Rose of Destruction II

[Rampage]

“You want to know what happened at St. Patrick’s?”

:: She looked down at her folded hands and then looked up defiantly. ::

*defiant*: “We KISSED, okay? Are you HAPPY now?!”

:: Cass unfolded her hands and crossed her arms, sitting back in the chair. She wasn’t going to apologize for kissing him; she didn’t even REGRET it. ::

“Don’t expect an apology from me, because you’re not going to get one. I’m not the first person to kiss their ex, and I certainly won’t be the last.”

Nicolas reflexively pushed Morgan a bit farther behind him, and she was not going easily. He was hoping that being calm would cut through the attitudes; he was mistaken. But he wanted to hear her out.

“So there you have it. We exchanged a few kisses. It didn’t mean anything, though. He made it CLEAR where he stood.”

:: She gritted her teeth. ::

“Then I got the message that you all were off on some mission without me.”

:: She looked at Morgan. ::

“YOU weren’t here for this…”

:: She then looked at Nicolas. ::

“…but YOU were. What did I say when I had discovered that you all KNEW about my kidnapping by the Purifiers and that NOBODY had clued ME in?! I said that I felt left out and that I didn’t want it to happen ever again!”

:: Cass could still feel the hurt she had felt after learning that everybody had known about her situation and they CHOSE not to tell her. ::

“So when I heard from Cameron about the Six and Persephone, I thought that everybody left me out YET again. So I WILL apologize for overreacting, but I was HURT. If we’re broken, but we still want to present a united front, then that means we are ALL in it together. It didn’t matter if I wasn’t needed; I should’ve been there for the SOLE purpose of showing Persephone that we are still united.”

Well. I am glad that you apologized for overreacting THAT time. I will overlook your overreaction at the hospital when I entered the room. But this...Ben is it? I find him intriguing. He means nothing, correct? Out of your OWN mouth? So, if I meet him in battle and kill him...

Nicolas projects an image of Ben, plucked straight from Cassandra's mind from when she first lied about things. This 'Ben" projection meets Nicolas, in all his glory of battle, and dies hideously, his head removed from his shoulders by Nicolas' axe, the blood from his severed stump seeming to splash on Cassandra in her mind's eye. The shock from Cassandra was obvious and her concern was easily seen on her face.

Then that means nothing? Or are you lying to us, even now, and you have plans to try to save him? Plans that could mean the death of someone in the Six or the Birds of Prey because of your inattention to the plans we are making here?

Nicolas knew the answer, he simply wanted Cass to be honest with them. And he was done coddling her. He tried the nice route already.

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon – The War Room II




:: Cass could practically SEE the smoke coming out of Morgan’s ears when she mentioned kissing Ben. It only confirmed that it was a good thing she didn’t mention how deep her feelings for Ben went. ::

Well. I am glad that you apologized for overreacting THAT time. I will overlook your overreaction at the hospital when I entered the room. But this...Ben is it? I find him intriguing. He means nothing, correct? Out of your OWN mouth? So, if I meet him in battle and kill him...

“That’s not what I—“

:: Cass broke off as she watched Nicolas take an image of Ben and projected him in the middle of the War Room where Nicolas then proceeded to ‘kill’ him in the most brutal way. Cass’ lips started to quiver and her expression went from complete shock to one of concern to absolute RAGE. ::

Then that means nothing? Or are you lying to us, even now, and you have plans to try to save him? Plans that could mean the death of someone in the Six or the Birds of Prey because of your inattention to the plans we are making here?

:: Cass stood up so fast that she knocked the chair she was sitting in to the floor. Her ice-blue eyes SMOLDERED with rage. In her past, she had been abused and subjected to all kinds of torture – mental, physical, emotional, and psychological – by all kinds of MEN. She NEVER would’ve thought that a man that she LOVED and TRUSTED, as well as considered FAMILY would inflict this kind of pain, this kind of MENTAL ANGUISH upon her. She walked right up to Nicolas and SLAPPED him across the face! ::

*anger*: “DON’T YOU EVER DO THAT TO ME AGAIN, DO YOU HEAR?! YOU KNOW WHAT I WENT THROUGH, WHAT I’VE BEEN SUBJECTED TO!! HOW DARE YOU, NICOLAS, HOW DARE YOU!!!”

:: Cass stood there, trembling with rage. What Nicolas just did…was UNACCEPTABLE. What was even more horrible was that she no longer trusted him; she no longer felt safe with him. Tears of anger and grief started to stream down her face. ::

*quiet, low voice*: “FINE. I still love him. Is THAT what you want to hear? I. Love. HIM.”

:: She robotically made her way back to her chair, bending down to pick it up and setting it upright before taking her seat. ::

“Now, if this ‘meeting’ is over, I think it would be best if I found someplace else to sleep for the night.”

:: Cass didn’t know what her future looked like. She didn’t WANT to leave the Six, but with the way things were going now…it looked as if she wouldn’t have a choice. ::

 

[Spellbinder]

The Parthenon- War Room II

“You want to know what happened at St. Patrick’s?”

:: She looked down at her folded hands and then looked up defiantly. ::

*defiant*: “We KISSED, okay? Are you HAPPY now?!”

:: Cass unfolded her hands and crossed her arms, sitting back in the chair. She wasn’t going to apologize for kissing him; she didn’t even REGRET it. ::

<< Spellbinder wanted to slap Ruby across the room! What was she thinking!?>>

Nicolas reflexively pushed Morgan a bit farther behind him, and she was not going easily. He was hoping that being calm would cut through the attitudes; he was mistaken. But he wanted to hear her out.

<< Nicolas took a more heavy handed approach. Ruby needed to understand this wasn't a game, and this was the WRONG TIME for her to start playing cat and mouse with an old flame, who was NOW apart of the Inner Circle!>>

<< Nicolas called her out, and questioned her on a very personal level, and left no room for hiding, or doubt.>>

<< Morgan watched the psionic projection, and then looked upon Cass.>>

:: Cass stood up so fast that she knocked the chair she was sitting in to the floor. Her ice-blue eyes SMOLDERED with rage. In her past, she had been abused and subjected to all kinds of torture – mental, physical, emotional, and psychological – by all kinds of MEN. She NEVER would’ve thought that a man that she LOVED and TRUSTED, as well as considered FAMILY would inflict this kind of pain, this kind of MENTAL ANGUISH upon her. She walked right up to Nicolas and SLAPPED him across the face! ::

*anger*: “DON’T YOU EVER DO THAT TO ME AGAIN, DO YOU HEAR?! YOU KNOW WHAT I WENT THROUGH, WHAT I’VE BEEN SUBJECTED TO!! HOW DARE YOU, NICOLAS, HOW DARE YOU!!!”

:: Cass stood there, trembling with rage. What Nicolas just did…was UNACCEPTABLE. What was even more horrible was that she no longer trusted him; she no longer felt safe with him. Tears of anger and grief started to stream down her face. ::

<< By now, Morgan had moved BACK in front of Nicolas. She'd let him have the driver's seat long enough to make a point, and the truth HURTS, as Ruby knew all too well.>>

Nicolas doesn't want to hurt you. But you left us little choice in how to get your ATTENTION, Ruby.

You're playing a dangerous game, at the WORST time, and your ATTITUDE is not helping matters. LIVES ARE AT STAKE, and BEN is apart of the source of that DANGER. Whatever your PERSONAL history with him is? It's in the PAST now, while the DANGER he poses, and is APART OF? THAT'S PRESENT!

Your so called BEST FRIEND was just in a terrible confrontation with BEN'S ALLY. Doesn't that REGISTER with you!?

You're a member of THIS group now, and your life, your well being is tied to ours, and vice versa. You CAN'T endanger yourself OR US for HIM. PERIOD.

*quiet, low voice*: “FINE. I still love him. Is THAT what you want to hear? I. Love. HIM.”

Well, that's a problem,

We've been here before, Ruby. Someone on this team LOVING someone who was a DANGER to herself, AND to us...and our lives were BLOWN APART because of it.

I'm NOT letting that happen again.

You need to tell us where your priorities are, where your loyalties are.

:: She robotically made her way back to her chair, bending down to pick it up and setting it upright before taking her seat. ::

“Now, if this ‘meeting’ is over, I think it would be best if I found someplace else to sleep for the night.”

You still haven't answered my question, Cass.

And you're making this way harder than it has to be. Nobody is casting you out.

YET.

You're angry with Nicolas, and you'll be away from him soon enough, but It's safer for you to remain HERE.

Do you REALLY think that Ben won't hesitate to obey his queen & do something TERRIBLE to you if given the chance!?

 

[Rampage]

The slap was predictable and he went with it. This was no battle and there was nothing to be gained by flexing his muscle. So she did it and lectured Nicolas about torturing her and admitted that she loved Ben.

Nicolas took no joy in bringing pain to her, but he hoped that it would jar her enough to admit the truth to them, and it did.

Morgan stepped forward and asserted her leadership, having been given time to calm herself. She was doing a great job trying to lay things out to Cassandra.

You're angry with Nicolas, and you'll be away from him soon enough, but It's safer for you to remain HERE.

Do you REALLY think that Ben won't hesitate to obey his queen & do something TERRIBLE to you if given the chance!?

Nicolas stepped back forward, his face grimly set. How voice was tinged with sadness.

Cassandra. I did not enjoy that you were hurt just now. But if you are angry with me, even hate me, but do what is necessary to be SAFE, then I can live with that. What I do NOT want is for you to chase after a man who has betrayed you once, has warned you that he has targeted you again in league with the Hellfire Club, and who needs no saving because he joined freely. You may love him but how has he loved you? Not MADE LOVE to you, LOVED YOU?

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon – The War Room II

Nicolas doesn't want to hurt you. But you left us little choice in how to get your ATTENTION, Ruby.

You're playing a dangerous game, at the WORST time, and your ATTITUDE is not helping matters. LIVES ARE AT STAKE, and BEN is apart of the source of that DANGER. Whatever your PERSONAL history with him is? It's in the PAST now, while the DANGER he poses, and is APART OF? THAT'S PRESENT!

Your so called BEST FRIEND was just in a terrible confrontation with BEN'S ALLY. Doesn't that REGISTER with you!?

:: THIS again?! REALLY? Blah, blah, blah, why the hell were you kissing a member of the Hellfire Club when your best friend was in a confrontation, blah, blah, blah. Sorry that she didn’t have the power of clairvoyance to discern when Blaze was in trouble or not. ::

“YES, Morgan, it DOES register with me! And, like I already said, I would’ve BEEN there if somebody had let me in on it.”

Morgan: “You're a member of THIS group now, and your life, your well being is tied to ours, and vice versa. You CAN'T endanger yourself OR US for HIM. PERIOD.”

:: Well, that was all good for Miss Victoria to say, but love makes things a lot more complicated. Cass said that she still loved Ben. ::

Well, that's a problem,

We've been here before, Ruby. Someone on this team LOVING someone who was a DANGER to us...and our lives were BLOWN APART because of it.

I'm NOT letting that happen again.

You need to tell us where your priorities are, where your loyalties are.

“The heart wants what the heart wants, Morgan.”

:: Cass mentioned that if this meeting was finished, she would make arrangements to sleep elsewhere for the night. ::

You still haven't answered my question, Cass.

And you're making this way harder than it has to be. Nobody is casting you out.

You're angry with Nicolas, and you'll be away from him soon enough, but It's safer for you to remain HERE.

Do you REALLY think that Ben won't hesitate to obey his queen & do something TERRIBLE to you if given the chance!?

:: Cass sighed in frustration. ::

“Do you REALLY want the HONEST truth? MY loyalties lie with the Six. As for Ben, well, I don’t know what I’ll do if I just happen to run into him on the street somewhere. I’d like to think that I would be able to attack him and move on but somehow…I don’t think so. I really feel like punching him in the face a couple of times right now but who knows how I’d feel three, four, days from now? I can’t predict what I will or won’t do in the future. I’d like to think that I’d be strong, but the truth is that I LOVE him. There are literally NO guarantees.”

“I didn’t say anything about leaving the team. I just thought it might be best if I slept elsewhere tonight, create some space between me and the team.”

:: Cass didn’t mention that she felt like she was suffocating in the building. ::

“I’m not as naïve as you all think I am. Ben would TOTALLY obey his queen and do something terrible to me if she requires it of him. I’m not stupid.”

:: Cass knew that Ben was DESPERATE for love AND approval. It all stemmed from his prick of a father, who didn’t give a DAMN about him. Cass didn’t understand why Ben needed to prove himself to his father, which he revealed to her when he attacked her. If she ever met the man…she would fucking KILL him for screwing with his son’s mind. ::

What I do NOT want is for you to chase after a man who has betrayed you once, has warned you that he has targeted you again in league with the Hellfire Club, and who needs no saving because he joined freely. You may love him but how has he loved you? Not MADE LOVE to you, LOVED YOU?

:: It was as if she had been punched in the gut. A wounded look appeared on her face and her eyes filled with tears. ::

*softly*: “Fuck you.”

:: Cass turned and walked to the door, placing her hand on the doorjamb. ::

“This meeting is OVER. I don’t want to be here anymore.”

 

[Oracle]

The Sanctuary to the Clocktower

Zizi maintained emphatically that she could hold her liquor, but Gabe was not fooled.

"Uh huh. And Darth Vader isn't Luke's father. [while chuckling] Lets go R2. Cheesecake awaits."

She pointed at him and gave a little victorious laugh.

"That makes you C3PO in this scenario, and I'm okay with that. Everyone knows R2's the real brains behind the operation."

They said their goodbyes to Rose, and Gabe helped her get herself & her chair into the car. The evening had turned out alright in the end, and she enjoyed the sleepy buzz she had going on. Gabe asked her if she was good, and she just nodded. She was a little ashamed to admit that it felt good to have him concerned about her.

They picked up dessert and headed back to the Clocktower. Gabe held the door for her, then stopped, leaning down to her.

"Uhh...you think He-Man and She-ra are battling horizontally? I don't wanna loose what good dinner I just had."

She held up her hands as if to say, Who knows?

"I can't make any promises, so prepare yourself to make a hasty retreat."

 

[Valkyrie]

The Clocktower

Ashley was thouroughly relaxed, cuddled up on the couch next to Zach, when she heard the door open and the sound of wheels on the hardwood floor. She rolled onto Zach's chest so she was facing him.

"Zizi's home."

But then, footsteps.

What could only be described as a dirty smile crept over her face as she looked at Zach.

"And she's not alone."

She put her hands on his shoulders.

"You know, I could really use a shower. What do you say we go to your place?"

She smirked at him, then leaned close to whisper to him.

"I mean, I'd hate for Gabe to get all intimidated at the way you make me scream. He might never fuck her then."

She pulled back and with a sultry smile, reached down and pulled the blanket around her, tucking it under her arms, before standing up to face the new arrivals.

"How was dinner? We're just gonna get out of your hair."

She picked up her dress from the floor and took Zach's hand, leading him into her room.

 

[Talisman]

The Hellfire Club - Catacombs - Laboratory

Scion: "Sounds like we have ourselves an agreement."

"Indeed we do."

< She watched as Haleigh was about to rise from her seat, but something came over Talisman. Something about this didn't seem finished. There was something about Scion. It was like knowing who she came from was causing The Black Queen to see her in a different light. To interact with her, to see the subtle way she was like her parents, even despite not being raised by them, it was intriguing. >

< Talisman required a bit more time with The White Princess. >

< As Haleigh stood, Talisman motioned for her to be seated once more. >

"Please."

< Sitting back down, Talisman draped the bottom of her dress over the side of her leg as she crossed them at the knee, delicately dangling them in the air as she spoke. >

"Let me give you some advice, Scion."

< Talisman leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms - her cobalt blue eyes reflective and almost pensive as she spoke, but only for a moment. >

"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."

[pausing]

"I had barely given birth to my daughter when I killed her. I do not know exactly how long she lived for on my timeline. I had passed out from the pain and stress of giving birth after a fight for my life. One of several I had endured in the months leading up to her birth. I had sacrificed everything to bring her into this world. Once I had left The Hellfire Club, Diana placed a bounty on my head."

< She was sharing with Haleigh a DEEPLY personal time in her life. One of great pain and strife, but none of that showed on her face. Not even a hint of regret, no traces of getting lost in the memory as she spoke. >

"I don't remember feeling love when I looked into my daughter's eyes. I remember feeling digsust. At what I had done. Here there was this pure and unadulterated sample of human life right before my eyes. Barely older than a zygote. I did not think to hold her. Have her feed from my breasts. I saw her in terms of value, almost immediately. I knew that if her own mother could look at her and be tempted, then it was only a matter of time before Christopher, Helena, Adam and Diana did the same thing."

< She cleared her throat for a quick second, before continuing in her somewhat hypnotic, even and wispy alto tone, that was somehow sultry even in with it's cerebral lilt. >

"That may not make me a good person. But it certainly makes me honest. I could have attempted to raise her. Perhaps she would have turned out pleasant enough. But at what cost to her? And myself for that matter."

< Flatly. >

"I made a mistake, and it was too late, but I had no choice but to correct it."

< Somewhat softly, she took a sip of her hemlock. >

"I learned that killing her was the compassionate thing to do."

< While Talisman may have appeared obtuse or enigmatic to those around her, she was an incredibly bright woman who was often able to blindside those around her with her acumen and insight. Her cold and somewhat "inhuman" demeanor made her able to see things fairly subjectively and able to argue for points not often looked at. It was always what made her an incredibly good scientist. She did not trust Talisman and though they had just made an alliance, it was light at best. It kept them both somewhat at a distance from each other, and it only offered the simplest of diplomacies to operate. But it was all Talisman could officially offer in a political situation such as this one. Still, Haleigh was Malice's daughter, and it was clear that while it may have appeared that Diana was using a bit too much of her energy looking after and over Haleigh's every step, Scion's presence here had a positive influence on Diana's frame of mind. >

< There were many within the walls of Hellfire that would be poised and ready to take down Scion should they get the word, or should they simply feel ignored for too long. But there would a short list of people who would be remembered for helping Scion. And should The White Queen lose Scion, be it by her own hand or the hand of The Six, Talisman needed to ensure that she didn't end up on the naughty list. >

< More importantly, Talisman was attempting to highlight to Scion that everything she had gone through up until this point was just the tip of the iceberg. It would only get harder, the decisions would be more painful. Every second she spent trying to navigate this situation from the lens she was currently looking through would only cost her time and more pain. Talisman was familiar with this pain. It was something she could use to potentially push Haleigh in a new direction, or at the very least, give her something to think about. >

"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."

"If above all logic and understanding, they are able to pull one over on Malice. Circumvent her with pathways she has no control over..."

< Talisman's gaze met Haleigh's. As a magick user, she knew that Haleigh's best option at surviving this and potentially getting out of here alive was in the hands of The Sorceress Supreme, who's return to Earth was felt by many high powered magick users all over the world. The power that was wildly up for grabs on Earth in her absence was starting to fade. The only thing that had remained to be seen was whether or not Morgan would accept the idea that she was blood related to Haleigh, and decide that it was something she could live with. Every indicator in history thus far had shown The Inner Circle that she wasn't. But her return was curiously timed. She did not return when The Purifiers attacked, when two of her own were in grave danger. >

"They will burn, the clock will be reset, and Diana will seek to claim you once again, with bloody vengeance."

"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."

"You have come this far, Haleigh. You've done the hard part. You watched as their hearts collectively broke over you. You've vexed them just to the point of appearing as if you are loyal to Diana. You poke and prod them, but you let them live. Even Persephone. She lets them live. So much of the brunt she's taken for you, and she's still failed to procure a kill shot. There is a part of you still holding on."

< She rose to her feet, pacing back and forth, her hands moving succintly and forcefully, almost like a politician giving an enthralling speech, her gaze darting back and forth, looking at the ceiling, the ground, the equipment around her, lost in thought as she spoke. >

"I cannot fault you for that, but I can offer a solution. Their suffering will be eternal whether or not you live or die, and deep down, you know that. So why not remove them from the equation? Why not ensure that you don't hurt them any further? Or ensure that The Inner Circle can't hurt them? What if, the most compassionate thing you could do, would be to take their collective heads and shove them deep beneath the water."

< There was a defeaning silence as Talisman turned her head, looking at Scion seriously. >

"..not letting go until the flailing stops, until their pain and suffering stops. Completely."

< Dr. Shaw sat down her glass of hemlock down on the medical tray as she turned to face Haleigh once more. >

"It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change."

< She stood, her feet just a few inches apart from one another thanks to her form fitting dress. >

"So lean into the change. Embrace it."

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

"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."

< In an instant, Talisman shimmered out of the area, leaving Haleigh alone in the lab to reflect on The Black Queen's words. >

 

[Mockingbird]

Meanwhile, Undercover of Night

:: It was late in the evening but Kristin was still working. Not on her many charitable organization and social obligations. Now, she was doing work she hadn't had to do on this level in quite some time. Now, she was punching the clock under Diana's pay. She sat in the very back of her limo as it drove down I-95 on it's way from Connecticut to New York City. A man in a suit sat across from her as the bluetooth in her ear was alive an active, fielding many calls from her vast connections. ::

:: Since the death of William Stryker, the house had been thrown into complete chaos. WilPharma may have been dubious, but they had managed to get in bed with a number of politicians in the capitol, not just Stryker, and those who had made backdoor deals and secret Super PACs were now beginning to sweat. Kristin was reaching out to her connections in DC to get a sense of the pulse of things in order to alert Diana to anything that might garner her the slightest bit of scrutiny. She was a Daughter of The American Revolution. Her father had been a former Secretary of Defense. She had served on a number of exploratory committees and been held in high regard as a political strategist to the last three presidents. Her husband was a decorated war veteran and general from the south who had served as both congressman and governer. Kristin Pratt had connections in the world that most simply didn't have, and she wielded them as she saw fit, as they served her and her purposes. ::

:: But for now, she was playing the role of wife and mother with her husband, Thorn Pratt ::

"Oh you little lothario. You always get so huffy and puffy whenever I am going to be late."

Thorn Pratt: "Can you blame me? The weather is getting hot over here in Connecticut and I don't have my little mint julep!"

"I hate when you call me that."

Thorn: "I know. That's why I call you that. Who are you meeting with anyway?"

"Lauren Danvers."

Thorn: "The journalist?"

:: Kristin sipped on Champagne with a valium kicker as she nodded, leaning back in her seat as the freeway passed by her quickly and the landscape of New York City began to appear in the distance. ::

"Yes. She's attempting to run a story about Simon's...endeavour in the city. I intend to make sure that story of that story never sees the light of day."

Thorn: "Are you sure it's really that serious, Kris? Doesn't this just seem like on of Simon's schemes? Why don't we leave it alone? I'm sure he'll get bored and desperate when he realizes just exactly how broke he is, and he'll stop all this nonsense. I know my boy."

"I know my boy, too, Thorn. Which is why I am going. If there is one thing Simon likes more than trouble, it's embarrassing his family. Mid term elections are coming up, and the last thing we need, especially now that Stryker is dead, is some kind of..dark light shed onto our family..."

:: She looked out of the window as she spoke, watching the cars zoom by. ::

Thorn: "I'm the Governer of Connecticut, Kris. Not you. You shouldn't have to worry about all of this."

"I HAVE to worry about this if we are going to secure that cabinet position you want so badly."

Thorn: [laughing] "My red right hand. Look, I'll have Alma prepare you a plate and leave it in the microwave. If I know my wife, I know she hasn't eaten all day, and she's in that particularly dangerous Chardonnay haze. Wake me up when you get home. Lemme know how it goes and what I need to do."

"Sounds good to me."

Thorn: "Now go get 'em. And Kris?"

"Yes, Thorn?"

Thorn: "I love ya, ya hear? More than a fat kid loves cake, and a white new englander college student loves cocaine."

"Over two decades of marriage and I'll never understand why you became a politician instead of a poet."

Thorn: "Ah that's easy. Girls like pretty words, but they like it better when boys blow stuff up."

:: Kristin laugh. ::

"I'll see you in a few hours."

:: She pressend the end button on her phone. ::

:: For a few seconds, there was only silence as she stared at the member of her private security detail that got to sit in the limo with her until her phone rang again. ::

"This is Kristin Pratt."

Voice: "So far Congresswoman Elliot is leading the charge in internal investigations. She's got nothing, but we know that hasn't stopped her in the past."

"This is the woman who tried to halt Stryker's appointment after Sharon Kelly's death right?"

Voice: "It is."

"She's not going to stop, and she'll likely have the endorsement of Alycia Barnett. What we need to do now is figure out who left in the house has the biggest stench of WilPharma on them. Stryker could have taken a lot of heat, but he's dead, so the people are going to look for a live specimen to lynch. We need to choose that specimen before Candice Elliot or Alycia Barnett sink their teeth into this."

Voice: "I have a short list I can send over to you."

"Please do."

:: Hanging up the phone once again, soon she became surrounded by the once distant landscape of New York. As the skyscrapers past her line of sight she soon found herself at the headquarters of ABN - The American Broadcasting Network, which housed the studios to "Blindside with Lauren Danvers" - Studio 16. As her driver walked towards the end of the car and opened the door, Kristin delicately extended her hand and was lifted from the car. Although it was late in the evening, and there was neary a threat of paparazzi, she still went in through the backdoor, entered an elevator and found herself on Lauren's floor, moving through her office before finding the reception desk which was empty. A member of staff saw her and gasped, almost as if they hadn't expect her for a moment. ::

Staff: "Oh Mrs. Pratt. I'm so sorry. I think Lauren is in her office. Please let me take you to her!"

:: The nervous staff member led her through the many cubicles the decorated the floor of Lauren's offices. Despite the late hour, there were many people still working. Lauren didn't usually film until late in the evening, and even though her show had wrapped for the evening, it appeared to be business as usual. Soon she found herself at an office with glass walls as the staff member knocked and opened the glass door. ::

Staff: "Miss Danvers. Kristin Pratt is here to see you."

:: Her bright blue eyes met the dark espresso pupils of Lauren Danvers. ::

Lauren: "Thank you, Nancy. Now..go home! Seriously you need some sleep."

:: The staff member laughed and shook her head as she left, leaving the two of them alone. Immediately, Kristin took advantage of the wet bar that Lauren's offices had, beginning to mix a batch of martinis for the both of them. ::

"I know martinis aren't everybody's speed. But indulge an old woman."

:: In record time, Kristin had produced a damn good martini for the both of them, setting one down on Lauren's desk as she took her seat in the plush chair in front, crossing her legs at the knee and taking a deep sip. ::

"Lauren Danvers, it's a pleasure to finally meet you."

 

[Chimera]

New York City - Lauren's Offices

:: Her afternoon with Simon and Danny had been memorable and uplifting. But as soon as she slept off the drinks, went to the gym and headed into work, all of that faded away and she threw herself head first into the day's headlines. News was a twenty four hour cycle and she had one hour every night to choose the stories that she saw fit to air. She had made a grand stand against William Stryker and her cronies and she had been punished for it, but her verbal takedown had gone viral and suddenly, producers and those at the network were looking for more. It was the perfect storm for Lauren. She was dedicated to the truth and exposing all the secrets the government and those in bed with the government were hiding but she had to make sure she didn't sell herself out, didn't jump on the most scandalous storyline to make a name for herself. There were those who already thought she had done that with her first book and her connection to the trial of Viktor Klein. Every public figure faced a large amount of scrutiny and Lauren was no different. Now she was trying to hold onto herself, and not get lost in the limelight. ::

:: That night, her show had been a success. Her unique connections in the city had alerted her to an allocation of funds that Cassadine Enterprises had made. Though no formal announcement had been made, it was clear that Cassadine was severing their ties with Cameron King, and the timing was rather volitale. Had it been The Zenith Group distancing themselves from an already murky entity like Cassadine? Or was Cassadine trying to get ahead of the headlines and distance themselves from Zenith. Was Zenith or Cassadine in bed with Stryker and WilPharma? The people wanted to know and the move on Cassadine was like pouring gasoline on a fire. She needed a source. Gabriel Jerome was the name she came up with. Running him through her fact checkers and it came out that Jerome was in league with Ava and there was speculation of a romantic relationship at one point. Which just made the fact that Simon Pratt had stepped down from his position at Zenith all the more peculiar. ::

"Simon."

:: She wrote at her computer, trying to find the right words to sort all of this out. Simon Pratt steps down. Ava Cassadine distances herself from The Zenith Group, a business entity with their hands in a number of very lucrative, very POWERFUL industries. To the nascent eye it would seem non consequential, but to somebody like Lauren, she knew there was something deeper than what was on the surface and she intended to get to the bottom of it. ::

:: Simon had been bloodied and bruised when she saw him, and knowing what she did of The Six and the world that existed just beyond the mortal gaze, she knew there was more to the story, she just had to figure out a way to present this story without implicating the women she respected - mainly Alycia Barnett and Sharon Kelly. Though the world believed Sharon to be dead, Lauren knew better, but Alycia was leading a charge against Stryker, and her own personal connection to Cameron King just made things even more scandalous. Politics was at a fever pitch in New York City, and as usual it landed on Lauren Danvers to figure it all out. ::

:: It was near the end of her show when she was alerted that Kristin Pratt had requested a private meeting with her, at such an hour. It was peculiar. A woman of such power and intrigue contacting her. But it spoke to Lauren's own career as a journalist. Sometimes she forgot she wasn't an on the beat reporter for Channel Six News anymore. She was a power player, a woman who could make or break people in this nation, and she had a feeling that her connection to Simon and her desire to tell his story was something that about to be threatened. ::

:: But still, she had more important things to worry about. The truth. So lost in her notes, that she almost didn't hear the knock on the front door of her office. ::

Staff: "Miss Danvers. Kristin Pratt is here to see you."

:: Lauren looked up as her eyes met her staff member and then a very put together Kristin Pratt. She was the epitome of the kind of class and style that money could buy you and the pedigree to back it up. In short, she was a somewhat intimidating woman. But Lauren had spent three years on Capitol Hill. She had exposed crooked politicians and uncovered scandal, often putting her life in jeopardy to get the story. Every politician and politician family member thought they were immeasurably powerful and above the law. Lauren was not intimidated. ::

"Thank you, Nancy. Now..go home! Seriously you need some sleep."

:: The staff member laughed and shook her head as she left, leaving the two of them alone. Immediately, Kristin took advantage of the wet bar that Lauren's offices had, beginning to mix a batch of martinis for the both of them. ::

Kristin: "I know martinis aren't everybody's speed. But indulge an old woman."

:: In record time, Kristin had produced a damn good martini for the both of them, setting one down on Lauren's desk as she took her seat in the plush chair in front, crossing her legs at the knee and taking a deep sip. ::

Kristin: "Lauren Danvers, it's a pleasure to finally meet you."

:: Lauren took a sniff of the martini before taking a sip. ::

"Ah, but we've met before. Several times actually. I profiled you during your husband's gubneratorial run in 2012."

Kristin: "Forgive me. Perhaps my mind isn't as sharp as it once was."

:: She smiled and laughed. ::

"Oh we both know that's not true, Mrs. Pratt."

:: Lauren crossed her legs. ::

"Tell me..did you come to scare me from doing the story on your son? Or have you come to bribe me in order to sweeten the deal for yourself?"

"I lived in DC for five years, Mrs. Pratt. I've more than learned when something was covered up by your family. You leave a certain stench."

:: She crossed her hands in a professional manner, interlocking her fingers. ::

"Forgive me for not putting on airs. But I've moved past the point in my career where I need to kiss the ass of women who find themselves important simply because they've originated from powerful men. Or rather, women who like to think they are the ones who made the men they married great. As if they are anything more than a product to be exploited and then thrown away when it serves them."

[flatly]

"Nobody enters my workspace and intimidates me..Kristen."

:: She said mockingly. ::

"You don't want me to run the Simon story because it's going to make you look bad, and it's going to make the American people second guess and question your family's legacy, which by the way, is something I care little about."

:: smirking. ::

"You endorsed MysTech for over thirty years, Mrs. Pratt. Even after the mysterious death of your first husband. You got them money and influence and power. You were instrumental in the deal between Cassadine and MysTech, and we all know how that turned out. And yet somehow, despite your very morally GREY affiliations, you managed to avoid scrutiny. Any blame for the things you helped put into motion."

:: leaning in. ::

"Give me one good reason why the American public doesn't deserve to know that The Jennings and The Pratts have been near the center of the ethics crisis the Bio Tech industry has faced over the last two decades?"

:: Lauren leaned back. ::

"I've been investigating your dealings for years. And Simon just happens to present an opportunity that I cannot and WILL not pass up. Your days are numbered Kristin, and there is no social maneuvering strong enough in this world to keep me from keeping my mouth shut. You aren't the only one with connections."

:: sipping her martini. ::

"But humor me. What could you possibly have to offer me?"

 

[Mockingbird]

New York City - Lauren Danvers Office

:: Kristin smiled. This smug bitch was about to get her lumps and eat them. She had no idea what she was dealing with. She got a little power, made a few powerful friends and she thought she could run the capitol. She wasn't even in the same breed as Kristin, and Kristin knew that. So she sipped her martini slowly and relaxed for a moment. ::

"How's your grandmother doing these days, Lauren?"

Lauren: "Excuse me?"

"Your...grandmother? Forgive me, you have two. I'm speaking of Janet Locken in Dallas, Texas? The one who suffered a stroke a few years ago, and has been in and out of hospice ever since, never truly holding on to one medical victory for long before another sympton takes the driver's seat?"

Lauren: "If you've come to threaten my family, you've got another thing coming."

"Do I? Is that not what you are attempting to do me, Lauren Danvers? With your microphone and your notes? Hoping to cover the story of a boy who turns his back on his family, despite the clear and ever present danger with which he surrounds himself? I can't imagine what he might have told you about me."

Lauren: "So far, everything is lining up accurately."

:: Kristin laughs for a moment in pure jest as she leans in and looks at Lauren with a sweet smile that contained the fighting spirit of a gorilla underneath it. ::

"Well, my dear girl, Simon always was a bit of a poor student. But I guess I can't really blame him. He doesn't really know who is mother is and what's she's capable of."

Lauren: "And what is she capable of?"

"All in good time if you continue this little story, Danvers. The fact that you don't know my realm of influence only speaks to my ability. I'm sorry, I assumed you were actually good at your job. That I wouldn't have to throw so many breadcrumbs in order for you to get the whole picture."

Lauren: "And what is the whole picture, Mrs. Pratt?"

"The whole picture is that if you pursue Vanguard's story any further, not only will I ensure your grandmother dies a death that is far worse than anything that actually ails her, I will continue that path of vengeance through your family tree, and not just by pure bludgeon. I will ruin their legacy. I will make it so that nobody who ever dares to bare your last name again will ever do so with pride or comfort, because THAT is how seriously *I* take somebody attempting to pull back the veil or degrade EVERYTHING it is...that I have done for the good of this country and in the name of my FAMILY."

:: She sipped her Chardonnay. ::

"Is that clear enough for you dear? Does that..."

:: smirking ::

"Answer any questions you might have going forward about challening the Pratt or Jennings families?"

:: At that very moment, one of the production assistants from Lauren's show entered the room. ::

Assistant: "Ms. Danvers, you're wanted in the studio. We need to go over the last few days at the hill, see what we can pull from it."

:: Kristin smiled as she rose from her seat, patting down her Chanel suit. ::

"Well my MY you are a busy woman, Lauren Danvers. Don't worry, I'll get out of your hair. Thank you for sitting with me at such a late hour."

:: She nodded with elegance in the direction of Lauren before turning to the production assistant and warmly grapsing her by the shoulders. ::

"You pay attention to this one, you hear me? You could learn a lot about journalistic integrity from this woman. I mean it!"

:: Turning her head, she looked back over her shoulder at Lauren. ::

"I'll be in touch Lauren. You'll have to come up to Greenwich soon. Thorn would LOVE to show you the stables! Tata for now!"

:: And with that Kristin made her exit, strutting out of Lauren's office like a peacock. Simon didn't stand a chance in this town and Kristin was willing to pull out ALL the stops to move past this situation, to prove her value to Diana. In fact, it was a bit thrilling. She finally had an opponent that would keep her on her toes. She just didn't expect that opponent...to be her son. ::

 

[Rose]

The Sanctuary- Rose's Brownstone

If I may...Rose...I would like to stay if you don't mind. I have a tremendous respect for what you do here and, until this system is fully in place, I am not comfortable leaving tonight. Besides, I have a cricket pitch to put together for the kids to play with in the morning. I will help maintain a perimeter through the night. And wash the dishes.

Xavier had collected the dishes at super speed and, before anyone could object, was already whistling as he took them to the sink to wash them, dry them and put them away. He winked at Alycia, smiling, as he walked through the door into the kitchen...

<< Rose looked at Alycia for a moment, as Sable jumped into her arms with a soft mew.>>

Yes, Sable...he is in a hurry, isn't he?

<< Alycia smiled a bit as she and Rose exchanged a look>>

And clearly he's trying to put his best foot forward where a certain AMAZON is concerned.

<< Rose went into the kitchen, while Alycia began to speak with Danny.>>

Xavier.

<< he turned to see Rose, holding Sable in her arms>>

I realize that you are likely the fastest man on the planet, but did you stop to realize that I DO have a dish washer?

<< she smiled as she gestured toward the appliance.>>

You can just load the dishes in there, and it'll take care of them.

The new security and defense systems will be completely installed tonight and fully online tomorrow morning.

You're welcomed to stay over, I have plenty of room, but you don't have to wash the dishes to earn your keep.

<< she comes closer to him and, with Sable cradled in one arm, she extends her other, placing her soft hand on his hands, and lowering them.>>

I do have a request.

While you're here, in this time of relative peace and tranquility, please SLOW DOWN!

You're scaring my pet!

<< indeed, Sable had been rather on edge as Xavier began zooming around. Even now, her ears were tilted back and her tail was twitching, a sign of nervousness.>>

Beyond that, it's important for you to REMEMBER that not everything is solved in an impressive instant. Not everything can be powered through.

There's nothing here for you to fix.

<< She smiles at him. He hadn't interacted with her as in depth as Simon, Danny, Rae, Sharon or Alycia, but Rose was good at giving sage advice that seemed to be tailored to the right person at the right time.>>


The moon is watching us all tonight, providing calm and comfort with it's spectral light. Take this time to slow down, interact with Alycia and the others, and just BE.

<< She smiled at him, as she begin to pet Sable, who made a few soft sounds.>>

Go join the others in the parlor, and I'll show you to your room very soon, and tomorrow, you can deliver on your promise to the children with a spirited game of cricket.

 

[Spellbinder]

The Parthenon- War Room II

“I’m not as naïve as you all think I am. Ben would TOTALLY obey his queen and do something terrible to me if she requires it of him. I’m not stupid.”

But you're ACTING stupid. You're placing yourself, AND ALL OF US, at risk. What part of THAT do you not understand!?

<< Morgan bellowed as she gestured>>

<< She felt a sick sense of deja vu. she'd been here before, with Delilah regarding Bishop!>>

*softly*: “Fuck you.”

You're playing YOURSELF, Ruby. YOU'LL be the one getting fucked by Ben, and the Inner Circle.

<< Morgan fired back.>>

:: Cass turned and walked to the door, placing her hand on the doorjamb. ::

“This meeting is OVER. I don’t want to be here anymore.”

<< Morgan , who stood taller than Ruby, moved forward, and placed her hand on the door above Ruby's head, and using her super strength, she SLAMS it shut, keeping it closed for a few moments longer.>>

You listen here, Ruby. I lead this team, and when someone is behaving in a questionable manner I have the responsibility, and the RIGHT to confront him or her about it.

LIVES ARE AT STAKE, and I don't give a DAMN about your emotional roller coaster where BEN is concerned.

If you think for one moment that he WON'T do what's necessary to advance the agenda of the Inner Circle at yours our anyone ELSE on this team's expense, then you are FOOLISH.

I meant what I said earlier, Ruby. If you aren't on board with US, if you can't be HONEST with us, then you know where the door is, and if you walk out that door for Ben? DON'T BOTHER COMING BACK.

And whatever happens to you from that moment forward? You'll be ON YOUR OWN.

<< Morgan was not about to allow this team to be held hostage by the foolish behavior of anyone, including Ruby. If SHE was stupid enough to give Ben LEVERAGE, then she would open herself to a world of pain that could make the purifiers seem like a walk in the park! For someone who should KNOW better, the girl WAS coming across as very naive, and for someone who claimed that this was her family? She wasn't doing a very good job of showing it. >>

<< Morgan released her hold on the door, and Ruby left. Morgan turned to Nicolas, with a look of disbelief on her face.>>

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!

 

[Tachyon]

<< Rose went into the kitchen, while Alycia began to speak with Danny.>>

Xavier.

<< he turned to see Rose, holding Sable in her arms>>

I realize that you are likely the fastest man on the planet, but did you stop to realize that I DO have a dish washer?

<< she smiled as she gestured toward the appliance.>>

You can just load the dishes in there, and it'll take care of them.

The new security and defense systems will be completely installed tonight and fully online tomorrow morning.

You're welcomed to stay over, I have plenty of room, but you don't have to wash the dishes to earn your keep.

Once again, the unfailingly perfect host. Xavier slowly nodded his head.

My apologies, Rose. I am much better at giving than I am receiving and this dinner, such great camaraderie, I did not want you to have to bother with dishes is all.

In a second all of the dishes were loaded and the counters wiped down. There, that was that.

<< she comes closer to him and, with Sable cradled in one arm, she extends her other, placing her soft hand on his hands, and lowering them.>>

I do have a request.

While you're here, in this time of relative peace and tranquility, please SLOW DOWN!

You're scaring my pet!

<< indeed, Sable had been rather on edge as Xavier began zooming around. Even now, her ears were tilted back and her tail was twitching, a sign of nervousness.>>

Beyond that, it's important for you to REMEMBER that not everything is solved in an impressive instant. Not everything can be powered through.

There's nothing here for you to fix.

<< She smiles at him. He hadn't interacted with her as in depth as Simon, Danny, Rae, Sharon or Alycia, but Rose was good at giving sage advice that seemed to be tailored to the right person at the right time.>>


The moon is watching us all tonight, providing calm and comfort with it's spectral light. Take this time to slow down, interact with Alycia and the others, and just BE.

<< She smiled at him, as she begin to pet Sable, who made a few soft sounds.>>

Go join the others in the parlor, and I'll show you to your room very soon, and tomorrow, you can deliver on your promise to the children with a spirited game of cricket.

Of course, sudden movements and hunters, which cats were, often did not mix well. He had not been mindful.

Once again, begging your pardon, ma'am. And yours as well, Sable.

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.

Xavier returned to the parlor, seating himself by Alycia who was speaking with Danny. He sat patiently as they spoke, waiting for an opening before speaking to Danny.

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?

 

[Cypher]

Zizi: "I can't make any promises, so prepare yourself to make a hasty retreat."

Gabe chuckled.

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

He didn't hear any porno music. Or moans. They either WERE asleep or Zach needed a lesson in how to please a lady. Considering what a dick he was to him earlier, Gabe hoped Zach couldn't get it up. Either way, he really didn't want to interact with either of them again after the bullshit he endured earlier.

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

He grumbled as they made their way into the main common room. That was where they did in fact meet with a very awake and naked Zach and Ashley. Gabe resisted the urge to roll his eyes, giving them a polite yet small forced smile. They were both wrapped in a blanket, obviously having just got done having sex. And eating Chinese. Probably not the best combo but hey, who was he to judge in others sexual games.

Ashley: "How was dinner? We're just gonna get out of your hair."

He didn't bother to answer, letting Zizi interact with her friends considering he really didn't enjoy either of them at that present time. Stepping aside as Ashley lead Zach into her room, Gabe finally rolled his eyes as he walked over to the computer area and placed the boxes of dessert down.

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

Gabe headed into the kitchen.

 

[Verdict]

Ambrosia

Darren settled himself into the booth and they ordered drinks and appetizers. He waited for the waiter to leave and then he asked Sharon if she ever missed being Senator.

Sharon: I've not let myself think about that part of my life too much. It's almost like I've tried to.... "mute" that time in my life.

"But why?"

He asked in a bemused tone. She spoke of the loss of her husband and son, as well as her own demise and Darren reached across the table to put his hand on hers. He may not have ever died and come back to life, but he certainly understood the pain of losing a spouse, and just imagining the loss of a child was grievous.

Sharon: Until VERY recently, I had come to RESENT my time spent as a senator. It felt like the people [ some on the Six, some on the Birds of prey] didn't understand OR appreciate what that involved...and what it COST ME, being such a staunch, PUBLIC ally to them.

"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."

Sharon mentioned that she'd spoken with people recently who reminded her of why she'd been motivated to help in the first place, and Darren warmly smiled. Their drinks were delivered and then Sharon continued, as Darren sipped his cocktail.

Sharon: That part of my life is as essential to who I am NOW as any other. I operate in a different role now...but my driving motivation is still the same. I sometimes wondered what would be better...if I could return to being a senator? OR if I'd.... ....if I'd stayed dead. Would I have more power as a martyr, rather than as the..."vengeful Silver Swan?"

"But Sharon.... if you were dead, you'd have no power at all. The Silver Swan is a hero to many in this city, vengeful or not, you still fight the good fight. Every breath you take is in defiance of your enemies, and every life you save is a slap in the face of those who wished to use you as a weapon to cause pain and suffering."

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."

 

[Orion]

The Clocktower

Zach surmised that Ash's grandfather must have been a legend for killing a dragon, and she rolled her eyes at him, but they were sharing a smile about it.

Ashley: Of course he was. He wore one of the teeth around his neck until the day he died. Killing that thing is how he got the support to become king. And, you know, killing the last one.

"Badass."

He said, draining the rest of his beer. As she pulled her hair away from her shoulders and bared her neck for him. Didn't she know what that did to him? She could probably tell from the shift in his expression.

Ashley: That’s why the dragon. It’s kind of a family thing.

He traced the ink with a fingertip, barely paying the movie any attention now. She poked him playfully and teased that he was lucky she even gave him the time of day.

"No argument there..."

He agreed, as they snuggled in closer on the couch, and kept the running commentary on the movie. She rested her head on his shoulder and got comfortable with the position, content to let her fall asleep just like that. He'd carry her to bed after the movie, right now he just wanted to enjoy the moment.

Ashley: What do you want to do tomorrow?

He smiled and turned his head so his lips were close to her ear and his breath was hot on her neck.

"You."

He answered simply in a low tone. And in fact he could probably go for that right now, but he figured she was exhausted and wouldn't push it.

Ashley: Zizi's home. And she's not alone.

"Maybe Gamer Gabe got his head out of his ass after all."

He suggested at a volume that wouldn't carry far. She held him by the shoulders and suggested a shower. At his place. Where nobody would disturb them. Yes, he was on board with THAT idea.

Ashley: I mean, I'd hate for Gabe to get all intimidated at the way you make me scream. He might never fuck her then.

"That would be tragic."

He deadpanned, as she pulled the blanket up for cover. Zach was glad to still be wearing his pants from when he answered the door earlier.

"Welcome back Ziz, Gabe."

Ashley: How was dinner? We're just gonna get out of your hair.

"Yeah, give us like ten minutes to get dressed and you'll have the whole place to yourselves."

Zach assumed dinner went pretty good, since Zizi wasn't heartbroken and Gabe had walked her alllllll the way up here. Gabe, of course, rudely ignored both Ash and Zach, but Zach let it go since he was busy grabbing his phone, wallet, and keys from the coffee table and looking around on the floor for something.

"How is it that I always lose this shirt??"

He asked, as Ashley took his hand and led him away.

"Oh wait, don't you still have my henley from the other night?"

He remembered, as they reached her bedroom. Ash cast the blanket off and Zach found his scrubs shirt twisted up in the folds of it.

 

[Artemis]

The Sanctuary- Rose's House- After dinner

:: Good dinner, good company, for this moment in time, it seemed like things were...OKAY!::

:: An amazing italian feast, a touching word from Rose, and a curious after-dinner drink, as only she could have made. Although Alycia's palate had become accustomed to, and PREFERRED the liquid concoctions found on Themyscira, she was always appreciative of a good drink, and after everything they'd been through? Rose's toast, under the comforting moonlight, was right on time.::

:: Soon, Oracle and Gabe were leaving.::

“Thank you again, Rose. This was a terrific event. I’m really honored you asked us. Rae, Danny – nice to formally meet you both. Alycia, Xavier, Simon – I’ll see you all soon, I hope.”

:: As Zizi and Gabe were heading toward the double doors, Alycia followed them.::

Zizi...

:: She went to Zizi, and took her hands into her own::

It was good to see you tonight.

For the first time, since all this began...it really feels like WE might have a chance to turn this around, and that Rose will be okay.

:: She looked at her friend.::

But there's still a few things I have to work on...

:: Namely Dennis Nedry.::

The meeting between Rose and....Darren Hudson, from Clandestine inc. After I cited the sentinel event clause in the contract, They're not going to try to force her to stay in the contract. There's some other details, but that was the most important one, and it's now resolved.

Rose still has not softened on her position regarding Zach, but I think NOW, with the new security/defense system that is going up, and talks with Clandestine Inc going in the right direction, there may be room for Sharon and myself to discuss that with her.

I'll be in touch with you tomorrow.....or sooner...if anything happens.

You two be safe, okay?

:: and with that, Alycia says goodbye to both of them, seeing them out, and watching them as Gabe gets Zizi in the car. She takes a moment to look at the beautiful moon that is hanging low, and almost glowing, and she smiles a bit as she closes the double doors and heads back inside where the others are.::

:: She walks slowly, taking in the site of Rose's beautiful brownstone. It's a comfortable place, imbued with Rose's power, and while the woman clearly has means and resources, she does not live EXTRAVAGANTLY, instead she devotes herself to providing a comfortable, secure, well rounded life for her children, many of whom will only know her, and each other for family and stability. The actual ophanage house- which is two buildings next door-connected to Rose's brownstone via several secret passages- looks more like a HOME than a sterile, cold, traditional orphange, and the children aren't crammed together like sardines.::

:: And now, with Gabe's help, this entire city block, that Rose own's outright, will be secure and protected again by tomorrow morning.::

:: Alycia stops once more, and looks out of a window, another view of the moon::

::sigh!::

:: She hears the voices of the others, mainly Danny, Rae, and Simon.::

Simon Pratt....

:: she made her way into the parlor, where they were, enjoying after dinner drinks, and Danny welcomed her back, offering her a drink.::

I could literally run home, and get some of my amazonian concoctions to share....but another time::

Thank you.

:: She took the drink and seated herself she was on the opposite side of the room from where Rae and Simon where when Danny joined her. They were seated by a window.::

What a lovely evening.

That moon is beautiful.

:: She wondered if Gabe and Zizi were ALSO "moonstruck". They certainly seemed to have good chemistry. In fact, Alycia couldn't recall seeing Oracle like THAT before, it was definitely different, but Gabe seemed to genuinely be sweet on her. She soon thought about Sharon and Darren. She hoped the moon was "smiling" on them as well, goddess knows Sharon deserved some happiness and enjoyment too.::

:: And what about HERSELF? After the hurt and heartache caused by Cameron and Haleigh? And then being stabbed in the back, quite literally, by Persephone? Well...if Xavier's conversation, and charm was any indication, the moon hadn't missed her either, and she'd do JUST fine.::

:: She stretched a bit. Nothing she'd had to drink tonight was enough to leave her inebriated, due to her amazonian enhanced constitution, but she was definitely feeling smooth and relaxed, and the glow of the moon was like a soothing touch to her soul::

So, Danny, about Simon Pratt.

:: she eyed him knowingly. He had definitely picked the right time to advocate on Simon's behalf, and Alycia appreciated his apparent ability to hob knob, and negotiate.::

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 Kabbalah" just because Madonna was?

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.

::she looks over at Simon, who is talking to Rae. He looks different even from when she last saw him at Blaze's debutante ball. He looks a bit more muscular, less polished, and there's a weariness in his eyes. ::

I know Simon's backstory (Cameron, Vivica), and I've seen the way he behaves...up until recently.

:: she takes a drink::

But I also know what he's been through recently.

:: the attack by Ava.::

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.

:: Alycia thought about how she and Sharon had to reevaluate their own methods where Rose was concerned.::

This isn't a short term project, Danny.

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.

:: she paused for a moment, and looked around. Rose would be returning to them soon, and it was such a lovely evening, there was no reason to spoil it with something heavy.::

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...

:: shifting a bit as she crossed her legs at the knee and leaned back in her seat, looking at Danny with a relaxed expression on her face::

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!

:: She nodded, and winked at Danny, holding her glass in a "cheers" motion, before taking another drink, and holding it out to him to refill it::

:: by then, Xavier came to join them, and he seated himself COMFORTABLY CLOSE to Alycia. She moved, just to accommodate him, but not putting any distance between them.::

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?

:: That was a good question. It's too bad that he would never be able to meet Barbara Minerva, but he MIGHT benefit from meeting Alison Marble!::

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.::

 

[Tycoon]

Molloy's

Delilah agreed to the terms of their bet, and Gavin smiled to hear the confidence expressed by his opponent, because he knew his victory would be all the more satisfying.

Delilah: Don’t I get to stand on the girl line?

"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."

He replied, as he paid close attention to tracking her score. He avidly plotted the adventure they'd take after his inevitable triumph. He knew of a breathtaking two stage waterfall in the Catskill Mountains they could parachute to.

Just thinking of the place helped him hit some very respectable numbers on his first turn.

Delilah: I didn’t realize how hungry I was. So glad you ordered.

"Well you're quite welcome, but do save room for all the crow you'll be eating later."

He said with a broad smile before washing down a loaded potato skin with some beer.

He resumed his thoughts on their parachuting. With a little prior planning, he could have a picnic lunch waiting for them, and a helicopter to pick them up after a nice day spent swimming in the pool formed between the two cascades.

He'd have to make sure to schedule this experience for good warm weather. He took his place in front of the dart board and aimed with a deft hand.

Delilah: Oh hey, isn’t that the Queen?

He hit the outer bullseye, and then up a little higher for the twenty, and then up again for the triple ring.

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

He said casually, and then his gaze snapped over to her, and he laughed jovially.

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

 

[Valkyrie]

The Clocktower

The skin on Ashley's neck prickled as Zach traced her tattoo. When he reclined on the sofa, she rested her head on His shoulder, fully content with falling asleep just like that. She asked him what he wanted to do the next day.

"You."

She smiled against his bare skin.

"Funny, I was planning on doing the same thing."

She was considering whether or not to give him a preview of just exactly what she had planned for him, when Zizi arrived home. Ash was having second thoughts at turning down an apartment on one of the empty floors...

"Maybe Gamer Gabe got his head out of his ass after all."

She yawned.

"Doubt it."

She saw the glint in his eye as she suggested going to his place for the rest of the night. Zizi wasn't in tears, so she certainly didn't need them hanging around. Zach couldn't find the top to his bottoms, not that she minded. He asked if she still had his shirt from the other night.

"That one's mine now. Sorrynotsorry."

Once they were in her room, she threw a duffle bag onto the bed and unceremoniously threw a change of clothes in it, dumping a few toiletries on top - though less than you would expect a modern female to take with her. She threw in a pair of trainers - she was only wearing heels for effect and certainly wasn't wearing them longer than she had to - and added in something black and lacy before zipping the bag. She buttoned their old friend the trench dress once again and was ready to go, throwing the duffle over her shoulder.

She exited past Zizi & Gabe, who were of course back at the computers, giving Zizi a wave.

"We'll be at Zach's."

She had to smile, liking the sound of that.

She leaned against him in the elevator.

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