The Wrath of Rose

[Dennis Nedry]

And what do we have here? My two own very HOT felons hugging after successfully kidnapping a poor orphaned child with special needs.

Is that what you people call yourselves now? Differently abled? GMOs? Special? No idea what the term is these days it changes so much.

Anyways... We have a date Miss Thang. Thanks for dressing for the occasion.

Dennis gives her a once over, his eyes peeled her from her outfit and did any number of unspeakable things to her. Zach and even Rae would be nauseated.

Well, that's enough catching up. Excuse me, Detective Field Hand.

Dennis motions dismissively to Steel.

Round this crew up and let's roll to the courtroom. After you Sustain Gal. If you work it for me MAYBE I'll let yo peepuh go!

Gesturing towards the doorway Dennis laughs, the culmination of his role in this almost complete and his rewards nearly at hand. He looks back at Steel.

Don't side eye ME, Shaft. The cops are the ones holding a brotha down, right? Thought so. Let's get a move on.

Dennis walks out and towards the courtroom. They have no choice but to follow.

 

[Steel]

Witness Waiting Room

Zach backed him up, and then Rae gave Rose some tough love - whether it would work or cause her to kill all of them, he couldn't tell. But it seemed to talk her down enough that she was at least not going to kill Zach. But she was holding firm on him not being able to see the child. In his position in the community, he knew what it meant to children who had lost their parents to have someone step into a role the way Zach had. To have that taken away...even though Jake would still have Rose... He struggled to see how that was best for Jake, though he understood Rose's desire to protect her child from harm.

Rose turned to exit the room, and he let out a sigh of relief that things had de-escalated. But something was up in this courthouse, and he didn't think it was a good idea for Rose - despite what she had just done and to some extent because of it - to be out alone in the building. Then Alycia arrived.

I'm sorry for the delay. But I NOW have EVERYthing I need...

"Oh thank God. Alycia-"

He cut off his statement as Dennis Nedry walked into the room, a smug, self-satisfied look on his fat face. Steel hadn't come into contact with Nedry before this, but he recognized him from his file. Remembering the things that had been in that file made his skin crawl.

Scumbag.

"And what do we have here? My two own very HOT felons hugging after successfully kidnapping a poor orphaned child with special needs. Is that what you people call yourselves now? Differently abled? GMOs? Special? No idea what the term is these days it changes so much."

Anger flashed through him at Nedry speaking about Jake as if he were somehow defective, but he held it in check. He spoke calmly and in his formal "official" voice.

"Miss Rose was released from police custody - all charges dropped. I've been with her since then, and I witnessed no kidnapping."

"Anyways... We have a date Miss Thang. Thanks for dressing for the occasion."

Nedry's eyes were undressing Alycia, and seeing it, John clenched his jaw and took a slow step towards Nedry.

"I think you're in the wrong room, Nedry. I think there's somewhere else you need to be."

Well, that's enough catching up. Excuse me, Detective Field Hand.

And Nedry waved his hand at him.

"What did you just say to me?"

Steel's hand clenched into a fist.

"Round this crew up and let's roll to the courtroom. After you Sustain Gal. If you work it for me MAYBE I'll let yo peepuh go!"

"I don't answer to you."

Steel's blood was boiling by now. Who did this little arsehole think he was? Talking to Alycia this way?

"And you owe Ms. Barnett an apology."

Don't side eye ME, Shaft. The cops are the ones holding a brotha down, right? Thought so. Let's get a move on.

Nedry started to leave, but John moved to block his way.

"I said, you owe Ms. Barnett an apology."

He took a step forward towards Nedry, squaring up to him. This wanker didn't deserve to walk the same streets as Alycia Barnett. He abused women and children, hurt the people he was supposed to protect. He was a disgrace. Steel glared down at him.

"Now you listen to me, you fat little tosser. You can take your orders and shove them straight up your own arse."

He took another step forward, pushing Nedry backwards.

"Your racist, sexist comments have no place here, or anywhere, and you WILL apologize to the lady, to all the ladies present."

He shoved him back again, harder this time.

"Cause you listen to me, you corrupt little prick, you waste of space: where I'm from, we throw the runts in the river."

Steel grabbed him by the collar.

"Do you really think anyone woould care if I ripped your heart out right here, right now? Do you think anyone would miss a lying CUNT like you?!"

He lifted Nedry off the ground by the collar.

"I will end you, you utter piece of SHITE, do you hear me? One way or another, I will take you DOWN."

Steel smiled, cold and hard, no mirth in it, his eyes daggers.

"And I really hope it's the messy way."

 

[Dennis Nedry]

Steel smiled, cold and hard, no mirth in it, his eyes daggers.

"And I really hope it's the messy way."

Are you done yet Mr. WeThrowTheRunts in the River? That is your problem and you're too stupid to know it. Everyone is a runt to your corn-fed ass. And you walk around pushing and pushing, never realizing that is what will fuck you up. The tape of this room will be the reason your ass ends up as the works biggest meter maid if you're lucky. You want an apology? FINE.

Steel let him go and he straightened his jacket lapel.

I'm SORRY.

Nedry excited the room. The bailiffs were outside.

That the bus only held 22.

The bailiffs closed around him like a phalanx and he headed to the courtroom

 

[Valkyrie]

Witness Waiting Room

Ashley could feel Zach holding her, like a warm blanket wrapping her up.

"Il mio amore, sono qui. Ti ho preso. Stai bene?"

She could hear his voice, but when she opened her mouth nothing came out. Rose was still berating him, about Haleigh, about the kids that had died. As if any of that was Zach's fault...

Rose was going to attack, and she knew it. She pleased with Steel to intervene, told Zach to run. But Zach just shook his head. She felt his lips against her forehead, and tears came to her eyes. He was putting her into a chair.

"No...Zach..."

John was trying to talk to Rose, convince her to stop.

"No, Rose! Stop this - Rae, please tell her!"

"John is absolutely right. We DO need to work together, and you need to utilize every resource available to fight back against Nedry and Hellfire. Killing me, hurting ANY of us... it will only HURT your cause, Rose. This battle cannot be won with violence."

No, violence against ROSE was exactly what was needed. Why did everyone insist on talking? Why didn't anyone treat Rose like the threat she was?

"Stop...coddling...her..."

That Rae woman went off on Rose, which was an improvement, and she actually said shit that made sense, like telling Rose how ridiculous going after Zach was.

"I'm sorry baby girl, but we BOTH know what you got chained to you, and that means you HAVE to keep it together. It's not fuckin' fair. It's not fuckin' right, but it's the goddamn truth. You lose control and it won't just be your CHILDREN that suffer..it'll be the WORLD."

Um, what?

You may SURVIVE, but STAY AWAY from my child, Zach. NOW and FOREVER.

"You know that I can help him, Rose. You know that he needs me."

Ashley could see him, leaning against the table. He was so upset, she could tell. He cared so much about Jake. About everyone, really. And all he seemed to get from it was pain. In her experience, caring usually did bring pain, but Zach didn't deserve that. He was too good to feel so bad. He loved her, she knew that. What he felt about Haleigh didn't matter. Even now, he stood there, caring more about protecting Jake - and Ashley herself - than keeping himself safe.

She put her hands on the arms of the chair and pushed herself up. She took a few shaky steps forward, and then wrapped her arms around Zach's middle, pressing her cheek against his back. She loved him so much right then, she thought her heart would burst.

"We'll find a way," she whispered against his back.

"Together."

 

[Cypher]

Gabe watched as Rae exploded at Rose trying to talk some sense into her. But Rose wouldn't budge on Zach being apart of Jake's life. The guy looked heartbroken--it made Gabe grimace. He may not have gotten along with Zach, but that didn't mean he was a bad guy. It didn't mean that kid didn't love him and he should be kept away. He hoped Rae would talk her down and smooth things over more, but the moment just kept getting worse. Alycia walked in and shortly there after, Nedry.

Gabe watched as Nedry basically undressed Alycia with his eyes, saying offensive and racially charged comments towards her. Gripping the arm of his computer chair, this prick needed to be BEAT DOWN.

"Fucking asshole..."

Immediately Gabe began to tap a few buttons on the computer, hacking into the mainframe of the courthouse security systems. He began to download all the live feeds directly into the Clocktower's database in case they needed to be used at a later time. HOWEVER simultaneously he began to SCRAMBLE all the the security footage within the courthouse as well. Anyone who would try to access the footage from the time the Birds entered the courthouse would find nothing but 'white noise'.

All while Gabe was doing this, John was confronting Nedry.

Nedry: And you walk around pushing and pushing, never realizing that is what will fuck you up. The tape of this room will be the reason your ass ends up as the works biggest meter maid if you're lucky.

>> "I've scrambled the security footage. Nedry doesn't have SHIT to use against any of you."

Gabe relayed to the Birds. He may not be able to punch the guy in the fucking throat, but he'd at least make it a whole lot harder for him to take down the Birds of Prey.

 

[Steel]

Witness Waiting Room

"Are you done yet Mr. WeThrowTheRunts in the River? That is your problem and you're too stupid to know it. Everyone is a runt to your corn-fed ass. And you walk around pushing and pushing, never realizing that is what will fuck you up. The tape of this room will be the reason your ass ends up as the works biggest meter maid if you're lucky."

Steel pulled Nedry's disgusting face closer to his.

"Oh, no, it's not MY career this little tete a tete would destroy. You made racist and sexist comments, as well as derogatory comments about a child in your care, in front of an UN ambassador. You'll never work again."

He made sure to look Nedry dead in the eye before whispering, "Let alone WALK again."

>> "I've scrambled the security footage. Nedry doesn't have SHIT to use against any of you."

You read my mind, friend.

You want an apology? FINE.

Steel threw Nedry forcefully down to the ground, releasing his grip.

I'm SORRY. That the bus only held 22.

Steel was blind with rage. Those children. This piece of trash. Nedry walked out of the room, where a group of bailiffs sheltered him as they went towards the courtroom. But Steel didn't care. His body melted to organic steel, and he leapt for Nedry.

 

[Oracle]

Witness Waiting Room

But what about Black Widow?! SHE walks free. She'll come after my children again and He REFUSES to see the TRUTH! He wishes to DEFEND a MONSTER! What does that make HIM!?

"A good man, Rose. He sees the good in everyone, wants to protect everyone. Including you. He only wants to help you, and Jake."

But what she said fell on deaf ears - Rose would not believe anything they said. Rae DID step in then, bless her. She out of everyone present seemed to be the one who could actually talk sense into Rose. Finally Rose stood down from her attack.

You may SURVIVE, but STAY AWAY from my child, Zach. NOW and FOREVER.

Zizi bowed her head. Zach was no closer to Jake now, than he had been before. Oracle hoped that seeing them together would show Rose that Jake needed Zach in his life, but it turned out the opposite. Zach looked so forlorn, like his own soul had been ripped out of his chest. Or at least, his heart.

Oracle whispered solemnly to Vivica.

"We need to find a way to fix this once Jake is safe."

But then, they were joined by another familiar face.

"Alycia! Thank goodness you're here."

Maybe she could talk sense into Rose, AFTER she blew Nedry out of the courtroom. Speaking of...

That skunk walked into the waiting room, leering at Alycia, making comments about Jake, her, and John. It was disgusting. HE was disgusting. The only bright spot was that Oracle knew what Alycia could do in the courtroom.

"You know, Mr. Nedry, everyone eventually gets exactly what they deserve."

Zizi had known John a lot of years, and though most of the time, he was a big puppy dog, he had a temper. And it came out when innocent people, people who couldn't fend for themselves, were being hurt. And it got directed at the people that were doing the hurting, and John cared nothing about consequences. And that's what happened now.

Steel's temper flared red hot, and he told Nedry exactly what he thought of him, exactly what he wanted to do. Steel lifted Nedry off the ground, and Zizi said his name, her voice a warning. But he continued, and Nedry threatened to use it against him.

>> "I've scrambled the security footage. Nedry doesn't have SHIT to use against any of you."

The corners of Zizi's mouth turned up.

[via com, to Cypher]: "I love you."

Steel finally let Nedry go, and he walked out of the room.

I'm SORRY. That the bus only held 22.

Zizi's mouth dropped. Despite all the terrible things Nedry had said, THIS was the worst. And it was clear that he meant it. The man was scum, but Zizi would have thought even scum would't sink so low. It happened fast - bailiffs formed a protective barrier around Nedy, Steel turning metallic, and then lunging for Nedry.

"John, no!"

 

[Orion]

The Courthouse -- Witness Waiting Room

Zizi tried to vouch for Zach too, and still, Rose wouldn't relent, but at least she backed off. Sharon tried to stop her from leaving the room, much to Zach's dismay. The more distance between him and Rose right now, the better. Her animosity felt like a weight pressing the air out of his lungs, crushing his chest. The idea that Jake would be made to suffer more, and for a longer time period than was necessary, left Zach in agony.

Ashley was behind him, wrapping him in a hug. It felt like he could breathe again, and he inhaled deeply. She was telling him that they'd find a way, and giving him hope again. He put his hands over hers, then turned to face her, and hugged her back as he quietly asked her if she was alright. His hand went to her chin, lifting gently so he could see her.

Alycia finally showed up, and Rose hugged her gratefully. The shift in Rose's emotion was a great relief for Zach, but that was short lived. Nedry was here, and he was being his usual, horrible self. Zach's head swiveled slowly to look at the CFS agent, his countenance darkening as he sensed Alycia's disgust, and Nedry's gross attraction. Zach grit his teeth as her heard the things Nedry was saying. This asshole was the absolute worst. Zach felt the overwhelming urge to punch the peon.

Steele's rage rose, and there was nothing Zach could do about it, nor anything he wanted to do about it. Not yet, anyway. John was getting in Nedry's face and it was gentler treatment than the little weasel deserved, but then, there were so many witnesses. At least Gabe told them that there wouldn't be any video evidence. John demanded an apology from Nedry.

Nedry: I'm SORRY. That the bus only held 22.

Zach almost launched for Nedry, but Ashley held him back. Steele was free to go after him though, and did so. Zizi shouted after him, but there was only one person here who could stop John now.

"Sharon!"

Zach shouted, hoping she'd know that as badly as they wanted to pulverize Nedry, they couldn't do it here and now. They'd get his ass later, Zach promised himself, and he steadied his stance. He still had an arm around Ash, and here in the background, no one was paying attention to either of them anymore. Zach raised his free hand in Nedry's direction. He took all the anxiety that he'd pulled from Jake earlier, all the pain and terror, and he poured it into Nedry's black little heart. When he ran out of that, he forced guilt and grief onto the arrogant swine, then sorrow and shame followed that.

It all happened in the blink of an eye. It wasn't enough to kill Nedry, because they couldn't yet. But it was plenty enough to shake the dirtbag down to his corrupt core. The bonus was that it provided Zach an outlet for all those heavy emotions, and once he was done he felt much better himself. Now, he could help John with his temper. Zach's hand shifted to Steele's direction, and he drained some of that rage. It was like a shot of adrenaline, and made his hand shake, but still he pulled hot fury out, so Steele could cool back down again before he killed this degenerate.

 

[Silver Swan]

The Courthouse- the waiting rooom

[ Secretly, Sharon had hoped Rose would leave Ashley catatonic. It would've been a humbling that woman WELL deserved, but the unintended consequences of that were NOT worth it. Thankfully, RAE was able to intervene.]

[ Vivica and Xavier arrived just as Steel and Rae were able to bring Rose back from the brink. Sharon bowed her head, placing her armored hand on her forehead.]

[ She HATED Black Widow for what she'd done, and that woman had SCORES of retribution. She sympathized with Rose. She KNEW that a large portion of what was going on was that this woman was being misunderstood. Rae was right, not only had Sharon and Alycia approached her the wrong way, just about everyone else had too, and that was costing them.]

[ She felt VERY bad for Zach. Yes, she'd been angry with him for his inexplicable belief in Haleigh and Ava after all they'd done, AND she couldn't understand how he could love someone like Ashley, but she hated to see him being berated and torn down by Rose, who was now using aspects of the truth as a weapon.]

"You know that I can help him, Rose. You know that he needs me."

He replied, stricken with grief and sorrow. He braced himself against the table next to him, looking very much like he might collapse.

You're NOT what he needs. Any man who would defend a soulless MONSTER like Black Widow is NOT FIT to be around the survivors of her attack.

Zachary...Haleigh is NOT worth it! She doesn't deserve this level of loyalty from you, not after all she's done! Just...LET ROSE HAVE HER. It would save us ALL alot of trouble, and the WORLD would be better off without her! Don't you see?

[ She didn't care what the others thought about her saying it aloud, and she she knew he wouldn't agree. But she wanted him to NO LONGER be a target of Rose's anger, and it seemed that him relenting on the issue of Haleigh might make that happen!]

[ She'd NEVER understand why he seemed to be so steadfast for the most horrible and undeserving women, namely Haleigh and Ashley.]

[ But this was ZACHARY ARMANI. Years ago, when Zach was her page, he helped her through the dark, painful valley of mourning the loss of her husband and son. They had their time of physical intimacy, Sharon knew on a deeper level that it was only "for a season." He seemed to know what she NEEDED, & he met that need in a way that no one else at that time good. She never forgot that about him. When that "season" reached its end, they remained close friends, until her violent death at the hands of Master Mold. Their road back to each other since her return as the Silver Swan has been complicated. They didn't recognize each other like they once did, but recent events proved to Zach that Sharon still cared about him deeply. She would NEVER approve of Ashley for him, not when there were more worthy women like ALYCIA, but the hard reality was, Sharon had no say in who he chose to be with. But like Alycia, she hoped that he wouldn't let Ashley interfere with his relationships that predated her. And if for no other reason than SELF PRESERVATION, she hoped he would somehow see that it was BETTER for him to just BACK OFF defending Haleigh from Rose, so that ROSE would stop berating him!]

"You don't understand."

He said, his expression twisted in pain.

[ Rose turned away from them, and was about to exit]

Rose, WAIT! You shouldn't leave...there's something WRONG all over this building...and I'm hearing things...

[ But then ALYCIA appeared, and almost crashed into Rose. Sharon noted Alycia's new outfit. She looked "battle ready" for the kind of battle she was so qualified for, but there was a coldness in her eyes and her facial expression, even as she hugged Rose.]

"Alycia! Thank goodness you're here."

"Oh thank God. Alycia-"

[ Indeed. But then...]

And what do we have here? My two own very HOT felons hugging after successfully kidnapping a poor orphaned child with special needs.

Is that what you people call yourselves now? Differently abled? GMOs? Special? No idea what the term is these days it changes so much.

Anyways... We have a date Miss Thang. Thanks for dressing for the occasion.

Dennis gives her a once over, his eyes peeled her from her outfit and did any number of unspeakable things to her. Zach and even Rae would be nauseated.

[ Alycia just stared at Nedry. Sharon had seen this look before. The woman had faced down the worst of the worst in court before, and would not be intimidated, but she KNEW Nedry "touched" her in another way....not unlike Rick Riley. Sharon immediately walked over, and inserted herself between them, BUMPING Nedry back, now standing between them with her hands on her hips, and blocking his view of Alycia and Rose. ]

You need to SHUT your mouth.

"You know, Mr. Nedry, everyone eventually gets exactly what they deserve."

Well, that's enough catching up. Excuse me, Detective Field Hand.

Dennis motions dismissively to Steel.

Round this crew up and let's roll to the courtroom. After you Sustain Gal. If you work it for me MAYBE I'll let yo peepuh go!

[ Sharon's mouth opened in disbelief. Nedry was a sexist pig, an anti-mutant bigot, AND a racist. They were ALL seeing what she and Rae had see him do to Rose and Alycia at the Sanctuary, and now he was trying John. It would cost him. ]

"I don't answer to you."

Steel's blood was boiling by now. Who did this little arsehole think he was? Talking to Alycia this way?

"And you owe Ms. Barnett an apology."

[ Soon Steel had him hemmed up, and was ready to rip him apart. NOBODY in the room seemed terribly motivated to stop John in this moment, but they all knew it would cause more problems if it happened NOW.]

Don't side eye ME, Shaft. The cops are the ones holding a brotha down, right? Thought so. Let's get a move on.

[ Steel gave Nedry a verbal beat down, and FORCED him to apologize to Alycia.]

Are you done yet Mr. WeThrowTheRunts in the River? That is your problem and you're too stupid to know it. Everyone is a runt to your corn-fed ass. And you walk around pushing and pushing, never realizing that is what will fuck you up. The tape of this room will be the reason your ass ends up as the works biggest meter maid if you're lucky. You want an apology? FINE.

Steel let him go and he straightened his jacket lapel.

I'm SORRY.

Nedry excited the room. The bailiffs were outside.

That the bus only held 22.

The bailiffs closed around him like a phalanx and he headed to the courtroom

::GASP!::

Steel was blind with rage. Those children. This piece of trash. Nedry walked out of the room, where a group of bailiffs sheltered him as they went towards the courtroom. But Steel didn't care. His body melted to organic steel, and he leapt for Nedry.

[ It happened so FAST!]

"John, no!"

"Sharon!"

[ Alycia managed to keep Rose contained....and as much as Sharon WANTED Steel to FLATTEN Nedry...she knew, just like the others, that it couldn't happen this way. Not NOW at least.]

[ She ZOOMED over, timing her move just right to intercept Steel, and catching him as she hovered in the air. She was the only one who could HOLD him in place, while hovering in the air like this. His rage was palpable, and even in his current form, Sharon could "HEAR" his savage heart.]

HOLD.

[ She commanded, using a SMALL fraction of her sonic power to enhance her voice, it wouldn't HURT him, but it would definitely STARTLE him out of his tunnel vision on Nedry]

You helped me in Charope's Infirmary. Let ME help YOU now.

[ She lowers them both to the ground.]

I KNOW what you want... This isn't the first time I've witnessed him in action. He's BENEATH contempt!

[ She says as she now has her hands on either side of his face, engaging him very closely]

But NOT now. We CAN'T Steel, NOT right now! You're NOT sparing him, you're helping Alycia and Rose!

[ She looked him in the eyes, silently communicating with him. She knew he would understand]

Let ALYCIA do her work, and DESTROY him...and THEN?

Well, it's as Oracle said....EVERYONE eventually gets what they DESERVE.

[ She searched his eyes with her silver eyes as Zach added his effort to help Steel calm. Sharon didn't BLAME him. Nedry was a sexist, racist, bigoted PIG...and to think of how many OTHERS had their lives ruined by her was a terrible thought! But NOW? Alycia was going to get him! Jake would stay with Rose, and things would be OKAY.]

 

[Tachyon]

The scene was outrageous. This Nedry person was indeed as vile as anyone could imagine and he had everyone in a state of outrage until there were attempts on his life. As they exited, Sharon had to restrain Steel in a scene that was breathtaking. But Xavier saw through this and as everything was going on, he placed a hand on Alycia's shoulder, leaning in and whispering in her ear in the chaos.

He indeed is the worst pig imaginable. And you know what? That is the point. She cannot defeat you in court, fair and square. So the Red Queen is using him to change the field of battle. Sun Tzu once wrote, "the expert in battle moves the enemy, and is not moved by him." If he can get us to resort to extralegal means then they can try to steal the battle on this front. However...

Xavier stops Alycia for a moment, looking into her eyes, not caring if anyone saw. This was important as a teammate and as a man for him to say.

YOU are the expert. This is your battlefield. You were named Charope by a daughter of gods and brilliantly reborn for THIS battle. There are people here who can do what you cannot. But in this battle, no one, not any of us, can do what I know you can. GO. WIN. Force our enemy to abandon this field of battle and when they do, WE will be prepared to win the war.

Xavier's eyes were intense and hard. He was no trifle. In fact, he was raised traveling the world with his father to dangerous places, and had seen amazing and terrible things back then and in times since. He was prepared to do whatever needed to be done and he conveyed that with a look at Alycia. Zach would feel his resolve and Rae would be reminded why she felt about him the way she did.

 

[Steel]

Witness Waiting Room

He could vaguely hear people shouting behind him, but he didn't register the words. All his focus was on that manky muppet in front of him and smashing his head into a pulp. He would get Nedry out of Rose's hair once and for all.

He was about to push the bailiffs out of the way, making a path to Nedry's throat, when SHARON was suddenly in front of him.

"Out of my way, pretty bird! He's MINE."

But she had him, was holding him back. He struggled against her.

"LET ME GO!"

HOLD.

He felt the power in her voice, and his eyes finally left Nedry and focused on her.

You helped me in Charope's Infirmary. Let ME help YOU now. I KNOW what you want... This isn't the first time I've witnessed him in action. He's BENEATH contempt!

He was still seething, and his eyes looked around her for Nedry, trying to focus again on his target. Her hands were on the sides of his face now, and his eyes shifted again, erratically looking at her and then trying to see around her.

"He's a MONSTER! He doesn't deserve to CONTINUE BREATHING!"

He tried to push around her again, but she held him firm.

But NOT now. We CAN'T Steel, NOT right now! You're NOT sparing him, you're helping Alycia and Rose!

His breath was rapid with his fury.

"The best way to help them is to STOP HIS HEART!"

Her eyes were finding his, forcing him to look into hers.

Let ALYCIA do her work, and DESTROY him...and THEN? Well, it's as Oracle said....EVERYONE eventually gets what they DESERVE.

He looked into her eyes, saying nothing, his chest heaving up and down. But he could feel his anger lessening, his breathing slowing.

"Sharon..."

He bowed his hand, finally giving in to her, not fighting her anymore. This time when he spoke, his voice was calm, but his meaning clear.

"He's not going to hurt any more children."

He met Sharon's eyes once again.

"When Jake is safe, when Rose is safe. One way or another, he'll never hurt anyone again."

 

[Valkyrie]

Witness Waiting Room

Zachary...Haleigh is NOT worth it! She doesn't deserve this level of loyalty from you, not after all she's done! Just...LET ROSE HAVE HER. It would save us ALL alot of trouble, and the WORLD would be better off without her! Don't you see?

For once, Ashley couldn't argue with Sharon's logic. But she knew that Zach would never see it that way, that he would always try, if he could. And she coudln't ask him to change - that was what made him Zach. She found the strength to get up and shakily go to comfort him. Zach turned around to face her and wrapped her into a hug, asking her if she was alright. His hand gently lifted her face so he could look into it, and she nodded.

"I'm fine."

She kept her arms around his waist, allowing his strength to bolster her own. In truth, she wasn't entirely sure she was okay, but Zach didn't need to know that. Alycia walked in - wonderful, as if ENOUGH people hadn't seen her like this. And then that little fucker they had all been talking about - Nedry - showed up, and she could see Zach's anger growing. Sharon stepped in to protect Alycia and Rose - of course. Where had she been when Rose was about to tear Zach apart? And John was getting in Nedry's face for the things he was saying. Sure. Everyone wanted to protect Alycia.

I'm SORRY. That the bus only held 22.

Bad move, dickweed.

"Oh, John is going to CRUSH that motherfucker. Watch."

And sure enough, John leapt after Nedry. Zach called on Sharon and she got in front of him, keeping him from getting his hands on Nedry. Zach raised his hand, and she could tell he was doing something, but she didn't know what. Sharon was talking John down, which was kind of a pity, because even Ashley thought that shithead needed killing. Hell, she'd do it herself, and she KNEW Rich was down - and since when did she and Isis' lackey agree on anything?

Zach's hand was shaking, and she rubbed his back. John was calming down, and she guessed that was due to Zach's influence. Although she felt like two NYPD detectives and a UN ambassador's word would stand up in any court with respect to a dead pervert, it was probably just as well they didn't all have to go through the paperwork.

It seemed like they were all going to the courtroom to watch Alycia try to save the day. Well, at least that meant she could sit down.

 

[Seer]

Family Court Room

<< Soon, everyone was entering the courtroom, passing the two sound blocked attorney rooms that winged the entrance hall into family court.>>

<< Inside one of those rooms was Isis, holding Jake, whom she had calmed, soothed, and sang to sleep, in her arms She conjured a blanket to cover him in the cool room, and kept him comfortable.>>

<< Isis was physically stronger than a base line human, and even certain mutants as well, and so, carrying the boy was no burden to her. >>

<< the peace and tranquility was short lived, as Nedry and the baliffs arrived, and another confrontation ensues, with him trying to take Jake from Isis, and the sorceress refrusing, and taking a very intimidating posture with Nedry and the baliffs.>>

Isis: I have been here before, with men like you, and your pathetic little games and TOYS.

<< a reference to the purifiers, and also the police, when Valkyrie brought her in for questioning>

Isis: Do you REALLY think I fear you? YOU should be in fear of ME!

<< And as the goddess raised her hand, about to cast an energy matrix, when Alycia entered the room, and called for Isis to hold.>>

<< A few moments later, Alycia enters the courtroom, and to the defendant's table, to sit with Rose. Everyone was settling into their seats, and they soon began to notice some irregularities in the courtroom.>>

<< Vivica took a moment to explain to Oracle what she and Tachyon had seen earlier.>>

<< Alycia turns around to whisper to Oracle, as the assembled group saw Dominique setting on the plantiff's side of the courtroom and began wondering what was going on. Dominique sat further to the back, with Jake laying in her arms/lap and covered. >>

Alycia: I convinced them to let Jake remain with Dominique for the time being. She had him calm, and resting comfortably. Thankfully, SHE was in the mood to let me do the talking. She was about to cast a spell on them!

<< and with that, the courtroom began to quiet. The judge would emerging shortly, and Vivica kept her eyes fixed on the door to the judge's chambers...wondering if her fears were about to be confirmed!>>

 

[Matrix]

Isis: I have been here before, with men like you, and your pathetic little games and TOYS.

<< a reference to the purifiers, and also the police, when Valkyrie brought her in for questioning>

Isis: Do you REALLY think I fear you? YOU should be in fear of ME!

I shot up and looked around. How long did these guys let me sleep?! Was that just a dream I had? I lay the sleeping kids down and sent a thought out.

You good Miss D? I can be there in one minute. Holla back.

I wish they would be somebody messing with Miss D..

 

[Talisman]

< Sitting in The Black Queen's Chamber of Shadows, Talisman sat at her antique desk chair, tapping her nails on the desk in front of her, as she watched the scene at the courthouse unfold via her "Omni-Sight". A wicked grin crept across her lips. >

< Upon learning of Helena's plan, Kelly couldn't help but want to help, or at the very least have a little fun. It hadn't been long since Dr. Shaw had last seen the Birds of Prey, but she had undergone a brilliant transformation, and she was itching to remind them that there would be hell to pay for stopping her from destroying Karen Victoria. >

< Using her powers as a techno sorceress she was able to ensure the courtroom and surrounding area were protected from Danny Donnelly's little tricks and as everyone gathered to start the hearing, it was time for Kelly to special guest star. Shimmering from her own chambers, she reappeared just outside the courtroom, igniting a simple glamorizing spell that Helena fortified with her own reality warping abilities. She eyed her reflection in the glass display case outside, satisfied. She might have been playing somebody else, but she was still going to be hot. Her glamour was different enough to not immediately be able to detect her, but similar enough that it might put the others, especially Vivica on edge, and that was significant to her in this moment. >

< Vivica was a deep tie to Cameron and as she watched their relationship deteriorate, she began to realize that if she couldn't manipulate Cameron in the way she intended, she could most certainly use Vivica against him. Not only that, there was a piece of technology inside Vivica's head that was very valuable. She might have thought herself safe from HALEIGH'S power, but Kelly was uniquely qualified to take control of her brain, and either DETONATE it..or use the information contained in it to suit her agenda. >

< Her black stilettos showed barely underneath her judge's robe as she entered the courtroom with a regal and icy nature. >

Bailiff: "All rise. The honorable Judge Kimberly Shaw presiding."

< Talisman made her way over to the judges seat, making sure to lock eyes with Dominique as she went. This was the first time she had come face to face with the FORMER (and less attractive) Black Queen. But it would not be the last. Not in the slightest. She was determined to get the woman so against the perversion of nature's hand VERY dirty. But that would come later. She crossed her legs and leaned back. >

"You may be seated."

< Looking at them all like the fox in the henhouse she was, she exhaled for a moment and began. >

"Mr. Nedry! Always a pleasure. Please tell me, what brings us to this emergency session today?"

< She looked Rose up and down, and did the same thing with Alycia. >

"I've got a GOLF game to attend."

 

[Isis]

Family Court Room

:: Luckily for the rabble, they LISTENED to Alycia. ::

:: Inside the court room, Dominique seated herself near the back. But she was required to sit on the plantiff's side. By no means did she suppport Nedry, but as the boy was technically in his custody, she had to make this concession in order to keep Jake in her care for as long as possible. ::

:: She settled in, and made sure Jake was comfortable.::

You good Miss D? I can be there in one minute. Holla back.

I wish they would be somebody messing with Miss D..

I am fine, Richard.

:: She replied as she looked down at Jake.::

There was a moment of confusion...on the party of Nedry and his...baliffs. but Alycia has handled it. The judge is coming. I'll be in contact with you after Alycia has brought Nedry's efforts to a halt. Stay alert, and safe, my knight.

:: And with that, Dominique looked over to where the judge was expected to enter. She recalled what Recall had shared with her.... "K. SHAW."::

:: Thinking to herself::

Would she be so SLOPPY as to try a stunt like this?

:: But then again, the Hellfire Club had DEEP pockets and avenues of connection and influence. It was how she was able to humiliate Valkyrie and Steel when they tried to detain her. Who's to say that them infesting the court like this was NOT possible?::

Bailiff: "All Rose. The honorable Judge Kimberly Shaw presiding."

< Talisman made her way over to the judges seat, making sure to lock eyes with Dominique as she went. This was the first time she had come face to face with the FORMER (and less attractive) Black Queen. But it would not be the last. Not in the slightest. She was determined to get the woman so against the perversion of nature's hand VERY dirty. But that would come later. She crossed her legs and leaned back. >

"You may be seated."

< Looking at them all like the fox in the henhouse she was, she exhaled for a moment and began. >

"Mr. Nedry! Always a pleasure. Please tell me, what brings us to this emergency session today?"

< She looked Rose up and down, and did the same thing with Alycia. >

"I've got a GOLF game to attend."

:: Dominique narrowed her aqua blue eyes as the judge looked at HER intently, as if she KNEW her, or had business with HER?::

Kimberly Shaw.

:: She seemed to be familiar, and FRIENDLY with Nedry. That was not a good sign, NOR was not so subtle comment about a GOLF game to Alycia.::


:: She watched the woman carefully, as Jake rested on her lap::

 

[Dennis Nedry]

And now the lemmings were at the edge of the cliff. Dennis was sweating with anticipation and stole a glance at Alycia's ass as they stood for the Judge to enter. She saw him looking and he mouthed clearly to her.

SO hot.

"You may be seated."

< Looking at them all like the fox in the henhouse she was, she exhaled for a moment and began. >

"Mr. Nedry! Always a pleasure. Please tell me, what brings us to this emergency session today?"

< She looked Rose up and down, and did the same thing with Alycia. >

"I've got a GOLF game to attend."

I know, your honor, and I would normally not dream of interrupting your work on your driver, but we have an emergency neglect, abuse, and a request that not only the child 'Jake' be removed from the facility but that the facility be closed and the remaining children be remanded to my care for placement in the interim until permanent resting places can be found for them.

Rose, with her accomplice Alycia Barnett as counsel, have endeavored to interrupt my investigation into this dwelling where half of the children placed there have died in the last year. In the course of my investigations, I have been repeatedly assaulted, harassed, the children were not made available to me as required by court order, instead having been tossed into a dungeon posing as a panic room.

In order to limit my investigations her random house guests have assaulted me with arcane powers and attempted to ply me with song and the promise of sex in order to cease and desist my duties to New York County and this court. You have the evidence submitted for this case and I request that any item not centrally pertaining to these children be suppressed by Miss Barnett who will likely try to sully my reputation as an employee of the county and state in order to muddy the malfeasance of her client. I would urge the court to focus on the children, as I have. Their final dispositions are foremost in my mind.

With that, Dennis Nedry was seated. He may be for sale, but that did not mean he did not have value.

 

[Oracle]

The Courtoom

Sharon had managed to prevent Steel from attacking Nedry, and they moved into the courtroom proper. Oracle was seated behind Alycia, with Vivica next to her.

Viv began telling her about what she and Tachyon had seen earlier, and Oracle nodded, whispering to her.

"I was watching the feed - very interesting. Steel also noted that things are not as they should be here. Keep your eyes open."

Oracle opened a com channel to the team, speaking in a low voice.

[via com] "We are definitely not in friendly territory here - everyone, be ready."

Zizi noticed the others were looking at something, and she turned her head to see Dominique sitting on the other side of the courtroom. She must have looked puzzled, because Alycia turned around and explained.

I convinced them to let Jake remain with Dominique for the time being. She had him calm, and resting comfortably. Thankfully, SHE was in the mood to let me do the talking. She was about to cast a spell on them!

"That would NOT have been good, but I'm thankful Jake at least has a friendly face with him."

Zizi's eyes raised as the judge entered the courtroom, and allowed Nedry to make his opening statement, full of lies and fluff. But Zizi was confident that Alycia would blow him out of the water.

 

[Artemis]

Family Court

:: Judge Kimberly...Shaw? Alycia did not recall any Kimberly Shaw on the bench in all her years, but the woman could have transferred, such things were possible.::

:: But It was also a source of concern that she seemed familiar, FRIENDLY even, with Dennis Nedry.::

:: His opening statements were a pack of LIES and distortions, and to watch him put on such a POLITE facade...it was all Alycia could do to not LAUGH in the court room!::

:: She maintained her professional decorum, and let him finish. And soon, it's her turn, and she stood::

Good afternoon, your honor.

:: she begins::

I have submitted my motion to immediately halt this emergency hearing. Mr. Nedry had insuffient evidence, or ground to initiate such a proceeding, and did not follow due process at any step of the way.

Mr. Nedry's allegations that my client or her guests "attacked" him, are false, and the fact that he did not file any official report about this alleged attack further lends itself to that. My client, Miss Rose, has been cleared of any possible wrong doing with regard to these allegations.

Furthermore, your honor, due to the nature of this hearing, it is imperative that the court be sure that the public servant bringing these charges not only has grounds, but also has the credentials and record of ethics in order to best represent the child or children he believes are in danger.

Mr. Nedry's conduct during his harrassing of my client cannot be ignored or suppressed, per the statute of New York Social Services code 43, if sufficient substantial evidence can be shown to give just cause to examine the record of the CFS worker, that evidence MUST be examined and weighed, and any active cases this CFS worker is handling, MUST be reviewed by an ethics panel.

Examination of Mr. Nedry's previous cases that were in his care, shows a progressive, and increasingly disturbing pattern of negligence, and willful abuse of his state sanctioned powers, resulting in over a dozen missing person's resports filed regarding children that became "unaccounted for" between transfer from his care to their intended destination.

The packet of evidence that I have submitted today will show a clear and direct link, your honor, and you will no doubt see that an immediate halt to this hearing and any other case that Nedry has been assigned to is warranted.

Because of the manner in which Mr. Nedry conducted the forced removal of Jake from Rose's home, which meets ALL the local and state requirements of a certified orphanage with ambulatory clinical care capacity, he did not allow my client and the child in her care due process, including the option of placing the child in a safe house, during the investigation, in order to minimize the trauma. Due to the nature of Jake O'Brien's needs, he cannot be placed in just any foster home, and because of his status under a protected class, as defined by the "mutant rights act" ( a piece of legislation that was drafted by Senator Sharon Kelly!) that was a REQUIREMENT, that Mr. Nedry completely ignored.

I also have submitted an emergency petition to place Jake at a safe house, for the time being, until this case can be reassigned to a CFS worker that meets ethical standards, and can clear a state background check. That safe place is with Zachary Armani, your honor, who is present today.

:: She gestures to Zach, who is SURPRISED, but stands up::

Mr. Armani meets and EXCEEDS the New York Child Family Services requirements, and presents with EXCELLENT credentials, as a United Nations Ambassador, and he is uniquely qualified to care for a child with Jake's special needs.

:: to the shock of everyone, Rose does not object. She sits, elegantly posted, looking serene::

Your honor, the court must act to reign in Mr. Nedry's careless and abusive behavior, in order to ensure the safety and well being of Jake O'Brian, and any other child that might :: she AVOIDED saying "HAVE THE MISFORTUNE OF:: come across Mr. Nedry's case load.

Placing Jake in the temporary care and custody of Zachary Armani, a well respected citizen with strong ties to this community, as well as a clearely documented history with Jake O'Brien is in the child's best interest, while this court, and the external ethics panel reviews Mr. Nedry's conduct.

:: The Birds of Prey would no doubt be shocked, but Charope, once again, came out with both barrels blasting. All that was left now as for the judge to even just PERUSE the evidence submitted, all put together in a clear, well organized, IRON CLAD manner, and this emergency hearing would be quashed, Jake would be safe with Zach while the ROOT of this investigation in the first place was discovered, and Nedry would soon be out of a job, and behind BARS!::

:: She looked at Rose for a moment. She KNEW that Rose was heartsick, but when she hugged Rose in the waiting room, she whispered in her ear that she would have to TRUST HER to see her way through this, and Rose agreed. And there WERE stipulations in place. Rose would have visitation, and Zach would have to agree to REGULAR home inspections as well as an investigation of ANYONE that spent more than "visiting hours" in that home. This would INCLUDE Ashley Oldenburg. He could not take the child anywhere without clearing it with Alycia and an appointed overseer from CFS, and once this matter was completely resolved, Jake would be returned to Rose. ::

 

[Talisman]

Family Court

< Alycia Barnett was an impressive enough woman. She was well spoken and prepared. But of course the amazon called "brilliant confrontation" would be. The only problem today was that Alycia didn't realize the odds were NOT in her favor, her clever words would NOT persuade and she would NOT be victorious...and Talisman couldn't wait to see both her AND Rose's faces when they realized that this was not going to go their way. >

"Not so fast, bitch."

< She received the packet from Alycia and began to look over it. This was information that she most CERTAINLY shouldn't have had, and information that most DEFINITELY had come from inside of the Hellfire Club. Somebody was a mole. And that would dealt with sooner rather than later. Talisman tapped her fingers on the desk before she shot a somewhat unimpressed and dissappointed look Alycia's way. Talisman was no lawyer, but she was most certainly educated and quick on her feet, and now she was about to test her improv skills. >

"Nedry's record within the system is particularly stellar. The section of that code refers implicitly to the professional record of the CFS worker. A record of his work within that system has been provided to me, Miss Barnett, and my preliminary findings show that in a professional setting, Nedry has a proven track record of DEDICATED civil service. Nothing I see in the packet YOU'VE provided show any record of any ethical reprimands or disciplinary action taken against Nedry in his PROFESSIONAL career, which again is the basis of the code you are providing in court today."

< Shaking her head. >

"I'm confused, Miss Barnett. Are we here to talk about the volitale environment in which several dozen children entrusted to your client are living, or are we here for a game of tit for tat? I'll be frank. When I realized who you were just now, I was prepared to hear a scathing and CONVINCING argument which explained each one of Mr. Nedry's claim. To my surprise, you've brought what you thought was a smoking gun into my courtroom. Unfortunately for you, it's clear that you came to this hearing with your weapon UNLOADED. Or rather..aimed at the wrong thing. It is not Mr. Nedry that is on trial here. It is NOT Mr. Nedry who is required to ANSWER any claims. It is your CLIENT."

< She plopped Alycia's smoking gun down on her counter top without so much as a second thought, and she enjoyed watching Alycia seethe. >

"Outside of that, these children may have been placed under her care, but they are NOT hers to do with how she sees fit. She is REQURED to operate under the authority of the COURTS and the DEPARTMENTS put in place to ensure the safety of all children within the foster care system. Perhaps you are too far removed from your days as a district attorney to remember the HORRORS that young and impressionable minds can experience within the system. Which is WHY I do not take these claims LIGHTLY. It is my DUTY as a judge, as well as Mr. Nedry, as a MANDATED reporter, to act on ANY suspicion of abuse and neglect, so that we can ensure safety for all parties involved."

"Your client has been in charge of these children for quite some time now, but in the last several months, TWENTY FOUR of them have perished while in her care. While there may have been an act of terror in the city during that time, when two dozen children DIE, it is our DUTY to seek answers. And now one has been SHOT. Do you REALLY believe Nedry's claims to be UNFOUNDED or not worthy of investigation or..IMPEDED because you don't like his attitude? The psychological effects this can have on the survivors of these types of tragedies..including the children and your client are endless. There is a NECESSITY for a closer eye to be held on Rose's orphanage. It is DUE DILLIGENCE. And from the information I've received, from what has been PROPERLY filed and documented, not...DUMPED on the table carelessly, as you did just now..it appears that your client is quite clearly suffering in some kind of way. At the very least, I cannot allow her to leave this facility without the reccommendation that she be placed on a 5150 hold so that we might BETTER be able to monitor her behavior and ensure that she is NO danger to herself or those that she has been entrusted by the courts to take care of. Her children will be placed under the care of Nedry and Child Protective Services."

< Talisman motioned for a bailiff to head over towards Isis who was still holding Jake, as if he was preparing to TAKE the child from Dominique's arms. >

"Unless you can give me actual concrete proof that these claims brought against her are unfounded and not TRUE..or would you like to try and get out of this on some silly "technicality"?"

< Smirking. >

"Because I can assure you, my patience wears thin for ANYBODY who tries to loophole the system in order to protect those who SHOULD be held accountable."

"Oh this is too good. I hope Helena and Diana are taping this."