Deadly reunions!

[MorningStar]

She sobbed, the flood of tears seemingly with no end, her body wracked with convulsions of grief. Suddenly, she heard a familiar voice. She picked her head up from where it had rested on her drawn up knees.

Karen…

She wiped her nose on the back of her arm and reached up to turn off the water.

Come out of there, Delilah...

Delilah found herself enveloped in a huge white towel, its softness actually comforting in a way. She sniffed loudly, wiping her eyes with the towel. She leaned against Karen, putting her head on the Doctor’s shoulder.

“He has them, Karen. God knows what he’s doing to them. And I stood there and watched him take them and I did nothing. NOTHING! They would have been better off I’d just left and never gone to Aerie in the first place.”

Her tears began to flow again, despite her best efforts at controlling them. MorningStar at this point was well and truly without hope, her light all but extinguished. She couldn’t survive losing Morgan a second time – and what were superpowers worth, if you couldn’t even save the ones you loved when they needed you?

 

[Shadow Weaver]

<< Karen's stern look softened as Delilah came out of the shower. the steam in the chamber couldnt hide the grief , the irritated eyes, the crying that the young woman had engaged in.>>

<< Karen wrapped a robe around Delilah's shoulders as Delilah wrapped the large towel around herself...and clung to the doctor.>>

<< Karen lead her out into the cooler sitting room of the suite...and sat down with her on the couch, holding Delilah and slowly rocking her.>>

shhhhh...

<< Karen said softly as she ran hand over Delilah's forehead....she continued to hold her surrogate daughter, slowly rocking her back and forth.>>


there was nothing you could do. we were...apparently ALL out of options at that moment. Alison did what she did to keep MORE of us from being taken.

<< she said softly.>>

The seer knew what was best. We may not have been able to win this round, but as Blaze said...the NEXT ONE will be a different story.

<< she sat there with Delilah, holding her and letting the woman work through her emotions, which in turn allowed the DOCTOR to acknowledge her OWN, outside of the ANGER she felt.>>

my baby...is in the clutches of a monster. I'm her mother...i did EVERYTHING i could to stop him from taking her and i did not succeed. It SCARES ME to think what could happen to her...but you know what? so far, my bond with her as mother and child has not revealed anything bad happening yet. That's something the creature cant touch. try as he may...and her psi screen keeps her from falling completely to his mental onslaught.

You're the sister Morgan never had...and now that this alternate Blaze is here...Morgan has begun to perk up a bit. I know if you could, you would have done EVERYTHING to save her...but none of us could win then. I...accept that now.

But the NEXT ROUND will be a different story. That creature will PAY. He will HURT like he's never hurt BEFORE.

<< she said sharply but still in a soft tone.>>

So don't cry, my child. Don't cry anymore. You rest...and gain your strength. We're going to get Morgan , Haleigh, Isis...and [hopefully] Nicolas BACK and we'll make the abomination who took them PAY for this.

DEATH will be too easy an option for himl. I will see to THAT myself!

<< and with that, Karen stands up with Delilah, once again comforting her, and helping her over to the bed. tucking her in.>>


You rest now. You've done all you could...and you're a good friend to Morgan. Everyone knows that.

I'll be back to check on you soon...

<< she hugs Delilah reassuringly and runs her hand down the side of Delilah's face...smiling a bit as she stands up and leaves the mutant to rest.>>

woe unto you, oh creature, if you think you have the victory. you will find out just how WRONG you are.


<< Karen was now in the hall...as she was making her way to Persephone's room, she stumbled...causing a vase on a nearby table to fall...

Morgan......

<< she felt the distress Morgan was in, as the creature confronted them, pushing Morgan and Isis against a wall and holding them there before leading Haleigh away. She felt Morgan's emtional anguish, her pain and uncertainty>>

DAMN him....

<< placing her head to her forehead...>>

Morgan...honey, Mommy's here...don't you worry. I'm coming for you. We ALL are and I promise you...he WONT get away with this!

<< she reached Persephone's door...and once again, she chose to open it instead.>>

Ava?

 

[Persephone]

:: Still sitting on the edge of her bed, Ava had her legs crossed at the kne and her elbow resting on top. Absently, she ran her fingers along her bottom lip shuffling through everything that had happened. Trying to remember if she had spotted a weakness in the creature...but there was nothing. She was so focused on rescuing Haleigh everything else was a blur to her. Sighing out, the goddess' thoughts were put on hold after hearing something crash in the hallway outside her door. Straightening her posture, Ava looked to the door with her brows lowered until finally Karen walked into the room. ::

"Karen..."

:: Realizing it must have been her who knocked the vase over, Ava was instantly concerned that perhaps the creature was trying to attack her or communicate with her in some way. Sliding off the bed, she began to advance toward the doctor, a look of concern now on her face. ::

"Are you alright? Is it him [Nicolas]..."

:: Her tone changed when mentioning Nicolas...for the worse. Everyone else, INCLUDING Alison, may have come to the realization that Nicolas needed to be rescued too, but Ava had not. She wanted him DEAD. Period. ::

 

[Silver Swan]

Hellfire Mansion

[ Sharon was the one who required the least amount of time to recouperate. due to her training with the Amazons, she was able to use her power to reconfigure her costume into silver head band, allowing her to shower and refresh her body. she cleaned, using VERY hot water...scrubbing herself.]

[ the mutate cleaned, refreshed and moisturized, before allowing the molecules of her costume to flow ounce again and reform into a silver tank top, hot pants and high heeled boots. she also wore what resembled amazon "Feminum" bracelets on her wrists. her blonde, silver streaked hair was pulled back into a upward pony tail.]

[ she didnt know what to do. she was so stunned...so ANGRY at what had happened. She would have TORN that damn mansion DOWN and brought it down on that creature's head if she could. She gave him a hell of a fight...and he STILL managed to take Morgan from her.]

I'll get him. I'll RIP HIS THROAT OUT!

[ her silver gryfalcons as the other pets of the six were safely hidden underground in the alien tech fortified vault with Pandora but she wished there were here now to keep her company. she felt so isolated. being back here in this mansion reminded her of a life that she no longer had, a family she had lost. and if the six were her new family, then losing Morgan and Haleigh was just like losing Kyle and Robert.]

[ she wasnt QUITE sure what to think of Nicolas now. She saw what he did to Isis. THAT was not the young boy or the young man that GUSTAV , his adoptive father, had raised. this NEW manifestation was unholy, intolerable..even for HER. She was VERY conflicted in her heart, which was still at its core...HUMAN. HOW could she be committed to saving Nicolas when it seemed that he WILLINGLY conceeded to this MONSTER who called itself his FATHER!?]

[ she paced back and forth, finally deciding that she couldnt be contained in this room anylonger and so she burst out into the hallway, slamming her door behind her.]

I need to DO SOMETHING!

[ there was no one around...and this long hall was similar to one of th ose in Arklay mansion. She almost WISHED a zombie would jump out...at least THEN she'd have someone to take out her frustration on.]

[ her perfect hearing allowed her to hear the heart beats of the others of the six, as well as conversations near by. She decided to go to Karen and Ava. ]

[ following Karen's breathing and heartbeat. Sharon quickened her pace when she heard a vase fall to the floor and Karen exclaim. she rounded the corner, but there was no one there but Karen.]

Karen...are you all right? I heard the vase...and you...

Karen: yes, Sharon...it's just that I felt...MORGAN. The creature is...is being brutal with her and i can feel what she feels through our bond as mother and child. I just wish i could...

[Sharon understood what it was to be a mother and to feel helpless or inadequate in that role...but just like Sharon's story, Karen too had to remember...]

I know. I know how you feel. I've been there...remember? and ultimately, I FINALLY got to do what i needed to do to set my son free. It wont come to that for Morgan. NONE of us will let that happen. Not to her...not to Haleigh...or even ISIS. but...ive got to be honest...

[ she looked to Karen and whispered.]

I dont know HOW i feel about Nicolas at this moment...I knew him as a young boy. a bright, charming young boy with such promise and as a young man much of that promise had been fullfilled. WHAT would his FATHER, GUSTAV say...about THIS!? it would BREAK HIS HEART! What if that creature IS h is REAL father...then what does that MAKE HIM?

Karen: I ...dont know, Sharon. We're going to have to wait until we meet with Alison and ...Diana later on. There's alot we havent quite figured out yet. I was just checking on Ava. Care to join me?

Sharon: Yes.

[and so, they prepared to enter Ava's room. Ava came out to check on Karen just then.]

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Hellfire Mansion- Ava's suite

<< once inside, as Ava expressed concern, Karen placed a hand over Ava's hand and shook her head to the negative.>>

No...it isnt Nicolas or that creature. It was Morgan. I felt her. The creature has hemmed her and Isis against a wall and lead Haleigh away from them. He's trying to harm Morgan mentally, but her psi screen protects her...its that same pressure..that headache inducing pressure that comes when a force tries to BREAK the wall.

<< Karen speaks with bitterness in her tone.>>

Curse him...and everything about him.

<< Sharon came in as well.>>

I just came in to check on you, after seeing Delilah. She's very upset. Everyone is. Sharon joined me in the hallway just now. Alison informed me that a meeting will begin soon, but she felt it NECESSARY for all of us to have time to refresh ourselves....if only for a while and as a doctor, I agree with her descision. We'd be no use to Morgan, Haleigh, Isis or Nicolas....if we were not recovered ourselves.

at the very least...Morgan and Haleigh are together. With Haleigh's survival skills and Morgan's indomitable will...they have a chance. I'm SURE that Isis will join them just as we have joined forces with the rest of the Sisterhood.

<< she was reasurring herself as well as Ava.>>

I'm here because...I know how you feel right now and I am prepared to do WHATEVER is necessary to get Morgan, Haleigh and Isis back.

<< strange that she felt more comfortable including ISIS rather than Nicolas but anyone who knew Karen knew that she too had a deep seated distrust of men thanks to Christopher and Nicolas [whether by force or not] had come to personify all those fears. Like Sharon, SHE was conflicted on that. But with each passing moment, she felt LESS afraid to admit to herself that she WOULD kill Nicolas if she had to do so to save Morgan , Haleigh...any of them from the brutality that He or the creature might try to bring upon them.>>

Sharon: She's right. We'll get them...They shouldve made SURE we were dead because NOW, its OUR turn to kill THEM!

 

[Black Widow]

It happened, simultaneously, remarkably fast and exhaustively slow. He kissed her, reeling her in... and she responded in kind, a floodgate of passion unleashing between the two of them. She leaned out over the edge of the pool, gravitating towards him. It was seamless when he pulled her into the water, and as she wrapped her arm around his neck, she realized there was nothing between them: she was stripped bare, both literally and emotionally; she could hide nothing from him and no longer wanted to.

"Nicolas..... you're naked. [she said coyly. then:]And so am I...."

She whispered, an eyebrow raised, her lips twisted into a mischeivous smirk. It was a scenario she'd fleetingly considered before, though THEN she instantly spurned the thought, scolding herself for having such desires for him... Morgan was her FRIEND. Her family. Something Haleigh wouldn't normally just throw away... especially not over a man. But then... Nicolas wasn't just any MAN either. Just give IN.... continuing to resist and suppress desire will only make it WORSE.... how long are you going to let yourself suffer at the expense of others? You think Morgan would do the same for YOU? She didn't so much as bat an eyelash when Sharon and Zach's affair came out. Hell... she sided with SHARON, with no regard for how that might have hurt you. She was willing to give up on you then... because of your 'malfunctions'.... she BLAMED YOU for it.

Part of her was a willing participant... a strong part of her. Her body responded as eagerly as his did. She kissed HIM this time... deeper even than before. Her heartbeat soared, her hormones raged.... She could feel his hands on her, caressing her softly... he was surprisingly gentle for someone so strong, and it sent chills down her spine DESPITE the steam surrounding them. Still.... something made Haleigh pull slightly away.... out of the kiss, but not out of his embrace. The passion was still there.... the love, all the emotions and desires she'd been denying herself but something ELSE was there too... familiar reservations. Inhibition that came not from her mind.... but from her heart. Her eyes closed, there was a soft crease in her brow... desperate ambivalence.... her breathing labored.

"Nic..... wait....." Why? haven't you waited long enough? what's stopping you NOW?

"Morgan...." So? She said HERSELF that she didn't want him anymore. Seems like he's ripe for the taking. Don't let him slip away. What if she changes her mind and they get back together? Then you'll have lost your chance. You know a little something about lost chances, don't you?

"I don't know...." Sure you do.... you know what you WANT.... and all you have to do is TAKE it.... it just takes one little word.... you don't even have to SAY it... just think it.... he'll hear. Well? Tell him what you want. .... what do you WANT?!

"I..... [looking into Nicolas' eyes..... searching. Now, more desperately:]Nicolas...."

She seemed to be mentally arguing with herself.... an AMPLIFIED internal struggle... torn between what she WANTED and what she knew was right. It was a particularly treacherous cruelty she was subjected to.... not painful, not overtly brutal... but exploitation was just as malign, maybe even moreso. If Haleigh were to see things as they were... if she were as objective as she was NORMALLY capable of being... she would have been deeply disturbed.... but the manipulation of her was so thorough, so complete... she was oblivious to it, and suspected nothing.... an unwitting marionette submitting not only to the merciless machination of the puppetmaster.... but victim to her own yen as WELL.

Every sigh, every kiss, every second was a seduction that overwhelmed her. She was slipping into oblivion, teetering on the edge of not caring at all about the consequences... and forgetting about the ones who would be hurt by this.

 

[Spellbinder]

in captivity

<< Morgan felt herself being pulled away...and pinned against the wall. but her sword would not leave her. it was something that remained CONSTANT and no outside influence could take it from her. but inspite of her strength and her power, she was unable to move, she felt sick with unchecked emotion...everything she thought when it came to trust...trust of Nicolas was being burned away. He may not have known that, and his "father" was underestimating the deadly consequences of the trauma that was being inflicted upon Morgan at this point.>>

<< she struggled for a moment as Haleigh protested, before being led away.>>

Don't LEAVE with him Haleigh!! He's the ENEMY! DON'T TRUST HIM!


<< but it was too late! She was gone.>>

ENJOY THIS WHILE YOU CAN! YOU'LL DIE SOON...I'LL SEE TO IT! AND SO WILL YOUR SON IF THAT'S WHAT IT TAKES!

<< Morgan's mind and heart CHURNED. Her desire to be FREE was only MATCHED by her growing RAGE. She could escape to Limbo, but what about those she left behind? The more she thought about it...the more upset she became. No doubt her MOTHER would feel the turmoil.>>

<< he's try to get into my mind, but he CAN'T. He'll pour on as MUCH PRESSURE as he can...it's like...being....touched against my WILL...by a MAN!>>

<< she shut her eyes, trying to get ahold of herself...and she looked over at Isis.>>

Isis....

<< Morgan bows her head and closes her eyes, focusing on the flame of her soul sword...whispering softly.>>



As my silver flame lights the shadow
And truth ends fear
Open locked thoughts
to my mind’s willing ear
May the light from my sword into
everywhere creep
Bringing Isis' voice/thoughts
to my mind in speech and mine to her's

<< swirling silver orbs flow between Morgan and Dominique, as the two women are now able to communicate with each other via the spell...still protected from outside "eavesdroppers". Now they can talk secretly..and better conserve energy.>>

telepathically to Isis: Isis, it's Spellbinder. i'm reaching out to you with a secret thoughts spell...please answer me. our lives depend on it.

 

[Isis]

elsewhere

[ This was intolerable. after all she'd done to reach this moment! And just like before...some unfair TWIST of fate and circumstance SAVED the miserable wretch!]

[ But it wouldnt be like the last time. it WOULDNT. She feigned unconsciousness, as she centered herself, her own magicks restored her body. She had the power of Isis and she was prepared to unleash the FULL FORCE of it to end this threat once and for all, but the time had come for her to look past her own desire for VENGENCE/JUSTICE. This threat encompassed the Sisterhood and the Six. If she were going to be TRUE to her desire to end the evil, she'd HAVE to accept help from them. It was BEYOND good and evil now.]

I swear that this abomination will be destroyed....even if i must PERISH MYSELF!

[ her bitter voice could be heard as Morgan reached out to her.]

Isis, it's Spellbinder. i'm reaching out to you with a secret thoughts spell...please answer me. our lives depend on it.

to Spellbinder: What do YOU want? had it not been for your team...and that meddling wench, Black Widow, I would have been able to STRIKE NICOLAS DOWN before it was TOO LATE!

[ Isis was aware of the spell though she was quite bitter and resentfull right now.]

I HAD HIM...and SHE interferred, she took away the precious moments that would have made ALL THE DIFFERENCE! Now he's FREE...he's FREE TO DO WHAT HE WANTS! My sister remains unavenged, the WORLD is at risk because of you and your foolish, STUPID friends!

 

[Spellbinder]

<< Spellbinder continued to remain still, with her eyes closed.>>

to Dominique: That's not FAIR, Dominique! We couldnt...we WERENT going to just LET you kill Nicolas...but honestly, right now NONE of that matters. This is BEYOND good and evil...and we need to TALK about this.


I need you to tell me...WHY were you after Nicolas? What is it about him that drove you to want to KILL him like that? It was MORE than merely you being evil and he being good. I could see that. TELL ME what it is Dominique! Only by working TOGETHER can we help protect each other, and FREE ourselves from the captivity of this MONSTER!

<< the two women, from outward appearence seemed to be very quiet and still. the soul sword provides the only light in the dark place they are in.>>

 

[Isis]

[ the NERVE of this upstart! it didnt MATTER if she were the "daughter of Hecate"...she had AIDED in hindering Isis in the destruction of NICOLAS!]

to Morgan: why should you care now? you foolish, interferring upstarts didnt even head your own Harbinger's warning and now I'm supposed to feel some sort of..."SISTERHOOD" with you simply because of this circumstance?

you have DOOMED US ALL! You and that...recycled trash can, Black Widow!

[ the avatar was CLEARLY bitter...HATEFULL. She hated HERSELF for failing at what she felt was HER DESTINY. She would trade all the power, the glamor and the success she had since becoming "Isis" if she could JUST destroy this bastard demon seed and avenge her sister. That was all she REALLY wanted.]


*sigh*....I dont know what I can do now....

[ Isis did have a spell, one that was worthy of addition to the darkhold. but if she activated it, not only would she destroy Nicolas, but her OWN body would be lost in the process as well. But she would rather DIE than be here now. She WOULDNT be anyone's pawn.]

I promised my sister that her death would be AVENGED, and I was chosen by Isis, the goddess of rebirth , to be her avatar. It will NOT end here..not like THIS!

 

[Firebird]

Control Room

Firebird watched closely as Mike, nothing but a mere human would argue with a powerful witch and Seer?! Blaze shook her head in disapproval but she did not comment, allowing the two to bicker and express themselves freely. Even the fire elemental had to give the big titan credit for having the courage to stand up to Alison, speaking honestly and passionately. He obviously cared deeply for Nicolas. Blaze’s mind lingered to her sister, Haleigh, and Isis. She was worried about them but a part of her knew they were all resourceful women who had been in a tight bind before.

Turning her attention to Shadow Weaver, who seemed to be registering her words. Blaze could see and feel the woman was shaken up. Reaching her hand out to squeeze’s Karen just as she shut her eyes tightly. Stepping closer Blaze wrapped her arms around her to offer her a bit of her own natural warmth and affection in the form of a hug. “We will figure things out when we cross that bridge TOGETHER. But in the mean time just try to calm down, breath, and clear your mind. It won’t do us any good if we’re all at each others throat.” She was mainly referring to Alison and Mike. But the two would argue and Karen would play mediator between them while Morningstar provided the worm hole to the Hellfire Club.

Malice’s hospitality and warmth had shocked even Blaze who had mostly stayed in her room upon their arrival. She had showered and changed into her battle uniform but her mind and her heart had been troubled. Troubled enough that even she needed a reprieve from the drama, the danger, and the worry that bled through her green eyes. Departing from her room Blaze would descend down a hallway to locate a large in ground pool. Even though fire was her natural element water tended to soothe her worried mind. Sighing deeply she stripped out of her battle armor as it slipped off her svelte form as she stood nude. Stepping onto the white diving board she walked towards the edge as she’d raise her arms into the air. Twisting her body into the air as she’d tuck her arms underneath her. Her body making a faint splash when she hit the cool water. She’d surface with a gasp, brushing her long chocolate locks to slick them back. Turning she’d swim along the pool just as Mike was on his way to confront Alison. Alison’s eyes would pop over by the pool side but Blaze had swam under water just as her words echoed through the empty pool room. She’d surface as she moved swiftly along quickly. On her world, Blaze had been training for the Olympics as a swimmer when everything went to hell. Swimming along the pool lulled her worried heart just enough to keep her sanity and replenishing her own fire power. Blaze knew they would find and locate Morgan and the others soon enough. The splash of the water would drown out Alison’s words, which would serve to delay the two women from speaking.

Moving to the side of the pool she brushed back her wet hair just as Alison’s words fell on her ears. “Alison?!” Noticing the cobalt blue eyes she climbed out of the pool to grab a towel. “I’m on my way.” She moved along towards the locker room where the showers were situated, quickly rinsing the chlorine off as she changed into her battle gear. Pulling her wet hair up into a slick pony tail she hurriedly moved out and down the hallway towards the control room.

Blaze walked right in as she noticed Alison seemed to be struggling with emotional pain, guilt that Mike had originally made worse. She turned towards Mike, “Mike, would you excuse us, please? I need to have a word with Alison, in private.” She’s wait until he was gone as she turned to gaze at Alison.

“Sorry about the delay I needed to clear my head so I went for a swim. What’s up, tell Dr. Phil everything.”

 

[Harbinger]

Hellfire mansion

:: Harbinger continued to sit very still, not lifting her head until Mike was gone. After Blaze had FINALLY arrived ::

talk about johnny come LATELY

well. It certainly took YOU long enough to get here.

:: without lifting her head just yet, she waved her hand that was resting on the table, a rushing chiming sound was heard as a chair slide over and bumped Blaze into sitting down. Alison's way of chiding her for being so late.::

Mike was here...attempting to make ammends. This is the second time.

:: her voice seemed a little hoarse and weak.::

I grow tired of it all.

:: she looks up, finally, her eyes a little strained from tears.::

You're "new" here, but if you were apart of the Six in your time, then I can tell you're NOT new to the concept of so many people IGNORING the seer's warnings before its too late.

:: she sits back in her chair, exhaling.::

Everyone is upset, hurt, dismayed. Until just a few moments ago, I was freefalling in despair.

The ironic thing is...even though I'm a precog, I either truly CAN'T or DON'T WANT to see a solution that INCLUDES saving Nicolas! part of me HATES him now...for what he is...for what he is doing to Morgan, Haleigh...even ISIS. I blame MYSELF for not seeing it sooner, but that creature claiming to be his father...it is not of this world, not remotely. Not even of this TIME.

I'm torn, because it falls to ME to lead, to make the right descisions, but my personal feeling is that...he should be destroyed. We SHOULDNT have gotten in Dominique's way and yet, how cruel it must seem...that i would condemn Nicolas, someone who risked his life to save Karen, and even myself and Ava before.

:: she looks at Firebird.::

If Haleigh were here, she'd be screaming at me, most likely accusing me of reverting to my "OLD WAYS"...but in this instance...I don't know that i CARE!

If i give him the benefit of the doubt, I may be compromising the safety of others and if I don't I'll be considered a murderer by some of the people we save! How can i ...HOW can i do this RIGHT, without giving in to my instinct to KILL HIM for what he's done to Morgan and the others? If i do that...I could hurt Morgan even further, IF she hasnt already turned on him by now and what about Mike?

:: Alison thought she had it all figured out, but she was now admitting that she DIDNT!::

The meeting will be in another hour, Blaze...and i'm honestly at a LOSS right now.

 

[Persephone]

:: Karen try to reassure her that they would get Haleigh and Morgan back. But Ava didn't need reassurance; she would stop at nothing to get them back. They WOULD succeed or she would die trying. Remaining quiet as Karen and Sharon spoke on the topic of Nicolas and what was to be done about him, Ava chose to keep her opinions to herself. Walking past them as they conversed, the goddess grabbed her black knee high black stiletto healed boots and sat down in a near by chair to put them on. Slipping her foot into one of the boots, Persephone already made up her mind that Nicolas would die tonight regardless of what the team wanted. Zipping her boot closed, she slipped the other one on before closing that one as well. ::

"We should meet with the others."

:: Ava stood from her chair, wanting to get down to buisness rather than chit chat about how angry or upset everyone was. The longer Nicolas and his father had Morgan and Haleigh, the stronger the chance of them getting hurt. Walking past Karen and Sharon, Ava opened the door and exited her suite. ::

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Hellfire Mansion

<< Karen noticed Ava's abrupt departure. It was obvious where HER mind was. >>

<< She and Sharon stood for a moment.>>

But, Ava, the meeting is not for another hour. we need to give Alison time to properly prepare as well.


<< Karen walked out into the hall after Ava, and Sharon followed.>>

I just checed on Delilah...she's not doing well, but I believe she will be ready to join us when the time comes. I imagine Malice and Enchantra are doing whatever it is they do here...

<< still thinking in the back of her mind how surreal it was...to be a GUEST in the mansion of two of her most deadly enemies.>>

But you can't disturb her right now.

<< Karen could more than identify with Ava right now. Her daughter..and Ava's sister were in the clutches of a monster, but now was NOT the time for Ava to CLOSE OFF.>>

<< Karen spoke sternly.>>

and you CAN'T close us out. Do you think that will make it any EASIER? it won't. Do you think that will bring you any closer to saving Haleigh? that none of US want to save her as badly as YOU do? THINK AGAIN!

<< the doctor's recent change in personality and countenance made it easier for her to call people out, forgoing the more elgant and subtle approach she was known for.>>

Whatever our disagreements, whatever our fundamental differences, Haleigh, at her CORE, has always been a woman who believed in honor, loyalty and friendship. She may have infuriated me more than once...but how many times has she BEEN there when it counted? did i EVER REALLY have to fear for my saftey or Morgan's in her presence. NO. NOW , BOTH of them are in danger, by someone who, at best, was a young man trying to find a way to fit in and fall in line but never quite seemed to get it right with you or with Alison.

She and Morgan are ALL each other has right now. I pray to the goddess that it is enough for them to survive until we can GET to them. but in the meanwhile, YOU need to STOP pushing US away. It has NOTHING to do with Nicolas, who MOST of us are TERRIBLY conflicted about...and EVERYTHING to do with us needing to be on ONE ACCORD. The power of the WHOLE is ALWAYS stronger than the sum of its parts Ava. You knew that before...its time to REMEMBER It now.

ALL of them are held captive by this creature...this evil THING that prides itself on causing pain and terror. IT thinks it has us BEATEN! Well...IT will soon LEARN. We will ALL show IT...TOGETHER!.

<< Karen made SURE to not acknowledge the creature as anything MORE than "IT" , to do so would give IT more place than she felt IT deserved. It was below the scum of the earth...a VIRUS that needed to be IRRADICATED! and there was no doubt that beneath the desire to save their loved ones, was a desire to rain violence and destruction down upon IT!>>

 

[Firebird]

Control Room

“Oh zip it, Miss Thang. I’m here that’s all that matters.”

Playfully she would swat the air around the Seer just as a chair slide over. Immediately sinking down to cross her legs together while her hands rested on the table. Carefully she took in Alison’s words, allowing her to vent all of her frustration out to her. Silently noting the teary eyed woman, who seemed stressed from recent events.

“First of all Alison, its OKAY to feel that way. Nobody expects you to be super woman or like a machine. I know that under that marble facade is a woman who has a heart and who can feel. With that said if you dislike Mike then that is just fine with me. This team has a lot of strong-dominant personalities, yourself included. Now, let’s look at Mike for a second...which I really haven’t gotten to know him like that. But what I have seen he is a decent guy who seems to care about everyone. BUT, I think he may be blinded by his friendship with Nicolas because of their friendship and their history together that he is AFRAID to accept the truth. So...in a way he looks to you for answers or at least place his aggression some where. Unfortunately he’s placing that aggression with you. Which isn’t the greatest idea but let’s not forget he is new to this team just like me so he WILL make mistakes. He doesn’t truly know you like the others because in many ways you project yourself with this cold-bitchy disdain around you. To some people that can be threatening or even intimidating.”

Blaze paused trying to see all sides of the argument for the sake of hearing Alison out but also keeping Mike’s feelings in perspective as well. “Alison, I’m not from your world but I understand the dynamics of relationships. Yes, my teammates and I were foolish to ignore the warnings of the Alison on our world and for that we paid the consequences. I’ve grown and matured through time and I’ve come to RESPECT the warnings of a Seer, yourself included. Not everyone wants to accept what you see. That’s NOT your fault though it is there own destiny for choosing how to react to such visions.”

Even from her close proximity, Blaze could see Alison struggling to keep herself together. Quietly crumbling in the privacy of the control room and the company of the fire elemental. “Everyone is upset even I don’t have to be a precog to understand that. They’re all entitled to be upset because the people they love and care for are missing even Malice, who I never thought I’d see the day. But even she is human too just like the rest of us.”

Swiveling in her chair to turn to face Alison more, resting the palm of her hand on her cheek to rest. “There will come a time when you won’t want to save everyone for your own personal reasons such as distrust or your own gut feeling. Again, that’s fine BUT besides the obvious events that have taken place why do you feel that way? Could it be because in some bizarre way Nicolas reminds you of your brother, Cameron? Cameron was hot headed, cocky, and Haleigh also felt extremely bonded to him. I know you dislike Nicolas for obvious reasons like I said. I’m not gonna sit here and candy coat the truth either, Alison, because you’re a grown woman. But...what I can say is that your NOT alone in how you feel. I’m torn as well because I want to save him but a part of me also wants to heed your warning. I have to be realistic as well to the possibility we might not be able to save him.”

Shaking her head, Blaze reached across the table to take Alison’s hand in her own. “Listen to me, Al, and listen good because I’m only saying this once. It is NOT your fault and don’t you dare believe what anyone says about it, you get me?! I have recently developed the ability to have premonitions, which honestly it scares the HELL out of me. I don’t know how you can handle being a Seer for the visions you see, especially when they are grim. But what other people on this team may not comprehend is that you cannot control your visions. They come and go like night and day. There was nothing you could have done sooner. Maybe this was meant to happen even if the stakes are not in our favor. The important thing to consider is that we pull together as a team.” Squeezing Alison’s hand to accentuate her point.

“Haleigh is not here and I’m not her, I’m me and Haleigh is the last person who should be screaming to you about reverting to her old ways. On our old world she reverted to her old ways when she lost Zach and Nicolas. She pushed me away who was like a sister to me which hurt me for I had opened up to her, I was there for her. Haleigh had reverted back to being nothing but a cold-hearted, living-breathing machine. There are times when even I want to have nothing to do with anyone because its easier to face the world and keep myself protected. But I learned that it doesn’t solve the problem...it only delays the process. You could revert back but the problem would still be lingering around.”

Blaze scooted closer to the Seer until she was right beside her. “I don’t have those answers, Alison, YOU do. You must look inside yourself and find them. I can only guide you in the right direction and offer moral support. I think for right now we should TRY to save him because of the good he has done and what he means to Morgan. IF we cannot find another alternative to saving him then we must do what is right...even if it means killing him. Morgan knows how difficult that can be but she understands and deep down so does Haleigh. Our main objective is to get Morgan, Haleigh, and I can’t believe I’m saying this but Isis too. Nicolas will be harder to get through because of the rune on his chest. Isis is the key to this whole situation because of her connection to Nicolas and his father.”

Blaze released Alison’s hand, “As for Mike I think that underneath it all he’s a decent guy. He did fight hard today along side of us. Even YOU have to give the guy some credit he did well for a human. Karen also sees something special in him too and you see the power and passion she wields. Both Morgan and Karen follow their hearts even under there icy disdain for men. In a way you’re just like them, Alison. Except Morgan and Karen have allowed love in...you block it because of your troubled childhood.”

Blaze smiled, “I really need to stop watching Dr. Phil, that guy is such a freak.”

Jesting to lighten the seriousness of the mood. “But all in all Alison its okay to feel the way you do and I’ve never blamed you for anything. Although I did blame Haleigh earlier...but that blame was misplaced because I was frustrated and I couldn’t handle it. I was just looking for someone to blame and I used Haleigh as a scapegoat. Mike is no different from me and I think you know that. He just wants answers...he wants his friend back. Just as you want Morgan and Haleigh back safely. We ALL want the same thing even the Sisterhood. It is that common ground that makes us united. I think that with this truce we can make considerable progress in succeeding on this mission.”

This alternate was definitely stronger emotionally and physically and it showed as she comforted Alison. A woman who for years has been the ‘guardian’ for others. But it was time that someone else looked out for her benefit and had her back. That person was Blaze, a woman who had the uncanny ability of seeing all sides of the coin.

 

[Persephone]

:: Walking down the hall, Ava heard Karen and Sharon come out of her room and explain that the meeting wasn't for another hour. Rolling her eyes shut, an hour? Do they know what could happen in an hours time? Turning around as Karen began to yell at her for closing herself off once again, Ava stood there with an even expression, listening to the doctor speak to her with such direct and blunt words. It seemed since her encounter with the creature, Karen had changed a bit as well. ::

and you CAN'T close us out. Do you think that will make it any EASIER? it won't. Do you think that will bring you any closer to saving Haleigh? that none of US want to save her as badly as YOU do? THINK AGAIN!

"I'm not closing anyone out. I'm staying focused on the goal. I'm TRYING to keep my mind busy so I don't start thinking about what that THING or Nicolas are doing to them. If my reaction isn't to your standards Karen, then I apologize. But I REFUSE to become an emotional wreck right before we go into one of the biggest battles of our lives. I need to stay clear headed and focused. I'm not pushing anyone away; I know our best shot at defeating this thing is if we all work together. What I am doing is coping with the situation the best way I know how, okay?"

:: It took everything for Ava not to snap at Karen, even though she knew the doctor was only trying to help. But with everything that had happened to her, then THIS, Ava was teetering on the edge of reverting back to her old self....and not that cold bitchy person the six first met in Limbo, but the version of Persephone that had gotten her banished from Mount Olympus thousands of years earlier. Ava knew if she didn't keep herself in check she would be walking down a very dangerous path soon enough. ::

 

[Shadow Weaver]

<< as on the edge as Ava felt, Karen could easily MATCH her. the doctor folded her arms as her perfectly shaped eyebrows lifted, revealing one of her trademark glares.>>

Don't get flip with me, Ava. We are a team that is being shelted by our DEADLIEST enemies. Truce or NOT, I would be FOOLISH not to keep an eye on the rest of you while Alison does what she can.

The goal you're focused on is a SHARED one. And considering your less than HEALTHY response to attempts of therapy both conventional AND mystical following your LAST trauma, It would be irresponsible of me as this team's DOCTOR to NOT make sure you arent retreating.

You don't have to like it. You just have to DEAL with it.

<< the changes in her since becoming "shadow weaver" were apparent. as the doctor's sapphire blue eyes sparkled with a colder, more domineering edge. But Ava wasnt the enemy and Karen wasnt looking for a fight. Just as Ava had her mechanisms, so did Karen and in Karen's case it was to tighten down and CONTROL. >>

....

I'm not here to pick a fight. Like you I just...I just have to find a way to keep from losing myself. You'll never know the pain a mother feels when her child is taken from her and no matter how OLD Morgan gets...she'll still be my little girl.

<< she softened her expression.>>

Just keep yourself alert around here. Malice, so far has appeared to be a woman of her word...but don't go too far. Alison will summon us when it's time.

<< and with that, Karen moves past Ava, touching her arm and making her way down the hall.>>

 

[Rampage]

Unfortunately for them both, Nicolas no longer could control himself. He was weakened by the rune and dominated by the figure, who had used them both to make this moment. But still Haleigh hesitated...

In many ways, she was his best friend, a confidant that had kept him sane and in the fold with this team. Out of everyone, only Haleigh seemed able to stand with him, no matter what. The figure made sure that the errant thoughts of everyone were known to Nicolas as it suited his purpose, and the young metahuman believed that if they got to him, he would surely die. it was in this spirit that he spoke to Haleigh as she hesitated.

If you wish to leave me as well, I...understand. It appears that a family was not my lot in life after all, but I hope that when I die, you will never forget me. I did my best, but it was never good enough. I am sorry to taken up your time.

Nicolas kisses Haleigh again deeply, then prepares to leave her embrace...

 

[Black Widow]

That's it... you've lost him.... rejected him... he's leaving. You'll loose him forever.

He began to pull back, and Haleigh was overrun by emotions still lingering from the LAST man who left her behind. She couldn't let THIS one slip away as well... she feared she'd never be happy again. A silver necklace appeared around his neck, and Haleigh took hold of it and pulled him back again, kissing his lips, his cheek, his jaw, whispering in his ear as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders, her legs around his waist.

"No.... don't stop.... don't leave."

After everything they'd been through... and in the face of everything to come... Haleigh seemed to sense that Nicolas thought he was at the end and she didn't want anything left unspoken... all of their circumstances, their obligations... melted away... there was nothing left but the two of them and that was fragile enough already.... they needed to make it stronger. She wanted it to be stronger. She spoke to Nicolas mentally.... they didn't need words.

I don't want you to go.... I want you to stay. Stay with me... be with me. You're good enough for me.... you'll always be good enough for me.

 

[Spellbinder]

[ the NERVE of this upstart! it didnt MATTER if she were the "daughter of Hecate"...she had AIDED in hindering Isis in the destruction of NICOLAS!]

to Morgan: why should you care now? you foolish, interferring upstarts didnt even head your own Harbinger's warning and now I'm supposed to feel some sort of..."SISTERHOOD" with you simply because of this circumstance?

you have DOOMED US ALL! You and that...recycled trash can, Black Widow!

[ the avatar was CLEARLY bitter...HATEFULL. She hated HERSELF for failing at what she felt was HER DESTINY. She would trade all the power, the glamor and the success she had since becoming "Isis" if she could JUST destroy this bastard demon seed and avenge her sister. That was all she REALLY wanted.]


*sigh*....I dont know what I can do now....


I promised my sister that her death would be AVENGED, and I was chosen by Isis, the goddess of rebirth , to be her avatar. It will NOT end here..not like THIS!

<< Morgan continued to remain still...with her head bowed and eyes closed.>>

to Dominique: LISTEN to me DAMMIT! I KNOW you're angry...BITTER. I KNOW what that is like! I've BEEN there.

I'm the daughter of Hecate and you're the avatar of Isis! with all the magick in this room, we should be able to do SOMETHING, but...you've got to tell me what your grudge against Nicolas was.

<< unaware that Haleigh was violating her trust UTTERLY [though she was being coerced], Morgan continued.>>

our lives depend on you COOPERATING with me...at least for NOW. So tell me what is going on and we can come up with a plan to destroy this creature and set ALL of us free!