Rose of Destruction II

[Tachyon]

Of course SHE is.

:: Nudging Xavier with a laugh::

The spirit of Gaea brings life to everyone, even beyond the shores of Themyscira.

:: She was definitely in a lighter mood.::

:: She waited to see what Danny would say in response. It WAS an interesting question.::

Xavier chuckled heartily, leaning back into Alycia. She was easy to hang out with.

Well, most ancient societies refer to the Earth as a fertile mother. I tend to think they knew more than we give them credit for.

 

[Black Widow]

The Hellfire Club -- Catacombs

Kelly agreed to their deal, and Haleigh rose to her feet, ready to leave the Black Queen to her own devices, but Kelly gestured for Haleigh to sit down again.

Kelly: Let me give you some advice, Scion.

Haleigh's eyebrow peaked, a physical manifestation of her curiosity.

"Sure, why not?"

She said, settling back into the exam chair again.

Kelly: When I alluded to drowning my newborn baby in the ocean, I was drawing a picture for you. One I would like to ensure you received.

"You murdered your own daughter. It's a pretty clear picture."

Haleigh replied in a steely tone. Kelly spoke of the pain and stress of carrying Alison to term, and the disorienting near death experience of childbirth, as well as a bounty being placed on her by Diana. Haleigh listened as the Black Queen of Hellfire described sacrificing to bring her firstborn to life with a demeanor that was detached and almost clinical.

Kelly: I don't remember feeling love when I looked into my daughter's eyes.

"Do you even know what love feels like?"

Haleigh interjected. Kelly continued to explain her motive. As much as Haleigh didn't want to raise any children of her own, she'd never bring one to term just to turn around and drown it. The accidental shooting of Jake O'Reilly had been monstrous enough. What Kelly had intentionally done was unthinkable to Haleigh. She hid her horror behind a cold mask of boredom that implied she cared little for this verbose 'advice'. She appeared to be wondering if Kelly would ever arrive at her point.

Kelly: I made a mistake, and it was too late, but I had no choice but to correct it. I learned that killing her was the compassionate thing to do.

Haleigh watched Kelly carefully, sensing the direction that the Black Queen was taking her, realizing just what kind of advice she was getting. Her gazed never wavered, but her expression did change from disinterest to contemplation.

Kelly: The embers of MysTech will burn for an enternity. We've made sure of that. You are looking in a mirror when you need to be looking out the window. Because even if you die, Haleigh? They live. They now live in a world where Diana's most prized possession has been destroyed, and they will burn for it. Because you will have died trying to save THEM.

"It was a better plan than them dying to save me -- WHICH: we all know they can't."

She replied bitterly.

Kelly: If above all logic and understanding, they are able to pull one over on Malice. Circumvent her with pathways she has no control over... They will burn, the clock will be reset, and Diana will seek to claim you once again, with bloody vengeance.

"Well I've almost got them to stop WANTING me back, and then we won't have to worry about that anymore."

Kelly: These are the only options you see, Scion. They fill your head with chaos and pain. Because neither of them are really viable to you. Or at the very least tangible. But there is another option.

"If you suggest I kill my mother to eliminate the primary antagonist in this predicament, I will be forced to strike YOU down before you even finish the sentence."

Haleigh warned dutifully, but that wasn't the trap Kelly was trying to place her in at all. The Black Queen had a different snare to set up for her. Kelly told her that she'd already come so far, and gotten the hard part over with. That Haleigh had broken the hearts and tortured the minds of the people she'd loved, but she had yet to actually kill any of them. The case was the same with Seph. They were both holding back.

Kelly: There is a part of you still holding on.

"No, I've let them go. But even though I've turned my back on them, the truth is..."

She paused, looking at Kelly as if she were reconsidering her next statement. She took a deep breath. There was no sense in lying if no one would believe it.

"The truth is, I can't imagine living in a world without all of them in it."

She finished in a gravelly tone.

Kelly: I cannot fault you for that, but I can offer a solution.

The Black Queen said, and then she elaborated, and suggested that the most compassionate thing was for Haleigh to put them out of their collective misery.

Kelly: You were created to be a weapon. Death is your gift, Haleigh. But it doesn't have to be YOUR death.

Haleigh gave her a rueful smile.

"That's why I'm making them hate me enough to try to kill me. That way after I cut them down.... I can tell myself it was self-defense.... and maybe I won't be dead inside forever."

She replied darkly.

Kelly: Pending Diana's approval, I will be in touch, Scion. I look forward to showing you the deeper mysteries of what it is that we do here. Until then.

"So long....."

Haleigh said as Kelly left her unattended in the lab.

 

[Silver Swan]

The Parthenon- Ambrosia to Central Park

[ It was so easy to talk to Darren, just like it had been with Bobby. He was engaged, and genuine, and offered relevant insight. he didn't seem to recoil, or shy away from where she went in the conversation. So many others couldn't understaand, but from Simon to Rae, it seemed like things were becoming clearer, and falling in line for Sharon, and as if on CUE, Darren appeared! But it was too soon to say what, if ANYTHING this night would mean. For now, it was just good food (Sharon allowed herself to eat, even though her need for sustenance was diminished, since being mutated into her current form) and truly good company.]

"Well, I always appreciated your efforts, Sharon. I highly doubt I was the only one. It's a shame if no one ever thanked you. People can be inconsiderate sometimes."

[ She couldn't help but smile. It was nice to hear this, and it echoed some of what Simon had said.]

Thank you.

Yes, some people CAN be very inconsiderate....or worse...FORGETFUL.

[ She sighed as she remained thoughtful for a moment, and caught a glimpse of the large, beautiful, glowing MOON outside. ]

[ She listened as Darren continued, and she felt that Alycia wasn't the only one who noticed, OR felt the cosmic "kiss" of the moon tonight, nor was she the only one who was now feeling able to MOVE ON from certain thoughts, feelings, and even people that had been a source of anguish, including Ashley Oldenburg.]

[ This was SHARON'S city, She'd been a champion for the marginalized , the weakest, the least understood or wanted across the city and state in a way that Oldenburg could never understand or be capable of duplicating, and there was no need for Sharon to pay any attention to Ashley's lack of insight, and petty, one dimensional insults where the amazons were concerned. Sharon had traveled the world, and BEYOND this world, and she'd come BACK from the dead, and not only did she FOIL her would be "Masters'" attempts to use her as a weapon to pervert her legacy and advance their agenda, she became a member of a LEGENDARY, divinely gifted race of women who were as old as time itself!]

[ The time for her to be bogged down with the foolishness of others, was past, and sitting here, looking at Darren, listening to him, she was reminded that there were PLENTY of people around the city who DID value her in her current form, and for what she did now. Rose's children, Katie in particular, along with some media outlets, had even dubbed her "Wonder Woman."]

I lost my way for a while, Darren.

I don't take coming back from the dead lightlly. It's a status that...few in this world, super powered or not, will ever know. But at the same time...it leaves you in a place you never imagined, and I understand now, why so many other immortals throughout history were driven to madness.

I was...I AM forever grateful that the goddesses, namely ATHENA, looked upon me with favor, and with the amazon's help, I began to find and put the pieces of myself back together.

Now? I'm finally feeling the ALIGNMENT I've wanted...NEEDED for so long.

And sitting here, looking at you, under this beautiful moon that hangs over the city...I find myself wondering if Athena...and Aphrodite, aren't smiling upon me once more.

[ she allowed her hand to be taken into his hand ]


[ They continued...]

He said, and then paused as the waiter came back with their appetizers and they relayed their entree order. When they were alone again, he found her eyes with his.

"And yet, you know what? You're MORE than JUST 'the vengeful Silver Swan'. Be a superhero if you want, or be a senator. Be both, or neither. Do what makes YOU happy. You deserve a fulfilling life as well, Sharon."

That is just what I intend to do, Darren.

[ She smiled at him, and took a satisfying drink.]

<< Dinner is served and enjoyed. A short while later, Darren, and Sharon are now walking together in a slightly breezy Central Park, under the clear night sky, and that beautiful moon.>>

[ As they walk, with Sharon's arm wrapped around Darren's, they enjoy soft sound of nature, the breeze flowing through the leafy canopies of the treas around them. There's no need to worry about being assaulted, no one would be STUPID enough to try the Silver Swan, except perhaps a member of the Inner Circle]

The moon is so beautiful tonight, much like the man I'm waking with now.

[Yes he was truly beautiful, she could NEVER get tired of looking at him, of being so close to him, feeling his aura, taking in his scent, and presence!]

I wanted to come here with you because I spend a lot of time in the park. I come here to think, meditate, and communicate.

One of the aspects of my power is telepathic communication, and control over all species of birds. This gives me a whole other level of awareness and perception around the city.

I "talk" to my feathered friends, and I listen. I learn from them. The show me many things that people wouldn't expect me to know, including leading me people who need my help!

There's so much going on.

The city never truly sleeps...and since my transformation into a mutate, my need for sleep is not what it once was.

Sometimes...all I have...is the company of the birds, especially my precious gryfalcons.

You haven't met them yet...most people are intimidated by them because of their size and appearence, but Artemis and Antiope are sweet and well behaved.

[ She stops, and moves to stand in front of Darren, facing him]

Even though I'll be remaining in the city, I won't be "the vengeful Silver Swan" ALL of the time.

It would be nice...to have some more...HUMAN company.

[ She smiles at him a bit as the breeze flows a bit, and she tucks some of her blonde hair behind her ear]

Perhaps you could help me with that?

 

[Oracle]

The Clocktower

As Zizi & Gabe made their way into the Clocktower after a long - albeit in the end enjoyable - evening and and even longer day before that, Gabe expressed his apprehension at the possibility of catching Zach & Ashley in the middle of something.

"Maybe if we're lucky they're asleep."

"I probably should have texted when we left Rose's."

She got the distinct feeling he didn't like them much, and her earlier explanation of their odd behavior clearly hadn't changed his mind.

"I really don't wanna get the fucking 3rd degree again."

"You won't. I'll have a word with them, I promise."

Which was going to be a touchy subject, because she knew they were both acting out of care for her, and their hearts were in the right place.

As they entered the main living space, Ashley popped up from the sofa, wearing the throw like a sarong. So Gabe hadn't been wrong...and not that she was all that surprised. But she still blushed, more because Gabe was standing there than anything else. In truth, she was happy for both of them.

"How was dinner?

"It was nice. Rose seemed much better. I'm sure she's going to change her mind about you real soon Zach, honey."

She offered a supportive smile.

"We're just gonna get out of your hair."

"No need, we just have some things to work on."

But Ashley still took Zach back into her room. She expected they would be hearing noises soon, which was only going to make things more embarassing. But for now, there was cheesecake to eat.

"Anyway. Cheesecake and research awaits. I'm gonna grab some forks. You wanna drink beer? Or coffee?"

"Hmm...milk with the cheesecake. Then beer. Assuming there are any left."

He went into the kitchen to get forks and drinks, and she got the systems up and running, setting him up at a workstation and calling up her files on various mutants, which would 3D project in front of him. Then she loaded up the various footage streams from the fight earlier that night.

She watched him walk towards her on his return from the kitchen and smiled.

"I want to marry whoever invented cheesecake."

She did a little happy dance in her seat. Ash & Zach came out of her bedroom then, dressed this time, Ashley carrying a bag. She told her they would be at Zach's, but she didn't say for how long.

"Okay, well, be careful."

Ashley just waved her off and continued out the door.

She turned to Gabe, taking a fork from him and starting to open the bag from Sweet Treats.

"Somebody up there must like you: we don't have to spend the night listening to them. Hey, do you know anyone who does soundproofing?" She was only half joking.

 

[MorningStar]

Molloy's

They bantered a bit during the game, Delilah disputing where she got to stand for her throws.

"That's one of those trendy gender neutral lines, so you can bat those pretty blue eyes at me all you want, it won't make a lick of difference."

"Chivalry is truly dead."

She tried to distract him by mentioning The Queen, but he was cool as a cucumber, making three perfect throws.

"Would you like me to introduce you? I handle her financial interests on Wall Street."

Delilah's mouth gaped open. Who was this guy?

"Just kidding, I've never met the broad, but you should SEE your face right now."

"Oh ho ho! So the finance guy can make a joke."

She stepped up to take her turn, then tapped the darts agains the side of her head.

"Is calling the Queen a 'broad' like treason or something for you guys?"

She grinned.

"I mean, I'd hate for some MI-5 agent to barge in and carry you off before I can beat you."

She turned back to the board, throwing the darts in quick succession, hitting the triple 20 each time before retrieving them from the board and handing them back to Gavin.

"I can't wait to hear how well you can sing."

From what she'd seen of this guy so far, he probably did that perfctly too.

 

[Valkyrie]

To EOS Nomad

Zach hailed them a cab, and she slid inside, moving aside so that he could sit next to her. She rested her head on his shoulder and her hand on his thigh, thoroughly relaxed feeling his body touching hers, and happily thinking about being someplace where they didn't have to worry about anyone barging in. Finally.

When they arrived at his building, he paid the driver then helped her out of the car. They made their way inside, where the doorman informed Zach he had a delivery of two shopping bags.

"Oh, that was me. I has some supplies delivered here."

The doorman carried them to the elevator and set them inside, and she stepped in after them. Reaching Zach's apartment, she followed him inside. His place was amazing - it seemed like everything was windows.

She put her hands on his chest and slid them up around his neck.

"Alone at last."

She kissed him, holding it, then pulling away and taking a few steps back, looking at him through lowered lashes.

"Which way is the shower?"

When he pointed she turned, kicking off her heels as she crossed the floor. She stopped in the doorway, and turned back to him, unbuttoning her dress and letting it slip just off her shoulders. She arched an eyebrow invitingly before continuing through the door and letting the dress fall completely to the floor. She didn't look back to see if he followed her, instead going into the bathroom and turning on the shower.

 

[Citadel]

Rose's Brownstone

:: Dinner was spectacular as it always was at Rose's and his friend knew him well. When he left there would be several containers of leftovers that he would take home with him and feast for several days. Or he would bring it to the community center the next day and let the kids get a taste of Italy. As dinner wore down, Rose poured them all a nice short glass of tequila with a large orb like ice cube in the center. Taking slow and deliberate sips he watched as everybody digested their meals and took a minute to relax. Gabe and Zizi made their exit fairly quickly but those who remained gathered in the parlor room and let the good times continue to roll. ::

:: He sensed as Alycia entered the room and offered her a drink as he sat down next to her. ::

Alycia: "What a lovely evening. That moon is beautiful."

:: Danny laughed taking a sip of his tequila as he gave Alycia a cheeky look. ::

"Snap out of it!"

:: They didn't have much of a chance to talk during dinner as everybody was busy gorging themselves on the food and he was hoping that Alycia had processed what he said about Simon earlier and might consider working with him in some capacity. The kid needed a leg up and if there was anybody who could understand what it was that he was trying to do, it would be Alycia. ::

Alycia: "So, Danny, about Simon Pratt. You're sure that this isn't some IMPULSE on his part? You know like when everyone from Paris Hilton, and Lindsay Lohan, to Roseanne, was suddenly into Kaballah, just because Madonna was?"

:: He smirked again, almost cracking another joke before becoming a bit more stoic and serious. ::

"Simon watched over three dozen children burn right in front of him. I just don't think anything you do from that point on is from sheer impulse alone."

Alycia: "The law...interpreting it, and using it to protect the weak and the marginalized...is NOT sexy work. Lines will often be drawn, and you learn very quickly who you can and can't trust. You end up weeding out people you THOUGHT were your friends, or trustworthy....even FAMILY."

"That's what he's doing right now. He's about to lose his entire family over this. He just found out his mother has been Diana's right hand woman for longer than he's been alive...and he's still doing it. Even if that is a stupid decision on his part. That takes real BALLS. Putting himself out there like that might just get him killed. But he persists."

Alycia: "I know Simon's backstory and I've seen the way he behaves..up until recently. But I also know what he's been through recently. And regardless of the opposite entrances into this arena that he and I have...we're both survivors...and friends of Rose, that's who we're all here for tonight."

"And he's shown up, Alycia. Rose says he visits several times a week. I mean, I try to put my own time in here as best I can. I am often Rose's personal sentry, but he's putting in the time. He spends time with Rose. With these kids. He hasn't forgotten what's happened to him."

Danny: "This isn't a short term project, Danny."

"Nothing ever worth doing is."

Alycia: "Even after tonight, or tomorrow morning...there will still be a need for vigilance. The NEED that Rose is trying to fullfill, it will be there...so strong, so deep. To meet it, and to address the problems that these children, and mutants in general face requires a level of tenacity that I don't know HE has."

"I get what your saying. I've seen a lot of people in this city fall flat on their face and leave their promises unfullfilled. But I'm from the frame of mind that if there are those that have a genuine desire to help, we should help them try. Pay it forward."

Alycia: "Maybe...the first step for Simon and I should be a meeting, But not here. At my office. I don't think we should..."talk shop" here in Rose's dwelling. You know, I can't IMAGINE you appealing to anybody on his behalf if you didn't feel like he was worth the time and consideration. After what I've been through lately, I'm willing to look in directions I normally wouldn't entertain, so why not start with him?"

:: He smiled and refilled her drink promptly. ::

"Yay! This is exactly what Vanguard needs. I'm not saying sign your life and business away to him, just give him a chance to impress you, look inside yourself and figure out what you can offer and feel good about!"

:: Xavier appeared sitting next to them. He was a bit cheeky and seemed to REALLY enjoy the company of Alycia, which he partly understood. She was like this ball busting fabulous attorney with great hair and shoes. When he looked at her it was like watching some sexy show on primetime about hot lawyers and their personal problems. It was a trip. ::

Xavier: "So Daniel, given your power set, have you spoken to anyone who studies history or the societies of the past? I wonder what great questions you can help solve regarding this city, questions that only the city herself is still alive to answer. Which begs the question: is the city a she?"

:: He thought for a moment. ::

"You know? I honestly don't know. It's kind of above all that, but whenever I open myself up to our connection, I can't help but to sense it's a bit feminine. Or at least that is how I perceive it's energy."

Alycia: "Of course SHE is. The spirit of Gaea brings life to everyone, even beyond the shores of Themyscria."

"I've done a bit of my own research, and there are certain places I can perceive their original landscape. When they were first constructed. Sometimes I can see a building and sense every business that was there before, sometimes perceive the families. The city..she shows me what I need to know."

[thinking]

"You know I never thought about solving the city's greatest mysteries until you just said it. I've always really kind of kept my head looking forward. The city is always evolving..there's often not time to reflect, only time to move forward. Though in my days as a city planner, I did have a few 'interesting' moments of clarity."

:: Danny leaned back and sipped on his cocktail. ::

"But I mean, I'm sittin' in a room with people who can bend steel and traverse the oceans in seconds. Talking about my power seems a bit lame in comparison!"

 

[Tachyon]

Danny was being modest.

"You know? I honestly don't know. It's kind of above all that, but whenever I open myself up to our connection, I can't help but to sense it's a bit feminine. Or at least that is how I perceive it's energy."

Alycia: "Of course SHE is. The spirit of Gaea brings life to everyone, even beyond the shores of Themyscria."

"I've done a bit of my own research, and there are certain places I can perceive their original landscape. When they were first constructed. Sometimes I can see a building and sense every business that was there before, sometimes perceive the families. The city..she shows me what I need to know."

[thinking]

"You know I never thought about solving the city's greatest mysteries until you just said it. I've always really kind of kept my head looking forward. The city is always evolving..there's often not time to reflect, only time to move forward. Though in my days as a city planner, I did have a few 'interesting' moments of clarity."

:: Danny leaned back and sipped on his cocktail. ::

"But I mean, I'm sittin' in a room with people who can bend steel and traverse the oceans in seconds. Talking about my power seems a bit lame in comparison!"

Xavier raised his hand, palm out, as he shook his head.

No, no, no SIR. YOU are capable of speaking to, learning from and manipulating physically the city around you. Until meeting you, even with all I had seen, I would not have conceived of such a power. As someone who regularly goes to ruins, old cities with stories to tell and only my mind and tools to divine that story, to know that you could likely CONVERSE with that ruin and learn her stories, her secrets, her history? Sir, that is GOLD. To be able to connect with something SO CLOSELY. As someone who has been recently encouraged to slow down and put down some roots, I can certainly appreciate someone who can do that with something so valuable, so knowledgeable, so seemingly cold to the uninitiated. People say all the time, "If these walls could talk". But to YOU, they DO. That is spec-TAC-ular.

Xavier paused for a second, deep in thought, then continued.

To that end, if you make a suggestion to the city, will she follow it in perpetuity? It seems obvious, for example, that she knows who should and should not be here. Would the city consider making it inexplicably harder for anyone hostile to this place to actually get here? Not on the level of Themyscira of course, but just more difficult. That could be incredibly beneficial to detect a hostile who might even normally evade camera detection. Just a thought, but something I would have never thought remotely possible before meeting you.

The possible uses for a power such as Danny's seemed endless in his mind, depending on its limitations. In any case, this was incredibly mentally and - looking at Alycia again - PHYSICALLY stimulating. Xavier looked over, meeting eyes with Alycia with a good natured smile.

Then again, meeting an ACTUAL AMAZON probably was an impossible dream as well. Now, I cannot wait to spar with her. While getting my ass handed to me should not be a good time, the idea of being able to experience firsthand the unique fighting styles that were thought to be long lost to history is IRRESISTIBLE. There are so many things to learn about each other, I cannot wait to get started.

The double entendre in the final sentence of his comment about Alycia was subtle, classy, yet unmistakable.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas was disappointed, more than a bit angry, but nothing he would say at this point would be helpful. He left Morgan to close out the meeting and she did so, drawing a line in the sand for Cassandra. As she psychic vamp left, Morgan turned to Nicolas.

Haven't we been here before!?

I'm NOT doing this again with another member of this team. NOT AGAIN, Nicolas!

I told Cameron, that ANYONE who didn't get their shit together to focus on the crisis at hand, could get the HELL OUT, and that's what I meant!

Everyone says I'm a bitch, that I'm controlling...well....sometimes you HAVE TO BE A BITCH to get things done, and THIS shit here << Ruby and Ben>> is EXACTLY the kind of "opening" that Malice and the other queens in the inner circle would be looking for!

They already have two of ours!

I'm NOT going to allow another member on this team to give them ANOTHER avenue!

And how can she allow some old...DICK...to come between her and what she claimed to be building here?! I have made my mistakes so perhaps I cannot be one to talk, but Ma said it best, at some point we have to get past some of these reptilian instincts and start using the higher brain. Maybe I have it wrong! Maybe we ALL should be out just doing whatever comes to mind. It seems to work just fine for half the team and they seem to be a LOT less worried about it than I am.

By now Nicolas was pacing, but he turned back quickly and hugged Morgan.

Thanks. For being a real leader, for focusing on what is important, and for forgiving me when I fucked up. I am not sure what I would do if I could not count on you.

Before she could respond, Nicolas gave her a kiss on the lips, lifting her easily off the ground and holding her in the way she most enjoyed. He set her down , grasping her hand and leading her out the door.

C'mon, let's go to Ambrosia, get a bite to eat, relax. No way I am letting you stew on this all night!

 

[Orion]

From The Clocktower to Zach's Apartment

Ashley: That one's mine now. Sorrynotsorry.

She replied, when he asked about a Henley he'd left with her. He smiled warmly, because even though it was one of his favorite shirts, he'd let her keep it if she wanted it. He did recall her looking quite sexy wearing it, and she ought to have at least one 'boyfriend' shirt.

He sat on the edge of the bed as she filled an over night bag. There was some lacy thing Zach was interested in investigating, but she zipped the bag up and buttoned up her dress. She shouldered the duffle, but as Zach stood he gently took it from her.

"Please allow me."

He insisted, and they stepped out of her room. Zizi and Gabe were over by the Jumbotron.

Ash: We'll be at Zach's.

Ziz: Okay, well, be careful.

"You too, Zizi."

He said, following Ash out the door. He put his arm around her in the elevator.

Ash: Ten bucks says they stay up all night playing video games.

"Seriously.... I mean there wasn't even heavy petting or making out yet..... maybe Gabe's got some performance anxiety issues."

He got them a cab, and opened the door for her before depositing the duffle in the trunk and sliding into the backseat next to her. When they got to Nomad, he offered a helping hand to Ash, retrieved her duffle and paid the fare, bidding the cabbie a good night before shutting the door.

Ralph: Ambassador, welcome home!

"Thanks Ralph. This is Ashley, we need to add her to the approved list."

Ralph: Certainly sir. And I have your delivery.

Zach tried to remember ordering something, but Ashley claimed it as hers. Ralph brought a couple of bags to the elevator for them and up they went. He unlocked his front door and let her in to his apartment.

"Don't worry, it's all mirrored glass, so no perves with telescopes can see in-- wait-- who am I talking to? You wouldn't care."

He said with mild amusement. Ash looked around as Zach set the bags down, and then she reached for him again, and pulled him in for a kiss. He wrapped his arms around her as she made a truly wonderful statement, that they were alone at last. She asked him for directions to the shower, and he gestured off to a hall on his left. He guided her to the master bedroom, then gestured to the door of the bathroom, and she started that way.

When she stopped and looked back at him, easing her dress off, her expression made his pulse quicken. He was undressed almost before her dress hit the floor. She started up the shower and got in, and for a moment Zach just watched the water run down her body. He wanted her so bad it hurt, but he controlled himself. Stepping into the shower behind her, he blocked the majority of the water and put some body wash in his palm.

"Let me help you get your back."

He said, working the soap into a lather before he began to massage her back and shoulders. He took his time rubbing her down, running his hands over her skin slowly, down and then back up her arms, down her sides to her hips. He pulled her back against his chest so he could get her front, starting low and working his way up her abs and ribs. When he reached her breasts he lowered his lips to her neck and pressed himself against her in earnest.

"Any other hard to reach places you need me to get?"

 

[Valkyrie]

Zach's Apartment

Zach put his arm around her as they got in the elevator, and a cuurent seemed to run from him into her. It was still a new feeling for her, that someone would want to touch her, just because he was next to her. She commented on how Gabe & Zizi would most likely waste their alone time.

"Seriously....I mean there wasn't even heavy petting or making out yet...maybe Gabe's got some performance anxiety issues."

"Did I tell you he kissed her this afternoon? And him acting all weird later...doesn't add up. I still think I may have to kill him."

She just enjoyed the feel of him next t her on the cab ride to his place, and when the arrived at the building they treated Zach like a celebrity.

"Thanks Ralph. This is Ashley, we need to add her to the approved list."

She leaned in to Zach and whispered.

"And you can go ahead and remove any of your other girlfriends from that list while you're at it."

They took the elevator up to his floor, and she followed him inside. The place was impressive: all windows and clean for a guy's place.

"Don't worry, it's all mirrored glass, so no perves with telescopes can see in-- wait-- who am I talking to? You wouldn't care."

"I don't understand why you Americans have such a problem with the human body."

She shook her head, looking around.

"Though, I think we could put on quite an impressive show."

Her hands went around him as they kissed, his arms holding her against him until she pulled away, scheming in her eyes. Getting into the hot showe, it was only a few seconds before he stepped in behind her.

"Let me help you get your back."

She laughed.

"You are too kind."

The soap smelled like him, which made her toes curl with anticipation. His hands massaged her tired back and shoulders, and she could feel any remaining tension leaving her.

"Mmmmm...that feels good..."

She closed her eyes and felt him pull her back against him, his hands lathering her front. She let out a contented sigh as his hands slid over her breasts, his mouth kissing her neck, and she was able to feel his desire against her.

But of course, he was going to have to work for it a little.

"Any other hard to reach places you need me to get?"

She inclined her neck, putting her hands on top of his.

"Mmm, Zach...if you wash my hair, I'll let you do anything you want to me."

 

[Citadel]

Rose's Brownstone

:: Xavier was causing Danny to think about his capability in a way he hadn't before. He thought he did a pretty good job watching over the city, letting events unfold, only stepping in when it was CLEAR he needed to. But perhaps he COULD be doing more? He sipped his tequila. ::

"Buy a guy dinner before you shower him with all them compliments! But thanks, I guess I never thought about it like that before."

:: he thought for a moment. ::

"I think my power is more tuned to modern landscapes, I've been out in the country, away from towns and throngs of people, and I got nothing. No indication. I think it has to be a place where people are currently living, where the landscape is still evolving."

:: Xavier prodded about his ability to keep bad things out and at bay. ::

"My ability to act on behalf of the city is mysterious even to me. There is an effort of balance. The city likes characters. Even villains to a certain degree. Sometimes violence brings about positive change, sends the city in a direction that's positive. Think about how different this city has been over the years and where it's going. It needs to get roughed up, destroyed, reimagined and rebuilt to thrive."

"But the city's pain is often my pain. And over the years, I've nearly died because of my connection. The great BLACKOUT a few years ago...and other events, only now meeting you people that I'm beginning to put the pieces together on."

"The city doesn't outright ban people. But on my level, I can definitely make things harder, warp the city around them, make them get lost, shield places of power or things not to be seen by the naked eye..."

:: pausing ::

"It was how I stopped Scion from escaping the grounds of the orphanage."

:: smirking ::

"But there are good aspects to that. This city has several cities within itself, some far beneath the ground, in the subways, the sewers. Some hidden in plain sight. And I get to know all those places, know those colorful characters and the places they call home."

:: He laughed. ::

"And the places they get drunk and get into trouble."

:: Danny thought of Magnus Bane and club Pandemonium where he earned his "wings" as a young adult as a gogo boy. ::

"Dang. Now I'm getting tipsy and the thumpa thumpa of a certain nightlife hotspot is calling my name. Anybody down to go dancing?"

 

[Verdict]

Central Park

The storm clouds had cleared while they were at dinner, and now they walked in Central Park under clear skies and a full moon. She complimented him, which brought a smile to his lips.

"Flattery will get you everywhere."

He said, as they strolled.

Sharon: I wanted to come here with you because I spend a lot of time in the park.

"I know what you mean, I like to run here in the mornings."

Sharon: I come here to think, meditate, and communicate. One of the aspects of my power is telepathic communication, and control over all species of birds. This gives me a whole other level of awareness and perception around the city.

As he listened, he realized that he liked the sound of her voice. It brought to mind the old cliche, 'music to the ears'. Really he thought that her tone did have some kind of melody to it. He hoped they were going to take a very long walk, and that she kept talking.

"That's pretty amazing, how does it work?"

He asked, then Sharon elaborated on her unique connection with the avian species, and mentioned her gryfalcons. Darren remembered seeing them earlier at the Sanctuary, and he hoped one day she'd introduce him to them, preferably as an ally and not a potential enemy.

Sharon: Even though I'll be remaining in the city, I won't be "the vengeful Silver Swan" ALL of the time. It would be nice...to have some more...HUMAN company. Perhaps you could help me with that?

Darren smiled as they stopped walking, and Sharon faced him. He remembered their kiss from earlier, the one that had ended far too soon. He gazed at her for a moment, and then decided that he wasn't going to answer her question with words. He leaned in, reaching a hand up to her jawline, bringing their lips together, but this time, he didn't pull away.

 

[Rose]

The Sanctuary- Rose's brownstone

He placed his hand on Sable smoothly and slowly. She was originally apprehensive, but his touch was practised with animals and he had a steadiness that belied someone who can move so quickly and chaotically. he started for the door at a NORMAL pace, then turned once more.

If it is OK with you, I would like to visit regularly. I think that maybe the kids can help me to savor things a bit more. Besides, I am a classically trained Archaeologist, Paleontogologist and Sociologist. Maybe we can teach each other a few things. Thanks again for a great occasion.

<< Rose tilted her head, and smiled with approval. So much for that wicked, amoral woman HALEIGH'S assessment of these children being THROW AWAY.>>

That would be just fine with me, Xavier. We should always be open to learn from the most unexpected sources. Even the weak and the vulnerable have stories to tell. They have hearts, minds, dreams...and creative energy.

Your ally, Vivica Lennox? she's been working with one of my children in particular, Julian, a mutant with emerging telekinetic abilities. She's been a wonder to him, helping him to refine his abilities through the joy and focus of art!

That horrible, marauding woman, Black Widow...she considers my children to be useless, throw away, who will not have anything to offer society. Her soul is as cold and warped as the other woman (Cobra) who trespassed here last week, and they are both indications of an overall threat that is apparently looming over me and my children, one I will not HESITATE meet head on.

While I have you here, I want to be clear with you about something, and I want you to REMIND Oracle as well.

That woman, Black Widow? She's tied to Zach Armani. He is no longer welcomed here, and if SHE EVER shows up here again....OR if I ever see her anywhere else? I will FINISH my attempt to tear her soul from her body...

<< Xavier noticed Rose countenance grow dark for a brief moment. >

...And I will take GREAT PLEASURE in doing so!

<< Xavier sees that DARK visage, and hears the haunting resonance in Rose's voice!>>

<< Sable, who was in Rose's arms, looked up at her mommy, and vocalized with concern. Rose closed her eyes tightly for a moment, but then returned to her normal state, and returned her gaze to Xavier.>>

My children suffered so much because of her....and those are the ones who SURVIVED. Over three dozen others are DEAD because of her.

She does not deserve salvation...she deserves PUNISHMENT.

But first thing's first.

The security and defense systems designed by Gabriel Jerome are being installed...and tomorrow morning they will be online.

For now, let us enjoy this evening of relative peace and tranquility, under the comforting glow of the moon.

<< Xavier soon turns to leave the kitchen, and in a small, but clear moment of indication that he'd HEARD her, and was now taking heed, he exited the kitchen at a NORMAL speed and pace.>>

<< Once he rejoined the others, Rose and Sable slip away, taking a secret passage from the kitchen into the orphanage house, to look in on the children, check the houses, and make sure everything was in order.>>

<< Steel's men were keeping watch, and the perimeter around the Sanctuary was secure. There were men stationed around the Orphanage house as well.>>

<< One bed was still empty, Jake O'Rielly's, but he would be home soon.>>

Well Sable, everything seems to be in order. Let's return to the others.

<< and soon, they emerge from yet another secret passage back into Rose's brownstone, now making her way down the hall and toward the Parlor, where Danny, Rae, Simon, Alycia, and Xavier were all socializing, she smiled as she drew near.>>

"But there are good aspects to that. This city has several cities within itself, some far beneath the ground, in the subways, the sewers. Some hidden in plain sight. And I get to know all those places, know those colorful characters and the places they call home."

:: He laughed. ::

"And the places they get drunk and get into trouble."

:: Danny thought of Magnus Bane and club Pandemonium where he earned his "wings" as a young adult as a gogo boy. ::

"Dang. Now I'm getting tipsy and the thumpa thumpa of a certain nightlife hotspot is calling my name. Anybody down to go dancing?"

There'll be plenty of time for that, my darling Danny.

<< Rose said as she reaches him, Xavier, and Alycia. >>

I've looked in on the children, and everything is in order. I'm going to show Alycia, Xavier, and Simon their rooms. Would you be kind enough to put the block on "night mode," Danny? This way Ramsey can continue his work, and be insulated from any possible intruders.

We'll have breakfast in the morning before you all begin your day.

<< And with that, Rose leads her new guests, to show them to their rooms on another floor of the brownstone, while Rae and Danny soon return to theirs..>>

 

[Seer]

And so

<< The stress and strife of the day, was calmed and soothed by the spectral glow of the beautiful moon, and under it's watchful eye, hearts and minds were drawn to one another to find comfort while the moonlight held the darkness of recent events at bay.>>

<< FLASH!>>

<< A montage: Zach and Ashley. Morgan and Nicolas. Gabe and Zizi. Alek and Ava. Blaze and Richard. Delilah and Gavin. Alycia and Xavier....and finally...Darren and Sharon.>>

<< Sharon drapes her arms over Darren's shoulders, and he pulls her in close. One last view of Darren Hudson, and Sharon Kelly, who share a tender embrace, and a kiss that neither is willing to let end before it runs its proper course. >>

<< As everyone in Rose's brownstone begins to settle in for the night, Rose finally retires to her master bedroom, setting Sable on the bed.>>

<< She moves by a window, and takes one last look at the moon, it's glow seems to mirror that of her crystal ball in her parlor and the devil card, which remains apart from her charmed tarot deck, also glows.>>

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

<< The moon also watches those with hearts and minds not so soothed and settled, namely Ruby and Bishop. Where do each of them go from here? Will Ruby bad, and costly choice where Gorgon is concerned? Will Bishop be doomed to failure once more as he tries to salvage his relationship with Delilah?>>

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

<< At the Hellfire Club, Scion returns to her quarters in the White Wing of the Hellfire Mansion not realizing what she has set in motion regarding Rose, but others, including Zach Armani, will come to see it first hand tomorrow.>>

<< For now, a calm night is capped with a sound sleep.>>

<< Tomorrow begins a new day, with new challenges....and dangers.>>