Enter: Master Mold

[Spellbinder]

Fast Forward:
<< back in NYC. the Six and their allies have returned. Senator Sharon Kelly and DA Alycia Barnett have returned to their lives, Dr. Karen Victoria has once again returned to her loft office to resume her practice and the members of the Six have settled back into Illustra. For the time being, media scrutiny has passed...but anti mutant/meta human sentiment is thicker in the air than it ever was before. The members of the Six now have to be even MORE carefull to hide their true identies...even those who are neither mutant or meta human.>>

<< following a series of HEATED debates between incumbent Sharon Kelly and challenger William Stryker for the senate seat in New York. there has been MUCH publicized controvery over Sharon's outspoken support of mutants/meta human's rights as well as her call for a full scale federal investigation into the goings on of MysTech following a series of barely explained mishaps and disasters around the city and abroad. Sharon is a Democrat, while William is a Republican and in this mid season election....there is definately a wind of change blowing across the Congress.>>

<< today is election day and each member of the Six is left to ponder the possibility of Sharon losing her seat to William...and with that..much of the clout that she has enjoyed and used to a TRULY GOOD effect...but she has demonstrated her honor and strength of character...a true testimony to women everywhere.>>


<< at this moment, Morgan sits in her crystaline office..the command center of Illustra. watching news feeds and having attended every political debate to support Sharon. Alison is seated near by at her own desk watching the same feed.....>>


This mid term election...it is dripping with controversy and urgency...all over the country. the winds of change are blowing and if Congress does go through a change...this may be the break we need to help get the FEDS to finally scrutinize MysTech's operations.

Ironic isnt it? we wouldnt hesitate to use our magicks or your precognition to influence the outcome of a battle....but we have made such a conscious effort to stay out of this political process...Sharon is an honorable, capable woman...she doesnt need our help to win this.

 

[Silver Swan]

fighting the good fight

:: Sharon steps out of a limo...flashbulbs from legitamate photographers began to go off in rapid succession as Senator Kelly strides forward..surrounded by Clandestine Inc. Body guards. one of whom escorts her personally on the arm. reporters are clamoring for a statement from Sharon regarding her initiative to have MysTech corporation audited by the IRS AND the SEC and to launch a full federal investigation. a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the country and prompted a quick and rather hostile political and public response by large corporate subsidiaries of MysTech...and some of the politicians who personally have funded the company's efforts here and over seas.::

Reporter: SENATOR KELLY!! Is it true that your definate support of mutant/meta human rights goes beyond a mere humanitarian motivation?

:: Sharon and her bodyguards make their way to the steps of office before turning around to address the reporters.::

Sharon: I know what you are getting at, and to answer your question...yes that is very true. My son was born a mutant....but was not given the chance to learn and grow....he was murdered...since that time i have made it my business to insure that i use my position to help ALL people be able to live their lives FREE of scrutiny and the fear of violence and brutality. America is sick with racism...and it extends to MORE than just skin color prejudice. Its a sad irony in the face of a land that touts being the "land of equal opportunity".

::more reports began to rattle off...before one is heard above the others::

Reporter: Senator Kelly, youve taken a hardline stance on the subject of MysTech...which is arguably the most powerfull commerical entity on the planet. You've called for a muti front audit by the IRS AND the SEC as well as a full scale federal investigation to the rumored bio techonology experiments that have been circling in political and law enforcement circles for decades.....you also say there is clearly a link between MysTech and their seemingly limitless funding and more than one member of congress and the current administration. your strong charges have been met with MUCH resentment and criticism across the board...are you afraid this will hurt your chances for victory over your charismatic opponent?

::Sharon exhales...while Clandestine Inc's top of the line body guards tighten their formation around her at all sides...ready to defend her against ANYTHING...knowing that this next topic is so hot button...there could be an assassin lurking anywhere::

::Sharon:: : part of the problem of politics in this country...especially in RECENT years :: restraining herself from pointing out the current administration in particular:: is that most politicians talk a good game. Duping the public to achieve the goal of a seat but knowing that their TRUE goal is to line their pockets. My motivation from the very beginning was my son and apparently people have seen my intent and THAT is why they voted me in the first time. I stand by my position on MysTech which in my mind has gone unchecked as a commercial entity for years and has more "hands in the cookie jar" than an octopus does tentacles. It's time that we reigned them IN before they began to influence our government any MORE than they already have....a government that is supposed to be "by the people, for the people"....not "for whomever has the most money to throw at them"

:: some of sharon's supporters around the area IMMEDIATELY began to cheer loudly in support of this woman who doesnt pull her punches at all when it comes to hot button issues. She stands tall, elegant and beautiful. No one there save Clandestine Inc would know what horrors she has endured even BEYOND the political battle field or her strong ties to The Six....which has now become a group dangerously close to being labeled "a band of out laws".::

::Sharon:: ladies and gentleman of the press, thank you for taking the time to ask me for my thoughts on these matters again. It is always a pleasure to address those that i represent here in this beautiful sprawling metropolis of NYC. rest assured that while some OTHERS may talk a good game...my actions have spoken just as loud if not LOUDER than my words. I will see you all tonight as the final leg of this election race begins!

THANK YOU!

:: with that..she makes her way inside her office in the courthouse....with Clandestine Inc and NYC's finest now locking down the perimeter and securing the area. Sharon's supporters cheer and reporters capture what lasting images of they can. all of this is broadcast live...and everyone..including the Six have just seen her speak.::

 

[Black Widow]

Haleigh waited for the pilot to power down the chopper before getting out and walking across the helipad atop the roof of Liquid Crystal Images. She now appreciated her chopper even more... it allowed her to avoid being bombarded by the more persistant reporters, some of whom were STILL in front of her building, hoping to get Haleigh's take. Haleigh realized how dangerous ANY comments on her part-- or on the part of ANY of the Six, were at this point. A most unfortunate consequence of their involvement in the courthouse incident, they had all been photographed and TAPED leaving the scene with Alycia Barnett, and Haleigh had been captured on film both appearing on the scene AFTER the chaos began AND being SHOT fleeing the scene with Barnett and her fellow companions. Thankfully, the camera crew had been distracted by a final round of gunfire between Haleigh's men and some overhead snipers while Spellbinder came out and the vehicle disappeared, so THAT at least hadn't been videotaped... or else they would have had some serious explaining to do. As soon as Haleigh stepped into the elevator her LCI assistant came on over the intercom.

"Miss Davidoff, a detective from the NYPD is here to see you... he's been waiting for quite some time. He says he MUST speak with you, and refuses to leave until he does."

Haleigh looks at her watch, calculating the idea. She pushes the button for her office on the top floor of LCI, instead of her office in Clandestine Intelligence. "I'll see him... put the press coverage of the Senate Elections on in my office and lead him in... I'll be in momentarily."

Haleigh swept through the hallway with poise... there wasn't a trace of emotion whatsoever, there was certainly no indication that she knew the ill fate of two people around her... her assistant greeted her and she politely responded, as she let herself into her LCI office. The detective stood and spoke immediately... he looked to be in his late twenties and a little too anxious to get a collar.

"Hello, Miss Davidoff. Detective O'connell. I'm--"

Haleigh raised a hand, cutting him off, buttoning the blazer of her white Stella Mccartney suit as she sat down and gestured toward the lowering flat panel monitor. She is just in time to see Sharon Kelly adressing the press on the courthouse steps. The two watch until Sharon excuses herself, and then the volume on the monitor lowers, seemingly by itself. Haleigh herself is moved by the speech. She had always been a supporter of Sharon's, she believed the senator had true values and a backbone of immovable steel. The young detective was the first to break silence.

O'connell:"You think she'll win?"

Haleigh nods and turns her attention to him. "There's no doubt in my mind. The government needs more women, more people like her. The senate should BE so lucky as to have her among them. Alright detective... what can I do for you this morning?"

Haleigh asked, her mind wandering to what Alison was doing... she hadn't had the heart to ask Alison exactly when it would happen... and now she wished she had. O'connell got right down to the point.

O'connell:I'm here investing the incident at the courthouse yesterday.... you were seen there... reacting in such a manner as to suggest you might have known something was going to happen."

Haleigh sat back in her chair, folding her hands in her lap and thinking carefully over her answer... she needed to tread carefully here... a diplomatic and side stepping response would be best.

 

[Foxfire]

Benighted eyes sweep along the frenzied of press that swarmed Senator Kelly. A pair of midnight oval sunglasses obscuring those penetrating eyes, which carefully studied the Senator's body language. Wasn't she so confident? Frost was about one hundred feet from the press and Senator Kelly. But she was more so incognito than anything, due to her family's brutal heritage.

Blinking her eyes, she sucked in a breath casually. Her eyes raking various officers and other political officials. That usual jet black locks was pulled into a tight sleek pony - tail. And the dark leather jacket tightly framed around her petite body with the collar flipped up to obscure some of her face from view. A pair of lightly faded denim jeans worn to blend some like a chameleon with the dark colored suits surrounding her. It was a beautiful day for a political speech, even the air was crisp. And the sun blazing down on the reporters and the general public.

Leaning against a small park bench, Jasmine resembled something of a security agent as her hands were hidden inside her jacket pockets. Her demeanor cool and collected but something caught her eye. Why exactly was she here? Good question, after her parasite incident back on the yacht, Jasmine was returned to normal. The parasite now dead and gone and the mutant herself. She was simply spectating this event - she felt it was better to view in person than on broadcast television. She also wanted to double check the security here, Jasmine did respect the Senator. They both suffered a loss which was mutant related.

The reporters camera is what had shimmered in the sun's rays but it was not a hazard. A black stretch limo pulled up and out walked a strong muscular man whose suit was obviously Italian and immediately Jasmine felt her stomach turn - one of the Kleins men. Anthony Klein - her cousin. She recognized that awful taste anywhere not to mention that greasy black hair.

"Lovely."

She remarked with sarcasm as she pushed her weight off the bench. By now, the Senator moved inside the building. Anthony moved in that direction as Jasmine stepped in his line. He stopped short with a glare in his ebony eyes. His form was only 5'9, yes a short man indeed. He locked eyes with a pair of dark sunglasses.

"Can I help you?"

He asked impatient with a bit of a strong New York accent. Jasmine's lips curved into a smile with a nod. Her pony - tail bouncing as she did, "you sure can Anthony." She remarked coldly before closing in on him. His eyes went wide at the sight of Jasmine, "no .... it can't be!"

 

[Persephone]

:: Flipping the television off, Alexis stood from her desk letting out a low sigh. This election was becoming brutal, not only for Sharon, but for mutants and meta humans. Plastered on magazines and news stations were reports of mutants being a threat and how they needed to be stopped. It was harsh and unnecessary. Rounding her desk, Alexis crossed her vast office and stopped short of the floor to cieling windows. Allowing her sapphire eyes to scan the city skyline, Alexis' body stiffened hearing a soft tap on her door. Turning her head to the side, she could see Tracy, her personal assistant, slink in. ::

Tracy: "Miss Quartermaine--"

:: Craning her neck back with annoyance, Alexis huffed out as she turned around to face Tracy. Her assistant could see the obvious displeasure on her face. ::

"Let me guess...more calls?"

:: Hesitating, Tracy nodded slowly as she took a step forward toward Alexis' desk. Placing a stack of 20 or so note cards on her desk, Tracy quickly took a small step back. ::

Tracy: "News stations and other magazines refuse to stop calling until they get a quote from you regarding Senator Kelly..."

:: People know of Alexis' involvement with Senator Kelly. Mingling with her and Alycia Bennett at her gala months early was an obvious indication that the two woman knew each other. And with Morgan's friendship with the woman, and Alexis' partnership with Morgan, it was obvious the press believed Alexis had information. ::

"A quote?"

:: Shaking her head, Alexis was getting fed up and fast. Crossing over toward her desk, the blonde pulled out her chair and took a seat once again. Reaching for the stack of index cards, she simply threw them in the garbage and looked up at Tracy. ::

"You tell them if they continue to badger me....mutants will be the least of their concern."

:: Her tone harsh and cold, Tracy took that as her cue to leave. Nodding she back peddled toward the door and quickly left. Sitting back, Alexis parted her lips and inhaled a deep breath. She was growing tired of all this...::

 

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah's silver Lexus idled on Lafayette Street, her badge displayed in it's front window. She watched from afar as Sharon was interviewed on her way into the office, listening to the press coverage on her car radio. She admired Sharon's drive - after the ordeal she had been through, most people would shrink away. But Sharon had stuck to her guns and continued to fight.

As Sharon finished her speech, Delilah put the car in drive and made a left onto Worth Street. She had some reports to drop off at police headquarters - focusing on mundane tasks helping to keep the nervous feeling she had about the election in check.

Her mind kept going back to her conversation with Blaze. She knew she couldn't leave Morgan while she needed her, but at the same time she couldn't shake her outsider feelings. ]

 

[Spellbinder]

Illustra- moving through the day

<< Morgan and Alison watched the impromptu "Q&A" session between Sharon Kelly and the press. Sharon was a tough woman...tougher than many of her MALE counterparts on capitol hill....most of them would have died at the hands of Rick Riley and the terrors of the The Cell....and yet they dismiss her in many ways..much like they dismiss Hillary Clinton>>

::standing up as Morgan switched off the flat screen monitor, Alison looked over::

Alison: I would venture to say that Sharon will win her re-election bid. She's been honest and forth coming across the board and she's tougher than most people give her credit for. WE know that personally. Haleigh's men have Sharon secure and protected. Alycia is across town in meetings. She's chosen to arm herself and has ONE body guard from CI shadowing her.

:ausing for a moment...::

If you don't need me for anything...there's something I have to do.

<< Morgan swung around in her chair and slowly rose. Stretching as she nodded in agreement with Alison about Sharon.>>

Well, tonight will be the ultimate result. We've all been invited to her party at the Rainbow room. I'm meeting with Vera Wang in a couple of hours to look at some dresses and I'm sure youll manage to show up in one of your head line grabbing ensembles again. << Morgan smirked as she playfully ribbed her best friend>>

Would you do me one favor while you're out? Check on Delilah for me? I havent been able to have a decent moment with her since we came back to the city and I just want to make sure she's okay....she and i will talk tonight before we arrive at Sharon's party but she's been heavily on my mind this afternoon.

::Alison nodded and waved goodbye before blinking out of the executive office to attend to her own affairs.::

<< Morgan left the office...walking down the long hallway toward one of the main elevators to head down to a lower floor. Some photographers from Liquid Crystal doing some shoots of Models for a special spring issue of Tempo magazine. the partnership between Illustra, Tempo and Liquid Crystal prooved to be a most synergized union..providing a powerfull presence in the media and fashion worlds as well as a reminder of formidable female owned/operated businesses can be.>>

<< Morgan arrived on her desired floor and made her way to one of the media rooms. slipping through the doors, security immediately stepped aside and let their CEO through. She quietly took a seat in a chair off to the side and watched as the young models struck wonderfull poses and evoked a steely, elegant feel as flashbulbs went off. the head photographer from Liquid Crystal seemed very pleased with this gaggle of models as they were able to embody just what he needed. the background and scenery was able to change before Morgan's eyes courtesy of state of the art technology that combined 3-d images with real life pieces and a flowing liquid crystal background screen. and of course...no photo shoot is complete without a wind machine. Morgan found herself daydreaming a bit remembering her early days as a model. The era of the "super model" as a celebrity was in its twilight but a select few like Morgan were able to parlay their success as super models into other lucrative careers that earned them respect in other areas of the industry. Today's models were all about the fashion..not about the celebrity.>>

<< a little while passed before Morgan smiled and quitely got up and excused herself from the photo shoot. the models were taking a break and she made sure to go up to each one and offer her congratulations and encouragement for a job well done.>>

<<It was time to meet with Vera Wang. Morgan slipped into a private alcove in the hallway outside the Media Room and snapped her fingers. with a chime and flash of light, she was now dressed in an elegant Michael Coors tweed suit consisting a blazer and skirt along with coordinating high heeled boots that reached up just below the knee. it was a very conservative look but the cut of the suit definately flattered Morgan's figure. She made her way down the elevator to the cyrstaline lobby of Illustra's main floor where a limo awaited her. quickly boarding the limo, she was whisked across town...unknowingly passing Delilah as she made her way to Vera Wang's flagship store to meet with the talented designer for a dress selection/fitting>>

 

[Harbinger]

across town

::at the police station where Delilah was, Alison timed her arrival just right to appear in Delilah's office. a pair of cobalt blue eyes opened in the air and looked directly at Delilah. ::

::alison's cold, clear voice could be heard::

Delilah. I apologize for my unusual arrival, but i preferred to by pass the general crowd in the police station. You have an advantage over the rest of us...as your link to the Six has not been solidified by the media just yet.

:: no body appeared to go with those eyes. and for those who were not used to this manifestation..it could seem rather haunting or unsettling to have a pair of intense blue eyes hovering in the air and looking at them, but Delilah was not most people::

We havent seen much of you since we returned to the city. Morgan and I were concerned and Morgan asked me to check up on you since I was going to be on this side of town. I know you received your invitation to Sharon's party tonight....will you be attending? Your presence is necessary....

::the tone in Alison's voice suggested that the precog was subtlely suggesting that there was a bigger reason for asking if Delilah was attending.::

Morgan also wants to meet with you tonight back at Illustra before the party....we can all ride together to the Rainbow room...the THREE of us.

 

[Foxfire]

Unfaltering hands gripped tightly around Anthony's dead corpse, pulling him slowly across the slick pavement; due to a rainstorm from earlier this morning. Crouching down, black gloved hands were meticulous in their inspection of Anthony Klein's coat - Jasmine could not endure any evidence leaks here. The assassin in her was always three steps ahead of officials but the city was better off with one less Klein on their hands, especially this scum. Frost had managed to secure his body into an old slaughter house, where no one would probe or ponder the location. Slaughtered cows hung everywhere on silver hooks around Jasmine but she hardly minded.

Tilting her head to the side with a quizzical look her gloved hand slithered into his black suit pocket to locate a small letter from the opposing Senator to kill Senator Kelly. Standing up, Jasmine laughed at her cousin's dead corpse.

"So much for your mission, huh cousin?"

** Folding the small parchment paper she tucked the paper inside his left jacket pocket. A deep gash lined across his juggler from the wiring she used to cut his vocal cords and piece his throat. Nothing but a small freezer wind blew inside this vast three story building. Her facial expression still concealed with her disguise. **

**Walking across her fallen cousin's body, she stepped one small boot across his body. Her boots tapping quietly as her body became translucent. Pushing open the back door, she removed her clothing to toss into an open barrel to burn any evidence. Her attire now changed to a full lined business suit with a minx fur coat that fell to above her knee. Her shades more round and a blonde wig was worn, which was curled that came to the middle of her back. Reaching inside her fur coat she tapped the alarm on her black BMW. It chirped quietly as it started its engine. **

** Climbing inside she took off for Illustra, she had a meeting with Blaze. Her sister's tone leaked urgency. In a way it almost worried the chilly mutant. Blaze knew something but what? She cut across the back streets to save time as she parked in the parking garage across the street. Slipping out of her fur coat and other accessories. She climbed out only to tread into the Illustra building as a small hockey puck device was contained in her pea - coat with her suede gloved pressing the button. The BMW beeped only to explode as the bomb detonated. Her hair now a silver contrast that fell to the middle of her chin - a razor bob. Her outfit was simple - a black skirt and a pink dress top with a black blazer to frame her body. **

** Walking inside Illustra she stepped up to the secretary with a thick Russian accent. **

"Natasha B'dervif."

** The secretary gazed down to see her list and yes- a Natasha was scheduled. The secretary nodded, "go right on in." Jasmine nodded before her heals clicked the cool marble floor for the express elevator. It took her less than a minute as the doors opened to see Blaze standing there. **

** Blaze smirked at her twin's attire, "Are you an Alias wannabe?" Jasmine frowned, "what?" Her accent returning to normal but Blaze shook her head, "nevermind, come on I have to show you something." Jasmine followed behind Blaze. What she was about to find out would turn her world upside down - yet again. **

 

[Spellbinder]

<< Morgan's limo pulled up to the circle drive outside the office park of Illustra. She'd returned from her satisfying meeting with Vera Wang early and her dress selection was complete. She was unaware that Jasmine was inside Illustra even through a rather far fetched disguise. It goes without saying that once she discovered her in Illustra, there would be some serious back lash. But for the moment, Morgan made her way inside the large, sprawling crystaline vestibule. nodding to the receptionist. It was early evening and there were still visitors, clients and various personell were still in the building. She walked with a purpose, her high heeled boots echoing as they hit the floor...making her way to the private express elevator, she whisked up to the executive office which was just below the private residential floors. down the hall through the vestibule and into the spacious circular office...Morgan set her bags down and removed her coat. seating herself at her desk she began dialed Alexis @ Tempo's headquaters....>>

<< Alexis direct line rang and Morgan waited, tapping her manicured nails on the desk ever so slightly>>

<< all the while she was unaware that Jasmine was prowling around Illustra...but that would soon change>>

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

<< as Alison met with Delilah and Haleigh with the NYPD Detective...it appeared that things were moving along as smoothly as could be expected. The group was down by one...Prophet. He'd been away since the group rescued Sharon and Alycia from The Cell. Bane had also gone missing following the NERVOUS caper. It seemed the MEN (few though they were) of the Six couldnt manage to stick around for very long. And in a time when the team was about to endure yet ANOTHER nightmare...they would need all the members and fire power they could get. the CORE seemed to be getting smaller and smaller even Alexis seemed to be going through some sort of private turmoil that was becoming more and more pronounced. and so it was critical that Alison be able to reassure Delilah.>>

 

[Silver Swan]

:: back in her Office...there's MUCH activity on that floor as Sharon's re-election committee handles phone calls checks the earliest exit polls and continues to remain vigilant.::

campaign worker: She's doing it people! she's got a solid LEAD over Stryer with the 18-34 year old demoraphic...strongest among women. She's leading with female votes across the board too. The early numbers show Sharon with a decent lead ahead but we can't afford to rest on our laurels yet.


:: reporters and photographers were gathered all around the courthouse buzzing with the latest results and talking amongst themselves. ANTI mutant protestors were clashing with supporters of Sharon near by and the NYPD were keeping an eye on them. Things were still orderly...for now. Clandestine Inc Snipers were strategically positioned on the top of the courthouse and Sharon's own office was guarded by CI agents as well::

:: though the floor was buzzing with activity, Sharon was inside her office...genuinely trying to block out the muffled din....as she listened to soft classical music and sat in her chair with her head down on the desk....she was genuinely worried about what would happen ...to her, her friends in the six and this city if she did not WIN and remain able to continue the ground breaking work she was leading in the political war against MysTech and for support of mutant/meta human rights. she knew that there were many special interest groups ...some illegal that would love to see her and Alycia dead for the things they have done...the words they have said. She's survived several attempts on her life ALREADY. She's not scared of dying...she's cared of FAILING.::

:: several times she starts to pick up the phone to call Morgan...her friend...but she knows that she cannot afford to be seen or heard having any contact with The Six right now. ALL of them have to watch what they say and do doing this most critical time.::

Sharon: :ressing a comlink button that connects her to one of the CI agents outside her door::

Hello, this is Sharon Kelly, can you please connect me to Alycia Barnett via secure channel?

 

[Persephone]

:: Running her fingers along her temple, Alexis' head was throbbing with a massive tension headache. As her eyes scanned over some advertising boards, she jumped slightly at the sound of her telephone ringing. Letting out a huff of annoyance, she was pretty damn certain she told Tracy to hold all her calls. But then again, Tracy was as thick as they came, there was no doubt she forgot. Deciding to ignore the call, Alexis focused her attention back down at the boards, trying to regain her train of toughts. Unfortunately the ringing was like nails on a chalkboard, making it feel as if there was a really shitty high school marching band parading around in her skull. Rubbing the back of her hand along her brow line, Alexis grunted out and snatched the phone from it's holder. ::

"WHAT!?"

:: Snapping harshly into the reciever, Alexis gripped the edge of her desk wondering what lucky prick she was going to bitching out now. ::

 

[Spellbinder]

<< Morgan's icy violet eyes widened with a bit of disbelief before a look of irritation crept over her own face at the sound of Alexis' rude reception>>

I BEG YOUR PARDON!?

<< Morgan bellowed into the telephone. she stopped herself from going further with her rebuke realizing that Alexis may have been under strain from the dead line of the special issue of Tempo coming up OR that she was once again being dogged by the papparazzi and tabloid reporters>>

sounds like you're out of sorts right now....I was calling to ask you if you want dodge the press tonight and ride with Alison, Delilah and myself to Sharon's [hopefully] victory party.

<< her tone was icy and to the point...avoiding any sound of concern she would have normally had. Morgan was trying to find a way to help them ALL avoid as much contact with certain parts of the media..knowing that many reporters were out to EXPOSE the women as super powered beings and bring controversy into their life.>>

there's still time. if you you decide you want to, just call me back. I'll let you go now.

<<Without giving Alexis time to respond, Morgan SLAMS the phone down hanging it up and gets up from her desk..quickly leaving the executive office and moving down the hall to the private elevator to shoot up to her posh luxury apartment on the top floor of Illustra.>>

<<Alexis was left on the other end of the phone as Morgan hurridly ended the conversation. as testy as she was now, she was about to get an unexpected visitor that she never could have anticipated.....there was a knock at the door>>

 

[Black Widow]

Liquid Crystal Images Inc -- CEO office

Haleigh relaxed as she locked eyes with the detective, crossing her legs at the knee. The role she chose was simple and, as all GOOD lies were, based in truth. All she had to do was SELL IT.... something she was very skilled at doing.

"I'm not sure I understand what you're asking detective.... was there a question in there somewhere?"

O'connell grit his teeth... he could see she wasn't going to drop the answers into his lap... she was playing up her blonde look, but he knew for a fact she was more intelligent than that... in his haste, he had tried to lead her into blowing his case wide open, and she had called him on it.

O'Connell:"Miss Davidoff... what were you DOING at the courthouse while it was under attack?"

Haleigh watched the young man closely as she answered. "I was helping a friend." said she, keeping her responses vague and mostly true.

O'Connell: "Assistant District Attourney Alycia Barnett?"

"Mmmhmm." she returned quietly, giving him a look that asked him to get to the point.

O'Connell: "How did you know she needed your help?"

"She called me." Again, SORT of true.

O'Connell:"Why would she call YOU?? there were several law enforcement squads, INCLUDING two S.W.A.T teams."

Haleigh sat forward, pretending to be slightly irritated at his roundabout questioning, pretending to be interested in why he would want to know WHY. The conversation was deteriorating into an interrogation, pingponging back and forth between them. Haleigh let the young detective THINK he had the power here, while she spun a web around him.... poor boy would never know what hit him.... like a Black Widow's mate when it realized it would be dinner... "I don't know detective.... you would have to ask her. Maybe it's because I'm a former Naval Counterterrorism Agent. Maybe its because I have a lot of Navy SEAL friends. MAYBE she just felt MORE COMFORTABLE under my care. I can only speculate... her motives are unknown to me. What exactly are you driving at detective? If you're concerned that I was involved in the attack on the courthouse, you can forget it.... just ask Barnett, or even Detective Trelaven... they'll vouch for me."

O'Connell:"Name-dropping doesn't impress me, ma'am. Now I am trying to get to the bottom of tragic courthouse attack, and after doing some digging, I found some pretty interesting, albeit DISTURBING things about you, Miss Davidoff. You're rumored to be involved in Arms Dealing... Gun-For-Hire operations, Money Laundering... no concrete evidence... just heresay.... but from a VERY reliable source."

Haleigh laughed, dismissing the accusations [for the tone in his voice made it clear that he HAD been accusing her of those things]. "O'Connell, who have you been talking to? A doped up conspiracy theorist? Or did you just pull those ridiculous notions out of your ass?"

O'Connell:[leaning forward and narrowing his eyes, putting on his best fight face...] "I know ALL about your little extra-curricular activities, Miss Davidoff... in underground circles and even out on the STREET, you're rumored to hold down more weight than the Klein family ever thought about... and now that the Senior Klein is on the run and most of the rest are facing capital charges... time is prime for you to usurp the italian family and take your rightful place on the crime kingpin throne... And if that wasn't alarming enough, word is that you're possibly a mutant, using your... abilities.... to intimidate and TORTURE opposition into submission... You're a mysterious, very powerful, very WEALTHY businesswoman.... with rumors about you that don't look so good. I'm just letting you know... I'm searching with a fine tooth comb... and WHEN I get hard evidence on you... I'm going to NAIL YOUR ASS."

Haleigh stood up, pretending to be both astounded and affronted by what he was insinuating. "I don't like what you're suggesting, O'Connell.... but I can see you are only trying to do your job... here, let me help you out." said she, making her way over to the door and opening it for him, gesturing politely that it was time for him to leave. "Let me give you some parting advice, Detective. Treating a possible witness like a criminal is not wise.... you make a person feel as though anything they might say-- which could help you-- would incriminate themselves, whether they are guilty or NOT. furthermore--" said she, catching his elbow as he passed by her to leave her office... "If you EVER come back to me, swinging that outrageous shit like that again, I'll make sure you're pushing PAPERS for the rest of your career with the NYPD.... IF you live to HAVE a career."

O'Connell:"WHAT did you say?"

Haleigh stared him down, allowing a fire to burn within her eyes that was... at the very least, giving her the look of a woman to be reckoned with. "You heard me." she responded, calmly, firmly. Unrelenting and absolute, she left no room for speculation, and the rigidity of her demeanor gave the rookie detective the chills.

O'Connell:"That sounded DANGEROUSLY like a threat." He challenged, using his badge as a source of protection, though he suddenly felt like the entire momentum had shifted, and she'd turned the table on him, leaving him no choice but to forfeit.

"You take it as you will O'Connell, it was open to interpretation. now i'm late for a conference... I think you need to go have a talk with your captain... I'll be having a lengthy discussion with him myself. If you have anymore questions for me, direct them to my attourney... you can get her number from my assistant down the hall. Good DAY, sir." She finished, as she pushed him out the door.

She went back over to the desk, logging in to her pc and searching all the usual places for Alison... Haleigh was one who was VERY careful about using her abilities in public... she NEVER did anything that might expose her or SAID anything to arouse suspicions about her or others.... so if the idiot detective who ditched his partner for a witchhunt had heard that Haleigh was a mutant... it was possibly a leak from someone who knew that she was a mutant... who knew she was involved with the six... and that person had a lot of dangerous information to be leaking... Mystech was the first thing that came to Haleigh's mind, and that thought worried her.... she needed to warn Alison and the others.

 

[Foxfire]

Illustra - conference room

Blaze lead Jasmine into the spacious conference room which was just down the hall from the private suits. Walking inside, Blaze mentally attempted to choose her words wisely for she knew this would ultimately destroy Jasmine Klein. Nibbling on her bottom lip, her cat's eyes marched along to the long marble table - this was where some of the more private business meetings where held.

"What's this about Blaze?"

The fiery mutant was quiet as she side stepped Jasmine to close and lock the door behind her. Motioning to the black swivel computer chairs, Blaze walked over to one. Both twins taking a seat at the table. Blaze finally locked eyes with Jasmine - it was like looking at a mirror except for her disguise. Frost knew Morgan would be furious with the presence of her in the building, however, she had no choice but to arrive due to Blaze's instructions. And if anything Blaze would discuss the matter with Morgan - but somehow Blaze knew Morgan would understand and might possibly be lenient with Jasmine.

Folding her hands on the marble table, Blaze quietly cleared her throat. "There's no gentle way of saying this Jasmine." She paused, preparing for the emotional backlash Jasmine would feel. Jasmine's face twisted into a deeply penetrating frown, "Blaze - spit it out already."

"Your cousin Violet and your daughter Elizabeth are dead."

An audible gasp escaped Jasmine whose jaw dropped with shock and pain. Shaking her head in disbelief she spat out the first thought, "no, I made sure they were heavily guarded!" Blaze bowed her head, "I'm afraid not - they were murdered by H.A.T.E. I'm afraid. I was just informed - your whole team was killed and the base."

For a second, Jasmine froze attempting to mask this raw emotion when she suddenly bellowed out a horrid painful scream as she slammed her fist into the conference table. "NO!!!" She yelled as her green eyes filled with tears as she sunk down into the chair - thankful she had not been standing.

Blaze's nurturing side was unleashed as she stood from her chair to walk over to Jasmine. Frost's first thought was to push away and that's exactly what she did. At the sight of Blaze her hand forcefully pushed Blaze back, "NO! Get back!" She barked coldly as her eyes morphed into a sky blue tint. But Blaze yanked the chair back and pulled Jasmine into a tight hug.

Finally, Jasmine nearly collapsed into her sister's arms as she lost it. Brushing through her sister's real hair, Blaze felt the sadness fill her as well. "WHY?! She was just a CHILD!" She buried her head in Blaze's shoulder. Blaze sniffled, her sister's emotions crawling into her own core. "Because she was a mutant - they all were."

Jasmine pulled back fiercely, the eye - makeup worn as her mascara had stained her cheeks. "They WILL pay!" She swore to herself as Blaze took both of Jasmine's hands in her own, "NO, its too dangerous. You risk exposure this whole team does! If anything you must be on down - time. You might need a vacation or some time away." Jasmine shook her head, "no, this team needs me even if they despise me."

Blaze knew this was just the beginning of Jasmine's transmission. Her knees buckled and out Jasmine went as she collapsed onto the floor, taking Blaze with her. Both siblings sat on the floor in a heap with Blaze's strong sisterly arms wrapped tightly around Jasmine. All Jasmine could do was cry - her heart broke not only for her cousin but for her daughter. A child could never be replaced and Jasmine knew it. First her lover, Michael and now her daughter. What else was left to take?

"Blaze.." She whispered as she cried harder. The realization settling in further as she sobbed uncontrollable.

 

[Artemis]

District Attourney's office

:: Alycia is sitting at her desk, working intently on documents of a private nature. She had taken a break to watch Sharon Kelly address the press on the steps of the courthouse. the political tensions were extremely high in the air all around NYC and the anti mutant sentiment was growing. Not to mention the lingering questions about the courthouse fiasco. this was one situation that Alycia was NOT able to make go away for she was very much involved in it. She had no idea YET that an NYPD detective was already making inquiries as to the link between herself and Haleigh Davidoff. Most were unaware that she was an ally and friend of several members of The Six...a group that was itself fast becoming disliked by the public at large due to the increasingly violent clashes between Mystech and the six that were spilling out into the public eye::

:: her private line rings.::

Alycia: Barnett here.

Sharon: Alycia, it's Sharon. How are you holding up?

Alycia:
::leaning back in her chair and crossing her long legs at the knee, she exhales loudly as she takes another break from intense concentration::

ah you know how things are here...with the DA toting the causes of the people ...its pathetic the way they try to put up a front during elections. But there's still a ripple effect from the court house fiasco. people are talking Sharon...about BOTH of us. There's all kinds of speculation and while i've been tight lipped about it, I havent found a way to make this go away..the media and inside leaks have given it too much ammo.

:ausing a moment:: the polls are looking good so far Sharon...i'd venture to say that youve GOT THIS.

::both women were reluctant to speak for a moment..they just felt like they were being watched or scrutinized some how.

Sharon: well im not resting on my laurels yet. after all..the court house fiasco is still fresh on the minds of everyone and like you said..there some seriously negative spin going on. i certainly HOPE things work out in my favor though. will i see you tonight?

Alycia: of course! i wouldnt miss it for the world. the driver is gonna pick me up after you. Morgan , Alison, Delilah and the others will be there too so there will be..."coverage".

::looking down at her watch which also has the Clandestine Inc. "panic button" discreetly attached to it::

its early evening now. I better get ready to close up shop here and head out to get ready. keep your panic button with you at all time's Sharon....I'm doing the same thing. its our life line to Clandestine Inc if anything should happen today and I'm sure there are some "ANTI Kelly" groups/individuals running loose. Funny how the feds are so quick to scrutinize you but NOT nearly as quick to offer the protection in moments like this...they seem not to be doing a very good job of hiding their shame over the allegations of being in bed with Mystech.

I'll catch up to you later this evening and then we'll be headed to the Rainbow Room.

Take care Sharon...we'll be CELEBRATING tonight.

:: the two women hang up the phones and Alycia gets up, moving toward the window of her high rise office, she looks down and notices a black vehical..there's a man looking rather dark and mysterious with a sophisticated camera...the lens pointed UPWARD TOWARD ALYCIA! As Alycia realizes this..she backs away from the window ...stumbling into her waste basket before regaining herself.....::

calm down, Alycia...

::something doesnt seem right ...this isnt the first time that she's noticed the suspiciously plain looking vehical and the covert, mysterious man who seems to be conducting survielance on her. she walks over to her desk and picks up the phone, private channell, to call Haleigh....the line rings as Alycia waits.::

 

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah glanced up casually from her paperwork as Alison's eyes appeared in her office. She was used to it by now. She finished the sentence she was writing then pushed back in her chair and listened to what Guardian had to say. It was true that she had been spending much of her time alone since they arrived back in the city. But truth be told, she hadn't been sure anyone had noticed. She smiled as Alison mentioned Sharon's party, and held up her own invitation which was sitting on her desk. ]

"Of course I'll be there - it's Sharon's night and I wouldn't miss it for the world. What time does Morgan want me at Illustra? I have some things to finish up here before I go home and change for tonight."

 

[Persephone]

Tempo Magazine - Alexis' Office

:: Tightly shutting her eyes, Alexis heard Morgan scream back on the other line, obviously annoyed. Letting out a small sigh, Alexis lifted her hand up to her forehead and gently massaged it. ::

"Oh....Morgan--"

:: Getting cut off by Morgan's icy tone, Alexis pressed her lips together listening to Morgan's straight to the point invite to tonight's festivities. Before she could even respond to her, Morgan had hung up. Rolling her eyes upward, Alexis hung the phone up and sat back in her chair. Honestly she wasn't sure if she wanted to go out with Morgan, Alison, and especially Delilah. And she was pretty damn certain Delilah didn't want to associate with her as well. Deciding to wait a little while before calling Morgan back, Alexis would weigh out her options before giving Morgan an answer. Sitting forward in her chair, Alexis' eyes lifted to her office door after hearing an abrupt knocking. Lowering her brows, she let out a soft grunt. ::

"What now?"

 

[Black Widow]

Liquid Crystal Images Inc -- CEO office

Haleigh looks up from her computer monitor as the phone rings. She knows who it is and reaches for it instantly, resting her weight on the edge of her desk and making sure her voice is as calm as it can sound.

"Alycia... how are you? Have you talked to Sharon?" Haleigh found it difficult to talk to the others since finding out that two of their 'inner circle' would die... Haleigh had always wished she could see into the future but she now realized what a curse and a burden that could be..... and she had a newfound appreciation for Alison, being the team's 'know-it-all'. Haleigh would never give Alison a hard time about that again.

Haleigh waited for Alycia to speak... she would, of course, being telling her about the conversation she'd just had with the detective... Alycia, of all people, deserved to know.... But something told Haleigh that Alycia hadn't just called to shoot the breeze, and ANY reason Haleigh could think of Alycia calling HER was alarming, at best.

 

[Artemis]

::Alycia heard the connection as Haleigh began to speak. She exhaled quietly as she slowly sat back down in her large swivel chair.::

....Hi Haleigh, I'm fine thanks. Yes I did talk to Sharon just a minute ago actually. She's a little nervous but who wouldnt be in her position? She informed me that transportation has been set up for her and myself to the Rainbow room tonight. I'm assuming that we'll have a CI agent for our driver?

:ausing for a moment, Alycia resumed::

my MAIN purpose for calling was...I think i'm being followed. I've noticed a plain black sedan...almost TOO plain. and a man who is mainly cloaked..but working with some highly sophisticated photography equipment. He was just outside of my office a moment ago....and this is the 3rd time I've noticed him.

I'm sure you aware of the dimming public view of The Six and anyone involved with them. The rumours involving Sharon and Myself are out there as well...its possible that MysTech is somehow trying to use this to sabotage Sharon in a last ditch effort before the final results of the election are in. I've been keeping quiet on the media front because I have no choice....I can't afford to bring anymore attention to the DA's office following the fiasco at the courthouse...but I wanted you to know that i think we are being trailed...and its possible that The Six are as well.


:: Alycia looked over and out of the window. the car was still there ...but the man was no where in sight for the moment.::