A green and pleasant land

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Haleigh didn't even have it in her to go another round with Morgan.... she had to get away from them.... she couldn't stick around any longer, and in a sadly transparent attempt to beat Alycia to the punch, and be the person who left as opposed to the person who got left behind, she willed herself deeper into the brush, refusing to look back, though she could still hear their voices. She didn't venture out of earshot.... though with mechanically enhanced hearing, earshot for Haleigh meant 1000 feet for a loud whisper.

It had been the wrong way to handle the situation... Haleigh knew that. Morgan was RIGHT.... Haleigh had a problem but anger was easier to deal with than the feeling abandoned and hurt.... and Haleigh was much more adept at lashing out and hurting back than she was at vulnerably admitting to the pain. How could she just up and LEAVE? Forget about us all? After everything.... She thought to herself.... they HAD been through so much... Alycia and Haleigh's relationship was a veritable rollercoaster, but things had started looking up.... they'd worked so WELL together at Arklay... they'd gotten along smoothly.... and they'd watched each other's backs.... and Haleigh had fought hard with the others to save Alycia from viral infection.... was it all for naught? Alycia was so eager to forget about it all.... maybe we'd have been better off to just let the G virus kill her. She thought bitterly.... but she didn't truly mean it, and surprisingly, felt guilty for thinking it in the first place. Still.... the idea that Alycia could leave it all behind so easily was painful to fathom.... it felt almost like betrayal and coming right off the heels of another of Cameron's mysterious disappearances, it was like salting a fresh wound....

A warm zephyr washed over the hybrid... gentle at first... then becoming a steady wind that seemed to urge her back to her group.... but Haleigh was stubborn. She didn't want to be there, awkwardly standing, skulking whilst everyone else cried and hugged and said farewell. Furthermore.... even SHE knew she'd been a world class jerk to nearly everyone and to go back would mean opening herself to further attack by Karen, not to mention Morgan, Alison, and two greek goddesses who probably didn't know [or just didn't care] why she'd acted the way she had.

Suddenly, Haleigh heard a new voice speak up, one which she promptly identified as the goddess Demeter.... She was a good deal gentler than Athena or Hecate.... and she offered a slightly better deal for Alycia and Sharon. It still meant they would leave for a while.... but leaving with the intention of returning later is an entirely different story than leaving and forgetting you'd ever been part of the family.... and Haleigh found herself standing dead still, leaning slightly towards the group, waiting for the answer.
 
[ Hecate stood slightly posed with her arms folded. Haleigh was a piece of work but she wouldnt be any LESS out of place if she were a peer among the olympians. at first glance, her outbursts understandibly provoked anger and outrage but after the LAST one, toward Alycia...she could tell there was something MORE to it.]

[ still, Hecate did not fancy playing a maternal or even an UNDERSTANDING role in all of this. Haleigh was getting too far ahead of herself, whether there was a reason for it or not. her golden blonde hair did flow as her silver eyes narrowed with irritation. Morgan defended Alycia and Sharon's right to choose, DESPITE her own feelings and the others spoke from their heart. Hecate's look softened as Persephone spoke...SHE had been through a world of pain herself even after leaving Olympus. Athena wanted it that way, but Hecate was in too much of a "daze" from all that happened to her as the result of the drama to really feel one way or the other. but as Persephone spoke, Hecate reached her hand over to her friends and squeezed it...the courage that it took to endure the loss of her family in Darkchilde's timeline, to be shunted to this timeline, forced to begin anew and then be INTEGRATED with the thoughts and memories of another person...it was more than anyone could have anticipated or even handled.]

[ suddenly, Hecate, the goddess with a heart of ice, felt EMPATHY. perhaps she was a bit out of touch, having departed t his plane of existence so long ago and forgetting the importants of human interacations...something the Olympians were all too much in need of actually.]

[ as Alycia and Sharon showed signs of clearly struggling with what to do, Hecate looked up as a white light appeared, heralding the arrival of Demeter! she came from Themyscria and perfect timing...she was a MUCH better "peace maker" and "comforter" than Hecate ever was.]

Demeter...

[ as the goddess of nature addressed everyone, offering understanding, and calm words, Hecate, clearly RELIEVED, looked at Athena...and whispered]

If she had been here moments ago, maybe she couldve stuck a pacifier in haleigh's mouth. that girl needs a serious attitude adjustment and i was seconds away from giving it to her.

[ Demeter was right, on all counts, she expressed what the others were saying and offered the benefit of a NEUTRAL party. someone who clearly wasnt "taking sides." Ororo would have taken a similar role herself, had she been here, but even ORORO's patience has been tried by Haleigh before. As she suggested a COMPROMISE on the options for Sharon and Alycia, Hecate felt that it was only fair to grant t his consideration.]

She's right...

[ she said flatly as the winds whistle in the night sky.]

we should offer more accomodation in this. We [ looking at Athena] remember how much grief and pain we felt when we lost Demeter....I remember how much MORE pain i felt with regards to Persephone and Hades. We owe these mortals the chance to avoid some of the pain that they are faced with now...we wouldnt be here in the first place offering them these choices if we hadnt known we had a debt to them. Sharon and Alycia need time to heal...to readjust and maybe they can't do it here like the others but that's no reason for them to not EVER be able to come back.

I can cast a spell...one that will preserve the memories even the SOULS of Sharon and Alycia as they pace through the portal.

[ she looked at Athena...]

and when the time is right, when they are READY to come back...you can bring them back.

[ she hoped Athena would agree and allow for this HIGHLY UNUSUAL change in protocall.]
 
:: Athena was BEYOND angered by Haleigh. She held up her hand...as a golden halo formed around it. she was ready to manifest her sword and strike Haleigh down for her disrespectfull, over the top hostile outbursts! how DARE she interfere with Sharon and Alycia!::

:: Morgan instead got in Haleigh's face and the hybrid went away. the way some of these mortals behaved, defied logic. Athena COULD understand their wanting to express their feelings about this choice she'd given Sharon and Alycia....their value and worth to the their FRIENDS went BEYOND the dynamic of "the team" and Athena understood that. She wouldnt have offered this to just ANYONE and she wasnt doing it to hurt anyone...only to help those who felt broken and beyond repair.::

:: as the members spoke, Athena's look of anger was tempered...Nicolas and Persephone perhaps touching her the most as she seemed to look almost..."SAD"? She had not kept tabs on Persephone during her time in Darkchilde's timeline but clearly the young goddess had grown in her own wisdom and understanding. maybe her hostility toward Athena was similar to Haleigh's hostile outbursts...a mask for something else? the idea that it could possibly even be EXPLAINED was a testimony to Athena's having let go of the centuries long GRUDGE she had held so close to her heart.::

:: as Nicolas held Sharon and then Alycia, Athena spoke.::

the choice may seem simple, but it is far from easy. beyond the portal is a special gift...a new life...BUT I, nor anyone else here can tell you what to do...your FINAL test, if you will, is to decide what is best for you. It is one of those times where you as mortals must , as they say, "follow your heart" but understand that where ever you decide to remain, you will not be ALONE...you can see

:: gesturing to those around them::

that there are people in this world who care for you...and your actions have not only earned you a special place in their hearts...but the recognition of people like myself and hecate who typical do not involve ourselves in the affairs of humans anymore.

:: she didnt WANT it to be hard for them...but it was the way it had to be. as Athena looked over with Hecate to see the arrival of Demeter. She was surprised at first, but then realized Demeter had very valid reasons for coming. Athena watched as Demeter offered as neutral but no less understanding view of the situation. At the core of her being, was the capacity to NURTURE and MOTHER...the perfect bridge between Athena's cold logic and Hecate's detatched bitchyness::

:: she watched the six, especially Sharon and Alycia who seemed to be struggling....and as Demeter offered a surprising compromise, Athena quickly looked at her Olympian sister.::

Demeter....

:: Hecate quickly agreed with Demeter and pointed out that they SHOULD help them along in whatever way they can at this point as their lives have been forever changed and that they OWED them that much.::

:: Athena paused for a moment as Hecate looked at her...and finally she looked at Bupol who cooed softly and seemed to agree as well. she gently stroked the white owl's chest.::

well, it would seem that you're right.

:: she looked at Sharon and Alycia.::

Demeter has offered a fair , balanced solution, one that I think is right for the both of you...and ultimately for your friends...your "family." With Hecate's spell, you may pass through the portal to not be "reborn"...but rather REVITALIZED on Themyscria. your time there will be that of healing, restoration and PROGRESS and while you are ready to return to this realm to be with your friends...I will gladly bring you back.

:: she smiled reassuringly at them::

if you ever doubted your value or worth...THIS MOMENT should forever proove to you that you are worth more than even YOU may have dared to think.

:: standing with Hecate and Demeter as they look among the group::

ALL of you have shown us the POTENTIAL that lies in the human species. slow though they may be...YOU represent the glimpse into the future...some of you have MUCH to learn, while others simply need to GROW INTO what you already know in your hearts....and OTHERS...:: looks at Persephone :: hide the progress they have made...for their own reasons.

:: a shocking acknowledgement to Persephone indeed.::

But if nothing else...you've reminded us...ALL of us that its NEVER too late to learn, to re-think....

:: looking at Morgan, Alison, Delilah and Karen::

and to be able to FORGIVE.

this world is truly fortunate to have such guardians as yourselves and just as Harbinger guards the artifacts and time threads...so it seems that Hecate, myself, Demeter, along with Ororo will watch over you and help you where we should from time to time.

meanwhile, use this time, this place to rebuild YOURSELVES, start your lives anew and face the world from a new place with new eyes. GROW from your experience and ADD to the WISDOM that each of you has within yourselves...and as you grow...WE will watch you grow.


:: she motions for Sharon and Alycia.::

come.

:: she smiles warmly to reassure them that everything will be okay.::

you will see them again in due time.
 
Aerie- through the portal

[ as Nicolas held Sharon...she found herself remembering the little boy that would peak out from behind Gustav's leg and smile sweetly at her. He would run to greet her at the end of recitals and other special events that she would attend to show her support for him and enjoy her time with Gustav.]

[ Gustav and Nicolas were not a REPLACEMENT for Robert and Kyle...just another CHANCE...once that Malice and Mystech ripped from her when Gustav was killed in a plane explosion and Sharon's own death at the hands of Master Mold. her return from the dead was an impossible dream/nightmare come true and Nicolas was instrumental in saving her from the poison that wracked her body after she freed herself from Riley's control. He stepped up for her as only a son could for his mother.]

[ all these memories, these moments flashed in rapid succession, climaxing to this moment.]

Nicolas said:
his voice a gravely slightly higher pitch of a grieving son who just realized that he probably would never be good enough to replace what had been lost.

Whatever you decide, I will stand by you. I understand how tough this must be and I wish you to stay...but..I understand, i-if you cannot. I only w-want you to be happy.
Click to expand...

[ she closed her eyes and held Nicolas, feeling the emotion he was trying to hide. was she making the wrong descision....was she ABANDONNING Nicolas? it was almost more than she could bear as tears began to fall from her eyes.]

[ Morgan , who seemed so shaken herself by the idea of their leaving, asked them to at least LISTEN to the others and to THINK...she even vouched for DELILAH...a woman who in times past Sharon had highly regarded.]

[ did they all really care? did they REALLY still care for her INSPITE of what she had become? if there was any doubt...Persephone erased it...with a touching show of empathy as she revealed a portion of her back story.]

she understands...and she survived...she's HERE....maybe i should stay..

[ and just like Alycia, Sharon no longer found it so EASY to make the choice. Athena said this was part of the process...a FINAL TEST.]

[DEMETER arrived, and not only validated Nicolas and the other's feelings but reminded Sharon that there was much she could do...and that Nicolas regarded her as a mother and that if she left him behind, she WOULD be abandonning him. but just as Sharon was about to express dismay, Demeter called upon Hecate and Athena to offer a compromise to the situation, to alter the protocall.]

[ they could go to themyscria, have time to heal, recover and GROW and PROGRESS. develop their physical and mental skills and return when they were ready. With Hecate's spell, they would possess their memories and feelings of this life and be able to come back with Athena's blessing.]

[ suddenly it seemed less daunting and immediately appealing.]

okay....

[ she looks at her friends...her FAMILY.]

Thank you all so much...for everything...

[ she looked sad but not as dismayed.]

I promise that I'll come back, as soon as I'm ready....

[ not wanting to prolong the moment, she answers Athena's summons and makes her way to the portal...looking back one last time before finally stepping through....and disappearing.]
 
a few extra passengers

:: Athena nods with satisfaction as Sharon passes through the portal....she looks over at the silver gryfalcons who are understandibly upset. she shushes them as she looks upon them.::

you can come too.

:: she says with a smile , indicating she must have telepathic rapport with certain animals. the birds , vocalizing, both immeidately took flight and quickly followed their "mother" through the portal.::

they will remain unchanged. On Themyscria, animals of a variety of species are highly regarded and considered vital companions both in times of combat as well as times of peace. :: she says as she gently pets Bupol on his feathered head::

some are even enchanted by various olympians. these birds will be well cared for and further trained so that they will be able to fight alongside Sharon.

:: looking at Alycia.::

and now, Alycia, it's time to go.

:: she says as she holds out her hand.::
 
Nicolas smiled as he saw Demeter appear. She was a calming influence even BEFORE she spoke, and her suggestion gave his heart some hope. The compromise seemed palateable to all involved and Sharon entered the portal, followed by her avian attendants.

As Alycia started to go, Nicolas grabbed her hand and kissed it lightly.

See you later, sweetheart.

He let her go, happy to know that they would see each other again. At once, he addressed Haleigh mentally.

Stop eavesdropping, and get your ass back here before I come GET you. Crazy girl...
 
:: It seemed that dispite hers and Nicolas' efforts, Sharon and Alycia would go through the portal and be reborn. Even thought Persephone wasn't particularly close with Alycia and Sharon, it saddened the goddess knowing how this would ultimately effect the group. Pressing her lips together, she watched as Nicolas tearfully said goodbye...she never showed much empathy or compassion toward Nicolas, but she looked on with misty eyes, knowing how tough this was for him. ::

:: Feeling her hand being grasped by another, she looked over to Hecate, realizing it was her. Feeling the reassuring squeeze from her friend, she gave her a faint smile, squeezing her hand back. It had been quite a long time since they showed any 'affection' toward one another. They used to be exactly like Alison and Morgan...sisters and best friends. It was unfortunate that her behavior and stubborn streak tainted their realtionship. ::

:: Suddenly, a blinding light emitting from the portal caused Persephone to look away from Hecate....a woman emerged...DEMETER! Persephone's hand slacked within Hecate's as her eyes went wide with shock. She hadn't seen her mother since she was brought back to life after the Ancient Greece caper....it was still a very tender subject for Persephone. As her eyes met with Demeters, she quickly cast them to the ground, avoiding her line of sight. Persephone listened as Demeter opened up to the group, expressing her remorse for their losses and how she was proud of them for what they have ultimately achieved. She soon spoke to Sharon and Alycia, giving them words of hope and encouragement...it literally puzzeled Persephone as to HOW she was related to Demeter. Her mother was so warm and loving. She was never snarky or stubborn. She always looked at things logically and positively. And what was truly amazing was that she was highly respected and never considered 'weak' for her methods. Looking to Hecate and Athena as Demeter offered Sharon and Alycia a compromise, Hecate agreed, explaining how she felt when she had lost Demeter. Taking her hand from Hecate's grasp, Persephone folded her arms tightly along her chest, rolling her eyes away and looking in the direction where Haleigh had stormed off in. Athena was hesitant at first, but soon agreed with both Demeter and Hecate. ::

some of you have MUCH to learn, while others simply need to GROW INTO what you already know in your hearts....and OTHERS...:: looks at Persephone :: hide the progress they have made...for their own reasons.
Click to expand...

:: Glancing over at Athena, Persephone scoffed softly under her breath, shaking her head stubbornly as she looked to Sharon and Alycia. Sharon agreed to Demeter's compromise and took the 'plunge' by walking into the portal. Shifting her eyes to Alycia, it was now her turn to begin her new life as an Amazon. ::
 
Aerie- on her way

:: she wanted to pass out. the well emotion rising up in her...but the arrival of Demeter helped her in more ways than one.::

:: Demeter provided the clarity, the perspective that Alycia could not find just now and with Athena and Hecate agreeing to bend the rules, Alycia was more COMFORTABLE making her descision to go through the portal. As Sharon left, Alycia, now almost in a daze, started forward at Athena's urging. there was nothing more to say.::

just a few more steps

:: a hand grabs her...and she turns sharply. its only Nicolas, not saying GOODBYE...but instead...SEE YOU LATER.::

Athena said:
if you ever doubted your value or worth...THIS MOMENT should forever proove to you that you are worth more than even YOU may have dared to think.
Click to expand...

:: Alycia heard these reassuring words, coupled with Ava's, Demeter's...everyone. this wasnt goodbye...this was just a chance for her to truly heal, recover and REINVENT herself for the new life that awaited them all.::

a life without adventure...is not a life worth living

:: she looked at Nicolas, still teary eyed.::

...see you soon, Nicolas.


:: and with that, Athena guides her through the portal...and in a flash of golden light..it closes and Sharon and Alycia are gone.::
 
a moment of silence

<< as two of the six's most trusted allies vanish from "man's word"...the portal closes behind them. BUT thanks to Demeter's input, a spell from Hecate and Athena's approval the two women will one day return, better off than they left, ready to rejoin their friends..their FAMILY...but only when the time is right. it was truly the best arrangement and a testament to both Sharon and Alycia that they had been granted an invitation to Themyscria by the goddess of wisdom and war....even if SOME among the Six were too blinded by stubborn emotion to realize it was for the best.>>

<< now the island was without two of its newest guests. the three goddesses remained, standing together, with Athena and Hecate shooting DAGGERS at Haleigh with their most disapproving glares and stances. Karen, Morgan and Alison stood together...the mother flanked by her two daughters..THEY TOO were showing visual disdain for Haleigh. her treatment of Karen and Alycia had angered many and while SOME could see the root cause...it would be wise to remember that her's is not the ONLY strong personality type and there are others who are just as INTOLERANT as she is STUBBORN.>>

<< the situation was quiet...but only SLIGHTLY less tense. the departure of Sharon and Alycia came on the heels of a much needed reconciliation between Delilah and those on the Six she was closest to...and now...as they all stood silent...one might ask...what happens next?>>

<< Hecate and Athena were preparing to leave. having done all the could. The six would live to carry on, but would forever have to reframe t heir thinking about the world in which they lived for they now lived "outside" of the world they had been so much apart of since they were born. it was a unique position....but not without uncertainty for them all.>>


<< only the waves, the wind and starry night sky continued to move as everyone seemed to "freeze" for a moment...so many eyes staring at Haleigh...so many thoughts and feelings.>>

<< Delilah should be greatfull...no matter how low on the list SHE might have been...she or anyone else in her position could ALWAYS count on Haleigh to PLUMMET to new depths of disapproval and offer a distraction from scrutiny time and again :D >>
 
Isle of Aerie

:: after a few moments of imagining herself TK'ing Haleigh into the bermuda triangle, Alison snapped back to reality. She SHOULDNT be TOO surprised by Haleigh at this point...but can you EVER get used to some people's maladaptive behavior? Haleigh, Alison and Morgan were the final three ORIGINAL members of the Six..you'd THINK that would count for something and for her part, Alison had come a long way with regard to Haleigh but the woman ALWAYS managed to pull the rug out from under her in terms of personal interactions.::

:: but what's done is done. Alycia and Sharon are gone...SAFE though. They'll come back when the time is right. the rest of the team is alive, thanks to something of a "divine intervention". and their lives now on a new , yet uncertain path.::

:: Alison felt very weary all of a sudden. She'd left Pandora on her own for over a week and while she as not in any immediate danger, ALison couldnt neglect her own responsibilities much longer. but more than anything...she wanted to be alone. She'd always been the one who was most comfortable going it alone even before she met Morgan and Karen.::

:: after a few moments of silence as everyone stood around, Alison looked at Karen and Morgan.::

I don't care to stay here tonight. I need to go home ...to Minerva's mansion and just get myself together....you know?

:: she knew Nicolas wanted to cook for them, but she just couldnt break bread right now...especially not with Haleigh. she needed time to recover HERSELF...the consolation? Aerie was off the coast from where Minerva's mansion stood...they were MUCH closer now geographically::
 
Delilah didn't know what to say to anyone, now that Sharon and Alycia had left. The mood of those still remaining was one of complete emotional drain. Awkwardly she backed up and turned in the direction Haleigh had come. Passing Nicolas, she stopped and went back to him. He was clearly upset by what had just transpired, and while she knew Morgan and Alison would be upset too, she had faith that they could deal with their emotions on their own. But Nicolas was still young and new to the loss that came with being part of this team. Giving him a friendly hug, she said, "I'll be right back."

She went into the forest the same way Haleigh had gone. Coming up behind the hybrid, Delilah put a hand gently on her shoulder.

"I wanted to thank you for sticking up for me back there. I know we've not been the best of friends...but it meant a lot. And I wanted to make sure you were okay. Are you okay?"
 
:: Pleased that Athena and Hecate agreed with her compromise, she looked to both mortals, smiling warmly. Even with the compromise, it was still difficult to leave friends and family behind, and Demeter understood this. Athena offered a helping hand, and soon, both woman had disappeared into the portal, claiming their new lives. ::

:: Everything fell silent soon after Sharon and Alycia's departures. Haleigh returned...and Demeter looked from one person to another, seeing their eyes searing holes into the young mutant. Stepping forward, Demeter lifted both hands in front of her, as if to say 'stop'. ::

"That is quite enough, from all of you. [looking to both Hecate and Athena as well] Haleigh may not have had the most poised of reactions, but she is doing the best she can to cope with the loss of her two friends, as are all of you."

:: Demeter's words weren't harsh or cold, however her tone was stern. She was very much the mother of Mount Olympus, and obviously the role had filtered down to the six as well. Looking to Alison who expressed her desire to leave, Demeter could see she was struggling with what has happened. Nodding to her respectably, Demeter bid her farewell. ::

"It was a pleasure to see you again, Alison. Stay safe and well."

:: Shifting her eyes over to Persephone, Demeter saw her daughter was quite detached from the proceedings; most obviously because of her presents. Knowing their [the goddesses] time on Aerie was coming to an end shortly, Demeter stepped forward, wanting to take this opportunity to speak with Persephone. ::

"I would like to speak to you privately, Persephone."

Persephone: "Don't waste you time, I have nothing to say to you."

"It's my time to waste. And we WILL talk. [gesturing toward the woods where both Haleigh and Delilah had retreated to earlier] Come."

:: Persephone was annoyed, and it showed blatantly on her face. Watching her daughter turn and head toward the woods, she looked over her shoulder at both Hecate and Athena. ::

"I'll be back shortly."

:: And with that, Demeter followed after her daughter. ::
 
Nicolas watched a Alycia said goodbye for now and went through the portal, the dimension door shutting behind her. He wiped his face quickly and turned around. There was still a lot of animosity left here (thanks to Haleigh) and Alison declined the offer to stay for dinner and beyond. He smiled in understanding; Haleigh was a loner a sit was, and a social event is ususally not her cup of tea. Add in Hales and she was not going to stay for anticipation of unneeded conflict. Nicolas walked over to her and hugged her tightly, despite her normal aloofness. He looked her in the eye as he spoke.

Thanks anyway for everything. You carry one hell of a burden, and to do that and still think of our welfare is admirable. Give Haleigh time, she was just hurt. You two can mildly disagree some other time. And I will always have something good to eat when you DO stay. I promise.

Nicolas kissed her cheek and then turned toward his setup. The grill was lit and began to preheat, the coals would take an hour or so to get where they needed to be. He would clean up and take care of some things as the coals set...then Delilah gave him a hug, reassuring him. He was heartened by her affection and returned the hug in kind. As she went to retrieve Haleigh, Nicolas called to her.

Front and center in an hour so we can hook this grill up!
 
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on Aerie

<< as Sharon and Alycia left, Morgan felt herself exhaling a shallow breath. it was almost like she couldnt FEEL anything right now...but she knew it was just a sort of shock, on TOP of the weary that she and the others felt. they had lost sense of time...at least those of them who werent precogs or had the benefit of tapping into computer systems. and exhaustion was starting to creep over the sorceress.>>

i already miss them....

<< she said to Alison softly>>

but really...it was for the best..for THEM.

<< she looked over at Nicolas, who was upset about Sharon's departure. Morgan would have to think outside of herself and be there for HIM more than before...for now his last physical link to Gustav...the woman who would have most likely become his step mother...was gone. TEMPORARY but still.>>

<< MOST of them looked in Haleigh's direction...but Morgan , being the witchy bitch that she was, was the first to say it.>>

I wanted to hit her in her mouth. If she had come ANY CLOSER to my mother or Alycia...I would have REMINDED her what it means to get HIT by a demon sorceress.



<< Athena and Hecate ECHOED her sentiments...in their looks and body language. But DEMETER, who was the personification of "mother", immediately checked her fellow goddesses and the witches among the Six. Morgan rested in Demeter's admonishing and folded her arms...>>

she may be right, but Haleigh needs to get her shit together. bottom line.

<< Alison expressed her intention to leave. Morgan had heard that tone before...and this was Alison going into a cold mode that was hardly breachable by anyone...including HER.>>

<< Demeter bid alison farewell and turned her attentions to Persephone, watching as the younger goddess immediately went into a different mode. a reminder that she too had a back story. before Persephone, it was only ALISON that had been shown to have such a disdain for her mother although Kelly King MORE than deserved it. Demeter was nothing like Kelly King. But the matter between Persephone and Demeter was nothing for Morgan to interfere, though the look on Athena's face was something all together different.>>
 
on Aerie

:: Athena helped send the two women on their way..reassuring each of them one last time before they entered the portal. ::

:: as she and Hecate joined in the growing wave of animosity toward Haleigh, Demeter REMINDED THEM that Haleigh was only coping as she could. despite her hybrid nature, she was still human and still possessed of shortcomings. even the Olympians had their struggles.::

:: Harbinger announced her departure and Athena looked upon her.::

fare thee well, Harbinger. give my regards to the young Pandora.

:: she nodded to Harbinger but her attention abruptly turned when Demeter announced she was going into the forest, ALONE with Persephone.::

NO!

:: Athena abruptly bellowed and immediately stepped forward, interrupting Nicolas and BLOCKING Persephone's view of Demeter.::

I can't allow you to go ANYWHERE with her ...ALONE.

:: her sister's death had affected her horribly the last time. she was too late to save her before. She wouldnt see it happen again. Demeter was HER SISTER before She was Persephone's mother and she would break Perspehone's SPINE before she let her harm Demeter in a fit of rage or some OTHER vaunted emotion. it was a deep seated REFLEX now...::

You're not on Themyscria right now and without our olympian abilities.... I will not leave you unprotected.

:: Athena saw Hecate turn as well... looking rather uncertain.::
 
<< Morgan grasped Alison's hand as Nicolas hugged her and kissed her on the cheek.>>

I don't want you to go Alison...but i know how you are...you can only take so much and then you have to go away for awhile. you're one of the few people in this world who could have lived in ILLUSTRA ALL BY YOURSELF and been content with it.

<< Nicolas promised Alison a wonderfull dinner when she next visited.>>

Or maybe...we'll come to Minerva's Mansion to see you and Pandora....

<< Morgan said with a shakey voice.>>

<< she looked at the spread Nicolas prepared. truly amazing. his creativity shown through but of course Morgan's appetite was almost non existent. she couldnt think of food at a time like this....but TIME was all they had now.>>

<< no more meetings, no photo shoots, press junkets...no fashion shows...no one to compete against for "most famour super model" in the world...some YOUNG CREATURE would soon take that title and Morgan would go down in infamous history.....>>

<< it all began to wash over her as she stared off... past nicolas, looking misty eyed herself. first their lives, then sharon and alycia...now Alison just HAD to go. She could hardly turn to Haleigh...that woman made it IMPOSSIBLE to ever trust that she'd be easy to deal with...and yet they were the only ORIGINAL members left.>>

Nicolas...

<< she couldntd say anything more as ATHENA shouted for Demeter NOT to go into the forest with Persephone. the urgency in Athena's voice said it all. Morgan looked at Hecate who actually seemed to be unsure what to do. >>

Athena....I don't think Persephone will do anything....not now..not after everthing she's been through since the ancient greece caper.

<< she UNDERSTOOD Athena's instinct. Morgan had it when it came to Blaze and her mother....but with all that happened..>>

Persephone won't harm Demeter...i'm SURE of it and Hecate can verify it...she's a precog...its where ALISON gets that power from.

<< Morgan didnt want to sound impertanent...but she didnt want Athena to jump to conclusions either....she wanted them all to at least TRY to relax and calm down but with so much tension in the air from so many places...it was hard to know just how it would go.>>
 
:: Watching Alycia and Sharon leave, Persephone was happy that they would still retain their memories and have the ability to come back and visit. It was a nice compromise, and one road she was glad they decided to take. With everything now quiet, Ava looked over at Nicolas who was trying his best to keep a brave front. Karen, Morgan, Alison, Hecate, and Athena were all still visibly pissed about Haleigh's outburst....and Demeter, she caught sight of her as she made her way over, expressing that she wanted to speak with her. With an even expression, Persephone declined, but Demeter basically 'told' her they were to talk. Rolling her eyes, Ava turned, making her way toward the woods when suddenly, Athena's loud bellows caused Persephone to stop. Turning around with narrowed eyes, Athena proclaimed that she didn't want Demeter going alone with Persephone. ::

Demeter: "Athena--"

"Oh REALLY?"

Demeter: "Persephone, stop.."

"No! I can't believe you [Athena] actually think I would kill her again! Four THOUSAND years and you still look at me like i'm nothing more than a rabid black sheep. Well you want to see rabid? I'll show you rabid..."

:: Stepping forward poised to attack, Demeter quickly turned toward Persephone, stopping her from moving forward. ::

Demeter: "STOP! No one will be showing anyone ANYTHING, do you understand me?"

:: Right on cue, Morgan stepped in, telling Athena that Persephone wouldn't hurt Demeter. She even offered Hecate's precog abilities to back up her claims. Persephone's eyes were black with hatred as she glared at Athena. Finally backing away, Demeter shut her eyes, turning to Athena. ::

Demeter: "I will be fine, Athena. I will only be a few short feet away. Alright?"

:: Demeter turned back to around, taking Persephone's shaking hand and escorting her to the forests edge. ::

"The NERVE of that woman!"

Demeter: "Just breathe...calm down. She's just worried about me.."

"And you are too, arne't you? I can see it in your eyes....you think I would hurt you again if I had the chance, don't you? Don't YOU! [ripping her hand away] I've gone through HELL and back in multiple time lines, i've GROWN as person...so you and Athena's warped perception of me can go to HELL."
 
Would you WAR with me? and JOIN the soul of Hades after i SEPERATE you from this plane of existence?

:: a war trumpet sounds off as Athena's golden helmet manifests on her head, along with her massive sword and shield , both composed of the same, mysterious "golden energy", manifesting in her raised hands.::

:: if was a fight Persphone wanted, it was a fight she'd GET...to her REGRET.::

:: it might have been irrational of Athena to fear for Demeter's safety all these centuries later...in fact it WAS. But every olympian had their points of weakness and for Athena it was the haunting memory of Demeter's bloody body in the halls of Mt. Olympus.::



:: she stared Persephone down, ready to lay waste but Demeter weighed in and as Persephone backed down, Athena stood, unwavering, but finally stepping to the side to allow Demeter access to her daughter.::


Demeter said:
Demeter: "I will be fine, Athena. I will only be a few short feet away. Alright?"
Click to expand...


:: Athena nodded slowly...but she would CERTAINLY be watching...courtesy of Bupol who was already nestled in the leafy canopy of the forest overlooking where the mother and daughter goddesses were standing. Bupol sat silently, as only owls could, swaying gently in the night breeze.::

:: back with the others, Athena finally let go of her legendary weapons as they faded from view...she looked at Hecate.::

I suppose some things are harder to let go than others.

:: she folded her arms.::
 
As Alycia and Sharon both opted for Demeter's compromise, Nicolas urged Haleigh to rejoin the group.

Not a chance, boyscout.... I don't want to watch the two of them walk away from us. And I can't LOOK at any of the rest of them right now.... On top of THAT, I can feel them GLARING at me from HERE. I'm not going to hang around where I'm not welcome.... besides.... I need to clear my head, alright?

She thought back, sighing gently as she came up on a brook and found a place to sit and watch the moon reflect off the flowing water. A few minutes later, she could hear footsteps approaching... and the realization that she couldn't truly escape smothered her like a thick blanket.

"Look, Karen.... I'm sure you're really excited to get me alone so you can finish me off and turn me into a vending machine or something, but how about a raincheck? I'm not up for it right now."

She muttered.... but Karen, like always, didn't listen. Haleigh felt a hand touch her shoulder and whipped around, startled. Karen wouldn't touch Haleigh to save her life. Upon seeing it was Delilah, Haleigh's face fell to relief.


"What the HELL, Delilah? Are you trying to give me a heart attack??"

Delilah said:
I wanted to thank you for sticking up for me back there. I know we've not been the best of friends...but it meant a lot.
Click to expand...

Haleigh shrugged.

"Don't sweat it... I'd like to think you'd have done the same. I don't condone your decision to go with Connor... that was pretty shitty.... but you went against your beliefs and stood by us when it really counted, so I'll let you slide... THIS time. Listen, I wouldn't have HAD to step in if you stuck up for YOURSELF. I know you respect their opinions, but why do you let them whittle you down like that?? You had to be feeling bad enough about it without them running you into the ground, you should've at least tried to defend yourself."

I wanted to make sure you were okay. Are you okay?
Click to expand...

"[amused sigh as she turns back to stare at the water] Man.... no one seems to understand. You'd think with all the collective intelligence the Six has, you'd all be able to figure out that when a person gets upset and LEAVES, they're NOT okay and they're leaving so that they can utilize some time ALONE to pull themselves back together and BECOME okay."

She says sarcastically. She pauses as a black panther emerges from the depth of the jungle on the other side of the stream and, unfazed by the women, proceeds to lap water quietly. Haleigh looks over her shoulder again at Delilah.

"I'm not okay.... but I'll live. I feel so drained... and I've had enough fighting for one night. God knows I can't be around Karen for more than 30 seconds without wanting to reduce her to a pile of ash. No one understands, LEAST of all Morgan... that's because she treats the rest of you like her children and Morgan is her little miss can't-be-wrong princess.... but to her, I'm the wicked, unruly stepchild sired by Satan."
 
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Black Widow said:
...but to her, I'm the wicked, unruly stepchild sired by Satan."
Click to expand...

Delilah sat down next to Haleigh and looked out over the water.

"Somehow I think you wouldn't have it any other way," she kidded. She laughed and hit Haleigh playfully on the arm.

"They do care about you, you know. Despite...everything. You wouldn't be here if they didn't. Same as me."

She picked at the grass beside her.

"As for why I don't stand up for myself...I guess I didn't want to make things worse than they were already. I just wanted it to be over."

She shrugged.

"I wish I could be more like you. You don't care what anyone else thinks."

She turned her head and looked at Haleigh for a second, before standing up and brushing her clothes off.

"But then again, maybe you do."

She moved to go.

"I'll let you have your quiet time. Want me to bring you a plate of something?"
 
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