Everybody hates Claudia!

[Siren]

Clara: YOU'RE the one that set up this barebones-staffing situation anyway. If you WANT someone around so you don't have to answer the damn door, HIRE SOMEONE.

Claudia rolled her eyes as she grabbed the pitcher of coffee and poured herself some. She didn't bother responding to Clara knowing her pleasent mood had already drastically declined and not wanting to further take it out on her sister.

Clara: Tell me… just WHY did it seem like you and that guy were having some kind of CRYPTIC competition??

"What?"

Claudia replied sharply, looking up at Clara with furrowed brows. Shaking her head, she brushed off her sisters curiosity about Zach.

"I toy with men, Clara. You should know that by now."

Her tone was still laced with irritation, but not directed at her sister. Although it was frustrating having Clara know her so well that she knew she was baiting Zach. Regardless, it was a half-assed answer that she knew Clara wouldn't fall for.

Clara: You don't forget a face, you were BAITING him. Where do you know him from?"

"Clara, I was just playing mind games with Haleigh, okay? She parades around here like her shit don't stink and drags her boyfriend around behind on a short leash. It's disgusting. And frankly I don't want to be a witness to it at 9 oclock in the morning."

Claudia did her best to avoid directly lying to Clara as much as possible. She WAS telling half the truth, but she left out some very important details. Whether or not Clara would actually believe her or not was yet to be determined.

Clara: Yes well… that's how I feel about NICOLAS, so…

"Touche."

 

[Silver Swan]

apartment 3

[ in apartment 3, Sharon tended to her silver gryfalcons in their special room. humming to them , using her sonic powers, she kept the birds calm as she cleaned them and groomed them.]

and in a little bit, we'll go for our morning flight exercises! won't that be fun?

[ she said as the birds closed their eyes with contentment at her touch and gentle voice. Sharon was always gentle, maternal with her bird, treating them far better than she would most humans.]

[ with no REASON to listen in on what was going on outside, Sharon was merely aware of the presence and movement of people in the court yard. heart beats, breathing patterns and voice tones. she was not yet aware of what was about to unfold today. still unaware that Morgan AND Nicolas WORKED for this crack whore Claudia! but beneath her calm exterior, the growing rage and blood thirsty desire to TEAR CLAUDIA APART LITERALLY was rising. OTHER people may have not realized how serious it was, but ALISON did.]

[ and soon , Alison BLINKS into view, "sitting" in the air near the ceiling with one leg crossed over the other at the knee.]

Hullo, Alison.

[ Sharon says as she opens a window and dumps out the water used to rinse off the birds as they flutter their wings and shake themselves a bit.]

I was just giving Artemis and Antiope a bath.

Alison: They are beautifull, Sharon.

Sharon: Thank you. To think that Nicolas would have had access to such RARE birds, much less thought to give them to me...

Alison: that WAS a very thoughtfull, heartfelt gesture on his part. it showed how much he cared about you...still does. Its easy for the rest of us to forget that you knew him when he was a young boy.

Sharon: He and Kyle would be close in age...Kyle would have enjoyed him as a playmate, maybe even as a step brother. But Mystech, Arklay and Malice changed all of that...

Alison: but look at you now? beautifull, powerfull and living a life that most humans couldnt imagine...

Sharon: at a HEAVY cost though, Alison. My family...my husband and son are DEAD. Gustav is gone as well....and even Nicolas has CHANGED, even MORE since he became a young man.

[ she brings over the small silver trays of specially prepared food for the birds and connects it to their perches so they can eat.]

Alison: But you're here...and you have US. we're family. And Morgan and I...we've cared about you for a long time and our friendship with you isnt because you're the Silver Swan. You did brave, heroic things even BEFORE that.

Sharon: did i do enough? The Zaccharas live in the SAME BUILDING as us. I mean....how fucked up is that? WE ourselves got a once in a lifetime opportunity to return to civilization after Bishop and the Tri Sentinel, and now, we share our space with THOSE two stupid whores?

Alison: they got over because they were insulated. you did all you could as a senator but there's corruption everywhere. you knew that then, so dont forget it now and go blaming yourself. you're more than a woman...a better woman than EITHER of those two walking coke head sluts ( ) will ever be...and take it from me, as a precog...they may THINK they have it all figured out now...but their downfall is coming and soon...

Sharon: [ looking visibly unhappy] so I have to WAIT? Why can't i just KILL THEM! it wouldnt be murder...it'd be JUSTICE! it's not like ME, or MORGAN or anyone ELSE who has caused deaths...WE actually had remorse. Their entire life style, all that they have is built on the blood and bones of innocents that were slaughted by their family and now those two bulemic bimbos are here in this apartment!

Alison: Listen, Sharon. I'm RIGHT THERE with you. I don't like them, they threaten people I care about and I could easily BLOW BOTH OF THEM UP right now, but Nicolas actually had a moment of insight when he said their premature deaths would bring scrutiny down on Melrose Place and Morgan. We cant misstep like that now. I need you to TRUST me. Claudia may revel in the trouble she brings NOW, but she will pay for it. Don't forget, BARBAS is after HER too. OUR primary concern is to our family. to HELL with the Zaccharas. I just have to keep Nicolas from being so frickin' STUPID by chasing after that walking STD factory Claudia.

[ Sharon really appreciated that Alison TOTALLY saw eye to eye with her on the Zaccharas. the sisters didnt know how dangerous a position they were in with Silver Swan AND Harbinger gunning for them and unbeknownst to Sharon, Morgan would soon join their ranks but not before Claudia's manipulations would cause more drama.]

Sharon: well, Alison...it's only BECAUSE of Morgan and the safety of the others from outside scrutiny that I do not rip them apart. they think they are so smart and smug...If i can NICOLAS pause with my attacks, then what prayer do those two idiots have?

Alison: Not a prayer, Sharon and if it comes to that SOONER than it should, rest assured that I will back you. Others on this team [ Including HALEIGH, who was inexplicably trying to play a game with the Zaccharas that she would find herself ONE UPPED in] have never been GOOD at taking the hard line against someone when I warn them to, but I won't leave you to hang out to dry.

[ Sharon smiled at the witch.]

Sharon: you know...I bet you would be aces to have in a knock down, drag out brawl.

Alison: don't you know? it's never wise to make a bet AGAINST a precog! [ Alison winks at her friend] I've got to go now, but i just wanted to let you know that I am right there with you on those two whores. They arent worth their weight in the shit that comes out of them, but i SEE things turning out right for US [ the six and family] and that includes THEIR downfall. Just hang in there Sharon.

Sharon: thank you Alison. I'll see you later!

[ the mutate waves as the precog blinks out. turning to the birds, Sharon gathers up all the garbage and refuse from from the clean up in the tarp and ties it up, she'll carry it out and throw it in the dumpsters as she takes her birds for their morning fight exercises.]

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah was just forgetting that she had a care in the world when Mike entered the scene and brought reality back into screeching clarity.

To that end, I noticed a large amount of cash moved and investigated further. It was at that point that I realized that you were moving your own money and…

Delilah’s aorta almost burst her blood pressure rose so quickly. Who the hell does he think he is, prying into my personal finances. What I do with my own money is my own business…he’s just like Nicolas. Think they can just get into everyone else’s business anytime they want to…

But then he seguewayed into an apology.

I want you to know something. I know that we have had our differences, and that I have at times not been fair to you. For that I apologize. But the things I have seen about you, the things I do know indicate to me that we have more in common than I originally realized, and that you deserve MUCH more respect than I have at times afforded you in spite of the fact that we at times do not see eye to eye. I hope that we can move forward, and I want you to know: if you need any help, I have experience in training and dealing with those who are...special. If you are looking for help...I am here, now or in the future. Once again, I apologize for the mistakes I have made in my dealings with you.

She pushed her sunglasses down her nose and studied him. He at least had the guts to admit when he was wrong, and that he was wrong. But then again, he was like Nicolas – could she trust what he said to be real, or was he just putting some pretty words together to get himself out of a jam? How could she be sure he was being sincere? And then he said it:

Take care...by the way, you look GREAT, as always.

There it was. She pushed her glasses back up on her face. Flattery to get what he wanted. He couldn’t have meant what he said about the rest.

And suddenly, ALISON was laying into Mike. Well, her eyes were at least. And whatever part of her came along for the ride… Delilah almost found herself wanting to defend Mike, the Seer was so harsh. But, she didn’t. She just watched it happen, and then Alison was gone in as quick of a flash as she had come. Delilah shook herself, feeling like a tidal wave had just smacked her out of her tranquil daze.

“Did that just happen?” she whispered, laughing a little to herself.

Then, thankfully, Karen arrived.

You look beautifull. Are you sure YOU arent in today's photoshoot?

Delilah laughed, a little nervously. It was like your mother giving you a compliment…weird and not really to be believed.

“Thanks, Karen, you look very stylish yourself. But I don’t think we want any broken cameras on the day of Morgan’s big comeback.”

Does she know them? The Zaccharas?

Delilah shrugged.

“I’ve seen Haleigh talking to them a couple of times, but I’m not sure if she really knows them. SHARON on the other hand has SOMETHING going on with them and not in a good way…I haven’t met them yet myself.”

She glanced up to the doorway where Zach and Haleigh stood.

“But I’m sure that living with US is going to prove to be more than THEY bargained for. Somehow I don’t think they’ll last long.”

She smiled at Karen and stood up.

“Alison told me she’s going to pass on the photo shoot – so that’s just Blaze we’re waiting on. And Morgan, of course, but somehow I doubt she’ll appear until she’s made us all WAIT a while.”

She winked good naturedly at Karen. Delilah of course loved to tease Morgan about her “primping” – but they all recognized that this was her moment and that part of her job was preparing accordingly. She was about to ask if they should offer Haleigh a ride, thought better of it, then saw Haleigh “disappear”.

Well I guess she has her own mode of transportation anyway…

 

[Shadow Weaver]

MP courtyard

<< Karen noted Mike as he greeted her and complimented her, as he went to check on the car Karen seated herself next to Delilah, who informed her that Sharon had an issue with the Zaccharas.>>

And why hasnt anyone bothered to ASK Sharon about it? Perhaps they are people she dealt with in the past when she was a Senator? I'll admit, that when i dealt with Claudia, she seemed nice enough...a bit of a tart, but she was pleasant and respectfull to me. At the time, we werent sure what we wanted to do with the building...we thought we'd just use it as a source of no brain income...we didnt realize that Morgan or any of you would actually be LIVING here. But Morgan's contractors did a great job of renovating the place....and since Claudia had already signed her purchase agreement, it was not worth the trouble to nullify it.

Her sister is a tad annoying though.

<< Delilah suggested they might not last long living there.>>

Well they certainly dont have much in the way of manners do they? they hardly ever interact with anyone else here so they cant be mad if no one here thinks of them. If they do leave unexpectedly, I'm sure Morgan would rather give that apartment to someone more deserving anyway, like Ava when she's ready to come back.

<< Karen checked her bag, looking at the communicator that Mike had given her and Arielle. So far nothing had come through, the young witch must be okay for now. And as Delilah joked about Morgan, Karen perked up.>>

OH Morgan isnt riding with us. She's already at the sound stange! She wanted to make sure everything was in order and she insisted on selected her own wardrobe for the photo shoot and tv spot. the limo coming is for us.

<< Delilah and Karen didnt realize that NICOLAS was to be apart of this shoot...the inevitable confrontation was coming though. Blaze was the only one left to appear.>>

If Blaze doesnt come soon, I'll go and get her. This Blaze...FIREBIRD is a bit more of a glamor puss, like Morgan so she may be taking a bit of extra time to "primp" herself.

 

[MorningStar]

Just like Morgan to switch things up like that.

And why hasnt anyone bothered to ASK Sharon about it?

Delilah blinked. That was a good question.

“Um…I guess I never thought of that. But you’re right, we should have.”

Delilah made a mental note to bring it up with Sharon the next time she saw her.

If Blaze doesnt come soon, I'll go and get her. This Blaze...FIREBIRD is a bit more of a glamor puss, like Morgan so she may be taking a bit of extra time to "primp" herself.

It was so easy for Delilah to forget that THIS Blaze wasn’t THEIR Blaze. But she was different, that was certain.

“Well, I’ll have fun busting on Blaze for being late, anyway…I hope Morgan isn’t nervous, though. Maybe one of us should have gone there early for moral support?”

Delilah suspected that Morgan wasn’t nervous at all, but that when it came down to it, the rest of them would be nervous enough FOR her.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

the courtyard

<< Karen shook her head to the negative about Morgan.>>

I offered to go with her this morning, she was adamant that she go alone. I know my daughter...and she wants to be as hands on in this as she can. She feels that she built her career alone before, and she must do it again. Knowing her, she's doing this to proove to herself there's life after Nicolas.

I must admit, I am thoroughly happy for my daughter, and all that has come her way in her endeavor to revive her career...but something about all of this is bothering me. its a quiet "whisper" inside of me...i'm not sure if its a mother's instinct to be concerned for her child when facing something so important...or if its something ELSE all together...like the fact that she's working for an agency owned by a woman that lives in the same building as you all that Sharon has a HUGE problem with.

Well, whatever happens...we'll be there for her. We'll make SURE she doesnt have to face it alone. Morgan is savvy in this business and I doubt there's much Claudia could try that Morgan wouldnt be able to call her on.


<< if only karen knew how WRONG she was about this statement.>>

<< looking at her anne klein II watch, Karen stood up.>>

come on, let's go and retrieve our little Firebird before she gives NEW MEANING to "Fashionably late".

<< and with that, Karen and Delilah go to get Blaze from Apt. 8>>

 

[Fusion]

MP -- Apt 6

Claudia: "I toy with men, Clara. You should know that by now."

Ah… if only that were the WHOLE truth. It was clear from her facial expression that Clara wasn't ABOUT to fall for it…. So Claudia elaborated:

Claudia: "Clara, I was just playing mind games with Haleigh, okay? She parades around here like her shit don't stink and drags her boyfriend around behind on a short leash. It's disgusting. And frankly I don't want to be a witness to it at 9 oclock in the morning."

Clara slowly shook her head, frowning. There was a bitter disappointment in voice.

"Haleigh wasn't the one you were playing mind games with."

She sighed, turning away and beckoning to Johnny.

[halfheartedly over her shoulder] "Good Luck at your photo shoot today. Come on, Johnny."

Not missing a step, Johnny grabbed their coats and held Clara's open for her as she slid her arms into it. She tossed a final glance at Claudia and then out the door she went, without even attempting to say her destination. She was beginning to get frustrated with Claudia's continual secrecy… it was a LOT like what her father did frequently, except her father always answered difficult questions with 'it's for your own good, princess.' Well, Clara wasn't going to stick around and be LIED to.

 

[Siren]

Claudia could see the disappointment flooding her sisters eyes.

Clara: Haleigh wasn't the one you were playing mind games with.

Watching her turn away, Claudia softly scoffed in disbelief. She wanted to say something, but what was the alternative? 'Hey, yeah...I slept with the guy, that's how I know him. Oh, why you ask? Because I want Haleigh to stay away from you and our family.' THAT would sit well with her sister. Either way, Claudia was digging herself into a deep hole with not only her sister, but the rest of the residents of Melrose Place. She could care less what the others thought of her or what they would do to her.....but Clara? She valued her opinion, trust, and love more than anything and anyone elses in the world. It was unfortunate that her bad habits were slowly putting a wrench in their relationship.

"Clara..."

Clara: [halfheartedly over her shoulder] Good Luck at your photo shoot today. Come on, Johnny.

"Clara, come on...[watching her walk out the door] Clara!"

As the door closed, Claudia's mouth was parted in shock, utterly taken aback that Clara just left. Staring at the closed door for a few moments, Claudia slowly blinked, shifting her disheartened eyes to the floor. What was she doing? She had JUST gotten her sister back and now she was pushing her, literally, out the door. And for what? To fuck with people she hardly knew? To get a rise out of their grief? The looming shadow of inevitability cast upon Claudia like an eclipse. Everything she had just set into motion was going to come back to haunt her in the form of her sister. And slowly, she was beginning to wonder if it was all worth it.

 

[Firebird]

Apt 8

Being in Limbo had definitely been quite an experience for the young fire elemental. Not only did she get a lot more background on Karen but Karen's grandmother, Barbas, and her father. Even while returning from Limbo, Blaze still thought about it.

But today was Morgan's day and she would fully support her! Beyonce's 'Single Ladies' blared from her Bose speakers as the fire mutant danced across her bedroom to pick out something to wear. Typically, Blaze wore suits, dresses, skirts, and jeans. But today she felt being a rebel.

Browsing through her closet to stop on her Alison Edmond collection. A grin radiating across her glossy lips. Already doing her hair and makeup while only wearing just her lingerie. Pulling out a wooden hanger that contained this. Slipping into the chiffon and cashmere zip-up top, sequin cropped cardigan, wool poloneck, DKNY jeans, felt vintage trilby and lizardskin pumps. Blaze was going more for the rebel chic look.

Once dressed, Blaze exited out of her apartment building. Making sure it was closed before descending the stairs to see Karen and Delilah.

"Hey you two, looking good."

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Melrose Place

<< Karen looked at Blaze for a moment...>>

the youth of today...

well hello there, Blaze...we'll make sure you get to your audition for the remake of FLASH DANCE on time!

<< a little joke referring to Blaze's bold choice of a retro outfit.>>

now come along. you've had us waiting long enough!

<< she herds Blaze down the stairs and calls for Mike and whoever else is riding with them.>>

It's time we were going.

<< and so, everyone walks out of the courtyard, having just missed Clara. They stand on Melrose Avenue and the limo rounds the corner, making its way toward them to pick them up.>>

 

[Firebird]

Courtyard

well hello there, Blaze...we'll make sure you get to your audition for the remake of FLASH DANCE on time!

"That's right, first impressions are everything. But why stop there when we can get you an audition for BEWITCHED!"

Chuckling, Blaze shook her head at Karen's little poke of fun at her wardrobe. The young mutant took it all in strides though. She did take a chance on her bold outfit. But so did celebrities and not always the best choice.

Walking along with the others, Blaze noticed Haleigh was missing from the scene. Standing next to Karen and Delilah as they waited for the limo to arrive.

 

[Seer]

to the MAC campaign

<< and as the limo arrives, Mike helps Karen inside, followed by Delilah, Blaze and then himself. Haleigh would get there by her own means and Nicolas had been summoned before the others as well.>>

<< they would arrive in a timely manner and be escorted to the audience area of the shoot. all of them looking stylish in their own ways and sitting together to watch one of their own do what she loved best. they didnt know that her ticket to happiness had come with such an underhanded, dirty trick as well courtesy of claudia, who was already at best, merely TOLERATED by most of those present.>>

 

[Spellbinder]

L.A. -sound stage

<< in her dressing room, Morgan sits with her hair and make up team, they have just finishing touches on her look for the "Red she said" lipstick collection. her black, calvin klein mini dress was understated, but figure flattering. the attention was to be on her face, which was made up with MAC cosmetics by a celebrity make up artist hand picked by Morgan. Her hair, which she had taken to wearing at a shorter "bob" length since moving to MP, was now glossed and slicked back, giving her a very chic, "runway" look. her eyes popped with the finishing touches on them and she now looked very glamorous...stunning in fact.>>

<< as the hair and make up team finished, Morgan sat in her chair, thanking them for a job well done. everyone left and Morgan was now alone in her dressing room. alone....>>

<< it was awfully quiet, with only the muffled sounds of movement and activity outside her door occasionally making headway into her large dressing room.>>

<< Morgan had a few moments to contemplate what was about to occurr...>>

soon, ill be out on the set...its for real. No more day dreams, its back in action, full effect!

<< there had been whispers around the stage about Morgan, that she was too old, that she was past her prime...and she wasnt even 35 yet! It infuriated her how dismissive and arrogant some of these people were. didnt they know that she set the style for the country for over a decade as the Signature Super Model of ILLUSTRA Inc!?>>

<< still, this was a new time and place, a new and fabulous opportunity made possible in large part by her friends at MAC. She was going to step out and show these people she still had it and THEN some. But what she didnt know was the fact that Claudia had arranged for something that would be LESS than helpfull to Morgan.>>

<< Morgan sat, looking in the large mirror in front of her. her reflection looked back, everything was in perfect...except...the MAN standing behind her chair! the tall, dark figure that had been menacing her before.>>

....what do you want?

<< she said in an icy voice.>>

Figure: I want YOU! << in a deep, sinister voice that dripped with evil.>> It's show time girl friend!

<< Morgan continued to face forward, looking at, THROUGH the reflection in the mirror.>>

Morgan: This is one of your TRICKS, Nicolas? Trying to SCARE me? Do you REALLY THINK that you can get away with this?

<< the figure comes forward and places his hands on her shoulders>>

Figure: I can...and I WILL, you little WITCH!

<< he grabs hold and rushes forward, intending to SMASH Morgan into the MIRROR, but in a FLASH, Morgan teleports via disc.>>

Morgan: not today, NOT EVER you psychotic bastard!

<< bolting for the door, Morgan is again accosted by the figure, he grabs her and pushes her into the wall, but Morgan pushes BACK, expanding as she ELBOWS him dead center on his chest and then spins around, PUNCHING him across the face with MORE than " a little" of her super strength.>>

You think just because I'm MADE UP that I'm too "dainty" to FIGHT BACK? You never COULD accept that I was a woman MORE than capable of defending herself against YOU, you son of a MONSTER!

<< she bellowed as she immediately hefted a large piece of lighting equipment in the room, far too heavy for any NORMAL human to carry!>>

GO TO HELL! and give my regards to your father...AND your mother when you get there!

<< she said with cruelty and VENGEANCE in her voice, as her face was now enshrouded in shadow and the large piece of equipment was held over her head. she HURLS it down on top of the figure, who only has time to flinche before he is smashed and buried by white hot light fixtures and thick metal!>>

<< but at that moment, the door to her dressing room OPENS, and we zoom from where Morgan stands to where the door is, as a set assistant stands, looking rather dismayed and confused as he stands...mouth agape. He JUST missed seeing this tall super model hefting a large chunk of metal, all he saw, and HEARD was the tremendous crash and electrical feedback...>>

Assistant: Miss Victoria!

<< he rushes forward, as Morgan, STARTLED by him, spins around, ready to attack before sure realizes...>>

its only a man...a human man...not the monster!

Assistant: << he checks over her.>> are you okay ma'am? shall i call the paramedics?

<< he was about to radio for help as set security came sweeping in as well.>>

DAMMIT! i shouldnt have been so...so savage with it. But i hate him...i HATE HIM! I want him to KNOW THAT! he can't FUCK WITH ME!

<< Morgan stood, doing her best to look suitably startled.>>

No...no it's okay....it just startled me that's all...one moment i was walking to the door and the next, i heard a creaking sound and the fixture came crashing down! but im fine!

<< after some initial survey of the scene, it was determined that it MUST have been an accident. no one could have imagined that SHE had done it. they werent aware that she was a super powered witch!>>

don't DO this now! don't let him RUIN this just because he's a psychotic piece of trash!

<< the hatred in her heart for Nicolas was almost as strong as her PSI SCREEN now...which is what Barbas WANTED and which was what CLAUDIA was unknowingly toying with. that girl may have been good at toying with others, but she was about to find out how BADLY a mistake she had made.>>

assistant: Miss Victoria, their ready to meet with you out on the sound stange for last minute prep and review...are you able to ...

Morgan: yes, yes I am...let's go.

<< technical crews and engineers stayed behind to examine and clean up the accident, while the FIGURE that had menaced her was now standing inside the mirror, laughing smugly. only MORGAN could hear the laughter and it sounded like...>>

Nicolas

<< she was unaware just how close at hand Nicolas would be!...but not for much longer.>>

<< out and down the hall, toward the sound stange she went, with security following her, until she met with the other female models who would be "background" and the director for the commercial as well as the lead photographer from liquid crystal. Morgan didnt see the others from MP just YET, not even Haleigh, which was rather disappointing to the sorceress.>>

 

[Rampage]

NIcolas sat at his chair, this part the most irritating to him. The makeup lady fussed over him, he brush flitting to and fro as it went. Admittedly it was a very light job as his skin was already flawless, but the fussing over him was not really his cup of tea. As she left, patting his shoulder as she exited, he closed his eyes and relaxed a moment as he waited for his time to come. He had a lot on his mind, or he would have already realized that MORGAN was the model he was working with but as he relaxed, he only picked up that she was very OLD for this business and was trying to hold on in spite of her fall from grace. Nicolas sighed and looked at the mirror in front of him. IN the reflection was SET!

That blonde cow will be your death my son. She will never see you for the do-gooder you try to be. Embrace me and we will put her to heel. Even the metal woman is still in your thrall. She only fucks the fleshling to forget about YOU.

Nicolas flinches at the comments, then narrows his eyes as he leans forward, his whispered voice low and harsh.

Go to hell...BARBAS. We will defeat you, you have no place here.

I don't? More like YOU don't. The Seer and the Amazon are fond of you NOW, but they will ALWAYS choose Morgan, even if she is wrong. And you will lay cold for it, as will Michael once his consort betrays him-

Say nothing of Mike demon. You will not get the better of me or of ANY of us today. Your fate is sealed.

Is it? We will see, godling. We will see...

Begone from me!!

The mirorred apparition fades away and Nicolas is once again cognizant of his surroundings. He sits back and tries to relax again, as he wants to make a good impression. With everything on his mind and the confrontation with Barbas, Nicolas has missed the scene on the other side of the building with Morgan. The more he works, the more he sends to his pet projects. With the new recession, his board has put more pressure on Nicolas to limit non-profit spending, and so he has complied. This shoot and the others he does will replace what he has diverted back to R & D and the core profit-making shipping endeavors of his businesses.

 

[MorningStar]

As Delilah arrived with the others and they were being ushered inside, she hung back a little. Her brow was furrowed in thought, in not knowing what she was going to say. But as the others went ahead inside to take their seats, Delilah motioned for Mike to hold up for a second.

"Mike. We have had our arguments in the past, as I'm sure we will in the future. We are never going to see eye to eye on the subject of Nicolas..."

She stopped - going down that road was doing no good for anyone.

"But we all see the way you have cared for Nicolas throughout his life - no less than any father could have."

She paused for a second, then inhaled sharply - this conversation visibily difficult for her.

"But if the young ones I'll be dealing with ever need help, I know I could trust them with you."

Embarassed, she moved to go in after the others, then turned back suddenly.

"But please understand this is something I'm working on for myself and I'm not saying I need any help right now..."

She broke off, then just nodded and went to take her seat.

 

[Arsenal]

Mike satisfied himself that the vehicle and driver were suitable and then he went back to help the ladies into the car. He took care helping all of them, not treating any one poorly, although his favor for Karen was evident.

The ride to the shoot was mostly quiet but not unpleasant. Mike had thought on what Alison had said and he was still satisfied that he could only do something about from now on, not necessarily the past. That thought gave him a moment of clarity about Ava and he looked out the window as his thought gave him a level of peace with what had occurred.

As they walked into the studio, Mike saw Delilah motion him over. he walked over and stood, appreciating that the mutant at least took the time to THINK before speaking. He listened as she spoke.

"Mike. We have had our arguments in the past, as I'm sure we will in the future. We are never going to see eye to eye on the subject of Nicolas..."

She stopped - going down that road was doing no good for anyone.

"But we all see the way you have cared for Nicolas throughout his life - no less than any father could have."

She paused for a second, then inhaled sharply - this conversation visibily difficult for her.

"But if the young ones I'll be dealing with ever need help, I know I could trust them with you."

Mike was struck at the kindness of her words, the thoughtfulness of them.

Thank you, Delilah. If you decide that I can be useful, I will do my very best to help.

Embarassed, she moved to go in after the others, then turned back suddenly.

"But please understand this is something I'm working on for myself and I'm not saying I need any help right now..."

Of course not. I just wanted you to know that I think what you are trying to do is important and that support is what family is for, even if we don't always see eye to eye. I am still here.

He nodded back to the young mutant and them went to sit by Karen, kissing her cheek as he sat down and taking her hand into his.

I did not pay attention to these before Doc, i was always working. This should be exciting...

 

[Siren]

After a disheartening conversation with her sister, Claudia decided to head to the photoshoot earlier than planned. She needed a bit of a pick me up after what happened with Clara, and seeing Morgan's face after realizing she had to work with Nicolas would definitely help her mood.

Arriving at the sound stage, Claudia saw Morgan and a few of the female models standing around the beautifully decorated set awaiting for the last minute touches to be made before the photoshoot could begin. Handing her purse to a MAC intern, Claudia headed over to where Morgan stood, giving her a smile.

"You look fantastic, Morgan. And this set is amazing."

Looking around the sound stage, she didn't notice Nicolas anywhere in sight. Narrowing her eyes, Claudia returned her attention to Morgan.

"I'm going to go see what's taking the male model so long so we can get this show on the road. I'll be right back."

Heading off toward the back of the sound stage where the dressing rooms were kept, Claudia stopped one of the makeup artists that was passing by and asked which room Nicolas was in. Walking down the long hallway, Claudia finally came upon Nicolas' dressing room. Tapping her knuckles against the door, she didn't bother to wait for Nicolas to respond before cracking the door open and peeking her head inside. Seeing Nicolas facing the mirror [his reflection allowing him to see Claudia enter] she gave him a saultry smile as she opened it a bit further and stood in the doorway.

"Hey handsome. Don't you look dashing."

Claudia smiled mischeviously, entering his dressing room and heading over to where he sat. Positioning herself in front of his mirror [so she were between him and the vanity] Claudia rested her backside against the edge of the vanity casually, looking him over. He was wearing a tailored suite that looked amazing on him. Sculpted perfectly to his body. Leaning forward, Claudia picked up his tie with her finger tips, adjusting it for him.

"Nervous?"

Looking directly into Nicolas' equally dark brown eyes, Claudia slyly smiled; whether or not she was talking about the photoshoot or their close proximity wasn't clear. Smoothing the tie down his chest with her hand, she leaned back giving him back his 'personal space'.

"There...much better."

 

[Rampage]

"Hey handsome. Don't you look dashing."

Hey yourself, lady. And you look great in your OWN right. Are you my co-star?

The mutant joked lightly with her as she parked her nicely shaped rear on the vanity in front on him and took the very PERSONAL step of adjusting his tie. Her scents filled his nose and he just relaxed a bit as she moved her hands over his chest.

"Nervous?"

Nope. I work well in tight spots.

His response playfully giving its own double meaning. He leaned forward as she leaned back, his hand lightly brushing her leg in JUST the right place.

"There...much better."

Thanks for the assist. Seriously Claudia, I am glad you are OK. I take it you are here to make sure I do my job today. Well, tell me where to be, BOSS.

Nicolas chuckles as he speaks with her again. he is enjoying this shoot so far more than almost anything he's done in a while...

 

[Black Widow]

Barbas: Feeling a little under the weather, Black Widow?

"Fuck OFF Barbas."

Haleigh responds aloud, sitting forward in her chair, her elbows propped up on her desk as she gently massaged her temples with the pads of her fingers, her eyes closed.

Barbas: Are you SURE you aren't pregnant? I could've had SO much FUN with THAT.

"I'm NOT pregnant, I'm just experiencing some technical glitches. It's nothing to worry about, and it's nothing you can SCARE me with."

Barbas: You remember the LAST time you were glitching, don't you? Rick Riley was utilizing some backdoor Mystech programming to wrench self-control from you.

"Rick Riley is DEAD… and I NEUTRALIZED that Trojan program, it's no longer a threat."

Barbas: OR so you THINK. What if there's ANOTHER 'virus' that's been laying dormant? What if it's MALICE who's behind it this time? You KNOW that woman has been out to get you since she tried to kill you and a little GIRL and got your father instead. What if she's been biding her time but this time she's going to GET YOU?

"WHAT IF I RIP YOUR EYEBALLS OUT OF YOUR SKULL AND DROP THEM IN THIS BLENDER?"

She asks, manifesting a blender and patting it lovingly. He doesn't respond, and Haleigh's assistant opens the door, a confused look on his face.

Assistant: "Miss Davidoff? I KNEW I heard someone in here… but I didn't see you come in… Aren't you going to the MAC shoot? We sent the camera crew a hour ago. It's scheduled to start in ten minutes… Shall I have a car brought round for you?"

He looks at her, then at the blender sitting right in front of her… and he appears to think it's strange, but clearly he knows better than to say anything about it. Haleigh stands up slowly, picking up the blender with a slight smile.

"I got more than one of these as an apartment warming gift. Could you put it in the employee lounge for me? [as she hands it to him, he takes it and nods] Thank you, Matthew. A car won't be necessary. I'll drive myself."

He nodded and headed to the lounge with the blender… she watched him until he was out of sight and then disappeared, reappearing at the place where the photo shoot was being held, in a broom closet from which she surreptitiously emerged so as not to be spotted. She headed down the corridor with a quick stride so that she'd have time to approve everything before the shoot started. Morgan was there… as were most of the other female models, and pretty much all the technical crew. Haleigh greeted her photographer, shaking his hand and giving him instructions to relay to the lighting crew about placement of the floor based lighting. She made eye contact with Morgan from across the room, and gave the sorceress a smile and a small nod of acknowledgement.

 

[Firebird]

Having a huge adoration for fashion and designer brands in general, Blaze was rather excited for Morgan. She knew her sister had been struggling since her fall out from fashion. The fire elemental could tell her sister craved the spotlight and why wouldn't she? All the glitz, glamour, beauty, and the priceless clothing. Secretly, Blaze was thrilled yet envious at the same time. But, if anyone worked hard to be back it was Morgan. She had put her modeling career on hold for the team. Blaze would whole heartedly support her anyway she could.

Glancing around the building after arriving from the limo. Curiously, looking around to see a swarm of people walking along the interior of the building. "Oh my God!" Blaze recognized a few of the 'background' models from a few magazines, music video's, and other photo shoots. There were be a whole entourage of people there including photographers, press, personal assistants, etc.

Blaze couldn't wait to see how her sister look, just so she could show up Nicolas! Silently rooting for Morg while she was being prepped for the shoot. Even if they couldn't see Morgan yet, Blaze knew her sister was just thriving on the attention. Little did the frisky fire elemental realize they would also be seeing Nicolas as well. Talk about raining down on Morg's parade. You had to love Claudia.