Ororo's ghost story, part 3

[Rampage]

Nicolas was very quiet on the ride back to the heart of town, his mind racing. He was actually quite sad. Sad that this town he had grown to love was the source of such pain, and sad that he had subjected the young lady beside him to its dangers. He could sense her hesitance about continuing and he was weighted by remorse that he had kept her here. He drove on quietly until Haleigh finally broke the silence.

"Tonight they're going to unwittingly celebrate murder, Nicolas. If there was ever a time for revenge.... tonight's the night."

You're right, and it's not fair to you.

Nicolas quickly pulled over, leving the truck running as he turned to her.

Haleigh, you had no part in this. You are innocent in all of this. Take the truck, it is paid for and you are free to tranfer the title. You know enough of me to access my accounts. If you need anything, take it. But I do not want you to be hurt here. Not for my sake.

Nicolas had grown quite close to Haleigh, and saying this was evidently quite difficult. But he had already lost Alycia, Morgan was at risk, and he did not want to lose Haleigh as well. Not like this. Nicolas started to exit the truck...

 

[Firebird]

Morg's place

French manicured fingernails would tap absentmindedly across the kitchen table. A chime signaled the search had finished being conducted. Opening up her laptop, she pulled her glasses onto the bridge of her nose again. Curiously reading a few articles that managed to shed some light but not much.

"Hmm, well, I could visit Alison...although I'd probably have to bring the whole liquor store with me if I wanted to be in her good graces."

A playful chuckle had been ushered across her full lips, a jest on the mutant's part while she continued to browse various articles. "Elizabeth Dane." She spoke the ship's name out loud thinking back to the piece of wood Sharon's son had found. Both eyebrows would furrow together trying to piece the inklings together. What exactly did it all mean?

Lithe fingers would fly across her keyboard in an attempt to find anything about the snake but all Blaze found was a dead end. "Huh, odd." Everyone knew Morgan had a phobia of snakes. It was no coincidence that it had been there.

Curiously she researched old archived newspapers and online libraries of the town. A few pictures were provided. Gliding along onto them to double-click them. A few were mostly the waters of Arklay pointe and its development over the years, but what caught her eye was an eerie artist's painting of Thunder Bay during its time as a settlement. over the ocean waters of Arklay Pointe...the artist drew an ghostly looking fog that had the faint impression of a SKULL image within it. There was a group of men, dressed in clergymen clothing, huddled together in the background , as well as the church that Alison now owned as it was passed down to her from her great grandfather.

Leaning forward in her chair, the picture called out to Blaze, she could almost FEEL the faint eyes within the fog staring at her. This was something...but WHAT? Shivering she rubbed her arms, "Alright, this is just too creepy."

After Morgan had hung up with Ava, Blaze had showed her sister what she found.

"It really is! You can't tell me that these events are just coincidental."

Morgan advised that she would take the printed copies to Ava for inspection. "Okay, but I think we should rely on Alison as a LAST resort. That's one woman I'd rather not piss off."

Hugging Morgan, Blaze nodded again. "I will, I promise." Reassuring her sister, knowing how protective Morgan was over her. A side that hardly no one ever witnessed until dear friends and family.

With Morgan out of the mansion, Blaze would lull her frailed nerves with a relaxing bubble bath. It was just enough to relax her somewhat. The soothing warm water and scented vanilla and jasmine releasing the tension she had been carrying since all of the strange occurrences. Drying off she would dress into a simple pair of designer jeans and a form-fitting football jersey. Going with the more relaxed look since she was at home. Returning to the comforts of her room she pulled her hair down while placing her reading glasses onto the nearby nightstand.

Peering at the clock she climbed back into bed for a much needed nap.

 

[Arsenal]

Mike was a whirwing of motion that day. He kissed Karen goodbye as he left quickly for that morning. He was immediately on the phone with his staff, making sure that word of the ceremony's abrogation was passed through the channels. There were two plans: to either hustle everyone home and enforce a curfew orr to herd everyone in the same place or two so as to concentrate manpower and resources. The reason given was something vague about terroristic threats and was kept on deep underground so that no one questioned the cancellation of vacations or the offering of overtime.

Mike had just finished the preparations when he went to Karen's to give a report and mke sure she was OK. He noticed the heightened shut-down of the office and was a bit puzzled as he made his way to her office door.

Mike entered to find Delilah and Karen in the room in various states of concern. He walked into their midst, more than a bit puzzled and concerned.

hey Karen, Delilah.The adjusted preparations are done. Something else I should know about? How could it be any worse?

 

[Black Widow]

He pulled the truck over, and Haleigh just looked over at him, her tone deadpan:

"What, you want me to drive?"

You're right, and it's not fair to you.

She could see where he was going with this.

"No, that's not what I--"

Haleigh, you had no part in this. You are innocent in all of this. Take the truck, it is paid for and you are free to tranfer the title. You know enough of me to access my accounts. If you need anything, take it.

"Look, I appreciate what you're trying to do, but I've assessed the situation and all the possible outcomes, and I've made my decision, you're not gonna change my mi--"

But I do not want you to be hurt here. Not for my sake.

For a moment, Haleigh just stared at him blankly... then she gave a laughing scoff.

"Are you serious? I have been poked, prodded, experimented on, and genetically altered. THEN, I had to fight for my life... and had to watch the only Love i'd ever known fight for HIS life as well. [pausing painfully]That gunshot was the loudest thing I'd ever heard. And when I saw him grab his chest [placing her hand over her heart] it felt like the bullet had gone through MY heart. [pausing again, then her tone shifted with steely resolve] Stab me, shoot me, set me on fire. There's NOTHING that can HURT me anymore. I'm staying, and that's the end of it. IF you try to continue this conversation [drawing her pistol, setting it in her lap] I will shoot you in the face. [staring at him for a beat, then steamrolling on] Good choice. Now why don't we discuss something more important; what's the plan for tonight?"

 

[Shadow Weaver]

the mayor's office

"Do you think the townspeople will think it odd that the ceremony is so short? I know it's a...secondary...concern, but I'd hate for your approval rating to suffer for protecting your own citizens."

<< in response to Delilah's valid concern, Karen replies>>

Well...I have thought about that, more than once. But << looking at her assistant and her surrogate daughter>> could it be any worse than what I unknowingly made it? those things that Alison said were true. Too much has pointed to it. If i can keep the people of this town safe, while still at least acknowledging the historical mark of its existence...I'm comfortable with whatever criticism may come. Besides, our chief budget officer is a fiscal disciplinarian, we can always blame it on him for the "skimpy" celebration.

<< she said with a bit of a laugh, it was an inside joke amongst the staff how meticulous the finance officer was. but in truth, Karen would rather endure the complaints of the town rather than the screams of its citizens if they were to be caught in the fog that she and Delilah were SURE was coming.>>





<< After the representative from Vivan's arrived, Karen stood on the slightly elevated platform as the style consultant from Vivians did some last minute adjustments to her DRESS>>

hmm.

<< she said as she turned slowly at the request of the style consultant.>>

I think it will be quite nice. Perhaps we can change the colors?



<< The style consultant nodded. the young woman herself was gifted like Karen and Delilah, though with a much more "quiet" power..."Glamoring", and so changing the appearence of objects was her forte and made her chosen career path a logical one. As the leader in luxury and fashion coture, Vivans paid all their employee's quite well.>>

<< Karen looks over at Delilah who is also having her dress fitted to perfection as well.>>

How do you find your dress, Delilah?

Delilah: I think I'm glad we got our own rep and are not at the boutique with Morgan. She and Ava would monopolize the entire staff with their dress fitting. This dress is wonderfull though.


Karen: My daughter has always loved fashion. She and Ava DO tend to be a bit...demanding at times. I suppose that comes with youth and the belief that you'll be the center of attention for ever.

<< Karen says with a light tone as she imagines her daughter and Ava being total diva's at Vivians right about now.>>

still, I warned them both to take it easy this evening so I'm sure that will carry over into their preperations as well.


<< Mike arrives. the officers outside the doors let him through. Due to his unusual relationship with Mayor Victoria, neither Karen nor Delilah (too much) minds him being present during their dress fitting, although the style consultant for Delilah puts up a partition to obscure her view from Mike.>>

hey Karen, Delilah.The adjusted preparations are done. Something else I should know about? How could it be any worse?

Well...not necessarily.

<< Karen said as she lifted her arms to let the style consultant put the final touches on the dress.>>

Delilah was just discussing some fine details with me. We think everything is as ready as it will be.

<< from behind the partition>>


Delilah: Welcoming address, special remarks, lighting of candles, unveiling of the statue, processing by the statue...everyone go home.

<< Karen nodded at Delilah's short but to the point review of the evening's events.>>

Karen: its a scaled down affair, but with everything that's happened, what COULD happen...I can't take the risk.

<< she looks at Mike as the style consultant finishes and puts up a partition for her to change out of the dress and into a robe.>>

shouldnt you be getting ready soon?

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah had to smile at Karen’s political maneuvering – she certainly had learned to play the game well in her years of service to the town.

They had their final dress fittings – Karen looked elegant as ever, and Delilah had looked to her guidance and example on the subject of her own dress. She had learned in her time with Karen that how well one dressed was just as important as how well-spoken or intelligent one was. Unfortunately so, it seemed.

Delilah’s nose bristled just a tad as Mike stormed into the office. She understood that he meant no harm, but they were dressing. Luckily her important parts D) were covered and she was quickly ushered behind a screen by the stylist.

She raised her voice, albeit probably unnecessarily, from behind the screen, as she adjusted the dress’ fit.

“Have you called in extra manpower for tonight? I know you know this - but we need to be ready for anything.”

She felt a sense of extreme foreboding about the evening ahead, and she now wasn't entirely sure they shouldn't cancel the whole thing. But that was irrational, and she knew it. The show must go on, but at least it would be an abbreviated show. She hoped.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas froze for a second as Haleigh let him know under no uncertain terms that she would not be going anywhere. He mulled it over as she assumed it was all decided, then laughed heartily. He popped Haleigh's thigh good-naturedly, with just enough strength to warm it a bit as he continued to laugh. He began to compose himself a bit as he turned back onto the road.

I guess we should hurry home before you hurt someone with that.

Nicolas headed toward his home. He had already "borrowed" a dress from the designer Haleigh most liked and he had it on her bed.

 

[Arsenal]

Mike entered the dressing room, apparently forgetting that Delilah and Karen were nearly joined at the hip. He looked away SOME as Delilah was hustled behind a screen (hell, she WAS fine, and he was ONLY a man. But he would never do Karen like THAT) and turned so that he was addressing Karen's screen's ONLY. He almost started as Delilah ROARED at him.

“Have you called in extra manpower for tonight? I know you know this - but we need to be ready for anything.”

I assure you, every vacation in Thunder Bay has been screwed up, and everyone from Harbor Patrol to Sheriff and City Police are alerted and as ready as they can be. Even Nicolas' security staff from the warehouses has been armed and deputized.

shouldnt you be getting ready soon?

WEEEEELLLLL...its honestly not that big a deal for guys. I have selected a nice dress uniform...duty calls. But I am glad to see..almost...that you have pulled out all the stops.

Mike joking about not seeing Karen in all her glory behind the partition as he noted the color choice made. He would have matching flowers sent to her, anonymously of course. She did not note anything else earthshattering and Delilah was efficient as always. So he nodded to them both and turned on his heels. He DID have an appointment for a haircut, wash, scalp massage, manicure and pedicure. Who says girls should have ALL the fun?:heee:

Take care, ladies. I will see you tonight.

 

[Seer]

into the evening

<< and so, those that we watch and the whole town prepared for the evening. some dressing to impress, others simply wearing what they had and making the best. it was supposed to be an evening when even social class didnt divide. It would be an evening where everyone came together...but would it be for the LAST TIME?>>

<< the fog horns toll mournfully along the coast line and waters of Arklay pointe. dusk gives way to evening, there's a cool breeze in the air and a strange clarity in the starry night sky. the Arklay light house, which is owned by Sharon, is fully operational this evening. its shining light spins with at a steady , consistent speed. its more than a symbolic gesture to coincide with the 100th birthday of the town...it is to serve as a strong beacon across the waters to the ships at sea this evening which is filled with uncertainty.>>

<< Sharon herself will not be at the festivities, but will be broadcasting over the radio with a special selection of songs and live updates.>>

<< Nicolas and Haleigh will not be at the ceremony either. Nicolas is heeding Alison's words that he not go to the heart of the town, and instead he will be at a posh local tavern where his path will cross with Morgan and Ava as well as they stop in for their evening cocktail.>>

<< Alison, of course, will not be attending. She will be at her home on the grounds of the large gothic church, one of the oldest historical sights of this town since before it was even a township. >>

<< Karen and Delilah, along with Mike will be downtown in the town square...and Blaze, who was not feeling well, decided that she too would put on something cute and go to the tavern before returning home to the mansion. She'd have a chance to hob knob with her sister and Ava, as well as see Nicolas. Morgan, Ava and Blaze would all come in contact with Haleigh for the first time as well...and Haleigh would see how the "rich girls" of this town behaved.>>

<< the Tavern was already abuzz with happiness and excitement as Sharon's sultry voice cooed over the sound system and music by female electronica artist DJ Rap played.>>

<< the night was beginning well enough, but it was too early to exhale yet.>>



<<

 

[Silver Swan]

at the Arklay Lighthouse- RSK radio

[at the lighthouse of Arklay Pointe. Sharon, b.k.a. Thunder Bay's "Silver Swan" lights the sea and leads the town into its evening with her highly popular radio program.]

[ she sits in the DJ's booth which is at the top of the lightouse, with the light that spins flashing through her booth at regular interviews. she looks radiant this evening, with her hair perfectly styled in the updated "farrah fawcett" feather, wearing a silver donna karan, clingy, V neck blouse and figure flattering calvin klein jeans along with some silver high heeled boots.]

[ despite being older than Morgan, Ava and Blaze, Sharon was a woman with a youthfull appearence and as some men on the dock would say, a "bangin' body" the woman had been a successfull entertainer and had been seen on TV, magazines and overseas. She knew how to keep herself up and without plastic surgery.]

[ her voice was bewitching, enhanced by her sonic based powers, it was one of the secrets to her success as a singer and now a radio personality.]

[ Kyle was at home, with his baby sitter. from the lighthouse, she could see her ocean front loft and that made it easier for her to leave him there tonight. The sitter had her phone number as well as the direct numbers to Mike and Nicolas if there was an emergency...and Kyle was learning how to use his emerging psychic abilities to reach out to his mother on the astral plane as well. overall, Sharon felt that it was okay to be at the lighthouse for this broadcast. with the ceremony being cut short, she'd be home with her son at the midnight hour.]

[ as "good to be alive" by DJ Rap played over the radio, Sharon bobbed her head to the dance beat, smiling a bit as she selected the next songs for the play list. it was time for her to greet her listeners across Thunder Bay once more.]

Greetings Thunder Bay, and happy birthday from your Silver Swan.

The weather report calls for a clear, cool, breezy evening. Might make it a little hard for the candle light procession past the statue but don't worry, I'll be lighting the way for all of you. If you can't go to the town square to celebrate with our lovely mayor, Karen Victoria, then celebrate with me! I'll be keeping you company until the midnight hour so sit back, enjoy the evening and let me lead the way.

[ with that, she cues up the next song, the remix of "Just fine" by Mary J. Blige. It's the closest to "hip hop" that she'd ever get when it came to her play list.]

[ the local tavern plays a little something special, a perfectly edited and timed montage of the "Silver Swan" herself from her days as an entertainer, dancing before showing the corresponding "just fine" remix video on its large flat screen. some patrons happily dance, while others just enjoy the atmosphere, looking glamorous.]

[ back at the lighthouse, no longer talking live, Sharon calls the local weather service center to talk to Carl.]

Carl: Talk to me.

Sharon: Carl, its Sharon.

Carl: To what do i owe this pleasure, sweet Sharon?

Sharon: Save it Carl. I'm just calling because i wanted to get any updates you had on the weather forcast this evening?

Carl: Nothing unusual. Why, you expecting some bad weather?

Sharon: Well...I just wanted to be prepared, in case I had to inform my listeners. There's going to be alot of people out in the town square and at the tavern.

Carl: Well don't you worry pretty lady, you got me....

Sharon: [ coldly interrupting] i'm SURE that i DONT WANT YOU. besides, You're just a voice on the phone.

Carl: meOOWWWW [ both amused and slightly wounded by her cold dismissal] and you're just a voice on the radio. We'd make a perfect couple. You let me take you to dinner tonight, I'll prove it to you.

Sharon: My idea of perfection is a voice on the phone do you EVER get serious? [ she asks in an exasperated tone.]


Carl: I just meant that if anything changes on the scanners, I'll make sure you're the first to know.

Sharon: thank you Carl. talk to you later.

[ and with that, they hang up and Sharon continue's on with her evening of broadcasting, not yet aware of just how vital her role in the lighthouse will be tonight.]

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas drove back to his place with Haleigh, his irrepressible good spirits back once again. He answered Haleigh's question about a plan.

Alison expressly warned against us being at the main party, which is fine with me. We will instead head to Donder and Blitzen, a large local high-end tavern, winery, and microbrewery. Many people will instead be there as they celebrate, and the dress code will be mixed but will top out as posh as the main affair. To that end, I have selected an ensemble for you. I hope you like it, but I will make any adjustments you wish if you do not.

Nicolas turned into the house and hopped out, opening Haleigh's door for her as he led her to the house. As she entered the guest room, she would find that he had "stocked" it with her favorites, from her favorite perfume and makeup to her preferred toiletry items so she could get all dolled up for the affair. On the bed was an exquisite designer dress and matching peep-toe heels.

In addition, the room 's decor had changed to her favorite color from the white it was, and it was decorated in her favorite flowers. Nicolas had apparently been quite busy in the last few minutes.

As Haleigh took in the new sight, Nicolas undressed in his suite and stepped into his massive shower, turning the hot water all the way up as he allowed it to rinse away the day's worries, if only for a few moments. He needed to center himself for the hours ahead, not knowing what they might bring...

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah stood in the town square, eyes flitting around her like a secret service agent's, just waiting for something out of the ordinary to happen. She was on her cell phone, finishing some last minute checking on the preparations. Finishing her call and putting her phone away snugly in her small bag, she smoothed her deep blue-gray dress and looked at Karen. Trying to put on a reassuring smile, she updated her boss.

"Everything seems to be going on schedule, and will be ready in time for the ceremony."

She gazed around her at the pronounced but discreet police presence in the square.

"And Mike's certainly come through as usual. Plans are in place to evacuate the square if necessary."

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Downtown- the town square

<< sitting ever so elegantly in the center seat on the stage in the square, Mayor Karen Victoria was the picture of pristine elegance in her escada dress and matching escada high heels.>>

<< she held the floral arrangment that Mike [anonymously] ordered for her.>>

<< as townspeople gathered in the townsquare sharing in the excitment and happiness of the evening so far, Karen looked at Delilah.>>

good to hear. and maybe whatever higher power there is tonight will smile on us and allow this go go down without any incident. at least long enough for the people to get back to their homes.

<< she ran her hand through her flip styled hair and then over the string of exquisite pearls that adorned her neck.>>

Most of the people are either here or at the Tavern. Morgan called me and said that she and Ava were making a "cameo" at the Tavern before joining us here. Blaze is at the Tavern as well. We know where everyone is, so that makes me feel better.

<< she looks up to the starry night sky.>>

There isnt a hint of "fog" in the air, and with the breeze, maybe...just maybe there wont be.

<< she knew that it was less than likely, but she tried her best to be hopefull. it was the only way she could keep from vomiting from the anxiety she was hiding beneath her beautifull exterior.>>

Just a little while longer until show time...

<< she says as she looks out over the crowd in the town square.>>

 

[Arsenal]

Mike made his entrance seemingly from nowhere, a by-product of his Naval training. he walked up to the two women, his bearing erect and looking and feeling like a million bucks in his police chief dress uniform. He had ordered another for this occasion and he was decked out in a double-breasted black uniform with gold buttons and a pure white shirt with black tie and matching white gloves. He sported well-shined black shoes and what appeared to be a long decorative walking cane with a golden eagle on it. His guns, well holstered in oiled black, were a pair of golden desert eagles, custom made with semi and automatic firing modes. Even his hat was well-worn in the military custom. He nodded at both women, taking a second to appreciate Delilah before focusing on Karen.

Delilah, you look wonderful. Pretty and smart fit you quite well. And Karen...(he whispers as he leans forward in what appears to be a harmless greeting with him taking her hand), you look good enough to EAT.

Mike cleared his throat, his message delivered as he desired it to be, and spoke of business.

The men have their orders. Karen, in case...something happens to me, take this.

Mike gives her a tube that appears to be lipstick. He opens it and there is a small microphone inside.

It is on the frequency of the the security teams. just turn it as if to apply lipstick and you will be able to speak with the chain of command. You will also give off a GPS ping that each team will be able to home in on. Just in case.

 

[Black Widow]

They were going to a tavern to keep tabs on the festivities while remaining withdrawn from the nucleus of the affair.... and Haleigh let Nicolas led her back into the house and to the guest room, which he had tailored to her preferences. It was a very sweet gesture. the whole room was filled with the fragrance of white oleander, as there were several 'bouquets' of the plant throughout the area. Haleigh gently touched a blossom.

"Nicolas, this is-- [seeing the dress, she gave a soft smile] Well, thank goodness you have good taste."

She joked, as he left to get ready. She took the time to freshen up. The dress fit her perfectly, and somehow she managed to completely conceal her pistol beneath it. One never knew when they might need a little firepower and Haleigh was always prepared.

 

[MorningStar]

There isnt a hint of "fog" in the air, and with the breeze, maybe...just maybe there wont be.

Delilah couldn’t help but cringe a little. Karen just had to go and jinx them! But superstitions aside, she just wasn’t feeling that lucky today.

Seeing Karen’s nerves through her hard exterior, Delilah gently put a hand on the mayor’s arm.

“It’ll all be over soon. Try not to worry.”

Mike arrived, and complimented both women.

“Thank you, Mike.”

Delilah smiled sincerely. He looked very dashing in his dress uniform. Delilah had always admired those on the police force. Though she had chosen a different path of community service, she greatly respected those that put their lives on the line for others. Perhaps in another life…

Mike gave Karen a communications device – good thinking, on his part. Now if something happened that was one less thing to worry about. She took a deep breath and exhaled, willing the evening to be over already.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas finished dressing and put on his best custom-tailored Armani suit, in a grey that was the same as the trim on Haleigh's dress, with a pure white shirt and a black and grey bowtie and layered hankerchief in his front pocket. He emerged into the main room and watched as Haleigh made her entrance. He gave her a lewd whistle that would make any dockworker proud, then walked over to her, giving her a hug and looking her over again before looking her directly in the eye as he spoke.

You look MARVELOUS. No matter what happens tonight, YOU are in BIG trouble, young lady.

He led her to the garage, where he pulled out his finest toy, and the reason why he had no other cars besides work trucks. He opened the door of a burgundy and black Bugatti Veyron and motioned for her to enter, before closing it and hopping in.

Driving to the tavern in the supercar took next to no time, with less than one song being played by the Silver Swan on the radio before they arrived at Donder and Blitzen, managing to be just in time to be seen yet not before the party was in full swing.

He parked the car and opened Haleigh's door, leading her into the posh venue...

 

[Spellbinder]

Morgan's mansion

<< Morgan tossed her hair back as she stood in her three way mirror, doing one last turn in her own white Dolce & Gabanna cocktail halter dress. keeping it simple she wore a Gucci platinum wrist cuff which played off the detail in the dress. she wore high heeled slides that accented her trademark long, smooth, flawless legs. >>

...on the cover of a magazine!

<< checking the finishing touches of her make up her sparkling eyeshadow and lipgloss, the woman winked at herself in the mirror.>>

Grace Kelly, Harlow Jean...picture of a beauty QUEEN!

<< she purred another line from one of her FAVORITE classic Madonna songs with satisfaction as she turned around in the mirror to admire her back end. The dress, from Vivian's, fit her perfectly and with her down and perfectly styled she looked like a diamond princess this evening.>>

<< Tinkerbell lay on the bed, contentedly rolling about after having been given a treat of catnip. As Morgan passed by her large bed, show allowed the tip of her perfectly french manicured nails to gently brush over Tinker's fur, to which the cat made a soft mew as she continued to lay or roll on the bed.>>

Blaze, are you ready?? Ava and I will take you to the tavern. We planned on making a cameo there anyway before heading to the town square.

<< Morgan wasnt TERRIBLY concerned about being seen "on time". being fashionably late was a given where she and Ava were concerned, this way any woman who was at the tavern would be quickly forgotten once she and and Ava made the scene in their expensive outfits, perfectly applied make up and styled hair which complimented their celebrated figures.>>

<< she grabs her satin, white D&G clutch with its platinum buckle and struts down the hall and to the stairs, pulling out her phone, she dials Ava and waits for the goddess to pick up.>>

<< as she waits she looks out of the picture window in the sitting room of her mansion. its a clear, starry night out. mild with a breeze in the air. a fog shouldnt be able to settle in this breezy weather, but just the other night the fog rolled in and Ava indicated it was NOT natural.>>

what if it comes back?

<< she says softly as she stars at and through her own refracted image in the glass window. Now all there was to do was wait for Ava to pick up and Blaze to come down stairs so they could get read to leave.>>

 

[Harbinger]

the gothic church

:: in her black, low cut corsett with its silver accents and black mini skirt, Alison casually walked from the back offices through the hall and into the main sanctuary of the gothic church. a bottle of hemlock in hand, she was already in the process of getting drunk for the evening, but never had a drunk looked so glamorous and pretty as she did.::

on they go, rushing down the path to certain destruction...

:: her cold voice echoes through the dark passages and around the dimly lit sanctuary as she slowly looks around.::

and here i am...alone in this place, this place of false comfort where foolish mortals come to satisfy their pitiful need to find purpose or solace.

:: her high heeled, front lace up boots click and echo along the floors as she saunters about before sitting on the carpeted steps near the alter.::

The night is clear now, but soon they will come, their appetite their DEMAND for vengeance will respect no person, place or thing.

:: she gulps down more Hemlock.::

and I will GLADLY face them if it means setting my brother FREE from their grasp.

I DONT CARE about you...or what you want! I WANT MY BROTHER TO BE AT PEACE!

:: she yells out in a hostile , slightly slurred tone. Cameron haunts her in her dreams, on the astral plane. his soul cries out for his sister to set him free...its the PAIN of not being able to help him among other things that drives her to drink so heavily. part of her could care less about what happens tonight but she knows that this may be her only chance to set her brother (and ultimately the others like Alycia, Christopher and Robert) free from the grip of this curse.::

:: she lays back on the steps and laughs a bit as she looks over. an extremely large cross fashioned from the purest of gold sits there, gleaming even in the dark sanctuary. THIS was what Alison found when she BLEW OUT the hall in the wall in her office that Nicolas had seen earlier.::

this cross...this TRITE symbol of man's obsession with religion...is all that's left of the gold that was stolen from James Marcus and his colony. My great grandfather and his fellow clergy men, melted the gold down and formed THIS...as if GOD had anything to do with their treachery.

:: talking aloud as she lays back on the thick , dark red carpeting of the steps and stage around the alter, looking up to the barrel vaulted ceiling where some angelic statues can be seen high above. the statues could be WATCHING alison for all she knew, but she didndt care.::

the fog will come, the spirits will make their final strike! but i'll be here...WAITING!

:: she said loudly, as if she were baiting the spirits of Marcus and his men.::

:: the others took part in the celebration, while Alison choose to wait...and drink of course ::

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Downtown- Townsquare

<< as those in attendance enjoyed themselves in the town square. Mike greeted Delilah and Karen. She looked a bit concerned at first but he managed to make sure his greeting appeared to be casual and thankfully no one heard what he said to her, except perhaps Delilah.>>

<< the mayor's eyebrows raised a bit before she turned her head.>>

<< ahem.>> thank you, Chief. Now, if you'll kindly take your seat over there

<< gesturing to his spot near Karen and Delilah.>>

We'll be read to begin shortly.

<< she said as she crossed one leg over the other at the knee and leaned over to Delilah.>>

Hmph! That cloakroom cassanova! Even out in the open, he makes his little overtures! He KNOWS how i feel about that.

<< appearence was very important to the mayor and discretion was equally important. Karen was sure that only Delilah had heard Mike's comment and she knew he meant no real harm...but both he AND Delilah knew how insistant Karen was about certain things.>>

<< she looks at her diamond watch and then around the area as a few others selected to sit on stage joined them. >>

I wonder what's keeping Morgan and Ava. It'll be time to begin soon. I'd hate for them to miss the unveiling of the statue.