Casualties of the nightmare

[Rampage]

Learn how to be STILL. Learn how to LISTEN....and LEARN!

Certainly. Farewell, Isis.

As the sorceress left, the demigod collected by TK the sand left in her wake. As Isis returned to her suite at the Hellfire Club she would find, fashioned from her own sand into flawless crystal, a small figurine of her sister in perfect detail from the memories she previously shared with Nicolas. With it was a note.

Thanks for everything. Even though you did not wish to, you helped me anyway and I am grateful. I hope you will accept this from me, I thought you might like it. Take care.

Nicolas looked at Sharon, who was still not happy with his behavior in facing Barbas.

Forgive me. I was not as careful as I should have been, just could sense him...out there and I hated to leave him behind. It was my mistake. I make a lot of them lately. Strange...before last year when my father died, I can't remember making even ONE. The realization is still a bit discomfiting.

Nicolas sat back down hard in a chair...

 

[Spellbinder]

apartment 4

"I'm not going to sit here and play Dr. Phil and try to argue that Nicolas is your black knight in shinning armor. I think the whole team is tired of the drama especially with Barbas. But you ARE living Morgan! I know that's easier said than done but trust me when I say...you've got it easy here! You have your family, your friends, and even a great career! While I understand you're hurting and haunted by these ghosts. Don't let them get to you. Do you REALIZE how powerful you are?! You can control time and space and you even have a whole horde of demons in Limbo at your disposal. I think that's pretty cool honestly."

Morgan laughed as she exhaled. Nicolas? MY knight in armour? even if I could have allowed myself to think that BEFORE...that all ENDED when Set appeared...and when he...did what he did. Not only that, but just recently, when he attacked Delilah! I can't get over that. the image is STILL in my head! I mean..I'e ALWAYS been prepared to fight or KILL a man if i had to in order to protect myself , my mother or my friends...I EXPECTED him to try something with ME...but with Delilah? oh HELL no!

I feel like I lost my EDGE between the Arklay incident and now. a Man like Nicolas would have been reduced to ASH had he come across me during my days with Valiant!



<< Firebird and HER Spellbinder also began with Valiant in Firebird's timeline so she would be able to identify with that reference>>

"That's where your wrong. You still care....I saw the way you looked at Nicolas earlier. I know that even though Mike infuriates you you try to be tolerant of him for Karen's sake. Deep down under all of that ice....is a beating heart. It's exhausting and everything Barbas has done is wearing on us all. But fear will always exist just like war. We can defeat it but most likely we can't destroy it. But we all made a huge step today. I hate to say this but even Nicolas and Michael made an effort. Maybe Karen was under a spell. If you had a daughter would you want to recall the demons you fought or a grandaughter? If I was a witch I'd cast a spell at least to give them an ounce of a normal life without nightmares."

<< Morgan gulped down her cocktail and swallowed as Firebird spoke dead on and without beating around the bush.>>

see? that's what i'm talking about. even you can tell that beneath it all...i stil....<< gritting her teeth.>> CARE!? WHY? WHY should i care? he didnt care about ME! He didnt care when he slutted it up with Haleigh and TERRORIZED the rest of us!

<< the bitterness was there.>>

i think my problem is that i got caught unaware! i feel like i took a risk, and got the rug pulled out from under me and it DID. but even BEFORE then, Nicolas says "all he wanted was for me to love him"...that ISNT how he showed that on Aerie before Alison and Ava were lost in the time stream.

<< setter her goblet down on the table, Morgan lays back and exhales>>

im so tired of it all. i just want this to be completely resolved so i can move on!

Blaze smirked like a Cheshire cat, "Who says we can't find out right now?" Blaze placed her drink down on the coaster of the table in front of the large leather sectional. Turning on her side to face Morgan, "You wouldn't by any chance have a spirit board?" Blaze canted her head to the side as her eyes sparkled full of mischief.

a spirit board? oh PLEASE, who do you think I am? some AMATEUR like PHOEBE HALLIWELL!?

<< she laughed as she slid forward a bit.>>

but we CAN do something else to contact grammie...

<< about to summon the darkhold... The two were momentarily interrupted by an apparition. Frowning, Blaze watched as the events played out. >>

"I don't know are you sure Nicolas is straight, honey? He has more drama then a queen on gay pride week."

<< Morgan guffawed, considernig how SERIOUS Nicolas and Mike took themselves...to have Blaze sum it up like that was MORE than a little funny! Just the counter she needed but as the apparition played out, Morgan becamse serious and she and Blaze watched. taking in what they saw and commenting.>>


I wonder why WE saw it.

<< REALLY wishing she hadnt seen it. >>

Blaze, I don't want to seem weak or foolish. I tried to make a CLEAN break from Nicolas, but we see how well THAT is gone. Barbas is using that to GET to me.

We need to DEAL with him!

<< Tinker climbed up on the couch...happy now that she'd eaten. she laid down to groom herself...and Morgan looked up at the ceiling and closed her eyes.>>

 

[Silver Swan]

apartment # 3

[ Sharon tucked some of her blonde, silver streaked hair behind her ear as she stood quietly, letting Dominique handle her nephew. She too respected the truce between the Sisterhood and the Six. they owed each other their lives. ]

[ She couldnt help but smile insider herself as Dominique scolded Nicolas but he NEEDED to be corrected in order to know to do better. He offered his aunt a drink and while Sharon was prepared to leave the room and let them have time to talk, the Black Queen opted to leave quickly. Sharon didnt blame her. SHE wouldnt want to have lunch with Malice or Enchantra...or even Haleigh without a reason.]

[ the sorceress nodded to her and she returned the acknowledgement. then the woman departed and Sharon fixed her silver eyes on Nicolas, looking irritated and he knew what she felt.]

Nicolas looked at Sharon, who was still not happy with his behavior in facing Barbas.

Forgive me. I was not as careful as I should have been, just could sense him...out there and I hated to leave him behind. It was my mistake. I make a lot of them lately. Strange...before last year when my father died, I can't remember making even ONE. The realization is still a bit discomfiting.

Nicolas sat back down hard in a chair...

I know how it feels. I journeyed to Arklay....half out of my mind with anger at the situation about my son, but also driven by instinct as his mother. I didnt care what lay in waiting...i just WENT and despite my new found power, i could have been killed...or LOST in the mansion for any length of time. YOU could have been killed by Barbas!

That's Alison's brother. and she's a precog. She knows what she's doing. If you died tonight...we'd have to worry about your monster of a father as well as Barbas. Is that what you want?

[ looking down at the young man, Sharon placed her silver armoured hand on his shoulder.]

just take it easy tonight, okay?

[ looking at a clock on the wall]

we're far from where we need to be. i dont have to be a precog to know THAT and with the realization that Alison's brother is ALIVE...and held prisoner by Barbas...that just makes it worse. We don't want to lose him like we lost Arielle!

and HER death MUST be avenged! he spilled her blood...he must ANSWER for that!

 

[Firebird]

Apt. 4

Nicolas? MY knight in armour? even if I could have allowed myself to think that BEFORE...that all ENDED when Set appeared...and when he...did what he did. Not only that, but just recently, when he attacked Delilah! I can't get over that. the image is STILL in my head! I mean..I'e ALWAYS been prepared to fight or KILL a man if i had to in order to protect myself , my mother or my friends...I EXPECTED him to try something with ME...but with Delilah? oh HELL no!

I feel like I lost my EDGE between the Arklay incident and now. a Man like Nicolas would have been reduced to ASH had he come across me during my days with Valiant!

"Nobody said you had to get over it, Morg. Out of everyone to attack Delilah didn't deserve it." Blaze listened while nodding along. "Maybe he does love you after all....why else wouldn't he confront you?"

Staring into her sister's violet eyes, Blaze watched Tinkerbell from the couch. "You did lose your edge. But we both know you're capable of getting it back. Maybe you just need to focus on your family, your career, and about you!" Blaze sat forward on the couch. "Why not take what you want? If men can do it so can women. And you were very fierce in Valient." Smirking at the memory of that team. "You had a real edge about you but you only needed to worry about you and me. That's what you need now."

see? that's what i'm talking about. even you can tell that beneath it all...i stil....<< gritting her teeth.>> CARE!? WHY? WHY should i care? he didnt care about ME! He didnt care when he slutted it up with Haleigh and TERRORIZED the rest of us!

"And that comes as a surprise to you? We both know men think differently than women. He wanted to have his cake and eat it too." Reaching down to squeeze Morgan's hand. "Do NOT let Nicolas King bring you down! You were fine BEFORE you met and you will be fine AFTER him. He and Haleigh did a terrible thing but Haleigh had the courage to be honest. She didn't try to blame it on her heritage. Which is why I respect her. I don't always agree with her methods but if I had to choose between Nicolas and Haleigh then I would choose Haleigh." Pausing to consider Morgan's words for a second. "I'm very observant but you don't need a map to see you care, Morgan. You're not a robot. It is NORMAL to feel compassion despite all of the heartache, agony, and pain that occurred. It's all a part of the moving on process. It does get easier everyday. Just try not to focus on it. Keep busy. Focus on your career as I said. He has to deal with his actions. We all do."

i think my problem is that i got caught unaware! i feel like i took a risk, and got the rug pulled out from under me and it DID. but even BEFORE then, Nicolas says "all he wanted was for me to love him"...that ISNT how he showed that on Aerie before Alison and Ava were lost in the time stream.

"Getting caught off guard isn't the only problem. You loved him...you still do. But that's the beauty of love, babe. You take risks on those you care and love for. You guys all took a risk with me. It takes two to tango in the love department. Love is reciprocated. Did you ever question why you were hesitant? Does he know the history with Christopher? Look, I'm going to be bias here because you're my sister, mainstream or not. I want the best for you."

im so tired of it all. i just want this to be completely resolved so i can move on!

"You and me both! But unfortunately, everything has to run its course. But you CAN move on now. The more you focus on yourself the easier it will become and before you know it you'll be on your way."

a spirit board? oh PLEASE, who do you think I am? some AMATEUR like PHOEBE HALLIWELL!?

"Actually, I had you pegged more as Prue Halliwell." :hehe2:

Chuckling at Morgan's jest. It was good to see the statuesque blonde making cracks. A sign the old Morgan was still in there.

but we CAN do something else to contact grammie...

"Spill."

The apparition would play out showing a different side to Nicolas.

I wonder why WE saw it.

"Well, didn't Alison predict that Nicolas would get back on the right track?"

Blaze, I don't want to seem weak or foolish. I tried to make a CLEAN break from Nicolas, but we see how well THAT is gone. Barbas is using that to GET to me.

We need to DEAL with him!

"I don't consider you weak or foolish. You didn't exactly make a clean break. You put distance between you and it didn't work. It was a temporary fix that only delayed the obvious." Blaze got up to take her empty glass and Morgan's to the kitchen. In the process she grabbed the remote from the coffee table to turn on the stereo. "Circus" by Britney Spears would begin to play.

"You just need to relax and have a good time in the comfort of your own home! After all there are two types of guys out there. The ones that can hang with you and the ones that are scared."

Making them a more potent drink 'Firebird' style. Grabbing two tall shot glasses, 1/2 shot of Vodka, 1/2 shot of white Tequila, 1/2 shot Brandy, and 1/2 shot Kalua to make a Flaming Colombian Cockroach.

Returning from the kitchen to set both drinks down onto the table with two straws. Blaze grinned devilishly, pointing her index finger at Morgan's drink to light it on fire. "Drink up, Morg! You need to drink quickly though through the straw. Otherwise the straw will melt and DO NOT blow in the straw or you will loose your eyebrows." Blaze moved to sit down next to her sibling while Tinkerbell jumped up onto the couch.

"I'm like a fire cracker, I make it hot!"

Chuckling, Blaze was exactly what her sister needed right now, fun!

"Now, when you say we need to deal with him..are we talking about Barbas or Nicolas?" Taking a few gulps of the strong drink, Blaze didn't mind listening. Her main goal was to try to take Morgan's mind off of Nicolas and Barbas for once.

 

[Siren]

Zach: Well I don't know much about your sister… maybe she's just overwhelmed… maybe she just needs a breather to figure out which end is up.

"Yeah."

Downing the last half of her martini, Claudia placed the empty glass on the bartop. Lifting her hand casually in a 'stop' motion, the tender nodded, realizing she was cutting herself off. Opening her small black clutch, Claudia began to rummage around the interior looking for money to pay her tab with. But as Zach continued on with his 'theory', she abruptly stopped.

Zach: OR maybe… you're projecting… and actually you're the one who's stressed out, and you're here because you don't know how to act around her…. Because you said you'd protect her, but you feel guilty now because you're not sure that you CAN protect her.

He was right. Spot on actually. Claudia promised Clara she would never let anything happen to her, yet there was no way to stop Barbas....atleast no way that SHE knew of. She brought Clara to LA, she convinced her to stay at Melrose Place, and now her sister was paying the consequences for her choices. As she sat there, feeling way too emotionally exposed for her taste, Claudia decided her conversation with Dr. Freud needed to end. Taking out a couple hundred dollar bills, she tossed them onto he bar and slid off her seat.

"That's an interesting take on things, Zach. [closing her purse] I will make sure to stop by the next time I need some psychotherapy. [her voice becomes a bit perkier] In the mean time..."

Turning his face to her, Claudia gives him a quick peck on the lips.

[with a girly grin] "If you change your mind, you know where to find me."

Falling back into her 'comfort zone' of sex, it was one of the only ways Claudia knew how to handle a vulnerable situation. Walking away before Zach could object, protest, yell, or whatever else he wanted to do, Claudia exited the Tropicana bar and headed to the elevators, preparing to return to her suite.

 

[Harbinger]

apartment 1

:: Alison shut her colbalt blue eyes as Delilah rushed over and helped her, after the glass shattered in her hand. She breathed in deeply, and exhaled slowly. this "pain" was NOTHING to what she'd endured in the time stream, alongside Ava.::

"Alison, this is not your fault! You take care of all of us, just like you always took care of Cameron. He is his own man – thanks largely to you. He has made his own choices, as we all have. You are not responsible for all the evil in the world, and you do more than anyone to fight that, to protect everyone you can. Even when we don’t deserve it.”

Her hands gripped Alison’s arms as she forced her friend to look her in the eyes.

But isnt part of my role as the Harbinger...as a PRECOG...to be responsiable...or at least AWARE of all the evil? whats happening, what COULD happen? I am charged with keeping the "ancient artifacts" as well as the "secrets" of this world safe from the wrong hands. each of those items has a history...a story. Just look at the sceptre of isis? the wand that is now in Dominique's posession.

CURSE Cameron for getting into my heart again! I tried to freeze him out after i LEFT all those years ago. It was easy to HATE him when i saw him again in Illustra the night before the Citadle melted down...but during the Inferno...my...sisterly instincts kicked in, and when he seemed to have LEARNED from his mistakes...i saw traces of the boy i knew and i immediately wanted to protect him. But SEVERAL distinct times I have failed.

I seemed to do a MUCH better job when I was just...Guardian...and not Harbinger.

[unaware that Morgan was saying the same thing]: Am i losing my edge, Delilah?

[ sighing, as Delilah removed the glass, and treated Alison's hand before wrapping it up. Alison opened her eyes. they were a little misty now.]

“We will save Cameron from this. And we will send Barbas back to hell or wherever he came from.”

She let go of Alison’s arms, folding her instead into a hug. The Seer wasn’t really a “hugger” but this was a special case – rarely did Alison let her emotions get the best of her, a telling reaction to the strain of Barbas, for sure.

:: was like that night when Cameron reached out to hug Alison after the the Inferno, when mainstream Blaze had been lost. Alison HERSELF was not known for hugs...but even SHE had come to learn, through her time with the Six and her brother and "sisters" that sometimes a hug was okay. Alison shut her eyes TIGHTLY as she tried not to let the tears flow. Barbas had really hurt her, and he nearly consumed her, not once but TWICE. it was moments like THIS where the the toll could be seen. ::

“You and Morgan take the world onto your shoulders – when will you see that you have the rest of us to share the weight?”

[ speaking softly.]

Delilah...you're a good friend. Don't let Mike or Nicolas tell you any different.

 

[Spellbinder]

apartment 4

Staring into her sister's violet eyes, Blaze watched Tinkerbell from the couch. "You did lose your edge. But we both know you're capable of getting it back. Maybe you just need to focus on your family, your career, and about you!" Blaze sat forward on the couch. "Why not take what you want? If men can do it so can women. And you were very fierce in Valient." Smirking at the memory of that team. "You had a real edge about you but you only needed to worry about you and me. That's what you need now."



"And that comes as a surprise to you? We both know men think differently than women. He wanted to have his cake and eat it too." Reaching down to squeeze Morgan's hand. "Do NOT let Nicolas King bring you down! You were fine BEFORE you met and you will be fine AFTER him. He and Haleigh did a terrible thing but Haleigh had the courage to be honest. She didn't try to blame it on her heritage. Which is why I respect her. I don't always agree with her methods but if I had to choose between Nicolas and Haleigh then I would choose Haleigh."

I remember when Haleigh came back to rescuse Alison and Myself in NERVOUS.

<< a caper from a long time ago.>>

I remember so many moments where Haleigh prooved she could be trusted! And then just when I began to think of her as a dear friend, she pulls the rug out from under me! her behavior at times is so unexplainable, even for Alison! But at the same time...like YOU, I RESPECT Haleigh, even if I don't always care for her behavior.

I had a conversation in the courtyard with her just 2 days ago after escaping the figure that i thought was Nicolas. I told her I was ANGRY and HURT by what she did with Nicolas during the Set caper. We finallyl worked things out and she apologized...and this time, i BELIEVED HER. I was able to forgive and move on.

<< but why couldnt she forgive Nicolas as easily? why wasnt it as easy to move on from it with him? because Blaze was right...she DID love him...maybe she still did!? So WHAT? sometimes LOVE wasnt enough. >>

Sometimes LOVE just isnt enough. Nicolas spends too much time trying to spread/share his blame and its getting old. FAST. He needs to leave Delilah alone too!

Pausing to consider Morgan's words for a second. "I'm very observant but you don't need a map to see you care, Morgan. You're not a robot. It is NORMAL to feel compassion despite all of the heartache, agony, and pain that occurred. It's all a part of the moving on process. It does get easier everyday. Just try not to focus on it. Keep busy. Focus on your career as I said. He has to deal with his actions. We all do."

"Getting caught off guard isn't the only problem. You loved him...you still do. But that's the beauty of love, babe. You take risks on those you care and love for. You guys all took a risk with me. It takes two to tango in the love department. Love is reciprocated.

<< nodding...Morgan reflected for a moment. she had worked HARD to get her career back on track. why shouldnt she throw herself into it? find a NEW focus?>>

Did you ever question why you were hesitant? Does he know the history with Christopher?

He knows. He knows from me, from my mother...Alison...ANYONE who has been there for a long time. He knows better!

Look, I'm going to be bias here because you're my sister, mainstream or not. I want the best for you."

I'm glad to have my sister back...

"You and me both! But unfortunately, everything has to run its course. But you CAN move on now. The more you focus on yourself the easier it will become and before you know it you'll be on your way."



"I don't consider you weak or foolish. You didn't exactly make a clean break. You put distance between you and it didn't work. It was a temporary fix that only delayed the obvious."

You just need to relax and have a good time in the comfort of your own home! After all there are two types of guys out there. The ones that can hang with you and the ones that are scared."


Making them a more potent drink 'Firebird' style. Grabbing two tall shot glasses, 1/2 shot of Vodka, 1/2 shot of white Tequila, 1/2 shot Brandy, and 1/2 shot Kalua to make a Flaming Colombian Cockroach.

Returning from the kitchen to set both drinks down onto the table with two straws. Blaze grinned devilishly, pointing her index finger at Morgan's drink to light it on fire. "Drink up, Morg! You need to drink quickly though through the straw. Otherwise the straw will melt and DO NOT blow in the straw or you will loose your eyebrows." Blaze moved to sit down next to her sibling while Tinkerbell jumped up onto the couch.



Blaze got up to take her empty glass and Morgan's to the kitchen. In the process she grabbed the remote from the coffee table to turn on the stereo. "Circus" by Britney Spears would begin to play.



"I'm like a fire cracker, I make it hot!"

Chuckling, Blaze was exactly what her sister needed right now, fun!

"Now, when you say we need to deal with him..are we talking about Barbas or Nicolas?" Taking a few gulps of the strong drink, Blaze didn't mind listening. Her main goal was to try to take Morgan's mind off of Nicolas and Barbas for once.

<< running her hands through her hair...she enjoyed Britney's song Circus. the lyrics were so fitting of her. taking her new drink...Morgan sipped first. It was DEFINATELY strong! her violet eyes opened wide at first.>>

where'd you learn how to make a drink? in a bar with military men?

<< in the end, Blaze helped her see what she wanted and NEEDED to do. obviously send Barbas screaming back to hell and then focus on her career!>>

my life as somebody's girlfriend is OVER! My life as the glamorous super model and demon sorceress, UNATAINABLE by most men is about to begin ANEW!

to the humiliation of Barbas and to a new life worth living where WE are first...and MEN can kiss my ENTIRE ass!

<< and they toast to that.>>

Now...let's see about contacting Grammie! maybe we can get the jump on Barbas!

 

[Firebird]

Apt 4 - Morg's place

I remember when Haleigh came back to rescuse Alison and Myself in NERVOUS.

"On my world, Haleigh also rescued a few of us. Except alternate Haleigh was unobtainable emotionally. Even I couldn't get to her! On my world Haleigh was my best friend....but she lost too much. I won't accept that of you or mainstream Haleigh. You both will learn and grow just as any woman would."

It seemed that even Blaze was opening up about her teammates from her world. The ones she left behind for her new team now. It had been a rash decision but Blaze wanted more. More than her world had offered her. At least here she had a chance to grow.

I remember so many moments where Haleigh prooved she could be trusted! And then just when I began to think of her as a dear friend, she pulls the rug out from under me! her behavior at times is so unexplainable, even for Alison! But at the same time...like YOU, I RESPECT Haleigh, even if I don't always care for her behavior.

I had a conversation in the courtyard with her just 2 days ago after escaping the figure that i thought was Nicolas. I told her I was ANGRY and HURT by what she did with Nicolas during the Set caper. We finallyl worked things out and she apologized...and this time, i BELIEVED HER. I was able to forgive and move on.

"I don't think she meant to deceive you or even hurt you. While her methods at times are unconventional it's her way of thinking. All I'm concerned is that she has my six in battle and that I can trust her. We may not always agree with each other and Mike is a prime example. But even he pulls it together in the end."

Blaze listened intensely at this new bit of a revelation between Morgan and Haleigh. "Haleigh understood how you felt and I'm glad you two worked it out. Both of you are our the strongest of the team and with the both of you at odds it doesn't bode well for the team. At least Barbas can't use that against either of you."

Sometimes LOVE just isnt enough. Nicolas spends too much time trying to spread/share his blame and its getting old. FAST. He needs to leave Delilah alone too!

"Yes, that's a valid point and I fully agree. This isn't the Moulin Rouge movie. Nicolas is still on thin ice with me after attacking, D! If he even looks at her the wrong way I'll turn him into a pile of melted chocolate and his Aunt can restore him."

He knows. He knows from me, from my mother...Alison...ANYONE who has been there for a long time. He knows better!

"I'm not so sure about that. If he knows he would be more sympatric of your feelings. But I don't know the guy well either so it's not fair for me to say."

I'm glad to have my sister back...

"Right back at ya."

where'd you learn how to make a drink? in a bar with military men?

Blaze grinned wider, "Don't ask, don't tell."

my life as somebody's girlfriend is OVER! My life as the glamorous super model and demon sorceress, UNATAINABLE by most men is about to begin ANEW!

"Yes this isn't Desperate House witches. Live your life. That's my girl!" Morgan needed to be single for awhile to mend her broken heart. Focus on herself and her career.

to the humiliation of Barbas and to a new life worth living where WE are first...and MEN can kiss my ENTIRE ass!

Raising her glass in the air, "You go girl! Cheers!" Toasting with Morgan to new beginnings.

Now...let's see about contacting Grammie! maybe we can get the jump on Barbas!

"Lead the way."

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah’s heart wrenched at the depth of Alison’s hurt.

But isn’t part of my role as the Harbinger...as a PRECOG...to be responsible...or at least AWARE of all the evil? What’s happening, what COULD happen?

“But Alison – you know as well as I do that we don’t always believe the things you say, the things you see. Heck, MOST of the times sometimes it seems we don’t. YOU can’t be held accountable for our stupidity.”

Delilah ventured a small smile at that. Though she knew that one of Alison’s chief frustrations was that her teammates frequently disregarded the things she told them.

I seemed to do a MUCH better job when I was just...Guardian...and not Harbinger. Am I losing my edge, Delilah?

Delilah exhaled sharply and gave a stern look.

“Alison…Guardian and Harbinger are one and the same. You didn’t become a different person just by giving yourself a new name. You were gifted with a great new responsibility – but you are still Alison Marble. And even YOU are not infallible, EVERYONE makes mistakes, and SOMETIMES things are just not under our CONTROL. You haven’t failed because you were a bad person, or because you did something wrong – it happens, even when there is nothing we could have done differently. You can see so many different futures and probabilities – surely you can see that.”

Delilah looked down at her lap, then continued.

“I’ve made mistakes – errors in judgment. And I have carried them around with me for a very long time. But I know now that I have to forgive myself, or I will never be able to move past it. I must use what I learned from my mistakes to be better, now, in the present. I can’t dwell on the past anymore. And neither can you. Let’s focus on what we can do NOW, together.”

Alison allowed herself to be hugged – no small feat.

Delilah...you're a good friend. Don't let Mike or Nicolas tell you any different.

Delilah just gave her a half-smile.

“In that alternate reality, I saw what it did to me when I didn’t have you and Morgan in my life. I was a cold and unfeeling monster. YOU have never failed me, Alison.. Don’t let anything make you feel like you’re not important to this world – because at the very least, you are important to me.”

 

[Rampage]

I know how it feels. I journeyed to Arklay....half out of my mind with anger at the situation about my son, but also driven by instinct as his mother. I didnt care what lay in waiting...i just WENT and despite my new found power, i could have been killed...or LOST in the mansion for any length of time. YOU could have been killed by Barbas!

That's Alison's brother. and she's a precog. She knows what she's doing. If you died tonight...we'd have to worry about your monster of a father as well as Barbas. Is that what you want?

[ looking down at the young man, Sharon placed her silver armoured hand on his shoulder.]

just take it easy tonight, okay?

Very well. I understand that no one wants the return of Set. But when I joined this team, I accepted the risk of my own death. I cannot operate constantly thinking about the consequences, although I should have shown more discretion in this case.

Nicolas accepted her hand on his shoulder, holding it with his own as she spoke again.

we're far from where we need to be. i dont have to be a precog to know THAT and with the realization that Alison's brother is ALIVE...and held prisoner by Barbas...that just makes it worse. We don't want to lose him like we lost Arielle!

and HER death MUST be avenged! he spilled her blood...he must ANSWER for that!

Indeed. But tonight...I want to find a way...apparently a DIFFERENT way to relax. I appreciate the time we have hung out HERE, but with it becoming obvious now that I am not STALKING Morgan...

<<Nicolas' let's loose a derisive chuckle...AS IF!!>>

I am heading out to have some fun.

Nicolas' changes his outfit to more appropriate attire for an evening out and rises quickly, with a gleam in his eyes as he nods to Sharon, then walks out of her apartment...

...and arrives at the Tropicana, standing in the elevators as the doors open to greet Claudia Zacharra. He looks her over quickly and smiles.

Boo.

 

[Siren]

Casually waiting for the elevator to arrive, Claudia fully intended to head back to her suite, check on Clara, and take a cold shower. After four very dry martinis within a half hour period, she was definitely feeling buzzed and needed to try and stay awake. Drinking so heavily may not have been the best course of action, but quite frankly, she NEEDED to take her mind off everything.

The soft ding of the elevator caused Claudia to look up at the opening doors. A bit surprised to see Nicolas King standing inside, she raised both eyebrows, smirking.

Nicolas: Boo.

"Boo yourself. What the hell are you doing here?"

Getting inside the elevator, Claudia hit the Penthouse suite button; the doors of the elevator shutting before it started to ascend to the top floor.

"Don't you know i'm 'bad' to be around?"

Refering to his friends [deserving] dislike and mistrust of her, Nicolas was playing a very dangerous game by continuing to keep contact with her. As the elevator continued to climb to the top floor, Claudia relaxed against the elevator wall; her back pressed against it and arms folded loosely across her torso.

"Either you're extremely stupid...or you like a little danger in your life."

 

[Rampage]

"Either you're extremely stupid...or you like a little danger in your life."

While I HAVE heard of how BAD you can be...I am a grown man, and I will speak with who I choose. You've done some crazy shit lately, but I like our rapport. Besides, I know few people who qualify for sainthood; most of the saints I know are dead. Now...

Nicolas stepped closer to the woman, his height and physical presence becoming more noticeable.

...admit it. You are happy to see me.

 

[Black Widow]

Alison: "The Zaccharas have taken their leave for the evening, Haleigh...you better check your apartment, and quickly."

Haleigh, puzzled, check the surveillance on her own apartment.

"Son of a bitch…"

She grumbled, as she disappeared from view to take care of it. She reappeared in her apartment, in water ankle deep. Turning off all the faucets, she also repaired the busted pipes and opened the front door to let the water drain out. The carpet was waterlogged and squished with every step Haleigh manifested a couple of commercial grade wet vacs and put them to use, shaking her head with a smile. That stupid bitch Claudia had fled her apartment, but not without trying to get even first. It was amusing, even if annoying and inconvenient.

Something caught her eye…. Some sort of… holographic projection of Nicolas and the Justicer Trelevan of an alternate timeline. As Nic struggled, Haleigh activated the intercom to Sharon's apartment and urged her to wake him up, but even as she did so, she could tell Sharon was trying and meeting resistance.

"God DAMN it…. Why would he DO this after Alison told him to WAIT?? The REST of us knew good and damn well not to do ANYTHING like sleep!"

There was little she could do… she didn't have any kind of access to the astral plane… but luckily, Dominique DID and she was the one who pulled him back. Haleigh took a deep breath and relaxed, sinking into the leather sofa, thankful that the disaster was averted. The vacuums in her apartment hummed loudly and the suction added to the din. Haleigh rubbed her temples as she checked on everyone else in Melrose. They were all fine, if a little shook up, and Haleigh hoped they had the good sense to do whatever it took to stay awake the rest of the night. She glanced around her apartment…. The vacs would do most of the work, but the carpet would still be a little damp. It was humid in here… the water and the heat had been on… and she was sitting here, all alone. She needed something to keep her up tonight…. Something to take her mind off things. Something to distract her from the revelation that Cameron was alive and at the mercy of Barbas… and apparently not doing so well. She got up, activating the intercom to Delilah's apartment. She monitored the conversation, not to eavesdrop but to wait for a break in the conversation. Alison and Delilah were having a nice heart to heart and as Haleigh watched them hug, she decided not to interrupt. After all… Alison was a precog and would know where Haleigh was going and how to reach her in an emergency, and Haleigh would continue to periodically check in on everyone.

Haleigh appeared in Zach's suite at the Roosevelt. It was dark and empty in here… he wasn't here. A quick scan revealed his DNA signature downstairs in the bar. She headed out to the elevators… located the empty one and brought it directly to her, hijacking it from other hotel patrons who were waiting for it. She already knew the Zaccharas were staying in this hotel… a quick look at the hotel computers told her that. Haleigh smiled at the fact that they checked in using their actual names. They were staying in the Marilyn suite. Haleigh filed that information away as her elevator hit the lobby floor, and she stepped out, headed for the bar. She wasn't here for the Zaccharas… she only wanted to see one person right now. He was sitting at the bar, his back to her, talking to the bartender. She snuck up behind him, wrapping her arms around him and resting her chin on his shoulder, speaking in his ear.

"Now where were we? Oh yeah…. [whispering] angry makeup sex."

 

[Orion]

Hotel Roosevelt -- Tropicana

Claudia was getting ready to bolt, and he knew he'd been right. Too eerily right for her to want to stick around and talk about it. He understood… she was guarded. He got the distinct impression that she'd been hurt in the past by opening up. He smiled gently, taking a sip of his drink and not pressing the issue.

Claudia:"That's an interesting take on things, Zach. I will make sure to stop by the next time I need some psychotherapy. In the mean time… [she gives him a peck on the lips, he smirks a bit] If you change your mind, you know where to find me."

"Yeah… back atcha."

She was talking about him leaving Haleigh…. But his response was with an air of sincerity, and it was clear he was referring to her reconsidering his offer to talk about it. She made a clean getaway, and he didn't take it personally as he watched her leave. He licked his lips gently, then made sure to wipe off any residual lipstick she might've left behind with his napkin. The bartender was looking at him, as if expecting something.

"What??"

Bartender: "Aren't you going to go after her??"

"HELL no… I choose to live."

The bartender looked puzzled. Zach smirked and waved him off, as he took another sip. He felt a pair of arms wrap around his torso. What, was Claudia going to kidnap him and drag him off to her room and make him her sex slave? No… Haleigh was going to. Zach smirked, the bartender had taken up staring at him again. Zach winked at him as he rose from his stool, leaving money for the tab and a tip. The bartender seemed to be getting the picture. Zach gave Haleigh a relieved smile as he wrapped his arms around Haleigh and hugged her tightly before leaving the bar with her.

 

[Fusion]

Hotel Roosevelt -- The Penthouse Marilyn Monroe Suite

Johnny was occasionally off key, but Clara found it endearing rather than annoying, because every time he messed something up he sheepishly apologized for it. Soon the teapot on the stove began to whistle and they both remembered the hot cocoa.

Johnny: "Oh, I'll get it."

"I'll help."

Johnny: "Now the pouch says 'gourmet' on it, but I'd say it's a fifty/fifty shot of being that cheap crap."

"I'm sure it'll be fine."

Clara responds, opening the cabinets to look for cups. It was a nice little kitchenette, for a hotel room… but the spacing was a little bit tight and they were having to work around each other to get everything together. Clara poured the powder into the coffee cups, Johnny carefully filled them with the hot water. Neither of them seemed to notice the fact that they were standing so close together. Clara concentrated on stirring her drink and for a moment Johnny did the same… but then he broke the silence.

Johnny: "Can I ask you a question?"

Clara looked up at him. He usually just asked whatever he wanted to but right now he had this intense look like it was something personal, and that's why he was asking permission. Clara saw an opportunity of her own. If they really WERE about to die, she might as well find out if her sister was right about him.

"Sure, as long as I can ask you something in return."

He nodded in agreement, staring at his cup, taking a deep breath as if gathering the courage. Christ, what did he want to know?? The suspense was starting to get to Clara.

Johnny: "I was trying to explain to your sister that I wasn't really your bodyguard… you know, that you didn't need one, and really I was just hired for show… but I couldn't explain..."

Yes? JESUS John, OUT WITH IT! She thought, clutching her cup, her eyes transfixed on him.

Johnny: "Why did you bring me here?"

"What, to the hotel? [confused smile] Isn't that obvious? We couldn't leave you there alone, after--"

Johnny: "No, I mean why did you bring me here, to L.A."

Oh, that. She smiled softly, her heart beating a little fast. She blew on her cocoa a bit to cool it down, staring off into the distance. She knew he was watching her intently, waiting for the answer. Now was as good a time as any to be honest.

"You were the only one I didn't want to leave behind."

She finally looked up at him, making eye contact. He seemed to be searching for something to say. She spoke instead.

"My turn. My sister thinks… [trying to think of how to say it without sounding silly] Well, she suggested that you're… enamored of me."

Her turn to stare intently, waiting for an answer. They both seemed to realize how closely they were standing, but neither of them retreated. Johnny nodded, almost imperceptibly, then shifted his gaze. Clara's heart skipped a beat. Wow, when Claudia was right… she was right.

[gently] "Jesus, Johnny. Why didn't you say something??"

He shrugged, looking at the floor, his shoes, the wall, anywhere to avoid her gaze.

Johnny: "I don't know. I guess… I wasn't sure you felt the same way. I didn't want to make a fool of myself… and then things would be weird and awkward. I didn't want to… lose what we have."

 

[Siren]

Claudia watched with inviting eyes as Nicolas stepped forward; making a point to get as close to her as possible. He defiantely stated that he was a grown man and he would speak to whomever he wished. It was actually amusing how his teammates 'warnings' fell on deaf ears.....he should have listened to them.

Nicolas: ...admit it. You are happy to see me.

Claudia's coy smile didn't waver as she dropped her gaze from his eyes and allowed it to wander down his body. Blinking her line of sight back up to his eyes, she raised a single brow.

"You're a pleasent distraction."

Distraction from what? Claudia didn't say. Zach? Perhaps...Clara? Most definitely. Barbas? Absolutely. Shifting her eyes to the elevator's pannel of buttons, the respective floor's button blinked every time they reached another level.

"However, you have five floors to tell me what you want before we're greeted by my overly protective baby sister. [with a sultry smile, they pass another floor] Make that four.."

 

[Rampage]

"However, you have five floors to tell me what you want before we're greeted by my overly protective baby sister. [with a sultry smile, they pass another floor] Make that four.."

Nicolas stopped the elevator, diverting it to the floor three from the top as he produced the correct key card and had the concierge sign him in under an alias and pay for it with one of his corporate dummy accounts.

Remember when we first met?

Referring to her original indecent proposal to him.

Nothing so far has changed my mind, even your BADNESS. And so...

Nicolas leans forward, kissing Claudia deeply as he pulls her to him, lifting her easily off her feet as the doors open to their floor...

 

[Spellbinder]

apt. 4

<< in the large, spacious apartment 4 of Melrose Place, Morgan and Blaze giggled with glee and even danced around the living room to Britney Spears' Circus and then Womanizer. Morgan took a picture of her and Nicolas, hurling it to the floor and SMASHING the glass and frame with her high heel. How FITTING that just as she did this, Nicolas was slutting it up with CLAUDIA at the Roosevelt! >>

<< after a while, with some silly, whimsical fun and laughter the music changed to something quiet, serene...and chimes played in the air softly as Morgan and Blaze on the plush carpeted floor in the large living room. The Darkhold between them.>>

<< tinkerbell and the small fluffy white kitten were nearby laying together. the kitten was sleeping and Tink was looking sleepy and content. many candles of various sizes and heights were lit around the living room, providing a dark, yet cozy ambience.>>


I'm sorceress supreme! There's no reason why I can't contact my grammie and i don't need the help of some arrogant telepath to do it! The darkhold has been passed down my blood line since Hecate's time. all the hopes, the accomplishments, the efforts of the witches from then till now are here.

Now, close your eyes, and remain quiet and meditative while I call for Grammie!


Verna Eckert... Blood of my Blood
my great grandmother,
I Summon Thee
Beloved spirit,
we seek your guidance.
We ask that you commune
with us and move among us.

<< the blook flies open as mystic chimes play in the air. the pages flip and turn rapidly as a wind blows through the darkened apartment. but something is happening...something is WRONG! how could the spell be malfunctioning? it was the simplest of spells, ignited by Spellbinder and AMPLIFIED by the Darkhold as a beacon for Verna.>>

<< the space around them shakes and spins...and Morgan reaches out for Blaze.>>

Something's WRONG! HOLD ON!

<< the women are enveloped in a flash of light and TAKEN from Melrose Place!>>

 

[Seer]

deeper and deeper

<< people were taking chances, trying to recapture normalcy....when nothing about this time was normal. Nicolas left the relative safety of Melrose Place and Sharon, whom he was ordered to stay with by Alison as a condition of remaining with them. Haleigh left MP SECONDS before Morgan and Blaze disappeared from apartment four after a spell Morgan cast seemed to go WRONG.>>

<< Delilah and Alison seemed to be helping each other through the emotional fall out of Barbas' recent strike against them, while Mike did his best to comfort a distraught Karen in apartment 3. >>

<< it had been a bad night...but the worse was just beginning to come.>>

<< when would Nicolas learn NOT to defy the warning's of a precog? how fitting that Delilah acknowledged that more often than not, the six did not listen to alison...until it was TOO LATE.>>

 

[Spellbinder]

somewhere...

<< screams are heard as Spellbinder and Firebird apparently fell through a temporal barrier and came crashing down into a DARK manor (think the house from charmed) in the middle of a stormy night. the fell into the foyer.>>

Dammit! what the hell just happened!

<< Morgan gets to her feet, helping Blaze. Morgan notices that she's in her costume as well. looking around its dark, NO lights are on...only the moonlight from the stormy night sky outside provides precious little illumination and the lightning as well.>>

this place...

<< looking around for a moment as her violet eyes adjust. she notes the decoration, classic victorian design.>>

<< but what catches her eye is a photo on the wall along the stairs...>>

Grammie! this is her house! we're...

<< she hears a girl crying for help! it sounds so ANGUISHED!>>

it's coming from up the stairs! come on!


<< Spellbinder and Firebird rush forward but are immediately stumbled as the manor itself is stressed by a massive earthquake! The witch and the mutant stumble , with Morgan grabbing on to Blaze's hand.>>

Hang on!

<< light fixtures on the walls shattered and the presence of an ancient evil was in the chilled air. Morgan felt it all too well. but she pressed on...and the sisters helped each other up the stairs of the manor to the second floor.>>

<< up the stairs, and down a hall with multiple bedrooms. the darkness was strong with only the lightning piercing it every so often.>>

stay with me, Firebird...

<< they held hands...as the sister stalked the hall...listening for the sounds of distress...>>