't going to wake up again.

 

[Enchantrah]

Ravena: You make this too easy, Helena. Challenge us.

"Be careful what you wish for, King."

Helena grinned as she walked past Ravena, patting him on the shoulder as she went. Pushing the limits was Helena's specialty, and she surely would LOVE to push Ravena's to see how far the good Lord would bend before breaking.

Each Queen and Inner Court member got a respective servant, escorting them to their own private chambers. Mystique was taken down the hall to her room while Helena followed her servant to her room. Upon opening the door, the servant took a step aside revealing a group of very attractive, very young, and very happy men standing in her room waiting for her. Helena's eyebrows raised as the door behind her closed, a wicked smile spreading across her lips as all the men began to disrobe.

"Now THIS is what I call a vacation."

Helena had QUITE the adventure, enjoying being ravished and worshiped by the men for hours. To say Ravena exceeded her expectations was an understatement. She would send him a fruit basket....a LARGE fruit basket upon returning to Hellfire. Speaking of Hellfire, as Helena laid sprawled out on the large king sized bed, she reached over multiple passed out men for her iPhone. It seemed she wore THEM out in true Enchantrah fashion.

"Amateurs."

Dialing Berserkers number, she looked at her rose gold Rolex noting it was roughly 12:30am Eastern Standard time. He would be awake, never the one to sleep early in all the years she had known him. And she needed an update on the Club. It was risky for ALL the Queens plus the majority of the Inner Circle to leave New York during a time of war, therefore she wanted nightly updates from her Knight to make sure everything was fortified and running smoothly.

The phone rang a few times, Helena growing impatient. Finally, he picked up.

"Aleksander....you know I hate to be kept waiting."

Running her hands down one of the perfectly sculpted bodies of her male playmate.

"I need an update on Hellfire."

 

[Berserker]

The Safe House

They had made love slowly, enjoying their reunification as if it had been years rather than days since they'd last been together. Seph had assured him that she was feeling better, and she could be very persuasive, but still he had been sure to be gentler than normal with her, taking things slow and easy. His hands caressed her, but he kept his eyes fixed on hers as they neared completion, and it was only as her body shook under his that he broke their gaze and his mouth found hers yet again, drinking her in. His hands moved to either side of her head and he was starting to stroke her hair as his phone rang. He lifted his head up.

"Fuck."

He squirmed over so he could reach over the side of the bed to grab his pants, and the phone in the pocket.

"It's Helena's ringtone."

He finally had the phone in hand and touched the green circle after the third ring, putting the phone to his ear, holding himself up off of Seph by leaning on his opposite elbow.

"Helena! How was the flight?"

"Aleksander....you know I hate to be kept waiting."

"Apologies, my queen. My phone was in my pocket."

"I need an update on Hellfire."

"Everything is secure."

He looked down at Seph and licked his lips.

"Tight as a drum. I performed a security sweep this evening, and no breaches were found. It's quiet."

 

[Enchantrah]

Alek finally answered, Helena's eyes narrowing slightly.

Alek: "Helena! How was the flight?"

"Uneventful."

Aside from Scion's late entry and subsequent verbal lashing. It was a highlight, but not enough to gossip about. Right now, Helena was annoyed he had picked up on the THIRD ring. When she called, she expected her court to answer immediately.

"Aleksander.... you know I don't like being kept waiting."

Alek: "Apologies, my queen. My phone was in my pocket."

Helena slyly smiled.

"And where were you pants my dear? Obviously not close enough for you to reach your phone in a timely manner."

She let out a low, throaty laugh while still stroking her hand casually down the torso of her man candy.

"As long as your sexual endeavours don't get in the way of the club's security, do what you will. Speaking of which....I need an update on Hellfire."

Alek: "Everything is secure. Tight as a drum. I performed a security sweep this evening, and no breaches were found. It's quiet."

"Quiet could both be good AND bad. The Six may or may not be aware of our departure from New York....we cannot take any chances regardless. Double up your efforts and enlist Emiko if necessary. She's quick enough to pop around in a short amount of time."

Helena lifted her hand above her head, examining her red manicure.

"And what of our heartbroken Rook? Is she pulling her weight in regards to security?"

If she wasn't, Helena would have Emiko pop her right off the Grand Canyon. Persephone could be as antisocial as she wanted as long as she WORKED. The moment she became useless to Helena was the moment she would be disposed of. That went for ALL members of her court.

"Or do I need to REFRESH her memory as to why she's allowed to stay within the walls of Hellfire?"

 

[Berserker]

The Safe House

"And where were you pants my dear? Obviously not close enough for you to reach your phone in a timely manner."

He could hear her laughing on the other end of the phone.

"No one knows me better than you, Helena. My pants are not...on my legs at the moment."

He looked down at Seph and smiled.

"As long as your sexual endeavors don't get in the way of the club's security, do what you will.

"Of course not - the club comes first, in all things. And thank you, Helena."

She asked for an update, and he let her know everything was fine, nice and quiet.

"Quiet could both be good AND bad. The Six may or may not be aware of our departure from New York....we cannot take any chances regardless. Double up your efforts and enlist Emiko if necessary. She's quick enough to pop around in a short amount of time."

"Yes, my queen. No problem."

"And what of our heartbroken Rook? Is she pulling her weight in regards to security?"

"Persephone? Oh she's pulling her weight. She had a little spat with Jessica Marcus while on rounds, but I brought her to heel."

He grinned at her.

"Or do I need to REFRESH her memory as to why she's allowed to stay within the walls of Hellfire?"

"No, I think she got the message. I definitely gave it to her."

His eyes locked with Seph's, and he gave her a look that said he wanted to give it to her again.

 

[Persephone]

Soft moans filled the loft as she laid naked and tangled in a mass of white sheets, Alek slowly moving on top of her in a rhythmic pace. With her leg hooked up around him and her hand gripping behind his neck, she felt herself reach her pique and ride the high to completion, their eye contact never breaking. Despite the fact that he was gentler and more tame with his movements, it was still amazing and made her feel almost normal for the first time in over a week. His mouth found hers as Persephone wrapped her arms around him, deepening the kiss. It was only when his phone rang that he pulled away.

Alek: "Fuck. It's Helena's ringtone."

Persephone rolled her eyes as she let her hands fall back on to the pillow above her head. She eased her escalated breathing as he reached across to his discarded pants and answered Helena's call. He dodged her question about not answering quickly enough with a smile. Then she could hear Helena asking about Hellfire security; Alek shifing his weight from on top of her as he got into 'Knight' mode.

Alek: "Tight as a drum."

Persephone looked up at him with a smirk, seeing him lick his lips. Tight was definitely the right adjective.

Alek: "I performed a security sweep this evening, and no breaches were found. It's quiet. [pause] Yes, my queen. No problem."

Persephone then heard Helena ask about her, the goddess' eyebrows raising with amusement as she awaited to hear what exactly Alek was about to say.

Alek: "Persephone? Oh she's pulling her weight. She had a little spat with Jessica Marcus while on rounds, but I brought her to heel."

Oh really?

She mouthed to him with a challenging smirk.

Alek: "No, I think she got the message. I definitely gave it to her."

Persephone's eyes narrowed playfully as they locked with Alek's. Oh so he wanted to play games? Biting her bottom lip through a salacious smile, Persephone slowly began to drag her finger tips down her neck, between her cleavage, and down her stomach. Her eyes remained locked with Alek's as she finally slid them lower until reaching her destination; her mouth parting in pleasure upon contact. With hooded eyes her breathing began to softly pick up, making sure to stay quiet enough for Helena not to hear as the conversation continued. Finally, she purposely let out a louder moan.

Oops.

She mouthed teasingly before grinning.

 

[Enchantrah]

Alek: "No one knows me better than you, Helena. My pants are not...on my legs at the moment. [pause] Of course not - the club comes first, in all things. And thank you, Helena."

"Good boy."

Helena praised with a grin. Now that he was over that Earthen slut, things seemed to be going back to normal.

"Remember to strap it. We don't need little Berserkers running around."

She warned in a 'motherly' way. However Helena quickly went back to the reason why she called: Hellfire security. She wanted to make sure that Diana and Kelly had NO REASON to fear Hellfire coming under attack. With Alek placed in charge of security, it was his main priority to keep everything fortified and running smoothly. He maintained that security sweeps were going fine and everything was under control. She then asked about Persephone.

Alek: "Persephone? Oh she's pulling her weight. She had a little spat with Jessica Marcus while on rounds, but I brought her to heel."

Ah yes, Alice was quite mouthy about that situation to Diana. She was pissed they were both in the conservatory when Jessica was 'training'. However the situation was rectified quickly by Helena.

"I'm aware. Jessica is a loose canon and Alice coddles the hell out of her. I explained I ordered you to run sweeps. Frankly I don't think Diana cared much."

The White Queen seemed to have more PRESSING issues with her own daughter to worry about. Helena then asked if Persephone was pulling her weight, otherwise she would GLADLY remind her of what happens to lazy, worthless members.

Alek: "No, I think she got the message. I definitely gave it to her."

Helena cocked an eyebrow at how he worded that particular phrase. Narrowing her eyes, Helena ran her tongue along her lips.

"As long as it was hard and painful."

She reminded him in no uncertain terms. One of her male playmates finally woke up, causing Helena to smile once again as she ran her hand down his perfectly sculpted abs.

"Stay diligent, Aleksander. I will call you for another update later."

And with that, Helena hung up the phone and tossed it aside. She smirked at the man as he climbed on top of her, ravishing her neck.

"Are we finally ready for round three?"

 

[Berserker]

Safe House

It seemed that Helena didn't care who he fucked, as long as it wasn't Persephone. And she even gave him a bit of motherly advice.

"Remember to strap it. We don't need little Berserkers running around."

"Aw, come on, who wouldn't want a few more of me around? They can call you Auntie Helena and run around terrorizing the staff."

He laughed, then relented.

"I promise. No glove, no love."

He waggled his eyebrows at Persephone.

"I'm aware. Jessica is a loose canon and Alice coddles the hell out of her. I explained I ordered you to run sweeps. Frankly I don't think Diana cared much."

He scoffed.

"Alice tried to threaten me by saying she was going to tell you. I told her to go right ahead - that security trumped her little training session."

Helena then asked if Seph needed reminding of her place, to which he answered that he had given her the message. Alek made sure to speak about Persephone like he had to keep her in line, to sell that they were still on the outs. Seph, however, objected somewhat to the way in which he chose to express that. She mouthed, "Oh really" at him when he said he'd brought her to heel, and he knew she was going to punish him for it.

Well, punish was a strong word.

She ran a teasing finger down the delectible parts of her anatomy, her neck, her chest, and lower. Alek almost dropped the phone as she started to moved her hips against her touch, and his jaw dropped as he watched her.

She let out a moan and he hastily covered the microphone with his hand, giving her a wide eyed look.

Oops, she mouthed, not sorry in the least.

He pressed his lips together and gave her a stern look before pressing the phone back to his ear.

"As long as it was hard and painful."

"She resisted at first, of course, but she knows who's in charge now."

His eyes looked skyward, she was really going to get him for that one.

"Stay diligent, Aleksander. I will call you for another update later."

"I'll look forward to it. And enjoy yourself on this trip. You deserve it."

Helena hung up.

He looked down at Seph and breathed out forecefully, then tossed his phone over in the direction of the bedside table.

"You are going to get me in trouble..."

He leaned down and nibbled at her neck playfully, then reached down and took her hand away.

"THIS time, I'm not going easy on you."

He grinned laciviously and aggressively began using his tongue on her more sensitive areas.

He picked up his head and paused, breathing rapidly.

"You want to moan? I'll make you moan."

 

[Wallflower]

The Trip Begins..

:: This was the stuff dreams were made of. Never in her wildest dreams did she ever think she was going somewhere like this! She expected it would be luxurious, but not as full as wonder as this place! She managed to maintain her composure, this time not caring if Talisman captured her reveling in everything around her. The environment, the people, the technology. It was beautiful. It was LITERALLY like something out of a book or sci fi movie. They received a LEGENDARY reception, and for a moment, Amanda felt like she was Eva Perron, assuring the people of Argentina that she was in fact in good health. Did it get any better than this? ::

:: And then she got to the palace. She still maintained a good amount of composure as Lord Ravena gave them all incredibly attractive servants to tend to their every whim, and when she heard Helena's request, she knew they weren't joking around when they said every whim. As they walked down the aisle, Talisman squeezed Cobra's hand and leaned in. ::

Talisman: "Take in the view, Amanda. But do not allow yourself to be fooled by the veneer. You of all people know..there is always something underneath even the most perfect of surfaces."

:: Cobra gave her a conciliatory nod of agreement as she was still enraptured by the sights around her. ::

"Of course, my queen. My eyes remain open, and my vision is better than most."

:: Cobra knew that Talisman was uneasy about Lord Ravena. Talisman was very selective about who she spoke her opinion too, so Cobra was more privy than most as to what the queen thought about almost everything. She didn't trust Ravena, she spoke of old magick and unbridled power. Talisman was watching him closely, and Cobra had to admit, she was as well. There was something to learn from him. He obviously possessed many qualities that impressed The White Queen, and Cobra had learned that the key to one's future within this club was through The White Queen. Amanda had been testing this theory since her arrival. And because Talisman was very prideful, Amanda sought herself to be the buffer. She would be the perfect representation of a court member, she would go with the flow, and she would figure out ways to spin words that Talisman sometimes spoke condescendingly or arrogantly. Amanda was not about to lose ANOTHER life. ::

:: Soon, Cobra and Talisman found themselves in incredibly posh and regal surroundings. A servant tried to attend to her luggage, but Cobra pushed his hands away. ::

"No no, that's not neccessary. Thank you, though."

Talisman: "That's enough for now, boys. But I will send word when I finish my next bottle of hemlock.. [smirking] I hope you boys aren't afraid of a little...blood."

:: Amanda laughed as the servants left them, their faces calm and serene as ever. Amanda appreciated Talisman's macabre and cerebral sense of humor. ::

"Well, Lord Ravena is CERTAINLY pulling out all the stops on this trip. I feel almost as if I am on a campaing trail."

Talisman: "It IS rather bold and center stage, isn't it? I have to say, I wouldn't mind being greeted like that everyday. And *I* deserve to."

"I shall post an ad for followers the second we arrive home."

:: The women laughed as Talisman helped Cobra put her things away. Most people didn't get to see a very compassionate side to Talisman, and there wasn't MUCH of one, but around Cobra she tended to be a bit more relaxed and settled in herself. Before long, everything was unpacked and the women sat on Cobra's plush bed, Talisman continuing on the hemlock train, while Cobra sipped on a martini. ::

Talisman: "Arriving here is a test for us. The technology contained here, the sacred geometry of it's design, it reframes my view of Lord Ravena a bit, though I am not sure in which direction. If anything it shows me that I must double my efforts, and in doing so, you must double yours. Should the partnership between Ravena and Malice sour, we need to be sure that we can step forward in such a way that it proves our value. There could be a need to recreate this technology, to evoke certain qualities that we stand to lose should the lovers quarrel."

:: Talisman was never not on. She was always thinking, always plotting. Sometimes these ideas came out of nowhere, and Cobra was learning to follow the strands of thought quickly. The Black Queen was worried that Ravena would be yet another HURDLE in her way, and that another MAN would undo all the work she was doing. She was ALSO, feeling a bit thwarted by Alice, and though she would never SAY it, Amanda could sense her current state of flux. ::

"Do you believe The White Queen would allow so much of her life's work to be in a place that she couldn't easily take it out of?

:: Cobra knew that Talisman, while brilliant, when left unreigned could become quite the conspiracy theorist. And when you were as smart a person as SHE was, most these theories could sound downright plausible, but she always figured things out, so Cobra would often attempt to 'lighten' things up, so that Talisman could center her thoughts. ::

Talisman: "I think it would be unwise of us not to consider all parts of the equation. Despite her raw power and persona, even she has weakness. You've seen how she responds to that mongrel of a cat Scion dragged in here..with no extensive plan in action to properly deal with the CAT HAIR and dander that is SPRAWLED across the mansion, I might add. That did something to her. It certainly made her more agreeable..."

:: The Black Queen wasn't wrong there. The dynamic between The White Queen, King and Princess was very interesting. Cobra had begun her 'education' before the arrival of Lord Ravena AND Scion, and The White Queen she knew then, was different than the one in front of her now. But Amanda didn't pay it much mind, perhaps because she didn't have as much at stake as Talisman did. ::

"You're worried that Scion and Ravena represent something bigger to her than she knows?"

:: she asked, genuinely curious. ::

Talisman: "I'm saying that something is awakening in Diana that has been dormant for a long time. Perhaps it will end up being a good thing. I haven't made a final assessment. These things are new to her, and it leaves room for mistakes. She will not listen to the things I've just said..in fact, it would only make relations between us wither. We all play our parts in The Sisterhood, and my part is to fix mistakes BEFORE they happen. Or be highly prepared and effective when they DO."

:: Cobra nodded. ::

"You are acting with the best interest of the club in mind, your highness. There is a shift in the balance of power right now in the club, that much I've witnessed. The more we learn here, the more valuable we we will be when we come home. The more valuable we show ourselves to be, the more poised we will be to make power plays. Plus, it's just good form to flex our intellectual muscle every now and then. Who doesn't want to be able to say I told you so."

:: Cobra placed her hand over Talisman's as she watched a flash of emotion happen in The Black Queen's face. It last a millisecond before reverting to it's normal icy state, but it was there. Talisman smiled a bit robotically at Cobra. ::

Talisman: "You are one of the best students I have ever had, Cobra. Perhaps I do not say that enough.You have a desire to learn..a hunger for knowledge that is so refreshing in a place like this. Most reach for the sword or the bottle, but you reach for the book. It is a dying breed of women who reach for the book."

"Uh..thank..thank you, Talisman!"

:: She was very loyal to Talisman. Utterly grateful for what she had done for her, but there was always a bit of awkwardness between them. The Black Queen had taught her so much, but in gaining that knowledge, she realized that a woman as smart as Talisman would be well versed in the strategic ways of keeping one blindly loyal. And part of Amanda thought that Talisman LIKED that she sensed this about her, and often like to toy with her. In short, when Talisman showed emotion in a soft way, it was somewhat of a bone chilling thing to behold, despite the sentiment behind it. ::

Talisman: "Thank you, for your dedication, Black Knight. I cannot emphasize enough on how well you will be rewarded. I should be going, I don't want to be out of the white court's SIGHT on this trip. But first..."

:: The Black Queen gestured to the doorway that the servants had left through before they met each other in the eyes once more. ::

Talisman: "I'm reminded of something that was recently shown to me. I know I spoke of knowledge being power, and I know I've required a staggering amount of dedication and discipline, but..these AREN'T the only important things in the world, Amanda. Sometimes..a woman needs to be touched. She needs a little FIRE. Because...sometimes that fire leads to something brilliant."

"My queen..I--"

Talisman: "Maybe it's time for you to feel a little fire, Cobra. You have a new, meticulously sculpted body. And I'm damn good with a scalpul. Aren't you curious what the new Amanda Soto can REALLY do?"

:: Amanda laughed in a coy manner for a second, before blushing. THIS was definitely a side of Talisman that she had never seen. ::

Talisman: "Just a little food for thought. But! I've got to be going. I'm sure the Inner Circle members will be gathering somewhere, engaging in Science knows what! Stick with Heidi, but if you can, please make sure that you work on your relationship with Scion. We need to be the court most willing to work with her. I'll see you soon, Black Knight."

:: The Black Queen left her alone for a moment, her pulse racing as she looked at the doorway for a moment. After a few second, she threw herself down on the bed, rolling around in the covers, shrieking with joy about where she was. As she laid underneath the silken sheets, from the small pocket of life that beat through the darkness under the blankets, she could make out the doorway. ::

"Maybe it's time for you to feel a little fire, Cobra."

:: The Black Queen's words rang in her ear. Amanda thought for a moment. She was untouched. Perfect. Pure. Unruined by the hands of a man or woman. She had risen above her predilections, but there was a part of her that was scared to open such a human and uncontrolled part of herself. ::

"BUT..it would be rude of me not to enjoy the amenities of such a place.."

:: Cobra had made herself one of the good girls of The Inner Circle. But well behaved women rarely made history. And if anything, giving into carnal desire might do exactly what Talisman thought it might, perhaps it would open up another part of herself. Allow her to be a better knight...a better member of HELLFIRE. Standing slowly from the bed, she took off her trenchcoat, stepped out of her skirt and headed towards the doorway, her full back exposed as she faded into the darkness. ::

"Well..here goes nothing."

 

[Persephone]

Alek remained calm on the phone as he spoke to Helena, only his facial expression revealing exactly what he was really feeling. He kept it professional in his usual way with Helena, making sure to show her how loyal and doting he was. She let out a audible moan to make him flustered, to which he quickly covered the receiver and gave her a stern look before returning to the conversation. Persephone smirked.

Alek: "She resisted at first, of course, but she knows who's in charge now."

Now THAT she stifled a laugh at, shaking her head with a playful roll of her eyes. Soon the conversation with Helena was over and he hung up, tossing the phone to the side of the bed. He let out a heavy breath, Persephone looking up at him innocently.

Alek: "You are going to get me in trouble..."

"I didn't say a word."

Her voice dripping with sweet sarcasm with a smile following suit. He reached down and removed her hand as his mouth made its way south. He said he wasn't going to take it easy this time....God she hoped he wouldn't. Her breathing hitched in her throat at his touch.

Alek: "You want to moan? I'll make you moan."

She grinned, her dark eyes narrowing into a seductive manner.

"Go ahead baby....show me who's in charge."

She goaded in reference to what he said to Helena earlier. Persephone's lips parted as her head fell back into her pillow, a soft exhale of pleasure escaping them. He sure as hell did.

 

[Seer]

Another world

<< And so they arrived, the chosen few of the Inner Circle, for this special trip, and the first stop of their jet setting adventure was nothing short of breathtaking.>>

<< The members of the Inner Circle were carried in a special convoy. Malice and Ravena traveled together, while Fathom and Scion traveled together, and Alice, Ravena's honored guest, along with her companion, Viper, were also carried in their own special vehicle in the convey.>>

<< Silently, Malice was truly surprised by the UNIFORMED emotion and mental chorus that she detected from the 1000's gathered. It must have been...NOURISHING for him, but for her, it was...UNSETTLING. The idea of inspiring humanity was not something Malice was interested in. Beneath this chorus that she "heard"...that was also the distinct collective awareness held among the crowd that to displease or cross Ravena, was a a foolish, if not terrifying mistake to make.>>

<< The people here, they LOVED their Lord, but even a benevolent dictator is STILL a dictator, and most of these people's lives were but a passing VAPOR to one such as Ravena, who had had MUCH time to adapt to the modern sensibilities of the world they lived in. He was not ALWAYS this way. Again, MALICE knew him, she knew his SECRETS, and it was those secrets, and the awe inspiring SYNERGY that the White Queen and King shared, that continued to propel them.>>

<< This was all quite a spectacle, one that did not end as they arrived to the sprawling 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!

<< a change (or more) of clothing, and Ravena's guests began to PLAY as hard as they ever planned and worked. Even ALICE and Jessica seemed to enjoy themselves in this most fine revelry.>>

<< EVERYONE found something to immerse themselves in. There were no limits, of height, OR depth, it seemed, and they were all ready to test that.>>

<< A while later, when everyone was comfortably in their suites in the palace, Malice and Ravena were together in theirs.>>

<< It was time for the two of them to put the cherry on top of a most marvelous dessert...of retribution.>>

 

[Malice]

Ahadi- Palace Complex - White King and Queen's chambers

:: Everyone was settled in, including Alice and Viper, both of whom seemed to take very well to this environment. Alice was being greated with a heroine's welcome, and Viper was being treated as the goddess she always believed herself to be. ::

:: Sometime had passed, and Even she had allowed herself to...loosen up a bit.>>

::But there was one last bit of unfinished business, and for Diana, some of the greatest pleasures CAME from business.::

:: Most of the others didn't understand her, not really. They mistook her vigilance, and ambition for being "upight."::

:: But as she told Emiko ...::

::FLASH!::

I AM who I am, and that's why I'm WHERE I am, and EVERYONE within these walls would do well NOT to forget that.

:iana stood posed, in the latest appearance of her white outfit .::

:: And after a whirlwind of revelry, it was time for the White King and Queen, to teach Bishop a lesson he wouldn't soon forget!::

:: Lord Ravena stood posed beside Malice, as they both looked into a shimmering scrying pool that Ravena had magicked up.::

::The saw an image of Bishop, making his way to his safe house::

She [Scion] wondered why we didn't respond to ROSE with the same severity that we are about to respond to THIS lowly creature.

:: She looked to Ravena, Malice had sent Rose on that mission, knowing she would likely fail, and be humiliated. She brought that on herself, Malice ADDED to that, when she DENIED Haleigh her secret wish, for Malice to kill her yet again. ::

Even a foe such as Rose is a potential ASSET, one that we will take possession of soon enough, and she unknowingly served her purpose, in my HUMBLING of Scion.

Beyond that, Rose is one of US, while Bishop? Bishop is BENEATH Rose, beneath even the WEAKEST among us.

I don't believe FOR A MOMENT that Scion wants the pleasure of killing him and Delilah. If that were true, she would'e done so ALREADY.

What happened to her, is not her fault. not THIS time. But I am NOT going to allow this...ignorant LOUT to defy ANY of us and go unpunished for it!

:: She continued to gaze at Ravena. He would enjoy this too, and then they would enjoy each other. ::

And now, my Lord Ravena, conjure a cloud burst, a storm, that will FORCE this wretched mortal to seek shelter SOONER rather later, and open the portal for me.

I intend to teach this flatscan a lesson he won't soon forget!

 

[Lord Ravena]

The Quarters of the Lion of Ahadi, the King of the land, Lord Ravena and his chosen Queen, Diana the Glorious
​

After hours of revelry and the realization of his joy to entertain, to lead, to INSPIRE, Lord Ravena was in his quarters with Diana. He did not forget their earlier decision and so he was prepared.

​

:: Lord Ravena stood posed beside Malice, as they both looked into a shimmering scrying pool that Ravena had magicked up.::

::The saw an image of Bishop, making his way to his safe house::

She [Scion] wondered why we didn't respond to ROSE with the same severity that we are about to respond to THIS lowly creature.

:: She looked to Ravena, Malice had sent Rose on that mission, knowing she would likely fail, and be humiliated. She brought that on herself, Malice ADDED to that, when she DENIED Haleigh her secret wish, for Malice to kill her yet again. ::

Even a foe such as Rose is a potential ASSET, one that we will take possession of soon enough, and she unknowingly served her purpose, in my HUMBLING of Scion.

Beyond that, Rose is one of US, while Bishop? Bishop is BENEATH Rose, beneath even the WEAKEST among us.

I don't believe FOR A MOMENT that Scion wants the pleasure of killing him and Delilah. If that were true, she would'e done so ALREADY.

What happened to her, is not her fault. not THIS time. But I am NOT going to allow this...ignorant LOUT to defy ANY of us and go unpunished for it!

Diana gazed upon Lord Ravena as she asked him to herd the prey away from prying eyes with a storm! With a laugh, he leaned in to the portal as he opened it wider and SPAT into the air high above their quarry and Malice watched as the drops multiplied, folded, multiplied again millions of times before her very eyes, the collected water forming clouds that darkened immediately and spawned lighting and thunder and RAIN. Warm, heavy rain and wind that would force even the most determined travelers to shelter and this, this one who did not know his place, it drove him inside as well. The trap was set as the storm ensured no escape and he nodded to his companion, smiling.

The web is laid, my dear. Time for the spider to toy with the fly.

 

[Bishop]

The East River

Bishop had torched the SUV, and was making his way to a safe house on the river side. He was trying to keep to ones that Delilah had been to before, in case she tried to find him. Self-satisfaction washed over him. Delilah and Alexia would be safe from Haleigh now. If nothing else, at least there was that. And if when Delilah found out that Haleigh was gone, she forgave him? All the better.

Storm clouds were quickly rolling in, and within minutes had opened into a downpour. But what was a storm? It was the least of his worries, and he continued along, unhurried. He was almost there, though, and soon ducked inside, clothes soaked.

The place was small and sparsely furnished. The living room had a kitchenette with a small table and two chairs, and there was a couch, coffee table and chair to make a living area, with a tiny bedroom in the back. He dropped his bag of gear on the kitchen table, then found a towel and peeled off his shirt, draping it over a chair.

 

[Fathom]

The Hellfire Jet

Heidi was draining the last of her sparkling mineral water when the King sat down in Scion's seat. It was a vast improvement, and as she lowered the empty bottle from her mouth and licked her lips, she smiled at him.

"M'lord."

She greeted in a coy tone, her eyebrow arching curiously as he leaned in so as not to be overheard. She felt compelled to lean in as well, and propped her elbow on the armrest between them as she closed to within a whisper's distance.

Lord Ravena: 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.

"I'm much obliged for your endorsement, and to a lesser extent, theirs."

Lord Ravena: Additionally, having an outfit on board shows preparation. I will not repay that preparation by having you retrieve an outfit someone else has worn.

Heidi waved her hand dismissively.

"Oh no, my King, you needn't trouble yourself over such a trifle. Of course she's going to stretch it out, there won't be any chance of salvaging it, but I'm not bothered--"

She started to say, but Ravena would have none of it. He insisted that she meet with his personal tailor, and gave her the freedom to do as she pleased. She very nearly asked him what outfit he'd like to see her in, but then decided that to be rather too scandalous a query, and instead she just thanked him with a gleam in her eyes.

Her attendant brought her a fresh bottle, and soon thereafter, Scion returned to her seat. The rest of the flight was uneventful, for the most part. Heidi drank no less than five liters of water, which didn't go unnoticed by Scion. But the air was just so dry up at these higher altitudes. Heidi was extremely grateful when they finally landed.

She was unprepared for the greeting they received. Hundreds of thousands of people were cheering and celebrating their arrival. There were fireworks, and streamers, and confetti, and a motorcade for them to ride in. Heidi tried to play it cool, but she couldn't help her smile.

"Quite the warm welcome..."

Scion: Yeah it's very rousing at first, but trust me, it gets old quickly.

Heidi barely heard the Princess, who started on the way to the second car in the motorcade. Heidi glanced at the lead car, and when she determined she wouldn't fit in that one, she resigned to ride with Haleigh.