A debutante ball for Blaze Victory

[Persephone]

A strange feeling of calmness washed over Ava as she stood by the bar along side Simon and Zach. It was like all the stress and tension left her body. It felt like she just had a full body massage, her muscles were so relaxed. Closing her eyes a moment, she just allowed the feeling to settle before casting her sight in Zach's direction.

"Nice move, Zach."

She stated flatly with a half smile. She knew it was his doing, and honestly it was probably a better option than being on the verge of commiting murder all evening.

Zach: "Heh...... I'm on your side too....."

Ava knew that was true. Zach and Ava's relationship went back awhile--even before he and Haleigh started dating. Zach helped her out with some rather rocky dealings with her citizenship back when her father was still alive and running Cassadine Enterprises. So she considered Zach a very good friend who just happened to be dating her sister.

"I know..."

Zach: "...do you think you could introduce me to Zeus?"

Scoffing out a short laugh, Ava rolled her eyes and gave Zach a nudge with her shoulder.

"Trust me...he's not worth your time."

Ava knew what Zach was trying to do, and she did appreciate it. Between his calming influence and the fact that he and Simon were being her wingmen, Ava was starting to feel less and less like decapitating Cass.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Moving forward

<< It had been w whirlwind weekend for all of them, not just Blaze. Tonight was meant to be the crown jewel closing event and Karen wanted it to go smoothly. With SIMON present, she wasn't certain that would be possible and all of the Six knew how cross Karen could be when events she planned were derailed because of some outside influence or disruption.>>

<< She and Sharon had spent quite a bit of time working with Cass, prepping her to become more integrated and connected to her PEERS and teammates on the Six. There were moments where they BOTH feared little progress or even REGRESSION was occurring, but with help from Nicolas, Cameron and more recently, Blaze and Alycia, Cass seemed to be improving by leaps and bounds. So naturally, Karen would always keep an eye on Cass and be concerned for her. SIMON, on the other hand, was someone Karen had seen in many walks of life through her years and in her office when she was still actively practicing as a psychotherapist. There was self centered....and then there was NARCISSISTIC. Karen felt that Simon squarely fit into the 2nd category and it pissed her off to NO END.>>

<< Nearly all of the people in this room meant something to Karen, even Haleigh . Vivica had an unknown quality about her, but thus far, had presented herself as a respectable, savvy young woman, the kind that Karen always approved of, just as long as she didn't make any moves on NICOLAS Oh what a MOMENT it would be for Karen when she found out that Vivica had no interest in Nicolas, but DEFINITELY had more than a passing interest in BLAZE!>>

<< Ava had said it the night before, and it was true. Karen was regarded as...and DID reflexively assume the role of Six Matriarch and she was happy to do so. Naturally, she did not suffer strangers and new comers who were too big for their britches lightly. Simon had NO idea that it was ONLY the strength of Karen's relationships with Cameron and Ava that kept him from being turned INTO ANY NUMBER of objects and/or ANIMALS over the past 24 hour period. His pedigree meant nothing to her. Having descended from bloodline of Hecate herself...she knew all the perks and downfalls of having a legacy family history.>>

<< The quality of a person's character, their core...THAT was what mattered to Karen. At some point, each member of the Six had managed to make a meaningful connection with Karen outside of her being Morgan's mother. Even Haleigh and She had come to a new place in their personal dynamic. They were ALL her "children" in one way or another...and any mother would be wary of a silver tongued devil of a man who had little in the way of regard or restraint.>>



<< She continued to eye Simon with a glare of CONTEMPT even as he referenced her in his response to an apparent rebuke by Cameron.>>

Arrogant wretch.

<< she said coldly>>

But aren't those the best ones to objectify?

<< Karen looked at Sally with an astonishment as the fashion maven was already trembling with laughter at her own outrageous remark. The doctor couldn't stay in a mood TOO LONG with her friend Sally around!>>


<<As the various interactions unfold, Karen and Sally stayed together, conversing with each other and watching the others around the room. Normally BOTH women were more interactive, especially Sally But Karen was feeling a bit off balance. She was quite agitated about Simon but Sally calmed her and lightened her mood, WITHOUT even being an empath! >>

<< Other things were bothering her as well, like Morgan's absence. Tonight of all nights, she should be here. So should Alison and Delilah. Delilah was more a stranger to Karen now than she'd ever been before and it was troubling. But there was no point in trying to hold on to someone...to "mother" them if they didn't want it. Most of the Six regarded Karen as a mother figure and she was happy to fullfill that role, but it was also understood that she didn't tolerate certain behaviors very well. >>

<<But for now, the doctor kept a calm face and continued forward. Sally squeezes Karen shoulder to encourage her and nods as Karen nods back and steps forward, making her way to the center of the lounge>>

<< She lifts up her hands, signaling the jazz band to taper off and cease playing and she begans to speak in her crystal clear, elegant tone of voice>>

Ladies and Gentleman?

I'd like to thank you all for coming tonight. Dinner is about to be served now, but with a twist!


If you'll all please gather around me in the form of a circle?

<< she looks around and beckons everyone forward and watches as they all form a circle around her.>>

Good!

Now then, we shall repair to the dining room!

<< Karen lifts her hands once more and they are now haloed in dark magick. Chimes sound off as she ignites a teleporting spell. a pentagram of mystic energy briefly flickers on the floor around the circled group, with Karen in the middle and suddenly, they are taken from where they are, to another place.

 

[Seer]

the evening progresses

<< Shadow Weaver surprises the group by using her magick to move them from one place to another. Of those present, only Cameron, Nicolas, Michael and Alycia knew EXACTLY where they were.>>

<< The space they were now in had a very dark and sultry atmosphere but it felt warm and intimate. The music was suitable to the environment and the ambience definitely resonated with Blaze, who was surprised and intrigued as to where they were now.>>

<< Karen remained coy as she directed everyone to be seated. There were place cards at each of the tables. Servers and waitstaff dressed in costumes with a slightly burlesque slant, attended the group and dinner was served, followed by desert and all the while, drinks flowed to anyone's heart's desire.>>

<< The service was perfectly timed and they wanted for nothing. The place had a feeling of "the best kept secret" in NYC! There was SOMETHING in the air that seemed familiar to certain members of the [mainstream] Six, but the pieces didn't quite fit. So even as they all enjoyed a lovely dinner and desert, the question on more than a few minds was..."WHERE WERE THEY!?" They would find out soon enough.>>

<< After dinner, came a short but NO LESS fun round of DANCING as the house dj spinned and weaved sounds and beats pleasing to their ears and catchy to their feet.>>

<< While the Six and their allies danced, The waitstaff cleared away the dishes and repositioned the tables to face the stage in an arrangement similar to what you might see at the golden globes. >>

<< More time passed and after a good round of dancing and laughter, and refreshed drinks, everyone is seated once more with no more than four to a table. Blaze was seated at the center most table closest to the front with Sally, Vivica and Cass at her table.>>

<< The live band had begun to play soft, smooth jazz music once more as everyone quietly conversed. Soon, a spotlight beams down on the stage as Karen emerges from behind the curtain and steps forward to look upon the group>>

 

[Shadow Weaver]

A special gift

<< Karen stands before everyone in her elegant outfit and looks upon the group, smiling.>>

That was quite nice.

And now we come to the heart of this evening.

I imagine by now you're wondering just where we've been for all this time....well that will become clear soon enough.

But right now, I want to begin by addressing our guest of honor.

<< She steps forward, posed and regal as ever. But her hands are noticeably hidden behind her back>>

Blaze, there are many things...many experiences that have come with being apart of or connected to the six that few in this world would dare to imagine, much less dream of.

Because of that, we are ALL very fortunate. But too often, we don't stop to think about that fortune, those gifts...those "2nd chance" we get that others would give ANYTHING for.

Blaze...though how you came to be here was a wild twist of circumstance...it was the best possible outcome. Not just for you, but for me, for Morgan...for ALL of us.

I....wasn't always very kind or supportive to your cross time alternate. That was my fault....my failure. Though I did nothing to DESERVE it, I received a precious second chance in your arrival.

We've talked about this before and you knew, even before I could bring myself to say it to you, that in the beginning of our relationship, I was often OVERcorrecting for my behavior toward Blaze and that I felt I was...."doing penance" for my mistreatment of her.

You were very kind and understanding about that and when I realized how much of a diservice I was doing you and reversed course, OUR relationship began to take on it's TRUE form.

<< She holds her hand out, beckoning Blaze to come up to join her. Her other hand remains behind her back and she makes sure to keep Blaze from seeing what's behind her back as she welcomes her to the stage.>>

Just as you've touched all of our hearts and helped bring back the passion and flare that had waned in the absence of your counterpart, that also fostered inspiration on more on the part of more than one person in this room.

You've shared with me what your family dynamic in your native timeline, and how unsettling it was to see you had no family bonds here out side of Morgan. Of course you realize that The SIX are your family and regard you as such...BUT I understood JUST what you meant. I felt it.

You, Morgan and myself...we are forever linked by one man [Christopher Victory]. I don't need to mention his name. His infamous memory is enough. But despite him...we are left with the gift of a family connection that crosses time and space. It's time that connection was cemented.

It's never too late to discover who you are. To know where you belong. To know that you're LOVED and when you know that you're loved, you don't need to roam.

Blaze, never again, will you have to wonder who you are...or who claims you.

<< brings forth the ADOPTION PAPERS that Alycia had assisted her with days earlier. She hands them to Blaze and gives Blaze a moment to scan and read over them. With each passing moment, the young fire elemental's eyes widen and a wide smile creeps over her face! Karen was relieved that this revelation was being met with HAPPINESS>>



As you see there, in those legal and binding documents, I Karen Victoria, the mother of your sister, Morgan Victoria, have adopted you, Blaze Victory. From now on, on all the ways that matter...you are my daughter in FACT as well as in spirit and I love you...very much.

<< And now, just as it had been in Blaze's time, in THIS right time, Karen has become Blaze's MOTHER, completing the family bond with Morgan.>>

<< Blaze wanted to rush into Karen's arms. Karen wanted to embrace her DAUGHTER, but there was one last important thing she had to give Blaze. She held up her hand, gently halting Blaze's approach even as she blinked away the "mist" in her eyes >>

There is one other thing.

Never again will you suffer the cruel scrutiny that Nigel Barker ambushed you with.

<< Sally can be heard agreeing with a rather LOUD and resolute "mmmHMMM" as she nods her head>>

As a member of the Six, as a mutant...there will be enough sources of question and danger waiting for you. Your IDENTITY shall not be one of them.

<< She beckons Blaze to come closer and takes one of the young mutant's hands into her own>>

This ring...

<< Karen begins as she brings forth a heart shapped, flawless red garnet jewel set on a ring made of the finest quality of gold>>

Was worn by your alternate. Even after she was lost, this exquisite piece of jewelry survived. It was imbued with a small piece of HER ESSENCE, which is why the jewel itself is shaped like a heart. That was what SHE was all about...the fire and passion of the heart. The same as you.

Sometime ago, I cast a spell on this ring, BINDING that small but distinct piece of Foxfire's essence to this ring so that whenever Morgan or anyone else touched it, they would sense...FEEL her and all that she was. It was meant to provide comfort in the face of such a painful, terrible loss.

But now, the time has come, to pass this to you. It's rightful owner. YOU are Blaze, now and forever. Wear this ring with certainty and pride, knowing that you now are bare and uphold the legacy of the Fire Elemental. Your POWERS are already on a scale far beyond that of your alternate, but ring will provide you with a source of strength when you find yourself in dire need.

But the most important thing about this ring?

To ensure that your identity is never the source of controversy or scrutiny again, as I place this ring on your finger, I will now cast one final spell...

<< she slips the ring on to Blaze's finguer and lifts her hands, gesturing and igniting magick once more>>


Hecate hear the call of your daughter.

Guide me as I bestow this gift upon Blaze on this night of the full moon.

<< Chimes sound off as Karen's vocal tone changes with a haunting resonance and her hands once again glow with dark magick>>

As she wears this ring, may security come to her

Misconceptions and suspicions are no more

Unhappiness and controversy shall leave her door

Let all others see her as she was...and IS

The one TRUE Blaze Victory!

<< the ring GLOWS BRIGHTLY as Karen circles her finger over it and then circles her hands over and in front of Blaze. A ring of mystic flames forms above Blaze's head and dark glowing orbs flow and swirl down about her form as her apple green eyes GLOW and she is TOUCHED by the remaining essence of her cross-time alternate and all at once, senses, FEELS Blaze Fielding and all that she was...all that she meant to the Six.>>

<< Karen's eyes glow as she takes Blaze's hands into her own and then pulls her into tight maternal hug while the dark glowing orbs swirl around them both.>>

Only WE in this room , along with Morgan, Alison and Delilah will ever know where Foxfire ended and Firebird began.

From this moment forward, you ARE the one, true Blaze for this world and you are now not only Morgan's sister, but also MY daughter.

WELCOME HOME.

<< Blaze is trembling, having truly FELT the touch of Karen's magick and also having been touched by "HERSELF". Tears flow down her face as Karen hugs her once more and gently rocks her back and forth. She sensed that Blaze was truly overwhelmed by the sudden RUSH of the spell and the sweeping touch of Foxfire's astral echo.>>

<< After a few moments, Blaze was settled as she stood back from Karen, holding the woman's hands in her own and gazing in her eyes>>

 

[Firebird]

Dreams do come true

It had been a long time since Blaze had truly let someone else "be in the driver's seat" when it came to what happened to her and her life. But ever since she agreed to trust Nicolas and Cameron two days ago? She'd been on the ride of her LIFE and it wasn't over! In many ways, tonight was the moment when the roller coaster had finally crested at the top of the hill and was now about to race over the edge! For some reason tonight, she felt a bit more subdued. Almost like she was finally "reforming" after being shattered more than once. It was an unusual feeling and it definitely tempered her usually BOLD presentation, but knew everything...every feeling had it's place and reason.

Karen had taken them some place that Blaze didn't immediately recognize but it felt special, like it was made JUST FOR HER tonight. The lighting, the colors, the intimacy and the ambience, they all resonated with her. The evening unfolded nicely with great food and fun dancing! She enjoyed moving among the group, dancing with the men AND the women at her leisure.

Soon, they were all seated once more and Karen, always the picture of grace and beauty, stood before them and was speaking. All through the evening, Blaze was wondering what exactly was going on...NOW she was about to find out.

Some people fantasize about rolling around in piles of money. They place so much importance on green scraps of paper. PAPER! But in this moment? The 8 1/2 x 11 sheets of white paper in her hands were more precious than ANY pile of money could be.

She blinked a few times as she heard Karen say these words

As you see there, in those legal and binding documents, I Karen Victoria, the mother of your sister, Morgan Victoria, have adopted you, Blaze Victory. From now on, on all the ways that matter...you are my daughter in FACT as well as in spirit and I love you...very much.

<< And now, just as it had been in Blaze's time, in THIS right time, Karen has become Blaze's MOTHER, completing the family bond with Morgan.>>

Blaze's mouth was open with shock. She couldn't get a sound out. But as her heart jumped , she began to smile even as she felt tears well up.

"you...."

<< Blaze wanted to rush into Karen's arms. Karen wanted to embrace her DAUGHTER, but there was one last important thing she had to give Blaze. She held up her hand, gently halting Blaze's approach even as she blinked away the "mist" in her eyes >>

Blaze didn't move. She was shaking a bit though. A RARE moment, to be at a loss for words and truly caught IN the moment...

Karen then brought forth a ring, a beautiful ring with shimmering exquisite gold and a sparkling red garnet jewel!

It's....it's the same kind of jewel that crown's Alison's Time Staff!

Blaze just KNEW there was more than a coincidence in that...

This ring...

<< Karen begins as she brings forth a heart shapped, flawless red garnet jewel set on a ring made of the finest quality of gold>>

Was worn by your alternate. Even after she was lost, this exquisite piece of jewelry survived. It was imbued with a small piece of HER ESSENCE, which is why the jewel itself is shaped like a heart. That was what SHE was all about...the fire and passion of the heart. The same as you.

Sometime ago, I cast a spell on this ring, BINDING that small but distinct piece of Foxfire's essence to this ring so that whenever Morgan or anyone else touched it, they would sense...FEEL her and all that she was. It was meant to provide comfort in the face of such a painful, terrible loss.

But now, the time has come, to pass this to you. It's rightful owner. YOU are Blaze, now and forever. Wear this ring with certainty and pride, knowing that you now are bare and uphold the legacy of the Fire Elemental. Your POWERS are already on a scale far beyond that of your alternate, but ring will provide you with a source of strength when you find yourself in dire need.

But the most important thing about this ring?

To ensure that your identity is never the source of controversy or scrutiny again, as I place this ring on your finger, I will now cast one final spell...

<< she slips the ring on to Blaze's finguer and lifts her hands, gesturing and igniting magick once more>>

The ring slips on to Blaze's slender finger and feels as if it were made just for HER! Her apple green eyes intensely study the ring and its beauty even as Karen continues. The witch's voice seems to change, drawing Blaze's attention back to her

Hecate hear the call of your daughter.

Guide me as I bestow this gift upon Blaze on this night of the full moon.

<< Chimes sound off as Karen's vocal tone changes with a haunting resonance and her hands once again glow with dark magick>>

As she wears this ring, may security come to her

Misconceptions and suspicions are no more

Unhappiness and controversy shall leave her door

Let all others see her as she was...and IS

The one TRUE Blaze Victory!

<< the ring GLOWS BRIGHTLY as Karen circles her finger over it and then circles her hands over and in front of Blaze. A ring of mystic flames forms above Blaze's head and dark glowing orbs flow and swirl down about her form as her apple green eyes GLOW and she is TOUCHED by the remaining essence of her cross-time alternate and all at once, senses, FEELS Blaze Fielding and all that she was...all that she meant to the Six.>>

Blaze's aurburn hair begins to flow as the rushing orbs flow around her. She feels the energy caressing her feminine form and then she feels herself caught up in a RAPTURE...a RUSH as she is touched by the astral echo of FOXFIRE. It SWEEPS over her, first feeling like the kiss of a gentle breeze then WOW like a wave of WIND! Some of the most PRIMAL moments of her life, that were mirrored in Firebird's OWN life, Blaze Victory now saw...FELT. Some of the moments she saw in the Siege Perilous as well as from Cameron's montage were revisited and then were were other private moments that only BLAZE herself held in her heart and mind, they passed from that ring into FIREBIRD.


and as the SPELL ran it's course....a curious thing happened. There was the faintest flicker of a form...a form not unlike Firebird's...that reached out, wrapping her arms around Firebird. There was a wild laugh and a sensation of a KISS on the cheek. Not from Karen, who was a few paces away. In that moment, Blaze had been truly touched by her alternate self's soul. She understood that Morgan, Karen, Cameron, Nicolas, Haleigh, Ava, Alycia and even Alison and Delilah had ALL helped to keep Blaze Fielding's essense alive, whole and connected. She lived on through them and now she was apart of HER. This ring was the focal point and Karen's spell allowed her to truly KNOW the person BEHIND the name and legacy that she was now taking as her own and carrying on.

Firebird's eyes had been closed but when they opened, they were GLOWING with the solid, sparkling color of elemental flame energy for a brief moment before returning to their normal intense apple green hue.

She shuddered and sighed at the same time.

<< Karen's eyes were glowing as she takes Blaze's hands into her own and then pulls her into tight maternal hug while the dark glowing orbs swirl around them both.>>

Only WE in this room , along with Morgan, Alison and Delilah will ever know where Foxfire ended and Firebird began.

From this moment forward, you ARE the one, true Blaze for this world and you are now not only Morgan's sister, but also MY daughter.

WELCOME HOME.

<< Blaze is trembling, having truly FELT the touch of Karen's magick and also having been touched by "HERSELF". >>

"I...."

<<Tears flow down her face as Karen hugs her once more and gently rocks her back and forth. She sensed that Blaze was truly overwhelmed by the sudden RUSH of the spell and the sweeping touch of Foxfire's astral echo.>>

<< After a few moments, Blaze was settled as she stood back from Karen, holding the woman's hands in her own and gazing in her eyes>>

"Thank you K..."

"Mom!"

<< Karen smiled with warm approval as Blaze uttered that word while the others looked on and clapped and cheered.>>

<< Karen and Blaze hug once more as they BOTH thank Foxfire for the foundation she laid and all that she was, for making any of this moment possible...and MORGAN, for her unwavering love, support and loyalty to her sister and her family!>>

 

[Ruby]

Starlight Lounge

:: Cass was talking with both Blaze and Vivica when Haleigh came over and YANKED her to one corner of the room. Suddenly she felt this inexplicable peace settle on her, but she didn’t know why. ::

Uh oh…

"You got brass balls, CJ. Good for you. But by chance, do you also have a death wish? Because that's what it looks like. Listen, you kill because you have to. I kill because I can. Ava kills for less reason than you just gave her, so maybe you wanna limit your comebacks to strictly verbal slaps from here on out? Just a little friendly advice."

:: Cass opened her mouth to reply but then felt a hand on her shoulder as Cameron came up to them. ::

"Those are true words if I ever heard them...

"Sorry, if it seemed like I was chastizing you a moment ago...I know you were just trying to have fun with Ava...lighten her up...but like Haleigh told you, that just doesn't happen...and [smirking to himself] I believe I did tell you...Ava hates you until she doesn't...I'm testimony to that...Ava wanted to skin me alive when we first met...now we're business partners..."

:: She turned to Haleigh. As she did so, Cameron handed her a fresh martini. ::

*sheepishly*: “It’s true; he DID tell me that.”

:: She took a sip of her drink. ::

"Sometimes...it just takes time...but Haleigh's right...people who don't wait...end up shot...or viciously torn apart by a wild cat...but even *I* have to give you kudos for ruffling Cassadine's feathers and how you handled it. Had this happened a few years ago? Well...there'd be a lot more blood on the walls, lines drawn in the sand...and probably an Ant Lion or two roaming around picking off the remains..."

“Just so you know, I would’ve NEVER done that if I didn’t think she could handle it…”

:: She spotted a look on Haleigh’s face. ::

“Okay, so I did cross the line. BUT, I wouldn’t have done it if I thought she wouldn’t get over it. I mean, if it were DELILAH…no. I wouldn’t have DARED to do that to HER. Not right now anyway…”

"Thankfully for the most part, we've moved on from that...."

:: Cass nodded and looked like she was going to say something but then Karen spoke loudly. ::

Ladies and Gentleman?

I'd like to thank you all for coming tonight. Dinner is about to be served now, but with a twist!

If you'll all please gather around me in the form of a circle?

<< she looks around and beckons everyone forward and watches as they all form a circle around her.>>

Good!

Now then, we shall repair to the dining room!

:: Before Cass knew what the hell was going on, she found herself in a different place altogether. The music was awesome, the vibe was electric and the surroundings…well for some reason it all totally reminded Cass of Blaze. But she didn’t know why. She didn’t know where she was either. Karen knew, though, but she didn’t let anybody else in on the secret as she directed everyone to tables with their names at each chair. Soon they were all sitting, drinking and eating delicious food and engaging in interesting discussions. Then came the dancing and Cass laughed. She grabbed BOTH Vivica and Blaze and hauled them out on the floor. ::

“Come on, beauties! Let’s show these freaks how to MOVE!”

:: The three of them danced wildly laughing the entire time, Blaze leaving them to go dance with everybody in sight. Cass had fun though. She LOVED to dance! Soon enough they were directed back to their seats. A spotlight came on and lit up Karen. Cass watched with interest as the Mother Figure to All spoke tender words to Blaze resulting in…presenting ADOPTION papers to the fire elemental! Cass gasped in amazement. ::

*happily*: “Oh BLAZE!”

:: Maybe it was being among friends or maybe it was the intimacy of the moment Karen told Blaze she was her DAUGHTER or maybe it was the fact that Cass, in that moment, really wanted to tell HER mama that she loved her but whatever it was, Cass was shedding happy tears and didn’t bother to brush them away. Karen gave Blaze a ring that was worn by FOXFIRE and THAT was a beautiful moment too. Cass clapped and cheered with everybody else. ::

Aww, I’m SO happy for Blaze!!

 

[Rampage]

Ava seemed to manage to relax, and he felt Zach's handiwork even as he saw Cass take a tumble. He could sense the psionic flow and who it was from...VERY interesting.

It was kind of a shit move, but DAMN it was funny. He and Mike stood there trying not to FALL OUT as Alycia scolded them both.

You're all heart. Truly.

:: she said with sarcasm as she eyed Michael, who was also snickering::

Nice of you to show your concern there.

What do you want me to do? Cass has to make her own way, make her own mistakes, and that is one of them. No harm done, so she will be fine.

They all moved on as Karen took center stage, teleporting them to the special place!

Nicolas looked around, proud of what could happen on relatively short notice. He stood solemnly as Karen presented Blaze with the adoption papers. He sent out a short thought to Alycia.

Thanks SO much Charope...you came through.

Next she presented her with Foxfire's ring, and cast a spell binding the essence inside to Firebird. Nicolas sense the astral form embrace the elemental before uniting with her, and he nodded solemnly as everyone clapped and cheered.

He slowly made his way up, hugging Blaze and then Karen, then taking Karen's hand and giving it to Mike, who took her side. He grabbed both of Blaze's hands and began to speak.

I could not be more happy to see you enjoy what we have tried to show you...what we have tried to give you from our hearts. But we are not QUITE done. Look around.

Nicolas gestures around with his right hand and then looks back to Blaze, who is entranced by the beauty of the place but puzzled at the request.

This club was once owned by Foxfire. It was her baby and at one time one of the hottest clubs in the country. It is only fair that it now become YOURS.

Nicolas takes out the papers of ownership and hands them to her.

Based on the idea for the club in Paris you are involved with in concert with Cameron, we had this place re-done. It is state of the art, with the finest staff and security and with a light and sound complement unparalleled on the East Coast. I hope you like it.

Nicolas hugged her and then stepped back, clapping as she jumped for joy. No way was he getting in the way of THAT!

 

[Black Widow]

Cameron: Those are true words if I ever heard them...

He handed her a glass of wine and their hands touched. She successfully pretended not to notice the way her skin tingle afterward as he backed her statement with Cass.

Cass (sheepishly): It’s true; he DID tell me that.

"Well what the fuck."

Cameron: Sometimes...it just takes time...but Haleigh's right...people who don't wait...end up shot...or viciously torn apart by a wild cat...but even *I* have to give you kudos for ruffling Cassadine's feathers and how you handled it. Had this happened a few years ago? Well...there'd be a lot more blood on the walls, lines drawn in the sand...and probably an Ant Lion or two roaming around picking off the remains...

Haleigh locked eyes with Cameron as a wave of nostalgia passed over her. She laughed, thinking of the circumstances that brought them together.

"Yeah, back then if you looked at the wrong person sideways, it launched a literal death match.... OR the inferno!"

Cass: Just so you know, I would’ve NEVER done that if I didn’t think she could handle it…

Haleigh's expression was unmistakably saying 'don't fucking play.'

Cass: Okay, so I did cross the line. BUT, I wouldn’t have done it if I thought she wouldn’t get over it. I mean, if it were DELILAH…no. I wouldn’t have DARED to do that to HER. Not right now anyway…

"Then you'd better add Ava to the list of people who won't get over it. Trust me, I know my sister."

Karen: Ladies and Gentleman? I'd like to thank you all for coming tonight. Dinner is about to be served now, but with a twist! If you'll all please gather around me in the form of a circle? Good! Now then, we shall repair to the dining room!

They were transported somewhere else. Haleigh hoped Cameron had briefed the staff of the Starlight Lounge ahead of time. They say down to dinner, but Karen had more up her sleeves. She presented Blaze with adoption papers.

Karen: You, Morgan and myself...we are forever linked by one man [Christopher Victory]. I don't need to mention his name. His infamous memory is enough. But despite him...we are left with the gift of a family connection that crosses time and space. It's time that connection was cemented.

Christopher Victory. The maniac MysTech doctor that helped Adam Chandler plague Haleigh's life. Haleigh didn't know which man was worse, Christopher or Adam..... all she knew was that they were equally responsible for her..... condition. They had conspired to infect her with the T.O. virus. Thinking about it made her want to resurrect them both so she could kill them again. She hated that they had infected her against her will. It was an example of a rare time when Haleigh was actually victimized..... a moment when she wasn't in control..... and the ramifications of that moment would be felt for the rest of her existence.

Dinner went on without any major disasters. There was some dancing, as well, but Haleigh sat with Zach at the table. He was feeling quite friendly, and she wasn't sure if it was the wine, or the fact that everyone in the room was finally in a decent mood and he was feeling a buzz from that.

Whatever it was, it was inspiring him to slide his hand up the inside of her thigh. Lucky that the tabletop concealed it. He slipped under the hem of her dress and Haleigh reactively kicked out under the table, accidentally clipping somebody's shin HARD.

"Ahem, sorry!"

Nicolas presented Blaze with the ownership papers to the club they were in, and Blaze was overjoyed. Haleigh joined the others in clapping for her, then absolutely HAD to seize Zach by the wrist and halt his handiwork. Too much more of that and she'd need to be excused.

"So, this has all been quite wonderful..... are we going to be having MY welcome home celebrations next weekend?"

She joked.

 

[Artemis]

Presenting XS

:: Alycia could conceed that that Vivica had legitimate ties to the Six. That was one reason why she didn't do MORE this weekend upon seeing her again. She COULD have done MUCH more, up to and including getting physical, but behaving in such a way right now, with no real just cause would have been beneath her, not to mention disrespectful to Blaze and even Cameron. Alycia despised her, but her friends' happiness was more important than her own immediate gratification.::

:: SIMON on the other hand? She had YET to see the point of HIM. All he was, was Ava's boytoy. The fact that he was ALSO her subordinate in the business world and Cameron's business associate was more a tragic circumstance than anything else because that meant he'd be "around" more often than not. She empathized with Karen over her immediate displeasure with him but she knew that Cameron wouldn't knowingly unleash a stranger on the Six who was a threat or danger [he'd obviously learned PLENTY from the "Rachel Gray"/Kelly King disaster ] and risk destroying his own standing and credibility among the team, nor would Ava allow him to overstep his bounds.::

:: Ava and Alycia. They had a rocky road through recent years but one thing both women had for each other was RESPECT. They'd each earned that in the other's eyes. Simon on the other hand? Until he showed he was deserving of her respect, he wasn't getting it. She'd ask Cameron about him later, privately. She knew Cameron would be honest with her about him and satisfying her appetite for information was one way to cause her to change your view of something or someone.::

:: At the moment though, there was plenty else to enjoy, namely Karen teleporting them to special, curious place. Alycia had been here before...many times over the passing years. But the FIRST TIME was the most memorable...bittersweet. .

::FLASH::

<< 6 years ago. This same place, but a vastly different space. In the aftermath of Blaze Fielding, a.k.a. FOXFIRE'S death. Spellbinder, Shockwave, Guardian (Before she became Harbinger), Black Widow and Prophet were here, along with MorningStar, who'd only just recently OFFICIALLY joined the Six at that time. A huge "Fash Bash" was underway to celebrate Blaze's memory and mark the passing of ownership of her club to her sister, Morgan. One of the VIP guests, in the suite with the Six was the woman who fast tracked the execution of Blaze's WILL. Alycia Barnett, legal counsel to Morgan and Karen and now a fast growing ally of the Six.>>

<< Together they sat in the VIP suite, talking in the moments before the official show would begin.>>

:: Alison continued to enjoy herself and company in the luxe suite, looking over at Alycia as the high powered attourney spoke::

Well, Alycia...there's going to be a mini fashion show featuring some remixes of Madonna's latest songs , some dancers and models. lots of bling, lots of flash and pizazz. Diddy is the master of ceremony and Madonna will join him on stage....it all culminates in Morgan addressing everyone and announcing that the club has been RE OPENED in honor of Blaze and that all proceeds from this evening as well as large amounts of "donations" from various sponsors will be given to Blaze's favorite charity and social causes.

:: sipping on her champaign as she runs her hand down Diddy's leg..and HE in turn squeezes her a bit close::

its a way for Morgan to honor her sister and insure that this club carries on her memory. but this wouldnt have been possible if you hadnt "fast forwarded" the executing of Blaze's will Alycia...i hope you know you much you mean to Morgan..to ALL of us.

:: even as Alison spoke...her mind's "eye" was on Alexis..who had just made contact with Haleigh and wisely pulled her OUT of the room to confront her. if Frost made ANY moves, Alison would know it before even FROST did herself.....sensing that Delilah was falling under scrutiny, Alison slowly rose::

Lets all rejoin the crowd..the music is getting stronger by the second and i think we need to mix and mingle!

::her own subtle way of moving everyone down stairs so that she and morgan could be closer to delilah AND alexis::

::Alycia smiled and nodded as Alison explained..leaning back. resting her hand on her chest. clearly the champaign had helped HER to loosen up a bit....and her body language showed it...as well as her sexy outfit and high heels::

Oh Alison...it was my pleasure. Blaze was a good kid, I ....I know how hard her death has been on Morgan and all of you so I wanted to do what I could...to help things along with the business of her estate. Seeing as how she had no other REPUTABLE family close at hand save Morgan. Besides...what are friends FOR?

::winking as she raised her glass along with Alison, Diddy, Madonna and Boris...they all toasted Blaze. MORGAN had gone to the parlour room for a moment::

Allright...

::standing up with everyone.::

Ill see you all after the show. Ive got a few corporate types I've got mingle with.

::hugging Ali, kissing diddy and boris both on the cheek Alycia slipped away::

:: That was also the night she first met JASMINE, Blaze and Morgan's OTHER half sister, the water elemental, who would eventually pass through the Siege Perilous after Morgan had been pulled through the gem by Master Mold.::

:: So many memories, even now, while the place looked SO DIFFERENT thanks to Nicolas hiring the best planners, designers and contractors money could by.::

:: She sensed that some of the others wondered just where they were. Karen remained coy and Alycia stole a quick but knowing glance at Nicolas and Cameron as they were all seated and enjoyed a lovely meal and some fun (but decidedly LESS sexually charged than the night before) dancing!::

:: Eventually they were all seated again after the tables had been rearranged and Karen addressed them all, calling Blaze Victory to the stage. ::

:: Even though Cameron, Alycia, Nicolas and Michael all knew what was coming, it made the moment no less exciting or touching to watch. Karen showed them all why she WAS widely regarded as the Six's matriarch. Beneath that sterling, stern and pristine exterior, there was a woman of warmth, kindness and strong maternal instinct. She cared not only for her daughter Morgan, but all of her surrogates without tiring and without ever begrudging them.::

:: Alycia reflexively gripped Cameron's hand as Karen gave Blaze the legal adoption papers and declared then and there that Blaze was now her DAUGHTER in fact as well as in spirit. The surprise and emotional happiness in Blaze's face said it all. Karen too, looked quite moved by the moment.::

:: Karen then gave her the most unique gift of all, bringing forth a beautiful garnet jeweled ring that Blaze Fielding had worn. She placed it on Firebird's ring finger and then cast a spell, binding the essence of the original Blaze in that ring WITH Firebird! THIS was an example of why MAGICK was such a wonderous thing!::

:: There was a BRIEF moment when Alycia sensed...FELT and even SAW the brief, flickering astral form of the ORIGINAL Blaze, hearing her laughter. Alycia was now misty eyed as she recalled Blaze and their personal interactions but very happy that Blaze Victory, at long last, found what she'd been missing. ALL the pieces of herself. ::

:: Karen's spell ensured that there'd never be another Nigel Barker ambush on Blaze regarding just who she was and only those in this place would know her exact origins. The Six and their allies, including Sally Spectra, knew that this was something that was NOT to be shared, but could Vivica...could SIMON be trusted!? ::

:: Cameron would sense Alycia's flash of genuine concern about THAT even as Karen completed the final touches on her special gift to Blaze Victory.::

:: Everyone stood up, clapping with joy and cheer for them as Mother and DAUGHTER embraced.::

:: Nicolas soon joined them, along with Michael and ALYCIA herself. Soon, Karen was standing with Michael by her side. The two were holding hands as Nicolas now held both of Blaze's hands in his. Alycia was at their "12 o'clock" position, looking on with a genuine smile as Nicolas spoke::

I could not be more happy to see you enjoy what we have tried to show you...what we have tried to give you from our hearts. But we are not QUITE done. Look around.

Nicolas gestures around with his right hand and then looks back to Blaze, who is entranced by the beauty of the place but puzzled at the request.

This club was once owned by Foxfire. It was her baby and at one time one of the hottest clubs in the country. It is only fair that it now become YOURS.

Nicolas takes out the papers of ownership and hands them to her.

:: Alycia nods in agreement and affirmation of Nicolas' revelation as Blaze seemed taken aback, looking at him, then her then back to Karen and Michael::

He's right, Blaze.

:: She said with warmth in her tone of voice::

This space that we're in? This is THE ORIGINAL XS, that was owned by Blaze Fielding. When we lost her, I fast tracked the execution of her will so that ownership of the club would pass to Morgan. Alison advised Morgan NOT to place the club under lllustra's umbrella at that time. No one knew or understood why...not even me. BUT Morgan, like the rest of us, trusted Alison and because of that...when The Six and their allies were OUTED by Bishop, XS, along with the Parthenon were among the few major holdings of any Six member that were NOT lost in the explosive fall out.

There is no better time to have opened it's doors, to have completely revamped it...than now. A nice time, a new place and space and it's all for you.

:: She gestures to the deed of ownership and other legal documents Nicolas has handed to Blaze::

I personally saw to it that these are iron clad. This place is YOURS outright. You'll never have it taken from you.

:: She nodded with certainty::

Based on the idea for the club in Paris you are involved with in concert with Cameron, we had this place re-done. It is state of the art, with the finest staff and security and with a light and sound complement unparalleled on the East Coast.

Floor plans with all the other rooms, spaces and amenities designed into the club are included in the document packet you now have.

I hope you like it.

We all do.

And we hope that as you dive into your new role and endeavors, you'll know that THIS is where you belong. With US.

JUST like you told ME on Aerie, after the Blue Moon? I'm telling YOU that now!

:: She winked at the Fire Elemental, who nodded with a silent "TOUCHE'" expression on her face.::

:: She stands back and claps with the others as Blaze hugs Nicolas and then allows her emotions to SPARK for a moment, jumping up and down and waving the papers. Alycia smiles widely and laughs as Blaze pulls HER into a hug::

Awww Honey!

:: She holds on to Blaze tightly for a few moments before letting go, watching as Blaze and Karen hug once more::



Nicolas hugged her and then stepped back, clapping as she jumped for joy. No way was he getting in the way of THAT!

 

[Arsenal]

Mike was GLAD he was not doing security for this shit. These heffas was crazy. Alycia tried to guilt him into....SOMETHING and he just laughed.

Shiiiiiiiiit! How about I stand here drinking my shine and trying to figure out how you got in this dress?

Nicolas was laughing too by now and he was THIS close to taking a knee. But Alycia was right. No need for this night to be ruined. He took a step forward and met Karen's eyes, nodding that it was time.

And Karen did her thing. The new venue was PERFECT (and it had to be, he sourced the staff down to the busboys that knew no less than 3 languages and a martial art.) and all was prepared.

She made her presentation and reminded him why he was with her. THIS was the Karen he got to see when they were alone. The lust for life, warmth, the giving nature and the ability to have fun all came to the fore as she made her presentation of the adoption papers AND the ring that Foxfire once wore. She did her voodoo to it and was that FOXFIRE's ghost hugging Blaze? Mike almost reached for his weapon but relaxed as he saw what was going on.

Then it was the boy's turn and he did it up. Mike stepped to the center alongside Karen as Nic took Blaze's hands and gave her the place. Alycia chimed in and then Blaze promptly freaked the fuck out as Mike chimed in a few wolf whistles and took a turn jumping around with her. As she finally calmed a bit, Mike spoke.

I have all of the staffing prepared for now...I will need to brief you on what you have here and get you up to speed. For now...just enjoy your brand new toy darlin'.

Mike gave her a hug and then let her finish freaking out.

Haleigh said "So, this has all been quite wonderful..... are we going to be having MY welcome home celebrations next weekend?"

She joked.

Mike pulled the second unopened pint of 180-proof flavored Tennessee moonshine and stepped forward, placing in front of the mutate.

Welcome back Hales.

 

[Firebird]

XS-The Belle of the Ball

He slowly made his way up, hugging Blaze and then Karen, then taking Karen's hand and giving it to Mike, who took her side. He grabbed both of Blaze's hands and began to speak.

I could not be more happy to see you enjoy what we have tried to show you...what we have tried to give you from our hearts. But we are not QUITE done. Look around.

Nicolas gestures around with his right hand and then looks back to Blaze, who is entranced by the beauty of the place but puzzled at the request.

This club was once owned by Foxfire. It was her baby and at one time one of the hottest clubs in the country. It is only fair that it now become YOURS.

wait...what!?

He's right, Blaze.

:: She said with warmth in her tone of voice::

This space that we're in? This is THE ORIGINAL XS, that was owned by Blaze Fielding.

::FLASH!::

<< 2 days ago. Melrose Place. Apartment 4. Cameron and Blaze indulge in a champagne brunch and free flowing conversation. The topic of FOXFIRE comes up.>>

"What was she like, Cameron? What did she do at the club? I love fashion, like my sister...but I always ...."

She paused as she stopped herself, but she decided that was not that way to move FORWARD. She trusted Cam, so she continued


"....I always wanted to be the glamorous proprietor of my own club. I wanted to be the party princess of NYC but not just in looks. I wanted to RUN the operation too. Morg and I were checking out buildings and possible locations, Haleigh was going to revamp the entire structure to make sure it had the best sound/light/entertainment technology on the planet! It was going to be my personal project. Everyone else on our team had something going for them. Morgan had her fashion, Haleigh had her intelligence agency, Alison had her apothecary, Delilah was a cop and a martial arts instructor with her own dojo, Nicolas had his shipping company and Cameron had his media empire. EVERYBODY had carved their own personal niche...but then the government and mystech started disenfranchising mutants all across the board...and soon, it all came down to us fighting to stay free...stay ALIVE..."

"I guess you would be pleased to know then that Blaze Fielding herself DID own a club just a stone's throw from The Parthenon in NYC. It was called Club Venom. And during it's heyday it was quite the operation. A Den of Inequity really. And salaciousness. Beautiful male and female dancers got the crowd hot and bothered and even more beautiful cocktail waitresses served the liquor. Blaze Fielding loved house music and handpicked the DJs for the club herself..it was really a popping joint!

[taking a bite of his meal]

"When she died...the club kind of fell to the wayside...looking back, I always wished I would have scooped it up..but there was so much going on with The Six that it was everything I could do to keep just MY business afloat...so unfortunately, it fell out of our hands and closed down..."

Blaze blinked a few times...

When we lost her, I fast tracked the execution of her will so that ownership of the club would pass to Morgan. Alison advised Morgan NOT to place the club under lllustra's umbrella at that time. No one knew or understood why...not even me. BUT Morgan, like the rest of us, trusted Alison and because of that...when The Six and their allies were OUTED by Bishop, XS, along with the Parthenon were among the few major holdings of any Six member that were NOT lost in the explosive fall out.

There is no better time to have opened it's doors, to have completely revamped it...than now. A nice time, a new place and space and it's all for you.

Nicolas takes out the papers of ownership and hands them to her.

Based on the idea for the club in Paris you are involved with in concert with Cameron, we had this place re-done. It is state of the art, with the finest staff and security and with a light and sound complement unparalleled on the East Coast.

The Floor plans with all the other rooms, spaces and amenities designed into the club are included in the document packet you now have.

:: She gestures to the deed of ownership and other legal documents Nicolas has handed to Blaze::

I personally saw to it that these are iron clad. This place is YOURS outright. You'll never have it taken from you.

:: She nods with certainty::

I hope you like it.

We all do.

And we hope that as you dive into your new role and endeavors, you'll know that THIS is where you belong. With US.

JUST like you told ME on Aerie, after the Blue Moon? I'm telling YOU that now!

::She winked at the Fire Elemental, who nodded with a silent "TOUCHE'" expression on her face.::

She felt a JOLT rush up her spine as she looked at Alycia rather astonished and then nodded....

Damn! talking about EATING YOUR OWN WORDS!?

HOW did she get here!?

She launched herself into Nicolas, hugging him tightly and exclaiming with amazement. She jumps up and down and expresses sheer joy, even as Mike joins in....holding her hand and jumping up and down with her, hamming it up! Blaze realizes that she (and Mike) are jumping and down like cheerleaders and she stops for a moment, trying to compose herself as she squeezes Mike's hand, clearing her throat and centering herself once more.

Nicolas hugged her and then stepped back, clapping as she jumped for joy. No way was he getting in the way of THAT!

:: She stands back and claps with the others as Blaze hugs Nicolas and then allows her emotions to SPARK for a moment, jumping up and down and waving the papers. Alycia smiles widely and laughs as Blaze pulls HER into a hug::

Awww Honey!

:: She holds on to Blaze tightly for a few moments before letting go, watching as Blaze and Karen hug once more::

Whispering in Alycia's ear

"I could KISS YOU, you bitch!"

Still thinking about putting on a show for Cameron, are you?

They hug tightly as they laugh and tears fall from Blaze's eyes.

"Cameron wasn't LYING when he said you were gonna kick my ASS this weekend. Sally? I might not be in to work monday. I've been worn OUT by all of these men..."

Eyeing Alycia, Cass and VIVICA in particular

"....And women!"

You know what I always say my dear....work HARD, PLAY HARDER!

Blaze blows a kiss at Sally, who gave her the victory sign and a wink.

"Seriously though? Mere words can't express how my heart is brimming with feelings I didn't think I'd ever have again. Thank you, so VERY MUCH!"

Her voice trembles a bit as she wipes away tears.

"So, this has all been quite wonderful..... are we going to be having MY welcome home celebrations next weekend?"

She joked.

"Only if you have the party HERE AND...you join me on stage in a burlesque act!"

Her apple green eyes sparkle with mischief as she licks her lips.

"Zachy already approves of that idea, don't you Zach?"

Blaze teased Haleigh as she smiled at her and looked out among her friends.

"I hate to sound like a corn ball "self-help" guru from the 70s...but this day really IS the 'first day of the rest of my life!'"

"And all I can say now?, Is Hang on to your knickers boys and girls, because there's no better way to live than to...EAT LIFE!"

:fdevil:

she suddenly turns and GRABS Vivica, pulling her over to her and turning her around as she madly and passionately KISSES HER, replicating an iconic pose/moment


Karen's mouth opened a bit with silent surprise and Sally could be heard laughing jovially as everyone else reacted to Blaze's show stopping moment of the perfect evening.

 

[Prophet]

This Is The Moment...

Haleigh: "Yeah back then if you looked at the wrong person sideways, it launched a literal death match...OR The Inferno."

Cameron couldn't help but smile a bit. Everybody on the team spoke of The Inferno with fear and reverance. It had been a turning point for the team and although it was probably one of the most life altering events for The Six, only HALEIGH would be able to use it as almost a joke. Plus, although Haleigh and Cameron HAD paid their penance and taken an incredible amount of responsibility for those events, only those two truly knew how the other felt about those days leading up to Morgan's descent into darkness and near destruction of the world.

Cass: Just so you know, I would've NEVER done that if I didn't think she could handle it...

He watched as Haleigh's expression went from stone cold to 'Girl Please' in about two seconds flat. It was interesting to watch Haleigh interact with Cass, as neither had really any background information on the other outside of random strains of information they had picked up along the way. Still, to see Haleigh being somewhat HELPFUL to Cassandra was definitely a testament to how far the team had really come in the last six years.

Cass: "Okay, so I did cross the line. BUT, I wouldn’t have done it if I thought she wouldn’t get over it. I mean, if it were DELILAH…no. I wouldn’t have DARED to do that to HER. Not right now anyway…"

"I'd like to amend that to don't EVER to something like that to Delilah. I had brunch with her this morning and i'll just say she missed her calling as a major league baseball player.."

Haleigh: "Then you'd better add Ava to the list of people who won't get over it. Trust me, I know my sister."

Cameron nodded to her as Karen piped up, addressing the group as a whole.

Karen: "Ladies and Gentlemen? I'd like to thank you all for coming tonight. Dinner is about to be served now, but with a twist! If you'll all please gather around me in the form of a circle? Good! Now then, we shall retire to the dining room!"

"Showtime...Blaze is NOT going to know what hit her!"

All at once they were transported from The Starlight Lounge of The Parthenon to a location that Cameron had been to several times in the last two weeks in between development meetings for the Parisian Parthenon, helping to take care of Delilah, meetings with Karen and attempting to keep tabs on his big sister. Many would recognize the bones of this place but how it looked now was simply breathtaking. Nicolas had definitely done a good job. :nod:

Dinner went fantastically and everything for the most part was calm, which was reassuring to Cameron. It let him know that EVERYBODY could maintain a sense of decorum and peace for an extending period of time. After a delicious dinner there was some dancing where many of The Six seemed to pick up where they had left off last night. Cameron laughed as he watched poor Simon try and keep up with Ava.

"Come on, Pratt! You're making me look bad! You're telling me fifteen years of fencing doesn't translate into ANY kind of rhythm?!"

He whispered into Alycia's ear as the two weaved about the floor in harmony.

"Let's hope he has the rhythm where it counts!"

The two laughed as everybody seemed to cut loose for a moment. Soon, the music had taken a softer and more serious tone as everybody took seats around the tables as Cameron took his seat next to Alycia, clasping their hands together as Karen spoke.

One thing about Karen was that she was very good with words, both in a complementary and negative sense. She could lift up those around her and inspire just as well as she could render somebody silent and broken. She walked a fine line, but it was things like that that kept her human, something that Cameron hadn't noticed until he took the time to fix things between them. The weeks leading up to this event he had spent quite a bit of time with Karen trying to figure out a way to approach Delilah and the fallout from The Blue Moon. It was the first time that Karen had approached Cameron as a contemporary, somebody with the skillset to help HER, and from then on...Karen and Cameron enjoyed a renewed sense of respect with each other. Many people looked to Karen as a mother figure, Cameron did not. He didn't think he could ever maintain having another 'parental figure' after Kelly King...she had been his one chance and she turned out so overwhelmingly dissappointing. Still, Karen was somebody he definitely respected.

The scene was beautiful and Blaze's reaction to Karen's official adoption of her was just absolutely PERFECT. As Karen brought Blaze up to the stage and performed a spell that would OFFICIALLY and PERMANENTLY solidify her into the timeline, even Cameron got misty eyed for a second. This was a big moment for her, and perhaps the FINAL piece of the puzzle. There was no going back after this, and Cameron felt PROUD to know that HE had done his best to ensure that when Morgan came back from Limbo...she would HAVE her sister.

Next Alycia and Nicolas were up as they began to debut the club to Blaze. Nicolas introduced it and Alycia gave the specific details as Mike also was in on the job. It was all very lovely to watch Blaze just completely overwhelmed with emotion and being an empath, the amount of true love and joy that was emanating from the room was giving him somewhat of a contact high. He felt really good. Finally...it was Blaze's turn to speak.

Blaze: "Cameron wasn't LYING when he said you were gonna kick my ASS this weekend. Sally? I might not be in to work monday. I've been worn OUT by all of these men...And women!"

Cameron laughed as he looked over in Vivica's direction. She had definitely been surprising this weekend. She had returned into the sphere of The Six seemingly a stronger and far different person. She seemed happy for the first time in a long time, and she also finally expressed what had caused the two of them to drift so far apart. Cameron was determined to fix things with her. She had been a part of his life far before anybody in The Six, she was really the first family he ever had. The two of them loved each other in a way that not many friends get to experience. He watched her blush and he smiled.

"Good for you, Vivica...good for you..."

Haleigh: "So, this has all been quite wonderful..... are we going to be having MY welcome home celebrations next weekend?"

Cameron laughed as he took a sip of his Vodka Tonic.

"Oh aren't you being celebrated enough in the press, Black Widow?!"

he snickered.

Blaze: "Only if you have the party HERE AND...you join me on stage in a burlesque act! Zachy already approves of that idea, don't you Zach?"

Cameron looked at 'Prince Charming' but felt no anger or jealousy. In this moment, he was truly happy for everybody. He looked around at his friends. Each one of them seemed to be finally making space in their lives for the possibility of love and romance...He watched Simon and Ava. She was working OVERTIME to pretend that there WASN'T something about Simon that really made her feel something...but considering her history with men...that wasn't a surprise..but there was something different about Simon...he seemed to lighten her spirit and open her up...and no matter how much of a pompous ass he could be...Cameron was grateful. He watched Karen and Mike share a tender moment, one of the few constant relationships in The Six, and then he looked at Alycia as a charge of energy shot down his spine. There was definitely something there between them and Cameron was looking forward to exploring that...and then he looked at Zach and Haleigh. Try as me might to discredit the two of them in his head...Zach had always been there for Haleigh...and she had been there for him..Sure they had their share of troubles, but what relationship didn't? While he still felt that Haleigh and Zach were a relationship of convenience, he could understand how both of them would want to keep holding on to each other...he was definitely a safer option than--well...again, those thoughts had no place in Cameron's mind anymore.

Finally, Cameron took a look over at Vivica and Blaze...now THAT was an interesting development, but not an insane one. Vivica, when she wasn't busy trying to prove herself, was a VERY funny, fun and sassy woman. She had a quick wit, and no matter how much money she made, the thing that Cameron loved about her was that she ALWAYS remembered who she was and where she came from...something that Cameron would serve well to remember. Just then....

Blaze: "And all I can say now?, Is Hang on to your knickers boys and girls, because there's no better way to live than to...EAT LIFE!"

She turned around and GRABBED Vivica, pulling her over to her and turning her around as he starts PASSIONATELY and madly kissing her. Vivica looked a bit shocked at first but seemed to return the favor for a moment. Still...Cameron couldn't help but feel like he was watching his sister. He stood up.

"Hey, hey HEY..."

Laughing as he walked over to Blaze and Vivica who had just finished their rather abrasive display of passion. He pointed his finger at Blaze in an almost parental like fashion, as a father would scold a child for coloring on the walls.

"I don't need to be seeing all of this! She's my sister!"

Cameron cast a soft and knowing glance to Vivica as both Blaze and Vivica laughed and Cameron embraced Blaze in a warm and strong hug. He whispered into her ear.

"I'm so happy for you, sweetheart. I'm so glad we could do this and that I could be a part of it...and I'm glad that when your sister returns, she will be returning to her sister...a sister that's better than ever. I love you..."

He gave her a kiss on the cheek as he turned to the rest of the group, addressingly them loudly.

"Alright, enough of this MUSH! Let's continue this party!"

 

[Recall]

Voila!

Vivica watched with a careful eye as Haleigh and Cameron went over and talked to Cassandra as she continued to carry on with Blaze. From where she was sitting, Cameron and Haleigh looked like two parents trying to teach their daughter how to act in public. It was a little charming and ironic to see the two of them acting in such an opposite way to how they had been years ago.

Taking a sip of her refreshing Moscow Mule, she continued to flirt back and forthe with Blaze before Karen gathered everybody's attention.

Karen: "Ladies and Gentlemen? I'd like to thank you all for coming tonight. Dinner is about to be served now, but with a twist! If you'll all please gather around me in the form of a circle? Good! Now then, we shall retire to the dining room!"

Vivica nodded and followed Blaze and the others to the private dining room where Karen teleported them out of The Parthenon and into a place that seemed incredibly familiar. Doing a visual scan of the basic layout of the club, she immediately matched it with Club XS in her brain as her eyes widened with delight.

"Oh MAN! Club XS! I thought this place was closed DOWN!? This must mean that ownership is being given back to it's RIGHTFUL owner...She's gonna love this!"

The group sat down for dinner as they enjoyed delicious food and relaxing ambience. This was a nice respite from the tension a few minutes earlier. Vivica enjoyed her food and allowed the problems she had with Alycia melt away for a bit as she ate. Following dinner there was a nice and much needed dance break. Vivica, as she always did, tore it up on the dance floor, moving from person to person as she moved in perfect sync with the beat in a seductive and fun manner.

Once the group had their fill of dancing, they returned to their seats with Vivica taking her seat next to Blaze. She was a little nervous, knowing that people might be wondering why Vivica was taking a seat next to the guest of honor, but then she realized just how much she didn't really fucking care as she swirled her straw in her drink and began to watch Karen's presentation.

The entire exchange was incredibly beautiful. Karen officially adopting Blaze as her daughter. Tears welled up in her eyes as she watched Karen speak so eloquently. Karen was a woman she really didn't know all that well. They had never really interacted with one another outside of a social occassion, and usually Vivica was so busy taking care of things behind the scenes that she didn't have much time to enjoy herself. THOSE days were long over. She watched as Blaze got up on stage and Karen performed a spell, BONDING her with her mainstream counterpart, Foxfire as her very essence could be felt in the club at that very moment. Vivica had known Foxfire in a purely social capacity. She had worked with her in a supervisory capacity when Illustra was partering with King Enterprises during The Parthenon Project, but outside of that...she hadn't known much of Blaze Fielding. But Firebird had been a breath of fresh air for Vivica and had brought her to a greater understanding of herself within the sphere of The Six and had allowed her to feel more relaxed around the group. Plus, she was a straight up minx in the sack.

Next, Nicolas, Alycia and Michael took the stage as they introduced Club XS to Blaze Victory. She smiled as Nicolas made the introduction and then found any number of things such as checking her makeup in her compact, taking in the beautiful scenery of the club to avoid having to look and listen to Alycia speak. Still, even Alycia's ass couldn't taint the beauty of the moment as Blaze looked continually like a girl who had just won Prom Queen. She was so happy and taken back by the love she was experiencing. Soon everybody was on their feet congratulating Blaze. She made a celebratory speech.

Blaze: "And all I can say now, is hang onto your knickers boys and girls, because there's no better way to live than to...EAT LIFE."

Vivica was standing by Blaze clapping when all of a sudden, she felt a pull...from BLAZE.

"What the HELL is she doing? BLAZE!"

The next thing she knew she was being pulled into one HELL of a kiss! Her eyes widened with fear and shock for a moment.

"I'm gonna KILL her!"

But...hey, well...that doesn't feel so bad. It may have been the cocktails, it may have been the fiery chemistry between herself and Blaze, and it may have been just because she wanted to give that BITCH Alycia Barnett something ELSE to run her mouth about...but a few seconds later, Vivica returned the kiss with just as much intensity and passion. As Blaze came up for air, Cameron King was upon them, breaking it up in a hilarious "older brother" fashion.

Cameron: "Hey, hey HEY...I don't need to be seeing all of that! She's my sister!"

Vivica rolled her eyes and blushed..it was good to know that instinctively Cameron felt that way about her. It gave her hope that they could continue to work on things between them...but she was NOT going to let him get out things easy..He OWED her a heartfelt apology..it was time for HIM to put in the work on their relationship. Vivica looked around at the various reactions of the others as she tilted her head to the side and bowed. She shrugged her shoulders.

"What can I say? I have a thing for hot, inappropriate white chicks!"

Cameron: "Alright, enough of this mush! Let's continue to PARTY!"

Vivica snapped her fingers in the air and did a mock supermodel pose.

"MMMMhmmm! Mama needs back on that dancefloor, honey!"

 

[Ruby]

Club XS

:: After Blaze made her speech in the only way that SHE could and Cameron told everybody to party, Cass slipped to the ladies room unnoticed. Being here, among her friends, and seeing how loved Blaze was by everybody she needed to tell a certain somebody her true feelings. Dialling Bryan’s number on her phone, she went to the back wall and leaned up against it. ::

Bryan: “Babes! How’s New York treating ya?”

:: Without meaning to, Cass started to cry. The last bit was real emotional for her. :nod: On one hand it was awesome to see everybody celebrate Blaze and see Karen officially adopt her but on the other hand…it really made her miss her own family. It was yet another reminder that her family was gone. ::

*crying*: “Oh, it was so beautiful, Bry. It IS beautiful. But being here, experiencing everything it made me think of something…”

:: Cass sniffled. She HAD to get this out. ::

“I just wanted to say that what you said before you drove me to the airport really resonated with me. They did. And I just wanted to say that…I love you too, and that I DO think of you as my brother. I miss you, Bryan… You know that my family is dead and I will explain everything to you someday but you and Ella both have become like family to me.”

:: Cass drew in a shaky breath. She hadn’t realized that this would be emotionally draining for her. But that was the thing about losing her family the way she did. She never got to say goodbye to them, and she also didn’t tell them they she loved them for the last time. There wasn’t any time. A split second and she was on a wagon to Germany. There wasn’t any closure. So when she watched Karen present Blaze with her adoption papers…that really hit her. ::

*whispers*: “I really miss you, Bryan Ross.”

:: She sniffed again. It felt GOOD talking to Bryan but for now, she’d turn off her emotions and just have fun. There’d be time to fall apart later in the privacy of her penthouse. ::

Bryan: “Right back atcha, babe. I’m always here for you, whenever you need me. I love you.”

“I love YOU. Bye.”

:: She pressed the end button and smiled. She looked in the mirror and chuckled at her face. Makeup was EVERYWHERE. So she took a paper towel and washed it all off. Bryan had told her she was a natural beauty. She’d see if he was right. She washed her face again, making sure no sign of her crying jag remained. She then exited the ladies room and made her way over to the bar. She sat down and watched everybody dance. A server came up to her. ::

Server: “A drink, miss?”

“I’ll have a Coors Light.”

:: The server went behind the bar and fixed her her Coors Light. ::

Server: “So, how come you aren’t dancing?”

:: Ordinarily she would’ve been angry someone was prying in her life but she WAS taking a vacation from her emotions. ::

“I’m the only one without a partner. I feel left out…”

:: He nodded his head in Nicolas’ direction. ::

Server: “What about him?”

“His girlfriend’s away. I don’t know why you care so much…”

:: The server shrugged and handed her the beer. ::

Server: “Sorry.”

“I just don’t feel like dancing, that’s all.”

:: The server nodded again and went back out to tend to the first of the guests. Cass sat back and watched. The club was a really nice place with an amazing setup. ::

Blaze will definitely have fun here...

 

[Persephone]

Karen announced for everyone to gather around her, prompting Ava to leave the bar and head to the center with the others. Soon they were transported from The Starlight Lounge to Club XS. Ava smiled, remembering the days back in her timeline when XS was the hot spot to be. There were fantastic and memorable moments, and then there were moments that tested the sisterhood of her fellow Dire Wraiths and their team as a whole. It was not only a club that was special in THIS timeline, but one that resonated in all the alternate timelines.

Holding her drink, she listened as Karen made her announcement that she had officially adopted Blaze. Smiling, she was truly happy for both of them. She knew how deeply Blaze cherished her relationship with both Morgan and Karen, so for it to be official that Karen was now her mother was huge. Everyone gave their congratulations, and in true Blaze fashion, she topped it all off by grabbing Vivica and straight up making out with her. Coughing out a laugh, leave it to Blaze to PULL Vivica out of the closet, and in front of an audience to boot. But once their kissing session was over, Ava walked over to Blaze and embraced her with a hug.

"I'm really happy for you, Blaze."

Pulling out of the hug, Ava gave her a sincere smile before moving over to the XS bar and taking a seat. Crossing her long legs at the knee, Ava rested her back against the edge of the bar and watched as people began to dance. Not really much in the dancing mood, Ava was quite happy relaxing with a strong drink in hand.

 

[Seer]

Glamor and XS

<< The evening's climax was beautiful, moving and forever changing. Not just for Blaze Victory or even Karen Victoria, but ALL those in attendance.>>

<< The Six had a success story they could be proud of. They saved one of their own and honored the memory and legacy of one of their fallen[Foxfire], who would most certainly live on through Firebird. They also showed that they definitely had what it took to come together, in spite of personal grievances and difficulties.>>

<< The ranks of the Six's ALLIES swelled, with the RETURN of Vivica and Zach, along with the arrival of Simon. Where Vivica and Zach knew more than a little about the Six and what being connected to them, even indirectly, meant for a person's life, SIMON was only now beginning to understand what new, deep waters he was traveling in. Would he be prepared? COULD he proove himself worth to stand with the Six, even in a supporting role? Vivica and Zach both knew THAT was a task easier said than done and while Zach had made the journey more smoothly and easily than Vivica, her she was, definitely more suited to the task and ready to show them all what she was about.>>

<< The celebration of Firebird this evening coasted as the music played and people danced or socialized. Soon, came the time when a certain tradition of the Six had to be honored. Capturing the memories in photos that would tell a story for years to come!>>

<< Staff from Liquid Crystal Images were already on hand to capture and archive this event and now, they were taking pictures.>>

<<FLASH!>>

<< Shots around the completely renovated XS featuring members of the Six and their allies dancing or socializing>>

<< FLASH!>>

<< A touching image of Karen Victoria, holding her daughter, Blaze Victory in her arms with Michael, Alycia, Cass, Nicolas, Ava, Cameron, Haleigh, Zach, Sally Spectra and Vivica all standing behind them clapping and smiling with happiness. Simon was not in this picture. Ava had advised him not to needlessly provoke Karen's wrath by inviting himself into that particular "kodak moment" >>

<< But he didn't have to wait for LONG!>>

<<FLASH!>>

<< An image of Simon looking galant, holding a rose in his teeth while holding and DIPPING Ava as if they were engaged in a hot and heavy tango.>>

<< Alycia standing with Cameron behind her, his arms wrapped around her waist and her hands resting on his hands as he leans into her, resting his head on her shoulder. They BOTH look rather sultry in their facial expressions and body language>>



<< FLASH>>

<< An image Simon who's facial expression was curiously a mix of bewilderment AND amused INTRIGUE as he stands, looking "GQ" , with Blaze Victory behind him...FONDLING him for the camera as she "cups" his chest (a'la Janet) with her hands and can be seen peeking her head out from behind his, suggestively licking her lips and flicking her tongue for the Cameron. Ava is in the picture as well, looking as though she'd just watched MEDUSA give birth! >>

<<FLASH!>>

<< An image of Blaze and Cass doing their best Romy and Michele pose, with Nicolas immediately behind them, showing off, flexing and smiling mischieviously>>

<< An image of of Blaze and Vivica hugged up in a SALACIOUS pose. Blaze, of course, showing off her tongue, while Cameron can be seen inthe picture, standing beside them with his arms folded, smirking and rolling his eyes.>>

<< An image Michael and Alycia strike fancy fighting/martial arts poses together in a rapid series of several shots>>


<<FLASH!>>

<< Ava and Haleigh, posing in sisterly love, with Zach behind Haleigh and Simon behind Ava.>>

<< Michael and Karen the loving, long lasting couple>>

<<FLASH!>>

<< Cameron, Michael, Nicolas, Zach and Simon ALL striking their best sexy "beefcake" poses with a loud, wild, bodacious diva SALLY SPECTRA in the center of all of sexy men, one arm wrapped around Nicolas' waist, the other one around Cameron's and she makes SURE to hold BOTH of them the closest to her. She can be smiling with total approval!>>

<< Another image of Sally Spectra, this time standing in the foreground, looking bold and beautiful while Blaze, Ava, Haleigh, Cass, Alycia, Karen and Vivica are all seen in the image at various points around Sally's background striking model poses in their Spectra Coture dresses>>

<<FLASH!>>

<< One with the whole group, everyone together, standing in perfect visual formation and giving their best faces and smiles.>>

<< and finally...>>

<< FLASH!>>

<< One of JUST the Six and their reserves- Blaze, Haleigh, Ava, Cass, Alycia, Cameron, Nicolas, Karen, Michael all together, striking their signature poses in group formation. THIS one will immediately go into the timeless photo album that features group photos of THE SIX captured through the years at every major event they've had.>>

<< one last FLASH and with the fading of the white light, comes the soft, soothing feel of the night time sky.>>

<< The celebration has concluded and all goals were perfectly reached.>>

<< Everyone has returned to the Parthenon to wind down for the evening in their penthouses or guest suites.>>

<< Karen and Michael enjoy a nightcap with Sally in Sally's guest suite.>>

<< Ava and Simon are out on the balcony of the VIP cafe. Music from one of Dominique Deveraux's successfull albums pipes over the sound system as the two sit out among the stars and slightly breezy night air>>

<< Cass goes to pay Blaze a visit on her floor, wanting a quiet word with her.>>


<< Alycia and Nicolas are in Alycia's suite, sitting leisurely and relaxing as they talk. The topic of Nicolas' earlier proposal to her on Aerie comes up. She's made her decision.>>

<< And speaking of decisions, Cameron is now on the roof, basking in the success of his efforts and how it all came together with help from different people, including Dominique Deveraux. He stands on top of the Parthenon, and can't help but think of the nights Morgan stood on top of Illustra and how she must have felt after some tremendous moment or accomplishment. He knows he's done something truly wonderful that she will be very happy with when she returns. And he's done something wonderful for the TEAM as well.>>

<< NOW it was time for him to address a personal matter, an affair of the heart. Only THEN could he truly move on. He's also up on the roof waiting for someone else to arrive. >>

<< Speaking of which, Haleigh and Zach, in their alone time at the Parthenon had a conversation of their own. Zach was a remarkably perceptive and secure man. He knew that Haleigh had a personal matter to address to Cameron, but he ALSO knew that she needed to patch things up with Alycia too. >>

<< He had some truly "game changing" news to reveal to her regarding his associations and connections with Alycia and he knew it would be better for them ALL if Haleigh and Alycia were on BETTER ground. They had been before, they could be again.>>

<< It was time for Haleigh to proove if she could be just as "forward" in personal matters as well as in the battle field. Both with friends and lovers[ of the heart].>>