Firebird's dilemma

[Seer]

<< Several weeks have passed as The Six and their allies do what everyone has to do- carry on. Even in the midst of uncertainty, absent members and restless hearts...somethings never change...even though EVERYTHING has changed.
>>

<< Cameron King, Karen Victoria and Nicolas King worked together to quickly and thoroughly remove all baby gifts and traces of anything related the impending birth of Alexia Morgana from Delilah Trelevan's apartment ahead of what would be her first return to her home since the night of the Blue Moon. All the while, Cameron and Karen had each been spending time with Delilah, working in each of their unique ways to help put her put herself back together. But everyone knows what when a vase is shattered, even when it is reformed, it is never quite the same. Today was the day of her first return to Melrose Place. For Cameron, there had been alot of traveling back and forth between LA and NYC. He had barely seen his sister in the passing few weeks, but he had contact with her via their psychic rapport. He felt her slowly but surely pulling herself together and it was a big help that Alison was not the sort of person to try to pull him away from someone else who was in need. She'd always been one to try to take care of herself no matter what but he knew THIS time even SHE couldnt keep that marble hard heart hidden. He was glad Persephone had been with her during this time, but once he was sure Delilah was settled in Melrose Place and Karen gave him the world, his FIRST stop after leaving Melrose would be Minerva's Mansion.>>

<< Blaze Victory and Nicolas King met with Sally Spectra to advise her of Morgan Victoria's urgent but temporary leave of absence from the House of Spectra. of course there was no problem on Sally's part, since she and Morgan were business partners. But the fashion maven did offer her sympathy & well wishes. This also left Blaze at the helm to make sure the operations in Spectra Couture continued to flow smoothly and that word of Morgan's temporary absence didn't spread around to become some kind of rumour- as gossip often did in the fashion world. Blaze stepped up to the plate without hesitation and Nicolas offered support as needed. At this very moment, we find Blaze sitting in Morgan's office, at her desk, with Nicolas sitting in his usual spot during what would usually be the "afternoon pow wow" that Morgan, Blaze and Nicolas would have together. There was a noticeable difference in this one as the two sat in Morgan's office...without Morgan. >>


<< So far, there had been no sign or word of Morgan. Since she retreated to Limbo, she had not returned and there was no word of when she might. She did make a promise to both Cameron and Nicolas that she would return when she was able...but so far, that had not come to pass. >>


<<Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, in the middle of the churning, mysterious Aegean sea, we see the large island where Minerva's Mansion sits.>>


<< Within the massive technological gem that is Minerva's Mansion are the secrets of the world. Treasures, artifacts, objects and other things too fantastic and deadly for mere mortals to have access to. These items are kept from them as well as those who would use these things to try to dominate the world or worse. These items along with everything else inside this sprawling compound, are under the care and control of Alison Marble a.k.a. Harbinger.>>

<< In the weeks since the Blue Moon and the birth of Alexia Morgana, along with the tragic, violent fall out between Alison, Morgan and Delilah over Maxim and Alison's decision to take baby Alexia away from Delilah in order to keep her from dying, Alison has noticeably withdrawn from the majority of the Six. It was a move similar to Morgan's and it was for the same reason.>>

<< Ava Cassadine stayed at the mansion with Alison to spend time with her and help her to recover while Michael Armstrong had over seen the complete repair of the mansion as well as the regrouping of the security team. Alison and Ava sat together in the stone garden on the eastern side of the Mansion. It was a breezy evening on this side of the world but this weather was refreshing to Alison and Ava as they talked.>>

<< Alycia Barnett, who returned to the Six during the Blue Moon, also stayed over in the aftermath, to help Alison and Michael. During this time, she and Michael got to know each other better and Alycia had agreed to some training sessions with Michael. During these sessions he (at the behest of Nicolas) would out to her about joining the Six's front line roster....or at the very LEAST...sticking around a little while longer...because the team needed all the stability they could find at this present time.>>

<< Back in Los Angeles, Cassandra Johnson b.k.a CASS, had returned to her apartment at Melrose Place and resumed her duties at the curious, posh, exclusive and highly popular night club "After-Dark". The Blue Moon caper had been one of the most intense experiences she'd had since she began her association with the Six. Things that Sharon had told her were beginning to ring true and make sense. Her most recent training with Sharon Kelly along with a special test session in the newly designed DANGER ROOM in the restricted access lower levels of the Parthenon had caused her to shift her attitude and realize that like it or not...she was apart of this group and their lives depended on each other.>>

<< In keeping with this attitude change, she decided she would reach out to Delilah, whom she felt such sympathy for. Ruby was the sole survivor in her family, which had been wiped out by the Nazis. She knew all too well about the pain of loss, as did Sharon. After talking with Sharon about it, they agreed that they would visit Delilah together today.>>

<< But even as everyone moves forward, there is one among them who with every heart beat, finds herself wanting to move AWAY from this place...this TIME all together. And it's NOT who you might think...>>

<< Watch and see...>>

 

[Ruby]

Melrose Place - Apt. 6

:: Cass was pacing back and forth in the living room while on the phone with Bryan, After-Dark’s IT guru and self-professed security guy. Of course, After-Dark HAS their own security but Bryan accidentally stumbled onto her and Ella’s, the young lady who owns the club and who was subletting her apartment to Cass, true identities and ever since then, he’s been somewhat overprotective of them both. Bryan was asking her to pick up the wine for the club. They were running low on some of the bottles they have in stock. She sighed. ::

“Look, Bryan, I CAN’T go and pick up the wine because I am visiting a friend today……I KNOW I’ve been gone for a week or so, but seriously, I just CAN’T……God, Bryan, she had just lost her DAUGHTER!.......Look, I promise I will focus on the club, it’s my LIFE, my DREAM JOB, but for today, I just can’t. I’m sorry……Yeah, love you too.”

:: She ended the call and threw her phone on the couch and sighed again. It had been a long few weeks, filled with training, saving Alexia AND Delilah, and then some more training in what was known as the Danger Room. Not to mention she had a club to run. She sank down on the couch beside her phone and groaned. ::

This really, really sucks.

:: She was just…tired. But she was glad Sharon and Cameron FINALLY let up on her. She could enjoy these next few days. She was excited to go see Delilah today. She wanted to know how she was doing. Cass understood a tiny bit of what Delilah must be feeling. After all, she lost her entire family to the Nazis back when they first started to occupy Poland, her place of origin. But first…she’d ask Sharon how The Six did it; how they balanced careers and private lives with that of their superhero-status one. ::

I feel wiped out. I’m not sure I’m cut out for this…

:: And that worried her. Despite a few KEY people making life semi-miserable for her, Cass really did enjoy helping with the various capers and whatnot. But she felt like she was neglecting her club and she didn’t enjoy that at all. She flicked a speck of dust off of her jeans and then closed her eyes.

 

[Prophet]

Melrose Place: Delilah's Apartment

Cameron ran his finger along the fireplace mantle of Delilah's apartment and let out a dissapproving sigh.

[to Karen]

"I know how snobby this sounds, so 'forgive' me. But...I swear to god, these housekeepers in Los Angeles are just SLOPPY. They could learn a thing or two from my staff in New York..."

Moving over towards the opposite counter, he grabbed a roll of paper towels and began to furiously began to clean the already clean counters. He had been a little worn out from the past few weeks, splitting a lot of his time between LA and NYC, focusing on Delilah, worrying about his sister, all the while laying the groundwork to begin the complete rennovation and remodel of the Parisian Parthenon, just as he had done with New York location so many years ago.

Cameron had a lot on his plate. Normally when that happened he was allowed a little free time to indulge in some 'extra cirricular' activities.. but with the current state of The Six? EVERYBODY was picking up the slack left over from the dissolution of sisterhood between Delilah, Alison and Morgan. Instead of doing the things that allowed him to relax, he was making up for it by being a perfectionist.

"There we go! Spic & Span! Now..we've got to do one last scan for any baby items. We got the big stuff, but check the bookshelves.. things like that just in case.. we've been actually making a little progress lately, and I don't want to destroy it..."

He moved over to the fridge and opened it, doing a mental check. Cameron had made a grocery store run and stocked the fridge with every one of her favorite foods and beverages, even having food from her favorite Pub in the City flown in. He really wanted to make sure everything would go smoothly. Delilah would be here any minute and part of him was racing so that he could get to Aerie and be with his sister, as well as clear up some pressing 'business' he had with Alycia.

Knowing that his sister literally was feet away from him..just beyond the enchanted door in Mike's apartment...well, it made him antsy. Cameron moved over to Karen and grabbed her hand for a moment.

"Again...Thank you for all of your help these past few weeks with Delilah. I mean, I know it's probably been a little rough on you...what with Morgan in Limbo.. the argument...I know it's taken a toll on me..."

[he gestured his head in the direction of Mike's Apartment]

"And...i'm a little anxious to see my sister... Would you mind if I leave now? I know Delilah hasn't arrived yet, but I can send her a text...and i'm sure she'd like a little alone time.. I HAVE probably been a little suffocating lately... I've just been so worried."

[Cameron let go of Karen's hand and sighed]

"But...we've gotten her to this point.. and I think we are out of the woods in the suicide department...What do ya say, Dr V. ?"

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas' patience was running out.

Morgan needed time. No problem. Nic and Blaze set about to cover for her and, with Sally's blessing and support, it had been pretty easy so far. The three of them (Nic, Morgan and Blaze) did most of the work and decision-making anyway, so it was just them making the presentations without Morgan. This is where the subtle prejudice against someone like Morgan (blonde, female, pretty, nice rack) worked in her favor as her absence was easily forgiven. It would not last forever but it worked well enough for now.

Personally? He missed her. simple as that. It was nice to spend time with Dominique and to work alongside Blaze (who turned out to be even more impressive than he realized) but he was ready to see her again. The only reason he had not already gone back for her, demons be damned, was the visits by Tinkerbell. She seemed to always show up at the right times, purring and smelling like she had been cuddling her Mommy. But enough was about to be enough.

As for Delilah...sheesh. He felt for her SO much. He donated all of the baby items he purchased to charity, then immediately regretted not seeing if Ororo wanted them for Alexia's room. After being gently reassured by Ororo and Karen that anything the child needed could be easily conjured magically, he let it drop.

He wished he knew what to say to her, but he trusted Cameron and Karen to work with her and did not want to upset her and undo what had been done over the weeks. So he hoped to try again once he got an all-clear from Cam.

So he had a bit on his mind as he sat in Morgan's office with Blaze. Blaze performed capably, but he could tell that something was weighing her down. He could have a mental look, but sometimes your friends needed you to ask more than they needed you to just know what was going on. So as he watched her go over today's reports he got up and went over, giving her a hug. He looked upon her and smiled.

Time out Red. You seem a little more down today? Care to talk about it?

 

[Persephone]

It had been a few weeks since the Blue Moon had come and pass. Delilah was alive, but half the woman she used to be. After loosing her child, she completely turned on Alison and Morgan, basically dismissing them from her life. It was difficult to witness to say the least....and even more difficult to continue forth in the aftermath.

After Alison breaking down in her arms, Ava knew that it was best for her to stay behind with Alison on Aerie. It was a rare sight indeed to see Alison straight up and cry, let alone sob in someone's arms. Alison was one of the strongest people she knew...even after their own traumatic ordeal over a year ago she somehow was able to keep it together. But this broke her in a way that she had never quite been broken before. Ava truly felt that in that moment, Alison BELIEVED she WAS a monster for keeping Delilah's child away, even if it was for the safety of Delilah and Alexia. It was hard for Ava to see her best friend like this...to bascially see her crack under the pressure of being a precog. Fortunately as the days passed, and soon the weeks, Alison slowly began to recover.

"It's a beautiful day today."

A beautiful day mainly due to her own pull over the weather. Nothing causes someone to slip into a depression quite like gloom and cold weather. Therefore the past few weeks have been absolutely beautiful on Aerie. Ava sat back and pulled her feet up onto the oversized outdoor chair, tucking them close to her. Shifting her amethyst eyes towards Alison, Ava tucked back a loose strand of chocolate hair that blew into her line of sight.

"I'm sure Spaulding [the butler] can slip some Hemlock into your coffee if you like."

She said with a crocked smile, knowing very well it was only 8:30 in the morning there on Aerie. But hell...it was 5 o'clock somewhere.

[gasping] "Is that....is that a smile I see? It can't be. The Alison Marble SMILING? I do believe the underworld just froze over. [pausing] Actually that would be fantastic if it froze over. We should look into that."

She joked once again, although SLIGHTLY serious at the thought. Either way, Ava had a rapport with Alison that she didn't have with anyone else on the six other than her sister Haleigh. Ever since their ordeal together in the alternate plane, they grew very close...basically LIKE sisters. Ava could joke with her, open up to her, even be vulnerable with her like she could with Haleigh. And vice verse. It was an unlikely friendship considering they basically couldn't stand each other when they first met.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Melrose Place apt 1

Cameron ran his finger along the fireplace mantle of Delilah's apartment and let out a dissapproving sigh.

[to Karen]

"I know how snobby this sounds, so 'forgive' me. But...I swear to god, these housekeepers in Los Angeles are just SLOPPY. They could learn a thing or two from my staff in New York..."

Moving over towards the opposite counter, he grabbed a roll of paper towels and began to furiously began to clean the already clean counters. He had been a little worn out from the past few weeks, splitting a lot of his time between LA and NYC, focusing on Delilah, worrying about his sister, all the while laying the groundwork to begin the complete rennovation and remodel of the Parisian Parthenon, just as he had done with New York location so many years ago.

<< Karen heard Cameron, while she was tending to several fresh floral arrangements of some of Delilah's favorite flowers that she'd had specially made and brought in.>>

Well Cameron...

<< Karen said as she looked at one of the floral arrangements she'd been tending to...>>

Were you not the one who selected the cleaning service?

<< Karen didnt like the crystal vase the flowers were in. it didn't seem to accent the properly. After staring at the vase for a few moments...she decided to change it.>>

Somethings are better left to one's own PERSONAL touch...

<< with that, Karen TWITCHES her nose a'la Samantha Stevens. Cameron hears that distinct xylophone twinkling sound associated with this magick move of her's as Karen changes the vase from one form to another, one that is more in touch with tht theme this fresh floral arrangement was meant to convey.>>

THERE! That's better.

<< She nods with satisfaction as she looks around the living room for one last check...>>

Cameron had a lot on his plate. Normally when that happened he was allowed a little free time to indulge in some 'extra cirricular' activities.. but with the current state of The Six? EVERYBODY was picking up the slack left over from the dissolution of sisterhood between Delilah, Alison and Morgan. Instead of doing the things that allowed him to relax, he was making up for it by being a perfectionist.

"There we go! Spic & Span! Now..we've got to do one last scan for any baby items. We got the big stuff, but check the bookshelves.. things like that just in case.. we've been actually making a little progress lately, and I don't want to destroy it..."

He moved over to the fridge and opened it, doing a mental check. Cameron had made a grocery store run and stocked the fridge with every one of her favorite foods and beverages, even having food from her favorite Pub in the City flown in. He really wanted to make sure everything would go smoothly. Delilah would be here any minute and part of him was racing so that he could get to Aerie and be with his sister, as well as clear up some pressing 'business' he had with Alycia.

Knowing that his sister literally was feet away from him..just beyond the enchanted door in Mike's apartment...well, it made him antsy. Cameron moved over to Karen and grabbed her hand for a moment.

Everything seems to be in order....

<< She looks down at her hand, which Cameron was now holding. How far had THESE TWO come in order for them to be able to relate to one another as they did now, let alone come together to help Delilah as they had over the past few weeks? It was proof that they'd both come to know one another on a deeper level as individuals and as friends.>>

"Again...Thank you for all of your help these past few weeks with Delilah. I mean, I know it's probably been a little rough on you...what with Morgan in Limbo.. the argument...I know it's taken a toll on me..."

[he gestured his head in the direction of Mike's Apartment]

<< Karen squeezed Cameron's hand.>>

Think nothing of it, dear Cameron.

You stepped up to be a much needed buffer when none of us, not even I, could. But you had the WISDOM to know when to reach out for help when you needed it and you did that. You are so far different from the Cameron King i met several years ago....that first night of the inferno....

<< FLASH!>>

<< 5 years ago. Illustra. The first night of the INFERNO. The Six, Ororo and Erika King have gathered in Illustra, specifically the 107th floor- Morgan's penthouse apartment. This marks the first time KAREN VICTORIA meets the rest of the Six outside of Alison, Blaze and Delilah and it's NOT a happy meeting.>>

<< Karen watched with disbelief...her eyes widening at the bizarre sight of her daughter as a mannequin...before being shaped and tempered into the killing machine she is now...along with BLACK appearing to be alive and well..but presenting himself in a different form. watching as he led her deeper into darkness before finally catalyzing her transformation.>>


my baby....<< she closed her eyes tightly...she was very distraught at what she saw>> .....what could the two of you have done to drive her into the arms of a DEMON!? and not just ANY demon...the demon who brutalized her and nearly killed her TWICE.

<<she screamed at Haleigh and Cameron>> Why do you two seem to be a common demoniator through this WHOLE nightmare?

<< It was an unpleasant memory they BOTH shared. A nightmare they both SURVIVED. And here they were now.>>

I can't tell you...the sense of sadness and at various moments...utter LOSS that i've felt since that night in the infirmary right after the Blue Moon. I was helpless to do anything to help ANY of them [Delilah, Alison and Morgan]. Morgan is my daughter of course, but i love ALL THREE of them as daughters and no mother wants to see her daughters fight like this...be angry or disconnected like this.

There hasn't been much any of us could do, but YOU, Cameron, YOU have stepped in to help where it was most needed. Delilah needed someone...and the reality was...it could NOT be anyone else...not even ME at that moment. Not because I didnt want to , but because she was not ready to receive anything from me.

Times like this...emotions are too strong, too primal. They make strange bedfellows with INSTINCT and for Delilah...it had become something of a "us vs. them" situation...when clearly it is not.

You've done everything you can...and now, I will take over, but that hardly means this is the end of your involvement or the need Delilah will have of you and your support.

[he gestured his head in the direction of Mike's Apartment]

"And...i'm a little anxious to see my sister... Would you mind if I leave now? I know Delilah hasn't arrived yet, but I can send her a text...and i'm sure she'd like a little alone time.. I HAVE probably been a little suffocating lately... I've just been so worried."

[Cameron let go of Karen's hand and sighed]

"But...we've gotten her to this point.. and I think we are out of the woods in the suicide department...What do ya say, Dr V. ?"

Of course. Alison and Morgan are doing what they know to do to help themselves get through what has been a horrible experience. But we ALL know that no one is an island. Go to you sister. It will do you as much good as it will do her.

We'll connect later on at some point.

<< She winks as she lets go of Cameron's hand.>>

Off you go now.

<< She says gently with a smile as Cameron departs for Michael's apartment, leaving Karen to look around Delilah's apartment once more.>>

Well.

I think everything is as it should be.

<< Nodding with satisfaction as she looks over to the table where some freshly made afternoon snacks and drinks are waiting.>>

Delilah should be here at any moment.

<< Looking over at a clock>>

And Sharon and Cass said they'd be coming to visit as well.

<< Karen pushes the front door of Delilah's apartment nearly closed before moving further inside, fluffing up a few pillows on the couch and then waiting...>>

 

[Firebird]

Spectra Couture

Blaze had been in auto pilot mode when she returned to Spectra Couture. She really didn't think about "it"...she just wanted Morgan's reputation to be protected and for everything to run smoothly. It was one of the ONLY things she could control in a sea of OUT OF CONTROL that had flooded nearly all other areas since that night in the infirmary.

Sally had been great. She was so kind and supportive to Blaze, even giving her a few PR tricks to use to make sure no one was the wiser about Morgan's absence and Nicolas stood strong beside her. "Chocolate Kiss" was more than just a pretty face after all!

Still, there were moments where even professional success couldn't make up for a LOSS.

Nicolas and Blaze were in Morg's office, with Blaze sitting at Morg's large, "wrap round" counsel and Nicolas sitting in his usual spot.

Papers were rustling as Blaze, wearing a stylish, tailored red blazer with a black dress and high heels with some accessories, thumbed through files and looked over reports, signing off on things as she would have done normally, clearing out emails, looking over proposals and bids for contracts. She'd impressed everyone, including Nicolas and Sally Spectra with her business savvy and her ability to take charge. But to her, it was no big deal. She was doing what she'd always done...stepping in when her sister needed her.

SHE didnt realize that even in doing such a good job, she once again, reminded Nicolas and the otherse how much DIFFERENT she was from her crosstime/mainstream counterpart, Foxfire.

"Morg...I know you're not ready to come back...I wish you were...but I know you're not. But just know that Spectra Couture is doing okay and I'll make sure it stays that way till you get back..."

She hoped her sister would hear her. She would send out at least one thought call a day. It was like casting a penny in the wishing well, hoping that just ONE TIME, something would happen...but so far...nothing...

She knew Nicolas was missing Morgan too. He'd been so great. Warm, charming...all the things she knew he could be but in his eyes, she saw his sorrow too. She could also see it in some of the more subtle movements he made- the way he sometimes frowned, or would stare off into space. She may not have been a telepath or empath, but she was VERY good at reading people. It was one of the uncanny skills that made her an excellenet black ops agent in her days before Valiant.

The two of them may have been larger than life in the board room, but they both felt very small and uncertain in Morgan's office just then. The silence was deafening. Only the ticking of a large wall clock dared to break that silence as the fire elemental sat at her sister's desk and the demi god sat in his chair.

Moments continued to pass until...

So he had a bit on his mind as he sat in Morgan's office with Blaze. Blaze performed capably, but he could tell that something was weighing her down. He could have a mental look, but sometimes your friends needed you to ask more than they needed you to just know what was going on. So as he watched her go over today's reports he got up and went over, giving her a hug. He looked upon her and smiled.

Time out Red. You seem a little more down today? Care to talk about it?

She looked up as Nicolas hugged her. She let go of the files and just took a moment to sigh as she closed her apple green eyes.

"Nic....I miss my sister. She won't come back...at least not now...and it hurts. Don't I mean anything to her?? doesnt she know that Karen is worried too??"

Getting up, she goes over to the large, well stocked and equipped bar and fixes herself a Lemon Drop.


"In my timeline...I saw the same thing happen. Morg, Alison fell out with Delilah. It was awful. They cast Delilah out of Illustra...the Six...and shortly after that...everything went to hell. Delilah JOINED mystech and became The Justicer! It was SICK..."

"You guys helped us survive that nightmare...and we helped you rescue your teammates....but what if we're on the eve of seeing what happened in my timeline happen HERE, NOW?"

She QUICKLY gulps down the first lemon drop and without even looking down, she begins to make another one, taking that one back to her seat with her.

 

[Harbinger]

Minerva's Mansion- Stone garden

:: After "standing strong" for so long, through so many moments where she'd seen what was coming and either took unusual/harsh steps to prevent it OR [according to some, even WORSE] simply LET the events occurr as she "saw" them because it served a greater purpose, the precog had apparently reached a breaking point during the Blue Moon caper.::

:: It HELPED immensely that when she DID fall apart, she fell into the arms into someone that she counted as close to her as Morgan or her own baby brother. Persephone. There was no judgement. Only sympathy and support. The things she needed more than she would EVER have cared to admit that night or in the days and weeks that followed.::

:: Like Morgan, Alison experienced a loss...a CHANGE deep down in her heart and soul when Delilah said the things she said to each of them. Their "sisterhood" had been destroyed and it was an unbelievable, sad thing for the rest of the Six family to watch, knowing there was nothing they could do. But now...if never before...they all had seen just how difficiult it had been for Alison to live her life as a precog and try to balance that with the lives of her friends and family.::

:: Never before had she allowed anyone to cause her to WAVER on the decisions she made as a precog. But that night, Delilah's biting, vicious words and response to her for the actions she took to save her life and give her and Alexia a chance to ONE DAY say each other...it was was more than even SHE could have imagined. That kind of pain was something ONLY a person who was TRULY inhuman would shrug off and although Alison was known for her "marble hard" heart...that night...they were reminded that she too was human, with feelings.::

:: Inspite of all of that, in the days and weeks that passed, as she slowly began to pull herself, she REMAINED resolute in what she'd done about Delilah and Alexia. She knew it had been the right thing and she'd already seen that they WOULD be reuinted when the time was right. That was all that she needed or cared to know about that.::

:: As for the rest? including Delilah? Alison was completely closed off. Ava and the others knew this. It was seen in alot of what she did, including her noticeable withdrawl from The Six as a whole.::

:: Still, Ava remained with Alison at Minerva's and Alison was grateful for it.::

:: This beautiful breezy morning, they sat together in the stone garden outside on the eastern wing of the mansion, overlooking the endless expanse of ocean leading out to the beautiful morning horizon::

"It's a beautiful day today."

A beautiful day mainly due to her own pull over the weather. Nothing causes someone to slip into a depression quite like gloom and cold weather. Therefore the past few weeks have been absolutely beautiful on Aerie. Ava sat back and pulled her feet up onto the oversized outdoor chair, tucking them close to her. Shifting her amethyst eyes towards Alison, Ava tucked back a loose strand of chocolate hair that blew into her line of sight.

"I'm sure Spaulding [the butler] can slip some Hemlock into your coffee if you like."

She said with a crocked smile, knowing very well it was only 8:30 in the morning there on Aerie. But hell...it was 5 o'clock somewhere.

[gasping] "Is that....is that a smile I see? It can't be. The Alison Marble SMILING? I do believe the underworld just froze over. [pausing] Actually that would be fantastic if it froze over. We should look into that."

She joked once again, although SLIGHTLY serious at the thought. Either way, Ava had a rapport with Alison that she didn't have with anyone else on the six other than her sister Haleigh. Ever since their ordeal together in the alternate plane, they grew very close...basically LIKE sisters. Ava could joke with her, open up to her, even be vulnerable with her like she could with Haleigh. And vice verse. It was an unlikely friendship considering they basically couldn't stand each other when they first met.

:: Alison sat in another of the oversized chairs. Her blue/black hair blew in the breeze and she was wearing some oversized "Jackie O" style sunglasses along with a blue cami, black leggings and black ballet flats::

:: As Ava commented about the option of Hemlock for breakfast, Alison smirked and finally smiled a bit as she shifted in her seat and stretched::

And no one knows about changing times than WE do, eh?

:: A reference not only to the Six's collective time/space hopping courtesy of Spellbinder's stepping disc...but the very memorable and terrifying ordeal that she and Ava specifically had experienced when THEY FELL into one of those same discs and ended up in the dystopian timeline where Firebird originally hailed from from.::

Ava...I want you to know how much...how MUCH it means to me that you've stayed with me all this time.

I've never imagined...that I'd find myself in NEED of some help and support like this again. Morgan and I were so...we were HURT by what happened that night. What Delilah said to us. I dont think either of us stopped for a moment to realize that we needed to stick TOGETHER. We were BOTH relying on our individual COPING mechanisms.

I'm glad you're here. I dont have to worry about any judgement...OR pity from you. Aside from Morgan and [now perhaps] my baby brother...I dont think anybody else really undersands me like you do.

I can't say this to too many people...but I can say this to you...I needed that in the aftermath of what happened with Delilah and Alexia.

There was a moment, brief as it was...where I lost myself in Delilah's anger...and i BELIEVED her when she said how much of a monster I was.

 

[Persephone]

Alison: Ava...I want you to know how much...how MUCH it means to me that you've stayed with me all this time.

"You would have done the same."

And Ava knew Alison WOULD have done the same if she was given the opportunity only months earlier during her own traumatic ordeal. Alison and Ava were very much alike in their personalities. Even, cold, logical to the point of being considered "heartless". That was probably why Ava understood so well WHY Alison did what she did to save Delilah. She DID feel terribly for Delilah....no mother should have to go through loosing their child, in separation or in death, however Alexia was literally sucking the life out of Delilah. She would continue to do so if Delilah remained around her. It was a tough situation with a shitty outcome no matter what was done.

Alison: There was a moment, brief as it was...where I lost myself in Delilah's anger...and i BELIEVED her when she said how much of a monster I was.

"Delilah said what said in anger. Though she might wholeheartedly believe that she hates you NOW, deep down she KNOWS you did this to protect her and Alexia. You're NOT a monster, Alison. I've met monsters..."

Ava trailed off with her words and turned her gaze away from Alison and onto the vast ocean view before them.

"Truthfully...I don't know if she'll ever forgive you. I hope one day she will for both of your sakes. You just have to take solace in knowing she and her child are alive because of you."

Looking back at Alison.

"And just remember, she was in a state of shock and pain. People say and do horrible things when pushed to that point."

Scoffing.

"Hell, I say and do horrible things when i'm bored."

Ava quipped, trying to lighten the somber mood.

 

[Harbinger]

Minerva's Mansion- stone garden

"Delilah said what said in anger. Though she might wholeheartedly believe that she hates you NOW, deep down she KNOWS you did this to protect her and Alexia. You're NOT a monster, Alison. I've met monsters..."

Ava trailed off with her words and turned her gaze away from Alison and onto the vast ocean view before them.

:: Alison turned her head a bit and lowered her sunglasses a bit, allowing her colbalt blue eyes to rest on Ava's face and facial expression.::

:: There was something BEHIND that pause. Alison didn't need to be a precog to know that. But she DID suspect it had more than a little to do with Ava's prolonged absence from the Six following the Bianca/Black caper and the time between that situation and her arrival to Minerva's Aerie just before the Blue Moon.::

:: But Alison wouldn't press that. Not NOW at least...::

"Truthfully...I don't know if she'll ever forgive you. I hope one day she will for both of your sakes. You just have to take solace in knowing she and her child are alive because of you."

Looking back at Alison.

"And just remember, she was in a state of shock and pain. People say and do horrible things when pushed to that point."

Bishop...Maxim seemed so certain that she WOULD forgive me, but I knew better. As silly as it sounds, I looked ahead...at all the probable time threads...and I saw nothing bit a rift, a BLACK HOLE that opened between myself, Delilah and Morgan. One that only GROWS with the passing of time.

But if I hesitated on taking the actions and steps necessary to protect us...the WORLD simply based on whether someone would understand or even forgive...that would not only be selfish of me...but sloppy.

I knew the cost. But I also knew it was better to suffer the pain of THIS...than to watch her die and to see her daughter suffer the rest of her life.

But sometimes I forget...or maybe the better way of putting that is I try to psyche myself OUT to think that as a precog I always KNOW the pain that will come with some of my actions.

You've helped me AVOID drowning in that tidal wave of pain. Now that I'm past THAT point, I can begin the process of MOVING ON.

:: Still...the image of Delilah's tear streaked face...the sounds of her anguished cries and distress...they ringed in her mind and flashed across her minds eye no matter WHAT she did or said to try to get past that. BUT she'd have to. Not because she didn't care about Delilah. That couldn't be further from the truth. She had to move on because she had responsibilities and people that still needed her. She knew that one day, Delilah would see Alexia again and even if Alison was not meant to be there to see them reunite, the main thing was that that moment was even POSSIBLE for Delilah and Alexia.::

"Hell, I say and do horrible things when i'm bored."

Ava quipped, trying to lighten the somber mood.

:: At Persephone's last comment, Alison exhaled with a laugh::

Now is THAT CLASSIC Persephone talking? Or HALEIGH'S sister?

:: Alison couldnt help but laugh a bit, since it was a fair toss up which side of Ava that last remark came from.::

 

[Prophet]

Melrose to Minerva

From the enchanted door in Mike's Apartment.. Cameron found himself transported from Melrose Place to Minerva's Mansion in an instant. The place looked pretty good for what it had suffered in the past few weeks, but for now Cameron pushed that out of his mind. With everything that had happened to ALL of them recently...he was planning on having a little fun.

And the women would probably need it. He didn't want to speak poorly of his teammates but when he thought of the word "fun"...he didn't necessarily think of Ava Cassadine and Alison Marble. Severe? Yes. Cold? Yes. Fun? Not so much...

Making his way into the kitchen quarters of the mansion he was greeted by the staff who informed him of the whereabouts of his sister. He nodded as he opened the fridge and began to survey it for anything good, fulling reaping the benefits of being the brother to the mistress of the estate. Finding some fresh squeezed orange juice, he made his way over the liquor cabinet and found some top shelf vodka.

"Now THIS... is the ticket!"

Cameron made himself a rather strong Screwdriver, put together some fresh fruit in a bowl as well as some greek yogurt with some granola, and put it together on a serving tray...he hadn't eaten yet and of course...it was never a good idea to drink on an empty stomach.

Arranging everything on the tray, taking a few flowers that had been in a vase, he grabbed a bottle of Hemlock from his bags that Dominique had given him in anticipation for his visit, grabbed the vodka and orange juice and headed outside to the Stone Garden where he greeted his sister and his teammate.

"Well.. Alison and Ava, aren't you two a sight for sore eyes?"

He smiled setting the tray down on the table.

"I hope you don't mind.. I kind of scoured your kitchen. It's what little brothers are entitled to right? Either way, we have years of making all that irritating stuff up to each and we might as well start now..."

[taking a sip of his screwdriver]

"Now.. both of you.. give me the greeting that I deserve!"

 

[Harbinger]

Minerva's Mansion- stone garden

You like my new kitchen appliance?


::She gestures, drawing Ava's attention back toward the spot where Cameron appeared just a few seconds after::


He gathers everything he can find and consumes it but he also brings me hemlock!

:: Alison didn’t look back to see Cameron as he arrived, CLEARLY having no trouble “making himself at home” with the comforts of the mansion. But it was okay. Just to have him here, ALIVE, whole and healthy and to hear him laughing was balm to her cold, resentful soul.::

Well if I wasn’t you…I’d be Michael or Nicolas cleaning out the kitchen. I’m sure you have a bottomless pit for a stomach like they do.

:: She laughed softly as he sat down and sat the tray on the table among them. Alison shifted in her seat and reached for some fruit and then, KNOWING Ava would probably make a lush joke or 3, she reached for the Hemlock and unapologetically poured a flute full.::

Hmm yes. Somewhere across the vastness of time and space, I see it being “after 5” & therefore, it is my duty to have a drink of Hemlock.

:: She said in a tone clearly making fun of herself. Another good sign to Ava and Cameron that she was feeling better::

"Now.. both of you.. give me the greeting that I deserve!"

Well…I think you deserve a good butt whooping or two for some of the stunts you’ve pulled over the last two years, making me & the others worried and as you’re big sister, I’m just the person to do it! Would you like that??

:: She asked in a playful tone as Ava made the “shame” gesture with her fingers::
So what brings you to this side of the world?

:: She WANTED to ask, “How’s Delilah feeling?” But she stopped herself as she eat some fresh fruit before gulping down her first flute of Hemlock::

How are you?…how are things stateside?

 

[Prophet]

Minerva's Mansion - Stone Garden

Cameron smiled as he watched his sister pour herself a flute of Hemlock. He was glad to see that for the most part was appearing to be in far better spirits than he had expected. He knew this was a troubling time for her, but he was a firm believer that sometimes, especially in a group like The Six, where overanalyzing was a favorite pasttime, you just needed to RELAX and LET GO for a few moments...something that Alison with all the responsibility of carrying the mantle that she did, had a hard time doing.

"Now there we GO, Alison. Glad to know that my desire for fine liquor is a family trait..."

[looking at Ava]

"And you dear..Well, I mean if you don't make good use of that vodka NOW, you'll just appear rude to your host...and her brother."

[winking at the Goddess]

Well…I think you deserve a good butt whooping or two for some of the stunts you’ve pulled over the last two years, making me & the others worried and as you’re big sister, I’m just the person to do it! Would you like that??

"Well, sister? If there is anybody who DESERVES the honor of kicking my ass.. it's you!"

[taking another sip]

"So what brings you to this side of the world?"

"You know.. I've just been positively SLAMMED at work lately, and I realized I hadn't seen my sister in weeks... Thought it was the right time to pop in and have a sleepover! Keep drinking that Hemlock and we'll be braiding your hair and talking about boys in NO TIME!"

[looking at Ava]

"Of course you'll have to take some cell phone pictures to use later on in case Alison gets all "Harbinger - Keeper of Time" mighty in the near future!"

"How Are You? How Are Things Stateside?"

Cameron let out an exaggerated sigh.

"To be honest? I've been busy as all HELL. Work has been going fantastic. Rennovations are near completion for The Parthenon in the city, so that's been nice. The place has been packed.. Dominique's shows are selling out nightly, which has been great for both of us...I'm about to break ground on the destruction and complete remodel of The Parthenon's Paris Location..which hasn't had it's doors open in AGES... It was always supposed to be the next in line to be re-opened..but we all know that OTHER things got in the way of THAT..."

[pausing for a moment]

"So...the whole thing is a LITTLE overwhelming..BUT that's how I like it. Idle hands are the Devil's Playground and these hands have been a penchant for "playing"...the week is shaping up rather nicely.. Which reminds me!"

[looking at Ava]

"I got your message about possible Cassadine Enterprises locations in the City. I pulled some of your best prospects, and.. I'd like to discuss that among OTHER things when we both get back to the city... I'll have my people call your people...blah blah blah..."

Cameron was somewhat stalling because he KNEW that he couldn't very well just NOT mention Delilah. Alison and Delilah HAD been friends for so long, and he KNEW his sister was wanting to know that she was okay...but he didn't necessarily want to change the tone of the conversation to something somber when he was having such a good time.

[adding almost like an afterthought]

"...and Delilah is returning to Melrose Place this morning. Karen and I were there this morning making sure everything was in order. So.. things are slowly returning to what could perceived as 'normal'.."

[quickly trying to change the subject]

"Now, onto the good stuff... DO tell me Alycia Barnett is stil staying with you.. I have a little "unfinished business" with the Amazon i'd like to discuss with her while i'm here..."

Cameron gave a devilish laugh as he gulped down the last of his Screwdriver and promptly began to fix himself another.

 

[MorningStar]

USAirways Flight #6899 from JFK to LAX

Delilah curled up in a faux-fur throw in her seat. Normally she didn’t fly first class – she couldn’t justify what a complete waste of money it was for only a four and a half-hour flight – but today she hadn’t cared. Cameron had made the airline reservation anyway, and she knew he was just trying to be nice. At least he hadn’t spent thirty grand to have his private jet fly her from New York to LA. She could feed a small country with that amount of money.

But today she was happy to not have some stranger sitting next to her, and to be able to pull her legs up beside her. She sipped a glass of syrah and slept, mostly. She had been sleeping a lot the past few weeks. And in between Karen came and talked to her about the five stages of grief. Now she loved Karen like her own mother, but sometimes that psycho-babble seemed like just that. And of course, having Karen around only reminded her of Morgan.

Morgan had NOT been to see her since she had dumped her on Cameron’s doorstep. Apparently she hadn’t been seen by anyone since – which, she suspected, was the reason she was being “allowed” to return to her apartment in Melrose Place.

Delilah wasn’t sure how she felt about that. The last time she had lived there felt like another lifetime. Like she was a different PERSON. THAT Delilah’s friends wouldn’t have abandoned her. THAT Delilah’s friends wouldn’t have…but no, she couldn’t think about that. Not in public. She just had to get home. If she could just make it home everything would be okay.

She closed her eyes. She could feel the plane begin its descent into LAX.

Showtime.

She carried her small bag with her through the airport. A driver was waiting for her and she slipped into the plush backseat of the town car. Cameron had had the rest of her things shipped so she wouldn’t have to worry about luggage. Cameron. He had been so good to her – no true brother could have done better. She used to feel that way about Morgan and Alison, but now it was like she had never known them at all. She had no idea how the others would be. Most likely, they would be against her. But she didn’t care. She really didn’t want to talk to anyone anyway.

As the car pulled up in front of Melrose Place, Delilah tipped the driver. He offered to carry her bag inside but she declined. It was a purse, really. She opened the gate and walked inside to the courtyard. She could smell the chlorine from the pool as she pushed her apartment door open.

Walking inside, she saw a fresh bouquet of white peonies next to the door.

“How lovely.”

She remarked as she looked up to see Karen standing in her living room.

“Oh – Karen. Hello. I didn’t know that you would be here.”

In truth, keeping up the mask was getting increasingly difficult and exhausting. She had counted on being alone once she arrived back at the apartment.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Melrose Place- apartment 1

<< Karen smiled as Delilah walked into her apartment, but the doctor had known Delilah long enough to know that she was not TERRIBLY happy to see her. She was being polite, gracious, but the girl was still in “retreat” mode at this time.>>

<< It didn’t hurt or offended Karen, she understood how grief and adjustment reactions were for different people and many times, her sessions with her patients were HARDLY as smooth flowing as they are portrayed on TV or in the movies.>>

Well hello there! Welcome home!

You just missed Cameron. But we wanted to make sure that you arrived to a fresh, clean, welcoming apartment, after all, your home is your refuge and sanctuary.


<< Karen walks forward and embraces Delilah.>>



Would you like anything? << gesturing over to the table>> Cameron had many of your favorite things purchased and delivered. You have a fully stocked fridge.


I brought in the flower arrangements. I know how white peonies were your favorites.


<< Karen smiled as she closed the door behind Delilah and gently took her bag>>

I’m sure you’re looking forward to some alone time as you settle back into your place here, but in times like these, as a person slowly begins to restore their life and routines, It is important to have helping hands and familiar faces to reinforce that this is where you belong and that you’re headed in the right direction.

I...we wont stay long.

<< Karen smiled as she explained>>


Sharon and Cass will be stopping by to say hello very soon, but they won’t be staying long.

Before they do arrive, I wanted this private time with you.

<<Taking Delilah's hands into her own>>


I think you should know by now that I care for you. I love you as a daughter. I will help you as much as I can and I don’t want you to doubt that about me.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas held Blaze for a moment as she sighed, then told him more specifically what her issues were.

"Nic....I miss my sister. She won't come back...at least not now...and it hurts. Don't I mean anything to her?? doesnt she know that Karen is worried too??"

Getting up, she goes over to the large, well stocked and equipped bar and fixes herself a Lemon Drop.


"In my timeline...I saw the same thing happen. Morg, Alison fell out with Delilah. It was awful. They cast Delilah out of Illustra...the Six...and shortly after that...everything went to hell. Delilah JOINED mystech and became The Justicer! It was SICK..."

"You guys helped us survive that nightmare...and we helped you rescue your teammates....but what if we're on the eve of seeing what happened in my timeline happen HERE, NOW?"

She QUICKLY gulps down the first lemon drop and without even looking down, she begins to make another one, taking that one back to her seat with her.

Nicolas watched her as she makes drinks and looks at his own hand, empty. NO. DRINK. Blaze ALWAYS offered to get him one, usually making him a White Russian or Screwdriver unbidden. He watched as she took her seat again.

Rising, he made his OWN drink, sipping a White Russian as he sat on the desk corner facing her.

First of all, there are several key differences already between those timelines. While D and the witches ARE estranged, Cameron and Karen have been there for her and we do not have two more capable people to help mental anguish than those two. Ma can help her empirically and as a Mother Figure and Cam should be able to detect serious warning signs a mile away. So we can relax THAT talk honey.

He finished his drink and set it on Morgan's desk, then returned his gaze to the fire elemental. She was JUST as in tune with her sister as the Foxfire from this time, but she was so much more at the same time. He was impressed with her in a brand new way and he did not want her to lose faith and step back from the growth he had seen in her. He lifted her chin to look into her eyes.

I miss Morgan as well Blaze. And I know how much she means to you, to both of us. But she WILL be back. Tinkerbell has been visiting me regularly and while she cannot talk, she lets me know that things are OK. If that changes she will let me know and I will return to Limbo to help her if need be. But for now she needs this time to gather herself.

He looked off, out of the window as he continued.

Leading this team is a hell of a burden. I once wondered why I never led the team, but the truth is that I will never be able to do what she does. Morgan has earned the trust of the entire team, the ability to say to gods and goddesses to make something happen and have it happen. As long as I am the spawn of Set I will never have that level of trust. I cannot imagine how it must feel to be at that place and have it shattered the way it was with Delilah. That is a blow that takes time to recover from and may never be fully healed.

He looks back at Blaze.

But she knows that she is not alone, that we are here for her and awaiting her return. She also knows that at some point I will come back for her should she be too long. But we have to be patient and trust that she will return to us as she said she would. MEANWHILE....

Nicolas stands up and pulls Blaze to her feet.

Take a bow dear!! You have been doing absolutely great in this position. When Morgan comes back I may have to steal you for some projects for my business. As for now, what can I do to make this easier. Shopping? Partying?

Nicola shad a gleam in his eye and he was intent on trying to cheer up the fire elemental. This normally was very easy but he had a feeling that it might take an extra effort. He was certainly game for that, at least it took his mind off his own sense of temporary loss.

 

[MorningStar]

Melrose Place, Apartment #1

Well hello there! Welcome home! You just missed Cameron. But we wanted to make sure that you arrived to a fresh, clean, welcoming apartment, after all, your home is your refuge and sanctuary.

“Thank you, Karen.”

Delilah’s smile betrayed a hint of a frown as Karen mentioned that Cameron had already left. HE would have recognized when she needed to be rescued. But it looked like she was going to be on her own.

Karen hugged Delilah. A bit awkwardly she hugged her back. But it was a familiar comforting feeling.

Would you like anything? Cameron had many of your favorite things purchased and delivered. You have a fully stocked fridge.

She moved over to her sofa and sat.

“That Cameron – he’s been spoiling me rotten. I won’t know how to act, now that I’m back in the real world.”

I brought in the flower arrangements. I know how white peonies were your favorites.

Delilah smiled, a bit wistfully.

“You remembered.”

No one ever remembered what flowers she liked.

I’m sure you’re looking forward to some alone time as you settle back into your place here, but in times like these, as a person slowly begins to restore their life and routines, It is important to have helping hands and familiar faces to reinforce that this is where you belong and that you’re headed in the right direction.

Delilah sighed. It was lecture time once again. She tried to be polite, but sometimes it was difficult not to act the bratty child.

I...we wont stay long.

She looked up at Karen quickly.

Wait – we?

Sharon and Cass will be stopping by to say hello very soon, but they won’t be staying long. Before they do arrive, I wanted this private time with you. I think you should know by now that I care for you. I love you as a daughter. I will help you as much as I can and I don’t want you to doubt that about me.

Delilah laid her cheek on the cushion of the white slipcovered sofa. Her head just felt so heavy.

“I don’t doubt you, Karen. I just need to get back to my normal routine.”

 

[Persephone]

Alison: Like my new kitchen appliance?

Glancing over to Cameron, he made his way into the garden carrying a bottle of vokda, hemlock, some fruit, and Greek yogurt. Smiling, Ava took the fruit and yogurt off his hands as he approached the table.

"Handy AND practical. How could you go wrong with booze and food?"

Dipping a strawberry in the yogurt, Ava popped it into her mouth and allowed the siblings to chat for a bit. Alison asked how everything was stateside, which of course meant how was Delilah. Pouring herself a screwdriver as well, she figured Alison would probably need the hemlock more than she did.

Cameron spoke about his business endeavors and how everything seems to be running smoothly for the opening of the new Parisian Parthenon. Hmmm... Ava pondered for a moment before snapping back to reality once Cameron spoke to her.

Cameron: I got your message about possible Cassadine Enterprises locations in the City. I pulled some of your best prospects, and.. I'd like to discuss that among OTHER things when we both get back to the city... I'll have my people call your people...blah blah blah...

[chuckling] "Of course. I will actually be returning to the states tomorrow. As much as I enjoy spending time with you Alison, i'm sure you wouldn't mind some time by yourself."

Knowing Alison enjoyed her company, Ava also knew that Alison enjoyed her privacy as well. The worst of what had happened was behind them, and it was time for Ava to return to the states and get back to work.

Then Cameron mentioned Delilah. Glancing over at Alison, he quickly changed the subject knowing how touchy it was. Taking a giant swig of her screwdriver, he managed to do a good job of it, asking where Alycia was because he had some "unfinished business". Rolling her eyes, Ava pushed the bottle of vodka closer to him.

"Here. You might need to ply her with this before finishing that buisness."

 

[Harbinger]

Minerva's Mansion- Stone Garden

:: Some time passed as the trio sat, talked, laughed, ate, DRANK, talked some more. For Alison...to move at this leisurely pace, to not have to be at the forefront of the conversation...it was these little things that she savored during this time of recovery and reflection.::

::As she drank her flute of hemlock and quickly poured herself another, she listened to Cameron. Her oversized, "Jackie O" sunglasses hid her colbalt blue eyes well, along with the majority of scope of some of facial expressions. She looked at him as he spoke, sometimes looking THROUGH him. She couldnt help but take notice of the changed man sitting there with her. ::

:: To have him here, to see him so ALIVE and VITAL and possessed of a HEALTH passion for life...it did her marble hard heart well. But shouldnt couldn't help but miss being "stateside" as well. But ever since what happened after the Blue Moon, she refused to set foot "over there".::

:: The LOGICAL side of her was right in line with what Ava had said, what Alison herself already knew. But within the darkest, most secret parts of heart and psi screened mind, there was now a current of deep resentment. A current that was pulled along by the black hole that had now formed between herself, Morgan and Delilah.::


:: Her blue/black hair blew a bit more in the breezy air and she soon snapped out of her blaze gaze as her eyes blinked a few times. She heard that Ava would be departing for the States for tommorow. Just as she had already known.::

Yes.

:: She said to Ava's assumption that Alison would like some alone time.::

It's been a joy to have you here, you've helped me more than I can say and you're always welcomed. Both of you. But I have plenty of things to catch up on that will keep me busy for the coming weeks, including an expedition to Pammukale, Turkey. The locals and even some scientists and archeologists are all up in arms about the discovery of "the gateway to hell". They're calling it "Pluto's Gate".

OBVIOUSLY this is incorrect, since Doom's Doorway is located on Themyscira. BUT there IS an artifact located at "Pluto's Gate" that I need to retrieve before one of the archeologists does and ends up transforming into the Exemplar, Inferno.

:: It all sounded perfectly normal and even a bit exciting for Alison, HARBINGER- The Keeper of Time and the guardian of the secrets of the world, even as Ava and Cameron stared at her in disbelief for a few moments.::

What? You have your real estate to check out...I have an ancient, powerful fire based talisman to retrieve before some over ambitious, fool hardy mortal gets his hands on it and becomes a problem THE SIX has to deal with.

:: She smiled. Obviously this and any number of other tasks- whether urgent or not- would be used by her to delay and avoid ANY possible necessity of returning to the States or any where near Delilah.::

:: Undaunted, Alison continued on...::

Besides, I see some GREAT things ahead for both of you upon your return to the states. We wouldnt want any of that to be derailed by a "Six matter".

:: One of those things being a love interest for Ava But she wouldnt spoil that surprise for the goddess. and speaking of love and interest...Cameron asked about Alycia. Alison smirked as Ava slid the bottle of vodka over to him for help with Alycia.::

Alycia's here. She's been helping Michael with a few things regarding the security detail of the mansion and he's been pitching the idea of her staying on with the Six as much as he thinks she'll allow.

She's engaging in some training exercises with Michale out on the northen edge of the estate, they're on their last round now so you might want to make your way over there.

:: Alison was obvioulsy having no problem using her "seer's eye" as she informed Cameron of Alycia's where abouts to the very minute::

When you're done trying to seduce her...

:: Ava made kissy faces and noises to accent Alison's playfull ribbing of Cameron at the moment::

There's one other thing I'd like to talk to you about. But there's time, so go see her and I'll see you later.

:: She looked over at Ava as Cameron excused himself to go see Alycia and Michael::

So, Ava... it sounds like you're really looking to take root back in New York. This is all going to help pull Morgan back to NYC too, you know. Deep down that's where she really wants to be...

That is, of course, if she decides to return to EARTH from Limbo.

Speaking of Morgan...her sister, Blaze...Firebird...how has she been? I offered her to come here to visit anytime...but she's been so withdrawn since Morgan's departure. I think we all tend to forget...that she's NOT our original Blaze and that she suffered a serious trauma the night HER Morgan, Alison and Delilah fell out. It was the fear of losing Morgan AGAIN that prompted her to leap through a disc, risking the danger of LIMBO to somehow get to Mainstream Earth to find US.

Now she's had to face Morgan's departure, AGAIN.

 

[Arsenal]

This was almost TOO much fun.

How many times in your life can you say that you trained with an Amazon for weeks on end? Got to pick her brain for ancient and lost tactics and styles? Got to wrestle with a chocolate hottie who always smells like fresh flowers AND can possibly kick your ass without any hocus pocus or metagene shenanigans?

The first couple of days were dicey as he absorbed her new fighting style and worked through his own issues with what happened during the Blue Moon. Nothing like anxiety to get you smacked around nicely during your training.

But after Alycia accompanied him to visit the families and sort out any issues that came up he felt better. In fact, her help during the day and his nights with the Doc had him feeling MUCH better overall. Sharon was also awesome, and together she and Alycia made a couple of run-throughs against the compound security system that allowed Mike to improve its efficiency. Alycia's assistance had been quite valuable and she was receptive to Mike's overtures in terms of her staying around a while longer and staying in touch and available should she leave. So now, it was time for some fun.

The pair had their primary range weapons out and were in the process of a little target practice against randomly tossed clay pigeons. The goal was to use hand signals or clock number calls to 'kill' all targets before they landed. So far, they had gotten better by leaps and bounds, killing everything the last couple of rounds.

*CLICK*

Six targets fired into the air in a spread pattern. Mike raised his hand, signalling that he was taking high. Alycia took low and 5 of the targets were gone in a second. There was one left off to the left and he yelled instinctively.

10!

Rotating smoothly, Alycia fired a bolt that vaporized the pigeon inches from it hitting the ground. An awesome shot. She managed a small smile as she looked at him, hand on one hip. He shook his head.

You are the god-DAMNED devil. Great shooting...what the hell is a Charope by the way? Never mind. Damn good job "Licia. Ready for more targets?