Dischord is in the air

[Spellbinder]

D.C.- the cafe

<< Morgan took Delilah's hand in her own, smiling at her best friend and so thankfull that it was SHE that Morgan was able to reveal her migivings in front of without looking like a weak moron.>>

<< Delilah confirmed what Morgan was secretly feeling as well. that running to Alison now or for every time there was uncertainty would not be fair to Alison and it WOULD be a "crutch" reflex. Morgan would not allow herself to go down that road.>>

you're right. once again. you confirmed what i was thinking.

<< putting her other hand over her forehead, she turned her head and noticed some young men watching her from across the room. did they realize who she was, inspite of her sun glasses? it wasnt often that a woman dressed head to toe in versace and escada came into a quaint little place like this.>>


I'm glad you're here....the longer i was in that room with Cameron, with everyone, i felt myself getting increasingly dizzy and almost SICK with the need to GET OUT and get AWAY.

It's OBVIOUS that there's some tension between Haleigh and Cameron. I remember how "well" they took to each other even back when the team first came together. Cameron was such a slut...sleeping with Alexis and courting Haleigh at the same time..i even caught him checking ME out when he thought i wasnt aware.



Seeing Cameron reminded ME just how much the team has CHANGED in its roster!

Shockwave, Tempest, Bane, Prophet and now Guar..Harbinger. we've had quite a few people come and leave and come again but now, Haleigh and I are the ONLY "originals" left.

<< squeezing Delilah's hand.>>

I'm GLAD you accepted my offer to join the team. We needed you...I needed you here and you've been FANTASTIC. We have Nicolas and now Ava finally seems to be getting comfortable in her "skin" as well. She's DEFINATELY stepping up in the role of Haleigh's sister and that, i think, is really going to do Haleigh some good.

She's been used to being the solitary rock for so long...but even a ROCK can be erroded by elements and the passage of time.




<< looking over to the clock.>>

I imagine Alycia will be along shortly. Then we can get out of here and talk about business in a private area. I can only take being in THIS place for so long...

<< Morgan and Delilah had different tastes in many areas, but their friendship was as enduring and strong as ever prooving that differente doesnt always mean BAD.>>


Do you think Nicolas will get along with Cameron? it's been a while since we've had TWO men on the team lol...let alone ONE that lasted any length of time. '

 

[Rampage]

The Parthenon

Nicolas smiled as he thought to himself for a moment. were they an item? He shook his head. NO. Not yet. Morgan had too much baggage to commit to him at this time unfortunately...

So next question loverboy...why are you trying to woo her then?

His mind quickly engaged in an exercise he had performed often. It helped him in business, and he was utilizing it here. This is where he would play his own Devil's Advocate in his mind, argue against his current course, and see what happened.

So you are trying HARD to woo an emotionally unavailable woman who has no faith in men at ALL. Meanwhile, she is not averse to being violent against men yet would find it to be an especial affront if a man were violent against a woman NO MATTER THE PROVOCATION. She has dropped things for you to scurry over and pick them up with a giggle yet proclaimed World War III because you playfully ordered an omelette AFTER she offered breakfast to you in her own home. You have lost face with half the females you have met since joining this team in an attempt to win her affections. And for WHAT? Not for love or devotion or sex or intimacy or even trust, for that matter. She is unsure if she wants to screw you or push you away and will easily project both in the same moment. She scolds you like a child and holds her affections over you like a carrot while you chase after her in a way that is neither dignified nor fair. When has she EVER chased you? Would she? And still you work for her favor...Oh, and she is a ticking time bomb that would kill friend or foe alike, maybe the only woman on this planet capable of killing you, in your case. If she were a stock, you would have lost your shirt by now but at least you would have sense enough to SELL.

Nicolas answered Cameron's question.

NO. We are only friends. There is a flirtation, but that is all. Maybe one day but not today.


Nicolas changed the subject quickly.

Tell me more about yourself. I must know as much as I can about any man that tamed both Haleigh and Alycia, if you are distinctive for no other reason...

 

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah scoffed at the question of whether Cameron and Nicolas would get along. ]

"I think they both are sufficiently deficient in testosterone to be best of friends..."

[ Anticipating Morgan's chastisement, she answered her more seriously. ]

"I'm sure they'll get along fine. They probably have a lot in common."

[ She took another small sip of her coffee. ]

"As for Ava, I think our trip to Greece - as traumatic as it was - was good for her. I spent the morning hanging out with her and we got along quite well. She seems to be opening up to us, finally. And it's good that Haleigh has her as she's going through this thing with herself, and Cameron..."

[ She set her mug down and looked directly at Morgan. ]

"And for the record, I'm glad I joined the team too. For a long while I didn't feel like I fit in here...but now, I don't know where else I would want to be."

 

[Artemis]

from the diner to the limo

:: at the moment, as Delilah reaffirmed her feelings about her team and while Alycia had suddenly become the topic of discussion among the MEN of the Six back in NYC, Alycia HERSELF arrived at the table of Delilah and Morgan. Looking rather incognito with black rimmed, designer sunglasses on and a black trench coat with the belt tied at her waist, Alycia smiled a bit.::

hello ladies. Glad you could make it

::as Morgan and Delilah both greeted her and she slipped into the booth next to Morgan, she quickly ordered a cup of coffee and allowed them a chance to make conversation for appearence sake. but after about 15 minutes, Alycia looked at her watch::

well, its about time for that meeting, we can take my car.

:: waiting out back behind the dinner, a sleek, black limo boosted with covert security features to ensure privacy was prepared to drive Morgan, Delilah and Alycia on a seemingly leisure ride while they discussed and so, after settling the bill, the three women left. Alycia out of one entrance, Morgan and Delilah out of another, and they met around back and soon, off they went in the limo. now sitting in the plush, spacious luxury cab in the back of the limo::

So, now we can finally discuss things. what's up?

:: Alycia said with curiosity, noticing that Morgan too was wearing designer sunglasses.::

 

[Spellbinder]

DC- the limo ride

<< riding in the push limo, Morgan smirked at Alycia.>>

well i see your new position doesnt AT ALL encourage you to spare any expense.

<< resting her white versace purse on her lap. it was good to see Alycia again and life with the fed's seemed to agree with the woman who was looking sharp and toned..yet still feminine.>>

It's good to see you again Alycia, but i'm afraid i have news that will bring more headache than joy.

<< as they rolled along, Morgan paused for a moment. she knew that the news by itself wouldnt be a shock for Alycia, who had seen more than most of her colleagues in the pentagon could dream of, but there was other details that WOULD more than shock..they would INFURIATE her.>>

Cameron King, aka Prophet of the Six is ALIVE. He has been returned to us as of yesterday. Ororo herself delivered him to Haleigh and we all encountered him at the six. It IS him..there's no doubt about that but now of course comes the obvious and DIFFICULT time of transition and possible reintegration back into the Six.

You were the executrix of his will and estate Alycia and i know enough about the law to know ther are extreme legal consequences if it is revealed that a person "faked" their death, not to mention the reaction of those who are WATCHING US to try to get ahold of evidence to expose us for who we really are....and this could impact you...if it is believed you participated in fraud. I knew i had to contact you as soon as we found out about this...before something happened that was too hard to explain.

<< exhaling for a moment.>>

there's something else too ...Cameron's journals were found by Alison and it contains some rather shocking entries...alleging that you and he had some..."hot and heavy" moments with each other during the initial construction and notarizing of his will.

<< Morgan knew Alycia would be furious with this. that man was a slime bucket in her eyes and that he would GLOAT about whatever MOMENT they had in the heat of passion, she knew Alycia would be PISSED. She had NEVER mentioned this and the six only found out because of the journals.>>

now OBVIOUSLY we (delilah and morgan) are not concerned about that last part...but i think we...you and I BOTH know that Cameron is probably running his mouth to Rampage about it...as males tend to do and Haleigh is obviously going to be upset about it.

<< Morgan paused..she couldnt help but smirk>>

you know, alycia...you're probably one of the ONLY baseline normal humans that has caused Haleigh this much distress...

 

[Artemis]

the limo ride

:: Alycia takes a moment to lean back into the deep leather seating in the limo cab. it WAS a nice ride.::

well, my department deals with all the things the government would disavow to the general government..yet at the same time they are trying to find a way to "compete" with the super human phenomena. typical american politics bullshit but if i'm gonna be involved, i'm going to enjoy whatever level of comfort that i can.

:: Alycia seemed a bit more jaded in this position than when she had first taken it. clearly she'd been going through ALOT and the tone of her voice betrayed a level of exhaustion.::

too bad it doesnt help me to get more than 5 hours of sleep..if THAT.

::as Morgan revealed her news, Alycia remained silent for a moment. the sunglasses helping to promote the seemingly BLANK expression on her face as if to say... "AND?"::

....well it seems that the rules of mortality never apply to the SIX very long...do they?

:: a hint of bitterness..as Alycia still thought of her own father, who died beacuse of MysTech's willfull neglect and while many others she'd known to come and go...HE, a truly good man, remained DEAD. CAMERON was BACK.::



::Alycia's face contorted with agitation.::

it FIGURES...that slippery EEL would find a way to escape even DEATH but not until AFTER he caused this little problem of..what shall we call it...FRAUD!? OTHER people dont have the luxury of being rescued by otherworldly beings...or through OTHER supernatural means...

:: Sitting up as she flailed her hand.::

has he been stupid enough to go out into the open? trying to use his name like it MEANS something again? or maybe he's done what he ALWAYS did to get to the top and used his psi powers to control people like PUPPETS! avaricious DICKHEAD!

:: Alycia spoke with hostility.::

I cant BELIEVE IT!

I can't BELIEVE that macho PIG wrote about me in his journal like i was some sort of PRIZE at the end of a gauntlet!

:: her indignation rose by the second.::

WHERE IS HE!?

:: She had more than a few words for him.::

When I'm done with that nympho numbskull...he'll wish he HADN'T come back from the dead.

:: getting on her cellphone to her personal executive secretary, Alycia barked into the receiver.::

>>i need to go to New York City IMMEDIATELY to attend to urgent business. clear my schedule for the remainder of this week and make SURE that i'm not contacted OR disturbed unless it's by my security advisor or the president himself!

:: slamming the phone shut, Alycia punched in something on a small counsel in the limo's side panel.::

Morgan, Delilah...if you don't mind. I'd like to travel with you back to NYC via stepping disc. once the limo reaches its destination, we can leave then....this means i'm going to have to deal with that robotic rambo, Haleigh TOO...TERRIFIC!

:: of course this meant that she'd be in close proximity with HALEIGH, but Alycia wouldnt stop for this woman...not this time. After the incident with Delilah's father, Alycia had produced a weapon capable of rendering Haleigh inert for a prolonged period of time via a concentrated EMP. she would now be carrying that weapon with her as well as alerting her operatives in NYC of her arrival on a secure channel. Morgan and Delilah could only watch as this woman, who seemed to be buring the candle at BOTH ENDS in this new position was now preparing to "rampage" right into Cameron..and WOE unto anyone who defended him at this point.::

 

[Spellbinder]

D.C.- the limo

<< Morgan sat back as Alycia gradually exploded with agitation and irritation. The woman seemed far more disjointed than ever before and Morgan wondered if she was feeling well.>>

<< there something BEHIND her seeming irritation with Cameron's being returned from the "dead". it wasnt the same as with Haleigh...there was BITTERNESS in her remark about the six cheating death..and it hurt Morgan a bit.>>

<< Alycia then railed against Cameron having detailed the "moment of passion" shared between himself and Alycia before his death. She was totally offended and could only IMAGINE who he had ran his mouth to. The woman didnt like to be seen in a way that would detract from her image and it showed. While Morgan wasnt even considering condemning Alycia, she COULD empathize with how the woman felt at this moment. having a secret exposed like this...and she didnt want Alycia to hear about it from anyone else which is why she mentioned it NOW.>>

<< still , the reaction..the way she ranted...it was all pronounced. looking at Delilah as Alycia barked into her cellphone and angrily typed on her counsel, Morgan sighed.>>

well...THAT went well..

<< as Alycia stated she wanted to travel with them via stepping disc, Morgan nodded.>>

of course Alycia. we can arrange accomodations for you at the Parthe....

<< turning to Delilah again...Morgan faltered as she suddenly remembered that CAMERON was there.>>

 

[Black Widow]

Haleigh seemed resigned to agree as Karen talked about Alycia.... but it was easy for the doctor to see a lot of tension and frustration between Haleigh and Alycia.

"I KNOW she does.... [have a right to know] that doesn't mean I have to LIKE her involvement. But you know how we get around each other... she acts like I programmed Master Mold MYSELF.... like I'm IN LEAGUE with Mystech.... like I'm one of their projects or some such nonsense. [huffs with annoyance] Whatever.... I don't care.... I told her how I felt already... and she just stood there with that stupid constipated look on her face. If I had KNOWN telling the truth would have so little effect on that scrappy, slandering slattern.... I would've just SAVED MY BREATH and avoided making a certified FOOL of myself."

She said, looking more than a little resentful. Karen had many things to say about Haleigh's admissions.... most were both validating and encouraging, and all were insightful.... Haleigh's spirits seemed lifted by the end.

"So.... in other words.... I'm NOT going crazy? " She said, laughing tensely, as if it WERE something she worried about. Still, the idea that her memories could impose themselves not only on HER, but through her link to technology, on OTHERS as well was unsettling.... and as sad as her last memory of her father was.... there were still more painful things in her past that she would rather not think about... Haleigh flicked her hand towards the door ala prue [], opening it.... she caught the sound of Zach's voice....

Zach: "--well really... it's not that I don't TRUST him.... I just don't trust him with HER."

Haleigh elected not to comment.... for all she knew, they might not have even been talking about Cameron [though they WERE].... and it was never wise or polite to jump into a conversation in the middle. Instead, she called for them to come back... as she and Karen weren't saying much that couldn't be shared anymore.

 

[MorningStar]

well...THAT went well..

[ Delilah opened her eyes wide and gave Morgan a look that shared the sarcasm. She looked out the window of the car. She didn't mention that Alycia getting "whatever level of comfort" she could meant taxpayer dollars down the drain... But having your personal life out there for all to see definitely did suck. ]

of course Alycia. we can arrange accomodations for you at the Parthe....

<< turning to Delilah again...Morgan faltered as she suddenly remembered that CAMERON was there.>>

[ Delilah's head snapped back around to Morgan as she couldn't believe Morgan was about to suggest Alycia stay at the Parthenon. Grasping for a quick recovery Delilah picked up Morgan's sentence. ]

"Uh, um, I'd be happy to have Alycia stay with me in my guest room, I have plenty of room - it would be no trouble at all."

[ She gave Morgan a look that said "that's the best I could come up with" and shrugged. ]

 

[Prophet]

Parthenon Lounge

:: It took awhile for Nicholas to come up with the answer and it had him convinced that there was way more levels to that relationship than anyone would ever know. When Nicholas changed the subject, Cameron let him and a smile came across his face when he mention Alycia and Haleigh. Taking another sip of his beer, he continued. ::

"I wouldn't say TAMED any in any sense of the word. Alycia was a moment of.. I have no clue, let's just say when that woman wants something, she WILL get it.. and Haleigh. That is the stuff that defines the word "unrequited". It makes me crazy and now she is getting married to that son of a bitch Zach, which everyone tries to to tell her that she is doing the right thing and that Zach is good for her, but I know she is settling.. I mean, that is all I can really say, i mean it's complicated, but I will tell you, I have it bad for her.."

:: He wanted to say so much more but he figured that is was better left said to Haleigh herself and he couldn't even say how he really felt about Haleigh to Haleigh so how the hell could he tell Nicholas. He was done with beer for the night. ::

"Look, knowing Alycia and DEFINITELY knowing Haleigh, I wouldn't be surprised if they are somehow don't already know what we are talking about, and I would like to keep my skin for the time being. Whaddya say we call it a night? Thanks for the drink."

 

[Persephone]

:: After having a rather nice conversation with Zach outside in the hallway, the conference doors opened and Haleigh called them both back in. Stepping into the room, she closed the door behind her and made her way back to the conference table. Opting to stand this time, she rested her weight on one leg and folded her arms across her chest, awaiting instructions of what was to happen next. ::

 

[Seer]

and so

<< the day wears on, past the afternoon and into the evening. what started off as the first attempts of various members of the Six to try to move on a bit after Alison Marble's departure turned into yet ANOTHER reminder that their lives are anything BUT normal and now, the complexity of their lives and how connected they are is about to go deeper.>>

<< even as Cameron bids Nicolas good night, Cameron begins to see how difficult transition is and that returning to earth so fast was not the walk in the park he imagined it to be. Nicolas showed just how he felt about his situation with Morgan prooving that while still a young man, he DID have feelings and that his transition into the Six had been FAR from easy. Morgan and Delilah returned to New York with a fuming Alycia. No matter where Alycia went or what she became, her life would ALWAYS be connected to the six in one way or another. She was unique among humans, standing her ground and holding her own in the midst of super powered beings but in the end, she was ultimately "just human" and as the bitterness in her heart about HER father not getting a second chance while everyone around her seemed to treat death as a stint in rehab more than a finality, SHE would have the chance to express just how she felt about all this and then of course there was Haleigh, who, after an impromptu session with dr. victoria managed to find a calm center...for now at least. Ava and Zach joined the doctor in the conference room as they all prepared to try to get on with their evenings. there was nothing more to do at this point but cool down and wait for the next day.>>

<< Haleigh's world as just BEGINNING to unravel and Cameron's return was the first sign of just how OUT of control she would find herself. no therapy, no self diagnostic..nothing would prevent her from going through what was inevitable...especially if those in the shadows had anything to do with it.>>


the cell

<< deep underground, the suits watch their live feed of Haleigh on the plasma screen...each of them thorough irritated with the meddling of Dr. Victoria.>>

suit 1: Christopher could NEVER control that woman. no wonder Malice was so able to easily seduce him. He was WEAK. She's stronger and more resourcefull than we initially thought. reports indicate that she cast a spell strong enough to destroy the Super Soldier during the Blackout fiasco.

suit 2: with HER around to provide IT with a constant helping hand and buffer, we won't be able to keep it off balanced and disoriented for very long.

suit 3: then we must increase the manipulation. it already begins to display signs of doubt and confusion. the doctor's assistance merely provided a temporary buffer. we can do MORE than merely cause memory feedback, we can also bring about "discomfort" (headaches, spasms and MORE memory feedback of tragedies from the recent past and it's hidden past). The doctor will be hard pressed to keep IT in check for long and if she believes it is a danger to the rest of the team, SHE will do whatever she feels is necessary to CONTAIN IT.

suit 1: << showing approval to this train of thought>> and if the doctor diagnoses it as being a threat to itself and the others...the rest of the team will pull back from it, leaving it PRIMED for the taking by US.

<< the suits all nodded with agreement as they watched Haleigh on the screen.>>

<< bring about more dischord and confusion within her internal systems and cause her to appear more erratic, the PERFECT way to cause the doctor to suspect she's a danger and thereby drive a wedge between HER and the team.>>

suit 1: increase the manipulation of the subroutines to bring about "night terrors" involving her most tragic moments..beginning with MASTER MOLD and the subsequent fall out between herself and Alycia Barnett following the discovery of her link to the cassadines.

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

as night falls

<< Doctor Victoria bids Ava, Zach and Haleigh farewell for the time being, as she leaves to wait for Morgan. They intend to go to dinner together with Nicolas. NICOLAS may have had doubts, but Karen couldnt have been happier to see Morgan and Nicolas find their way together, SHE knew that things like this took time and Nicolas would just have to remain patient and not worry so much.>>

<< Delilah and Alycia were now back at Illustra with Morgan, arriving in the crystaline lobby. Haleigh would register the fact they arrived and thus, another tense moment was about to form. Nicolas was arriving at Illustra at the same time as well. good thing too, as he might be the only one who could keep Alycia and Haleigh apart >>

<< and even as THIS begins, so too does a night of extreme discomfort for more than one person in the six.>>

<< the fallout of cameron's return continues to be felt and WE WATCH>>

 

[Spellbinder]

back @ Illustra

<< a crash of thunder heralds the opening of a stepping disc in the center of the crystaline lobby in Illustra. Morgan, Delilah and Alycia emerge and the disc closes.>>

<< as the echo of the thunder fades, Morgan looks around for a moment.>>

the place is still standing, and there's no alarm. my mother must have been able to help haleigh calm down and cameron took his cue to stay at the parthenon for the rest of the evening.

<< looking at delilah and alycia.>>

of course now, we may have ANOTHER catfight brewing.

<< sighing as she finally took off her sun glasses, it looked rather silly to wear them this late in the evening.>>

Alycia, I know you and Haleigh have some deep seated issues with each other...but PLEASE try to take it easy with Haleigh okay? She's going through a major situation right now with Cameron's return..different than the obvious one that both she and i are having. Before Alison left, she told us at the Parthenon that you and Haleigh WOULD resolve your issues in the "near future"...perhaps this is that time but since i'm not a precog...i'm not going to try to pick up where Alison left off on THAT...just please, dont attack Haleigh needlessly. Let's just try to get through this as peacefull as possible.

<< she hated having to say that to Alycia. Alycia was a long time friend of her's, one of her "home girls" and Morgan did not want to take sides in this situation between them. haleigh had done some rank things toward alycia and alycia nearly destroyed haleigh's life on more than one occasion..it was a volitile situation..and Morgan hated to see BOTH of them going through it.>>

<< looking at Delilah.>>

10 to 1 the first thing Haleigh brings up is the revelation about Cameron and Alycia.

<< rolling her icy violet eyes.>>

Why do men ALWAYS have to DOCUMENT these things like it will MATTER in the future? its as though he didnt already get ENOUGH action with Alexis, Haleigh and any OTHER wide eyed bimbo on EITHER coast before he joined the Six?

<< looking at the elevators over to the left, it was clear that Haleigh, Zach, Ava and the doctor must be on their way down to the lobby to meet them. and then, from BEHIND, in the circular drive way around the outside office park, Nicolas's driver, Mike was pulling up to drop HIM off as well.>>

well...stand by for round 2

<< Morgan didnt want to sound so sarcastic, but she couldnt help it. the six were caught in a NEVER ENDING cycle of drama it seemed. there were only BRIEF periods of calm. in her mind though, she secretly looked forward to going to dinner with Nicolas and her mother.>>

 

[Artemis]

Illustra's lobby

:: Alycia suddenly found herself in Illustra's main lobby. it was as grand as she remembered. She hadnt been back here since she last left to accept her CURRENT position on capitol hill and now, to be here again..she couldnt help but want to see what became of her space on the 99th floor.::

:: she secretly felt like she was "home again". realizing how much she missed the business and social scene of NYC and how OUT OF TOUCH being on Capitol Hill had made her.::

:: she looked around for a moment herself before turning to face Morgan and Delilah. She had accepted Delilah's invitation to stay with her in her luxry apartment, but the question remained why Morgan faltered when she nearly suggested the Parthenon.::

:: Morgan asked Alycia to please take it easy on Haleigh , to which Alycia immediately exhaled with annoyance and tossed her raven black hair back.::

Oh come on Morgan! You make it sound like I'M the bully. that woman has made a LIFE of bullying and plundering, then covering her tracks. the only time she recoils (like a roach) is when a LIGHT is shined on her to expose her for WHO SHE REALLY IS.

:: Morgan continued and Alycia stopped herself. Delilah would notice that so far this evening, Alycia seemed far more disjointed and agitated than ever before. something was REALLY bothering her and her standing hostility towards Haleigh was not really what was going on at the moment. in Alycia's own mind, what Haleigh had said to her at the Parthenon after the situation with the Pontiff begun to come back to the forefront. Haleigh had been so genuine and HONEST about her feelings on the situation between herself and Alycia and for Alycia, a woman who ALWAYS had something to say, to just STAND THERE with a look of dismay on her face...it was a serious drop of the ball on her part and she knew it then...she knows it now. it is one of the things that allows her to settler herself. ::

I understand how delicate..how difficult this entire situation is. I already feel a bit nauseated to be quite honest with you. This man betrayed my trust and confidance and now he's BACK. I have MUCH to say to him.

:: which was nothing compared to just what she would DO when she saw him :fdevil: ::

I'm not here to fight with Haleigh.

:: shaking her head as she noticed the lights from a limo driving up the circular drive. the last time she saw something like this...was the day when HER limo came for her to take her away to her new life.::

 

[Rampage]

Illustra

Nicolas took his leave of Cameron and walked to his car. As he sat in the back, he thought of his inner musings about Morgan. Did he really feel that way? NO. Not really. There were a host of mitigating circumstances that made the whole situation more palatable to him.

Regardless of the problems they have had, Morgan had always been receptive to him overall. On a team where some of the women wouldn't know a good man if he walked past them, Morgan did seem to see the value of him to a degree. It was just the damn distrust that he was finding hard to deal with. But he was hopeful that it would improve eventually. It had better...

As Mike came up the circle to drop him off, he saw her inside. THAT was the reason. The real reason that he put up with what he would from no other woman was because he FELT differently about HER than any other woman. Alycia was desirable and smart and Haleigh had an animal magnetism and a wit he loved, but they weren't HER. Ava and Delilah? He wasn't even sure if they liked men at all, they seemed much better at dissecting them literally and figuratively than loving them. Alison? She was very special indeed. But in the end, he put up with things and worked so hard because it was HER. Morgan. The Spellbinder, and he couldn't give up on her just yet...

Nicolas stepped out of the car and saw the ladies assembled in the lobby. Smiling, he nodded to Delilah and Morgan as he grasped Alycia's hand softly, speaking to her.

I see that Capitol Hill has done you well, Alycia. It is good to see you. I do hope that you will be with us for longer than last time, we have missed you.

Nicolas let go of Alycia's hand and smiled at Morgan as he located Dr. Victoria's gift in front of his door. He looked at the sorceress as he spoke to her.

So, are we still on for tonight? I have put away "the package" and everything is secure.

 

[Spellbinder]

the crystaline lobb

<< As Nicolas entered Illustra, Morgan absentmindedly tucked some of her blonde hair, styled in a perfect front swooped bob, behind her ear. She was happy to see him. Amazing that she would EVER look forward to a MAN ...especially one on her team. Try as she may, she couldnt deny there was a change in her when it came to him but would this make her less intimidating to others? would her friends think she was "going soft"?>>

<< but she couldnt wonder for long because there he was. Standing with Delilah, she watched him as he entered and suddenly wished she had NOT removed her escada sunglasses. they allowed her to stare without being noticed.>>

<< it was obvious that Nicolas was attracted by Alycia's presentation but Morgan was not jealous at all. She always liked Alycia's kick ass personality and sense of style. In another time, Morgan would have recruited Alycia as a model for Illustra. She , like Alison had a model quality about herself that she never realized.>>

<< after he greeted the special agent, he asked her about this evening.>>

<< in an icy voice>>

Yes. everything's a go. My mother is looking forward to an evening out. She doesnt often go out because she doesnt like being by herself out at night.

<< after all that her mother had been through, Morgan couldnt blame her. sometimes SHE herself felt almost AGORAPHOBIC about leaving Illustra.>>

As long as Alycia and Haleigh don't try to murder each other. Alycia will stay with Delilah tonight. I was going to put her at the Parthenon but then i realized who was there...

<< Laughing with a hint of uncertainty as the elevator lights indicated the others were coming.>>

Cameron is okay at the Parthenon I assume, since you're back earlier than we expected?

 

[Artemis]

Illustra

:: In comes Nicolas. as yummy as he ever was before. it was hard to believe a man this handsome could be as intelligent OR as ...seemingly chivalrous as he was..but was it an act? Alycia had her doubts about his sincerity but the background information on his father, not to mention Sharon Kelly's link and Ororo's recruiting of him...and everything that had happened SINCE his arriving to the six had caused her to soften her stance on him.::

:: she trusted him, respected him and ...even LIKED him for who he was. not something she gave easily to people she dealt with. and he was damn good looking too. even if he was intended for Morgan, Alycia ALWAYS found a way to get her looks in without being noticed.::

:: as he took her hand, she received his friendly greeting with grace as she nodded her head and raised up her hand within his.::

hello Nicolas.

:: she said in a softer tone, having calmed down a bit in the past few minutes after Morgan's plea for her to be nice to Haleigh::

Capitol Hill has its appeal, but being back here...i think i realize that i prefer the NYC skyline to the marble halls of the pentagon.

:: relating to him was easier now. he was one of the team. part of the family. she could trust him NOW.::

So, i understand we have a returned member of the six in the vicinity.

:: gritting her teeth as she spoke.::

I simply can't WAIT to give him my regards.

:: Alycia's thoughts were almost VENOMOS when it came to Cameron at this moment. He didnt know how LUCKY he was not to be in Illustra at this moment but there was something else too...there was bitterness and sadness churning in her mind as well. images of her father..and the feeling that he should be the one allowed to return instead of Cameron.::

 

[Black Widow]

Haleigh checking the readouts of the diagnostic scan, seemed both pleased and relieved.... nothing appeared to be wrong... all systems were nominal and aside from residual emotions and an ever so slight headache, she felt much better. Talking to the doctor had done quite some good.... just GETTING it out there and not worrying about the consequences of what she might have to say was theraputic enough to soothe her. she was still encumbered with having to deal with Cameron's return but a lot of stress about it had been allieviated and she was one her way to acceptance. She pulled off the transmitting discs and pulled her shirt back on.... and offered to walk the doctor down to the lobby... she sensed Morgan returning and thought it would be nice to reassure her other teammates that she was doing better... and let them know that the diagnostic came back clean.

As they traveled towards the elevator, however, Haleigh picked up the presence of a new entity... a familiar one.... Alycia. Haleigh grit her teeth.... she REALLY would rather not have to deal with Alycia right now.... WHY did Morgan have to bring her HERE tonight??! Nonetheless.... Haleigh was never one to back away or avoid a conflict.... and now was no different. She was GOING to share the good news with her FRIENDS... and if Alycia had anything SMART to say.... well then she'd just have to DEAL with her appropriately! Haleigh tried NOT to focus on that... she wanted to have an enjoyable night.

"I don't really feel like going OUT... but Ava... how would you like to join Zach and I for dinner? I promise you won't have to watch us make out the whole time... you know, like that ONE TIME you invited me and then you ended up sucking FACE ALL NIGHT with that one boy and left ME with nothing to do and no company to speak of?"

Haleigh teased, as they stepped out of the high speed elevator and into the lobby... where the rest of their number, plus that other woman, waited. Haleigh showed no signs of acknowledging Alycia's presence at ALL.... just marked satisfaction.

"Well... I'm happy to say that I'm doing just FINE... nothing to worry about. A little bit of relaxation and I'll be my old enigmatic self again."

 

[Persephone]

:: Laughing out at Haleigh's remark about one of her past dates, Ava stepped into the elevator with the group, shaking her head with a smile. ::

"First of all, that man was gorgeous. And secondly...I can't help if I have a certain, facade about me that makes men go wild."

:: Shrugging one shoulder up 'cutely' as she commented about men going wild for her, she grinned before agreeing to join them for dinner. ::

"Of course, i'd love to."

:: After a few moments, a soft 'ding' was heard in the lobby of Illustra as the elevator carrying Ava, Zach, and Haleigh, opened. Stepping into the lobby, Ava looked toward the numerous doors leading outside, seeing it was already night. The day seemed to fly by. With her healed boots tapping rhythmically on the marble floors, Ava approached Morgan, Delilah, Nicolas and Alycia. Noting Cameron wasn't among them, Ava commented. ::

"Well my evening just became a bit brighter. Living dead boy isn't here."

:: Ava's voice was coated with a distain and sarcasm. Glancing to Nicolas. ::

"Thank you for that, Nicolas."

:: A very rare moment indeed, as Persephone was actually civil to Nicolas. Although her thank you wasn't chipper or happy in any way. More standoffish...but still, a thank you nonetheless. Looking to Morgan, Ava's eyes shifted to Alycia for a moment, noting her less than enthused facial expression, before returning her attention back to Morgan. ::

"With King staying at the Parthenon, and Haleigh feeling better, are there any other pressing issues we need to addess?"

 

[Artemis]

Illustra

:: there they were. Haleigh, Zach, Ava and Doctor Victoria.::

full house i see...

:: she remarked cooly as the group came close. Alycia locked eyes with Zach and Ava as the did with her. she nodded to them both .::

Zach, Ava.

:: whatever her new found familial relaitons to Haleigh, Persephone owed her smooth transition in assuming the identity of AVA to Alycia..making sure there was no scrutiny on the part of any Greek or American authorities. Alycia was confident that gratitude and sense would keep Ava from going out of her way to be disrespectfull. after all, the problem between Haleigh and Alycia had begun LONG BEFORE she joined the team.::


::but just as Haleigh didnt acknowledge HER, Alycia abruptly turned to Dr. Victoria and greeted HER and completely ignored Haleigh as well. the two women shaking hands.::

Dr. Victoria. Nice to see you again...with no monsters breathing down our necks.


:: sometimes it was better to listen first and THEN make comments and so, As Haleigh delivered news about "feeling better", Alycia made a quiet note. Haleigh spoke of "Returning to her usual enigmatic self" to which Alycia almost BURST with the effort to resist the urge to snipe away.::

:: feeling Morgan placing a hand on her shoulder as if to REMIND her of their little talk from earlier, Alycia simply folded her arms . casting a glare of annoyance at Morgan.::

:: as Ava remarked about Cameron. it confirmed her suspicions as to why Morgan didnt want to place her at the Parthenon. She knew where he was and boy he was he in for a WORLD of pain when she would finally lay eyes on him but for her now her eyes were MORE than sick of the sight of Haleigh, who looked more and more appealing as a target in the center of a scope in Alycia's imagination right now.::

:: Ava asked if there were any more pressing issues and Alycia once AGAIN could have said something but Morgan seemed to be on her game and gave her shoulder a light squeeze as if to say "steady Alycia." Alycia simply smirked as she held her tongue all the while making sure to glare at Haleigh.::

repulsive insect.