Gathering at the clock tower

[Orion]

EOS Nomad -- Zach's Apartment

She threw her arms around his neck afterwards, as he braced himself with his hands on the countertop. They shared a kiss, and then she eased herself off the counter. She grabbed him again, weak in the knees, and he smirked proudly, telling her to take it easy. She whispered in his ear.

Ashley: It makes me so hot when you can't wait to have me.

He chuckled.

"Good, then I won't apologize whenever I need to make you drop everything you're doing, just so I can do YOU."

He replied, as she guided him towards the table, advising that he sit and rest while she made him a plate of food. He lowered himself into a chair and watched her move around the kitchen. Every now and then he told her where to find what she was looking for, like what drawer the silverware was in or which shelf the syrup should be on.

When she sat down next to him, he smiled and thanked her. Her foot grazed the back of his lower leg, a warming gesture of continued physical contact. She proclaimed that she loved crispy bacon, and his smile grew even bigger, as he stopped eating to look over at her.

"You're perfect, you know that?"

He asked, reaching over with his free hand to take hold of hers. There was the faint sound of two phones chiming almost simultaneously from the bedroom. Zach assumed it was an update, but not an urgent one. Any communication that required immediate attention would have come through the com-link.

"So, I guess it's 'bring your bodyguard to work' day?"

He asked, and then he smiled deviously.

"Or I could take a sick day."

 

[Valkyrie]

EOS Nomad

"Good, then I won't apologize whenever I need to make you drop everything you're doing, just so I can do YOU."

She smirked right back at him.

"Just because you need to, doesn't mean I'm going to."

She pushed a lock of his hair off his forehead.

"Of course, I can't really imagine anything that I would rather be doing."

She pushed him towards the dining table, then went to fix their plates, and finally sat down next to him.

"You're perfect, you know that?"

He reached over and took her hand.

"And you had better not forget it."

But she smiled at him, and squeezed his hand.

"So, I guess it's 'bring your bodyguard to work' day? Or I could take a sick day."

"I'm not sure how much work you'd get done...and you are looking quite flushed."

She returned the devious look on his face.

"Though, I don't know, seeing where you work could be fun...how big is your desk?"

She took another bite of bacon, and looked at him with wide eyes.

"You could come with me, and we could just shoot guns all day."

She shrugged.

"I'm not planning on doing any work today, THAT's for sure."

 

[Artemis]

Charope- Alycia's office to the Clocktower

No, no. Don't mind me. Just keep working, I am just here to, what was that you said? Do whatever you might need?

:: Alycia never had "help"...or DISTRACTIONS like THIS in her office during her her days as the ADA.::

:: she really should've sent him out of the office and somewhere else in the building, especially with Sharon here. But it was too late to think about that, or anything else at the moment. She was barely aware of anything, other than this feeling, this moment...and her body was dragging her mind along for the ride, for every sensation, which thanks to Xavier, and his power, was was being felt in a way she never knew was possible.::

:: she could barely remain in her seat, she could barely remain upright.::

SOMEONE was enjoying her treatment immensely and Xavier could feel her body tense as she reached the edge of climax when...the door began to move! He ADJUSTED his tongue speed to roughly 1000 rpm, pushing Alycia into a whole new level of arousal and release when...

:: She was about to crumble down onto the floor, and let Xavier be upon her in an instant...when...::

[ Moments later, Sharon opens the doors and walks right in]

I HARDLY think you'll find Dennis Nedry down THERE, Xavier.

:: Alycia shrieked with a START, and almost FELL backward with her chair as her arms and legs flailed. But Xavier was able to CATCH her, using his super speed, and return her chair to its proper, steady position.:::

Xavier stood up, a wry smile on his face. He offered Alycia an ink pen.

There you go ma'am. I think this is what you were looking for? I take it this is your LUCKY pen?

:: Her breathing was soon returning to normal, as she glared at...::

SHARON!

[ Sharon met her glare with a smirk. PAYBACK!]

Oh...you bitch! you did that on PURPOSE!

:: Breathing out slowly, as she settled, Alycia smacked her lips and rolled her hazel eyes. They DEFINITELY would be having a conversation later::

Oracle has invited us all to lunch at the Clocktower.

Isis, Matrix and Recall are there with her.

Isis has apparently fortified the Clocktower with her magicks, to provide a powerful BARRIER from any further attacks by the renegades (Persephone and Black Widow) or the rest of the Hellfire Club.

If we're all together, that's ONE less avenue for them to try to strike at us.

If you two are quite FINISHED with your..."RESEARCH"

:: Eyeing Xavier with a smirk::

Perhaps we should get going.

Xavier smiled back at Sharon, giving her an even stare. He was exuding classic British stoic and calm demeanor.

I was actually hoping to introduce a couple of different ANGLES into my inquiry but I would not dream to interrupt a chance at team building. Alycia?

:: At that moment, Alycia looked at her phone::

She pulled out her phone and sent Alycia a text.

>> Everything set up for tonight 8pm. I'll pick you up.

:: She looked back up at Xavier and Sharon::

I need to be back here by 7:30 pm. Delilah just informed me that she scored a meeting with Bianca.

Sharon: Bianca...as in Bianca Ceasul!? Are you CRAZY!? after what she did to Delilah, to ME? After the events she set in motion for Spellbinder and the Six!?

Alycia: I had concerns myself when Delilah made the suggestion at first, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized this could be the "way in" for me to NAIL Nedry! She OWES Delilah a favor, and Delilah is calling it in!

Sharon: The two of you can't trust her! Xavier and I should be there with you, in case she tries anything!

Alycia: There's no denying that she can't be trusted. But she's a hellfire member. Yes, you have membership too, but given your...highly publicized ...

:: she knew Sharon wouldn't like this::

...ENCOUNTER with Domino, NO ONE in there would risk talking to you if you went there looking for information.

Bianca may the advantage I NEED to help me stop Nedry in his tracks, and nail him too the wall.

Is it risky? YES. But I've taken these kinds of risks before in previous positions, you know that. I'll have Delilah there with me, and neither of us are pushovers. But you and Xavier can SHADOW us, and act as an extra layer, observers, in case there's anything Delilah and I miss. AND if the floor drops out, you come in!

I would never be able to rest knowing I left any stone unturned, and this is very important for Rose's sake.

:: Sharon relented::

Sharon: Okay. But Xavier and I WILL be shadowing you and Delilah, just in case that selfish, greedy, two faced woman tries anything!

Alycia: I knew I could count on you for help and support.

:: Looking at them::

Both of you.

Now...let's head back to the Clocktower.

I'll have some OTHER words for you later on, Dear SHARON.

:: The Amazon stands, and enters a command code to put the building on secure mode, alerting the staff in the underground infirmary that she was departing, and that they too should go into secure mode.::

Xavier offered his hand and helped the finally recovered Alycia out of her seat. He glanced back to Sharon.

Ready when you are, ma'am. Shall I drive, or do we take the scenic route?

Sharon: Oh cool your jets, speedy.

[ Sharon scoffed, waving her hand dismissively, It was clear to Alycia, that Sharon was going to be giving him a hard time for a "MINUTE" now.]

Alycia: ::clearing her throat:: Why don't we ALL go together, in DOME!

:: And this was a reminder that Alycia should consider resuming the underground express tunnel project that would connect her building, and the infirmary, to the Clocktower. This would be a tactical bonus, and a secure escape route for both points of entry. She'd cancelled the project when she thought she was leaving the team.::

:: But now it seemed both she AND Sharon were on their way back, just as Isis was.::

:: The trio exited her office, and take the elevator down to the limited access underground levels. Soon they arrive to the hangar where Dome is housed, and board it. moments later, a field near the building opens up and Dome lifts up into the air, turning toward it's flight path and taking off. A short while later, they are landing on the pad on the top of the clocktower, and now entering the building via elevator from the roof, and riding down to the top floor::

:: they step out to see the others present::

Here we are.

:: Alycia says with a wave to Oracle, Gabe, Isis, Matrix and Recall::

Hello everyone.

 

[Cypher]

Finishing his coffee, Gabe got up and went over to the pot to pour himself another cup. Everyone was on the same page about the situation, and with Zizi checking in with the rest of the Birds, it gave Gabe the opportunity to let it all sink in.

Standing by door way, Zizi made her way over to the main console just as Alycia, Sharon, and Xavier arrived. He raised his mug up in a welcoming gesture.

"Afternoon."

Then he walked over to the main console as well, taking a seat next to Zizi.

Zizi: "Let's see who this Nedry guy really is."

"I can flood the firewall with mirrored coding so you can slip in undetected."

Gabe yawned as he tapped a few buttons helping Zizi out with her task.

 

[Oracle]

The Clocktower

Alycia, Sharon & Xavier strolled in.

"Oh good, you're here. Steel asked me to look into that Dennis Nedry person for you."

She motioned to the screen with her head.

"We're doing it right now. Help yourself to food."

"Afternoon."

She started typing, glancing back at the others.

"You remember Gabe?"

Then realized Sharon hadn't been at Rose's.

"Oh, Sharon, this is Gabe Jerome, an old friend of mine who created the new security system for the Sanctuary. Gabe, Sharon Kelly."

She smiled at him as Gabe came and sat next to her.

"I can flood the firewall with mirrored coding so you can slip in undetected."

"Backdoor, here I come."

It didn't take long before she was in the OCFS personnel files, had Nedry's, and was out again.

"And that's why people other than me pay you the big bucks."

She set her systems to run a search of any public info or news stories featuring Nedry's name, and let it run while she opened Nedry's file.

 

[Enchantrah]

Kelly: "Eh. When you know what he could look like, because you've examined his genetic material at a cellular level, you'll see that one of my creations might be a little more satisfying."

Helena grinned.

"Touché. Looking very forward to it."

Then Haleigh turned her attention onto her, decidedly being a cocky twat about completing her task involving Berserker and Persephone. Helena peered at her with narrowed eyes as Haleigh said there was no need to thank her.

"I wasn't planning on it. Don't act as if you had a choice, Scion. I still hold your sisters FATE in my HANDS."

Haleigh: "I don't believe in fate, Helena. And I always have choices."

"Watch your tongue little girl. Otherwise the next choice you'll have is between body number three or four."

Helena warned, her patience with Haleigh's massive ego growing thin. She certainly was enjoying flexing her muscles in the role as White Princess. But the Red Queen would shut that shit down QUICK if she kept mouthing off.

Kelly: "You've certainly relocated your balls, haven't you Haleigh?"

"They go great with the hair."

She added flippantly with a smirk.

Haleigh: "If you ever thought I lost them, Kelly, you aren't half as clever as you believe you are. Certainly it required balls of STEEL to stay in the game with Berserker and Persephone after Ava went dormant."

"If THAT required balls of steel my dear, perhaps you're in the WRONG game."

Rolling her eyes.

Diana: AND NOW that you're FINISHED focusing so much on the reindeer games of those two, you'll be RESUMING your focus on your OWN court.

Haleigh: "As you wish, My Queen."

Yes, please. Take her back.

Haleigh: "She's developing arachnophobia."

"And here I thought the Black Widow was dead and gone?"

Grinning at Haleigh's obvious throw back to her Black Widow days, SCION seemed to have forgotten who she was and who she left behind the moment she joined Hellfire. Helena was MORE than happy to remind her.

Diana: Persephone's actions will come with their own set of consequences that SHE will face. ALONE.

"Lets hope she behaves."

Haleigh: "We'll SEE, won't we?"

Helena kept her sapphire eyes LOCKED on Haleigh, both in somewhat of a stalemate as far as the conversation went. It wasn't until her phone vibrated that Helena gave Haleigh a smirk along with a wink before she finally looked down at her devise.

Alek > I needed to get out of the city for a couple days, clear my head. As you told me to do.

Helena ran her tongue along her teeth, her patience growing thin.

>> I expect you in my chambers tomorrow morning for a meeting. Don't misinterpret my generosity for weakness, Aleksander. You have one night.

Helena locked her phone and proceeded to stand in the process.

"As much fun as this has all been, I have a meeting with my informant that I must get to. If he's to finish what I put into motion, I need to give him all the ammunition he can use destroy the wilting Rose."

Purposely being coy in Haleigh's presents, Diana and Kelly however would know exactly what Helena was talking about.

"Ta ta, ladies."

Helena disappeared down the corridor and out of sight.

 

[Tachyon]

:: She looked back up at Xavier and Sharon::

I need to be back here by 7:30 pm. Delilah just informed me that she scored a meeting with Bianca.

Sharon: Bianca...as in Bianca Ceasul!? Are you CRAZY!? after what she did to Delilah, to ME? After the events she set in motion for Spellbinder and the Six!?

Alycia: I had concerns myself when Delilah made the suggestion at first, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized this could be the "way in" for me to NAIL Nedry! She OWES Delilah a favor, and Delilah is calling it in!

Sharon: The two of you can't trust her! Xavier and I should be there with you, in case she tries anything!

Alycia: There's no denying that she can't be trusted. But she's a hellfire member. Yes, you have membership too, but given your...highly publicized ...

:: she knew Sharon wouldn't like this::

...ENCOUNTER with Domino, NO ONE in there would risk talking to you if you went there looking for information.

Bianca may the advantage I NEED to help me stop Nedry in his tracks, and nail him too the wall.

Is it risky? YES. But I've taken these kinds of risks before in previous positions, you know that. I'll have Delilah there with me, and neither of us are pushovers. But you and Xavier can SHADOW us, and act as an extra layer, observers, in case there's anything Delilah and I miss. AND if the floor drops out, you come in!

I would never be able to rest knowing I left any stone unturned, and this is very important for Rose's sake.

:: Sharon relented::

Sharon: Okay. But Xavier and I WILL be shadowing you and Delilah, just in case that selfish, greedy, two faced woman tries anything!

Alycia: I knew I could count on you for help and support.

:: Looking at them::

Both of you.

Now...let's head back to the Clocktower.

Xavier listened closely at this exchange, trying to gauge what exactly he should be looking for in this evening meeting. In any case, he expected to be prepared and he was paired up with Sharon to keep watch. So Alycia should be golden. The talk turned playful again and he realized that Sharon was going to be busting hills balls a bit over Alycia. fine by him, especially if alycia was willing to kiss and make it all better.

Sharon: Oh cool your jets, speedy.

[ Sharon scoffed, waving her hand dismissively, It was clear to Alycia, that Sharon was going to be giving him a hard time for a "MINUTE" now.]

Alycia: ::clearing her throat:: Why don't we ALL go together, in DOME!

Alycia led them to an underground hangar of sorts where her invisible amorphous vehicle was located. It reminded him that magic and science were closely related as they zipped across town and landed atop the Clocktower.

:: they step out to see the others present::

Here we are.

:: Alycia says with a wave to Oracle, Gabe, Isis, Matrix and Recall::

Hello everyone.

Top of the morning, all.

Xavier nodded to Richard.

Wassup, man?

Richard: I can't call it. You?

Good and good.

They entered and Zizi was the unfailing hostess.

"Oh good, you're here. Steel asked me to look into that Dennis Nedry person for you."

She motioned to the screen with her head.

"We're doing it right now. Help yourself to food."

PERFECT. I was interrupted in the middle of my breakfast just a short time ago.

Xavier walked over and helped himself to a plate of food, winking at Alycia as she was ALMOST...blushing. It was seriously cute. He relaxed in the atmosphere with everyone else, watching the conversations and looks that were being passed about. He nodded to Isis when their eyes met and greeted her with one word.

Charmed.

This was interesting for one normally so solitary. This felt...right. And it was not simply because he'd had one hell of a time so far today, though that didn't hurt. He'd managed some link to pretty much everyone in the BoP. And seeing the assembled plus waiting for the rest seemed more that wise or tactically sound. It seemed like where they all SHOULD be.

 

[Malice]

Hellfire Mansion- The Catacombs

Haleigh smirked wickedly.

"Well, to be fair, I used to wonder just why Delilah was so infatuated with him ALSO... but now that I've had him myself, I can say with certainty that there's at least ONE understandable reason she doesn't want to let him go. He may be nothing more than a Flatscan, but he certainly knows how to fuck with reckless abandon."

Well.

:: Diana smirked a bit. She couldn't argue, that was something She, and the other two queens could appreciate in a man and it might make him worth keeping around...for a little while at least. But NONE of the queens would let a man drag them down into the abyss the way Delilah had allowed Bishop to. She seemed willing to throw any and EVERYONE away, AND this man WAS responsible for one of the darkest moments in the Six's history. How ANY of them could forgive her after that was a mystery to Malice. ::

:: Diana informed Haleigh that it was time for her to focus on her OWN court from here on, and the white princess understood, taking her place beside Malice, as Helena offered a not so fond farewell to her constant involvement in the affairs of the Red Court. Scion did her best to maintain a stone face as the Red and White Queens had their turn at dragging Persephone.::

If you're going to SHINE, Scion...you had BETTER LET GO of that DEAD WEIGHT [ Persephone]. I told you in the beginning, that when you walked through these doors, your old ties were NULLIFIED. Persephone has made her choices, and began the march toward her fate, YOU will do the same. Let HELENA address that girl, and you focus on YOUR future. You've redeemed yourself...DON'T risk that redemption for HER.

::Where Alek was concerned, Helena was very much a mama bear. He was her protege, and she understood Helena's desire to preserve her efforts and investment in him. FORTUNATELY for her, she didn't have BLINDERS on where he was concerned, and would discipline him as he deserved to be, otherwise, Malice would have to turn his brain in to a plate of scrambled eggs ::


:: Diana gently stroked Perle's fur, and Perle was happily nestled into the white queen's lap, purring, while Enchantrah and Scion went back and forth. Scion was never one to shy away from "back and forth," and in a way, this could serve Malice well, since Malice preferred to bust skulls rather than engage in wars of words.::

:: She knew Helena was on edge at the moment after their little confrontation over Alek, she knew that the behavior of Berserker and Persephone had cast a bad light on the Red Court at this time, but she also knew that Diana would give her a chance to CLEAN UP the mess, even if that meant destroying the ranks of her own court and starting over again.::

"I'm in no hurry to utilize Scion anytime soon, Diana. Trust me when I say she will have no further involvement with the Red Court. Keep her on your side of the mansion, i'll keep Persephone on mine."

Helena promised via telepathy with a outward smile to Diana.

AND Alek as well. Otherwise, I'll have him thinking he's an actual bear in the woods....FLEAS, TICKS and all!

:: Diana smiled as she "replied" and winked. One good "threat" deserved another but ultimately, if any two could come together to figure their way through a murky situation, it was Diana and Helena. Their "children" needed to settle down, and take a LESSON from their queens. ::

Helena locked her phone and proceeded to stand in the process.

"As much fun as this has all been, I have a meeting with my informant that I must get to. If he's to finish what I put into motion, I need to give him all the ammunition he can use destroy the wilting Rose."

Purposely being coy in Haleigh's presents, Diana and Kelly however would know exactly what Helena was talking about.

"Ta ta, ladies."

Helena disappeared down the corridor and out of sight.

:: Malice nodded with approval regarding Helena's plan for Rose, it was working well so far, and now it was time to ramp things up a bit. Helena would handle that well.::

:: And then there was Kelly. Oh she talked very well. She was full of ideas, facts, figures, and witty remarks, but did she really think Diana would leave Scion alone with her? She already had to draw a line with Talisman regarding Heidi, and as she once told Helena, if ANYONE was going to destroy Scion, it was going to be HER.::

:: Kelly got LUCKY, thanks to Scion's arrival into their pow wow, that she didn't have to directly answer Diana's question about how far SHE was willing to go to demonstrate her dedication to discipline and unity,

and while her THOUGHTS were closed to Malice, the white queen had other ways of "reading" the latest Black Queen . Shaw took great pride in her work, and her standing from her native timeline as the foremother of the viral technology that gave Mystech it's power. HERE in mainstream, ALICE was that foremother, AND the last surviving member of the original scientific cabal that was the engine of Mystech. She was also Haleigh's caretaker and "guadian angel" through the years.::

:: Accepting any gift or tutelage from Talisman was a risk, even for someone on the Inner Circle, and Diana was not about to allow her to gain any kind of leverage by way of Haleigh OR at Haleigh's expense, and so, the Black Queen had no choice but to agree to Malice's stipulation that Alice be involved.::

Kelly, virology and genomics touch on the primal building blocks of life as we know it, even the founders of Mystech understood that. I HOPE that in your efforts to discover the next "breakthrough moment" in virology, that you don't end up becoming reckless and foolish like Christopher.

:: She didn't need to spell out what the OUTCOME of such a development would be, as she eyed Kelly with a smirk, knowing that implied comparison would annoy her, but that's what she deserved! She was also so quick to downplay things in this timeline that she couldn't take credit for, and Malice wasn't here for that!::

"Of course Alice will be involved. She has more knowledge of the way the virus works in this timeline."

< looking towards Haleigh. >

"Don't worry. We won't 'silver swan' you. Nobody deserves that much that attention from Domino."

:: Malice scoffs with a bit of a laugh::

Haleigh laughed, true mirth in her green eyes as she regarded Kelly.

"Domino poses no threat to me."

But the SILVER SWAN does.

:: She "replies" as she looks at Haleigh::

You made QUITE a stupid mistake broadcasting the...playtime that Sharon and Maxine had at the Black Out party, and I expect that you've learned your lesson from that.

I want you AND Alice to keep an EYE on what Talisman is doing in the Body Shoppe. Report your findings to me in a regular and timely manner, AND if she seems to be getting out of hand...be sure that she encounters...STUMBLING BLOCKS along the way.

:: Malice didn't get where she was by NOT knowing what everyone else was doing, and there was more than one way to keep an eye on someone ::

 

[Millennia]

The Hellfire Mansion

What an incredibly boring meeting, with a bunch of whiney children who didn't understand: what they wanted didn't matter. But they got the picture in the end. Her family had controlled this company for hundreds of years - she wasn't about to let anyone tell her how to run it.

Bianca slid into the limousine, which hadn't bothered to move from directly outside the door to the building. Her driver knew already to take her to the Hellfire Mansion. She deserved a break after all the ridiculousness of Washington, and the mansion provided certain perks that her own home in the city didn't. Not the least of which was torturing Helena Quartermaine.

The driver opened the door for her and helped her out of the car. Appropriately, Hellfire staffed buzzed around her, dealing with her luggage and escorting her into the mansion. Once inside, Bianca removed her sunglasses and pulled the sable wrap off of her shoulder. She spoke to no one staff member in particular.

"I trust my rooms have been readied. With fresh flowers."

It wasn't a question.

Staff Member: "Yes, Senator."

"Tell the Red Knight I want to see him in my chambers immediately."

Staff Member: "Apologies - the Red Knight is not in the mansion at the present time."

Bianca rolled her eyes.

"As soon as he returns then. There are services I require of him. And tell Helena to get him back here, pronto. In the mean time, I'll have a massage. Call my regular masseuse."

As a member of the club, it was the inner circle's job to make sure she was happy and entertained. And she intended to make sure they made good on their responsibilities. She strode through the main hall like the queen she was.

There better be champagne in my room.

 

[Black Widow]

Hellfire Club -- Catacombs

Helena: Watch your tongue little girl. Otherwise the next choice you'll have is between body number three or four.

Haleigh's smirk grew, even her gaze showed amusement. Helena was pissed, but her threats fell flat. What could she do, target Haleigh's former friends? They were doing that already. Torture Haleigh's sister? They'd held Ava over her head since the beginning, and STILL hurt her, regardless of Haleigh's cooperation. So Helena tried the one threat she had left, death. Haleigh was unmoved. She was about to tell Helena that body three, or four, it made no difference to Haleigh, but then her mother imposed on her thoughts.

Diana: If you're going to SHINE, Scion...you had BETTER LET GO of that DEAD WEIGHT [ Persephone].

Diana warned, and though Haleigh's gaze remained fixed on Helena, her focus shifted to the mental exchange with the White Queen.

Oh, I'm just toying with her, mother. She's so easily provoked, you know I can't help myself.

Haleigh thought in response, as Helena's best insult targeted Haleigh's haircut.

Diana: I told you in the beginning, that when you walked through these doors, your old ties were NULLIFIED.

And I heard you. But the relationship you and Helena share is a SHADOW of the bond between Seph and I. I would THINK you'd understand why I won't throw my sister to the wolves, I mean she DID come here specifically for me.

Haleigh reasoned, but her mother was adamant.

Diana: Persephone has made her choices, and began the march toward her fate, YOU will do the same.

Maybe you doubted my sincerity regarding my disbelief in that trivial thing called fate--

Haleigh interjected, but Diana overruled her.

Diana: Let HELENA address that girl, and you focus on YOUR future. You've redeemed yourself...DON'T risk that redemption for HER.

Helena not-so-subtly hinted that 'Black Widow' was supposed to be dead and gone, and Haleigh smiled facetiously at the Red Queen for that comment. However, it was more important to address her mother's concerns than to continue to vex the Red Queen, so when Helena's gaze dropped to her phone, Haleigh looked over at Diana with a dour expression.

I DON'T INTEND TO. I have ACCEPTED the fact that I belong here, mother. Seph has done the SAME. There's no REASON to force her to go down fighting, but that's exactly what she'll do if you eliminate her justification for staying here. Now I've agreed to focus more on the tasks you've assigned me, and I'll be WHATEVER you need me to be, but I won't forsake her. I'm not trying to be difficult, just honest.

Haleigh thought back in response, as Helena squabbled with Alek through texts, then mentioned something about an informant and Rose, and excused herself. Next came the issue of Kelly, and Haleigh watched the Black Queen with interest. They negotiated terms, and Kelly was wise enough to agree to Diana's stipulation regarding Alice. Kelly joked about the Silver Swan and Domino, and Haleigh laughed, saying that Domino posed no threat.

Diana: But the SILVER SWAN does.

Haleigh looked back at her mother with a cutting smile.

Barely. I fought the Silver Swan before, but we weren't exactly enemies, so I held back. If I brought lethal force to bear against her.... it'd be an epic fight, it's not like she'd totally dominate me. So WHAT if she manages to kill me? I'd return to the battle in a fresh body. And even IF she won, I'd wear her ass out enough for one of the OTHER Inner Circle members to finish her off. That's why I'll continue trying to thread the Inner Circle together. It's not enough to have a strong White Court, an obeisant Red Court, and a nascent Black Court. We must become ONE team, if we hope to survive the Birds of Prey and the Six. That means making sure EVERY member is happy to be here, and happy to risk their lives for the cause, and for their companions. That way when the Silver Swan comes around, screeching and swinging, we'll all stand TOGETHER and knock that pretentious parrot out of the sky.

She observed, a patient 'tone' to her thoughts on the matter. She'd seen the Red Queen fracture loyalties in her insatiable quest for domination. She knew Kelly preferred to keep Amanda to herself, and that most likely she'd draft individuals to her court that were a bit more reserved and strategic. The White Court, as strong as it was, still lacked cohesion. Emiko and Heidi seemed to have a decent bond, but Gia had been ostracised and Haleigh was only recently even permitted to interact with her own court members. It would require some legwork on Haleigh's part to unite the White Court, but she was thinking about the tactics of that already.

Diana: You made QUITE a stupid mistake broadcasting the...playtime that Sharon and Maxine had at the Black Out party, and I expect that you've learned your lesson from that.

Haleigh pressed her lips in a hard line. She'd assumed that was water under the bridge.

I broke the Blackout covenant, I REALIZE that was a party foul. I THOUGHT you'd be pleased, that you'd be willing to break ANY rule in order to teach Sharon Kelly that if she thinks she can play with the Hellfire Club, she's going to get BURNED. I'm ASTOUNDED that you still let an ENEMY freely roam these halls, it's a MAJOR security breach, she has NO BUSINESS being here except to gather INTEL, which you can be DAMN SURE she took back to her little sidekick squad. But then you got mad at ME because I didn't engage VALKYRIE when she turned up. How am I supposed to know she doesn't have the same privileges as the Silver Swan?? But YES. I learned from my mistakes, I won't repeat them.

Haleigh thought, with a hint of pique.

Diana:I want you AND Alice to keep an EYE on what Talisman is doing in the Body Shoppe.

You read my mind.

Haleigh thought wryly, a smirk returning to her lips. If she'd only intended to research her origin, she'd have gone to Alice directly. Haleigh ALSO wanted to learn more about the Black Queen herself.

Diana:Report your findings to me in a regular and timely manner, AND if she seems to be getting out of hand...be sure that she encounters...STUMBLING BLOCKS along the way.

Consider it done. Thanks for sending someone in to watch my back this time.

She replied, an obvious reference to her disastrous solo mission against Rose.

 

[Persephone]

The rough morning gave way to a a more tame afternoon, all starting with a much needed workout session followed by a hot shower. Persephone was still very much hurt by everything that had happened, her emotions churning inside her like a boiling inferno. But on the outside she looked calm and collected, like nothing were out of place. The mask firmly in place now as she walked down the halls of Hellfire dressed sophisticated yet sexy in a crimson jumpsuit. She refused to allow anyone else within the club or Inner Circle call into question her abilities, strength, and power because of one slip up of the heart. Her heart was shut OFF, as it was years ago BEFORE merging with Ava, during the centuries she traveled the world killing for sport and inducing terror into others.

Walking into the Red Lounge, a few members glanced at Persephone before quickly averting eye contact. Smart. She approached the bar, not giving notice to a brunette woman sitting alone.

Bartender: "What can I get for you, Rook."

"Cabernet."

Bartender: "I'll go get your favorite vintage."

Persephone slipped onto the stool and crossed her legs at the knee. Her smokey eyes shifting over to the brunette, finally recognizing WHO exactly it was. Lifting a single eyebrow, Persephone's red stained lips curled into a smirk.

"And here I thought trash day was yesterday."

The bartender returned with a bottle of Cabernet and poured her a glass.

"I suppose what they say about cockroaches is true..."

Picking up her wine glass, Persephone took a sip of the Bordeaux while peering over the rim of her glass at Millennia.

 

[Talisman]

The Catacombs

Scion: "If you ever thought I lost them, Kelly, you aren't half as clever as you believe you are. Certainly it required balls of STEEL to stay in the game with Berserker and Persephone after Ava went dormant."

< Talisman blinked several times before smirking at Malice. >

"It's taken your daughter's own false sense of self to make me realize how annoying my own bravado must be. I apologize."

< She winked. Haleigh may have had balls, but they would do her no good without a head, or functioning control over her body. And to pretend that she wasn't down for the count like she was was almost comical to Kelly, if she was a woman who enjoyed much laughing. She knew she had to tread carefully around Haleigh, but she also knew that if she wanted to destroy her she could. There were any number of people wanting to kill Haleigh Davidoff these days. It wouldn't take much to set the right courses of action into motion and watch the White Princess crumble with no blood on her own hands. And at the very least, she knew that she could piss off Jessica Marcus enough to get her to destroy the woman, and nobody, not even Diana's precious 'Alice' would be able to stop that. >

< Speaking of. Helena left to go meet with her informant and now it was just Joan and Christina in front of her. >

Scion: "Kelly, irology and genomics touch on the primal building blocks of life as we knw it, even the founders of Mystech understood that. I HOPE that in your efforts to discover the next "breakthrough moment" in virology, that you don't end up becoming reckless and foolish like Christopher."

< Flatly and a bit annoyed. >

"I am aware of what virology and genomics are, Diana. But this is not the company it once was, and my enterprising attitude only serves to move us in a direction that will allow us to avoid the mistakes made once before. You might do well to start trusting the idea, that I am, in fact..trying to move us forward, and AWAY from the things that once blighted us. Caused us to falter."

< Talisman agreed to working with Alice because it was hard enough, and to be honest? She had Haleigh's DNA. She had reviewed Haleigh's records. She didn't need Haleigh. She already had what she wanted from her. So she really didn't care what happened to the woman, and she wasn't about to try and pull anything. She had given Haleigh advice, but one look at her and a gleaming with her Omni SIght had told her that she wasn't going to listen. She agreed to work with her and she would, if only to keep an eye on how much it was allowed for Scion to know. >

< She watched them communicate to each other in silence for a moment. >

"Well..this is riveting."

< Admiring her nails, her cobalt blue eyes flashed up for a second. >

"But if it's all the same, I have some things to attend to."

< Talisman smiled. >

"Always a pleasure to see you, Scion."

< Kelly nodded to Diana as she headed out of the catacombs, her heels clacking across the floor in successive motion. >

 

[Millennia]

The Hellfire Mansion - Red Lounge

"And here I thought trash day was yesterday."

Bianca held her glass of Dom up to the light, showcasing her elegant wrist and the Harry Winston Sunflower diamond bracelet she wore. She didn't bother to look at Persephone. She remembered the girl from the year before. Barely.

"Obviously not...you're still on the premises."

She took a sip of the champagne. The staff had forgotten to put a case in her room, which had annoyed her to no end, and she had been forced to come to this...bar.

"I didn't realize the help was allowed to address their betters. Hellfire standards must be dropping. Pity. It used to be exclusive. Now it appears they'll let just anyone in."

"I suppose what they say about cockroaches is true..."

Bianca finally inclined her head and looked at Persephone.

"Well from what I hear around the mansion, you do know a lot about cocks."

She smirked, swiveling her crossed legs towards Persephone, revealing her tall black Louboutin heels. She held up her glass in a toast.

"Well, cheers to you, I was sure you'd be dead by now. But I suppose the day is still young. Unlike you."

She leaned forward slightly.

"I really would have thought someone like you wouldn't get wrinkles but...alas...I think it's time for Botox, dear."

 

[Persephone]

Bianca: "Obviously not...you're still on the premises. I didn't realize the help was allowed to address their betters. Hellfire standards must be dropping. Pity. It used to be exclusive. Now it appears they'll let just anyone in."

Persephone smiled, amused by the pedestal Bianca placed herself so highly on. Her posture, mannerisms, the smug expression on her face; even down to the way she flaunted her expensive jewelry. It all pointed to her being an insecure little brat trying to make herself seem important. She wasn't to Persephone. And she certainly wasn't to the Red Court.

"For someone who has zero power and clout here, you certainly do have a lot to say."

She responded in a cool and even tone.

"But I suppose what they say about cockroaches is true..."

Narrowing her eyes.

"One manages to crawl through the cracks and the masses follow. Pity indeed."

Persephone watched as Bianca finally craned her neck back to look at her, the goddess casually placing her drink onto the bar top and swirling the foot in a small circle, causing the red liquid to paint the walls of the wine glass.

Bianca: "Well from what I hear around the mansion, you do know a lot about cocks."

"More than any man has ever considered giving you."

Bianca swiveled her stool around to face Persephone; she lifted a single brow followed by a smirk.

Bianca: "Well, cheers to you, I was sure you'd be dead by now. But I suppose the day is still young. Unlike you. I really would have thought someone like you wouldn't get wrinkles but...alas...I think it's time for Botox, dear."

Letting out a small laugh, it was neither one of humor nor amusement. It was coated in condescension before turning malicious in tone. The little barbs were cute, but now Bianca was starting to push her luck AND Persephone's patience.

"I already have enough poison coursing through my veins..."

Persephone now leaned forward to meet Bianca.

"For that my BITE is far deadlier than my BARK, bitch."

Leaning back, Persephone's midnight eyes were locked with Bianca's, narrowed and cold.

"So keep pushing me....I'm already teetering on the edge and I would LOVE an excuse to fall off."

The bartender looked positively terrified of what might go down in the Red Lounge, unsure of what to do other than attempt to refill Bianca's glass of Dom Perignon. Persephone held up her hand in a halt fashion, her eyes never wavering from Bianca's.

"Oh, we're cutting Miss Ceasul off. For someone so well versed in the Hellfire Club, she's forgotten one very important rule: RESPECT your superiors."

Persephone's smirked.

"Inform the other lounges. In fact....DUMP her private case of champagne in the gutter. If she so desires a taste, she can lap it up like the street tramp she is."

Persephone gave Bianca and once over with her eyes before taking a slow, savoring sip of her wine while gesturing with her pinky to Bianca's half gone champagne.

"Maybe if you're good....i'll give you a treat."

 

[Millennia]

The Red Lounge

"More than any man has ever considered giving you."

Bianca lifted an eyebrow in amusement.

"Oh, really? Who do you think had the Red Knight first? But, really, when he has to be ordered to do someone on his own court, does it really count?"

She smirked triumphantly.

"Oh, yes, he makes sure I'm quite entertained whenever I'm here at the mansion."

"For that my BITE is far deadlier than my BARK, bitch."

She looked at Persephone with an appraising eye.

"I'd heard they gave you a lobotomy when you arrived. It's increased your vocabulary, that's for certain. Not sure about your intelligence, though. That appears to have taken a bit of a nosedive."

"So keep pushing me....I'm already teetering on the edge and I would LOVE an excuse to fall off."

"I would have thought being the laughingstock of the club would be enough, but I'm sure I can come up with something."

Ava told the bartender to stop serving her. As if she couldn't have a case of anything she wanted delivered to the mansion in under five minutes, or that Alek wouldn't override the silly girl as soon as he returned from wherever the hell he was.

"Oh, we're cutting Miss Ceasul off. For someone so well versed in the Hellfire Club, she's forgotten one very important rule: RESPECT your superiors."

"Honey, you couldn't be superior to anyone if you jumped in the eponymous lake."

She took another sip of her champagne, but made sure to leave a quarter of the glass still filled and on the bar when she stood and pulled her fur onto her shoulders.

"Unlike you, I have any number of other places I could go. But no one else will take you now, will they?"

She clucked her tongue.

"What a shame. And I'll be sure to let Diana know just exactly how helpful you've been during my stay here...I'm sure she'll reward you appropriately. I hear you have a reputation for treating club members with extra attention."

She took a step towards the door but then turned back.

"That reminds me...I seem to remember that there is an appropriations bill coming through that stands to benefit Cassadine Enterprises immensely. What a shame it would be if that were to fall through."

She smiled sweetly, making sure to show off her dimples.

"Well, ta."

 

[Persephone]

Bianca: "Oh, really? Who do you think had the Red Knight first? But, really, when he has to be ordered to do someone on his own court, does it really count?"

Persephone's expression remained even and unreadable at the mentioning of Bianca being with Alek. But inside it was like a knife gutting her, hearing her throw him in her face. The fact that he WAS ordered by Helena to seduce her and lie to her. However Persephone didn't miss a beat in her response.

"It does if I make him come back for more. Operative word, come."

Bianca: "Oh, yes, he makes sure I'm quite entertained whenever I'm here at the mansion."

"How unfortunate for him. I'll make sure to keep him occupied while YOU'RE here."

She sneered while drinking her wine. Persephone warned Bianca that while this little game of quips and barbs was slightly entertaining, she was walking on thin ice.

Bianca: "I'd heard they gave you a lobotomy when you arrived. It's increased your vocabulary, that's for certain. Not sure about your intelligence, though. That appears to have taken a bit of a nosedive."

Persephone chuckled.

"Is that what you heard? [grinning] Well aren't you in for a little surprise."

She warned facetiously with a raise of her eyebrows to emphasize the underlining joke.

Bianca: "I would have thought being the laughingstock of the club would be enough, but I'm sure I can come up with something."

Glancing around at the silent members within the lounge and the petrified bartender, Persephone smirked.

"I don't see anyone laughing here, do YOU?"

Sliding her empty glass of wine to the bartender, he quickly refilled it.

"And here you are questioning MY intelligence when you're dancing with the devil herself. But please, continue down this road, Bianca. I won't be as forgiving as Delilah or The Six."

Persephone warned before cutting Bianca off and instructing the bartender to inform the club to dump her extremely expensive crate of champagne, and not serve her any further.

Bianca: "Unlike you, I have any number of other places I could go. But no one else will take you now, will they?"

"Oh i'm quite comfortable here."

Raising her glass in a cheers fashion while giving Bianca a smile as the woman stood from her stool.

Bianca: "What a shame. And I'll be sure to let Diana know just exactly how helpful you've been during my stay here...I'm sure she'll reward you appropriately. I hear you have a reputation for treating club members with extra attention."

"Only the ones I like."

She watched as Bianca strode toward the door.

"You know...the perks of being the Red Rook is I know everything about everyone within this club, including how you've been itching it get into the Red Court for quite some time. How unfortunate for you that Helena despises you....[with a smirk] but how wonderfully fortunate for me. [flicking her hand toward the door] But PLEASE feel free to let Diana know. I'm sure she would love to deal with the trivial problems of a low leveled nobody like yourself."

Persephone swiveled her stool to face the bar, turning her back on Bianca as the woman opened the Red Lounge doors.

Bianca: "That reminds me...I seem to remember that there is an appropriations bill coming through that stands to benefit Cassadine Enterprises immensely. What a shame it would be if that were to fall through."

Persephone rolled her eyes.

"Do try, sweetheart. The Queen's have deep ties to my company."

Cassadine Enterprises was the key supplier of all technology and weapons to Hellfire Club and partners alike. Kelly's laboratory would be bare without the Cassadine assets, as would Sheena Island, Hellfire Europe, and the list went on. Glancing over her shoulder.

"You'll be begging for me to put you out of your misery."

Bianca smiled sweetly.

Bianca: "Well, ta."

Persephone turned her attention back to the bartender, not bothering to respond to Millennia as she left the Lounge. The bartender looked timid as he approached, clearing Bianca's flute and napkin from the bar.

Bartender: "Apologies, Rook....I wasn't aware you were on bad terms with Miss Ceasul. I would not have allowed her in here...."

Giving the bartender a deadly glare, he wisely backed away before going into the back. Taking out her phone, Persephone dialed security.

"Remove Bianca Ceasul's bag from her suite and change the locks. If she raises a problem....send her to ME."

 

[Seer]

And So

<< The Clocktower- top floor>>

Zizi came back over to the dining table and picked up her plate, setting it in her lap as she wheeled back over to the main console.

"Let's see who this Nedry guy really is."

"I can flood the firewall with mirrored coding so you can slip in undetected."

Gabe yawned as he tapped a few buttons helping Zizi out with her task.

"Backdoor, here I come."

It didn't take long before she was in the OCFS personnel files, had Nedry's, and was out again.

"And that's why people other than me pay you the big bucks."

She set her systems to run a search of any public info or news stories featuring Nedry's name, and let it run while she opened Nedry's file.

<< Nedry's file from OCFS revealed an AGGRESSIVE pattern of scrutiny on certain families. Based on a hunch, Alycia asked Oracle to do a cross reference on some of the individual cases, and sure enough, in several of those cases, the children may have avoided being seperated from their parents and care takers, only to be ORPHANED by the Purifiers, and were now in the custody of Rose.>>

<< Alycia was right, there was more going on here than meets the eye! Oracle continued to pull up information, there were several children that Nedry had targeted that were set to be transferred to Rose's custody, but they disappeared...with only a FEW of them being officially listed as deceased. What happened to the others.>>

<< There was another piece, Dominique, upon observing Oracle and Alycia, and whom they were researching, shared the fact that she'd seen this man at the Black Out party where SHE debuted as the Black Queen. How could someone, with the MODEST living that a CPS worker earned, by present at a Black Out Party? >>

<< Now, the need to gain further information, and hopefully a smoking gun, by way of Bianca Ceasul became imperative for Alycia!.>>

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

<< Speaking of Rose and her children>>

<< Jake O'Brien has been cleared for release to return home. >>

<< Rose is going to pick him up, and in a sign that she seemed to be more trusting of Oracle, she reached out to the woman, asking for assistance in the form of individuals from her team acting as sentries around the hospital, and an escort back to the Sanctuary. >>

<< While she selected individuals to fill this request, Oracle contacts Orion via the com link to inform him of the change in Jake's status, and that she is sending out several of the team to assist Rose, and to assure Jake's safe transition back to the Sanctuary. She knows he is displeased that he can't be there, but Sharon and Alycia have had no luck in getting Rose to budge on this.>>

<< But taking advantage of this moment, Oracle tells Zach that its time for him and Valkyrie to return to the clocktower. The team must come together for what is next, and fresh off the success of bringing Isis and the Amazons back, she feels confident in calling Orion and Valkyrie back as well.>>

<< Can the team build on the progress of these first few steps, and prepare themselves for what's to come? They may not know it, but so much for them AND the Six depends on what happens within these walls over the next few hours.>>

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

<< At the Hellfire Club>>

<< Bianca Ceasul wastes no time accessing thee benefits and privileges of her membership. When she's here, she makes waves, much to the dismay and anger of the Red Queen, but she's another one who occupies that special status- along side Kristin Pratt, Alice, Sharon Kelly, Jessica Marcus and Domino. How long before Bianca finds a way to wear out her welcome here? Well, Persephone seems to be testing that theory now. >>


<< Alycia Barnett has made a risky choice, to pin her hopes on Bianca cooperating with her. Will this avaricious woman help Charope in stopping Nedry in his tracks? We must watch and see.>>

 

[Oracle]

The Clocktower

Zizi wheeled in from the kitchen, carrying a hot cup of coffee, which she set down in front of Gabe, who was working to augment her own algorithms searching for data on Nedry.

"I thought you could use a fresh cup."

She leaned over to his ear and whispered:

"This one has some whiskey in it."

She kissed his cheek, then moved over to her own station, continuing to work through the connections between Nedry's cases and children orphaned by the Purifiers. She had just begun looking further into the children who had never made it into Rose's care, when a message from Rose herself had come across the screen, requesting an escort for little Jake's return home. Oracle quickly responded that she would be happy to help, and that her team would be deployed immediately and would meet Rose at the hospital.

Zizi put through a video call to John at his office, bringing he and Andrew up on the main screen so they could be part of the conversation with those assembled at the Clocktower.

"John, Andrew, good to see you both."

Steel: "We were just about to head your way. Nedry does have a NYPD file as you suspected Zees, but it's been sealed. [whispers] I may have pulled a few strings for you though. We'll be there shortly."

Zizi shook her head.

"I need to divert you. Rose is bringing Jake home today from the hospital, and Rose has asked us to provide an escort. Xavier, Andrew, Vivica: you set up sentry points around the hospital. I'd like Dominique & Richard to ride in the car with Rose and Jake. John & Alycia, you two get them from Jake's room to the car and then follow behind their vehicle to the Sanctuary. Sharon, can you please take to the air and keep watch from there? Eyes open and talk to each other. I'll monitor things from here as well."

Steel: "Roger that. We'll meet you guys there."

"Once Rose and Jake are safely settled at the Sanctuary, everyone can regroup here at the Clocktower."

The team headed for the hospital, leaving her and Gabe alone in the loft. She smiled at him, happy that progress was being made on Nedry, and that everyone seemed to be working together. Well, almost everyone. There was someone else she needed to contact.

[via com] "Orion, this is Oracle. Are you reading me?"

"I've just received word that Jake is being released from the hospital. I've sent a team to ensure that he arrives back home safely. I thought you would want to know."

She took a breath.

"I also think you and Valkyrie should come back to the Clocktower. It's the safest place for everyone to be. And it's time."

 

[Rose]

From the hospital to the sanctuary - working together

<< and with that, The Birds of Prey move into action, with Isis weaving a teleporting spell to send the designated teams to their proper places in order to save time. The Silver Swan takes to the air, and also calls upon her silver gryfalcons to help her keep watch from the air and be ready to dive bomb or provide assistance if needed. Everyone takes their assigned roles and places per Oracle's order, while Matrix BECOMES the car that will carry Rose, Jake, and Isis together.>>

<<FLASH!>>

<< An image of Charope and Steel watching, as Rose prepares Jake to leave. >>

<< Jake is nervous, and understandably so, but Rose assures him things will be fine. Charope leads them, with Steel bringing up the rear, and they make their way down stairs. Rose covers Jake with his favorite blanket, as they wait for an all clear from Recall, Tachyon and Titan, who are posted outside. So far, so good.>>

<< Jake doesn't want to go outside. He's scared and begins to react badly to the possibility of being seen out in the open. Charope communicates with everyone else that they are stopping, to give Rose a chance to work with Jake, and calm him down. >>

:: Silently, she knows if Zach were here, he could help with Jake right now, but so far, she and Sharon have been unable to convince Rose to budge on banning him from seeing Jake.::

<< after a few moments, Rose, know kneeling at Jake to be eye level with him, has calmed him, and assures him that he will not be harmed, OR ripped away from her like that night at the Sanctuary. She gathers him in her arms, covering him with his blanket>>

You just hold on to me, sweet boy. I'll carry you to the car, where "the magic lady" (Dominique, as the children call her) is waiting for us, and we'll be on our way! Your family back home, and Sable, are all waiting for you!

Jake: But what about the Black Widow??

<< Rose exhanges a look with Charope and Steel.>>

Rose: She can't get you now, I promise.

<< she assures him>>

Rose: Now, you just hold on to me, and off we go!

<< And with that, they proceed once more, with Alycia leading, and John following behind.>>

<< outside, everyone is alert, and with good reason. Sharon's gryfalcons have detected some movement nearby, it's possible that Cobra, Mystique, Persephone, or Black Widow could be in the area. But Oracle urges them to keep things tight and remain focused on the task at hand, rather than spreading out to see what or WHO may be lurking nearby, it could be a deliberate attempt at a diversion to create an opening!>>

<< Recall, Tachyon and Titan move in coordination with Charope and Steel, as Rose places Jake in the car, where Isis immediately greets him and offers him a magickal surprise to help entertain him and keep his mind off other things. As soon Rose is inside the car [Matrix] , John shuts the door, while the sentries move around and the Silver Swan flies over hand. Soon, Matrix is driving, with Charope and Steel following behind and Silver Swan and her birds flying over head .>>

<< Oracle, uses her abilities to tap into the traffic lights on their route, giving them an uninterrupted ride so they will not be idle in anyone place too long.>>

<< If any of the Inner Circle ARE out there, watching, lurking, trying to create an air of fear, they find the Birds of Prey are very aware, very focused, and a united front. IF someone is watching, trying to intimidate, they see that ROSE is not alone, and that she does have help, support, that she AND her children are cared about.>>

<< Eventually, they arrive at the Sanctuary, where Tachyon is already posted up, and Recall and Titan were once again "moved" by Isis' teleporting spell.>>

<< Charope and Steel reach the car [Matrix] and as the door opens, Steel helps Rose out, who in turn helps Jake to emerge. He's still covered in his blanket, and Rose carries him.>>

<< This time, everyone forms around Rose and Jake, while Sharon remains airborn and her gryfalcons are now sitting sentry on posts near the orphanage house. >>

<< Once inside, Rose brings Jake to his room, where she lays him on the bed. As she helps him settle, Gabe checks that the systems covering Rose's sanctuary and secret garden are fully online.>>

<< Tachyon and Silver Swan do one final GROUND and AIR sweep around the entire city block. Soon , Oracle hears from Charope that Jake and the rest of the children are secure. And soon, Rose is speaking to Oracle, and the rest of the team can hear her as well. >>

Rose: Thank you, very much for your assistance. Even though Jake is now home, the road to full recovery is still not complete. I'm still going to have to work with him to help him feel safe, and know that no one else will try to come carry him away in the middle of the night. The other children are going to be so happy to see him, to know that he's physically whole, but they too struggle with wonder if they'll EVER have a place in the outside world, with people like that horrible woman [Black Widow] on the loose. I hope that YOU all find her...and deal with her...because if not?

<< She shakes her hand and balls her fist, a halo of energy, which Recall notices is more WHITE than purple, forms for a moment.>>

Rose: WOE be until Black Widow, or any of those other perverted souls at that Hellfire Club, if they trespass here!

 

[Cypher]

Gabe sat back in his chair, staring at the matrix of symbols and numbers that filed down the screen. To anyone else, it would look like a jumbled mess of data or a systems error on a computer. But with Gabe's abilities it was like watching a video game and controlling it with his mind; the symbols making distinctive images that he was able to see clearly and navigate around. The 'hallway' to the information Zizi needed to get on Nedry was clear and accessible, allowing her to take a break and head into the kitchen to grab some more coffee. Gabe took this opportunity to shut his eyes for a moment, the matrix still coding in his head even while resting his eyes.

Zizi: "I thought you could use a fresh cup."

"Hmm?"

Opening his eyes, Zizi placed a hot cup of coffee down in front of him causing him to smile. He was going on nearly 48 hours of no sleep and starting to feel the effects.

"Thank you."

Gently rubbing her arm, he picked up the mug and brought it to his lips as Zizi leaned in close to him.

Zizi: "This one has some whiskey in it."

He grinned as she kissed his cheek.

"Okay, now you're just spoiling me."

He joked as he took a large gulp of the drink. He could taste the whisky, nodding with approval.

"Oh thank you alcohol Gods for this cup of heaven."

Taking another large drink as Rose popped up on Zizi's screen, Gabe watched as they discussed taking Jake home and how they were going to coordinate it. Leaning forward in his chair, he placed his mug down on the desk and watched in awe as Zizi acted like a bad ass army sergeant, telling everyone where to go, what positions to have, and how everything needed to be handled.

"Damn that's hot."

He whispered to himself, knowing Zizi was in full leader mode at the moment.

The transfer luckily went smoothly, both Rose and Jake returning to The Sanctuary without any problems. Gabe tapped into the security systems and informed Rose that everything looked perfect. So far so good. Now they just needed to worry about this Nedry guy and all the information they had just uncovered about him....but for right now, everyone was gone, and it was just him and Zizi.

Standing from his chair, Gabe moved behind Zizi and ran both of his hands up her collar bones and to her shoulders, sweeping her hair to one side.

Zizi: Orion, this is Oracle. Are you reading me?

He bent over, his mouth going to her ear despite her trying to contact Zach.

"You're incredible."

And she was. She was single handedly running this group and juggling the bullshit that Hellfire was sending their way.

Zizi: I've just received word that Jake is being released from the hospital. I've sent a team to ensure that he arrives back home safely. I thought you would want to know.

Gabe stood back up, gently massaging the length of Zizi's shoulders.

Zizi: I also think you and Valkyrie should come back to the Clocktower. It's the safest place for everyone to be. And it's time.

Sighing out, the day just kept getting better and better. Gently running his hands down Zizi's upper arms, he rubbed them reassuringly her that he wasn't going to say or do anything to make the already tense situation between himself, Zach, and Ashley worse. As much as THEY were in the wrong, he would take the high road.