A beautiful, deadly Rose

[Seer]

<< The ripples of Black Widow's departure from the Six, and the revelation of Persephone's defection, spread far, the effects were painful and even life threatning. Many friendships have been lost, relationships have died, and ties between the Six and the Birds of Prey have been strained.>>

<< Speaking of the Birds of Prey, they are currently down by three members with one apparently gone for good, and the other two largely undedecided, despite a truly sound argument and (soft but no less true) chastising by their leader, Oracle.>>

<< The Birds of Prey were experiencing their first real growing pains, and true test. Would they be able close the chasm that had formed? Many of the Birds of Prey had deep and overlapping ties to the Six, and were more than a little effected by the revelation of Black Widow being Malice and Christopher Victory's daughter, and her subsequent departure of the Six to join her mother in the Hellfire Club. Adding to that was the defection of Persephone, who followed her "would be" Sister to Hellfire, and most recently attacked Recall and Longshot with the intent to kill them. >>

<< Others, including Silver Swan, Charope and Isis were effected and reacted with varying the degrees of anger and feelings of betrayal. They soon turned their rage on Zach, who was reluctant to condemn Haleigh or completely right her and Persephone off. The conflict between Silver Swan and Valkyrie reached an explosive climax with Silver Swan violently taking Valkyrie down, and then ending her friendship with Orion, and furiously departing the team. That divide has now become a CHASM that not even Oracle could bridge in her first attempt.>>

<< Even Oracle, who maintained an exceptionally optimistic outlook on things, could not be so sure, but Recall held the belief that ther was something she could do about this. First, she would go to Orion, the ex-fiancee of Black Widow, and current recipient of condemnation and ridicule by Silver Swan, Charope and Isis. >>

<< Oracle had seen to Ashley, who had been found by Tachyon and returned to the Clocktower, and the rest of the team found themselves at a loss for what to do. They were not ready for a full on confrontation with Malice and the Hellfire Club, especially not with Black Widow and Persephone among their number, they were now down by three members, AND there was still the growing question about ROSE, the mysterious but (up until recent) serene and benevolent associate of various members of the Birds of Prey, including those who were at the heart of the conflict over Black Widow.>>

<< Oracle had a very heavy plate on her hands, and while she was never one to shy away from a challenge before, even she had questions she could not answer regarding Rose.>>

<< Sharon warned Zach that he would regret his neglect of Rose...and they were about to see just how dire that warning would actually be.>>

<< Rose would not only be a growing mystery/question for the Birds of Prey, she was ALREADY presenting herself as a powerful and DEADLY threat to the Hellfire's Inner Circle. This one woman, who's powers had yet to be full understood by the Birds OR the Inner Circle, had already left a violent impact on Cobra, and posed questions to Talisman, but Malice was not at all deterred. She would be sending a member of her White Court to "investigate" this woman, whom Malice's psi powers indicated to be (if nothing else) an IMMENSELY powerful psionic mutant. >>

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<< At the Sanctuary, Rose had the children out in a large, spacious, but secure play area, allowing them to enjoy the sun, the air and exercise. This was especially beneficial for the young mutants who's powers were physical or their mutation itself was physical in nature. And so while the children played, Rose cradled the baby Dominique had rescued, singing a sweet song softly to the infant and enchanting her with two very small soul satellites that circled and danced around her as Rose sang. Even Sable was out in the enclosure, frolicking in the grass, and chasing after birds.>>

<< Rose seemed like her "usual" self now. There was no hint of anger....aggression or any indication that she could be capable of the violence and brutality that Danny, Simon and Vivica had witnessed with their own eyes. There was no sign of her ANGER toward Zach and Persephone either. But even the most beautiful rose, has deadly thorns that can hurt...poison...perhaps even kill in the righ circumstance>>

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<< At the Hellfire Club, Persephone, who was already having a hard time, was now realizing just how deep the price of loyalty to her "sister" was. Would she SURVIVE this experience and be recognizable as the woman she believed she was? Lord Ravena didn't seem to think so. He knew her better than ANYONE in that mansion, even HALEIGH, and SHE knew HIM too, including his MOTHER.>>

<< If Emiko's WARNING to him about his mother gave him pause, Persephone's THREATENING him with her was perhaps her one trump card that she overplayed. She thought her encounter with him was over....it was just the beginning of another round of pain and punishment for her, one that Diana would make SURE her daughter would see and experience.>>


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<< At the Parthenon, Isis and Matrix remained. It had been a much needed night of rest and decompression for them, and the new day brought fresh eyes and perspective on things. For Matrix, the intrigue of Firebird was something he was enjoing, like the taste of delicious food. He thought he knew at least ONE thing about her- her orientation. But last night, it was apparent that there was some sort of...CHEMISTRY between them? He found himself not ready to leave just yet, not without one last visit with Blaze for the time being. And so, while Dominique met with Michael, Karen and Morgan, Richard quietly sought out Blaze, who was in the offices of Spectra Couture in the Parthenon. Cass was with her, and they were speaking with Andrew in Sally's office. Sally herself was at her flagship in LA at this time, but Blaze had continued to work with her all this time, and now Morgan was back. Andrew of course was also in Sally's employ. He may have been looked down upon by several women in the Birds of Prey, but he always seemed to hailed as a hero in Sally's world, that had made his transition to this side of the world much easier for him.>>

 

[Orion]

Clandestine Intelligence

It was early in the morning, but this meeting was extremely important, and Zach was glad he could be there in person. He tossed the car keys to the valet, and shook the hands of both the LCI lobby guardsmen. His CI assistant met him in the elevator and started briefing him on all the things that happened since yesterday. When he was all caught up, his assistant asked if there was anything else he needed.

"Yes, actually. You know a good florist? Excellent. I need an arrangement sent to Ashley Oldenburg ASAP. The card should say: Anytime you want to feel better, I'm your man."

Zach entered the board room and poured himself some coffee as the leadership of Clandestine all found their seats at the conference table and shared uncomfortable looks with each other. There was an elephant in the room, and it was sitting in Haleigh's empty chair at the head of the table.

Sentry: Alright, we all know why we're here.

The Captain of security said, breaking the ice as Zach lowered himself into his chair. Thomas was all business, but it was clear he regarded this task as an unwelcome duty.

Specter: We can't do this, Tom. Without any response from my contacts at Hellfire, we don't have near enough intel to make a sound decision.

The Captain of Field Operations cautioned. He made his position sound logical, but Zach could tell, under the strategy, there was die hard loyalty, love, and respect. Zach was fairly certain that Griffin would even defend Haleigh's decision to set off a nuke, if it ever came to that. The former Navy Seal could justify a lot for the greater good, and he often supported Haleigh's reasoning.

Da Vinci: Perhaps, but it's not like this is a mutiny. The Midnight Contingency was HER plan, her fail-safe for Clandestine in case she ever gave us reason to doubt her.

The Captain of Research & Development replied. He was a brilliant nuclear engineer who put a premium on rationalism. If he voted 'against' Haleigh, it wouldn't be a personal decision. He would weigh the options objectively.

Bandolier: And yet Benny, if we suspend her authority and block her from using her own resources, it could rob her of her ability to do what is necessary to succeed in.... whatever plan she has.

The Captain of Equipment and Armament countered. Zach sensed her uneasiness and concern. She didn't like this news about Haleigh, she didn't like the purpose of this meeting.

Tycoon: Haze, if we continue to allow her unbridled use of company resources, she could take us down a very dark road, if that plan of hers is diabolical. Whoever we vote in as Surrogate Chairman will have the authority to extend her any help she requests.

The Captain of Finance warned. He'd never been a particularly moral man, but that didn't mean he didn't have a code of honor. He knew the kinds of people they were dealing with at Hellfire, and all of the many dark roads they could find themselves going down.

Verdict: Griff is RIGHT, though. There is folly in trying to make a judgement call without any supporting evidence.

The Captain of Law advised. He would be another objective voter, considering both arguments, and doing what was best for the company as a whole.

Headhunter: We may not get much more than we have, unfortunately.

The Captain of Human Resources suggested calmly. Zach sensed her temperance, and her reluctance to jump to conclusions, but he also knew she felt the same sense of urgency they all did.

Sawbones: I brought everything I compiled on her last week when she was here. What was she even testing for?

The Captain of Medicine wondered, staring at Zach. Jasper had been Haleigh's physician for years, and knew more about HER health than his own. Zach shook his head to indicate he had no idea why Haleigh would have all those tests done in the middle of the night.

Mirage: Is it really so hard to believe she's gone rogue?

The Captain of Recovery and Restoration asked. She was an austere woman, cold and calculating, and she was neither surprised nor particularly worried about this development.

Infrared: Yes, Audrey, it IS. I've called her my best friend ever since we were roommates at Annapolis. She's never been an angel, but she's damn sure not a demon either. If she's gone to Hell, I have to believe she had a decent reason.

The CEO of LCI replied heatedly. She refused to accept the implication that what Haleigh had done might be inexplicably evil, and that helped Zach feel a little less like a crazy person.

Infrared: Zach, you told me Haleigh sent you a message?

He finally spoke up when she prompted him with the question.

"Yes, Oracle has been kind enough to offer her expertise in deciphering it, but unfortunately, we don't know anything helpful yet."

 

[Longshot]

Last Night - The Clocktower

:: In one way, having his face mutilated by the new Red Rook of The Hellfire Club had been a bit of a blessing in disguise. His mind had held him from sleep for weeks, filled with uncertainty about the future, still a bit afraid of the world he saw around him. He had been so busy mourning the man he used to be and trying to build the man that he wanted to be, that sleep just seemed like an uneccessary distraction. His body had been battered and beaten down. For all intents and purposes, he felt like he had been hit with the force of a freight train. That and the combination of medication he received at Charope had finally allowed Simon to SLEEP for the first time in a long time. ::

:: But the sleep did not last for very long. Just when he had settled into a DEEP and PEACEFUL slumber, he was rattled away by the sounds of wood beams snapping and a growl that shook the entire building. ::

[POW!]

[ With ONE thunderous punch, The Silver Swan sends Valkyrie FLYING THROUGH THE WALL, OUT OF THE CLOCKTOWER and ALL THE WAY TO CENTRAL PARK!]

[ She doesn't stand there to admire her work either. She IMMEDIATELY takes off, flying THROUGH the hole created by the impact of Ashley's body, flying at subsonic speeds to central park where she soon lands]

GET UP, BITCH. GET UP...and get KNOCKED DOWN AGAIN!

:: He sat up in the bed in a bustle as he heard the crashing all around him. Instinctively, he jumped out of bed, in his underwear and ran up the stairs in a hurry, trying to see what the hell had just happened. But just as he did. ::

Of course, Oracle.

:: And with that, Isis raises her hands and ignites magick, weaving a golden pattern of power as ALL of them are enveloped by a large column of light, and teleported from the clock tower, to central park!::

:: His eyes adjusted to the golden energy signature of Isis as everybody who had been in the room had quickly dissappeared. Simon had heard Oracle mention something about Central Park. There was no way he could have gotten there fast enough. He turned the corner to see a broken hole right in the middle of the clocktower and a door THROWN off the hinges. This was bad. It seemed as if The Birds of Prey had been attacked, and now Simon had been left alone. ::

"Well...so much for not being alone."

:: Simon ran down to his guest quarters, put on his clothes and decided that he would hate himself if he just went home. These people had help keep them safe and at the very least, he should attempt to do the same. Walking down and out of the clocktower, he walked over to one of the many illegally parked vehicles that littered the city sidewalks. This one, had a boot on it. Thinking quickly, he held out his hand as his left eye flickered with a light green pulse as the boot popped off the wheel, the doors unlocked and he heard the ingition turned over. This whole power thing was getting a bit easier for him. ::

:: Quickly getting into the car, Simon shifted it into drive and flew down the streets, using his power to move the traffic lights into his favor, which while convenient, in a city like New York, was more dangerous than the small felony of stealing a car. Zooming towards things, he pulled into the front of the park in a time that marveled even him. He had made it to Central Park. ::

"Yeah great...now where the hell is everybody."

:: He heard a rustling far ahead in the distance as his eyes looked up in the sky to see a woman FLYING through the air with the greatest of ease. Squinting, he realized this was Valkyrie. Whatever the hell had knocked HER back like this had to have been pretty strong. ::

:: Simon went for his phone, trying to call Vivica, but there was no answer. ::

:: So he bolted. ::

:: Running down the path at full speed his mind began to wonder just what was after them, and after a series of dead ends and seemingly making no progress finding these people, he received a text from Vivica. ::

>>Simon! So Sorry! Co-Worker Dispute! Nothing to worry about! PLEASE return to The Clocktower! Be there in FIVE!

"Co-Worker Dispute?"

:: So somebody from Ashley's own team had punched her through the clocktower TO Central Park and then OUT into the orbit of the city again? His mind searched for answers until it settled on the only option that made sense....Sharon Kelly. This didn't sound like the woman who he had helped in The Purifiers Attack, The Compassionate Senator that fought so hard for mutant rights, and as he made his way back to the Clocktower, he was filled in by Vivica on what had transpired as she walked him to his house, not wanting any other presence in the clocktower besides Oracle when Valkyrie returned with Tachyon. ::

"And the insomnia is back..."

The Next Day - Vanguard

:: Though he was injured, Simon had worked well into the night and now the morning, piecing together furniture, cleaning up his own loft upstairs and trying to simply organize his life. His cause felt more important to him than ever, and after realizing that The Birds of Prey had just as many cracks as The Six, he wasn't sure that he was going to be able to rely on anybody but himself going forward. That, and he simply wanted to keep himself busy so that he didn't have to think about the very difficult conversation that he was going to have with his mother very soon, and the equally hard realization that Ava Cassadine, somebody that he had gotten to know so quickly, somebody that he had tried to help in his own way, had seemingly turned her back on every tie that she had to join her sister...who was not her sister with The Hellfire Club, putting her now in league with mother. The world had exploded enough for the time being, and Simon couldn't and didn't really want to process much at the moment besides the the menial yet important tasks he needed to accomplish today. ::

:: Still...there was one person who hadn't left his mind, and that was SHARON KELLY. He had been so inspired by her strength and the clarity of mind she displayed in The Purifiers attack on the city. It had stayed with him, one of the few bright spots of a traumatic night that was still haunting him. Sharon had inspired Simon to take a leap of faith. This was a woman who had died, been reborn as a weapon and STILL managed to take back her own life, not crumble from it, and still work towards making a better world. To know that she had been so angry, that she was angry enough to leave her team, he felt compelled to see her. ::

:: He poured himself a cup of coffee, his beard a bit more cleaned up, and his face still somewhat somewhat swollen from scraping against the sidewalk, he put a stack of legal documents on his desk. Though it was EMPTY and he was the only employee...VANGUARD was ready for business, at least by the looks of things. Now, he needed to work on the thinning connections he had left in this city to help him fund this project. Simon needed experts, willing to lend their time and money to help him create a network that connected mutants in need to the right kind of help. A mixture of legal and social welfare experts, as those well versed in the non profit, more aggressive philanthropic causes. Simon needed to engage in a little anarchy to get attention and to send a message to the city that he wasn't playing around anymore. He also needed somebody that could help him guide his personal image to new heights, to help him redefine the image of Simon Pratt that people had in their mind. In short, Simon needed his own allies, outside of The Birds of Prey. People to believe in him. It was time to go out into the world, find those people...and make his passion become a reality. ::

:: Yet still..he felt compelled to reach out to Sharon. But how? The world didn't really know that she existed anymore. How was somebody supposed to make contact with a dead woman on the lamb. Simon felt in his heart, that maybe he could give her the kind of..."peace" that she gave him in an uncertain time. He owed it to her at least to try. But first...he would finish this coffee, attempt to force his face together and head out into the city, trying to convince people to give their money to a badly bruised rich boy with a party boy reputation. Even with luck on his side, the deck was stacked against him. ::

"But thank god luck is a lady...I think."

 

[Silver Swan]

Outside of Vanguard

:: Yet still..he felt compelled to reach out to Sharon. But how? The world didn't really know that she existed anymore. How was somebody supposed to make contact with a dead woman on the lamb. Simon felt in his heart, that maybe he could give her the kind of..."peace" that she gave him in an uncertain time. He owed it to her at least to try. But first...he would finish this coffee, attempt to force his face together and head out into the city, trying to convince people to give their money to a badly bruised rich boy with a party boy reputation. Even with luck on his side, the deck was stacked against him. ::

"But thank god luck is a lady...I think."

[ A song bird zipped into view, perching near simon and staring at him, tilting it's head as it move a bit. It tweeted its own little song...as it fluttered its wings. Soon, Simon found himself being surveyed by a pair of two FAR larger birds, two silver gryfalcons - Artemis & Antiope. They sat on a branch in a tree overlooking him. ]

[ The large birds of pray watched Simon calmly, swaying in the breeze and vocalizing a bit.]

<< Suddenly, Sharon was BEHIND him.>>

They [ the birds] were watching you. They told me you were looking for me.

[ There she stands, in the full aspect of the Silver Swan. ]

Are you in trouble? Do you need some help?

[ the silver gryfalcons stretched and fanned their wings a bit as Sharon looked upon Simon.]

It's not safe for you to be out here alone like this. You could be attacked again, and most of THEM (the birds of prey) don't have the power to repel the likes of Persephone and Black Widow.

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Catacombs

Underground, deep in the catacombs, Haleigh had found a place that wasn't used as much, where the technological advancements hadn't yet reached. She set up simple pop-up targets at random, booby trapped some of the lanterns into flamethrowers, and staged a few tripwires for landmines, smoke grenades, and flashbangs. When she was done she went back to the beginning, and then selected her loadout.

Her usual handguns were holstered on her thighs, a Benelli combat shotgun was stuck magnetically along her spine, and a custom built AR 15 with a holographic sight was in her hands. She ERASED the memory files of her set up of the gauntlet, so that she'd be surprised as she moved through it and have an actual challenge avoiding the traps and reacting to the targets.

It was as good a method as any to pass the time. She began to work her way through the gauntlet slowly, strategically, enjoying her time alone. She FELT like someone was watching her, and took cover for a second as a reason to look around. She shifted through the sight filters, X-ray, thermal, night-vision. There was no one here, just her paranoia. She went back to the task with renewed focus, ran her rifle empty of ammo and switched to the shotgun to continue putting lead downrange seamlessly, not bothering to manifest new ammo to replenish what she'd spent. She smoothly leapt into a forward roll to avoid some pyrotechnics, but tripped a wire that dropped a flashbang at her feet, which she swiftly kicked into an alcove as she turned her face away from it. She was down to her pistols by the end of the course, but it was no trouble finishing. Time to reset, reload, and begin again.

 

[Matrix]

Gear ready. Breakfast smashed (12 eggs, 12 pancakes, 12 pieces of fruit (unpeeled) and 12 slices of bacon with a half gallon each of OJ, milk and lime water). Miss D seen off complete with hugs and kisses. Now to figure out what the HELL I am doing.

Blaze was a lesbian I thought. Not that there is anything WRONG with that. Hell, it's her thang. But, I never figured that we would hang like we did last night. We did not sex or anything, but there was some touching and nudging and caressing and...well damn, I was probably gonna make a damn fool of myself but I was gonna at least say hey before we left the Parthenon.

Now what? This was easier at the HC. I went to the Spectra Couture floor and stepped out. Getting to the right office was child's play and so I knocked before entering to see Blaze, Cass and Andrew (!) inside. First business was with Andrew. I stepped up to him and nodded.

Hey man. My bad. All me.

That should be enough, we're not besties.

I stepped in closer, smiled at Cass and unclasp my hands from behind my back, giving a token to Blaze. In it was a card that said simply:

I had fun. Perhaps again?

 

[Recall]

NYC - Chelsea - Vivica's Loft

:: After a seemingly never ending night that ended with more problems and solutions, Vivica crept back to her loft in Chelsea at the crack of dawn, the citizens of New York starting their days and the looming presence of sunlight making her feel a bit more safe. Everything had become a mess and she had played her part in it. So much had transpired and due to the nature of Vivica's ability, when her mind was racing, let's just say it was a far more intense experience than most people experienced. Her mind replayed her encounter with Ava with perfect detail. She recalled the fight between Sharon and Ashley and the exchanging of such hurt and angry words. ::

:: Before long a pulsing migraine began to form. Once she had fed Sheba, her bengal cat and mindlessly scrolled through her phone, looking at any number of social media and pictures of kittens to make her happy, she got into a piping hot shower, changed her clothes, reset the bandages on her arm and did her best to "foundation away" the bruises underneath her eyes, given to her by Persephone. For a few moments, this worked. By focusing simply on her daily rituals, she was able to forget. Before long, she had cooked herself breakfast, made a few business calls and was in the business of cleaning up as she immediately felt the presence of eyes on the back of her head. But she had not heard a sound. Shaking her head, she continued to wash her dish and set it on the counter, on top of a towel. ::

"You never can just use the door knob, can you."

Maverick: "Darling. I'm a spy. I'd be doing a disservice to the entire profession if were to show up in a room without a little mystery."

:: Maverick, from her text message earlier had finally arrived. Thankfully, at a far less chaotic time. ::

"Ah yes. Caldwell. Jack Caldwell..."

:: She had a long and for the most part beautiful, intimate relationship with the man for over two years in Europe. He was her superior at Clandestine, though as long as he didn't show favoritism, or their relationship didn't get in the way of what needed to get done, the agency didn't much care about. Outside of Zach, he was the person at Clandestine that she trusted the most. She turned on her heels, and smiled. She made her way over to him. ::

"In all seriousness...thank you for coming."

"Hi, Maverick."

:: She pulled him into a long and WARM hug, letting it linger for a few moments. It felt good to smell his skin and evoke a sense of familiarity, of a far simpler time. ::

Maverick: "Top of the morning, Goose. How are you feeling?"

"I'm feeling more than I'd like to right now, honestly. Speaking of which, can I get you something to drink? A mimosa perhaps?"

:: Vivica walked over to the fridge and grabbed a bottle of champagne as he took a seat at the dining room table. She flashed it to him with a smile. ::

Maverick: "Vivica. I'm an international man of mystery. I can't maintain such an aura of pure raw manly sex appeal and intrigue whilst holding a mimosa."

[unamused]

"Jack. Please stop making me regret asking you to come see me."

Maverick: "A mimosa is fine. I'm just having a bit of a go at you. For old time sake. I promise, I'll be a perfect gentleman from this moment forward."

:: Shaking her head she began to pour two flutes of champagne with just a splash of orange juice. She made her way over the table, handed him his glass and took a seat. He looked well. ::

Jack: "I seem to recall me asking you a question moments ago that you all but dodged completely. I forgot how spectacular you were at that. And also how spectacular you look. So..the choice is yours, Viv. We can either talk about what's bothering you or we can--"

:: She covered his mouth and pushed his mimosa closer to him. ::

"Don't finish that sentence, Jacky. I'll talk."

:: Vivica hesitated for a moment...but she needed to get this out with somebody on the outside of things. Or at least just the perimeter of the situation. ::

"So..I'm not all too sure how much anybody at Clandestine is even aware, or if technically, I'm allowed to tell you any of this, but in light of certain things..I'm just kind of not caring about protocol at this point. Black Widow has defected to The American Hellfire Club. As The White Princess."

Maverick: "There was rumblings along some of our contacts in London. We had an agent trailing Archer Fairchild. We were interested in his invitation to The Blackout Party. Worried he was going to try an expand his influence. I had received the details of The Blackout Party, but without an agent on the inside we couldn't confirm. Looks like I can now confirm the nature of the Board Meeting happening as we speak."

Maverick: "Not that it's any of my business, professionally..how is Commander Armani doing?"

"Not well would be an understatement. If he was anybody else, he might even be considered a flight risk..possibly even neutralized by now. He is convinced that Haleigh has gone into deep cover in order to bring them down...and I want to help him, but it's not just Haleigh Davidoff that's left. Ava Cassadine has joined as well, taking the position of The Red Rook, and shortly after she attempted to carry out a hit on my life...and the life of a very good friend of mine."

:: Jack reached over to the table and placed his hand over hers. She smiled sadly at him. ::

Maverick: "Vivica...love. I'm so sorry."

[sighing]

"It's like history repeating itself. I'm better prepared...I'm stronger than I've ever been. I'm prepared to fight against this with everything I've got. But then I think of the server that protects this god foresaken chip in my brain....Jack, if they don't cut Black Widow's legs off...at any second. She could take control of my mind, my memories...all this valuable information that you can't find on mission logs or case files or video footage...you don't know everything about The Six...it's not Clandestine's main focus. There are plenty of fish in the sea to fry...but my connection runs deep. Very deep..and now that I've been attacked...I have no choice but to second guess my safety, which forces me to question my allegiance to Clandestine...and even Zach..."

"He doesn't see what's going on...or he does, and he's ignoring it because he's holding out hope. And I want to believe him, Jack. I really do, because he's never given me any reason not to. Because I owe him my life..but I'm worried. I've already had a man in my life burn me because his focus was on Haleigh Davidoff, among other things. I'm scared...that if I help him, trust him...defend him..it's going to be to my detriment, that I am going to leave open a window that brings in a chill so cold that it kills me..."

"I need him to think smarter. I need him to do what he would do if this were any other person on Earth. I need him to have my back just as much as I have his..and I'm scared that it's going to burn me. That's the heart of why I reached out to you. I need to know that whatever decision Clandestine makes with regards to Haleigh, that you have my back...I need my server moved and placed under my own watch, but I need the protection of agents and people that I trust. I know Zach will try and ease my mind..but I need a contingency plan, and I need you to be on board with that plan."

:: And there it was. She had told him everything, placing an amount of trust in his discretion that events of late had made her wary to. He walked over to her and placed his hands on her shoulder, massaging her shoulders gently. ::

Maverick: "First and foremost, I will always have your back, Lennox. You are a positively smashing agent. Your record is flawless, you've proven your loyalty and your capability to Clandestine time and time again. I'm not the only one who has your back. It's a beautiful back. Trust me when I say that when you pledged allegiance to us, we did the same to you...but that same loyalty is also applied to Orion."

Maverick: "We are better and smarter than the other guys. We don't just neutralize threats without assessing all options, though rest assured that if even Orion turned out to have all of this blow up in his face, there are protocols in place to ensure safety. To ensure that Clandestine moves on. We are an entity that thrives on our ability to survive, to endure...to make the right decisions quickly. And we have a bloody good track record..."

Maverick: "I trust Armani with my life. If he thinks she can be saved, I'll unstrap my gun and fight alongside him to see that through...This moment..it's a bit ironic. Not to drudge up the torrid details of our love affair..but the situation you are in right now, reminds me of something. Operation Wild Jasmine."

"I remember it..."

:: Her eyes were lost in reflection. She hadn't thought of that mission in quite some time. Though it had been the straw that broke the camel's back when it came to her and Jack. ::

Maverick: "You should. It was the mission you realized you didn't really love me and left me in the lurch to try and save a rogue."

"It wasn't that simple."

:: He moved over to face Vivica and kissed her forehead, tucking a bit of hair behind her ear. The look in his eyes was so genuine and sincere. This was why she had fallen in love with him. But love wasn't enough. At the end of the day, she needed something that Jack couldn't give her..and though it had been painful, Vivica had to live in the truth of who she was. ::

Maverick: "I know it wasn't...and I'm here, right? I'll always be here. All I am trying to communicate to you, my dear Viv, is that there was a time in your life, where you really believed that somebody was doing the right thing..or had good reasons for doing the wrong thing. And you know how that turned out. Zach was there for you...and now, you have the wisdom from that situation, of being on the other side. Perhaps that is how you can help him..or at least get him to consider things in another way."

"You know...you are a REALLY charming man when you want to be."

:: She rose from her chair and hugged him once more, thankful for his words. ::

Maverick: "Well, of course I am, love. I mean...I am the man who ruined you for all other men after all, or so it seems."

"Oh shut up, Jack...you know that I did love you, right? That I didn't just walk out because I didn't care."

:: Jack placed his hand now over Vivica's mouth and shook his head. ::

Maverick: "Let's not rough up a nice visit by looking at the past. I'm here. You're here. We're good. Solid. But I shouldn't waste any more of your time, Vivica. It appears that you need to talk to Zach, and that I am about to be buried in the monotony of agency protocols."

:: Vivica nodded and for a few moments, the two former lovers just stared at each other in silence, in that somewhat painful awareness that sometimes comes with the ramifications of letting go of somebody who really did care about you. Despite how much it hurt, when it wasn't right..it wasn't right. There would always be a chemistry between them, a love. He was part of a long history that belonged to only Vivica Lennox. Cameron wasn't a part of it, The Six wasn't a part of it. He was part of her taking off her training wheels and freefalling headfirst into her own life, and she would always be grateful to the man that helped her do that. ::

Maverick: "Next time...let's have dinner. Good pasta. Red Wine. Maybe then we can have the talk we never got to.."

"I'd like that Jack."

:: She picked up the glasses and headed to the kitchen to wash them. ::

Maverick: "Take care of yourself, Vivica. And damn...is it good to have a look at you again."

:: Vivica stood facing the sink, washing the glasses as a smile curled up in her face, she turned around with a giggle. ::

"Oh you are just--"

:: He was gone. As silently as he had arrived. He truly was a living breathing James Bond. She stared back at the glasses in the sink. Jack had been right. Zach had once believed in her when nobody else had. Or at the very least, he was along for the ride as she figured things out. But her answers had been painful, they had changed things for Vivica, made certain things she knew to be true in her life come crumbling down..she didn't wish that feeling on anybody, but she also couldn't not warn him in a real, viewable way of the possible glass that could break around his beliefs if he continued on this path after Haleigh. ::

:: She needed to see him and soon. Not just for this conversation, but because she was worried about how he was doing in the aftermath of the debacle that was Central Park. She knew he was at Clandestine. Saying goodbye to Sheba, she grabbed her purse and headed out into the city, towards Clandestine Headquarters, her mind heavy, but her heart clear. ::

 

[Firebird]

Parthenon- Spectra Couture

ABOUT LAST NIGHT. Michael had been right, they'd find help and solidarity in the right place, in the right time. Dominique Deveraux was a powerful sorceress, on par with Shadow Weaver, Harbinger and Spellbinder. She was the aunt of a demi-god, the "sister" to Set. How many people in this world could even claim to know ONE goddess (Persephone), let alone TWO? But as Blaze had often remarked to the others on the team, they WERE unique, and their lives, experiences, and perspectives reflected that. Some appreciated her observation more than others, but that wasn't going to stop her from giving credit where/where and to whom it was due. It was a a source of encouragement, and a boost to the HOPE that Mikey said they had to hold on to, that Dominique Deveraux offered her solid support.

After spending time talking to Dominique, she and Cass took Rich and ran off with him to enjoy the rest of the night. Blaze could tell HE needed to loosen up a bit. It was easy to see that Dominique had molded him into a fine, worldly guy, and that made him all the more intriguing to Blaze. So much had happened, so much had CHANGED, and as Mike had heard loud and clear, Blaze WAS rather disillusioned with "The Six", namely Cameron and Delilah. They didn't know what a DEBT they owed to Michael AND Cass that Blaze had calmed down and backed off on push by Karen to have the entire Victoria family (along with Michael and Nicolas) leave the Parthenon.

She NEEDED something new to draw her attention, someone to give her another view and sensation in anyway that it might come, and somehow...she just SENSED that Richard might be that person. How it would all unfold, even SHE couldn't guess...which was unusual for this fire elemental with a VIVID imagination. For once, she just wanted to follow the yellow brick road- one foot in the other....or to quote Sharon when she beautifully sang Whitney Houston's "STEP BY STEP."

Rich was someone who had something to offer but was probably "slept on" by most who laid eyes on him. Dominique doted on him, she clearly valued him, loved him and was FIERCELY protective of him. SHE saw the uniqueness in him, the potential, the POWER, and Blaze, due to her very nature, was sensing these things. Because he had orbited Dominique, and indirectly the Six for a while now, the fact that he hadn't had more direct contact with Blaze or Morgan made him stand out even more, and Blaze decided last night it was time to learn MORE about this mysterious, and...CUTE black knight!

So there they were, three young, beautiful, powerful mutants, surronded by the darkness of uncertainty, looking for just a BIT of escape in a way that wouldn't hurt anybody else.

First stop, CLUB FEVER on the main floor of the parthenon, to see if Rich could actually GET DOWN. Blaze could tell he was amused by herself and Cass, but they weren't your "average white girls." Blaze had them BOTH in the center of the dance floor, and they got a sexy workout, while Blaze showed off her style and pizazz as a dancer.

Later, they went to Bar Six, where Rich amazed them with how much he could eat, and Blaze teased him a bit. Even poking his stomach with her finely manicured nail, causing him to squeal with a start/laugh! So he was TICKLISH! She'd use that AGAINST him later!

Laster STILL, in Cass' apartment, it was time for DRINKS, and "getting to know you." and of course, Blaze lead the way, drinking more than any mortal or most MUTANTS could handle, even Black Widow had remarked on what a FISH ....or was it LUSH...that Blaze turnd out to be!

Richard was bombared with questions that, as time passed, became more personal and risque, but not GROSS. It was clear that Blaze and Cass wanted to find out about HIM, and this might have been the first time that anyone, OUTSIDE of Dominique had shown him this much attention.

There they were, all laying together on Cass' sectional in her spacious lounge on the main floor of her penthouse, that was comfortably illuminated by a natural fire. Eventually Cass had fallen asleep next to Blaze, and she and Richard continue to chat. Blaze continued to drink. Richard had gotten comfortable, even going so far as to remove his jacket and shoes, while Blaze had ditched her red blazer and black high heels, then unbuttoned a few buttons on her white blouse.

Richard and She seemed to be "circling" each other mentally and with their eyes. The intrigue was there, the comfort was there. But Blaze stopped just short, as did Richard. Blaze wasn't sure if THIS is what she wanted? How COULD it be? Blaze HAPPILY enjoyed Vivica, but she herself said they werent "married or anything..."

For a moment, Blaze entertained the wild fantasy of Vivica showing up just now! Blaze wondered if THAT was what she wanted...ALL AT ONCE!?

Rirchard was a nice guy, cute, and as Dominique would have expected, a gentleman, but like Blaze, he'd been through some DARKNESS. That Darkness, that LOSS haunted him and still informed who he was today. Blaze could empathize.

The night ended with Blaze giving giving Richard a TIGHT hug, and a slow lingering kiss on the CHEEK, before leaving to return to her family in her penthouse.

-----------------

TODAY.

Off to a good start. Morgan and Karen more willing to interact with the outside world, Michael staying by Karen's side. Blaze watched Mike and Karen, and in her heart of hearts, she KNEW that the time was coming when they'd take their relationship to that next level. Karen deserved a happy ending, and Mike was just the man to give it to her.

But what of Blaze's OWN story. Sisters coming and going, dying, returning...BETRAYING... people around her being hypocrites and then lambasting her for speaking on it, a team that never could go for very long without turning on itself. What kind of life did SHE want? Vivica was seemingly devoted to the Birds of Prey, and would probably never want to be EXCLUSIVE, which was okay...but Blaze wasn't sure Vivica could HANDLE an "open relationship" for very long. She was more "Traditional" than Blaze in some ways, but Blaze loved how their different worlds and sensibilities always came together to make beautiful music of the heart. That music might be at an end though. Vivica might not even want to SPEAK to Blaze. What happened wasn't Blaze's fault, but Blaze IMMEDIATELY recognized that Persephone's attack on her would reopen old wounds, and inflame traumas...she had such issues with the Six as a whole and Blaze had tried to help her with that, only to NOT be there for her when she needed help. She COULD have made a difference in that battle, but she had no idea.


She prepared for her day, and was now in her outfit, and high heels , hair and make up flawless.

Cass met her on the way down to Spectra Couture. They arrived and made their way to Sally's executive office in the back of the store, only to find ANDREW in there, lounging with his feet up on Sally Spectra's desk!?

"DREW, honey, get your feet off Sally's desk!"

Blaze "ordered" as she waved her finger at him smirked.

" And make way! the DIVAS have arrived."

She made her way over to the side and BUMPED him right out of Sally's seat with her hip. She and Cass laughed as Cass pulled up a chair and Blaze seated herself.


" Sally asked me to check on the progress of "Fire Star" line that will be tied in to the big show at my club in a couple weeks. She ALSO wanted me to be here and "act" in her place while Derek Forrester was prowling around. Apparently he's in the area, and he always likes to peek in."

"He quite a character, Cass. You ought to meet him."

And I THINK he has EYES for Morgan!

Blaze thought to herself.

"Speaking of EYES....and someone who was EASY on the eyes..."

. Getting to the right office was child's play and so I knocked before entering to see Blaze, Cass and Andrew (!) inside. First business was with Andrew. I stepped up to him and nodded.

Hey man. My bad. All me.

That should be enough, we're not besties.

Hmmm

She eyed BOTH men, noting Andrew, who looked alot gloomier than usual to begin with, NOW looking rather UPTIGHT at the sight of Rich. Why would that be? Rich offered him what sounded like an APOLOGY.

I wonder what that's about?

Shooting a look at Cass as she nodded her head toward the two men

I stepped in closer, smiled at Cass and unclasp my hands from behind my back, giving a token to Blaze.

"Hmmm, what have we here?"

In it was a card that said simply:

I had fun. Perhaps again?

Blaze's apple green eyes scanned over the card and the handwriting, then she looked up at Rich, who stood there, with an EVER so slight smile on his face as he awaited her response. She decided to tease him a bit more, as she "looked down her nose" at the card, and slowly turned it over to VERIFY if it was a HALLMARK card? then she looked back up at him with a smirk.

"Awww, Richie! This was so SWEET of you! "

"Of COURSE! I can NEVER get enough of a good drink...OR good company! "

She winked at him.

"Are you in a hurry? Why don't you stick around for a little bit here and then you can come with Cass and I to Ambosia for lunch! I'll even let you sit next to me! "

Sticking her tongue at Rich before turning in Sally's chair to face Andrew

" How about YOU, Andrew? The more the merrier!"

 

[Longshot]

NYC - Vanguard

<< Suddenly, Sharon was BEHIND im.>>

They [ the birds] were watching you. They told me you were looking for me.

[ There she stands, in the full aspect of the Silver Swan. ]

:: Simon immediately tensed up, shaking from surprise so much that his coffee almost fell to the floor. He turned around with a great quickness to see Sharon Kelly, or rather the intimidating persona of Silver Swan standing before him. Through her mask, he could make out her intense silver eyes peering back at him with a glimmer of intrigue. ::

"Jesus Christ Sharon. I've fought for my life twice in the last fourteen hours. Maybe not sneak up on a guy!"

[cocking a curious eyebrow]

"Wait a minute you can talk to birds?"

Are you in trouble? Do you need some help?

[ the silver gryfalcons stretched and fanned their wings a bit as Sharon looked upon Simon.]

It's not safe for you to be out here alone like this. You could be attacked again, and most of THEM (the birds of prey) don't have the power to repel the likes of Persephone and Black Widow.

:: He could see the birds up in the trees above them. Two curious looking birds that seemed surprisingly relaxed. Simon's gaze met Sharon's once again as he exhaled deeply. ::

"It doesn't seem safe anywhere anymore, Sharon. And right now..it appears that everybody is falling into a giant pit of despair. I'm not sure they'd be much help even if they wanted to. I'd rather not give people a reason to be even MORE divided. Luck is usually on my side, so here I am. I'm a risk taker in that way, I guess."

:: Carefully and with a bit of hesitation he put his hand on her shoulder. ::

"I was..."debriefed" as you superheroes say about what happened in the park. The Clocktower being hit jostled me awake. I was worried you all had been attacked again and I had slept through it."

[thinking]

"I'm sorry that things aren't going that great for you right now, Sharon. But yes, the "birds", as ludicrous as that sounds, were right. I have been looking for you."

:: Simon turned to face the front of his building. The silver "Vanguard" logo on the front of the building glimmered in the light of the morning sun. ::

"I had been wanting to talk to you since The Purifiers attack on the city..but I haven't had the easiest time recovering. I kept my distance from The Six...Birds of Prey. All of them. I needed time to mourn the loss of those kids."

:: His head turned away with sadness. ::

"I know..that I don't really know you very well, so this might come off a little intense, but maybe I'm just a little more intense now. That night. It changed me."

The Purifier Event

< Simon winced as he saw Ava collapse to the ground. He instinctively began to run towards her, dodging flames as he went until he reached her side and scooped her into his arms. The second their skin touched a chill ran through Simon's spine. He didn't know the others in attendance with Ava..but he had assumed they had perished along with the children. He didn't know what to do...so he knelt down and cradled Ava in his arms, holding her as tight as possible. >

"It's okay Ava...shhh...it's okay...."

< He looked at the building encased in flames and the surrounding fires that threatened to destroy the entire neighborhood. The rain was all but stopping. Simon was so gripped by wanting to make things right that he didn't notice his abilities permeating around him. All around the scene flickers of green swirling orbs and trails began to circle throughout the area around him. One blasted right into a nearby FIRE HYDRANT as water began to BLAST from the hydrant, dowsing a large part of the flames...as his energy signature hit the sky, the rain that had once subsided began to POUR like never before. Still he sat there...his intentions on making Ava feel better..making SOMETHING out of this situation go right.. both his and now Ava's body surrounding by the humming yet ethereal electric green energy of his ability. >

< The energy swirled around the area and through the bus..which was now finally not on fire thanks to the INCREDIBLE amount of rain pouring down.. >

< Flickers of Simon's energy signature drift towards the body of an unconscious and burning Sharon Kelly as it seems to enter her body and SHOCK her awake. >

< All of this...incredible manifestations of what somebody like Simon was able to accomplish if he could only tap into it and learn to control. Effecting change in a primed weather pattern, serving as a psionic adrenaline shot to the chest for Sharon..the random explosion of the fire hydrant. Still Simon couldn't open his eyes..he didn't even know what he was doing..he just knew that he couldn't bare to look at the aftermath of a situation like this. Ava seemed inconsolable as the rain barrelled down upon them. Cameron had told him help was on the way..but WHERE WAS IT? Why had this been allowed to happen in the first place...and WHO/WHAT was responsible? >

"I had never experienced anything like it in my life. It's what I think about when I go to sleep...when I wake up...when I allow my mind even a second to wonder from my day to day life."

:: thinking ::

"For awhile...I wasn't sure how I even made it through that...but then I remembered. You were a big part of that, Sharon."

The Purifier Event

[He wished to remain with Ava, informing Sharon that he was a FRIEND of her's. Nothing about him or his internal rhythms suggested he was lying]

Simon...I'm Sharon Kelly, also known as the Silver Swan.

I am a long time friend, ally and one-time member of Perspeh....AVA's close knit group of friends.

If you're a friend of her's, at the moment, I'm willing to accept that and trust you.

I need your help.

[Simon was already seeing to Ava and together, they carefully carried their fallen away from the scene of a NIGHTMARE.]


Thank you for your help tonight. Whether you think it was enough or not...you did SOMETHING in the face of a growing EVIL and that is more than can be said for most in this awful city.

I know you're not a normal base-line human.

You wanted to know WHY this happened?

Bad people...with UGLY hearts, believing that they're called by god, are attacking mutants across the city. murdering them, killing families, orphaning children...and now...killing the orphans.

"I was jolted...horrified by what I had seen. And you were so....strong. Just so clear on what had happened and what needed to be done. It was all I could do but to just...focus on your voice and move forward. I would have stayed at the scene of the accident forever. Until it consumed me too. And then...when things seemed like they would break..when everybody was angry and heated...you stepped in."

The Purifier Event - Charope LLC

WAIT...

[ SIMON shot back, well meaning, but not close to achieving what was needed. BOTH of their heart beats and other internal rhythms were playing a "song"...of RAGE. One that she HERSELF knew quite well, but oddly, in this bleak aftermath, she was not in that state of mind. Still, she could NOT let this be placed on Ava's doorstep. BEFORE Ava flees the room, Sharon removes the mask, watching as Haleigh seeks to reign in Zach's emotions and he subsequently DESTROYS some medical equipment.]

Zachary, It's the fault of those MUTANT HATERS.

For as long as i've known you, you've been a kind, decent, FAIR man. WE in this room KNOW the dangers and the TRAGEDY that come with being who we are. But those CHILDREN were judged by an EVIL that plays at being a "just ministry". Ava does not deserve your rage, THEY do. Ava was there with US. She does not deserve your condemnation. THEY do.

[ She declared]

Ava CAME to me while I was standing watch as you and Rose were attempting to load the children. It was SHE who provided me with the WARNING that Harbinger had given her.

If she hadn't come when she did...we would have been even WORSE off. We would have lost ALL of those children. If YOU hadn't been coming off that bus, heeding my call, we may well have lost YOU as well. I wouldn't have called out to you and Rose had it not been for Ava.


In the seconds immediately following the first attack and explosion, Ava was the first one on her feet, she started the effort to extinguish the flames while I flew into the bus to free and remove any surviving children.She cleared a path for me to pass the children to you and for Rose to get them away from the bus.

What happened to me...was an ACCIDENT. A terrible accident.

It may be little comfort, but it MUST be made clear, Ava DID her best. She came to me and was prepared to do WHATEVER she could to help us. Her and her companion, Simon

Those children's deaths are not on HER head, OR YOURS, Zachary. OR YOURS.[ she looks at Simon, whom she knew was deeply disturbed and traumatized as well by what he'd witnessed and been through as he too assisted as best he could]

Their innocent blood is on the hands of those MONSTERS, they've crossed a line that there's no returning back over.

Now...it's OUR TURN.

[ She places her hands to her temples and shuts her eyes tightly...]

:: He kind of half smiled, his eyes still lost in thought before his own intense pale green eyes looked back at Sharon. ::

"Something...shifted in me after that. I had just seen the worst kind of living and breathing terrorism right in front of my eyes. I didn't think that something like that could happen to something like me. I mean..I'm about as privileged as they come. That stuff isn't supposed to happen to people like me. We're just supposed to be able to throw money at things, write checks..get our good feelings from telling people about the good we've done...and there was someone like you...standing in front of me. I stared at you for a few moments..and I realized who you were..and I just kind of thought...and always thought...that somehow the people you were trying to stop had killed you. I remember your death on the news..it always seemed fishy. And there you were...alive in the flesh, after something so horrific, and you were strong...you were powerful..."

"You calmed Zach down, told him what a good guy he was. How much you respected him, and you calmed myself and Ava down...you RALLIED us. And everybody followed suit. You just felt so called to action...it inspired me, Sharon Kelly."

:: Once again he gestured to his building. ::

"So I don't need help..you've more than given me enough. I wanted to thank you..for kind of changing my life. I promise I'm not a fan boy or anything..but nowadays, I believe in paying it forward..of telling people how you feel. This is Vanguard..and soon, hopefully...it will be opening it's doors. A multi-functional political action group of the highest order. A haven for mutants in this country - complete with legal and social services, options...crisis hotlines, the works. Anything any member of the mutant population trying to live openly in this country could want. And I mean anything...if we have to hit the bad guys where it hurts, we will..I have seen a group of terrorists murder dozens of children in front of my own eyes. I will use every last connection I have possible to bring those people to justice...to ensure that no mutant has to walk these streets afraid...I want..I want to help make mutants not second hand citizens anymore...help break down the FEAR and the STIGMA..but I also want to make it CLEAR..."

:: His tone was firm. ::

"We are NOT a species that will be walked over for much longer. This is a GESTURE of good faith to the city and the country, that there CAN be peaceful co-existence among mutants and humans..but we won't wait forever for them to fall in LINE."

:: Smiling upon thinking of his vision. ::

"I'm gonna do whatever I can so that people like Katie can live a good...and SAFE life."

:: turning to face Sharon. ::

"And I have you to thank for that. For your calm head..for your inspiring way of being. For your strength during adversity. You helped make this possible..and I guess I just wanted you to know that."

:: He eyed Sharon up and down a little unsure. ::

"Too much? Sorry. I know it sounds so OUT OF THE BLUE..you can just go and pretend this conversation never happened..but I hope at least you keep the sentiment with you."

 

[Matrix]

This girl was giving me hell about this card and flowers. Yep, I made a goddamn fool of myself.

"Awww, Richie! This was so SWEET of you! "

"Of COURSE! I can NEVER get enough of a good drink...OR good company! "

She winked at him.

"Are you in a hurry? Why don't you stick around for a little bit here and then you can come with Cass and I to Ambosia for lunch! I'll even let you sit next to me! "

I had to laugh. I had no idea WHY this chick had me holding my breath just now. I wasn't in love but yeah...I was in lust for sure. But I wasn't even about trying to just hit. She spoke to me last night like no one had except Miss D. And she was not just nosy like most people. She was INTERESTED. And hell, I was enjoying this leg shot I was getting. She saw it too. I think that is why I was invited to sit next because she crossed them after she said it. What the hell, my schedule was free. I took a chair with a good leg view and relaxed a bit.

Sticking her tongue at Rich before turning in Sally's chair to face Andrew

" How about YOU, Andrew? The more the merrier!"

I nodded as she spoke. Might be a way to kill the post-incident shitty vibe he was still giving off. I was done with it and I would be better to him. But people move on in their own time, my Mama used to say. Just as long as he kept his hands to himself I could deal with him being a little salty.

I stuck my tongue out at Blaze to get her back, except I made it about 8 inches long, laughing at the look on her face when she saw it. Two can play games, Red.

 

[Valkyrie]

The Clocktower

Ashley tossed and turned in her bed at the Clocktower, her sleep troubled and uneasy. For what she saw in her mind’s eye was not the stuff of dreams, but of nightmares. Nightmares she had lived through once, and had no wish to live through again. But the gods are not that kind. Not this night.

<< FLASH! >

Aslaug was standing next to the bonfires in the center of the town, watching her father perform the sacrifice. Her nose twitched at the sharp smells of cinnamon & cedar burning in the pots, mixed with the metallic scent of fresh blood and the aromas of the feast coming from the great longhouse. The night was alive with music and activity: it was a celebration, and the entire settlement was there – for the following day her father would lead the men across the sea into southern Svearike to battle. All around her people danced and laughed in the torchlight.

Her smile grew wide as she felt a hand take hers from behind and pull her out of the throng. Aslaug didn’t need to look to know who it was, she knew just by the feel of his hand in hers. Her Kalf. She turned and he smiled too, leaning down to kiss her as he twined his fingers through hers, then pulled her along to follow him, away from the festival.

“Where have you been, you’ve been missing everything!”

He turned his head so she could see his smile.

Kalf: “I was busy. You’ll see.”

Her heart was near to bursting with joy as they made their way to the cliffs overlooking the bay, and into one of the caves. He had already built a fire, and there were furs to lie on, and food pilfered from the feast. And they could see clear out to the water from there, dappled by moonlight.

He wrapped his arms around her and held her close, kissing her softly. And then they lay by the fire and made love as if it were the first time. Afterward she laid her head on his bare chest, tracing the outlines of his tattoos with her fingers. She hesitated only slightly before speaking.

“I’m going with you.”

He picked his head up to look down at her and gave a sort of half laugh.

Kalf: “You can’t go with us.”

She pulled herself up onto one elbow so she could look down into his face, incredulously.

“And why can’t I? I’m the best fighter in this village.”

He smiled and laughed, rubbing her arm and shoulder in a soothing motion.

Kalf: “I know. I know you are. I didn’t mean that. It’s just…”

He turned onto his side to face her, excitement flashing in his eyes.

Kalf: “This is my chance, to earn glory. And wealth. So I can come back here, be somebody, marry you. Give you the life you deserve.”

She raised herself up a little taller.

“And WHY do you think I would ever agree to marry you?”

She was teasing him, but he rolled over onto his other side away from her.

Kalf: “I know, I know, what would you want with a poor farmer like me.”

“No, no, no…”

She pulled at him and put a hand on his cheek so he had to turn back to face her.

“Kalf, I would be proud to be your wife. Now, here.”

He looked up at her, disbelieving.

Kalf: “And live in a two room house, where you had to do the washing and the cooking because we couldn’t afford slaves or servants?”

“Yes. Better you here with me than off on some quest for fame.”

Kalf: “I have to go.”

“Then I’m going with you.”

And she kissed him before he could argue any more.

<< FLASH! >>

They gathered for the first battle in this new, foreign territory. Everyone was keyed up that morning - and Aslaug was tired of waiting for it to begin. Kalf leaned down to kiss her.

Kalf: "I'll find you when it's over."

"You had better - if I find you in a tent with a slave girl I'll cut your balls off as a sacrifice to Odin..."

He laughed, then leaned in close again.

Kalf: "Never. No other girls but you."

He kissed her again and touched the dragon tattoo on the back of her neck for luck before backing away, stopping to emit a war cry somewhere between a growl and a roar, then smiling at her and waving in farewell as he went to take his place with the other berserkers. He had stripped off his shirt and painted his face and chest with animal blood like the others. Aslaug, still laughing, took her place in the shield wall. The berserkers would attack first, in front of the shield wall, to demoralize the opponent before the main attack began.

The wall moved forward, as one, blocking the spears and arrows being thrown from their opponents, and the odd enemy that became too battle crazed and tried to rush them alone. An upward stab from the sword under the nearest shield took care of those foolish enough to try it. Once the berserkers charged, leaping over the opposing wall to get at the men and women behind it, they charged as well and the battle was joined.

Aslaug fought with sword and shield, using both as weapons, bashing the enemy with the blunt edge of the shield and slicing throats with the sharpened metal edge, stabbing through the boiled leather armor of her opponents with the sword. The fight was intoxicating, primal, ferocious. Nearly won. And then she heard her name.

Kalf: "Aslaug!"

An axe sailed past her and buried itself in the skull of the man behind her. She looked from the dead man to Kalf, and grinned, moving to pull the axe free so she could return it.

Kalf: "You WILL thank me properly for that tonight."

"Oh I was just about to take care of him when you butted in!"

He rolled his eyes.

Kalf: "Okay, whatever you-"

And then his eyes went wide, a look of shock on his face as she saw the end of a blade come through his chest towards her, then retract. One of the wounded on the ground had made one last effort. Aslaug screamed.

And then she took the axe still in her hand, and buried it into the murderer where he lay on the ground over and over again, until his blood sprayed her face. And then she dropped her weapons to the ground and knelt, pulling Kalf into her lap, cradling his head and kissing his lips.

His breathing was slow and wheezing, but he managed to get out:

Kalf: "I'll save you a seat by the fire in Valhalla..."

before the blood started to pour from his mouth.

She cried and held him as he died. And then the rage and fury exploded from her, and she picked up Kalf's axe and her sword and slaughtered anything in her way. She wanted vengeance. And she wanted to die.

<< FLASH! >>

The battles went on. Aslaug fought as hard as she could, fueled by hate, all the while hoping for her death so she could take her place next to Kalf in Valhalla. But death would not come. Instead she became feared. She fought without mercy, killing without conscience.

Aslaug stood, an empty battlefield spread out before her. Bodies littering the ground, sometimes two and three thick. The smell of dead flesh in the air, and a mist rising in the cool twilight air from the hot spilt blood.

It was at this time that she saw an old man dressed in shabby black clothes walking the field, a black crow on his shoulder. The old man approached her and Aslaug knew that this was no ordinary man. She knelt in the mud.

"Great Odin."

The old man reached out his hand to her.

Odin: "Princess Aslaug."

As she took his hand their surroundings disappeared, and they appeared to be in some other place. She could make out fires in the haze but little else.

Odin: "Asgard has been watching you for some time now, my child. We feel the time is right for you to join the Valkyrior. Should you accept, it will fall on you to lead my loyal soldiers into battle, and to take the souls of the brave fallen to Valhalla. What will you choose? But be forewarned: once you decide, you will not be able to go back."

Valhalla.

What could be better, than to be given the very keys to Valhalla itself, to roam its halls forever? There could be no question: this was what she had waited for.

"I accept."

And with those words her old life was over. Now she would protect Odin's people in battle, intimidate their enemies, speak to the fierce warriors who died serving their god and bring them to rest.

And so it came to pass that she walked the battlefield once more, this time as a valkyrie. She could see the souls that were to be taken, as if a bright light shone from them. She knelt beside one such, and touched his forehead, collecting his soul. Giant black wings sprouted from her back and she carried the soul to the gates of Valhalla. She nodded to him, and the warrior pushed open the gate and went through, into Odin's great hall.

This was what she had been waiting for for so long. She reached up and pushed on the gate. But it would not move. She pushed harder and harder, throwing all her strength into it, with no result. Another valkyrie landed near to her, bringing a fresh soul with her. Again, as before, the man was able to push through the gate and enter. Aslaug tried again, again to no avail.

"I can't open the gate!"

The other valkyrie, whose name was Kára, laughed at her as if she were a child.

Kára: "The Valkyrior cannot enter Valhalla! That is the place for those that have proven themselves in battle and died for Odin, not for those such as us."

Aslaug became pure rage. After all that she had done, all that she had gone through, to have Valhalla barred to her, forever! What a cruel trick the gods had played on her. She began to hate them, and to hate the puny people whom she had fought so hard for, who were allowed to sit at the great fire while she was left on this world to rot, alone. At this moment, she vowed, that never again would she allow herself to help another at the expense of herself. She would never love anyone again. She would care for no one and nothing so long as she walked the earth. She dedicated herself to bringing death and destruction wherever she went, using her powers to punish entire armies. For a valkyrie's purpose is not to be human, it is to bring war. And so she did.

<< FLASH! >>

Ashley awoke in the guestroom at the Clocktower, mind and purpose clear. She had faltered, but now she remembered who she was. And no giant bird or metal can opener or flower goddess was going to fuck with her.

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon – Spectra Couture


Last Night…

:: Shortly after they had parted with Dominique, Blaze apparently voted herself Leader and took Cass and Rich to Club Envy, where they danced up a storm. Though Cass had fun, she still kept herself guarded. After all, she didn’t know this Rich and so he had to earn her friendship, as Michael, Nicolas, Cameron, and Zachary all had to. Although, she HAD come a LONG way! ::

:: Next was Bar Six, where Cass indulged in the nachos – her favourite menu item – and Rich impressed Blaze with how much he could eat. Cass began to feel like the third wheel when Blaze began to tease Rich and vice versa. ::

:: Blaze again took the reins of the evening and had them all up in Cass’ apartment…much to Cass’ annoyance. Though she was having a good time, and she was nice and kind to Rich, that didn’t mean her apartment was ready for company. But she kept her thoughts to herself, and made a mental note to remind Blaze to NOT tell Rich all about her [Cass] yet. She prided herself on keeping some semblance of privacy surrounding her and her life. So she sat quietly while Blaze bombarded the poor guy with millions of questions. Cass asked a few too, when she wanted him to clarify some things from Blaze’s questions. Soon Cass fell asleep beside Blaze, and startled awake when she heard her door open and close. So she got up and went to the door, locked it, and headed to her master bedroom, where she promptly stripped down and fell asleep naked in bed. ::


Today…


:: After a nice breakfast ordered in from room service, Cass took a shower and was now ready to meet Blaze. Spying her friend up ahead, Cass ran to meet her. ::

*teasingly*: “So…what happened when I fell asleep, hmmm?”

:: Her friend laughed and pushed her in response, so Cass pushed her back. Laughing, they both entered Spectra Couture and made their way to the executive office where they encountered Andrew! ::

"DREW, honey, get your feet off Sally's desk!"

Blaze "ordered" as she waved her finger at him smirked.

"And make way! The DIVAS have arrived."

“Hey, Andrew. How’s it going?”

:: Cass took a seat and chuckled when Blaze bumped Andrew out of his seat. ::

"Sally asked me to check on the progress of "Fire Star" line that will be tied in to the big show at my club in a couple weeks. She ALSO wanted me to be here and "act" in her place while Derek Forrester was prowling around. Apparently he's in the area, and he always likes to peek in."

"He’s quite a character, Cass. You ought to meet him."

:: Cass nodded…a bit tentatively. ::

*carefully*: “I’ll look forward to meeting him.”

:: Though Cass had come a LONG way from when she first arrived in the Six, she was still guarded when meeting new people; especially MEN. Rich arrived then, and judging by his body language, it was as if she and Andrew weren’t even there. ::

“Hey Rich.”

:: He gave Blaze a present and Cass hid a smile. ::

"Awww, Richie! This was so SWEET of you!"

"Of COURSE! I can NEVER get enough of a good drink...OR good company!"

She winked at him.

"Are you in a hurry? Why don't you stick around for a little bit here and then you can come with Cass and I to Ambosia for lunch! I'll even let you sit next to me!"

Sticking her tongue at Rich before turning in Sally's chair to face Andrew

"How about YOU, Andrew? The more the merrier!"

:: Cass looked over at Andrew. ::

“Seriously…don’t make me be the third wheel!”

 

[Silver Swan]

Outside Vangard- heart to heart

:: Simon immediately tensed up, shaking from surprise so much that his coffee almost fell to the floor. He turned around with a great quickness to see Sharon Kelly, or rather the intimidating persona of Silver Swan standing before him. Through her mask, he could make out her intense silver eyes peering back at him with a glimmer of intrigue. ::

"Jesus Christ Sharon. I've fought for my life twice in the last fourteen hours. Maybe not sneak up on a guy!"

[ She just stands there looking at him. He's worn, his internal rhythms play a sad song of injury and anxiety. She's not here to hurt him. He's never given her a reason to WANT or HAVE to hurt him, not like those bastards at the clock tower, OR the hellfire club. Despite his status as a mutant, Simon is as much in need of protection as Sharon once had been.]

[cocking a curious eyebrow]

"Wait a minute you can talk to birds?"

I have telepathic rapport and command of all species of birds.

[ She gestures to her beautiful silver gryfalcons perched in the tree]

Artemis, and Antiope, my feathered companions.

I can see, hear and perceive anything that the birds around the city can.

[ Another aspect of her power that Simon may not have been aware of.]

:: He could see the birds up in the trees above them. Two curious looking birds that seemed surprisingly relaxed. Simon's gaze met Sharon's once again as he exhaled deeply. ::

"It doesn't seem safe anywhere anymore, Sharon. And right now..it appears that everybody is falling into a giant pit of despair. I'm not sure they'd be much help even if they wanted to. I'd rather not give people a reason to be even MORE divided. Luck is usually on my side, so here I am. I'm a risk taker in that way, I guess."

:: Carefully and with a bit of hesitation he put his hand on her shoulder. ::

[ Sharon's silver eye mask disappeared and she looked at Simon, then his hand on on her armor covered shoulder. There was an initial flash of dismay on her face, but it faded soon after. He meant no harm. If anything, he was being rather plaintive, and genuine. a REFRESHING change from the posturing she'd been around lately.]

[thinking]

"I'm sorry that things aren't going that great for you right now, Sharon. But yes, the "birds", as ludicrous as that sounds, were right. I have been looking for you."

:: Simon turned to face the front of his building. The silver "Vanguard" logo on the front of the building glimmered in the light of the morning sun. ::

[ When was the last time anyone had bothered to offer an ounce of care or concern, even when THEY had been going through hell? Probably Delilah, Zizi? But here he was, speaking so genuinely. Despite his former glamorous, play boy facade, there was something of substance that lay beneath, and if he were LYING, she'd be able to detect it. ]

"I had been wanting to talk to you since The Purifiers attack on the city..but I haven't had the easiest time recovering. I kept my distance from The Six...Birds of Prey. All of them. I needed time to mourn the loss of those kids."

:: His head turned away with sadness. ::

"I know..that I don't really know you very well, so this might come off a little intense, but maybe I'm just a little more intense now. That night. It changed me."

[ And then he preceeded to tell her HOW...and...SHE had more than a little to do with it!? She was taken aback, much like the night of the Black Out party, when she confronted Haleigh, and later Domino, but THIS time, it was a POSITIVE revelation, something to HOLD on to, not someone being cruel or twisted.]

[Truth be told, she had initially classified Simon as a VICTIM, WEAK. But There was something about him, even that night that stood out. He WAS a victim, and while he was "WEAK" in one sense, he was not spineless, or a coward. Not in the least. He had an investigative consciousness about him that Sharon could appreciate. It reminded her of HERSELF, going back to the night of when she and Robert would spend their last night together in the Arklay mansion. Even faced with such terror and impossible odds, whe would not quit, and neither would Simon, apparently. Sharon could appreciate that...RESPECT that even. It wasn't some naive, or FOOLISH nostalgia on his part. he saw the face of EVIL, and it COULD have destroyed him, but he allowed himself to ADAPT, he had a resiliency that COMPENSATED for the physical weakness.]

[ It...JARRED her a bit. She looked VISIBLY uncomfortable as He recounted that night of the "Bus accident", the aftermath in Charope's infirmary when she interceded as members of the Six and the emerging Birds of Prey were nearly at each other's throats, and even HALEIGH....]

::FLASH!::

Simon was losing his shit too, causing Haleigh to wonder just WHAT he sister saw in this whiney doucebag. She let Blaze talk him down, since she was liable to just trying slapping the metrosexual out of him. She wondered with exasperation at the men in this outfit acting more emotionally out of control than the women, and looked at Sharon, seeing the same expression mirrored in the Silver Swan's face.

And she just...... burst out laughing. She laughed so hard, she braced herself on the med bed, her whole body shaking with it. Every time she looked up at Sharon to EXPLAIN, the look of surprise sent her reeling again, until tears were streaming and her abs ached and she couldn't breathe.

Finally, she regained her composure, and was able make eye contact again.

"After EVERYTHING.... trashing my engagement..... blood brawl at Melrose.... and COUNTLESS personal disagreements..... it's YOU AND I... holding this circus together. Thank you. For Zach, for Ava, for EVERYTHING you've DONE to help our cause..... thank you."

WHY?!

[ Why was she certain THEN, but not NOW? She knew what it was, this woman, whom she had MORE than a simple history with, HAD proven that she could be equal parts infuriating AND reliable. But no one, not even SHARON could have imagined that she'd EVER just....WILLINGLY give herself to the woman...the very SOURCE of so much LOSS, TRAUMA and DESTRUCTION throughout all their lives! When she SEARCHED Haleigh's eyes during that confrontation of the Black Out Party, there was NO SIGN of the woman who stood before....BESIDE her in the battle against the Purifiers. She WASN'T lying when she said THAT was where she belonged. She wasn't even wearing the same BODY she had during the Purifiers caper.]

[ Zach, Simon, even Haleigh had listened to her THAT night, but Haleigh wouldn't listen to her at the Black Out party. All she had to do was give even the SMALLEST indication that she needed HELP, and Sharon would have LEVELED that mansion to get her out of there, but she didn't. She even MOCKED her when she called her out. Both she AND Ava did. And then...there was that miserable opportunist, DOMINO.]

[ And despite her EYE WITNESS and MULTI-LAYERED analysis of Haleigh in that moment, Zach wouldnt listen to her now, and had the gall to blame her for not telling him IMMEDIATELY? As if THAT would have made a difference in the way he was chosing to handle it? He WOULDNT. LISTEN. Just like Haleigh, just ROBERT.]

[ If Sharon was having a moment of WEAKNESS just now, it EVAPORATED. The look on her face returned to a more stone faced expression as she listened to Simon. There was something ELSE about him though that was becoming clear as he spoke from a genuine place. He wasNOT just about himself, nor was he blubbering on about how his pain and loss entitled him to be sloppy, foolish, or naive.]

[ He sounded...like HER, when she emerged from the ashes of her trauma at Arklay! She'd lost her son and her husband, she nearly died herself, but she survived, and instead of fading away into some catatonic existence, she rose up to become a ground breaking, POWERFUL voice and advocate for mutant rights, she became a champion for "THE OTHER" , and carried on her valiant efforts until the night she won her second term, and then died at the hand of Master Mold. Simon was speaking like a person on the cusp of true reinvention, becoming something that the forces and people that had tried to destroy him couldn't have imagined]

[ But he ALSO reminded her that in her CURRENT form, she was so far away from that woman she'd once been. Part of her...even with all the progress that she made, STILL resented the fact that she wasn't even allowed to be DEAD, to find out IF she could find her son and her husband in "the next life," and to become a martyr, a legend that would spur others to follow her in a truly good cause. The people she stood against had brought her BACK, turned her into a living weapon, and intended to USE her! But once again she defied the odds...but then what!? ]

[ Simon was finding his purpose, had she STILL not found her's? Maybe she was simply NOT meant to work with others because truthfully, she had LITTLE in common with them, save Alycia, and her few friends back in the Six....]

"You calmed Zach down, told him what a good guy he was. How much you respected him, and you calmed myself and Ava down...you RALLIED us. And everybody followed suit. You just felt so called to action...it inspired me, Sharon Kelly."

:: Once again he gestured to his building. ::

"So I don't need help..you've more than given me enough. I wanted to thank you..for kind of changing my life. I promise I'm not a fan boy or anything..but nowadays, I believe in paying it forward..of telling people how you feel. This is Vanguard..and soon, hopefully...it will be opening it's doors. A multi-functional political action group of the highest order. A haven for mutants in this country - complete with legal and social services, options...crisis hotlines, the works. Anything any member of the mutant population trying to live openly in this country could want. And I mean anything...if we have to hit the bad guys where it hurts, we will..I have seen a group of terrorists murder dozens of children in front of my own eyes. I will use every last connection I have possible to bring those people to justice...to ensure that no mutant has to walk these streets afraid...I want..I want to help make mutants not second hand citizens anymore...help break down the FEAR and the STIGMA..but I also want to make it CLEAR..."

:: His tone was firm. ::

"We are NOT a species that will be walked over for much longer. This is a GESTURE of good faith to the city and the country, that there CAN be peaceful co-existence among mutants and humans..but we won't wait forever for them to fall in LINE."

:: Smiling upon thinking of his vision. ::

"I'm gonna do whatever I can so that people like Katie can live a good...and SAFE life."

Katie....

[She said softly. Katie was with ROSE. ROSE...THEY seemed to think something was WRONG with her. Like they even KNEW her to judge her like that!? Like they'd bothered to think about anybody ELSE beside themselves? Zach hadn't seen her in a MONTH! What did HE know!? What did VIVICA know to be making such statements about Rose, someone SHARON knew before she died!]

[ Sharon would ask Simon about Rose, HE was there when she attacked Persephone, and saved him and Recall from the goddess' attack]

:: turning to face Sharon. ::

"And I have you to thank for that. For your calm head..for your inspiring way of being. For your strength during adversity. You helped make this possible..and I guess I just wanted you to know that."

:: He eyed Sharon up and down a little unsure. ::

"Too much? Sorry. I know it sounds so OUT OF THE BLUE..you can just go and pretend this conversation never happened..but I hope at least you keep the sentiment with you."

[ She looked at Simon, and ran her hand through her hair. She was...impressed, and genuintely TOUCHED. He saw her as something OTHER than "The vengeful silver swan" and he REMINDED her of what kind of good she had done WITHOUT using her fists or physical power. She could STILL do that...]

Thank you.

[ She took his hand in her's and squeezed it....being careful not to break his hand in the process.]

You may not...

[ She looked away for a moment as the breeze blew and her blonde hair flowed a bit]

You may not KNOW how ON TIME your words were.

Just when I found myself feeling LOST again, you offered a reminder, an ANCHOR, and I THANK YOU for that.

[ She smiled at him.]

I want you to know that what you're doing is important. You hold on to it, and the motivation you have, and no doubt you WILL succeed, perhaps to the same heights that I did, but in your own way! I'll never be a senator again. I'll never been the woman that I was...but I can still do PLENTY as the woman I am TODAY, including making sure that people like you are SAFE to do what you're called to do.

There's something else that you reminded me of that I need to speak with you about.

Katie is with ROSE.

SHE saved you from Persephone.

[ she gestured for him to follow her to a more secluded area behind the trees, commanding Artemis and Antiope to keep watch and alert her of any spies or intruders]

What was she like that night? How did she SEEM to you?

 

[Titan]

Spectra Couture

Andrew had done as Oracle instructed and gone home from the park to get some sleep. He didn’t really like the idea of leaving them to find and take care of Ashley alone, but he also knew that she was not likely to be happy when they found her, so maybe it was for the best.

The situation had gotten out of control so quickly – in truth, so fast that he wasn’t sure any of them knew what they were really arguing about. But Ashley was a mate, and he wasn’t going to stand by and let her be abused by a bunch of mean girls. Anyone who spent any time around Ashley could see she meant no harm, that she just had an odd way about her. He certainly would never have felt the need to worry that she would throw any of THEM through a wall…

But life went on. And work came all too early in the morning.

He had been thrown into taking over for Sally at Spectra when she had been in the hospital, so it was old hat to him at this point to confirm the orders, call the suppliers, and arrange the photo shoots.

"DREW, honey, get your feet off Sally's desk! And make way! the DIVAS have arrived."

He looked up at Blaze from the phone call he was on, quickly ending the conversation and hanging up.

“SALLY never minded.”

Divas indeed. Blaze liked to waltz in whenever she felt like it and play Sally Junior. She pushed him out of Sally’s chair, she and Cass laughing like hyenas, but he landed on his hands and balanced himself before launching into a kip and coming to a standing position.

Andrew’s particular view of Delilah Trelaven changed almost by the minute, but he knew the story behind why she now hated Blaze, and Andrew had to admit, he understood.

"Sally asked me to check on the progress of "Fire Star" line that will be tied in to the big show at my club in a couple weeks. She ALSO wanted me to be here and "act" in her place while Derek Forrester was prowling around. Apparently, he's in the area, and he always likes to peek in."

“Publicity materials have been delivered to all the usual outlets, invitations went out weeks ago and the guest list is being finalized, and finishing touches on the collection and model fittings are happening now, so we’re right on target for the show’s timeline.”

Of course, Blaze was busy giggling like a schoolgirl and making puppy eyes at Rich, who had just entered the office, so she probably didn't catch any of that.

Hey man. My bad. All me.

Andrew nodded to him in reply.

“Forgotten. Just looking out for my teammate.”

Blaze and Rich continued to make eyes, and just when he was going to ask if they wanted him to pass notes for them in study hall, Blaze invited them all to lunch. He eyed them carefully, not sure that they really wanted him to join them. But what the hell, he had to eat.

“Sure, but I can only grab a quick bite. There’s still lots to do here.”

 

[Firebird]

The Parthenon- Spectra Couture

I stuck my tongue out at Blaze to get her back, except I made it about 8 inches long, laughing at the look on her face when she saw it. Two can play games, Red.

Blaze's apple green eyes sparkle and her eyebrows lift with intrigue!

"Okay, Gene Simmons!"

She shot back as she smirked!

"Wow, that was..."

She looked at Cass.

"Well a girl can't HELP but wonder if a tongue like THAT would ONLY be for SHOW!"

Snickering a bit.

Rich's laugh was cute. It was nice to see him SMILE, LOOSEN UP! She hoped that he wouldn't get TOO carried away though, she wouldn't want him to be in "rare form" in front of Dominique...not just yet!

Even as Richard and Blaze made eyes at each other, Blaze could FEEL Andrew's scowl. He was staring at the three of them, clearly not that amused.

"What's the matter with YOU, Drew?"

They ALL looked at HIM now.

Blaze and Rich continued to make eyes, and just when he was going to ask if they wanted him to pass notes for them in study hall, Blaze invited them all to lunch. He eyed them carefully, not sure that they really wanted him to join them. But what the hell, he had to eat.

“Sure, but I can only grab a quick bite. There’s still lots to do here.”

"We ALL have plenty to do here, but all work and no play makes some people uptight and grouchy, and Sally wouldn't want that!"

She says as she rolls her ankle and foot around in her red bottomed high heel

"C'mon. We're always on our beat when it comes to business, and we'll be closing up shop EARLY as usual, and as long as things are running smoothly, Sally would WANT us to enjoy ourselves."

::FLASH!::

<< in that booming contralto voice of her's>>

SMILE, honey! My designs are for the LIVING and the SEXY! Not the DEAD!

:: Cass looked over at Andrew. ::

“Seriously…don’t make me be the third wheel!”

"Oh, he's COMING. He's probably just as HANGRY as Rich. You know how these men are....they won't turn down a good meal!"

Blaze says as she stands up, pulling Cass up right along with her, and Rich as well.

"Drew, I'm no more OR less of a BITCH than your ex-girlfriend. Try getting to know me on your own terms rather than being lead by her opinion. I'm really NOT as bad she says I am."

That would be all she said about that. She meant what she said to Dominique earlier. Delilah's opinions about damn near EVERYTHING had been jaundiced since the Blue Moon. Why ANYONE would let HER define their view of people they hardly knew, or anything ELSE for that matter, was beyond her. But she hoped that Andrew would be smarter than that.

She had NOTICED his impressive recovery when she hip checked him out of Sally's chair.

"Smooth move earlier. "

She meant that.

"One of these days you should come play with Cass and I in the Danger Room. You two, Richie! Special people like us don't have ordinary recess, and I've got some kick ass programs that I think you'd all enjoy."

Rich offered Blaze his arm and she accepted. She had Cass' hand in her other free hand, and off they went, with Andrew joining them.

 

[Berserker]

The Hellfire Mansion – Morning Room

After a night of very little sleep, but luckily which included a bath, Haleigh had slipped out early to her “secret lair” while he had stayed in bed and dozed for a short time before getting up and dressing in a casual day suit. Checking his appearance in the floor length mirror in his walk in closet, he grabbed the day’s newspaper and headed into the mansion proper to the morning room, where he usually enjoyed breakfasting. One wall was mostly windows, letting in that soft easterly morning light. The room itself had elaborate plasterwork detail on the walls, and was decorated in the Victorian style.

Newspaper under his arm, moving towards the immaculately set table that was laid out for him each morning, he suddenly stopped. And then a smile played on his lips, for who should be sitting at his table but Ava Cassadine, the Red Rook herself. He continued on until he was at her side. He leaned down to speak to her.

“Good morning. Mind if I join you?”

 

[Matrix]

Blaze's apple green eyes sparkle and her eyebrows lift with intrigue!

"Okay, Gene Simmons!"

She shot back as she smirked!

"Wow, that was..."

She looked at Cass.

"Well a girl can't HELP but wonder if a tongue like THAT would ONLY be for SHOW!"

She had NO IDEA. They seemed to finally settle the group at four and Andrew seemed cool with me so, fair enough. He was defending a friend. I could respect that. I offered Blaze an arm and I was apparently now ready to be led on another adventure.

"One of these days you should come play with Cass and I in the Danger Room. You two, Richie! Special people like us don't have ordinary recess, and I've got some kick ass programs that I think you'd all enjoy."

I am ready anytime to train.

Now THAT got my attention. It was hard not to....do what I do once you got used to it. Training was a substitute, a release that I always looked forward to. That and lunch...

 

[Malice]

The Hellfire Mansion- The Catacombs- Control Center

Every child needs a play pen, I suppose.

:: Diana laughed to herself as she looked at several floating monitors around herself and Helena::

:: Haleigh, Alek AND Ava were being WATCHED, by the White Queen, who used her psi powers to keep close "EYE" on each of them just now. It seemed that her wayward Scion was becoming a bit TOO distracted lately, and it was time for her to be REMINDED of where he duties lay.::

:: Diana, wearing an all white outfit , was in the control center of the catacombs. She knew her daughter had taken to..."customizing" an area deeper within the catacombs.::


Your little viking...

:: She says as she enjoys some champagne::

...has certainly acquainted himself well with Scion....AND her "sister."

:: She looks at Helena.::

Did YOU test him out first?

:: smirking as she laughed softly::

And while we're on the subject of Berserker, did he tell you we had an INTRUDER yesterday?

that enternal failure, Ashley Oldenburg, came crawling in here, hoping to pry "intel" from Berserker, doing her best Mata Hari impersonation. He promptly reminded her of her status...or LACK thereof... within these walls, particularly among the Inner Circle...and most DEFINITELY in HIS bed.

I wonder if Dominique has been taunting her about how much of an object of ridicule she is within these walls.

:: Malice smirked again::

But what displeases me, is that SCION happened upon them BOTH, and ALLOWED Ashley to WALK out of here.

I'm well aware of the sorted history between Berserker and Valkyrie, but he certainly did an excellent job of humiliating her, which I'm sure was far more damaging than any physical attack could be.

However, SCION should've known what was required when dealing with Oldenburg.

:: She looks at Helena.::

She'll have to pay the penalty for that.

:: Still "observing" Haleigh and Alek.::

::Haleigh was GOING to be punished and HUMBLED once more. This wasn't some GAME that Diana was playing, and Haleigh clearly didn't get the memo.::

:: Even know as she played about in her self improvised Danger Cave, the white princess had no idea it was coming, or HOW it would happen. That was ONE reason why Diana and Helena were down here.::

:: The plan had already been set in motion, and it was meant to be of benefit to BOTH Diana and Helena.::

 

[Lord Ravena]

• The Hellfire Mansion- The Catacombs- Control Center

​

Good day ladies.

Lord Ravena materialized in the Control Center, before both of the assembled Queens. His face was even, serious, but not grim.

The pair of you look as lovely as ever. I hope that I have not overly disturbed you. I promise that I will not be long, I have some business to attend to in short order.

He crossed his hands behind his back as he continued.

My nation, Ahadi, is completing several strategically important deals stemming from connections during the Blackout Party. As a part of a familiarization initiative of my creation in conjunction with the Queens, I have been inviting members of our Inner Circle to some of these events as my guest. Helena, your Red Rook was messaged by me and invited to one such meeting. She failed to even open my message, much less decline to attend. In speaking with her this morning concerning this breach of protocol, she felt the need to threaten me and attack me. This provocation I leave to you Helena, in conjunction with Diana of course, to deal with as you see fit rather than behaving....rashly.

He stopped and looked at the pair of them, then continued anew.

I will not tarry in interrupting your meeting. I have to set up a crucial manufacturing center in Ahadi. I would be honored if you two would be willing to witness and celebrate the upcoming groundbreaking. You have been welcoming to me and I would love to return the favor. Look for my invitation. Good day ladies.

And with that, the White King teleported away.

 

[Mystique]

She watched silently.

The Black Widow in all her glory. Except she was no longer the Black Widow, but SCION. Different name, same person--same HISTORY.

Haleigh was kneeling on one knee, reloading her pistols when she would hear a slow clap echoing around the dungeon.

"Impressive."

A voice could be heard. But Haleigh would see no one.

"Your reputation proceeds you."

Finally, Mystique walked out from behind a stone wall letting her presents be known. She lifted both hands in the air, palms forward in a 'don't shoot' manner. Almost as if she were MOCKING her.

"I come bearing gifts. Information you may find quite interesting."

Lowering her hands, Mystique kicked a few shells away with her heel.

"It could potentially put you in good standings with your mother......or at the very least......even WORSE standings with The Six."

Mystique smirked, her eyes glowing mischievously from the flickering of the surrounding torches.

"Interested?"