Grand Reopening [Baccarrat Mansion]

[Helena]

   

Helena & Natalie

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Though she was an exile of the family, it did not mean she did not still avail of the resources being an Asquith afforded her. Public image was the important consideration, after all – she was not sure the di inferi had much in the way of conceit when it came to actual morals. Which suited her just fine, of course. Helena had been digging since her arrival in Moscow, and both blood and money opened many a sticky door barred to others. She had plenty of either at her disposal, but less interest in the dirty work of it. For that reason, her recent acquisition turned out to be a useful one, despite her initial reservations.

Natalie was the kind of beautiful that made men drool, but she was also cold as fresh snow with it. Since Helena found small talk laborious at the best of times, she was glad to use the shield of her company. As to the actual nature of their alliance, well; Helena had no interest in teaching children, but every interest in shaping the world around her. Especially to create a world that suited her particular proclivities. Natalie shimmered with the sort of energy that spoke of quiet consequence, and such was the kind of a determination Helena would use to her advantage. Including navigating the social niceties she usually abhorred and avoided unless she thought there was something in it for her.

Champagne in hand, her eyes roved the decadence of the reopening with little short of a mild sort of disdain. She was an Asquith, born with a silver spoon, and Baccarat was a dynasty she was well acquainted with. But their legacy was in glassworks, not ruling class. At least the restoration was such that one would never know there had been a fire here. Beside her, Natalie was leading conversation with another guest. Her poise was practised and engaged, such that one would never know she’d actually rolled her eyes when Helena informed her of the engagement, and her presumed attendance at Helena’s side for it.