A step forward

[Seer]

<< Night time.>>

<< even as some prepare to move into a night of glamor and fun, welcoming the fire and heart back into to their team...the LIGHT of the team seems to grow a little dimmer as another among them prepares to make a huge change, stepping, moving FAR from the center.>>

<< But not to worry, when it comes to members of the six, all paths, no matter how divergent, have a way of coming back together when the time is just right.>>


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


<< Melrose Place>>

<< Alycia is with Delilah in her apartment, preparing to carry her from LA to NYC. >>

<< Blaze Victory is in her sister Morgan's apartment, preparing for the next phase of Cameron and Nicolas "You belong with us" tour and since Cameron doesnt have his own apartment at Melrose Place, he's ALSO at Morgan's, getting ready, while Nicolas and Cass are in their own apartments doing the same.>>

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

<< NYC, The Parthenon>>

<< Ava's professional profile is definitely on it's way back up and her personal life is taking an interesting turn as the young, brash but perversely charming Simon Pratt has managed to earn her notice and attention. She will not have to wait for long to hear from her team mates either, as more than a few of them will be at the Parthenon this evening, as will the larger-than-life Sally Spectra!>>

<< Black Widow will soon return to the Parthenon as well, having managed to reconnect with Harbinger, WITHOUT a bloody battle involved.>>

 

[Prophet]

Melrose Place - Apartment #4

The day had been filled with laughter, flirting and some much needed emotional healing. Cameron and Nicolas had planned this day to show Blaze just how much a part of their family she was and so far, they were doing a pretty kick ass job of it. Once Nicolas returned from Limbo, the group had ANOTHER celebratory toast as everybody made their way to their respective apartments to get ready for the night. A few moments later, a perfectly timed courier bag showed up for Cameron who had his personal assistant pull some clothes and other necessities for the evening and had them delivered.

The effects of the champagne and the heart to heart had allowed Blaze and Cameron to feel much more at home with each other and in fact, they were BOTH getting ready in the master bedroom of Morgan's apartment. Both were in various stages of undress as Blaze was in the master bathroom primping in only a sexy designer bra and matching panties, while a tipsy Cameron King glad only in a black formfitting pair of versace briefs sat at the vanity, plugging his iPhone into the music dock and began to stream a mega mix by one of his favorite Music Producers, Robin Skouteris. The mix was called Get Funky! and it was a mashup of some great songs. It definitely set the mood as the two began to bop back and forth and sing along at certain parts. It was apparent here that the two members of The Six shared a connection that the others didn't; they were both members of the LGBT Community with Cameron being Bisexual and Blaze being a Lesbian, and while there were always stories of gay men and women not getting along, THESE two seemed very well suited for one another as friends. Being apart of such an inclusive group, their sexualities were almost never discussed (mostly because it didn't matter either way to anybody in The Six) but at this moment, both of them felt as if they could really be themselves, which explained all the FUN! :nod:

Cameron dabbed his face with moisturizer and worked it into his face feverishly before examining himself a little closer into the mirror. He laughed to himself for a second, looked over at Blaze and exclaimed.

"Goddammit, Victory! If we were any better looking, it'd be criminal. Both of us hanging out here in our unmentionables listening to dance music? We are right out of a perfume ad! Which reminds me!"

Rustling through his bags he grabbed his bottle of L'Homme by Yves Saint Laurent and began to spray in all of the appropriate places (and even some innappropriate places). It was his favorite cologne and whenever he went out, it was his go to scent. He stood from the vanity and moved over to the bed where both of their clothes had been laid out and he began to eye them up and down for a moment, trying to discern if this was exactly what he wanted to wear. He spoke to Blaze without looking back at her as he began to tweak his choices.

"You know, I love my assistant, but I HATE when anybody chooses clothes for me...I need to start flying with more options!"

On the nightstand he grabbed a cup of coffee he had brewed earlier, taking the time to get back to a more sober level before the festivities of the night took over. Slowly but surely he made sure to get changed to a slim fitting striped button up and tight fitting pair of designer jeans, opting for a more casual feel for the night as he was sure he was going to end up on the dancefloor, and in that situation, the less clothes you had on, the BETTER. Making his way back to the vanity he sat down and began to accessorize adding a stylish necklace and a few bracelets on his right hand. Completing the look, he pulled out a plush blue velvet watch box and got out one of his most expensive and breathaking watches, the Audemars Piguet. Covered in baguette-cut diamonds, 12 carats in the case and 37 carats in the bracelet, the watch had DEFINITELY been a splurge, but to him it was a VERY masculine symbol of power, and he bought it right after The Zenith Groups FIRST big deal, so it was somewhat sentimental. Also, he found that once people saw a watch like that, they gave a little more respect than they might have before. Cameron didn't flaunt his wealth much, but when he did, he put many of his business colleagues to SHAME.

Cameron began to move on to his hair, mindlessly working product through his fingers and into his hair as he spoke to Blaze once more.

"You close to finishing up, B? We've got a lot in store and we have to make sure to see it ALL!! Plus this music is making me want to get my dance on!"

[looking around at Morgan's room which was kind of a DISASTER with both of their things everywhere]

"Man...we should take a picture of this room and show it to your sister when she gets back! In FACT!"

Cameron stood from the vanity chair and went into the bathroom, grabbing his phone as he went. He put an arm around Blaze who was still in her bra as Cameron unbuttoned his shirt and snapped a picture of them, with Morgan's bedroom in the background. The two laughed.

"Now THAT's gonna be a hot picture. In fact we should start texting that to the others...or maybe just Alison...That will throw her precog powers into overdrive! My brother is banging Morgan's sister...the LESBIAN!?! How could I not have seen that!?"

He laughed as he began to put the finishing touches on his look before laying down on the bed on his back. Cameron let out a sigh before lifting his head up.

"So...which outfit did we decide to go with? I must have a fashion show before we leave! I demand it!"

 

[Rampage]

He laughed as he began to put the finishing touches on his look before laying down on the bed on his back. Cameron let out a sigh before lifting his head up.

"So...which outfit did we decide to go with? I must have a fashion show before we leave! I demand it!"

As do I. And shake that ass while you're at it. The music in here is pretty good and you were cute in your undies Red.

Apparently Nicolas had been in a shadowy corner for at least a couple of minutes enjoying the ambiance of the evening's setup. He was dressed comfortably but still in great taste.

He'd had great time overall with Morgan, though she was still in a tough way. But his goal was reassurance and...MISSION ACCOMPLISHED. So now he was on to the next mission; set Blaze up nicely and let her feel the love. Everything he had planned was in order and available and everything now should easily fall into place. So he clapped his hands and whistled as he demanded a show.

Show us watcha got sexy...let's get this party started!!

 

[MorningStar]

Melrose Place, Apartment #1

Delilah stood in her living room, making sure she had everything. Phone, keys, wallet...check.

She dumped them all into her red crocodile Hermes Birkin with the latest Sports Illustrated and Self.

"What am I forgetting?"

She pursed her lips, thinking. She pulled a scarf from the hook by the door and added it to her bag.

She looked over at Alycia.

"I want to thank you again for helping me with this. You've been a real friend."

 

[Firebird]

MP - apt 4

Blaze Victory could drink with the best of them, and often drank most of them under the table!

Her metabolism, enhanced by her powers as a fire elemental, "burned off" the booze more quickly, allowing her to recover faster. Of course binge drinking would push even HER constitution to the limit, for now though, she was still a few steps ahead of Cameron when it came to holding her liquor.

She was not ashamed of her body. Much like her sister, she believed in the old addage "if you've got it, FLAUNT IT!". She was taller, sleeker & more glamorous than her "Mainstream" counterpart. She had curves in all the right places and a figure to fill out whatever she was wearing to eye popping delight.

At the moment, in Morgan's apartment, she sauntered into the master bedroom in nothing more than a matching bra and panties, from the the "Naughty sweetheart" line of Spectra.


"Hmmm....decisions, descisions...."

She thought aloud, even as Cameron moved about from the guest room to Morgan's master bedroom, in nothing more than boxer briefs. Morgan's famous, large, 3-way mirror and custom lighting made getting dressed in her large bedroom more appealing and Cameron knew that.

"Man...we should take a picture of this room and show it to your sister when she gets back! In FACT!"

What WOULD Morgan say, seeing her sister and Cameron traipsing about in their underwear in HER apartment? The idea made her smirk a little even as she focused on the task at hand, chosing from one of several outfits, sent over by Sally Spectra, as she prepared for the first leg of her whirlwind adventure with Cameron and Nicolas.

"Admit it, King, You're just hot and bothered over the sight of me in my undies."

She teased as she continued to look over one of three possible outfits. She'd already tried two of them on, twice. Now she began trying on the second one.


"You want me to help you show Morg how BAD you are? Maybe we can role play 'Miss Victory disciplines the naughty school boy' and record it, just for Morgan! BUT I can't promise that ALISON or someone ELSE might not "ACCIDENTLY" get a copy of it either!"

Laughing softly as she stuck her tongue out at Cameron.


"Ah, this is the one."

She says with certainty about the outfit she now has on, as she slips into matching high heels and does a slow turn in front of the 3-way mirror, taking a moment to admire the view from the back.

From what she'd heard of "After-Dark" from her sister and the others, showing some SKIN was the way to get IN and again, Blaze was not ashamed of her body by any means!

Her auburn hair was perfectly coiffed and her make up, high heels and accessories coordinated with her daring red and black outfit.

"Yeah, I'm ready."

Her eyes sparkle with allure and intrigue as she looks over Cameron, who also included the color black in his ensemble.

"Not bad, pretty boy!"

"Just needs a little touch..."

Unbuttoning a few more buttons on his shirt to reveal more of his chest

Slowly walking by him before GRABBING his junk.

"And the pants fit JUST right! Maybe I SHOULD warm you up for Alycia!"

Laughing softly as she licked her pouty, glossed lips.

Nicolas suddenly shows up, looking for a "show" indeed.

Blaze eyes him in disbelief.

"Nicolas, where are you going? A funeral? CHURCH?"

Walking over to him and unbuttoning his blazer.

"Take this off!"

She removes it and then TEARS away the shirt.

"We're going to AFTER-DARK, not the piano bar! You should know better, since you've been there before and I havent!"


"Sally knows!"

Taking a moment to do a model turn in front of Nicolas.

"She sent over these wicked sexy outfits that were PERFECT for that club. She's coming there tonight too. What will she say if she sees her "Chocolate Beefcake" dressed like he's going to the convent!?"

Blaze and Cameron both have a laugh, but it's all in fun.

"This is supposed to be FUN in the night, Nicolas."

When it came to fashion, Blaze Victory was as particular as Morgan, and would not hesitate to let someone know. Fashion was not just a look, it was a calling card and more importantly, it could be a WEAPON!

 

[Artemis]

From MP to the back lot

Delilah stood in her living room, making sure she had everything. Phone, keys, wallet...check.

She dumped them all into her red crocodile Hermes Birkin with the latest Sports Illustrated and Self.

"What am I forgetting?"

She pursed her lips, thinking. She pulled a scarf from the hook by the door and added it to her bag.

:: Alycia sat calmly. She didn't want Delilah to feel rushed. She'd taken care of making sure Delilah's apartment would be okay. Providing written, signed notice of an "extended vacation" & designating Haleigh with custodial control over the apartment. It wasn't that Alycia didn't trust Morgan. Far from that. She knew Morgan wouldn't be petty enough to suddenly appear and exercise some obscure clause in any rental contract, even where Delilah was concerned. It was just second nature for Alycia to make sure ever I was dotted, every T crossed. ::

She looked over at Alycia.

"I want to thank you again for helping me with this. You've been a real friend."

You're more than welcome, Delilah.

::Alycia said with affirmation::

But just remember what I said...treat this as time away, with the knowledge that when the time is RIGHT, you'll come back.

:: Standing up::

There's no way for you to even guess how long that'll be. It'll take as long as it takes.

I'm speaking from personal experience on that.

:: Smiling with reassurance::

BUT, I always knew, one day, I'd be with you all again...when the time was right. Apparently the Blue Moon was that time.

:: As Delilah did a last minute check over everything...::

Once you're settled in NYC...you make sure to LOOSEN UP and UNCORK, okay?

:: Alycia wrapped her arm around Delilah, giving her a sideway hug as they prepared to exit apartment 1. Delilah locked up behind her.::

:: Alycia had already texted Cameron that she would not be able to join them with Blaze, but that she would see him later.::

::In the courtyard, only lights from apartment 7 and apartment 4 were on. Otherwise, it was another dark and quiet evening at Melrose Place. ::

:: Together, Alycia and Delilah walked out of the courtyard and on to Melrose Avenue. To the left was large driveway with several parking garages for the few residents of MP that had vehicles and just beyond that was an empty lot that went around to the BACK of the building. Alycia's state of the art vehicle, DOME was back here.::

This is what you'll be riding in!

::Alycia gestures to the large, curious loking craft composed of alien morphing crystal::

The first time I arrived here with this, you were unconscious. I was going to take you and Bishop back to Minerva's Aerie in it, but since Spellbinder was still here, she was able to teleport us all.

:: Alycia noticed Delilah's apprehension...::

There's nothing to worry about, I promise. We'll get there faster than any commercial or private jet, we wont be detectible by any technology and it'll be a smooth, quiet, comfortable ride, with a view out of this world!

Are you ready to board?

 

[Ruby]

Melrose Place - Apt. 4 / Back Lot

:: Cassandra was in fine form tonight. She was running a bit behind her schedule, but she’d just blame it on the two lushes [Cameron and Blaze] currently occupying Morgan’s apartment at the moment. Despite saying no to the alcohol, Cass found herself with a flute of champagne anyway and she felt compelled to drink it; after all, rejecting it would have been rude. ::

:: She gazed at herself in the floor-length mirror in her bedroom with critique. The outfit wasn’t something she’d choose on her own but Bryan rather chose it for her. It’s time for you to show the world who CASSANDRA JOHNSON really is now, he told her as he handed her the garment bag one evening at work. No more hiding. Baby’s ready to play! She chuckled softly as she reviewed her choice, or rather, HIS choice. Being gay, he had impeccable taste. The outfit hung unusued in hehr closet for MONTHS. Tonight seemed like a good night to pull it out and wear. ::

Bryan WAS right…

:: She turned this way and that way to see it from every angle. ::

It DOES accentuate my backside!

:: He had told her it would put her ‘deliciously perfect ass’ – his words – on full display. She smiled and grabbed her purse and walked into her living room carrying her black Jimmy Choo heels. She was wearing ballet flats for the car ride. She happened to look out her window and noticed that Delilah’s apartment had gone dark. Alycia had mentioned that Delilah was leaving for New York to stay. Cass had hoped to wish her well but it looked as if she had already left. ::

*regretfully*: Now it looks as if I’ll have to make a special trip to New York now.

:: She turned out the lights and opened the door. She locked the door behind her and went on her way to where she parked Black Beauty. It was a quiet night at Melrose Place and sounds happened to carry. She could hear voices that sounded as though they were coming from the empty lot beyond the complex’s parking garage. Curious as to whom they belonged to, and wanting to make sure nothing was out of ordinary, Cass followed the voices through the empty lot and back around the building. ::

*questioningly*: “Hello? Is anybody here? This is private property; you aren’t really allowed to be back…oh! Delilah! Alycia!”

 

[Rampage]

"Take this off!"

She removes it and then TEARS away the shirt.

"We're going to AFTER-DARK, not the piano bar! You should know better, since you've been there before and I havent!"


"Sally knows!"

Taking a moment to do a model turn in front of Nicolas.

"She sent over these wicked sexy outfits that were PERFECT for that club. She's coming there tonight too. What will she say if she sees her "Chocolate Beefcake" dressed like he's going to the convent!?"

Blaze and Cameron both have a laugh, but it's all in fun.

"This is supposed to be FUN in the night, Nicolas."

Nicolas laughed at the tatters of his clothes that USED to be on him. wolf whistling as Blaze made her turn, he popped her hard as she swung her bottom past him. Damn it! This night was going to be fun and, she was right. He needed to loosen up.

Fair enough Red. Gimme a second.

The rest of his clothes save for his boxer briefs disappeared, then he reset his outfit to something that seemed more like the nights festivities. If Blaze wanted him with no shirt...well that is what she would have. Raising a eyebrow as he took a pose, he asked the important question.

Better?

 

[Black Widow]

the Parthenon --

Haleigh sat at the bar inside Ambrosia, the Parthenon's five star restaurant. It was nice..... black marble bartop, stainless steel, high quality glassware. A decent Rob Roy, if she asked for a premium scotch. Of course, it seems like it would be hard to fuck up a drink with only two ingredients. She was on her third, waiting for her lieutenant to show up.

The bartender brought her a fourth, and pointed down at a man sitting alone, who smiled at her. A tall dark and handsome man..... who was now blocked by the arrival of her lieutenant. well, at least I won't have to bother turning down another one. Her lieutenant was apologizing profusely, but she gave him a disarming smile and gently touched his arm before sliding that fourth drink over to him.

"Don't worry about it, Logan. I've only been here fifteen minutes, and I cheated."

She reached into her jacket and pulled out the two cylindrical cases that housed the blood samples.

"Get these to Bruce ASAP. He's expecting them and I'm anxious to hear back from him. And for fuck's sake, don't send more than one agent in to deliver these, or the good doctor will go Mr. Hyde on us. I saw a report on agent deployment in Sierra Leone..... what's the situation?"

Logan: The remnants of the R.U.F. may be reuniting. The Ministry of Defense released arrest warrants for all known associates of the leadership regime. There's a lot of dead bodies stacking up..... they are killing mining crews, taking the ice and leaving calling cards.

"I'm so tired of hearing about child soldiers and blood diamonds. I thought we solved this problem years ago. Fabricating evidence to get those bastards convicted was one of the first missions I established for Clandestine."

Logan: Yes..... Well the child soldiers aren't children anymore. Apparently they miss the power they used to have and all they know is how to use cruelty to get it.

"Spare me the sob stories. I was never a bleeding heart. Everyone makes their own choices--"

Logan: Those kids chose to live--

"And now they are choosing to kill. Are we really about to have a philosophical debate? And some how, some way you're going to tie this back to Nature vs. Nurture. Yeah, we've talked about it before. I wish I had the time to get into it again, but unfortunately I've gotta go. Send the Republic a care package. A few hundred AKs, a couple of crates of surplus flashbangs, some RPGs. Let them know they have our support."

Logan: Send them our love. Are you sure you aren't a bleeding heart?

"A power struggle in that region would be bad for the global economy. It's in the world's best interest to crush the rebellion. I'm operating on my own incentives, it doesn't mean I have a heart. Walk me upstairs, I don't have the patience to deal with would-be suitors and that dude who bought your drink is looking to see if I'm leaving without you."

Logan: Are we going up to your room? How scandalous! Should I Grope you a little? It'll be like old times. Or will it? Technically that was a different body.... I haven't seen this one.

(Laughing) "Alright, alright, quit pawing at me, you're making me horny. And stop talking about my different bodies, it's weird. (Getting into the elevator) I am going up to my sister's room. YOU are going back to work."

 

[Persephone]

Sitting on her new sleek leather sofa, Ava's feet were propped up on the coffee table and her Macbook rested snug on her lap. She had received a call from a rather annoyed old friend asking why Ava hadn't told her she was engaged. Apparently her encounter with Simon Pratt at brunch really did cause a huge stir because their story was plastered all over the internet. Scrolling through the different gossip sites, TMZ had an "inside source" stating that they were planning a romantic get away to Prague once the news about their engagement blew over. Radar Online had a story stating that Ava was PREGNANT with Simon's child and the engagement was just a ploy to take the attention away from her growing baby bump...multiple candid pictures of Ava with little red arrows pointing at her stomach emphasized THAT article. Perez Hilton's blog suggested that Ava and Simon were engaged but were not going to get married until marriage was legal for everyone, which caused a giant stir and brownie points for both parties in the gay community. It was all absolutely ridiculous. Closing her laptop rather roughly, Ava tossed it next to her.

"I'm going to kill him."

Standing up, she looked down at her toned stomach and pressed her hand against it while sucking it in. She wasn't fat by any means, but damn...having multiple articles suggest she had a baby bump even put a doubt in her mind.

"I'm going to KILL him."

Usually Ava didn't let the paparazzi or media effect her. In fact, she was known for not giving a damn what they printed or said about her. She never commented. Never tried to correct false statements. It just didn't phase her. But this? This was infuriating because SIMON caused it. Not only that, but having reports saying Ava was pregnant after everything that was going on with Delilah? Talk about salt in the fucking wound. It was just a giant mess.

Feeling her pocket vibrating, Ava pulled her phone out and saw it was Joanne, her publicist.

"Great....."

Groaning out, Ava slid her thumb to answer it. Before she could even put it up to her ear, Joanne's voice could be heard immediately questioning what the hell happened today.

"I know...I know. [pause] NO, I don't want you to make a statement on my behalf. This will just blow over like everything else....[pause] Joanne! If I make a statement about THIS, people are going to know that something is up. I NEVER make statements about anything, and i'm not about to start now. Just....try to do damage control the best you can without making it look obvious. And i'll try not to go to JAIL tonight for HOMICIDE. [pause] I'm kidding, Joanne...i'll talk to you later."

Hanging up, Ava tossed her phone onto the couch next to her laptop before making her way into her bedroom. She didn't have time for this ridiculousness anymore, in a few hours she would be meeting up with everyone down at The Parthenon's club to help celebrate with Blaze. And she was going to wear the tightest damn dress she could find to prove she didn't have a baby bump. Shuffling through the mass of clothing, finally, she came across THE dress.

Smirking.

"Perfect. Lets see them point little red arrows at me now. Bastards."

Laying the dress on her bed, Ava headed into her bathroom and proceeded to take a LONG hot shower.

 

[MorningStar]

Melrose Place

You're more than welcome, Delilah. But just remember what I said...treat this as time away, with the knowledge that when the time is RIGHT, you'll come back.

Delilah shook her head.

"I'll always be there if they need me, but knowing that you're here eases my mind about leaving - I know things are in good hands."

Once you're settled in NYC...you make sure to LOOSEN UP and UNCORK, okay?

Delilah laughed.

"Oh, I firmly intend to. It's my town, after all."

Delilah locked the door and walked with Alycia through Melrose Place and around to the lot behind the parking garage. As they approached, Delilah could see Alycia's craft, which she had called Dome, shimmering in a vaguely transparent, crystalline way.

This is what you'll be riding in! There's nothing to worry about, I promise.

Delilah looked askance at the contraption.

"You know, Alycia, most people just use a Cessna when they want to get someplace quickly..."

We'll get there faster than any commercial or private jet, we wont be detectible by any technology and it'll be a smooth, quiet, comfortable ride, with a view out of this world!

"Did you ever consider a career as a car salesman? Marketing maybe?"

Delilah winked.

Are you ready to board?

She took a deep breath. She wasn't sure about the plane, but if it had gotten Alycia all the way here from Themyscira, how bad could it be? And the most important thing was, it would take here away from HERE.

"As ready as I'll ever be - you're sure this thing is safe?"

But as she turned to board, Delilah heard her name from behind her. It was that new girl, Cass.

[to Alycia]

"Oh what now?"

She had already spoken to the girl after their return from Aerie. What more did they have to talk about?

 

[Artemis]

Melrose Place- outside

Delilah looked askance at the contraption.

"You know, Alycia, most people just use a Cessna when they want to get someplace quickly..."

Where's the fun or uniqueness in THAT?

:: Alycia said with a knowing tone as she laughed a bit::

"Did you ever consider a career as a car salesman? Marketing maybe?"

Delilah winked.

:: Alycia scoffed w/an astonished bit of laughter as nudged Delilah.::

Please. The only thing more reviled tha a lawyer is a car salesman. At least with the practice of LAW there's a CHANCE [for those with an interest in integrity] to be honest & respectable. A car salesman? Pssssh! surely you jest.

Now stop stalling and get in!

:: She said with a smile, urging Delilah forward::

She took a deep breath. She wasn't sure about the plane, but if it had gotten Alycia all the way here from Themyscira, how bad could it be? And the most important thing was, it would take here away from HERE.

"As ready as I'll ever be - you're sure this thing is safe?"

:: Alycia wouldn't say this to Delilah NOW, of course, but her reactions to Dome immediately reminded her of BISHOP'S reactions the night of the Blue Moon. It was odd and ironic, considering those two were now on opposite ends of a deep chasm with no possible bridge in sight::

I'm here aren't I? From Themyscira to "man's world"...I can even travel into SPACE with it! That's a trip Nicolas is clammoring for.

:: As Delilah was about to walk up the boarding steps, they both turned as a voice called out.::

It was that new girl, Cass.

[to Alycia]

"Oh what now?"

She had already spoken to the girl after their return from Aerie. What more did they have to talk about?

Cass!

You're looking very hot tonight.

:: Taking note of the psionic's dark and sultry look for the evening. Alycia knew where Cass was going, along with Cameron, Nicolas and Blaze.::


:: Alycia caught Delilah's look and annoyed tone. Delilah had wanted to depart Melrose Place as quietly as she could::

It's okay, there's no harm in a team mate seeing you off.

:: She said to Delilah, placing a reassuring arm around Delilah and looking to Cass. Alycia knew Cass was doing her best to be a stronger, more connected presence to the Six, that included Delilah.::

It was nice of you to come see Delilah off.

We don't want to be long though, Delilah wants to leave QUIETLY.

:: She winked at Cass, sure that the girl would understand that time was of the essence.::

 

[Longshot]

NYC - Out and About...

After an intriguing and exciting brunch with Ava Cassadine at The Parthenon, Simon had spent the afternoon on the streets of Manhattan shopping and visiting boutiques owned by many of his trust fund friends, who had squandered much of their parents money in order to keep their less than viable businesses afloat. Simon may have come from one of the most infamous and wealthy families in the country, but his parents were incredible hard asses when it came to education and working for what you had. His father Alistair was a titan in the manufacturing industry with Pratt Industries, which manufactured everything from prosthetics and various medical equipment to sometimes swooping up military contracts much to the dismay of his father's most formidable business opponent - Stavros Cassadine. His mother had been a Hampton's wasp her entire life and there was not a board or council in this town that Evelyn Pratt was not a part of. She may have used her celebrity for good but to Simon she was only doing it for the praise that she got, not from a genuine concern she had to help others. Still, it was hard to measure the success of people who already COME from money. Yes, Simon had a sizeable trust fund, but he didn't get access to it until getting his degree from Columbia and moving to the city to take a position with Cameron King's FIRST business endeavour...the now defunct King Enterprises. He worked in the legendary "Boiler Rooms" as a floor broker and it was there that Simon first honed his ability to absolute talk his way into or out of anything.

As Simon rounded the corner with several shopping bags in hand, his thoughts seemed to connect with the Universe around him as he passed the building where King Enterprises used to reside in the city...Now, it had been swooped up by some Financial Services Company...but the energy from King Enterprises was still there. He remembered the day that Vivica Lennox who had taken the company over for Cameron after his mysterious leave of absence (which was a rumored psychotic break in the tabloids) and told them that King Enterprises was to be liquidated.

::FLASH!::

New York City - Two Years Ago...

King Enterprises Building - Wallstreet

A very wary and sollen looking Vivica Lennox stands before a podium in a large conference room filled with various high level employees of King Enterprises, among them a younger Simon Pratt can be seen in the third row.

"As I hope you are aware...I have worked tirelessly to keep this organization afloat during the absence and resignation of Cameron King. This business was his heart and soul, the thing that kept him going, and I have been incredibly honored to have taken the helm..."

Vivica looked down, almost on the verge of tears. What many did NOT know at the time was that Cameron King had been KILLED...by Malice, and Vivica was doing her best to keep such disastrous news hidden from the public...in fact ALL of the members of The Six and their allies were doing the same.

"Unfortunately, we've reached an impass. I have prayed long and hard about this decision, and i've come to realize that my path might differ from the vision of King Enterprises in the future. I've looked at our options...but honestly..without Cameron King, there can be NO King Enterprises..I've accepted an opportunity in Europe and..."

Vivica Lennox bit her quivering lip as she spoke.

"Effective on Monday Morning...King Enterprises will close it's doors..."

Simon remembered how sad Vice President Lennox looked that day, how sad EVERYBODY was. Simon was just starting to feel like he had found a truly great place to work on his career and just like that it was pulled right out from under him, but thankfully he didn't find himself in the position that others did. He had more than enough money to fall back on and although Vivica did her best to find positions for as many employees as she could, countless people were left jobless, and the public backlash she received for being perceived as unable to run such a company without him was brutal. Still, the time he spent at King Enterprises was truly cherished and it sent a shockwave down his spine as memories from those exciting days of a new career came back to him all at once. Flashing a smile at the building, he pulled his jacket a little closer to himself as he walked through the streets headed for the Upper East Side, where his Penthouse resided.

As he rounded the corner to his building he was SWARMED with flashing bulbs, loud voices and plenty of questions. A cheshire cat like smile curled up in his lips.

"Looks like Ava and I's little brunch is already making it's way way through the media machine! Well...showtime I guess!"

The bulbs flashed as a number of voices shouted questions at him.

Reporter 1: "Simon! Tell us! Are you and Ava Cassadine really engaged?!"

[smiling]

"Ava Cassadine and I are becoming very close...that's all i'll say..."

Reporter 2: "Come on! Tell us! Please! Have you done the impossible? Have you melted the Ice Queen's heart?

"Oh please, guys...she's not THAT bad...well..maybe she is...I will say though...not EVERYTHING on her is ice cold..."

Reporter 3: "When is the wedding? What does your father think of you marrying a Cassadine? Is is true that Ava uses face cream made from Blood Diamonds? Simon! Simon!"

He couldn't help but laugh...some of the things that popped up as stories were just absolutely ridiculous, but he had to admit...the stories people came up with about Ava Cassadine were downright hilarious..but that was really her fault. She refused to play the fame game. She let the media say whatever they wanted and she never commented on things...Simon however, had learned a long time ago, that you were able to get away with a LOT more trouble by being friendly with these kind of people. Give the dogs their biscuits and they remain happy and for the most part out of your hair. As Simon made his way to the double doors of his building, he turned around and motioned his hands for the swarm of people around him to calm down for a moment.

"Alright guys...That's enough for now...I will say that Ava Cassadine is an intriguing and chronically classy woman who's company I enjoy...Whatever you want to make of that...well...is up to you. Now if you'll excuse me...I've got to get ready for a hot date!"

Simon flashed a smile as he entered his building, pressed the P1 button for his penthouse and before long was back at his ultra chic home. He placed his keys and his phone into the bowl, completely ignoring the 300 some missed calls he had due to the earlier events of the day, before grabbing a remote and pressing a button as classical music began to play, specifically Ponchielli's "Dance Of The Hours". Heading to his wine cellar he picked out a classic and rich red wine as he uncorked the bottle and promptly poured himself a glass. Picking up his glass he walked over to one of the many floor to ceiling windows in his apartment that overlooked Central Park and took in the view for a few moments. People expected a lot from Simon Pratt and he always had to be "on" in one way or another. Times like this, he thoroughly enjoyed. Good music, good wine and a great view. The only thing that would make it better would be finding a woman that didn't make him want to gouge his own eyes out with one of his swords and that actually had an ear for taste and the finer things in life.

"What the hell am I SAYING?"

He said outloud. Simon had NEVER pictured him really dating anybody in the long term...he had never been totally sold on monagamy, believing that there were so many options in the world that to look at ONE thing and choose ONLY that for the rest of your life was somewhat...well, childish and a decision usually made out of fear of being alone..Ava was getting to him it seemed in a way he wasn't entirely comfortable with. Simon glanced down at his watch, he still had some time to get ready. Cameron had invited him to The Parthenon tonight for drinks and to get to know some of Cameron's friends. Simon had never really interacted with...mutants before, at least not that he was aware...so for Cameron to somewhat blow the lid off of his comfortable existence by outing himself as a mutant and then inviting him to meet MORE..well, that made a guy a little nervous...not that ANYBODY would ever be able to tell by looking at him.

The music filled his penthouse as he made his way to the master bedroom, peeled off his clothes and headed into his large and modern master bathroom and turned on the shower. Stepping in he let the water rush over his face and began to prepare for what he hoped would be a fun night.

 

[Ruby]

Melrose Place - Back Lot

:: Cass slowed down and walked cautiously towards Alycia’s method of travel. It was pretty damn impressive. She was too far away to hear what Delilah said to the Amazon, but her look definitely said she wasn’t at all thrilled to see her. But ALYCIA looked delighted to see her, probably because Cass was the one to seek out Delilah all on her own. She walked to the foot of the boarding stairs. ::

Cass!

You're looking very hot tonight.

:: Taking note of the psionic's dark and sultry look for the evening. Alycia knew where Cass was going, along with Cameron, Nicolas and Blaze.::


:: Alycia caught Delilah's look and annoyed tone. Delilah had wanted to depart Melrose Place as quietly as she could::

It's okay, there's no harm in a team mate seeing you off.

:: She said to Delilah, placing a reassuring arm around Delilah and looking to Cass. Alycia knew Cass was doing her best to be a stronger, more connected presence to the Six, that included Delilah.::

It was nice of you to come see Delilah off.

We don't want to be long though, Delilah wants to leave QUIETLY.

:: She winked at Cass, sure that the girl would understand that time was of the essence.::

“Thank you, Alycia. That’s really kind of you to say.”

:: She could tell Delilah wanted to get going, and so she was hoping that the beautiful Amazon would forgive her for her abruptness. But she also didn’t want to be rude either. She turned to Delilah and made eye contact. There was NO sign of the awkwardness that would have preceded Cass’ words and actions, a sure sign that Cass was slowly coming into her place within the Six. She was a bit wary of what Delilah’s actions would be, but she was hoping the pretty blonde would still hear her out. What she wanted to say had been weighing on her ever since the Blue Moon. ::

“It’s true; I wanted to see you off, but I also have something important to say that could only be said face to face.”

:: She took a deep breath. ::

Here goes nothing.

“The Blue Moon. I just wanted to apologize for not standing up for you when it really counted. You were RIGHT. About EVERYTHING. Instead I kept quiet. I failed you as a team mate and as a potential friend.” *ruefully*: “Hell, I failed EVERYBODY as a team mate back then. When you went down to the ground after learning about what Alison did, you looked EXACTLY like my own mama did when *I* was snatched from her arms. I will never forget BOTH of those times. EVER. Still I did nothing. I FAILED you, and please don’t give me the bullshit platitude of telling me that it’s okay because we both know it wasn’t and it isn’t."

:: Cass did not expect to start crying, but she did. ::

“I don’t blame you for wanting to leave. I probably would too, if I were in your shoes. But I just wanted to apologize for failing you that horrible night. It has been weighing on me for a long time. I’m not sure if you forgive me, and I certainly won’t blame you if you don’t, but I needed to apologize just the same.”

:: Cass sniffled a bit. ::

“I really do hope you find whatever it is you’re looking for in New York.” *whispers*: “You deserve all the happiness in the world, Delilah. Good luck.”

:: She took a few small steps backwards. ::

 

[Seer]

The Parthenon- Ambrosia

<< the smallest change in a person's immediate environment was all it took to capture his or her attention and divert them off course.>>

<< this is just what happened to Haleigh, as she caught sight of a large, beautifully framed, perfectly captured picture of: CAMERON KING, MORGAN VICTORIA, SALLY SPECTRA, NICOLAS KING, DOMINIQUE DEVERAUX and BLAZE VICTORY, standing together on stage during the climax of the glamorous media event in the Crystal Room at the Parthenon 2 months ago.>>

<< As the old saying goes, a picture is worth 1000 words, and this one captured a moment that was worth even MORE than that!>>

<< FLASH!>>

<< The evening, THIS part of it at least, has been pulled off with tremendous success, as the now thunderous applause, cheers, whistling and other sustained postive audience feedback indicates.>>

<< At Cameron's call, Dominique emerges, as does Blaze, who was appreciative to Cameron for giving her a special mention, even though in her mind it wasnt necessary. She gladly joined her sister and the others on stage along with Dominique and now all 6 of them, representing 3 major companies across multiple industries, stand before the wowed and delighted crowd showing them what can be accomplished with time, GROWTH and change!>>

<< The DJ plays the instrumental version of Ray of Light as the audience continues to stand and cheer.>>

<< with Sally in the center, Cameron on her left with Dominique on his left; Morgan immediately to Sally's right, with Nicolas on Morgan's right and Blaze on HIS right, the group BOW together once, twice and each then give their own personal sign off "gesture" to the audience as they leave together, followed by the Spectra models. the media screen and floating monitors flash images of of all them and the motifs of zenith, the parthenon and spectra. >>

<< they walk, hand in hand and exit stage left....and once out of sight of the audience and the theatre, the crew and employees from all three companies shout and cheer with glee. Sally and Morgan hug and thank their models for a job well done, then they hug each other. Hugs all around among them, with Dominique even allowing and GIVING hugs to Sally, Nicolas and Cameron, while offering a more reserved hand shake and positive affirmation to Blaze and Morgan (as was expected from her, given their standing w/ each other)>>

<< A night to remember, a moment in time, history made, all of these things and so much more, even as the Blue Moon was threatening to DAWN and change everything for the Six. Haleigh had not been there for ANY of this.>>

<< She looked almost transfixed as she didn't hear Logan asking her if she was still getting into the elevator. Finally she snapped out of her intense gaze at the picture and quietly urged him to go on without her and that she'd connect with him later on. He knew her well enough, IN SPITE of her change in physical appearnce, to know that there were moments where she needed TIME to her self. This was one of them.>>

<< And so, standing there in outer reaches of Ambrosia, she continues to survey the large, beautiful photo. For HER, this was the most recent images of Morgan, Nicolas, Cameron and Blaze (Firebird) she'd seen...since either the Viper and/or Black/Bianca capers. Sally Spectra? Well it was just as Delilah said...NOBODY could NOT like her. She was brash, bold and yet charming and warm...and she was an out spoken, DEEP POCKETED, WELL CONNECTED ALLY of the Six. They needed those, and Haleigh and Zach BOTH had benefited from Sally's amazing fashion designs more than once in times not too long ago.>>

<< As Haleigh stood there, the sound system noticebly began to play a song by none other than Dominique Deveraux, one of her fan favorites, "The end of a lover affair." It was a thoughtful, sultry cover...respecting Billie Holiday's essence and nodding to Chaka Khan's jazzy rendition.>>

<< Haleigh's eyes fixed on Dominique in the picture. There SHE was. The Black Queen. ISIS, an INTREGAL part of this moment that was captured and, DESPITE her connection to the Hellfire Club, it's Inner Circle and the SISTERHOOD, she seemed to have more connections to the Six now, even beyond the critical bloodline to Nicolas. What was it about her? Ava, Alycia and Alison had all mentioned she was present during the events of the Blue Moon as well. >>

<< This picture underscored to Haleigh that she'd missed ALOT during her sabbatical. She had lots to catch up on, but as another old saying goes...better late than never.>>

<< Even as the hybrid allowed her mind to wander, the bartender who had served her just a little while ago, was now passing her, on a break.>>

Bartender: Great picture, isn't it? The Parthenon has been THRIVING on a whole new level since that night. There was alot of buzz about Morgan Victoria reappearing in New York after...well...after her own fashion empire fell, but it was clear that she's in top form. She and Cameron King BOTH.

Bartender: And how about that Dominique Deveraux! You should've been here last night. Dominique had a show and it was PACKED as usual. She really IS the STAR of the Parthenon. Cameron King's gotta be on cloud nine....

<< Haleigh looked at the bartender, wondering what that was supposed to mean>>

Bartender: Well...who WOULDN'T be, romancing beautiful woman like THAT? Of course it's only a rumour, but you know how those celebrities are.

Bartender: Enjoy the night, Miss.

<< and with that, the bartender heads off, to enjoy a break, leaving Haleigh alone to her thoughts>>


<< She wouldn't be alone for long.>>

 

[Isis]

The Parthenon- Ambrosia

:: the slow steps of high heels could be heard on the marble floor, coming toward Haleigh::

It's true what they say...

:: Her icy, cold voice is of a lower vocal register than Morgan's::

A picture DOES last a lot longer.

:: Haleigh turns to see Dominique Deveraux standing there, looking sleek and elegant.::

:: The TRUCE between the Six and Sisterhood was still active but even beyond that...there was an unspoken sense that Haleigh no longer had anything to fear from Dominique as Isis, In this "post-SET" dynamic she now had with the Six, she was not a "friend"...but could no longer be seen as an "ENEMY" either. It was something UNIQUE to her and the same could NOT be said for her Sisterhood counterparts Malice (White Queen) and Enchantrah (Red Queen).::

And speaking of unexpected sights...you, here, in the Parthenon?

:: The Black Queen says with surprisingly genuine curiosity.::

Clearly Malice's restoration of you was quite thorough. One would never know that you had been degenerated by Viper into a zombie...

:: The two had not seen each other since the Viper caper. Isis played a role in preserving the lives of more than one member of the Six AND helping to ensure Haleigh's safety while Malice RESTORED Haleigh from Viper's terrifying touch. Before Isis and Malice took their leave of the Six, MorningStar reached out to Isis, THANKING HER [but noticeably refusing to address Malice] for helping them.::

I can only assume that you are aware of the recent events regarding the Blue Moon and the....

:: She paused::

Unfortunate aftermath for your team mate, MorningStar.

:: She said this with a tone of genuine SYMPATHY for Delilah, which caught Haleigh off guard. It was easy to ASSUME Dominique didn't care about anyone, she BARELY seemed to tolerate Nicolas, the last time Haleigh had seen her, but MANY things had changed since then, as Haleigh was once again reminded by this unexpected encounter.::

 

[Black Widow]

the Parthenon -- ground floor

Logan: Hey--

He reaches in and stops the elevator from closing.

Logan: I almost forgot to ask about your stance on what's happening in the Congo.

"The attacks in Kinshasa? Do not engage, maintain surveillance only. Zach reports from the U.N. that the DemRep government has the situation in hand. No interference is needed at this time."

Logan: ah, Lt. Armani. You still banging him? (After her annoyed yes response) I heard you broke off the engagement.... and also that he's commuting daily from L.A... Hadn't you been personally handling the operation of the Los Angeles cell before you liased with SHIELD?

"Fuck, are you taking a personal interest in my affairs or what? You're about four years PAST the time when it would be appropriate to ask these questions."

Logan: sorry, Jesus. I was just curious. Just because we stopped fucking doesn't mean I stopped giving a fuck. We can't all just turn it off like you.

Was he going to cry about it? She stopped listening to his Sensitive Guy Bullshit. She didn't have the patience for that either. She had spotted a picture of a group..... Cameron, Morgan, Isis, Blaze, Nicolas and Sally. She absently told Logan that she was sorry for snapping on him and that she was tired and unsociable. She gently redirected him to focus on work and that she would call him again in a couple of days.

She focused on the visual evidence of more she had missed. At least these looked like GOOD times. It was interesting to see Isis in the photo. Haleigh hadn't seen or heard much about her since the Viper ordeal. And now the woman was in pictures with her team..... more surprises.

Bartender: Great picture, isn't it? The Parthenon has been THRIVING on a whole new level since that night. There was alot of buzz about Morgan Victoria reappearing in New York after...well...after her own fashion empire fell, but it was clear that she's in top form. She and Cameron King BOTH. And how about that Dominique Deveraux! You should've been here last night. Dominique had a show and it was PACKED as usual. She really IS the STAR of the Parthenon. Cameron King's gotta be on cloud nine....

"What's that supposed to mean?"

Bartender: Well...who WOULDN'T be, romancing beautiful woman like THAT? Of course it's only a rumour, but you know how those celebrities are. Enjoy the night, Miss.

And he left her there in the lobby, starting back into Ambrose, looking like she was almost dumbfounded. Cameron and Isis?!?

Isis: it's true what they say.... a picture DOES last a lot longer.

"Isis! Good evening. (After Isis's comment about Malice restoring her) Yes.... She was very thorough indeed. I daresay Diana might know me better than I know myself at this point."

But that wasn't without splash damage. Haleigh knew more about Malice as well... her tragic beginnings..... She hadn't shared that information with anyone, out of respect for her.... frenemy? Acquaintance? What DO you call a former antagonist with whom you have established an armistice?

Isis: I can only assume that you are aware of the recent events regarding the Blue Moon and the...Unfortunate aftermath for your team mate, MorningStar.

"Yes, that's actually part of the reason I'm here tonight. That and my sister is staying in one of the penthouses."

It was interesting to see that Isis almost seemed.... concerned about the blue moon fallout. Haleigh had always thought Isis well detached. But then the whole birth-death disaster probably brought up some awful memories for her.

"That reminds me.... I owe you a great deal of gratitude for the assistance you rendered my team during the Blue Moon. It was far more than required by the truce, so thank you. I wish I could have been there myself..... but I was otherwise engaged."

 

[Recall]

NYC - Chelsea - Vivica's Art Studio

"I don't know, Andre...I just feel like it's missing something..."

Vivica cocked an eyebrow from behind her vintage teal cat eyed glasses as she surveyed a piece from her upcoming first exposition as an artist, her face smeared every now and then with different hues of paint. Vivica had been working tirelessly to get her work ready for her professional debut. Her gallery, Belle Epoque had been doing very well and so far, Vivica's deeply analytical eye and passion for her new field had served her well, bringing some new names to the art world and establishing herself as a power player among the elite in the art world, a highly competitive and highly lucrative field.

Her assistant Andre, an incredibly sassy African-American man in his 20's with an incredible and bold fashion sense stood behind her, clicking HIS high heel against the floor as he looked at his watch.

Andre: "Vi--baby girl. You know I love you right? You're my girl, you're my sister, my boo thang?!"

Vivica rolled her eyes as she took of her glasses, pinning them to the front of her incredibly chic designer overalls from Marc Jacobs. Something about being in denim overalls covered with paint made her feel more like an "artist" and she knew that art was a sensory experience, whatever it took to more fully create her vision. She exhaled and gave a deadpan look to Andre, almost knowing what was coming.

"Yes, Andre...I'm your boo thang..."

Andre started to exhale dramatically and walk over to her.

Andre: "Good, because if I have to look over another one of your DAMN pieces because you're scared nobody will like your work, i'll...I'll wear POLYESTER!"

Vivica laughed loudly and turned back to her work.

"I guess I have been a little insecure about things..I just want the people to come in here and sop it up!"

Andre: And PRAISE JESUS they will, girl! Now if you'll excuse me..I have a DATE tonight...and don't you have plans? That foine as hell white boy you used to hang out with invited you OUT!"

She turned away for a moment as she began to wash her brushes in the sink of her large work studio near her apartment. It WAS a good sign that Cameron wanted to hang out, but she had been a little apprehensive at first.

"Oh please, don't even start talking like THAT or next thing you know *I'll* be in the tabloids instead of that Ava Cassadine...which real talk for a minute...I'm glad that bitch is getting some press heat. I'm sure it has her psychopathic gun toting ass all in a tizzy, I swear to Go--"

Vivica stopped for a moment while assessing Andre's reaction.

"Sorry...I got a little amped up, didn't I?"

Andre snickered.

Andre: Amped up? Bitch you were MADEA there for a second!

Vivica dropped her brushes in the sink for a second as a playful look flickered in her hazel eyes. Smirking, she grabbed the water hose and turned around as fast as a bullet as she pointed the gun straight at him.

"Did you just call me Madea? I KNOW your crazy ass didn't just compare your BOSS to Madea! That's it! I'm ruining that PRADA!"

Andre let out a high pitch shriek and clutched his Prada bag.

Andre: Dont even bitch, i'm not the one...

Vivica walked forward and PULLED the trigger, proceeding to chase a shrieking Andre around the room, laughing so hard that her stomach hurt. What Andre lacked in business acumen he more than made up for by entertaining Vivica like nobody else, but with his eye for design she was sure that he would one day rise to the occassion. As she bid farewell to Andre, she locked up her studio and walked a few blocks down to her apartment in Chelsea, which was the HUB of art galleries in the city and Vivica liked to have a pulse on things.

The loft had belonged originally to her aunt Gloria, a once famous singer and performer in the city. In fact, when Vivica and Cameron first tried to open up an office for King Enterprises in New York, her aunt insisted they stay with her, even if she did live in a loft. For weeks, she cooked and cleaned for the two of them and at night would recount her racy stories of New York Society. Once her aunt retired and decided to move in with one of Vivica's FOUR other Aunts, she gave the loft to Vivica. Now as Vivica entered her building and heard the elevator doors closed, she felt grateful and safe thanks to her Aunt's generous gift. The elevator buzzed to the 8th floor and opened to reveal her cozy loft. Placing her things down, she rolled up the sleeves of her shirt to look at her watch. She had a small appetizer appointment with some perspective art buyers which thankfully happened to be a La Bella Mafia in the Parthenon. She would go to her meeting first and then meet up with the others at The Parthenon, some of whom she had not seen in an incredibly long time.

She pushed that out of her mind as she began to head straight to her bathroom. On the way she felt her head tense up with a sting of pain. Grabbing her head for a moment, she steadied herself against the wall and continued on her way.

"I've got to meet with Oracle soon. Time for a download..."

Quite some time later, Vivica was putting on the finishing touches of her makeup, something that, being an artist now seemed to matter to her like never before. She was amazed at the new looks she was no able to create, and thanks to chopping all of her hair off at near impulse, her hair didn't take NEARLY as long to style as it had before. Looking herself once over in the mirror she gave it a little shimmy, satisfied with her sexy dress choice. She looked good. After calling to confirm her Town Car was ready, Vivica headed downstairs, into the car and before long she arrived outside of the Parthenon Hotel which seemed to be in RARE form tonight. Already there was a horde of paparrazi and flashing bulbs. Vivica furrowed her brow for a moment.

"They must know that The Parthenon's Golden Boy is planning a night out...Damn!"

The LAST thing Vivica wanted to do was talk to the press. Two years ago she had to stand in front of the country and announce that she was closing King Enteprises and liquidating it's assets. They skewered her saying that she was incompetent, that she had only been Cameron's lapdog...that she didn't care about the business. Vivica did what she had to do. King Enteprises WASNT her plan. In fact, she hadn't planned on working for Cameron for as long as she did, but he was like her family. She couldn't leave. She also couldn't stand to have any of it without him. So she gambled the dice, sold off the company and bought a one way ticket to Europe. That was part of the reason she stayed in Europe for so long, she didn't want to go back to the states and be "that" girl again. She was proud of the life she had created for herself, but every now and then she found herself in situations that reminded her of the life she had shed. This was one of those moments. She took a deep breath.

"You got this girl...Smile...Sass and a little bit of ASS! Just be confident..."

The door to her towncar opened as she was enveloped with bright flashing lights and a flurry of questions and commands she was supposed to follow.

Papparazzi: Vivica! Vivica Lennox! Over here! You look stunning, Vivica! Over here! Right here! Smile! Where have you been all this time?

Vivica stood turning her head against her shoulder, striking poses as she went.

"I've been in Europe, boys! Soaking up the sun...and the romance! Now! If you'll excuse me! I have a meeting regarding my new gallery Belle Epoque..And yes, that's a plug, so if I see my picture in the paper tomorrow and ya'll don't pimp my gallery? I'm gonna be one angry chick!"

She winked and stuck her tongue out playfully as she gave the carpet once last twirl, slipping through the double doors and into the reception area of The Parthenon, safe from the press thanks to The Parthenon's incredible Security team. She made her way down the hall, past the reception desk and pressed for the private elevator that only members of the Six and their allies had access to and pressed the button for floor 59, where La Bella Mafia resided. To be honest it was her favorite restaurant in the entire city and she was almost embarrassed to see if any of the staff could recognize her voice from the many phone orders and deliveries she had been making while working on her exhibition. As the elevator door opened with a ding she made her way to the host.

"Hi..I made a reservation for Lennox for 3? I know I'm a little early, but it's an informal business meeting and i'd like to be there waiting with appetizers when they get here. Can ya do a girl a solid and seat me now?"

The host nodded and took her seat at a prime location within the restaurant. For now, her mind had to be focused on business, but soon, she was going to hang out with Cameron and The Six, something she wasn't exactly sure she WANTED to do, but something she felt was IMPORTANT to do for herself. As long as she was in Cameron's life, she had to try and be in THEIRS as well, though this time she would most definitely keep herself at a distance.

 

[Isis]

The Parthenon- Ambrosia lobby

Isis! Good evening.

Good evening...

:: She said, as she eyed Haleigh with curiosity::

Although my NAME is Dominique...unless I missed some very critical information recently and we're supposed to be fighting again?

Or do YOU PREFER the comfort and distance offered by using codenames, Black Widow?

:: Dominique was Isis to be sure, taking the name in honor of her patron goddess and the covenant they shared since her days as a little girl, but UNLIKE MALICE, Isis preferred to be addressed by her name rather than her codename, if it was not an urgent or necessary situation.::

(After Isis's comment about Malice restoring her) Yes.... She was very thorough indeed. I daresay Diana might know me better than I know myself at this point."

But that wasn't without splash damage. Haleigh knew more about Malice as well... her tragic beginnings..... She hadn't shared that information with anyone, out of respect for her.... frenemy? Acquaintance? What DO you call a former antagonist with whom you have established an armistice?

To know Diana is to chase a mirage. The closer one appears to get, the further away she actually is. But one thing is easily understood about her, Malice does not leave room for her..."work" to be questioned.

What she did for you...it was as much about HER as it was about the truce. She wanted to show that nothing...not even Mystech or any of it's GHOSTS could out maneuver her.

:: The she wasnt aware of this, Dominique's keen observation couldn't help but bring to mind what Diana had said to Haleigh shortly after she restored her at Minerva's Aerie, just before she seemingly closed the psi path between them...::

::FLASH!::

<< Minerva's Mansion, the Infirmary; THE ASTRAL PLANE. Malice has completed the deep, jarring process of RESTORING Haleigh Davidoff from her zombie state, making Haleigh only the 2nd person to be known to have COME BACK from the T Virus. ALYCIA BARNETT was the first.>>

Malice: I have put you back TOGETHER again, Isn't that nice? *I* Wouldn't have it any other way. If ANYONE is going to kill you...it's going to be ME!

:: Haleigh returned to the conversation at hand soon enough...::

Yes, that's actually part of the reason I'm here tonight. That and my sister is staying in one of the penthouses.



It was interesting to see that Isis almost seemed.... concerned about the blue moon fallout. Haleigh had always thought Isis well detached. But then the whole birth-death disaster probably brought up some awful memories for her.

Speaking of your sister...I'm sure you are aware of the latest...tabloid gossip circulating regarding her and a rather...

:: She said a dismissive tone with regards to HIM::

ORDINARY looking boy named .....SIMON PRATT?

Of course we both know that these rags churn out lies as easily you or I breathe.

And as for Delilah, as I told my nephew that night and more recently since...I do sincerely wish her well.

She may not realize it now, but she can...and SHOULD take solace in the fact that because of Spellbinder and Harbinger's actions...unwelcomed as they were...her daughter, ALEXIA, will NOT have to grow up to suffer the same fate as Nicolas.

:: She paused for a moment, looking at the picture that had captured Haleigh's attention. Now she too gazed upon it rather thoughtfully.::

I have come far in my own journey...regarding Nicolas. I realize now that no punishment I could dole out to him would match the burden, the PAIN he has...knowing that his very existence cost his mother her life and there's nothing he OR I can do about it. Sometimes, simple reality is punishment enough. ALEXIA will be spared that. Whatever ELSE may happen between now and when Delilah and Alexia are able to be together? THEY still have a chance. Nicolas...and others beside him...do not.

That reminds me.... I owe you a great deal of gratitude for the assistance you rendered my team during the Blue Moon. It was far more than required by the truce, so thank you. I wish I could have been there myself..... but I was otherwise engaged.

I appreciate your saying so, Haleigh. But I must tell you, I had a personal stake in helping The Six that night, so I can't say that it was a purely selfless motive on my part.

Moreover...somethings are simply BEYOND good and evil. I think we ALL learned that with Set...

The Blue Moon was another reminder of that.

it effected ALL magick users, myself included. NOT since Isis herself revived me, as I lay down in the harsh, unforgiving desert, reaching OUT for DEATH'S embrace, had I felt so SICK. My POWER was ebbing from me and there was nothing I could do to stop it.

Cameron King was among the FIRST of your team to try to alleviate my suffering.

:: Dominique relaxes a bit as she says his name, unaware of what Haleigh had just heard from the passing bartender::

He prooved to be...most impressive with his efforts.

::recalling Cameron's strong but gentle touch as he massaged her temples and shoulders; the herbs and potions he burned to counteract her throbbing headaches as she ailed from the blue moon...he really showed how far he'd come and it had been...MOST impressive to Dominique. ::



When Nicolas brought word of Harbinger's need for my assistance, it was her's without asking. I have a strong respect for Harbinger in particular. She is a worthy adversary, but her role on this earth is unique and necessary. Few could carry that mantle and burden, but she does. Just as I continue to honor the covenant with my goddess and carry the burden of safeguarding Nicolas, so that SET remains forever locked away in the oblivion I sent him to, with your team's help.

Your sister, Persephone, reached out to me that night as well, since the Blue Moon BLOCKED her from being able to communicate with...or even SENSE her mother, Demeter...along with Athena and Hecate. I was able to bridge a channel of communication with my magicks before I lost my strength...and THAT, in turn, allowed Ava and Nicolas to gain valuable information from the goddesses which benefited Spellbinder and Rampage in their battle against Circe.

I helped Persephone not only because of the truce, but because of friendly channels our respective pantheons have shared for centuries. Isis regularly communed with Demeter and Hecate and knew PERSEPHONE when SHE was but a child.

So you see...even BEYOND the truce between our "teams"...I think about MYSELF and I realize and ACCEPT that there are many curious and unusual ties between your team and I that, for better or worse, BIND.

 

[Prophet]

Melrose Place - Apartment #4

What WOULD Morgan say, seeing her sister and Cameron traipsing about in their underwear in HER apartment? The idea made her smirk a little even as she focused on the task at hand, chosing from one of several outfits, sent over by Sally Spectra, as she prepared for the first leg of her whirlwind adventure with Cameron and Nicolas.

"Admit it, King, You're just hot and bothered over the sight of me in my undies."

She teased as she continued to look over one of three possible outfits. She'd already tried two of them on, twice. Now she began trying on the second one.


"You want me to help you show Morg how BAD you are? Maybe we can role play 'Miss Victory disciplines the naughty school boy' and record it, just for Morgan! BUT I can't promise that ALISON or someone ELSE might not "ACCIDENTLY" get a copy of it either!"

Laughing softly as she stuck her tongue out at Cameron.

Cameron laughed out loud.

"Now YOU Blaze, are a TRUE pervert...I like it!"

As he inquired about her choosing an outfit for the night, she thankfully decided on the right one.

"Ah, this is the one."

She says with certainty about the outfit she now has on, as she slips into matching high heels and does a slow turn in front of the 3-way mirror, taking a moment to admire the view from the back.

From what she'd heard of "After-Dark" from her sister and the others, showing some SKIN was the way to get IN and again, Blaze was not ashamed of her body by any means!

Her auburn hair was perfectly coiffed and her make up, high heels and accessories coordinated with her daring red and black outfit.

"Yeah, I'm ready."

Her eyes sparkle with allure and intrigue as she looks over Cameron, who also included the color black in his ensemble.

"Not bad, pretty boy!"

"Just needs a little touch..."

Unbuttoning a few more buttons on his shirt to reveal more of his chest

Slowly walking by him before GRABBING his junk.

"And the pants fit JUST right! Maybe I SHOULD warm you up for Alycia!"

Laughing softly as she licked her pouty, glossed lips.

Cameron's eyes lit up as he was caught offguard. Quickly he took his free hands and WRAPPED them right around Blaze's ass.

"Something tells me you are good at WARMING things up! HAH!"

He gave Blaze a friendly and dramatically comical kiss on the lips before squeezing her tightly and letting her go, just as Nicolas appeared and Blaze was sure to shoot down his outfit. It was a little dressed up for the evening, but that was kind of Nicolas' thing. Blaze however, just wasn't having it.

"She sent over these wicked sexy outfits that were PERFECT for that club. She's coming there tonight too. What will she say if she sees her "Chocolate Beefcake" dressed like he's going to the convent!?"

Blaze and Cameron both have a laugh, but it's all in fun.

"This is supposed to be FUN in the night, Nicolas."

When it came to fashion, Blaze Victory was as particular as Morgan, and would not hesitate to let someone know. Fashion was not just a look, it was a calling card and more importantly, it could be a WEAPON!

Cameron laughed as he looked at Nicolas.

"Ah, sorry NK! Looks like our girl doesn't approve!"

In the same moment, Nicolas shifted his outfit to an even MORE ridiculous option just in the completely opposite direction.

"Oh so we went from funeral to North Pole Call Boy!"

[laughing]

"Here...try on a little something more like this..."

Cameron sifted through the clothes on the bed before finding an outfit he thought was suitable for the evening.

"Now grab some one of those sexy fedora's and you're good to go! Speaking of GOING!"

He glanced down on his watch.

"Enough of this debauchery...The Limo has arrived out front! Let's GO folks!"

Cameron began to usher everybody together and out the door, making sure everybody had everything they needed before shuttling them down the stairs like a mad man. They had a lot to do tonight and one of those things included a FLIGHT to NYC....Speaking of NYC...he popped his phone out and quickly sent DELILAH a text message.

"Couldn't even last 48 hours, Trelaven? Anyway...Love you, travel safely..You have free run of The Parthenon should you wish...your penthouse has already been set up to your specifications. Wherever you choose to stay, just let me know that you got to the city safely, and keep me posted...or i'll kick your ass. Muah!"

He hadn't seen Delilah much in the past two days but he had been filled in by Alycia that she was planning to return to New York...he didn't necessarily DISAGREE with her choice, he just wanted to continue to make sure that she was okay and to know that certain doors were always open to her. He couldn't baby Delilah, he could only be there as much as she decided to let him be for her. He shook his head for a moment, watching the others start to get into the Limo...he decided to send one last text message...to HALEIGH

"Well, well, WELL Davidoff...I haven't even seen you yet but i've heard you have caused quite a COMMOTION...Glad to have you back...Your sister is joining the gang for drinks and debauchery at the Parthenon later..and your ass BETTER be there. Love, Stud."

Locking his phone, he shoved it into his pocket as he began to LOUDLY yell out in the middle of the courtyard.

"CASSANDRA! Darling! We're leaving! So get your ass in the Limo in the next 90 seconds or you'll have to drive yourself...and this is LA...NOBODY passes up the chance to NOT DRIVE!"

Smiling to himself, he headed towards the Limo, ready to continue the festivities.