Family Reunion

[Seer]

<< Hillcrest.>>

<< Ava, Delilah and Nicolas were shocked upon Dr. Starr informing them that a private reprimand would be entered on their records. Not because this was more of her DRACONIAN punishment that she was famous for, but rather that this was ALL. She didnt yell at or berate them. She even allowed Nicolas to SLIDE on what would normally have been a balatant probation violation. She simply admonished them not to do it again or risk SEVERE consequence. They were also not to mention a word of it to anyone, lest the other student body think they were being given preferential treatment.>>

<< the students werent quite sure what to make of their "fortune" but were smart enough to take it and "run", specifically to class.>>

<< Now, later in the afternoon, the core were in Miss Grey's Literature & Folklore class. A class that was seemingly unessential, but a world of mutants also had prooven to have monsters and other creatures considered MYTH and the students had to understand their historical significance and impact. Miss Grey, herself was known for being attached to a creature of legend, the PHOENIX.>>

<< Courtney and Delilah sit side by side, just off of a large window. Nicolas sits in the middle row and Ava two over from him to the right.>>

<< having escaped what should have been the withering wrath of Dr. Starr, the four process the events in their own individual way...while Miss Grey is lecturing, going over the story that everyone in the class should have read the night before.>>

<< as she continues, Courtney sits at her desk, brooding while Nicolas takes every moment he can to make cute and sometimes flirty, even lude faces at Ava, who in turn tries not to laugh out loud. Miss Grey moves about the room, talking to the class, before finally making her way up to the front again.>>

Miss Grey: and so, in keeping with your reading assignment last night, who can tell me the significance of Victor and Elizabeth?

<< slowly pacing in front of the class, Miss Grey has already noted Nicolas' attempts at entertaining/flirting with Ava and Ava's amusement.>>

Miss Grey: Anyone? C'mon class...it's FRAHNkenSTEIN!

<< after a few moments>>

Miss Grey: AVA! How about you? Tell us, what is the tragedy here that we can all take from Victor and Eliabeth?

<< Miss Grey calls on Ava, and keeps her green eyes fixed on NICOLAS>>

Miss Grey: Nicolas, save the theatrics. You can hardly afford ANOTHER "tragedy" of your own.

<< the class oohs softly as Nicolas is chided into silence>>

Miss Grey: Ava? enlighten us will you?

<< even as Ava struggled to save face and avoid a demerit or worse, a ZERO for the day, Delilah couldnt help but smirk a bit. Would Ava and Nicolas EVER quit? Still, Miss Grey handled the situation fairly enough.>>

<< Delilah had expected COURTNEY to be called out, given the girl's visible utter detachment from the class or even the world at hand. She turns to look at her friend once more, concern in her heart, when something else catches her eye.>>

<< in the window of the wall where Courtney sat by, outside on Hillcrest grounds. There amongst the flowing leafy canopies of weeping willow trees in the autumn breeze, Delilah spots something...someONE.>>

<< and as Ava answered Miss Grey, Delilah was now suitably distracted as she couldnt take her eyes off the curious figure.>>

 

[The Shape]

Outsider

<< Courtney sits, framed by the window. The view of her flashes and with each flash, it becomes more distant until we reach the point of view of the OTHER person watching her beside Delilah.>>

How still she sits, like a fawn in the den, blissfully unaware of the danger that stalks her.

From a fair distance, he stands. The flowing leaves of the weeping willows merely add to his haunting presence.

He stands like a grim statue with no movement. No expression in his black soulless eyes and his eerie featureless white mask.

How long had it been since he laid eyes on his SISTER. How much had she changed. But it didnt matter.

The moment he discovered she was alive, the 20 year,multistate gap would be closed.

Slow and steady wins the race.

It also wins the HUNT.

And so there he stands, watching Courtney, unconcerned that her little friend Delilah has spotted him.

The moment she broke visual contact and then looked back to see him again, he would not be there.

 

[MorningStar]

Frankenstein was one of Delilah's favorite books AND movies, and normally Delilah would have been diving right into Miss Grey's lesson, but today she just wasn't in the mood. She hated that they got caught, she hated that Courtney was having such a hard time, and she especially hated that it had been Courtney's mother that had caught them.

She let her mind wander. She wished she could put her finger on what was going on between Courtney and Carole. She sighed...it was a bad situation all around. Her eyes drifted to the window and the street below.

There was a MAN staring up at them! Delilah sat up straighter in her chair. He was wearing one of those rubber Halloween masks...a little early for an adult to be dressing up, Delilah thought. He didn't move, he just stared, his eyes looking like two black holes behind the white of the mask. She shivered, crossing her arms across her chest and rubbing them to warm herself, glancing down as she did so. Ava was still fumbling to answer the teacher's question.

She turned her attention back towards the window, but the strange figure was gone...

 

[Persephone]

The whole group had dodged a huge bullet with only getting notes in their permanent records. Starr could have suspended them, expelled them, KILLED them. Either way, she was glad that Courtney's mother went easy on them. But it was also odd that she DID go so easy on them....regardless, Ava wasn't complaining, or about to question it. So here she sat, in Lit and Folk class, bored out of her freakin' mind semi wishing at this point that she had been suspended.

With a roll of her eye and a soft sigh, Miss Grey was going on and on about Frankenstein almost causing Ava to drift off to sleep when she felt a drawing sensation on her upper thigh. Glancing over, Nicolas was using his pencil to trace up Ava's thigh to the hem of her skirt, and drag it upwards. Stifling a laugh, Ava slapped his pencil away shaking her head.

"I didn't know an old creepy green dude [Frankenstein] was such an aphrodisiac for you."

Grinning, Ava couldn't help but laugh, trying to keep it as silent as possible. But Nicolas said a comment about Elizabeth's "fine ass" being the aphrodisiac and how he'd "send some sparks between her bolts" which caused the entire section of students they were sitting near bust out laughing quietly. Ava couldn't help but laugh herself, dipping her head enough so her face was hidden behind the student's body that was sitting in front of her.

"Shut up, Nic. You're going to get us kicked ou--"

Miss Grey: AVA!

Hearing her name, Ava instinctively sat upright like a deer in the headlights.

"Huh?"

Miss Grey: How about you? Tell us, what is the tragedy here that we can all take from Victor and Eliabeth?

"...Uhh.."

Miss Grey: Ava? enlighten us will you?

"..Well...Victor was totally responsible for Elizabeth's death.....I mean, he was so full of fear and doubt that he was ineffective. And really, the monster made that clear by killing off everyone he loved and saving Elizabeth for last."

With an almost relieved smile, she could tell that she thwarted Miss Grey's little plan to make an example out of her. Sometimes Ava even surprised herself at how amazing she was at covering her ass!

 

[Seer]

in the classroom

<<It seemed there was plenty of distraction, both within and without Miss Grey's class. on the grounds of Hillcrest this late afternoon, as Delilah caught sight of a man with a featureless white face...a MASK...standing outside, STARING at her and Courtney.>>

<< Even at a place like Hillcrest on a day such as this [Halloween] He seemed peculiar. A member of the faculty wouldnt dress like that. Could it be another student? It was hard to tell from the distance but he was of a larger stature than even Nicolas.>>

<< He stares at them with those black holes where EYES should be. It's enough to bother Delilah, who is normally quite calm in the face of unusual things, after all, she WAS close to Courtney, who was often regarded as unusual or downright SCAREY by most of the student body but THIS? She had good reason to feel as she did, more than she could possibly know.>>

<< With one look away, she finds that the peculiar man has disappeared from sight.>>

<< At least not in the previous spot. NOW he was standing CLOSER , just ahead of the weeping willow trees that had once surrounded him. still unmoving. still peculiar. still STARING at them both. Delilah got a slightly closer look and it prooved to be no more comforting than the first.>>


<< Meanwhile, there was plenty of peculiar behavior IN the class room, as Nicolas, once again resumed his class clown antics AND managed to combine that with inuendo and double entendre, much to the guilty amusement of Ava and those nearby.>>

<< Miss Grey, however, was not having it and as she caught Ava unaware and chided Nicolas, Ava prooved once again to be quite adept at covering quickly. But Miss Grey was not done yet.>>


Miss Grey: Hmmm. Very GOOD, Ava.

<< Miss Grey said knowingly, now having walked down the aisle between Ava and Nicolas, Miss Grey telekinetically REMOVES Nicolas' pen AND his notebook, which was still on the page featuring the naughty drawings he'd taken to creating, from his desk. She lifts them up to her, casting a displeased glare at Nicolas and shaking her head.>>

Miss Grey: That will be quite enough of THAT, Picasso.

<< now it was HIS turn to be the laughter he so often sought to evoke from his class mates until Miss Grey lifts her hand, gesturing for silence.>>


Miss Grey: AND Ava, WHY do you think Victor, was FINALLY able to confront his monster?

<< waiting to see how well Ava would get by THIS time >>


<< by the time Ava scrambled to answer THIS question, Delilah considered informing Miss Grey of the strange man outside the window, but again, as Delilah looked away for only a moment, when she turned back to the window, he was GONE. This time no where in sight.>>

<< and all the while, Courtney continues to remain detached from all of this. Unaware that the creature Delilah saw was the very thing that haunted her and her mother coming back for a grim family reunion!>>

 

[Persephone]

Miss Grey: AND Ava, WHY do you think Victor, was FINALLY able to confront his monster?

More confident this time, Ava looked directly up at Miss Grey who stood next to her with Nicolas' note book in hand.

"Victor finally reached his point where he had nothing left. The monster had killed everyone that he cared about and he had no choice but to stand his ground and fight. It was his fate to confront him. It was redemption."

The first couple of weeks after Ava had started at Hillcrest, students and teachers automatically assumed she was just a ditzy, pretty face. No substance, just stupid. People quickly discovered that Ava was extremely intelligent in and out of the classroom. She took her studies seriously, though most of the time it wasn't stimulating enough for her so she became bored and skipped class. So everyone in class wasn't surprised when she answered Miss Grey's question with ease and accuracy.

"I'd do the same damn thing. When you have nothing left to lose, you have everything to gain."

 

[Spellbinder]

Miss Grey's class

Victor finally reached his point where he had nothing left. The monster had killed everyone that he cared about and he had no choice but to stand his ground and fight. It was his fate to confront him. It was redemption.

<<Courtney, by this time, had looked up. The shadowed countenance over her face was gone and she seemed to be back "in reality" and connected to her surroundings.>>

<< she'd been aware to some degree of the discussion at hand, only for her, the monster wasnt big, green and lumbering, it was a man...a large man. A mutant super predator who happened to be HER brother.>>

<< She heard Ava's second response and it made her think. her mind immediately flashed to something Ororo had said only hours earlier>>

<<FLASH>>

An unquiet spirit, roams this realm. It...HE...is an abomination to all that would live and breathe. He moves with slow, unwavering focus and determination...

To close the wounds of the past, to PREVENT new wounds and bloodshed...you must open your eyes and your heart.

<<FLASH>>

All things must be accounted for in one's life in order to have any sense of peace, clarity and order.

As the day passes and darkness approaches, The time is coming for your mother and you to truly face and close a dark chapter in your lives

<< Courtney looked rather pensive as Ava's words lead her back to Ororo's words. She blinked a few times before looking over at Delilah, who looked absolutely bewildered about something. But what??>>


<< at the same time...>>

"I'd do the same damn thing. When you have nothing left to lose, you have everything to gain."

<< It was as if Ava had just pulled from Courtney...MORGAN'S heart, what she was feeling! That was where she was and that's why she stood her ground as she did to her mother today. Yes it was PAINFULL as hell for both of them, but in the end...it had to happen. Courtney...MORGAN couldnt go on like this and neither could her mother. Enough was enough.>>

it couldnt be...not after all this time. COULD IT!? but that means....

<< and...then, BACK to Ororo. Courtney...MORGAN knew deep down what Ororo was referring to. It made her PALE in the face to think about BUT if this was the case...the time was coming that she'd HAVE to do what she wasnt able to all those years ago. But THIS time, she was beginning to allow herself to believe she'd have HELP and support!>>

<< coming to terms with ones fate, especially when its something like this, is not easy but the more Courtney dwelled on it, the further she felt herself distancing from the FACADE of "COURTNEY" as MORGAN struggled to rassert, LIBERATE herself.>>

<< Ava had unknowingly done Courtney a favor with her quick responses, bolstering Ororo's words of wisdom and encouragement.>>

 

[Rampage]

Class. Literature. With fine-ass Ms. Grey talking about fine-ass Elizabeth with punk-ass but brilliant Victor Frankenstein.

Nicolas always killed in class. His powers as they matured helped him, but he was naturally a voracious reader and slept little. SO he usually took class time to cut up since he had already learned at the dorm.

He was trying to improve his view up Ava's skirt with a pen while drawing a pic of them in various sexual positions. That combined with him licking his lips whenever he caught her eye had Ava both laughing and pretty much hot and bothered. Tonight would be a good night.

He was also batting a two-fer as he was making comments that had his row ROLLING. As Ava whispered a rebuff, he struck.

"I didn't know an old creepy green dude [Frankenstein] was such an aphrodisiac for you."

Forget the green guy...if I had Elizabeth's fine ass to inspire me like Vic, I would place my own ' black lightning' between her bolts.

People were rolling, trying to stay quiet. And then Ms. Grey struck, taking his drawing book and asking away at Ava.

Hmmm. Very GOOD, Ava.
<< Miss Grey said knowingly, now having walked down the aisle between Ava and Nicolas, Miss Grey telekinetically REMOVES Nicolas' pen AND his notebook, which was still on the page featuring the naughty drawings he'd taken to creating, from his desk. She lifts them up to her, casting a displeased glare at Nicolas and shaking her head.>>

Miss Grey: That will be quite enough of THAT, Picasso.

<< now it was HIS turn to be the laughter he so often sought to evoke from his class mates until Miss Grey lifts her hand, gesturing for silence.>>

He smiled his winning smile and gave a deep nod of respect. Grey was FINE AND could handle him. IF not for Ava, he might have had to take his shot...and hope he didn't get reduced to a blubbering brainless mass by the superior telepath/TK.

Ava made him proud with her response, cool as the other side of the pillow. He blew a kiss at Ava as Ms. Grey sashayed back up to the front of class. He cleared his throat.

Ms. Grey, can I have my drawings back? I need them for...uhhhh....BIOLOGY.

He flashed his winning smile again, unaware as to the danger outside...

 

[MorningStar]

Nicolas was putting on a show - as usual.

Ms. Grey, can I have my drawings back? I need them for...uhhhh....BIOLOGY.

Delilah couldn't help but laugh. She smiled over at Ava before glancing out of the window again. And there he was!

The creepy man had moved closer - was he like them, that he could disappear and reappear so quickly? She shifted in her seat trying to get a better look. Something was wrong. Delilah could feel it, as sure as she'd ever been about anything.

She started to stand up and raised her hand.

"Ms. Grey!"

The teacher turned her attention away from Nicolas and looked at Delilah.

"There's a-"

Delilah looked back at the trees below, and once again, the man was gone.

"Uh- there was- oh nevermind."

She sat back down, dejected, not wanted to look irrational. But the feeling of wrongness did not go away.

 

[Seer]

and so

<< No one said being bright or gifted meant one would be an angel. None of the "core" that we've been watching could be described as an angel, BUT Ava once again manages to redeem herself prooving she's not just a pretty face nor is she too wrapped up in mischief with Nicolas that she can't handle a grand insquisition by Miss Grey!>>

<< the class gets a laugh as Miss Grey chides Nicolas even as Ava manages to redeem herself.>>

Miss Grey: Well done, Ava.

<< the telepath/telekinetic looks down at the young elemental with a knowing smile. Ava knew Miss Grey had been on to her and Nicolas the whole time.>>

Miss Grey: and from Ava's spot on observation, you should all understand that as mutants, we will face things, people, situations that will test us, even threaten us and those we care for or fight along side but we must NOT be crippled by fear or shame of who we are and what we can do. we must recognize our path, our fate and prepare, ACT accordingly. your own individual lives, the lives ofyour fellow students/potential teammates or innocents may depend on it.

<< Miss Grey looks over at Courtney, who clearly has not had the best day but at the moment looks far less pensive than she did earlier. It's known and documented that Courtney's mind is completely closed to all forms of telepathy/psychic contact regardless of the power level of the telepath. It's an EXCELLENT standing defense but it can also be a problem if a person should need HELP.>>

<< the class took in Miss Grey's final thought on their lesson for today and it was time to wrap up.>>

He cleared his throat.

Ms. Grey, can I have my drawings back? I need them for...uhhhh....BIOLOGY.

He flashed his winning smile again, unaware as to the danger outside...

<< Miss Grey looks upon Nicolas with a bit of a smirk>>

Miss Grey: Oh REALLY? << still holding on to the notebook in her pink hued telekinetic field>> "Biology" << said in a humourous mocking tone>> indeed!

<< the class laughs again>>

She started to stand up and raised her hand.

"Ms. Grey!"

Miss Grey: Yes, Delilah?

The teacher turned her attention away from Nicolas and looked at Delilah.

"There's a-"

Delilah looked back at the trees below, and once again, the man was gone.

<< the class looked a bit puzzled at Delilah. Miss Grey looked with concern.>>

Miss Grey: Are you alright, Delilah? You look as though something's troubling you?

"Uh- there was- oh nevermind."

She sat back down, dejected, not wanted to look irrational. But the feeling of wrongness did not go away.

<< the bell rang.>>

<< With nothing more said, Miss Grey just assumed it was youthfull hormones and turmoil mixed with anticipation for the weekend retreat. She smiled at Delilah, hoping everything was alright. She couldnt have been more wrong, but sadly, she'd never know.>>

Miss Grey: Alright class dismissed. Don't forget the weekend retreat pre-boarding assembly in the auditorium is in 10 minutes! attendance by ALL students is mandatory, whether you're going on the retreat or not.

<< as the students headed out, Miss Grey called out to>>

Miss Grey: Nicolas! << standing in front of her desk & leaning back, slightly sitting on the front end of it, she locks her green eyes on him and takes a more serious tone>> Not in my class anymore, okay? << a simple but no less serious reprimand as she TK's his notebook across the room over to him.>> Now scoot, kiddo.

<< she waves him off.>>

<< and with that, the day wears on.>>

<< the late afternoon begins to crackle with excitment as HALLOWEEN for the students at Hillcrest is vastly different than for those "flatscans" on the outside. DIFFERENT, maybe even FUN for most...but for at least TWO there, not so much.>>

<< the Hillcrest student body has now gathered in the auditorium. on the stage, Dr. Starr and the Hillcrest faculty along with Seargent Detective Michael Armstrong are present. Dr. Starr will address the student body before releasing them with early dismissal to begin boarding the buses for the weekend retreat.>>

<< amongst the audience we soon find Ava and Delilah seated together, discussing some last minute details of their ultra exclusive halloween party. They are among the precious few who will be Hillcrest "remains", staying behind. Nicolas hurries in, hoping over and into his seat next to Ava, he avoids being "the late one", especially knowing Dr. Starr would easily notice his untimely arrival. When they ask if he's seen Courtney, he mentions there was no sign of her but even as Delilah expresses concern, Ava points out that Courtney was probably "moving" all the "STUFF" (liquor etc) to the party spot via disc and if ANYONE could beat the clock to avoid a late arrival, its her.>>

<< the three would chat amongst themselves a bit more before Dr. Starr finally began her formal address to the student body. they had had quite the day, these ones we're watching, and things were only going to get more interesting as late afternoon gave way to evening.>>

<< the innocence of youth would soon be replaced with something all together different.>>

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah sat at the back of the auditorium with her feet up on the back of the seat in front of her. Her head leant on her right hand.

"This is bullshit!"

She picked her head up and gestured with her hand.

"We have shit to do, and we're not going on the damn fieldtrip. Why are they wasting our time like this?"

Getting caught that afternoon, then the creepy guy, then this crap was seriously taking its toll on Delilah's mood. She looked at her watch for the hundredth time.

"Come on, could we get this overwith already?!"

 

[Persephone]

Delilah: Why are they wasting our time like this?

"Because Dr. Starr is a sadist."

Ava deadpanned as she craned her stiff neck to the side. Delilah was frustrated, but Ava was just bored. She wanted this stupid meeting to be over with so the real fun could start. But it seemed like ever since the group got caught by Dr. Starr the day had been dragging sooo slowly.

Casually glancing over, Ava watched as Nicolas "slyly" snuck into the auditorium before taking a seat.

"And he's apparently a masochist."

Deadpanning once again. Grunting out, Ava dropped her head onto Delilah's shoulder, further showing her utter lack of interest.

"What I wouldn't give to control time right about now."

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas rolls into the assembly and sits by Ava, who seems despondent to even BE here.

"What I wouldn't give to control time right about now."

Now you could do some CRAZY stuff with that. C'mon, cheer up baby, Superman has entered the building.

Nicolas winks at the ladies and settles in, just thinking to ride this little meeting out and then PLAYTIME!!!

 

[Arsenal]

Just ONE more meeting...

Mike was ready to wrap this all up and then he could spend an entire weekend talking with Carole, trying to help her, and perhaps more. Shit, a man had needs and his had gone lacking in this relationship. He'd had offers but he had stayed good...but his will was waning. HE had not wanted to seem cruel earlier when they had spoken but at some point the physical issue in their relationship would need to be addressed.

So he stood to one side as the assembly convened, waiting for the final formalities before the long weekend and hoping that he could find a way to help his girlfriend trust him enough to open up to him...literally as well as figuratively. :makeout:

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Headmistress addressing Hillcrest

<< the students were gathered, the super powered faculty assembled on stage behind her & Dr. Starr looked out amongst the student body.>>

<< this was such a diverse, gifted group of kids & they would enrich their society & the world over as time passed & they progressed into adulthood thanks to the tutelage and guidance of an amazing, accomplished, POWERFULL faculty.>>

<< this school had managed to do what Carole...KAREN had felt she'd utterly FAILED at in her own personal life, nurture, guide & shephard children into young adulthood, ready for the world with confidence & competence.>>

<< No...one of HER babies was DEAD, the other a mute, sociopathic mutant, murdering super predator and the third? well Carole...KAREN had all but LOST her irrational and overprotective grip on her as of earlier this afternoon.>>

<< Dr. Carole Starr felt she herself was an utter FAILURE. The students respected and some even feared her, the faculty regarded her as an accomplished sorceress and respected psychotherapist but no amount of external affirmation or accolade could ease the ongoing pain of guilty and sorry...of FEAR that loomed inside her and all around her mind like a fog.>>

<< a quick conversation with Ms. Ororo Monroe draws Dr. Starr's attention and gaze away from the students.>>

<< soon, she rose from her seat and approached the podium. looking out amongst the students, she spoted Ava, Delilah, Nicolas and Courtney [who, unbeknownst to Carole had JUST appeared next to Delilah via stepping disc.] Her opal blue eyes lingered on these four. They were among the STANDOUTS of the student body. Four OMEGA level mutants who powers and the levels they would reach gave them the potential to affect things on perhaps a GLOBAL level at some point in their lives.>>

<< and yet for all their power and potential, they were still kids. young, inexperienced but still ready for the world in that youthfull, impetuous way. Courtney had found something with her friends, Ava, Delilah and even Nicolas that Carole and she BOTH feared forever lost with the tragic, gruesome deaths of her original childhood friends>>

FLASH

<< many years ago.>>

<< flashing images of A very young MORGAN, with her best friend ALISON, Alison's naughty younger brother CAMERON and his girlfriend, HALEIGH. They lived in the same neighborhood, grew up together, played, laughed & went to school together.>>

<<then in one night, Morgan's brother took them ALL away from her neither Alycia, nor Karen could save them.
>>
<< As hard as Courtney thought her mother was on her, as much of a hardass as the OTHERS thought Carole was...NONE of them knew how HARSH she was on herself, how unforgiving she was of HERSELF.>>

<<sigh>>

my dear court....MORGAN

<< Carole looks a bit pensive as she stands before the students who are buzzing and chattering amongst themselves. finally she looks more like her usual stern self and turns on the mic and clears her throat.>>

Students. In less than an hour, the luxury charter buses will be ready for you to board and they will carry you to the weekend retreat!

<< claps, cheers and whistles come from the students, student eager for a break>>

and now the time has come for me to issue my obligatory plea that you all uphold the standards of Hillcrest.

And THAT means...

<< looking over to a young Jamie Maddrox>>

NO musical slepping bags.

<< Jamie...AND his clones all groan in unison as others around them giggle and poke fun at him for being called out>>

NO booze

<< looking over to Alexis Quatermaine , who was more than a bit of a "PARTY GIRL", in keeping with her energy based powers.>>

NO DRUGS.

<< this elicits the loudest amounts of moaning, groaning , to which Dr. Starr firmly interrupts.>>

NO KIDDING!

<< suddenly banging her large gavel, causing some to jolt with a start as they all hush themselves>>

Undoubtedly there will be SOME among you who will TRY and ultimately ruin for the rest, which is one of the reasons why the entire faculty will be accompanying you, to chaparone.

<< she looks out among the students, her gaze slowly shifting amongst the crowd>>

But its not just about that. You all work hard and you deserve to be able to play hard as well. But as you go out to this resort, know that you will be amongst the normal genetic baseline humans, some of whom are limited in their thinking and might not respond well to the sudden revelation of mutants in their midst. The faculty will be there to ensure your safety as well as those around you.

You are gifted and will soon enrich the communities you move into once you leave Hillcrest and even the world over. We want to make sure you get to that point as we are all confident you will.

With that....have a good time!

<< in a rare moment, Carole Starr smiles at the students, winks and singnals them to head out to their dorms, grab their bags and begin boarding. most students rush out with cheers and whoops of excitement.>>

<< Carole Starr has opted to remain behind this weekend, "to catch up on paper work.>>

FLASH

<< a week earlier, in a private moment between Carole and Michael>>

Michael: And why arent you going on the weekend retreat, Dr. Starr? << asked in a knowing tone>>

Carole: Because it sounds like FUN, Sergeant Detective Armstrong. << responded to in rather facetious tone as she doesnt look up from her desk>> And you?

Michael: Someone will have to check on the "Hillcrest remains" ...and the good doctor to make sure she's alright.

Carole: Somehow I doubt that your motives are THAT alturistic.

<< they share a knowing smirk and look between them. it was one of the few light hearted moments they managed to steal for themselves.>>

<< Michael hoped this would be a time talk and get CLOSER to Carole. He KNEW she was on the verge of opening up and after all the work he'd done to help coax her to this point, he'd be damned if he'd miss this crucial opportunity with the woman he loved and who found herself loving him.>>

<< then there were those "hillcrest remains", those precious FEW students who for various reasons, including disciplinary issues [as Nicolas knew all too well] would not be going. it would be no less an interesting weekend for them, though they managed to keep it a secret from Dr. Starr.>>

<< for now though...after wishing the faculty farewell, Dr. Starr walks across the stage, reaching Michael, who was finishing a conversation with Mr. Summers.>>

I'll meet you outside my office in an hour, Detective Armstrong.

<< smiling a bit as she excused herself.>>

<< down the stairs to the main floor, she walks up the aisle toward Ava, Delilah, Nicolas and Courtney who had been standing together, chatting. Waiting for the right moment to cut in...>>

<< clearing her throat>>

I beg your pardon, students.

Courtney, I'd like to see you in my office.

<< the others looked at Courtney and then Dr. Starr with concern. She noted their curious stares.>>

Well don't stand there staring, best foot forward!

<< she said as she waved her hand to get them to move along>>

spit spot!

<< herding them outside- Ava, Delilah and Nicolas noticed a slight difference in Carole's demeanor. Although still commanding, She seemed...calmer?>>

<< and then walked past them, heading across the courtyard to the building where her office was located. she looked back briefly and called to her daughter>>

My office, Courtney!

<< her tone was no less direct but didnt seem as SHARP or ANGRY as usual.>>

 

[Spellbinder]

here and there

Ava: christ, COURTNEY! Are you TRYING to get your mother to turn us all into toads here in the auditorium!?

<< Ava quietly "shrieks" at Courtney who, just SECONDS after Carole had turned her head from staring at them, suddenly appeared in the seat next to Delilah via stepping disc! she was even LATER than Nicolas!>>

<< Courtney looked at Ava and feigned distress as she "fanned" herself with one of her hands>>

Calm down, Scarlett O'hara! My mother is too preoccupied AND I [used a scrying spell to know the right moment to] arrive JUST "on time."

<< winking at them. her stepping discs certainly DID come in handy but THEY all knew just how big a bullet they dodged today after getting caught by Carole on Charles Steet in downtown Beacon Hill. Courtney took the fall for them and it turned out to be one HELL of a fallout but now...Courtney seemed a bit in better spirits.>>

Besides. I was moving the stuff to the designated place for this evenings festivities??

<< Courtney's mother gave her speech. It didnt sound exactly like the magna carta, which is what most of them were expecting to hear. Instead it sounded rather...unsual...NORMAL even. Even the tone of her mother's voice was different.>>

<< looking over to Delilah>>

My mother seems to be in a generous mood since this afternoon. I wonder if she's planed to bind me in mystic chains for the weekend and just hasnt said anything.

<< after the address and official dismissal, the four remain behind, letting the others rush out. sure they were going to have their fun and courtney had WANTED so badly to go to the salem witches ball, but now, it seemed that things had turned out for the best. spending time with her FRIENDS was the better way to go after all.>>

Delilah: so...assuming your mother DOESN'T bind you in mystic chains << trying to sound lighthearted about that, even though they all felt like Carole was capable of going that far>> did you finally pick out a costume?

Nicolas: That witch costume that Samantha Stevens wore...

<< Delilah slaps Nicolas' arm and shushes him as he once again tries to make a WITCH joke. Courtney rolls her eyes.>>

Oh shut up, Nicolas.

<< though she hardly sounds perturbed this time.>>

No...I hadnt really, Dee. Halloween isnt really something I...got into growing up...for

FLASH

<< a terrifying, IN YOUR FACE VIEW of "THE SHAPE" surrounded by HELLFIRE>>

...various reasons... but maybe this little

<< clearing her throat>>

I beg your pardon, students.

Courtney, I'd like to see you in my office.

<< Courtney slowly exhaled, turning around to see her mother. they ALL saw her, standing there before them much like she had when she caught them on Charles St.>>

Sure thing, Mom.

<< the others looked with concern>>

<< the others looked at Courtney and then Dr. Starr with concern. She noted their curious stares.>>

Well don't stand there staring, best foot forward!

<< she said as she waved her hand to get them to move along>>

spit spot!

<< herding them outside- Ava, Delilah and Nicolas noticed a slight difference in Carole's demeanor. Although still commanding, She seemed...calmer?>>

<< Her mom gently ushers them along, they move outside and she walks past them, when she's several paces ahead, Courtney turns , apparently about to follow when...>>

Ava: Maybe she saw you're not so subtle LATE arrival after all, Courtney.

Trust me, she DIDN'T. It's...

<<she looked back briefly and called to her daughter>>

My office, Courtney!

<< her tone was no less direct but didnt seem as SHARP or ANGRY as usual.>>

It's something else. I can...FEEL it.

<< what that meant was anyone's guess, but they all knew things didnt always make sense when it came to Courtney or even Carole. She looked at Ava, Delilah and Nicolas, then turned to follow after her mother, who was already out of sight.>>

If i get bound in mystic chains under the foundation of the school...at least you'll have a well stocked party.

<< she said with sarcasm as she walked away leaving them behind.>>

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah rolled her eyes through Dr. Starr's "Be Good" speech. This was so stupid, making them sit through this assembly when they weren't even going on the retreat. She looked at her watch. They had a TON of things to do for the party. FINALLY it was over, but the four of them waited for the masses to push and shove their way out of the auditorium before going about their own business.

My mother seems to be in a generous mood since this afternoon. I wonder if she's planed to bind me in mystic chains for the weekend and just hasn't said anything.

Delilah smiled mischievously.

"So...assuming your mother DOESN'T bind you in mystic chains, did you finally pick out a costume?"

Courtney was interrupted by Doctor Starr, who wanted to see her in her office. Uh oh.

Delilah shot Courtney a glance, wondering for a moment if it was wise to let Courtney go in there alone.

If i get bound in mystic chains under the foundation of the school...at least you'll have a well stocked party.

Courtney went off, following her mother's instruction, while Delilah and the others were left looking after her. Delilah looked worried.

"I feel so bad for her. I wish there was some way to help fix that."

She nodded towards where Courtney followed her mother.

 

[Persephone]

Standing with Delilah, Courtney and Nicolas as the rest of the student body exited the auditorium, they were discussion the party when Dr. Starr walked up. Looking over to the head mistress, Ava gave her an "innocent" smile knowing they were still in deep shit with her. But for whatever reason, she seemed to be in a more pleasant mood. It sort of took Ava by surprise. She asked to speak with Courtney alone, before being almost Samantha Stevens like [] and "scooting" herself, Nicolas, and Delilah out of the auditorium.

Delilah: "I feel so bad for her. I wish there was some way to help fix that."

Walking along side of Delilah and Nicolas, Ava answered quietly.

"I don't think the best psychiatrist in the world could fix that..."

Finally reaching the outdoors, it was getting a little chilly out as the day began to segway into night.

"I just hope Dr. Starr hasn't decided to lock Courtney away for the weekend and she misses the party....Oh my God! Or worse....she found out about the party!"

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Dr. Starr's office

<< a short time later, Carole was now in her office, seated at her desk, moving through some paper work. Courtney arrived.>>

Courtney.

Shut the door.

<< Carole looked up and gestured>>

Please, sit down, dear.

<< Courtney slowly complied, eyeing her mother suspiciously.>>

Courtney: What is it, mom?

Don't worry, It's nothing BAD.

<< Carole said, trying to lighten the mood and ease the tension between them, but of course it would take more than THAT to do the trick.>>

I've had to think about a few things and I...you're right. I'm not protecting you by keeping on perpetual lock down. I've been so fearfull and racked with guilt...I've been overprotective and that has done more harm than good.

You're my little girl, my only child left and I hope you can understand that I AM carrying a tremendous burden, but in turn, I recognize that you two have a burden.

We're survivors...but most importantly, we're MOTHER AND DAUGHTER, and i LOVE YOU.

You have grown to become a remarkable young woman. Intelligent, resourcefull, and witty...just like your big sister, Blaze. You're also posessed of a unique teleporting power and access to arcane power to such an extent that has placed you in the elite omega class of students here. If anyone is capable of defending themselves or knowing when to summon help, it's you.

In spite of everything else, you've prooven you can handle yourself with discretion that you're a competent, capable young woman and you've managed to find and cultivate several close friendships with some of the best and brightest here at Hillcrest. I'm...happy for and PROUD of you.

I don't want to unintentionally harm or stunt the progress you've made.

<<sitting back in her chair, the doctor gazes at her daughter with a soft reflection in her opal blue eyes>>

It's time I stopped holding on to you with such a white knuckle tight grip, and let you blossom.

<< Carole smiled and slid the flyer about the Salem Witches Ball that Courtney had told her about earlier forward across her desk>>

Go to the Salem Witches Ball.

 

[Spellbinder]

Dr. Starr's office

<< Courtney sat, already preparing for the another round of shouting with her mother picking up from their earlier confrontation.>>

<< Carole seemed calmer and more congenial. It was odd for Courtney and the fact that it was "odd" was tragic.>>

<< unlike some others, getting summoned to the headmistress' office would them think they'd been "caught" in something and they'd start singing like a canaray, unknowingly telling on themselves. Courtney, however, was accustomed to waiting and letting her mother indicate what the issue was and preparing her defense accordingly. IF her mother had somehow gotten wind of the party, Courtney would confess to nothing until Carole all but said it flat out and even THEN she would have a spin ready.>>

Don't worry, It's nothing BAD.

<< Carole said, trying to lighten the mood and ease the tension between them, but of course it would take more than THAT to do the trick.>>

<< Studying her mother with her icy violet eyes, Courtney was sorely tempted to take a swipe at her mother about whether or not she'd had her afternoon liquid lunch which might account for her unusual "good" mood but she held her tongue...for the moment.>>

<< nothing Courtney had expected to occurr in this meeting prepared her for what actually happened next. There her mother sat, relating to her as her MOTHER rather than "Dr. Starr, Psy.D; Headmistress of Hillcrest". She even referenced MORGAN's deceased elder sister, Blaze , mentioning how Morgan had grown to be witty like her!>>

<< KAREN went on to complimente Morgan and point out all the positive changes in Morgan's life , her strides forward as a student, omega class mutant and young woman.>>

<< Karen's unexpected kindness and warmth pierced Courtney's defenses and touched her heart...that heart which had been striving to revive and that which Ororo had helped to start beating with the fire of life again in the Apothecary. MORGAN standing her ground on Charles St. had been the brave, best thing to do and here, apparently, was some of the pay off. She'd actually appealed to her mother in a way that REGISTERED.>>

<< Morgan's demeanor shifted from icy, cold and aloof, to one of engaged and warm. All the bitchy retorts and strong defenses she had lined up to deal with her mother were suddenly not needed at this moment.>>

Mom....

I don't want to unintentionally harm or stunt the progress you've made.

<<sitting back in her chair, the doctor gazes at her daughter with a soft reflection in her opal blue eyes>>

It's time I stopped holding on to you with such a white knuckle tight grip, and let you blossom.

<< Carole smiled and slid the flyer about the Salem Witches Ball that Courtney had told her about earlier forward across her desk>>

Go to the Salem Witches Ball.

<< Morgan looked at the flyer, her icy violet eyes widened surprise and she felt a surge of excitement.>>

Mom...REALLY!?

Yes. Go. Amanda Sefton is very respected high priestess witch, accomplished in the arts of white magick. Her coven and network extends across the boston community. I can't think of a better place for you to spend [Halloween] All Hallow's Eve.

<< Neither Carole/Karen or Courtney/Morgan celebrated "Halloween"...even if it weren't due to the fact that the day was bathed bloody nightmare history for them both, they were witches and they preferred to celebrate its origins...All Hallow's Eve. Morgan, often feeling detatched from most of the students at Hillcrest had her heart set on going to this special event only to be denied by her mother...but now...>>

...I really wasn't expecting THIS of all things...

<< her mother leaned forward, hoping this would not only cheer courtney up, but show her that she really was turning over a new leaf with the dynamics of their relationship.>>

<< Morgan, in her momentary flash of excitement, almost FORGOT about the part she was invited to by her only real friends, Ava and Delilah, along with Nicolas. They'd been so supportive of her through all of this, even though they didnt know the half of it. But after everything they'd been through even just today? Courtney...MORGAN decided it was better to spend the evening with her FRIENDS. All those years ago, she spent Halloween night with her friends...and LOST THEM ALL. She needed to proove to herself just as much as she was trying to convince her mother that this...HE was OVER. Even though Ororo's word's kept haunting her.>>

An unquiet spirit roams the land. it...HE is an abomination to all that would live...

I know what this day is for you...for US and I know that your ultimate goal has always been to keep both of us safe...I know your worried. I don't have to go...