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Nora Bellwood had considered just pocketing the money and failing to show up at the airport, really she had. Maybe if she was smarter, she would have actually gone through with it too. But above all, Nora was curious. Curious about who would leave someone a suitcase with those files and an envelope of cash. Curious about how they found her and why they hadn’t just blackmailed her. Curious about what exactly the Wolfe’s had in store for this select few.

So, Nora made her flight, with multiple bags and an itch looking to be scratched. She hadn’t told anyone where she was actually headed; that would have driven too many unanswerable questions. Instead, she had told the Santos family she needed some time off for her mental health and would unable to continue nannying for Eric. They had been more than understanding considering what she had just been through.

By the time her plane jostled across the Montana tarmac, screeching to a halt, Nora began to have doubts. Outside of Big Sky, Montana was not the place the rich and famous ended up. At least, not the type of rich and famous individuals Nora considered laudable. No, Montana was filled with hicks, mountain men, and C-list celebrities like John Mayer. However, she might have to reconsider her preconceived notions if the personalized chauffeur was any kind of hint at what was in store for her. Nora would have quickly replaced all fears of the most dangerous game if it weren’t for the note she had been handed on her way to her ride. Somehow, someone somewhere knew exactly who she was and what she was doing in bumsfuck nowhere. The eerie feeling of being watched that would cause the hairs on the back of her neck to raise and goosebumps to cover her flesh returned with a vengeance.

Nora had wondered what exactly was to be gained by the Wolfe’s inviting her to this estate. If they wanted her dead, it was obvious they had the means to have had it done quickly and quietly. And money was obviously not a motive, given the house towering ahead that Nora would have killed to own. As much as she wanted to just ignore the nagging feeling telling her to run, Nora knew she’d have to keep her eyes open for the time being until she could figure out why she was dragged into this Agatha Christie wet dream.

She couldn’t risk those files being out in the world like this. Not without knowing how they found out first. The Wolfe’s knew her secret, but that didn’t mean anyone else needed to. If Nora had to guess, all of the guests joining her would each be there for similar reasons, meaning they had secrets Nora could use to ensure her own being kept if the Wolfe’s had the intentions of releasing it.

Nora bid Heather Vandertulip goodbye as she made her way into the great room. Smoothing out her caramel-brown corduroy mini-skirt, and tightening her slick-blacked high ponytail, she steeled herself. Head high, shoulders back, consistent eye contact. She’d be damned if she didn’t ooze confidence; she wasn’t going to be victim here. Nora was not to be fucked with. Her black heels clicked against the tiled floor as she offered an easy, welcoming smile on her way to the refreshments. She gave a slight nod to the pair of individuals talking, a younger woman who obviously looked out of place and a bit uncomfortable in all of the luxurious accommodations and a man who was either fashionably disheveled or just in the desperate need of a haircut. She started to busy herself by mixing herself a drink.

Gin and Tonic in hand, Nora examined the room, her eyes moving slowly over the leather seating and high vaulted ceilings. It wasn’t exactly her tastes, but it did speak to the extreme wealth the Wolfe’s had. The woman’s eyes landed on the newest guest, a pretty blonde looking like she’d be more at home in some stuffy office than here on “vacation”. Nora met her gaze and offered her a warm smile that wasn’t exactly well-received. Might as well try and do some digging, and figure out why she was already making enemies.

“Well now, that’s not the face of somebody about to enjoy a month of relaxation. Don’t tell me you’re already tired of the view already,” Nora said with a smirk, gesturing to the gorgeous view outside as she walked up to the blonde.

The blonde, for her part, put on a smile after a moment, still looking over the room. She bit her top lip, which was already looking raw enough as it was, before nodding and allowing herself a shrug. "Not a view anyone could get tired of, I don't think. I guess I was just expecting... something else." She chuckled sheepishly, finally allowing herself to seem at least somewhat approachable. "Something... smaller, maybe."

Nora politely chuckled and nodded in agreement. “Yes, I don’t know what I really had in mind either I suppose. To be completely honest,” she said leaning in and lowering her voice as if she was telling her a secret, “I’m not sure I even know who the Wolfe’s are.” She took a long sip of her wine, looking back out at the sparkling lake peeking through the grounds before returning her gaze towards the blonde. “I’m sorry, how terribly rude of me. I’m Nora Bellwood,” she said, her hand outstretched.

“Yeah…” The tall blonde followed Nora’s gaze at first before her eyes fell on Nora’s outstretched hand. A thin blonde eyebrow raised, but she took the hand and shook it. “Haley Black. Uh… nice to meet you. You’re a guest here too, then?” She once again glanced around, eyes stopping on every other guest, obviously putting things together in her head. Did everyone else have files to be revealed too?

“I figured we all were. Although, now that I think of it, how awful would it have been if I had just tried to introduce myself to the host. I guess I should probably be more careful then,” Nora said with a chuckle. She had quickly picked up on the fact that Haley did not know who she was either, and had waited to introduce herself. It was probably a safe bet then she didn’t know the Wolfes either. Nora had been right then to assume she wasn’t the only one here under curious pretenses, especially considering how guarded the other girl was. “So, Haley, what is it you do?”

Haley rolled her eyes at the crazy idea of ever being a host in a place like this, but smiled anyway. “Careful would probably be good. A bunch of rich people offering free travel to a mansion in Montana to… however many guests? I thought it was a scam for sure.” She tugged at her black suit, dressed the part of a… “I’m a lawyer. I’m still not entirely sure if we’re about to be offered stocks in some pyramid scheme…” She narrowed her eyes, then shrugged. “What about you?”

A lawyer… that would make sense if she also had a suitcase filled with secrets delivered with her invitation. She’d have to be careful around this one. “Oh wow, that’s so impressive! Especially for someone so young!” Nora gushed. “I’m just a nanny. I love children so I guess until I have some of my own, I love my work!” She wanted to correct Haley on her guess. What kind of person handed out cash if they were looking for some kind of investment? Either she wasn’t going to be as big of a threat as Nora had originally anticipated, or she was playing dumb. “Although, if this is some kind of timeshare or pyramid scheme trap, I’m more than happy to sit through any kind of presentation if it means getting to spend a whole month here!”

“A… nanny, huh?” Haley furrowed her brow in confusion. Maybe she wasn’t playing dumb whatsoever. “Just a nanny? Are you, like… the daughter of some rich parents? Did you get some crazy inheritance?” She looked up at the huge room again, in thought, before shaking her head and glancing at the drinks. “Maybe it’s not some scam then. With all the outfits they wanted me to bring I thought only the rich were getting invited. How did you… y’know, afford everything?”

Nora’s jaw clenched a bit, but she kept her smile plastered on her face. What a bitch. Although, she was obviously digging to see if Nora had gotten the same envelope of cash as she had, without admitting it of course. Well two could play that game. Nora gave another polite chuckle, trying to seem completely unaffected by Haley’s remarks. “I do actually come from a privileged home. You know, both parents in finance and all that. I couldn’t imagine having to take off from work without having some kind of savings built up, but this seems like too much of an adventure to pass up on! You must be self-made though, otherwise you’d know how unsavory it is to talk about one’s financial situation, especially when first meeting someone. Plus, we like to call it upper-middle class, not rich,” Nora said with a wink and a smirk. “I wouldn’t worry about it though, there’s a lot of obvious tells for new-money families. We all have to start somewhere though!” Nora cursed at herself mentally. That might have been too harsh, even if she deserved it. “Oh you don’t have a drink! Can I get you something?”

Haley blinked owlishly, a darkness coming to her cheeks as she seemed to slowly realize her mistake. She smiled sheepishly yet again, reaching up and scratching an itch on her neck. “Wow. Sorry, I uh… didn’t realize how that came across! I am self-made, I was more…” She paused, biting her lip raw and looking at the drinks. “I’m good, thanks. I was curious about this being a scam. Rich people bringing the rich, or… upper-middle class into a fantastic environment, convincing them to pay out far more than necessary, then pulling them into a multi-level marketing scheme. Like… like this had seemed, until you had mentioned you were a nanny.” She cleared her throat, now a bit uncomfortable, and started to scoot back. “Maybe… a drink would be okay. What do they have out?”

This was going to be a shitty day. The wind was filled with ice as it tore against his face, ruffling the fabrics of his knitted scarf. Every part of his body was sore as he walked, ready yet unwilling to meet his fate.

His body trembled slightly from the combination of cold and emotion. A cough rattled his frame. Upon his departure Brandon had realized that he had no one to say good-bye to, no one but his cats. It had been a stark realization, really, that if he dropped off the face of the planet, not a single person would realize he was missing. Except his boss, who would probably spam his voicemail with angry “where the fuck are you” messages.

Black, sunken eyes and a pale complexion resided beneath his layers. Clearly, Brandon Caldwell was not doing well, and for good reason. Every time he closed his eyes those memories came back to haunt him – their faces and their soft, sweet voices.

His sleep was plagued with images of what they had become. Last night blood pooled from their eyes and rested on their cheeks. Maggots tore at their breasts and he could see one woman’s heart resting in its cage, completely still. He had willed it to come alive. To erase his mistake.

Then, when that failed, he willed himself awake. Back to reality. His dreams were merely a source of torment.

Okay, time to think about something else. Maybe he would listen to his favorite podcast on the flight. He might as well, right? His air pods were tucked away in the pocket of his favorite leather jacket, fully charged. Brandon tightened his grip on the green duffel bag around his left shoulder, knuckles whitening beneath the pressure. This was his go-to carrier for long distance travel. Helped him avoid the twenty dollar baggage fee every time. It was one of the many “perks” you got from serving in the military for a little while. The straps of a second duffel hung from his left hand, friction from the fabric burning his hands. He was hardly aware of the pain as he made his way towards the neon United Airlines sign overhead.

It wasn’t too late. He could be a better man.

He could fix this.

There was not a long wait at the baggage turn-in. He’d been assigned to a red-eye flight, for some ungodly reason, and as a result there weren’t a ton of people at the airport. Maybe he shouldn’t expect to receive great consideration from the Wolfe family, considering all they were putting him through… But to be fair, it’s not like they spared any other expense. Maybe they just hated him. At the very least, they wanted something from him – money, more than likely. It wouldn’t surprise him at all if this was some elaborate kidnapping scheme for ransom. Or maybe they were…. Involved in it, somehow.

Clearly they hadn’t done their research. Mommy and daddy weren’t going to bail him out of trouble.

At least the Uber driver had been personable. He seemed to be dedicated to his craft, what with the water cooler and accessible charging cords in the back. He seemed to sense that Brandon wasn’t in the mood to talk and didn’t try to force the issue.

He had spent the past week researching, preparing his mind, training his body. He registered his firearm with the county this past week and kept it in a separate hard case. He made sure to keep working out, just because it kept him sane… though he lacked the energy to run anything over two miles.

The noise of the airline blared harmlessly at the recesses of his mind as he pushed through security and walked towards the gate to his flight. He had no fucking clue what he was doing… what was his game plan? A fresh wave of anxiety tore through him as he shoved his hands into the pockets of his jacket. Brandon was lost in his thoughts, the crowd bustling around him. It was like he was standing outside of his body, watching the scenes of a movie unfold. Except this time he was in the movie. He was the main character.

He thought about grabbing some food on the way in, but he didn’t want to throw it all up on the plane. The Wolfes had oh-so-generously upgraded him to first class seating. He sipped at the water in his plastic cup and fixed his gaze to the window, staring at whatever was there. Suppressing a yawn, he put his air pods in and drowned out all his thoughts.

Maybe if he was more disciplined he’d crack open the laptop in his backpack and get some work done.

He didn’t need to be told not to trust these people. They had the power to destroy his life, if they wanted to. And they flaunted that fact in his face. He just didn’t understand their motives. After a long and arduous flight, which included one three-hour layover, Brandon took his possessions from the baggage claim area and… where was he supposed to go now?

“Mr. Caldwell?” An older man called for his attention. He was standing outside a large Range Rover, a polite smile on his face. What a creepy guy. He tried not to make eye contact as he helped load his gear into the vehicle, tucked safely away inside the green duffel. “It will be an hour drive to Flathead Lake. So it’s best you get comfortable. The Wolfe family has been expecting you.”

An hour later he was on a boat, and finally, he reached the residence. “I’m Heather Vandertulip, and welcome to Wolfe Island. Mr. and Mrs. Wolfe are delighted that you could make it.” He didn’t really have much of a choice, though, right? He was tired from the flight. Maybe he should have bought one of those comfortable-looking neck pillows people get when they travel around a lot.

The building itself was beautiful. Heather’s voice drawled on and on in the background. He had to admit he wasn’t paying too much attention to what she was saying. At this point, he just wanted to find his room and try to get some sleep. Maybe the nightmares wouldn’t follow him here. He certainly wasn’t in the mood to initiate small talk with strangers.

He wondered if the others were being blackmailed as well. Probably. He was very interested in the firearm he’d tucked away in his bag before meeting the butler outside the airport, but he didn’t have time to go back and equip it now. Also… it probably wasn’t a great idea to come off as hostile right off the bat. I mean, it's legal. They didn't say not to bring it.

Brandon entered the great room and realized he was probably one of the last people to arrive. But… holy shit. This place made his house look like a dump. It was beautifully lit with natural lighting, and an elaborately crafted chandelier hung from the ceiling. There was a second floor with a balcony overhead. It kind of reminded him of his childhood summer home.

Everyone was already engaged in conversation – it would be too easy to slip by unnoticed, if he wanted. He smiled briefly and waved vaguely to the group, hoping he passed off as friendly enough. Brandon took one look at the food and felt his stomach turn, but he headed over there anyways. His hands were starting to quiver and he felt himself grow more and more irritated as time passed.

He could really use something to drink right now.

ｄｏ ｙｏｕ ｈａｖｅ ａ ＬＩＧＨＴＥＲ ？
____ａｍ ｉ ｄａｎｃｉｎｇ ＳＥＸＹ ｙｅｔ ？

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▭▸▹ＬＯＣＡＴＩＯＮ . _{— ❝ G R A N D . room ❞}
▭▸▹ＩＮＴＥＲＡＣＴＩＯＮ . _{❝ @GhostMami ❞ — ❝ @Lord Wraith ❞ — ❝ @Panic ❞ — ❝ @Jade113 ❞ — ❝ @Syn ❞ — ❝ @Supersona ❞}
▭▸▹ＣＯＬＯＲ . #8a4d55
▭▸▹ＮＯＷ ＰＬＡＹＩＮＧ . ＴＵＭＢＬＩＮＧ ＬＩＧＨＴＳ

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_{look a little harder}
God Ezra was so extra...
But she didn't hate how much it pissed Heather off.
Going out of their way to make Heather's life and awful shit storm was both of their goals and so far they weren't doing half bad a job. The one time it called for the Wolfe children to join forces, of course it had to do with terrorizing someone.

Following a good ways behind her oh so ostentatious brother was the always quiet, always watching, always fashionably late eldest of the Wolfe children. A tall, very classy woman. Valentina Wolfe. Flashy in her own way as opposed to Ezra's dramatics but that was just how the Wolfe family was. Extra, obnoxious, rich and gorgeous and they made everyone aware of it. The little silver spoon, capitalist lizards and they basked in all its filthy glory. Just before she emerged from the hallway, she doubled checked her appearance in the reflection of a mirror embedded into the wall of the hallway.

Not a lash out of place, eyeliner as sharp as her $130 manicured nails and her way too short, white body con dress snatched against her slender frame. She pushed her long, almond brown hair from off her shoulders, fixed her posture and let the strut show the attitude silently radiating from her.

Six.
A good batch——
A mixture of guests, young and older...ish. Different races, different stories, different experiences. Their parents really knew how to make things more interesting than the year before. It was finally their year to participate and by the look of it Ezra was already familiarizing himself with them.

"God this family is so fucked up," she whispered under her breath. Stopping, her eyes scanned for a minute. Of course they were confused, conversing to ease the tension that tried so hard to settle in their being. Because when you were nervous the immediate instinct was to talk- sometimes too much. As Ezra made his gaudy entrance—of which she couldn't resist snickering at—Valentina remained silent. As little Vanderflower had finished her introduction, it was hard to not notice her usual displeasure in Ezra's behavior, she scurried away like the little busy bee she was to do who knows what with who. Be a secretary of estate or some shit. Whatever the hell that was. Why they needed her? Til that day Valentina questioned it. But mommy and daddy dearest always had some purpose for her. Always made it important they had her around and like the good little secretary of estate that she was, she was everywhere all the time.

Valentina took a step forward just as Heather was out of sight and before everyone had the chance to scurry off just yet, the Wolfe sister cleared her throat and her bitter sweet voice followed. "Yes, again welcome. A little late making an introduction here but I'm Valentina Wolfe. Never Val. Never Tina. Oldest of the two," she paused just making her way to her brother. "As my eccentric sibling here mentioned, please be sure to enjoy yourself. You're all definitely out of your element and that's understandable." Very much an understatement but too late to take back.

"Uh, yeah. Relax, unwind. Don't give my little shit brother here too much to drink or he talks way too much. Fair warning. We'll be looking forward to seeing you all and getting to know you later."

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Out of the million scenarios and possibilities Nora had run through her mind, she had not been expecting the whirlwind that was Ezra Wolfe. The ease at which he fluttered around the room, the air of better-than-thou that oozed out of him naturally grated on Nora. He was the type of kid who had not just grown up with a silver spoon in his mouth, but a goddamn ladle shoved in, and worse yet, he knew it. It wasn’t until he introduced himself as one of the hosts did she feel her animosity shift. If this was who was blackmailing her, then this was going to be easier than she had thought. Ezra wasn’t going to be a threat, and if all the other Wolfe’s were like this, she really didn’t have anything to worry about. It wouldn’t take much to best this manufactured pompous trust fund, in fact, it might even be fun. Valentina was harder to suss out. She was more composed, aware of herself and not looking to draw every eye in the room to her. However, looking as she did, that would be a difficult undertaking. Valentina had the manicured Instagram influencer look done so flawlessly, Nora couldn’t help but find herself a tiny bit jealous. If she was going to have to look over her shoulder for anybody, it would definitely be her.

Nora sipped on her drink, watching on in interest as one of the other guests, an older latino, tried to chide their host. While completely dumb to paint a target on your back this soon, she couldn’t help but admire the tenacity. Then again, the more attention he’d draw to himself, the less that would be on her. And for once in her life, Nora was okay with the idea of less attention. That was, until she could figure out why exactly she had been brought her here. As the rest of the guests started filtering out of the room, Nora finished off her drink with a healthy swig, before exiting as well, on the hunt for her own room and some much-needed privacy to come up with a game plan.

The package sitting on her bed as she walked into the bedroom of her dreams drew all of her attention. The last time she had received a mysterious package she had found files that no one had the right of having. That was enough to get her here, so her curiosity was peaked to what other kind of surprise might be thrown at her. Her lips pursed in annoyance as she looked down at the elegant metal mask sitting atop a pile of grey tissue paper. If the Wolfe’s thought they were being clever with the insinuation, Nora just found it a little too on the nose. At least it was a fox she’d be masquerading as, and not a full animal of prey. Still, the symbolism wasn’t lost on her. They were hunting her and they were more than happy to make a game out of it. Perhaps not, and it was just a coincidence that allowed Nora’s paranoia to run away with itself. But they had another thing coming if they thought she’d just roll over and take it.

Nora wasn’t sure why they were throwing a masquerade party. It seemed silly since all of the guests had already met each other. It wouldn’t be difficult to figure out who was under each disguise. She could hear as the party was being set up though, and realized they might not be the only ones invited to this thing. That meant the possibility of others being in on whatever the Wolfe’s had planned. She might not be able to get anything from the two brats that had already introduced themselves, but party goers, especially drunk party goers would be easier to pry information from.

Knowing that she was going to be doing her best to chat up whoever might fall for her wicked smile or long tanned legs, Nora decided on the shorter of her semi-formal dresses, paid for by the Wolfes. The long lace sleeves gave a modicum of decency, but the deep sweetheart neckline, tight bodycon material, and short hemline didn’t leave much to the imagination. She put her hair in soft curls but opted for a more daring bold red lip and dark winged liner. Donning her favorite black heels, Nora she looked stunning, but she felt dangerous and powerful. All of which she would need if she was going to get any of the Wolfe’s other guests to talk to her.

She slipped on her mask, elegantly pulling tendrils of her hair to frame her face before heading for the elevator. Nora wasn’t sure if she was early or late, but none of the other guests seemed to be milling around the hallways. Not wanting to risk the stairs in her heels, she clicked the button as she steeled herself for whatever hell might come next.

The day had barely started, and it had already been so eventful, whether that was good or bad for Marco was yet to be seen. Although, Marco didn’t mind being watched even if it wasn’t the hill he should die on so quickly into the game. Of course, that’s what it was to Marco, had it not been a game there would have been some clarity by now. Regardless of what transpired, Marco felt compelled to bathe himself. Not just to freshen up for the party, but also to scrub away the grime he felt invaded his skin from interacting with the Wolfe’s.

Upon entering his room, the first thing he noticed was the Wolfe’s did in fact not spare any expense in emulating his actual room. There was an alcove for a personal mini bar lined with his favorite brown liquors and Mexican cerveza. A record player with a substantial collection of vinyl’s sat adjacent to his bed on the opposite wall. The only thing that did leave him puzzled, but delightfully surprised, was the black and white San Marcos blanket etched with tigers stretched across his mattress. It was a nice touch, hell maybe some white people were culturally enriched.

Walking over to the turntable, Marco dropped the needle as he began to strip off his clothes. It wasn’t until the lyrics to Stayin’ Alive started to play that he decided to turn off the cryptic omen. The ample time allotted to them prior to their evening engagement allowed Marco to soak with a cigarette in one hand and a glass of bourbon in the other. Where would he have been had he not received that death sentence or rather briefcase and envelope? Probably the same just a lot less fancy and with no party to attend to unless you counted group therapy as a pity party.

Marco had gone three quarters a way down a bottle and half a pack deep when his pruning skin signaled it was time to get out. His eyes were fixated on the eggshell white box that housed the mask he was supposed to wear to the festivities. He wondered if it occurred to them that they were all already wearing their own masks so why have two? His fingers traced the top of the box before removing the top to reveal a Venetian Coyote mask inlaid with colors of gold and black. The patterns within the mask were just as exquisite as the color. Anyone would have been ecstatic to receive such a gift, yet Marco felt a lump in his throat as his mind raced back to the note he received at the airport. The game was very real as were the consequences of playing.

It took a minute before Marco regained his composure, never taking his eyes off the mask. He fetched his outfit from his closet which consisted of a dapper Alpaca and Mohair-blend blazer, Knitted Virgin wool polo shirt, black wool and Mohair-blend tuxedo trousers, all accompanied with brown wingtips. The last piece to the puzzle was the mask; slipping it on Marco could feel a shroud of secrecy, but also a hint of truth. He was hiding in plain sight, which only seemed to heighten the stakes for tonight. Before heading out Marco retrieved some last-minute accessories and the handkerchief Heather had left behind, Cinderella’s glass slipper.

He didn’t wait for nor did he approach any of his neighbors on his floor, instead he made his way to the elevator alone. It appeared someone else had the same idea as the elevator stopped on level two. When the doors opened, Marco perked up after seeing the ravishing femme fatale dressed in all black enter in front of him. While it might have been a trap, he couldn’t help but find himself succumbing to her intoxicating allure.

“Going down?” he asked with a slick smile and charming tone.

Nora quirked up her eyebrow at the innuendo, looking up from the nails she had been picking at before nonchalantly entering the elevator. She didn’t miss the way the man perked up when the doors had opened, she knew exactly what kind of effect she had on men. However, behind the mask she wasn’t sure she could exactly place which one of the guests it actually was. Still, if she was fishing for information, there was no reason she couldn't start now. She offered the man a smirk, not bothering to hit the close elevator button. “If I’m going down, then I’m taking you with me.” With a playful wink, she turned her gaze back towards the front of the elevator. Nora stood close to the man, their arms just a hair’s breadth away from touching. “So I see the Wolfe’s have an affinity for animals. I wonder, why exactly a coyote? You’re not a close relative of our generous hosts now are you?”

Marco wasn’t one who let opportunities like this slip through his fingers often. Men were dogs yes, but all dogs go to heaven. Taking note of all her seductive features, Marco couldn’t help but struggle to take everything in at once. “Don’t make promises you can’t keep” parrying her daring opener. If looks could kill he definitely would have been dead by now, the wink was just the final nail in the coffin. This woman was quite a ways off from the tall asian he was speaking to just before, something a little more his speed. Their masks were reminiscent of cats and dogs, so there was natural tension forming. She didn’t back down, only playing closer to the fire as she took her position dangerously close to Marco. “I’m afraid not my dear, coyotes tend to hunt alone while wolves are pack animals. What’s a sly fox like you doing here anyways? I’m sure we can spend our time better elsewhere than whatever this party they have planned” Marco said as his hand bumped into hers.

Under different circumstances Nora might have found the man’s quick wit charming. She always enjoyed someone with a silver tongue, someone who didn’t melt under her spell immediately. The chase was half the fun, and with this man, she wasn’t sure who was chasing who. But she was focused on one thing, and one thing only. Until she knew what kind of debauchery the Wolfes had in store for her, she’d have to stay on track. It wasn’t until he spoke did she pick up on the underlying accent, recognizing it immediately as the guest who had flirted shamelessly with Heather during their little meet and greet. Luckily the doors of the elevator opened with a small ding. Boldly, she leaned over to whisper into his ear, her breath tickling the skin on his neck. “Don’t be in such a rush.Waiting is half the fun...” with that she took the man’s hand, leading the pair outside of the elevator and into the hall of mirrors. The reflection off of the mirrors facing each other was distracting and reminded Nora of a funhouse, especially with the dim lights only illuminated by the candlelight. Despite herself, and the situation she found herself in, Nora couldn’t help but feel her excitement rise. If nothing else, the Wolfes knew how to throw one hell of a party. “Well then, care to join me for a drink?” she asked over her shoulder at the man she was leading along.

The chime of the elevator broke the silence, how could he forget? All he had to do was press the emergency button and the elevator would have stopped there. Although in an estate like this, there must have been contingencies set in place to prevent that. Marco still had no knowledge of who was under the fox mask, part of him didn’t want to know. Her breath sent shivers down his body turning his skin into goosebumps. While his tongue tried to catch up with his mind, her hand enveloped his as she tugged him out of the elevator. It seemed as though his night was just beginning, an extravagant beginning to the start of the end. With so many mirrors surrounding them, Marco couldn’t help but notice every angle and blindspot solicited by the reflections. “So is this the part where you ask me how your dress looks?” already planning his response ahead of time. “Sure, do you like your men like you like your liquor?” asking a question of his own.

Nora admired the man’s persistence. It seemed like he wasn’t willing to let go of their little game. Not one to lose, and hoping she might get him tangled up enough to spill some information, she stopped from leading him down the hallway towards the rest of the party. She turned and faced him with another smirk. “Well… I do like my liquor neat most of the time.” she said, taking her time to slowly straighten out his collar, letting her fingers just barely graze the edge of his neck as she looked up at him from under her lashes. “However, when its good quality and I’m feeling a bit more dangerous, I do like my liquor hard.”

The lights and load murmurs could be heard and seen from just out of range, they were getting close to the main floor now. The fox had other plans, not wanting the game of cat and mouse to end just yet. Again she attacked his skin, this time with the touch of her fingers on his neck. It wasn’t enough, she certainly had a knack for teasing which left him voracious for something more. “I think I have something like that back in my room, but I tend to like my drinks both shaken and stirred” he said as he took his finger and pushed a stray curl out of her face and tucked it behind her ear. “So which one of the 3 girls are you? I didn’t get your name...just half your face” he asked trying to forage for some information.

“I’m disappointed in your skills of observation. Not very useful for a potential partner to deal with the Wolfes. I’m obviously not the skittish blonde...what was her name,” Nora said, pretending to think. “Haley I think… And I never got the other little girl’s name, then again I doubt you did either. You were very busy protecting the honor of our cruise director,” she quipped sarcastically. “I’m sure we’ll get to know each other soon enough. I’m Nora. Nora Bellwood. And you’d be?”

“You wound me with your words, so quick to disarm me” Marco said “I concede though, I was distracted by that Ezra character.” The mention of heather triggered his memory from earlier and the handkerchief he had tucked within his blazer. “I don’t think there’s much honor there” Marco said testing the waters, wondering if she would pursue his bit of knowledge. “Nora, that’s a pretty name if only I could match your face with the name” he said playfully, “I’m Marco, Marco Ronquillo” laying on the accent thick when rolling his r’s.

At the mention of the flamboyant Wolfe, Nora felt herself scowling just a bit, but she was intrigued by what he had said about Heather’s apparent lack of honor. “And what makes you think Miss Vandertulip isn’t as principled as she’d have us believe?” she asked. His name didn’t ring any bells off for Nora just as Haley’s hadn’t. It seems as if they were all really strangers after all.

Marco caught her scowl no matter how small it was, “That’s a new look, it still suits you.” She did pick up on what he was putting down, “For as professional as she is I don’t think she knows how to separate work from pleasure. Guess that’s what happens when you’re too high strung in this environment” his lips were loose, only to see if he could trust this woman.

Nora was surprised at this new revelation. If he was insinuating what she thought he was insinuating then she wasn’t the only one with skeletons in her closet. Originally she had planned on prying whatever information she could out of the other guests before leaving them behind to fend for themselves. Having an ally, at least for the time being, might actually be the safer move. “Well Marco, I might have been too quick to judge you after all. With secrets like that I might have to keep you around for more than your good looks,” she said. Nora thought about revealing what was in her clutch, but there were too many prying eyes around now. She didn’t want to know what happened to the guests who didn’t play by the rules. The next time they were alone, however, she’d let him in on it.

A waiter interrupted the two, carrying a tray of bubbly in glass flutes. “From the actual Champagne region of France,” he says from behind his mask. Nora doesn’t hesitate to take a flute, raising it up to Marco with a wink. “Too a fruitful future partnership,” she said before downing the entire thing in one long drink. It was a party after all. She replaced the empty glass, grabbing two more with a nod towards the waiter. Handing the second glass to Marco, she’d take this next one a bit slower, something to sip on as they entered the rest of the party.

It wasn’t the place or time to discuss further secrets. The closer they got to the main room the less they could speak so freely. “I have a few other tricks up my sleeve, I hope you’re not just a pretty face yourself” he said as they were the first two to make it to the party. Marco took a flute for himself and toasted her glass, he was more skeptical about the champagne that she was. While it was impressive to see a girl with such vigor for drinking, Marco couldn’t help but stop her from downing the second flute. “I think you should slow down, champagne always has a way of sneaking up on you” he said keeping his own down by his waist.

---

Ezra Wolfe. A welcome, albeit somewhat annoying distraction, Better than letting her flub of a social interaction sit in silence. She avoids picking up a drink, holding her briefcase close and watching carefully as the boy prances about. Not only was he clearly born in wealth, cradled in wealth, blanketed and showered and fed with wealth, but he was also just a complete showman. Normally that combination works, a little class to the show, but for him... not at all. Heather, once a bit grating in her own right, seemed to reel him in just a bit, which was enough for Haley to mentally thank the poor woman for having to put up with him.

Then again, this was all just a show, anyway. All the guests likely had sins hanging above their heads. She was no different. Enough money and blackmail will get anyone to come someplace like this, but why... these people? A nanny, even? Nobody important, really, but not anyone completely forgettable. If it had been a group of lonely homeless people, with no family, friends, or contacts, then this would make at least some sense, no matter how suspicious. So what was the plan here...? Haley shook her head as welcomings continued, looking down at the briefcase held over her hips, as if hiding her vulnerabilities subconsciously. She never was any good at socializing, but now, with what's been thrust over her?

Guests continued to talk, but Haley was done with conversation. She couldn't think straight, for obvious reasons, so after a few minutes of awkward standing around, the blonde in her black business suit hurried towards a staircase. She wasn't the first to leave, but she'd make sure not to hang around, dress shoes' clacking muffled by fine carpets. This place was a bit too rich. Didn't matter. Haley made it to her room and had to put in effort to avoid slamming the door behind her. She could do this. She'd have to do this. For those that she cared about, the truth... would have to stay here.

---

“I guess you’re the first.”

The first for what? Or was he being ironic, since Brandon was the very last to arrive? The unwarranted comment was successful in putting him on edge. Brandon held an old fashioned in his hand, untouched at the moment of the Wolfes’ arrival, and he took the drink as a shot when Ezra began prowling the room. His hands shook as he placed the glass back onto the table.The Wolfe boy was bright as a spotlight, composed of a gaudy fire that was rather unappealing to Brandon’s taste. Gross. Still, there was something to be said about being unapologetically yourself.

They were part of the elitist class. Ezra was soft and feminine for a man, and though he could deal out punishment, he would crack without political influence and power. Here Ezra was in control, here he could flaunt without fear of consequence, and so he owned the room. His sister was beautiful, and if Ezra was a spotlight, she was a room of dimly lit candles. Dark and exotic. She was captivating, and yet, he was unsurprised by her. She reminded Brandon of every other heiress he had met during his life: hot as hell, but (more than likely) manipulative as fuck. She flaunted attitude for no reason other than wanting to be a strong, independent woman.

Well, such was the day and age. It wasn’t easy for women anymore, having to balance the traditional female role with the pressures of third wave feminism. Especially when you had everything to live up to… her parents being successful billionaires. He could relate to that, at least. It was a really tough position for a woman to be in. The societal expectations from both ends of the spectrum cancelled each other out: the toxic end of feminism shamed women who valued traditional roles, and those who chose to become career women harbored guilt and emotional distress for neglecting their families.

He was so focused on the Wolfe children that he’d hardly taken notice of the other visitors. People were beginning to file out of the room - thank goodness, he could feel himself becoming more and more of an asshole by the second. Ezra was extremely irritating, which was icing on the shitty cake of being here at all. Brandon was eager to get back to his luggage, maybe relax a bit before dinner. Maybe some whiskey would calm him down.

He watched the altercation between the Wolfe son and the hispanic looking man briefly before making his exit and walking towards the third floor. His knee was starting to throb, so he decided to take the elevator. It would be wise to get to know the other patrons. They were all in this together, after all, and there were more of them than there were Wolfe. Just… he’d make more of an effort at dinner. He wasn’t feeling himself right now.

---

A long, warm jetted bath with plenty of shampoo and conditioner later, Haley dressed slowly in preparation for the night's... 'welcome party.' If there was some kind of scheme, which there obviously was, then it would likely show up tonight. It mattered what she looked like, and given the strange, colorful hat and mask, it would not be hard to... stand out. Haley pulled out her formal dress, which oddly matched, as if the mask had been made for her, and slowly pulled it on. With her ensemble together, complete with cherry red flats and matching lipstick, Haley was... mostly prepared for what was to come. It wasn't exactly her style, this much red, but... it would help remind her of why she's here.

Sighing into the mirror and brushing the hair flowing out of her hat, Haley looked back, towards the door. It was time.

---

A double shot of whiskey did just the trick. Brandon took his time in the shower, skin flushing slight pink from the heat. The liquor lulled him into a state of ease, curbing the worst of his anxieties. He could forget those memories from that horrific night, at least for a little while.

This event was obviously some kind of a trick - his gut told him to stay away from the party this evening, that something bad was going to happen. And, like mother always said, only a fool ignored their instincts. ’Well, mom, looks like you raised the biggest fool in the family. Brandon was going to play right into their hand.

He wasn’t too worried. Caldwells were notorious for their ability to squeeze their way out of trouble. He would embrace the role of the fool, making his mask and attire all the more appropriate.

It was time to go. Brandon swallowed the two pills in the palm of his hand and chased it down with water. The door clicked shut behind him and echoed through the hall, ominous.

---

Haley stepped outside of her room with a nervous, conceited humming. There was no tune, no real purpose or rhythm, just a constant, quiet hum of anxiety. As a lawyer, she should be dressing more appropriately. She'd brought along her suit jacket along with her dress, in the hopes of wearing that most of her time instead. And yet... the mask fit her dress, and would look out of place combined with her jacket, so it almost felt as if she was being forced into discomfort. Intentional...? Maybe.

She shook her head, walking towards the staircase. She never was one for elevators, anyway, and especially not if it was just one floor down. She paused as the smell of whiskey hit her, however, just as she reached a side stairway. Coming from the third floor was one of the guests, a man she hadn't bothered to get the name of. In fact... so far she only knew one of the guests, and maybe it would be a good idea to meet more. Get in good. Haley smiled beyond her extravagant mask, following the man with her eyes until they we close enough to not make talking... awkward. "Another guest here, right...? I like the mask, real 'yin yang' vibes."

Brandon was feeling good. The whiskey left him feeling pleasant and warm, a light (VERY light) buzz that tickled his senses. ’Don’t take it too far tonight, Brandon.’You could say he had a very delicate equilibrium to maintain. Not drunk, just drunk enough. Sober enough to think. It would’ve been difficult NOT to notice the beautiful blonde standing at the end of the hall. She was bright enough to attract the attention of every man in the room - she certainly popped in contrast to Brandon, the penguin man. “Thanks. You look good yourself. Red suits you well.” he paused for a moment, before he could make some awkward ‘oh, so you’re also taking the stairs, we have so much in common’ comment. He should really make an effort to get to know the other guests. If they were as screwed as he was, maybe some of them would be willing to collaborate. What was the saying… two minds are better than one? “You look ready to party. Are you looking forward to this as much as I am?”

“Mmm. I like red, but I usually prefer yellows and blacks, if I’m honest,” Haley chuckled quietly, brushing her golden locks back behind her and carefully walking towards the stairs. As they walked, they came to a mirrored hall, but Haley was more focused on the future than the man beside her. “Oh, I suppose you could say that I’m looking forward to it, yes. I’ve certainly been thinking about it. Haley Black, it’s a pleasure.” Not enough of a pleasure for Haley to have extended her hand, though, apparently, as she left both hands firmly at her sides while the two walked.

“Brandon Caldwell. Likewise,” Did she seem uneasy, or was he making stuff up? “I can’t blame you. What were you doing before all this?” The gentle hum of a piano in the background lulled him into a state of contentment.

Haley stepped down and into the great room, her eyes scanning the buffet tables and stopping on each member of the Wolfe family. She smiled behind her hat and mask, looking to Brandon. “My job, mainly. Being a lawyer isn’t busywork. In fact, I would have much preferred not to come here, if I’m honest. But… It’s acceptable enough.” Haley paused as a member of the staff offered champagne, smiling and shaking her head. “I’m sure mister… Caldwell here would enjoy some, but not for me. Not tonight, thank you.”

“Oh, I see. You’re used to being on the go all the time. I’m guessing the entire wait and see dynamic of this trip must be driving you up a wall,” he observed. It was the same for him, in case the liquor gave it away. His days in the military were far behind him - further than his days from medical school, anyway - and that feeling of doing nothing was enough to send his anxiety into overdrive. If he let it. “I’m a PA, so if you hit your funny bone in the conga line, you know where to find me. Or maybe you’ll need my help with something else.” He turned an eye to the champagne, smiling politely. “Thank you very much.” He held the glass in his hand but it remained untouched. There was no reason to be rude, but he’d had enough to drink for the moment.

Virginia Wolfe

Virginia Wolfe prepared herself for what she promises to be one of the most exciting games of her life and how can it not be? She has done her research, found some truly interesting people, who'll apparently do anything to keep their pasts, their mistakes buried, afterall she has enough compelling evidence to bring their carefully built lives to complete ruins at her mere whims and fancies.

She smiled, relishing in the absolute power. The power to play God.
But not the puppetmaster.

There is a fine distinction between the two.. Human beings are fascinating creatures and left to their own devices, often overthrows your expectations, especially when there is a little bit of fear and self preservation mixed in..
And this particular group has plenty of reasons to fear.. Fear her.. Even if they don't know that fully well. Yet.

She took in the view from the balcony. The large ballroom was splendidly decorated to suit her tastes, with Beethoven's classic moonlight sonata playing in the background. Enigmatic with an air of foreboding.. A foreshadowing, perhaps of the many horrors to come.. She idly wondered how many had paid careful attention to the island's history she had specifically instructed Heather to narrate. She guessed not many. The grandeur and splendour of the mansion often puts people out of their elements at first glance. They falter and get distracted or a few self absorbed ones merely brush it aside as insignificant details, unworthy of their notice.
Well, their loss.. It just puts them behind in the game and every move counts here, cause there can only be one winner.

Her eyes scanned the diverse assortment of players, wondering if she could correctly predict this game's winner. It wasn't difficult for her to recognise them in the crowd, not because she had carefully chosen the six masks herself, but something about their aura radiated that delicious fear. And how hard they were trying to conceal it with skepticism or mere awkwardness instead.
An amusing bunch, nonetheless.

. And everything becomes tenfold amusing when you factor in the devil himself, her son, Ezra Wolfe.. No, not the devil.. The one everyone should watch out for is her daughter. Valentina takes, almost eerily, after the matriarch of the Wolfe bloodline and she is truly a force to be reckoned with. Apparently, Valentina intends to make a late appearance, Virginia duly noted before settling her gaze on her wayward son.. Ezra was unabashedly being himself, exuding charm and confidence as he addressed the guests.

"Everything is in order, Ma'am",
Heather's voice cut through her reverie. Her presence loomed behind her back, rapt at attention,
"I'll be downstairs in a moment", Virginia replied in a chiped tone as she felt her presence recede behind her back. She was very good at this. Knowing when to make her presence felt and when to fall back into the shadows. She couldn't have asked for a more efficient organiser.

Virginia spared a last sweeping glance at the guests at large, before donning her mask and turning her back to them.
It's time to set things in motion.