A step forward

[Recall]

Parthenon - Club Envy - Main Floor

Vivica listened as Nicolas spoke of "Blaze".

Nicolas: Indeed. In fact, just a heads up, this is Blaze Victory. Blaze FIELDING...died. This young lady is her alternate from another dimension. We are having a party of sorts for her to help integrate her more fully into our timeline. And yes, that sounds crazy but in the end, YOU trust ME on this one and have some fun.

A sardonic grin flashed across her face for a moment.

"Well...let's hope THIS Blaze fits in better than the LAST one....She was HOT....but she was CRAZY..."

"Well, that sounds intriguing to say the least...I'm looking forward to meeting this 'new' Blaze!"

The two joked about the encounter occuring between Ava and Simon and her and Nicolas had a great laugh watching the two of them hookup faster than a Jersey Shore girl at last call.

DAAAAAAAAAMN. That man must be the god-DAMNED devil. Good luck to him. As for some things being hidden, this...

<<looks her up and down>>

is definitely not one of them. Not to dwell TOO much but damn girl...the art thing is treating you VERY well. I MAY have to hang YOU on my wall.

She smiled and slapped his bicep playfully.

"Boy you CRAZY! You trying to get me in trouble with a DEMON Sorceress and her MOTHER?! I got enough bitches on my back...I don't need the wrath of Morgan Victoria!"

She stuck her tongue out at him but it was all stopped in her tracks by the arrival of Alycia Barnett...but Nicolas assured her that there would be no problems.

Nicolas: I got you baby. Make sure you are ready for me!

She rolled her eyes and smiled.

"Oh boy, BYE!"

She made her way over to Karen and Mike and said hello to the both of them. She had heard about Karen's 'younger' gentleman friend and hell she could fault her. Mike was a good looking man for sure, not that Vivica was looking for ANY kind of comfort from a MAN...She could still appreciate tasty looking morsels like Nicolasand Mike.

<< Once again, a look of surprise briefly flashes across her pristine face as her eyebrows lift and her eyes widen. She swallows down the drink she just took hard as she looks up to see Vivica standing there.>>

<< clearing her throat>>

Vivica!

<< She says in her trade mark icy/pleasant tone. Extending her hand to shake Vivica's>>

What a pleasant SURPRISE!

I certainly do remember you....

Now!....

It has been quite a long time.

You've obviously managed to keep yourself together and safe during all of the...CHANGES that have occurred since the last time we saw each other.


<< Everything from Sharon's return to the Six being outted by Bishop, the fall of Illustra, WilPharma and Viper to the Blue Moon even>>

It's nice to know that someone from Cameron's life even before he came to be with the Six is still apart of it. I DO believe in maintaining connections. And he's come SO FAR as a young man...



<< Vivica complimened her dress>>

Thank you!

<< Smiling>>

You're looking very fetching in your outfit as well.

<< Looking over to Michael for a moment as she releases Vivica's hand>>

Michael was just telling me that he spoke to you at the bar, while you were talking to NICOLAS? That you now have an art gallery?

<< She did THAT on purpose. She wanted Michael AND Vivica to know that she was aware of what she'd seen.>>



I used to be quite a patron of New York's art/cultural scene when I was living and practicing my profession in Soho....before everything that happened with Bishop.

Perhaps I could visit your gallery when you have an exhibit?

<< She enjoyed tripping up Michael with her response, sure that he expected her to be bitchy to the girl, but while Karen DID have her concerns...Vivica came across as a genuine young girl had not given her a reason to come down on her...YET >>

I always appreciate the opportunity to enjoy art!

Karen commented on Vivica keeping things together in light of events that nearly changed the world. Vivica smiled.

"Thank you, Doctor. To be honest, I high tailed it from the states about a year ago. Decided to put that Art History degree I got to good use...I spent the year traveling up and down the coast of Europe! It was the best decision I ever made!"

She then mentioned that Mike had told her that about her Art Gallery, taking special concern to mention that Vivica had been talking to NICOLAS. She sighed to herself.

"Well...I guess that's confirmation that my little flirt with Dark Chocolate Knight didn't go unnoticed...Well...WHATEVER. I'm not fronting Nicolas at ALL, so THERE!"

Smiling.

"Thanks for the free publicity, Mike! Yeah...once I returned to the states I went to work on opening my own gallery. It's called "Belle Epoque" and it's in Chelsea! So far so good...the gallery game is DAMN competitive...but i'm proud to say we're turning a profit...and who can complain about that in an economy like THIS?"

Karen: Perhaps I could visit your gallery when you have an exhibit. I always appreciate the opportunity to enjoy art!

Vivica nodded in agreeance.

"I would really like that, Karen...In fact...the next exhibit coming up is MINE..My professional debut as an artist so to speak..I'm a little nervous and could use all the support I can get..I'll be sure to get the information over to you!"

Yeah Viv, Karen has been getting me up to speed on that. And I have been getting her up to speed-

<<Karen gives him a pre-emptive strike to the ribs with an elbow>>

on her combat training. She is even MORE formidable now.

Mike had always planned to say that, but Karen could not QUITE be sure. Laughing he continued.

I hope you enjoy the party. Nicolas and Cameron worked VERY hard to make it as close to perfect as they could.

Mike relaxed as he picked up his next drink and started to sip...

Vivica chuckled.

"Well, I doubt that Karen needed MUCH training..she is anything if not formidable..."

The three of them carried on, all the while Vivica became aware that she was somewhat being watched. She could see Alycia at the bar POUNDING a drink before grabbing another and making her way over.

"Great...The only thing worse than Alycia Barnett is a DRUNK Alycia Barnett..."

She tried not to notice Alycia but she MORE than made herself known as she walked over the table and SLAMMED her drink down.

Alycia: Oh, I'm sorry......Vivica. You're looking well put together.

Vivica could feel the rage BURNING inside of BOTH of them as she looked at Alycia like a wild jungle cat who's territory had just been invaded. She spoke back with a SNARL.

"Thanks, Alycia! You're looking almost legitimate yourself...but come here darling...you have something on your face...let me get it for you!"

With a scream she BARRELED into Alycia, GRABBING her by the hair and SLAMMING her head into the table repeatedly, as blood began to SPRAY against Vivica's face from the carnage before she threw her on the floor with a THUD!

"There! Much better!"

[looking to Karen]

"Can I refresh anyone's drinks?"

<<FLASH>>

"If Only..."

Vivica snapped back into reality as she RETURNED the predatory glance to Alycia and began to survey her up and down.

"As are you..."

She made sure to accentuate the point that she did not acknowledge Alycia by name..however, when one is given a completely facetious compliment, they got one in return.

"But enough about me, Karen. Do you still maintain your private practice? Or have you moved on to different things?"

 

[Longshot]

Parthenon - Elevator Ride

The two were in the throws of passion as the elevator raced up to the 94th floor. Ava was lost in desire as Simon was doing EVERYTHING he could possibly think of to keep the look that was on Ava's face firmly in place. As he did his thing, the two became lost in a moment...NEITHER of them realizing that the elevator door had swung WIDE open as their little encounter was free to view for anybody that happened to pass by. In fact, Simon realized the door was wide open far longer than he led on, knowing that they could essentially be 'caught' definitely turned him on even more. Simon spoke with baited breath as Ava pressed the emergency close button on the elevator and he moved back up to her lips kissing her passionately.

"You want to finish in the elevator? Mmm...I like the way you think..."

His mouth was completely emeshed to her body, kissing her lips and then her neck and then any damn thing else his lips could find on her body. Ava flipped the script as he alll but forced out of the elevator. They made it only a few feet down that hall as Simon slammed her against the wall and lifted her leg in the air with one hand, his other firmly planted on her ass.

"Let's just do it right here, then..."

[in between kisses]

"God, I want you so bad..."

Finally they made it to Ava's door and as SOON as she slipped the key card in, Simon was on her again, caressing her body with his hands as he got a full gripped of her hair, lightly pulling it for a moment before kissing her neck passionately. Then her finger grazed the inside of his belt buckle as Simon's senses wear nearly on edge. He stopped and stared at her for a moment, the two making INCREDIBLY intense eye contact.

"My turn..."

She whispered as her lips met his. Game On. He began to PEEL Ava's dress off of her body aggressively though still making sure not to RIP anything due to the fact that they had to go back downstairs in a little while. He kissed her neck as he went before whispering in her ear.

"Get your fucking clothes off.....and get in that bed, Ava...."

He began to unclasp her bra, his lips on her earlobe.

"Sorry, guess I'm a little bossier than I thought..."

Simon braced Ava and lifted her up off of the ground and into the air as he began to make a b-line down the hall, Ava was now nearly completely naked.

"Which door is it...Which DOOR!?"

He laughed.

 

[Black Widow]

Parthenon -- Ambrosia

Blaze: That day, I wouldn't have been much good in the way of a gracious host anyway...after being savaged by Nigel Barker from Tempo Magazine at my press conference for Spectra Couture. He did his best to try to get me nailed with a felony for "faking my death"...suggesting I was Blaze Fielding.

"Well her death was no fake. You want me to take care of this trout, this..... Nigel Barker?"

Blaze: Thank you. Get another one ready for me, will you?

"You might as well bring her two, and I'll have another as well."

Blaze: I can't help but wonder how things MIGHT have turned out during the Blue Moon if you'd been here. Maybe you could've convinced Morgan and Alison to do something even just a LITTLE bit differently.

"I would have insisted we include Delilah, that's all. Don't me wrong.... if she proved to be incapable of making a rational decision, I would've made the decision FOR HER..... but she should have at least been included."

Blaze: BUT I'm not a precog and please don't misunderstand me, I'm not blaming YOU for how things DID turn out. There's no way you couldve known what was going to happen.

"If I had known, trust me, I'd have been there..... and New York would be a smoking hole in the ground presided over by aliens. Cheers to that being avoided!"

They clinked fresh drinks together, as Blaze explained that Cameron and Nicolas had stopped her and convinced her to stay.

Blaze: I was...kind of out of my mind. Lost in a fog of grief and guilt over my sister, Delilah...fear that we were on the cusp of going through what happened in my timeline, since the fallout between Morgan/Alison/Delilah was what began those events in my timeline. After Nigle Barker tried to OUT me the other day as an imposter/ felon, I thought I should try to ESCAPE here before it was too late and start fresh.

"Well, I'm glad you decided to stay, Blaze. Your cross time counterpart and I enjoyed a great friendship..... we had our disagreements, but I still miss her."

Ava: If you like little tits and no ass, then yes...she's just your type Hales.

"Wait, what?"

Blaze: Well..."HE" is a SHE. Unless SHE is a drag queen! But no, she really IS a woman. Really cute, in a porcelain doll kind of way.

"Oh...... Well then, no thanks. I finished my experimental phase years ago."

Blaze: Kind of fragile in some ways... but powerful to be sure. Her energy is unique. Her name is Cassandra Johnson, b.k.a. Cass. Her code name is Ruby and she's a psionic succubus.

Ava: So basically she sucks you dry and spits you out later. Great addition, huh?

"Super."

She deadpanned, taking another sip. Under the smooth, smoky sherry oak left behind by the barrel, she could taste the slightest sweetness of honey in the scotch, and a hint of cinnamon, set off by the sweet vermouth.

Ava: Anyway ladies, as much as I love talking about Cass, I think i'm going to head up to Club Envy where the good alcohol is. And hopefully some gorgeous men. See you up there!

"Okay. I'll be up after I finish this one. Don't do anything I wouldn't do!"

She said with a smirk, then turned back to Blaze, who was thanking her for picking up the tab.

"It's my pleasure."

Blaze: Reminds me of how my Haleigh and I used to go out for nights of hard drinking. We pretty much drank EVERYONE ELSE in the Six under the table. Cameron told me you did that w/ Foxfire sometimes too, but SHE didn't have my power to "burn off" the booze with her metabolism.

"She did better than most... but yes... I also burn through alcohol. My heart beats so quickly now, several hundred times per minute, even at rest. Everything works faster, that's why I heal so quickly. At that pace, my body is hardpressed to even get drunk. I experience inebriation a bit differently, and even then only after having consumed enough kill a normal human."

Ever since the T.O. virus, Haleigh experienced A LOT of things differently than humans. And even more so after Malice 'revived' her. She had gotten what amounted to a operating system update, and Malice had left her another 'app': a telepathic firewall of sorts..... a psi screen that only Malice herself could penetrate. Malice didn't want any of her secrets getting out, and knew that the two telepaths in residence with the six would be all over Haleigh's mind if they could.

"So! Are you ready to drink these clowns into a blackout, or will you be fashionably late?"

 

[Persephone]

Sliding the key card into it's slot, as soon as she heard the door unlock Simon pushed his way in, assaulting her with his mouth as she back peddled into the livingroom. Her fingers skillfully unbuckled his belt and jeans button in record time--she pulled the belt clear out of the loops and tossed it to the side.

Simon: "Get your fucking clothes off.....and get in that bed, Ava...."

A throaty laugh could be heard as he began to peel her dress off, revealing her strapless black bra that he immediately went for.

Simon: "Sorry, guess I'm a little bossier than I thought..."

"Shut....up."

She managed to muster out between labored breaths and kisses. And then finally, Simon's hand went for her ass, lifting her into the air. She was slightly higher than him, giving her a great angle to deepen her kisses. He skillfully moved down the hall--Ava pushing the shirt off his gorgeous toned body as he moved.

Simon: "Which door is it...Which DOOR!?"

Smiling as Simon laughed, Ava looked to the left at the closed door that was her master suite. She didn't even have to say anything before Simon pushed through the door and tossed her onto the bed. Pulling him down on top of her, her dress was pooled around her waist and his pants were unbuttoned and unzipped, revealing his underwear. Biting his lip, she chuckled softly, her hands pushing his jeans off.

"We have an hour. Make it count."

She damn near ordered, her lips returning to his for another onslaught.

 

[Prophet]

Parthenon - From Delilah's to Envy

Delilah: “Listen, no one asked you to do those things. God, you sound like Nicolas, counting off on his fingers all the things he’s ever done for me. Did you think I really wanted to go back there and have to LIVE with those people all around me? Staring at me and telling me what a terrible person I am?”

Cameron gave her a completely dissmive *REALLY?!* kind of look as he matched her body language, propping himself up with his elbow.

"Yeah...nobody DID ask me to do those things...I did them, of my own volition, to ensure that, my friend who just went through some terrible shit and acted like a fucking zombie for the last month would feel at home and be returned to the SLIGHTEST degree of normalcy...FOOLISH me..."

He snapped back into reality, knowing that her anger was being directed at EVERYBODY and that it really had NOTHING to do with him. Still, though he couldn't help but comment. Cameron had been a VERY good friend to Delilah and he didn't say it in order to be thanked, he was just merely pointing out that she got pissy about him not talking to her for forty eight hours when she all but left town without so much as a word.

"Oh please, Trelaven..not with ME. And nobody FORCED you to go anywhere...I mean you definitely left easily enough right? You could have stayed in the city if you wanted.."

“Well I don’t know what YOU’RE doing but I plan to be at least 3,000 miles from the Melrose Place super bitches for the foreseeable future. But I AM an adult so I’ll go where I damn well please.”

Delilah got off the bed and stood up. She crossed to the vanity in the room and fixed her hair in the mirror. She looked at Cameron’s reflection as she spoke.

“Oh come on Cam, you don’t have to treat me like I’m made of glass. I’m not going to break. Now be my friend, not my babysitter.”

She fixed her lipstick with her pinkie and then turned around to face him and smiled.

“And I’m sure you have better plans for tonight than sitting in my hotel room keeping me company, so shoo! Go on, get!”

She ushered Cameron out, inviting him to stop by the next day for brunch to catch up.

Cameron had to admit...Delilah was kind of pissing him off and he was finding it a little difficult to maintain his cool. He BATHED this woman after the traumatic events of The Blue Moon...he sat with her, made sure she ate and tried to get her to talk...about ANYTHING. He stood up before Delilah ushered him out.

"Hey...I understand needing some space...you aren't the only one to skip town unannounced..Remember that..and you don't have to shoo me out..I'll leave. But know this...I DON'T think you're made of glass...I happen to think you're incredibly strong...but I sat with you day in and day out during a really fragile and SCARY time...so my inquiries as to where you plan to be, however ANNOYING it may be to you NOW, is from a good place..I'll give you your space, Dee...but don't forget to give me a little respect...I'm still looking out for you...whether you like it or not...or whether you care or not..."

His gaze softened. He didn't want to fan any flames but he also wanted to let Delilah know that no matter what state of absolute DESTRUCTION she seemed to be on, she STILL at the end of the day had somebody who supported her and CARED for her when she was in need...and that while NOBODY ASKED him to? He DID...He only wanted to remind her.

Cameron COULD have told Delilah about everybody downstairs, but at that moment he decided that The Parthenon was HIS home turf, and that turf included members of the Six and their ALLIES. If she didn't want anybody in HER business or to know what SHE was up to? Then SURELY she couldn't or at least SHOULDN'T be mad that life would continue to go on around her.

He took a few moments to freshen himself up as he rounded the corner and made his way to the elevator when out of the corner of his eye he managed to see a VERY HOT and HEAVY session going on between Ava and Simon outside of her door. Cameron may have stood there for a moment and watched...if only in a nod to his voyeur sister, before heading down to the elevator and heading straight for Club Envy where he was worried he might be a little late.

As he entered the door, his gaze met a very vamped up Delilah who looked at him as if she could kill him. Maybe she was right in that feeling and maybe she wasn't. At that moment, Cameron was a little hurt from their conversation upstairs and didn't feel like fueling the fire when something else equally as important was to take place tonight.

Delilah: "I don't want to hear it, King!"

Okay, that stung a bit. He would talk to her tomorrow. Making his way over to the VIP Lounge he was greeted with a strong Vodka Tonic as he rounded the corner, seeing Karen, Mike, Vivica...and Alycia all together at the same table.

"Oh...FUCK!"

Cameron had forgotten about the bad blood between Vivica and Alycia and walking into that situation his empathy went off like a lightning rod, both of the women seemed to be DRIPPING with contempt for each other and Cameron had felt a little bad. Earlier in the week he had promised Vivica that they work on reconnecting as friends and the first thing he invites her to has a person that she absolutely despises...a person that HE himself was very intersted in. He had no choice but to go in and act exactly in accordance to his desire. He liked Alycia a lot, and he would try and smooth things over with Vivica about it a little later on.

He took a deep breath and headed over to the table.

"Here the fuck goes NOTHING, King..."

"Hey GUYS! I'm so happy to see YOU!"

As Alycia got up from her chair, he grabbed her and embraced her in a huge before planting a romantic and somewhat lingering kiss on her lips. He petted her hair before leaning in and saying hello.

"Goddammit, Barnett...you are gonna make me start having HEART problems if you keep looking this good..."

He turned to Vivica and embraced her in a deep and warm hug, taking the moment to whisper in her ear.

"Don't freak out V...just be a good girl, and i'll explain myself in a little while..okay? Can we just have fun for awhile?"

Vivica nodded as Cameron turned to Karen Victoria and extended a hand for her to rise from her seat, as twirled her around slowly as if she were a ballerina in a music box.

"Well now, Dr. V...we are putting these little girls to SHAME tonight...Good to see ya!"

[kisses her on the cheek warmly]

"I hope you've recovered from our impromptu Dinner Party on Aerie?!"

[turning to Mike]

"Mike, my MAN! Good to see!"

He gave Mike a bro handshake before pulling him into the club.

"So I can see we are all slowly starting to arrive. I can see Cass out there, and Nicolas...Blaze no doubt will want to arrive LAST and FASHIONABLY late...And Ava...well...she forgot something in her room...I saw her on my way down..."

"And I wasn't the only one going down...."

"I hope everyone is enjoying themselves so far...This exclusive VIP lounge takes nearly half of the upper level of the club, behind these tables is a more private venue with our own bartender as well as bottle service for those who don't feel like moving. We also have a dance floor back there equipped with a special in house DJ and a stage where we will have a special performance some time later...and also, for Blaze and Nicolas respectively...there's a stripper pole as well!"

He laughed loudly.

"And thanks again for coming everybody. I know it's gonna mean the world to Blaze!"

 

[Longshot]

Parthenon - An Interlude

Before they both knew they were on Ava's bed, Simon was now shirtless and on top of Ava in record time, their clothes in various states of undress, hanging around on awkward parts of their legs. Ava grabbed his ass before sliding his jeans off his body.

Ava: "We have an hour. Make it count."

He leaned in, whispering in between kisses on her neck.

"Care what you wish for, Ava...."

Simon jumped up for a second, finagling his pants off of his body the rest of the way and dropping his underwear to the floor before taking a moment to get a glimpse of Ava's perfect and almost completely naked physique on the bed, illuminated only by the blinds who's shadows cascaded across her body against the lights of the city. She looked good enough to eat. Simon shook his head in near disbelief as he pulled on one of her legs, dragging her down closer to the edge of the bed as he bent down with his teeth, and slowly finagled Ava's underwear off of her body before spitting them out of his mouth and across the room. He looked at her again.

[outloud]

"DAMN..."

He straddled himself over, their bodies finally making total and complete skin to skin contact as both of their bodies trembled at touching in this way for the first time. He nuzzled his face deep into her neck as tendrils of her hair began to flow over the top of his head.

"You're beautiful, Ava...."

Simon's hands began to travel her body before the two of them got lost in ABSOLUTE pleasure. The noises could most likely be heard well into the hallway, but neither of them cared. While Simon was used to livng in the moment simply by the nature of his powers, he could tell that this was a NEW experience for Ava...and he planned on making it an experience she would NEVER forget....

 

[Rampage]

:: She stared at Nicolas with half-closed eyes then she shook her head as she went back to "normal". ::

"Everything looks great! I hope Blaze will enjoy it tonight!"

Nicolas hugged her again and whispered in her ear.


I find you...incredibly INTERESTING. The scientist in me wants you to have a taste, just to see, to FEEL what it is like. To see if I can stop you. To see if I can recover and how long it takes. Probably sounds crazy, huh? That makes your name rather apt, don't you think? The Cassandra of legend warns people of terrible things, things they should fear and they never believe her. One day, I will get to see the REAL Cass, just as you saw me in the Danger Room the first scenario. But for tonight...

<<Nicolas leans back and yells>>

Let's PARTY!!

Nicolas was putting things together on this one and he would bet anything that Cass HAS to be...hungry. When you have that power, it has to come with a hunger. And he found that incredibly intriguing.

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon - Club Envy: Main Floor

:: Nicolas hugged her again…but this time he didn’t let go as he whispered in her ear. Cass THRILLED to the ‘aroma’ of his energy. ::

I find you...incredibly INTERESTING. The scientist in me wants you to have a taste, just to see, to FEEL what it is like. To see if I can stop you. To see if I can recover and how long it takes. Probably sounds crazy, huh?

:: His words… God, they were TANTALIZING her to no end, almost as if he was intentionally GOADING her, TEASING her. As he spoke each word, her heartbeat quickened, she gasped softly, and her body trembled in his arms as she tried to fight the urge to SHOW him how it’s done right there. ::

Nicolas if you only knew…

:: She was considered a ‘vampire’ by various creatures of the night, actual vampires included, because she worked mainly at night [hence her choice career field over the decades] and she “sucked” the person’s energy from them. Though her succubus side made it easy to charm and enthrall many, MANY, people to get out of sticky situations and to get what SHE wanted, it actually worked in tandem with her psionic power. When she first came into the fullness of her power, and she avenged her family’s deaths on Nazi and Nazi sympathizers alike, in Germany they had actually called her ‘The Black Widow’ for a time due to her brown-black hair and the fact she left many women widowed during her rampage. The succubus side of things made it easy for her to claim victims. Before they even knew what was happening, it was too late…and they had experienced a PAINFUL and AWFUL death [or, in some rare cases, a coma-like state]. ::

That makes your name rather apt, don't you think? The Cassandra of legend warns people of terrible things, things they should fear and they never believe her. One day, I will get to see the REAL Cass, just as you saw me in the Danger Room the first scenario. But for tonight...

<<Nicolas leans back and yells>>

Let's PARTY!!

:: He let go of her and yelled in celebration. Cass took a few steps back, her breath quickening. Her fingers on her left hand felt through the air for the bar and then for a bar chair and she sat down. ::

*gasping*: “You DON’T want to see the real me. TRUST ME.”

:: She felt shaken to the core…and not just because Nicolas’ energy was enticing her. No, she felt a bit hurt because if Nicolas knew what was going on with her, and how his power/energy was like catnip for her, then CAMERON knew as well and he had been tempting her, knowing FULL WELL what it was doing to her, back in the Clubhouse. ::

*irritated*: Why the sudden obsession with my powers? Why dangle the carrot at all?

:: She wanted him to leave and then…she would go find someone to snack on. ::

 

[Rampage]

*gasping*: “You DON’T want to see the real me. TRUST ME.”

:: She felt shaken to the core…and not just because Nicolas’ energy was enticing her. No, she felt a bit hurt because if Nicolas knew what was going on with her, and how his power/energy was like catnip for her, then CAMERON knew as well and he had been tempting her, knowing FULL WELL what it was doing to her, back in the Clubhouse. ::

*irritated*: Why the sudden obsession with my powers? Why dangle the carrot at all?

Nicolas had started to leave, but he turned quickly back round. He locked eyes with her as he did. What was said next was whisper, buts Cassandra swore she could 'hear' it in her HEAD as well.

Because in order to help you, I have to KNOW you. ALL of you. Hell, I may HAVE to let you feed one day in order for you to live. We are ALL monsters Cass. All of us. Even what you saw of me today was just a glimpse. It gets much worse. But you need to see it, just as I need to see you. So THAT is why I dangle the carrot.

Nicolas smiles and Cass realizes that perhaps he CAN hear her. He smiles at the prett succubus as he leans in and kisses her forehead. As he kisses her, he sends her a portion of pure psionic energy.

Save a dance for me pretty lady. And make sure you are ready to keep up.

Nicolas turns and walks over towards Mike and Karen.

MA! You look as beautiful as EVER! If Mike didn't have first dibs I might have to make you MY girl!!

Nicolas leans in and zrrbts Karen on the neck as he gives her a hug and she fusses over the attention. He winks at Viv, having already spoken and takes Alycia's hand in his, kissing it. He gives Cam and Mike a pound and rises back to his full height.

So...how cozy are WE tonight? You guys ready to have some fun?

Nicolas smiles at the table, knowing the tension between Vivica and Alycia and Cam's likely discomfort. No matter. Tonight was not about them and he expected everyone to behave.

 

[Firebird]

From Ambrosia to Envy

"Well her death was no fake. You want me to take care of this trout, this..... Nigel Barker?"

She sighs as she stretches her legs and rolles her high heels around at the ankle.

"Aww...just like MY Haleigh would offer when someone stepped to one of the Six the wrong way!"

She smiles as she looks at her drink and then over eto Haleigh.

"Sally Spectra had him beaten up and then Cameron basically dismantled Tempo as a company. Once the word got out that Nigel and Tempo were banned from the premesis of Spectra Couture and any ofo their events, Cameron followed suit with Zenith and ALL of its holdings. He also placed some phone calls to investors of Tempo."

"Nigel's finished. "

Licking her lips as she gulps down the last of her 2nd mojio and happily receives her third.

"You might as well bring her two, and I'll have another as well."

She smirked. Haleigh was DEFINITELY a drinker. It would be FUN to try to see which of them would be under the table first.

I would have insisted we include Delilah, that's all. Don't me wrong.... if she proved to be incapable of making a rational decision, I would've made the decision FOR HER..... but she should have at least been included.

"Morg and Alison thought she'd fight them tooth and nail. I think they were right. I understand WHY...given who she is and all...but at what point does a person back off...in the name of SELF PRESERVATION?! I asked Cameron that and he basically said Delilah would race head long over the edge of a cliff into oblivion to have kept this baby."

"I'm sorry...but THAT makes me think Morgan and Alison WERE right. She WAS insane and she couldn't be trusted to make a rational decision. "

"Ughhh. I GET that she should have been told...about THAT. But I don't believe for a second she would have cooperated with Morgan and Alison. How do you try to help someone when they tell you flat out they'd rather DIE instead!?"

"Either way...they were going to be the bad guys...and the rest of us guilty for...i dont know WHAT she would've had us do really...it was all just one big clusterfuck!"

"If I had known, trust me, I'd have been there..... and New York would be a smoking hole in the ground presided over by aliens. Cheers to that being avoided!"

They clinked fresh drinks together, as Blaze explained that Cameron and Nicolas had stopped her and convinced her to stay.

"But...I'm sure there's a spell in the Darkhold that could've fixed that!"

She says with a giggle. She knew where Haleigh was coming from. There WERE other dangers out there that the Six wouldn't deal with for whatever reason, just like there were other mutants, metahumans and witches out there. They weren't the only ones....despite their uniqueness in this world.

"Well, I'm glad you decided to stay, Blaze. Your cross time counterpart and I enjoyed a great friendship..... we had our disagreements, but I still miss her."

This touched Blaze's heart. Cameron had already told her that her counterpart and Haleigh enjoyed a strong friendship here, but now, looking at Haleigh and listening to her, she could sense it from the hybrid. Cameron was right, Blaze Fielding HAD had impact on her team mates and it was up to Blaze VICTORY to carry on that legacy of heart and fire!

"Oh...... Well then, no thanks. I finished my experimental phase years ago."

"WELLLL, ya never know! Once you have a taste, you're BOUND to revisit it again...someday!"

Winking knowingly at Haleigh as she laughed softly.

"Super."

She deadpanned, taking another sip. Under the smooth, smoky sherry oak left behind by the barrel, she could taste the slightest sweetness of honey in the scotch, and a hint of cinnamon, set off by the sweet vermouth.

Blaze swallows down the rest of her 3rd mojito. The spearminty/7up was sweet/tingling on Blaze's pallet. She enjoyed it.

"Okay. I'll be up after I finish this one. Don't do anything I wouldn't do!"

"When she's got a few in HER, the list of "what she wouldn't do" gets QUITE small!"

The fire elemental snickers.

"See ya laterrrr, Ava! Don't be down there making ALL the men commit SIN for your forbidden fruits!"

She said with a smirk, then turned back to Blaze, who was thanking her for picking up the tab.

"It's my pleasure."



"She did better than most... but yes... I also burn through alcohol. My heart beats so quickly now, several hundred times per minute, even at rest. Everything works faster, that's why I heal so quickly. At that pace, my body is hardpressed to even get drunk. I experience inebriation a bit differently, and even then only after having consumed enough kill a normal human."

"Whew! Well...at least I know have a bonafied drinking buddy again! I had Cameron floating around Morgan's apartment like a faerie earlier today after just 2 bottles of champagne between us! "

"I was THIS CLOSE to taking advantage of him!"

Holding up her index finger and thumb as if to show a TINY space as she laughs. Blaze was out and proud as a lesbian, though FIREBIRD was more glamorous and "fem" than Foxfire and seemed that she might be JUST A BIT "curious" about the opposite sex...SOMETIMES.

"I used to toy with my Cameron all the time in my timeline. Though Cameron HERE is MUCH more comfortable with fondling my breasts than I would've expected!"

Blaze leans back and laughs loudly as she thinks about it.

"With all that sexual tension he has built up in him....ALYCIA better hope her amazonian body can handle all that energy when it finally comes out!"

Blaze said, unintentionally to the person who had a deep, emotional history with Cameron...

"So! Are you ready to drink these clowns into a blackout, or will you be fashionably late?"

"Haha! OF COURSE!"

"But you know, I learned from my sister, the IMPORTANCE of being fashionably late when you're the guest of honor at the party! "

Slipping off her chair, she pulls down her already high hemlined mini dress.

"I'll see you there, Haleigh. I just have to make a pit stop along the way!"

As she walks forward, she stops and leans over, giving Haleigh a light kiss on the cheek.

"It's good to see you again."

Blaze's aura was QUITE warm, an extension of her power and due to her alcohol consumption and that "HEAT" washed over Haleigh for a brief moment as the fire elemental gave her unexpected act of affection.

She saunters out of the club without missing a beat in her high heels and that knockout dress.

 

[Sally Spectra]

Surprise suprise

::After several hours of pure luruxy and decadence at the spa, including a full body massage from a NUDE male masseuse, Sally Spectra was purring...like a contented COUGAR.::

::she was attended by her style team as she prepared for this evening with her fabulous friends.::

::It was time to step out and enjoy the night, celebrating with friends and letting one in particular know that when you KNOW that you're loved, you don't need to roam!::

Ahhh. Purrrfect!

::She says with a roll of her tongue as she admires herself from several angles in her 3 way mirror in her black dress which showed off an ample view of her eye popping cleavage AND her legs.::

Ho HO!Watch out for the big girls!

:One of her team WHISTLES with approval as she shimmies in front of the mirror and then puts on her large diamond pendant, which will no doubt draw attention to her ample bosom. Sally was a woman who was large and in charge and she kept herself up VERY well, which is why it was no surprise that she enjoyed her share of much younger men.::

::Slipping into her high heels, one of her stylists hands her her clutch.::



Now don't wait up, boys and girls! Mama may not be back until LATE. You just go on and enjoy the rest of the night off.

::She blows a kiss as her staff cheers her on. Exiting her guest suite, she makes her way to the elevator, taking a moment to primp in the mirror in the hall.::

::Finally getting on the elevator when it arrives, she makes her way down, only to have it stop and as the doors open, who should be coming in but...::


Wellll, WELLL!

::She says in that smooth, contralto voice of hers as she smiles upon Haleigh.::

Look who we have HERE!

I'm just running into ALL of you around this place today arent I!

:: referring to Delilah from earlier::

Ya know...the last time I saw your little boy toy, Zach? I've NEVER met a man who is THAT TICKLISH when it came time to do a fitting for him and take his measurements for a tailored suit he needed.

:: A mischievious smile crept over her face::

Needless to say, that was QUITE a fun afternoon for yours TRULY! He really SHOULD try and smile a bit more often though!

::The image of Zach giggling and then crumbling in a fit of laughter as Sally takes his measurements and then PURPOSEFULLY tickles him a bit once she discovers how ticklish he is is an image that Haleigh can't help but smirk at the thought of::

Whadayathink? Huh?

::She asks playfully about her sexy outfit as she winks at Haleigh.::

I can move and shake with the BEST of 'em! Don't be fooled!

I'm just on my way down to Envy to party with my hot like fire sweetheart, Blaze Victory....

Say...aren't you going there as well?

::Eyeing Haleigh in her..."outfit". Haleigh replies and Sally looks dismayed, before shaking her head...::


Tut! TUT! My fighting GI JANE!

You simply CANNOT go to a party in THAT!

::Haleigh looks rather bemused as Sally sizes her up with a laugh.::

Oh don't worry honey, I'll fix you right up! Joan Rivers won't have you in her cross hairs on the Fashion Police as long as Sally SPECTRA is around!


:lacing her arm around Haleigh.::

Come on. We'll stop by my boutique and get you fixed up! One of the stores image consultants can do your make up and hair for you!

Now I won't here another word about it!

Come along, my dear!

::The elevator stops on the floor with Spectra Boutique as Sally practically DRAGS Haleigh out of it and into the store.::

Now you find something...

::Looking Haleigh over.::

With your tiny little figure it shouldn't be too hard! You've got long legs too!

Go over to that wall over there , your size should be in that area. Find something to wear and we'll get it accessorized!

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon - Club Envy: Dance Floor

:: Nicolas turned and locked eyes with her. Cass felt a thrill of excitement. ::

Because in order to help you, I have to KNOW you. ALL of you. Hell, I may HAVE to let you feed one day in order for you to live. We are ALL monsters Cass. All of us. Even what you saw of me today was just a glimpse. It gets much worse. But you need to see it, just as I need to see you. So THAT is why I dangle the carrot.

Nicolas: Because in order to help you, I have to KNOW you. ALL of you. Hell, I may HAVE to let you feed one day in order for you to live. We are ALL monsters Cass. All of us. Even what you saw of me today was just a glimpse. It gets much worse. But you need to see it, just as I need to see you. So THAT is why I dangle the carrot.

:: Then Nicolas smiled at her. WHOA. Cass felt her mouth watering more than it already was. She could hear Nicolas whisper to her, but she could also ‘hear’ him in her frickin’ HEAD as well. Not only that, but he could READ her mind as well! She wondered briefly if he knew that he was driving her damn near to the edge. He probably did. She also wondered what he would think if she just grabbed him and pulled him to a cozy little alcove and just drained the life out of him because.....DAMN. Her breath quickened and her heart damn neared POUNDED right out of her! Then he leaned in and kissed her forehead, sending her a portion of pure psionic energy in the process. Cass almost SWOONED. It was the equivalent to a nice, cold, tall glass of ice-cold water with ice on a hot, hot, HOT, day, and though it helped A LOT, she still needed to feast. Thanks to Nicolas, though, she could keep the craving at bay for the time being. ::

Save a dance for me pretty lady. And make sure you are ready to keep up.

:: Cass nodded. ::

*gratefully*: “HA! I will ALWAYS keep up…”

:: Nicolas then took his leave and she found herself alone once more. She dug into her Chanel bag for her phone and texted Bryan. ::

Well, I can’t say much for the rumours but as for the show I just watched thirty minutes ago? Ava Cassadine and Simon Pratt are halfway, if not there already, to Happy Land as I text this. Oh, thank you so much for another SMASHING outfit! Spectra Designs…not too shabby! Love you!

:: She snickered as she sent the text, giving him an update on Ava and her new man. Her phone beeped. ::

Sally just so happens to be a gay man’s wet dream, and if she isn’t? Then she SHOULD be. She’s our MUSE…or at least, MY muse. Besides, she was all too happy to help me out. She had been ITCHING to ‘sex you up’. Ready for a new, and more improved, new look? Go see her and her boutique. She had wanted to get her hands on YOU for awhile now. Get your picture taken by some paps, girl! Did you think I put a Google Alert out on you on my phone for no reason? Love you back. Xxx

:: Cass laughed. Sally Spectra was quite a character. She’d be sure to go up to the woman tonight and thank her for the dress…as well as make an appointment for some new clothes. She dropped her phone in her bag and got up from the bar. She had spotted Karen and Mike at their booth and she wanted to go say hi. However, as she was making her way to their booth, she spotted Thompson, a manager, giving her the stink eye across the dance floor. She sighed. She had never met Thompson, or any of the other managers, but she knew who they all were…like any GREAT club manager of the HOTTEST club in L.A. would know. Judging by his look, he knew who SHE was as well. She shrugged and made her way over to him. ::

“Thompson.”

Thompson: “Johnson. Don’t be stealing any ideas.”

*amused*: “Oh? Like I would REALLY be stealing from YOU. I’m friends with Cameron King. Stealing ideas from YOU would be like stealing ideas from HIM. Anyhow, I’m only here as a patron and a guest of Cameron’s.”

Thompson: “There are NO jobs here, Johnson! I don’t appreciate the threat—“

:: Cass narrowed her eyes and interrupted him. ::

“There is no threat here, Thompson! I manage After Dark; you manage Envy. I live in Los Angeles; you live here, in New York. I don’t ever plan to move here. I LOVE my life out in California. Besides…”

:: Cass looked around at the dance floor. Though the music was HOPPING and ELECTRIC, she just didn’t see that many people dancing. At After Dark, the floor was FULL almost ALL the time. She gestured towards the floor. ::

“Are you satisfied with THIS? The music is amazing and ELECTRIC! This floor should be PACKED with people!”

Thompson: “People are dancing!”

“Not enough for MY liking! This is Club Envy at The Parthenon, ONLY the hottest club in New York City. Not some hoedown in somebody’s BARN. This floor should be PACKED regardless of who’s here and who isn’t!”

Thompson: “Well, then, I suppose YOU wouldn’t mind telling me what YOU would do at AFTER DARK!”

“Tell you?”

:: Cass laughs. ::

“Oh, honey, I’m going to show you!”

:: She looks around and finds the perfect guy. He was looking hot and he looked as if he wanted fun. She made a bee-line for him and tried out her new nickname. ::

“Hi. I’m CJ. Would you be kind enough to help me with something?”

Drew: “S-sure! I’m Drew and I’m a great dancer!”

“That’s so cool! Are you a great singer? Do you like karaoke?”

Drew: “Um…yeah! I think so.”

“Great. Party for Two. Shania Twain and Mark McGrath. You in?”

Drew: “Um…yeah! I’m in, definitely.”

Drew’s Friend: “It used to be his go-to song for karaoke with his ex…”

:: Drew glares at his friend and then smiles at Cass. ::

Drew: “Let’s do this!”

“Know ALL the words, as well as their little noises?”

:: Drew nods and laughs as he follows the crazy woman to the deejay’s stand. Cass spoke to him, asking if he had two mics and then she hand one to Drew. Sudeenly, the music stopped and the opening notes for “Party for Two” can be heard. ::

Hey, Mark.

Drew: “Yeah?”

I’m having a party. Wanna come?

Drew: “Nah, I don’t think so, baby”

Oh, come on! Gonna be lots of fun…

Drew: “Yeah? Huh…”

:: And so it begins. Both Cass and Drew are TEARING up the dance floor as the song played, both of them keeping in tune with both Shania and Mark PERFECTLY. They dance close together and then they shimmy apart, even implementing some actions to go along with some of the lyrics. Soon a crowd of people began forming all around the floor, watching with interest and moving along to the beat. Drew and Cass, meanwhile, were having the time of their life! She was really excited to just let go and she was ecstatic to see people venture out to the floor and sort of dancing, but not wanting to disrupt the performance. All too soon, it seemed like, the song came to the end and word spread that the beautiful couple singing were named Drew and CJ [courtesy of his friends]. ::

That was great!

Drew: “Let’s do it again!”

:: People burst into applause and both of them took a bow, Drew somewhat embarrassed. ::

“You know, if you play your cards right, we really COULD be having a ‘Party for Two’ LATER…”

:: Cass whispered to Drew naughtily. Drew grinned at Cass and lightly kissed her on the lips then continued waving at the crowd who were shouting ENCORE! ENCORE!. ::

“Oh, don’t worry, don’t worry. This was just the PRE-SHOW. I have it on GOOD authority that there will be an even BETTER-LOOKING and MORE entertaining show later on tonight!”

:: Nicolas had told her, via text message earlier that day, that he and Cameron had coaxed Dominique Deveraux into performing. ::

Crowd: *enthusiatically*: CJ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! DREW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:: Cass was pleased to see the music had changed and MORE people were venturing out onto the dance floor to dance! She caught Thompson’s eye and winked at him and he just shook his head with a BIG smile on his face. ::

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Envy- VIP

"I would really like that, Karen...In fact...the next exhibit coming up is MINE..My professional debut as an artist so to speak..I'm a little nervous and could use all the support I can get..I'll be sure to get the information over to you!"

Yes, please do!

I have alot more free time on my hands these days, and It seems that I've been spending more of it in the States this last month.

Maybe it's an indication of things to come...like me returning to New York on a more...permanent basis.

Vivica chuckled.

"Well, I doubt that Karen needed MUCH training..she is anything if not formidable..."

Hmmm yes.

<< Karen said in a rather steely tone>>

And Michael needs to be...REMINDED...every so often.

<< Looking over to him with a bit of a smirk as she tossed her hair back toward him and laughed softly.>>

you're not the ONLY one who can poke fun, dear Michael...

She tried not to notice Alycia but she MORE than made herself known as she walked over the table and SLAMMED her drink down.

<< Karen and Michael BOTH jumped a bit as Alycia made her presence known.>>

HEAVENS, Alycia!

AlyciaOh, I'm sorry......

Vivica. You're looking well put together.

Vivica snapped back into reality as she RETURNED the predatory glance to Alycia and began to survey her up and down.

"As are you..."

She made sure to accentuate the point that she did not acknowledge Alycia by name..however, when one is given a completely facetious compliment, they got one in return.

"But enough about me, Karen. Do you still maintain your private practice? Or have you moved on to different things?"

Yes, really, ENOUGH about you!

::Alycia says matter of factly::

The world has enough bad news on any given day to deal with....

<< Karen nearly CHOKES as she was taking a drink of her sunrise sangria. Coughing a bit as Michael squeezes her hand. Alycia certainly was in a mood! >>

WELL! << clearing her throat and shooting a chastising glare at Alycia.>>

...as it happens, my licensing and credentials HAVE been restored << After they were revoked when Bishop outed the Six and their Allies>>

so I'm able to practice in the state of New York AND California now.

But I've been spending time in Greece. I find that being semi-retired is rather enjoyable.

<< Karen didnt expect to have to be "on duty" TONIGHT of all nights, as Alycia looked like she wanted to launch herself upon Vivica and Vivica's disdain for Alycia was becoming more and more apparent.>>

<< CAMERON finally showed up>>

"Hey GUYS! I'm so happy to see YOU!"

As Alycia got up from her chair, he grabbed her and embraced her in a huge before planting a romantic and somewhat lingering kiss on her lips. He petted her hair before leaning in and saying hello.

<< Whispering to Michael>>

Remind me to SLAP that boy...

Vivica nodded as Cameron turned to Karen Victoria and extended a hand for her to rise from her seat, as twirled her around slowly as if she were a ballerina in a music box.

"Well now, Dr. V...we are putting these little girls to SHAME tonight...Good to see ya!"

[kisses her on the cheek warmly]

Oh Cameron, you could charm the birds from the trees I'm sure.

<< She said with laugh as she received his greeting >>

"I hope you've recovered from our impromptu Dinner Party on Aerie?!"

[turning to Mike]

"Mike, my MAN! Good to see!"

Yes, that reminds me. The next time you decide to send Michael wandering to my suite in a drunken stupor, I'll have to return the "favor"...by turning you into a mushroom.

<< Karen said rather flatly before smiling and winking at Cameron with a glint in her eye>>

"I hope everyone is enjoying themselves so far...This exclusive VIP lounge takes nearly half of the upper level of the club, behind these tables is a more private venue with our own bartender as well as bottle service for those who don't feel like moving. We also have a dance floor back there equipped with a special in house DJ and a stage where we will have a special performance some time later...and also, for Blaze and Nicolas respectively...there's a stripper pole as well!"

He laughed loudly.

"And thanks again for coming everybody. I know it's gonna mean the world to Blaze!"

<< Karen sat down with Michael again, hugging him from the side>>

I'm happy that Blaze is feeling better. She really has come to fill a void in our lives that was left by ...Foxfire. But It's good that she can see now we see her for who SHE is...not just who she LOOKS LIKE.

It's just unfortunate that Morgan isn't here...or Delilah...

Nicolas turns and walks over towards Mike and Karen.

MA! You look as beautiful as EVER! If Mike didn't have first dibs I might have to make you MY girl!!

Nicolas leans in and zrrbts Karen on the neck as he gives her a hug and she fusses over the attention. He winks at Viv, having already spoken and takes Alycia's hand in his, kissing it. He gives Cam and Mike a pound and rises back to his full height.

<< She smiled and laughted softly>>

Why Nicolas, you're a very naughty boy!

<< lightly smacking him on his arm as she pretends to chide him>>

<< Still it was rather amusing, to listen to him talk that way>>

I have a daughter that's OLDER than you.

<< She said with a wink>>

You may have to come a little bit further down the road of life before you're able to capture and HOLD the attention of an older woman.

<< She was RELIEVED that there was more activity at the table now to COUNTERACT the VENOM being exchanged between Alycia and Vivica. She was still sort of..."on edge" about being in this place. But she was willing to go through it, for Blaze. That didn't mean she' be willing to tolerate TOO MUCH MORE foolishness though.>>

Michael...I believe I could use another...

<< at THAT moment, Cass and some young man burst on to the dance floor into some wild spectacle>>

<< Karen jumped once more, before placing her hand on her ample chest and shutting her eyes tightly>>

MICHAEL

<< She said with a raised voice over the song and dance>>

I'd like another drink now, please...

By the goddess!

<< She watches Cass with a mix of curiosity and dismay.>>

 

[Firebird]

Sometime later

The elevator chimes as a pair of black high heels steps into it. Turning around to face the rear wall of the elevator, Blaze begins to admire herself even if the image is warped in the golden wall of the elevator. Having doing a quick hair and make-up touch up, the fire elemental finally decides to make her way down to Envy.

"Oh yes...I'd definitely make out with myself."

She says matter of factly as she turns around once, twice and then launches into a little dance sequence right in the elevator. It STOPS, the chime sounds off...and an ODD looking Ava, along with some guy, who looks like the older brother from one of the kids in the Village of the Damned, steps in.

"Oh. Hello there, Ava. Fancy meeting YOU up here again. "

Blaze's apple green eyes move from Ava over to Simon. His heart rate is up. His clothes look like he JUST put them back ON and AVA, well the girl often forgot the devil was in the details, in THIS CASE, her HAIR, which looked like she just had a wild ride in the back seat of a car. Sex had a way of lingering even AFTER it was over. Especially when it was hot, heavy and RAW.

See? I told Haleigh this mischievious little HOOKER wouldn't have any restraint once she had a few drinks in her!

Blaze couldnt help but smirk and snicker a bit as Ava and Simon looked abit...UNCOMFORTABLE...not expecting HER to be there at that moment.


"SO!"

Blaze says as she decides to have some fun


Looking at Simon, eyeing him with a mix of intrigue and amusement while pulling out her compact and primping in it.

"You look familiar!"

"Are you an underwear model? Hmm no. If you were, you'd be working for Spectra, but you're a little too 'OPIE CUNNINGHAM.'"

She says with a mischievious, bitchy tone as she runs her hand through her auburn hair


"Did you sell vacuums at some point? You know the big powerful kind that SUCK UP...everything in sight?"

Looking over at Ava at that very moment, eyeing her up and down, before returning her gaze back to Simon

"Or maybe you were a teacher, who specialized in the "Three R's" You know, reading, wRiting and RING-AROUND-THE-BED!"

She tosses her auburn hair back and laughs loudly at Simon before looking at Ava and leaning in to whisper


"Fix your hair, sweetie. You look like a cockatoo!"

The elevator chimes and the doors open.

"Like a virgin....touched for the 1200th ti-iiimmmme?!"

Blaze sings as she saunters out, LAUGHING LOUDLY as she leaves Ava and Simon standing there.

 

[Rampage]

<< She smiled and laughted softly>>

Why Nicolas, you're a very naughty boy!

<< lightly smacking him on his arm as she pretends to chide him>>

<< Still it was rather amusing, to listen to him talk that way>>

I have a daughter that's OLDER than you.

<< She said with a wink>>

You may have to come a little bit further down the road of life before you're able to capture and HOLD the attention of an older woman.

Nicolas laughed at all of that.

Now Ma, if you saw me canoodling with some older woman you would kill her anyway, so what's the use? I can hear you now..."No one takes advantage of that young man! Begone before I make you wish you were never born!!"

With a flourish Nicolas waves his hands as if to cast a spell before laughing and taking Karen's hands into his own, kissing them.

MWAH!! I'll be good from now on...PROMISE.

Nicolas looks left and right devilishly...then speaks again.

Maybe tomorrow. Yeah, tomorrow sounds good. But for tonight, we party for Blaze and we have FUN. No time or space for our own personal issues, we can all get serious in the MORNING.

Nicolas clearly sent a message, even though he did not even look at the pair he was currently referring to. He DID look at Cam though, because this was in large part HIS mess and he expected him to be able to keep his shit in order.

Suddenly, Cass and some dude was singing karaoke and dancing their asses off. Ma was a bit taken aback, but he happily clapped at the display. As they finished, Mike was about to get up but the attendant was already there with their drinks. Nicolas took them, leaving a c-note in their place.

Mike ordered your second Ma...here it goes.

 

[Persephone]

Both Ava and Simon collapsed back onto her bed; the comforter was gone and the sheets were tangled and bunched up in various places. Out of breath, Ava let out a small laugh in between her breaths.

"Well you certainly lived up to your reputation."

Ava quipped as she sat up and slipped out of bed. It had only been an hour, but it felt like five glorious hours. And needless to say both parties were completely satisfied with the outcome. Naked, Ava bent down and scooped up her dress that was pooled on the floor. Not bothering with her bra and panties, she stepped into the dress and pulled it over her exposed frame before zipping it snugly back up. Glancing over at Simon as he began to dress, she noted the deep red scratch marks that went from his shoulders and down his back. Walking over to him, before he could put his shirt on Ava ran the pads of her finger tips along the cuts.

"In all fairness....you knew I liked it rough."

She teased, her lips sensually kissing where his shoulder met his neck. Pulling away, she allowed him to finish getting dressed as she grabbed her shoes. Steadying herself, she put her Louboutins back on and headed out to the living room where she had thrown her clutch earlier. Picking up her disgarded her key card, Ava caught a peek of herself in the mirror by the door. Raising both her eyebrows, her sleek hair was far from sleek anymore. Running her fingers through it trying to comb out the tangles, she smoothed her hand down the top finally straightening it out. Reapplying her nude lipstick, she looked pretty damn put together considering how she had spent the last hour.

"Ready?"

Catching sight of Simon entering the livingroom from the mirror's reflection, Ava proceeded to open the door and exit her suite. Walking to the elevator, she pushed the down button and waited....not soon after the doors opened revealing Blaze.

"Blaze."

Blaze: Oh hello, Ava! Fancy meeting YOU up here again.

Stepping inside the elevator along side Simon, she gave Blaze a small smile, side stepping her comment.

"Late to your own party? You certainly aren't Morgan's sister at all."

She quipped light heartily. Then there was the awkward silence. Normally, a situation like this would slightly embarrass the goddess since she was relatively private when it came to her affairs. But for whatever reason, she didn't care. She could tell Blaze was chomping at the bit to say something. The mischievous look in her eyes, the slight curl to her lip. Oh yes, snarky comments were coming.

Blaze: SOO!

"Here we go."

She deadpanned as Blaze immediately went into a series of jokes at both hers and Simon's expense. Rolling her eyes, Blaze finally leaned in an made a comment about her hair looking like a cockatoo. She knew THAT was a lie, but Blaze obviously said it to get a rise out of Ava.

"Duly noted."

FINALLY the elevator doors opened and Blaze began to sing "like a virgin" very loudly as she walked out. Her laugh nearly echoed in the lobby as she made her way into Club Envy. Sighing out, Ava shook her head and glanced over at Simon.

"Sorry about that. Tact and discretion aren't in her vocabulary."

The elevator doors slowly began to close with Simon and Ava still inside. Taking this opportunity, Ava moved in front of Simon, her eyes leveled to his. Planting a single, sensual kiss on his lip, they lingered for a few moments before Ava pulled away. With a playful smirk.

"Thanks for the good time."

Turning away, Ava pushed the open button and the elevator doors re-opened on the ground level of The Parthenon. Stepping out, she made her way across the lobby and back into Club Envy.

 

[Recall]

Parthenon - Club Envy - VIP Area

Vivica was actually enjoying talking to Karen and Mike. She had always admired Karen's uncanny ability to be poised and collected in the face of adversity. But she KNEW from Cameron's stories that even Karen had her limits, which Vivica respected. Nobody can remain cool, calm and collected every moment in every instance.

Yes, please do!

I have alot more free time on my hands these days, and It seems that I've been spending more of it in the States this last month.

Maybe it's an indication of things to come...like me returning to New York on a more...permanent basis.

"There is something about New York City, THAT's for sure...I may have visited some of the most beautiful coast lines i've ever seen...but there is something strangely comforting about being surrounded by all of these people and their energy...I love it here!"

She watched as Mike and Karen engaged in some playful ribbing with each other. They may have looked mismatched as a couple from the outside but watching them together, everything made sense. He seemed to lighten Karen up and SHE seemed to be able to reign in his boy like playfulness.

After Vivica's loud and obnoxious arrival and their LIGHT acknowledgement of each other's existence, Vivica tried to continue on with Karen.

"But enough about me, Karen. Do you still maintain your private practice? Or have you moved on to different things..."

And then Alycia chimed in, sounding like nails on a chalkboard.

Alycia: Yes, really, ENOUGH about you! The world has enough bad news on any given day to deal with...

<< Karen nearly CHOKES as she was taking a drink of her sunrise sangria. Coughing a bit as Michael squeezes her hand. Alycia certainly was in a mood! >>

WELL! << clearing her throat and shooting a chastising glare at Alycia.>>

Vivica stared at the woman for a moment, slowly coming to the conclusion that perhaps she SHOULD have greeted Alycia in the way she saw in her mind, but to see Alycia in such an obvious state of contempt was somewhat amusing.

She cracked a half smile and spoke in a lilted tone.

"Well, well! Order in the COURT!"

Karen ran immediate interference.

...as it happens, my licensing and credentials HAVE been restored << After they were revoked when Bishop outed the Six and their Allies>>

so I'm able to practice in the state of New York AND California now.

But I've been spending time in Greece. I find that being semi-retired is rather enjoyable.

<< Karen didnt expect to have to be "on duty" TONIGHT of all nights, as Alycia looked like she wanted to launch herself upon Vivica and Vivica's disdain for Alycia was becoming more and more apparent.>>

Vivica nodded in agreement.

"That's lovely. Retirement can be a lovely thing...but you know some people....they just don't know when to QUIT..."

She said eyeing Alycia out of the corner of her eye.

Everything seemed to come to a halt as Cameron King arrived. She noticed his appearance, the expression on his face, reading him in only the way that somebody with a brain like hers and a relationship like THEIRS could do. He was stressed out about something. Everytime Cameron was nervous, a vein on his neck pulsed every now and then. A small thing that not most people knew about him. She assumed it was probably the stress of setting everything up from the night...but THEN?

"Hey GUYS! I'm so happy to see YOU!"

As Alycia got up from her chair, he grabbed her and embraced her in a huge before planting a romantic and somewhat lingering kiss on her lips. He petted her hair before leaning in and saying hello.

Vivica's eyes widened with disgust as if she had just witnessed a horrendous car accident, only to her? This was WORSE!

"Oh HELL to the mothafuckin' NO!!"

He obviously sensed her agression and distress over what she had just witnessed.

He turned to Vivica and embraced her in a deep and warm hug, taking the moment to whisper in her ear.

"Don't freak out V...just be a good girl, and i'll explain myself in a little while..okay? Can we just have fun for awhile?"

She embraced him back lightly, sending him a thought call as he moved on to greet Karen.

"No need to explain, Cameron. You've had a thing for 'round the way' tricks like THAT since we were teenagers..."

Cameron greeted the rest of the people at the table before explaining their benefits.

"So I can see we are all slowly starting to arrive. I can see Cass out there, and Nicolas...Blaze no doubt will want to arrive LAST and FASHIONABLY late...And Ava...well...she forgot something in her room...I saw her on my way down..."


"I hope everyone is enjoying themselves so far...This exclusive VIP lounge takes nearly half of the upper level of the club, behind these tables is a more private venue with our own bartender as well as bottle service for those who don't feel like moving. We also have a dance floor back there equipped with a special in house DJ and a stage where we will have a special performance some time later...and also, for Blaze and Nicolas respectively...there's a stripper pole as well!"

He laughed loudly.

"And thanks again for coming everybody. I know it's gonna mean the world to Blaze!"

She let out an exasperated sigh as Nicolas walked up to the group.

Nicolas turns and walks over towards Mike and Karen.

MA! You look as beautiful as EVER! If Mike didn't have first dibs I might have to make you MY girl!!

Nicolas leans in and zrrbts Karen on the neck as he gives her a hug and she fusses over the attention. He winks at Viv, having already spoken and takes Alycia's hand in his, kissing it. He gives Cam and Mike a pound and rises back to his full height.

So...how cozy are WE tonight? You guys ready to have some fun?

Nicolas smiles at the table, knowing the tension between Vivica and Alycia and Cam's likely discomfort. No matter. Tonight was not about them and he expected everyone to behave.

She had to laugh at Nicolas attempt to break the tension for everybody. Sighing she put her arm around Nicolas and laughed.

"Well, if we all start drinking as much as it appears Alycia has already, I think we are ALL in for a good time!"

Vivica began to walk away, heading STRAIGHT for the bar. If she had to deal with Alycia and Ava...and ALYCIA AND CAMERON!? She was going to need liquor...ALL of the liquor.

ith a flourish Nicolas waves his hands as if to cast a spell before laughing and taking Karen's hands into his own, kissing them.

MWAH!! I'll be good from now on...PROMISE.

Nicolas looks left and right devilishly...then speaks again.

Maybe tomorrow. Yeah, tomorrow sounds good. But for tonight, we party for Blaze and we have FUN. No time or space for our own personal issues, we can all get serious in the MORNING.

Nicolas clearly sent a message, even though he did not even look at the pair he was currently referring to. He DID look at Cam though, because this was in large part HIS mess and he expected him to be able to keep his shit in order.

She turned around and began to walk backwards, her hands in the 'praying' position as she cracked a devilish smile.

"Sister Mary Vivica from her on out Nicolas! I promise! Now if you'll excuse me, I need another damn drink...and I think CAMERON might be just the person to get it with me! Karen? Mike! Very happy to see you...I'll catch up with you both later!"

And with that Vivica walked into the PRIVATE VIP Lounge that had been reserved for the party as she went to the bar and SLAMMED her hand down on the counter in anger. The bartender seemed startled. She rolled her eyes and placed her fingers on the bridge of her nose, scanning her brain for a few moments to make sure that she did in fact have the correct "skills" downloaded in case she needed them.

"So...[looking at the bartenders nametag] Steven..I'm going to order a DOUBLE Vodka...on the ROCKS... in a tall glass please...and I'm going to need you to KEEP them coming...at a STEADY pace...."

He still looked a litle unsure.

[deadpan]

"I'm spending the evening with a woman who at one point SHOT me and left me for dead and my oldest friend in the entire world is trying to get his freak on with a woman I would rather have my skin peeled off with a potato peeler than ever see again...Help a bitch out..."

The bartender's eyes widened at her words before nodding and preparing her drink.

"Cameron King, you get your hot to trot ass OVER to this bar!"

The thought call was sent with great speed and intensity. This night was beginning to turn sour for her. Alycia on her own, she could HANDLE...but knowing that HE was pursuing her like THAT? Hell NO.

 

[Longshot]

From Esctacy to Club Envy...

"Sweet Jesus..."

He exhaled heavily as he and Ava collapsed on to her bed, which was in a complete state of chaos, the sheets tangled up into a ball and the comforter was somewhere, but it definitely wasn't in the bed. He put his arm around her as their bodies remained intertwined for a few glorious moments. Ava had been spectacular and he was more than confident that he was able to satisfy whatever it was that she had been looking for tonight that caused her to be so uncharacteristically impulsive. He kissed her cheek and squeezed her in his arms for a moment as she sat up and got out of bed.

Ava: Well...you certainly lived up to your reputation.

Simon smiled as he too rose from the bed. To be honest he would have much rather have spent the rest of the night in bed causing Ava to make whatever that noise was she was making earlier. He began to search around for his underwear.

"Well...all I will say is that anybody who calls you an 'Ice Queen' has obviously never slept with you...because that was HOT!"

He found his shirt first, looking at his shoulders in the mirror on the wall. Deep red well earned scratches adorned his body as Ava walked over to him, her hands running gently along the scratches as the hairs on the back of his neck stood on end for a moment.

Ava: "In all fairness...you knew I liked it rough."

He smiled as she kissed the bottom of his neck at the top of his shoulder. Simon lifted the back of her dress up, revealing Ava's perfect ass..which was just the faintest hint of PINK.

"I'm pretty proud of my work...now get away from me or we are never going to leave this room!"

He gave her ass a light smack as he slowly found his clothes and put them on quickly.

Ava: Ready?

"Lead the way..."

Ava primped herself in the mirror for a moment as they headed back out into the hallway and made their way to the private access elevator, when they were greeted by a tall and beautiful looking red head in the elevator. She was apparently a friend of Ava's. The two shared a playful greeting before the mysterious woman looked at HIM.

Blaze: "You look familiar! Are you an underwear model? Hmm no. If you were, you'd be working for Spectra, but you're a little too OPIE CUNNINGHAM."

He was perplexed and amused by the woman. She was playful and he was a fan of ANYONE that like the ruffle Ava's feathers in the same way that he did.

"Yeah...if Opie Cunningham had this fuckable of a six pack, gorgeous eyes and a KILLER smile. I'm Simon."

She didn't introduce herself.

Blaze: "Did you sell vacuums at some point? You know the big powerful kind that SUCK UP...everything in sight?"

"Nice to know my reputation precedes itself. Please spread the word!"

Blaze: "Or maybe you were a teacher, who specialized in the "Three R's" You know, reading, wRiting and RING-AROUND-THE-BED!"

Simon shot a playful grin and looked at Ava.

"I LOVE her!"

She tosses her auburn hair back and laughs loudly at Simon before looking at Ava and leaning in to whisper


"Fix your hair, sweetie. You look like a cockatoo!"

The elevator chimes and the doors open.

"Like a virgin....touched for the 1200th ti-iiimmmme?!"

Blaze sings as she saunters out, LAUGHING LOUDLY as she leaves Ava and Simon standing there.

Ava: Duly noted.

As Blaze sauntered off, Ava sighed and looked out towards the lobby.

Ava: "Sorry about that. Tact and discretion and aren't in her vocabulary."

Simon laughed.

"Are you kidding? I don't even know her and ALREADY I'm down to have a party in her honor. That was fantastic!"

Ava: "Thanks for the good time."

He watched as Ava began to make her way back into Club Envy, taking and savoring every moment of watching her walk in front of him. And just like that it was done. What would happen next was anybody's guess, but Simon had figured he had tempted fate enough tonight. She seemed to want to play it cool and so would he. He took a second to look at himself in the mirror, before winking.

"You're fucking brilliant, Pratt!"

And with THAT, he began to make his way back into the Club, now extremely excited and RELAXED for the night's events.

 

[Black Widow]

Parthenon - Ambrosia

Blaze: Nigel's finished.

"Finished is not the same as DEAD."

She replied with finality. Sometimes murder was the better option. If Nigel got in with their enemies, and got the right backing, their decision to ruin him but not kill him could come back to haunt them.

Blaze: WELLLL, ya never know! Once you have a taste, you're BOUND to revisit it again...someday!

She laughed then, shaking her head. Blaze was always hinting that playing for the other team was better. She loved to scandalize people with it, but it never really bothered Haleigh.

Blaze: With all that sexual tension he has built up in him....ALYCIA better hope her amazonian body can handle all that energy when it finally comes out!

Haleigh sipped her drink smoothly. Blaze's comment was harder to swallow, but Haleigh was skilled at her poker face and never even blinked at the comment. Which was it, Dominique or Alycia? Or both? She let it pass without reply.

Blaze: But you know, I learned from my sister, the IMPORTANCE of being fashionably late when you're the guest of honor at a party! I'll see you there, Haleigh. I just have to make a pit stop along the way! It's good to see you again.

"Likewise! I'll be there shortly. Don't get into too much fun at your 'pit stop'."

She said, signaling for the check.

Bartender: Leaving so soon? What's the matter, don't know any more hot chicks?

(Smirking)"I know a few more, but they're waiting for me at Envy."

Bartender: They get all the best clientele. Hey, do you think you could give me that redhead's number?

"She's not into dudes. What's the damage?"

Bartender: uh...... 233.57. What about that hot little brunette?

"That was my SISTER. Do you want a tip? She'd chew you up and spit you out. Here's 300, keep the change before you say something else dumb."

She drained the last of her drink, licked her lips and slid smoothly out of the barstool. She headed for the elevators, her right hand in the pocket of her leather jacket. The doors opened as she was inspecting the knuckles of her left hand, which were now smooth white scars.

Sally: Welll WELL! Look who we have HERE! I'm just running into ALL of you around this place today arent I!

Haleigh looked up suddenly, surprised to see Sally spectra standing there. Today was one long string of meeting people she knew but hadn't seen in a while.

"Hello Miss Spectra."

Sally: Ya know...the last time I saw your little boy toy, Zach? I've NEVER met a man who is THAT TICKLISH when it came time to do a fitting for him and take his measurements for a tailored suit he needed. Needless to say, that was QUITE a fun afternoon for yours TRULY! He really SHOULD try and smile a bit more often though!

"Yes, I have a bit of fun with tickling him myself."

She replied warmly. Usually the tickling wars SHE had with him ended up naked. She couldn't imagine Sally had THAT much fun with him.

Sally: I'm just on my way down to Envy to party with my hot like fire sweetheart, Blaze Victory....Say...aren't you going there as well?

"As a matter of fact,--"

Sally: Tut! TUT! My fighting GI JANE! You simply CANNOT go to a party in THAT!

(With an amused smile) "Why the fuck not?"

Sally: Oh don't worry honey, I'll fix you right up! Joan Rivers won't have you in her cross hairs on the Fashion Police as long as Sally SPECTRA is around. Come on. We'll stop by my boutique and get you fixed up! One of the stores image consultants can do your make up and hair for you!

"That's really not necessary, I'm comfortable like this--"

Sally: Now I won't here another word about it! Come along, my dear!

"Ohhhhhkay then."

It was easier if she didn't fight it. Sally could not be deterred when it came to matters of fashion. Haleigh allowed herself to be dragged into the boutique.

Sally: Now you find something.... With your tiny little figure it shouldn't be too hard! You've got long legs too! Go over to that wall over there , your size should be in that area. Find something to wear and we'll get it accessorized!

Well this was interesting. Haleigh usually had her assistant Jennifer do things like this for her. She wasn't really a 'shopping' girl. Nor was she really into fashion. She browsed for a few minutes before settling on a white halter dress that had a knee length hemline, but was split up the front of the left leg almost to the hip. It was form fitting at the top and flowing below the waist and looked like a skimpier, more modern version of the dress that Marilyn Monroe made famous. You really can't go wrong with a classic. She thought as she let the attendants do the rest of the work. They picked it her shoes and accessories, curled her hair and touched up her make up, and right before she was about to pull out her gun and blast a ho for suggesting she get a mani-pedi, Sally declared her nails to be passable and their time to be up. Relieved to be out of there, she escaped for the elevators once more, telling Sally practically over her shoulder to just bill her. She really did look fabulous when she got dressed up, but rarely did because most of the time her clothes got ruined in a fight and a woman in her line of work had to be dressed to kill-- literally to kill.

 

[Persephone]

The club was now packed and even more full of life as Ava re-entered it, surveying the scene around her. She definitely felt AND looked more relaxed after her round of mattress tag with Simon. Not to mention those gentleman jack's did the trick as well. Walking through the club, Ava made her way over to the VIP lounge where she knew everyone would be. Her lips curved into a smile as she saw everyone--Karen, Mike, Nicolas, Cameron, and Alycia. And what was even better? CASS was no where to be found!

"Hello everyone."

Walking over to the small bar that was exclusive to the VIP lounge, she ordered herself a double shot of Evan Williams on the rocks with a splash of ginger ale. Taking a sip of her drink through the small red straws, that's when she saw her across the club.

"Vivica Lennox is here? [scoffing] I should of aimed a little higher"

Ava stated cooly, recounting how Vivica held a gun to her father's head before Ava put a bullet in her NECK. Glancing over at Alycia, the two had come quite a ways....but still, Vivica tried to kill her father and Alycia SUCCEEDED in doing it. It was a little ironic.

Taking a seat next to Alycia, Karen, and Mike, she rolled her eyes.

"Who else did you invite, Cameron? Jodie Arias?"

She deadpanned. But strangely enough, Alycia seemed amused. And that's when it dawned on Ava--Alycia hated Vivica probably about as much as she did, if not MORE. She forgot about their heated past after Cameron had "died". And now Alycia was unofficially seeing Vivica's best friend [Cameron]? Oh, this was certainly turning into an even more interesting night than she anticipated.

Casually glancing across the club, she spotted Simon by the bar with the blonde from earlier talking to him. Lifting a brow, she smirked as she caught his eye. The blonde was either hitting on him, or Simon truly was the womanizing sex crazed asshole the papers painted him out to be, and Ava was just another notch on his bed post. Well, Ava BROKE that post within 20 minutes of being with him, so he could have the debris if he wanted!

Ava's eyes continued to scan the club and finally landed on Cass. Groaning out, Cass AND Vivica? And here she thought the night was going to go smoothly.

"SHE'S here too? [taking a few sips of her drink] I might have to head down to the common folk as soon as i'm finished with my drink."

She jokingly stated, referring to the elite guests that made up the main floor of the club.