A debutante ball for Blaze Victory

[Seer]

In the Starlight Lounge

<< A short while had passed. Nearly everyone who was meant to be in attendance this evening was present. Michael and Karen were the last of the group to arrive, leaving only Blaze, who in typical form, was "fashionably late". But it wouldn't be like the night before, as Karen informed Blaze that this was a more intimate and elegant affair and Blaze understood.>>

<< For the moment though, Nicolas, Ava, Cass, Haleigh, Zach, Simon, Vivica, Cameron, Alycia, Michael, Karen and Sally Spectra were all gathered together. Everyone looked glamorous and well put together, being just a BIT more subdued for this gathering in their looks than they were for the night before at the club.>>

<< There were a few notable absences: Alison, Delilah and Morgan. There were more than a few reasons why each of them should have been there...but the Six's inner circle understood why they werent and so it was with silent regret that they continued on, for the person this evening was for had benefited so much from all of this...all of them!>>

 

[Firebird]

Starlight Lounge

Since she WAS the guest of honor, there was no harm in being just a bit "fashionably late"...besides, she was head over [high] heels in love with the DRESS that Sally Spectra had designed especially for her tonight! She admired it on her feminine form from the front and the back as she turned once , twice and then ran her hands through her perfectly coiffed auburn hair.

SIGH!

Blaze normally preferred higher hemlines, but Sally assured her this one was a winner and that sometimes, when being "the bell of the ball", longer was better. She was RIGHT. She looked and felt GLORIOUS in this gown!

Make up. Jewelry. Accessories. High heels. CHECK! PERFECT!

Down the elevator she went, feeling excited for her future, HERE, where she belonged and now, ALL of her friends, allies and family seemed to be so "shiney and new" to her all over again. She reveled in this weekend and wouldn't soon forget it.

She made her way down the hall, poised and keeping her facial expression calm and steady.

Unbeknownst to Blaze, Karen alerted everyone that she was now approaching and had everyone stand in line so that she could greet them one by one.

Finally....

Ladies and Gentlemen, Miss Blaze Victory!

She paused for a moment as she was greeted by soft applause from her friends.

She silently mouths "Thank You", smiling warmly to everyone.

The jazz band began to play a smooth cover of Madonna's "Something to Remember". She makes her way further inside.

"You all look so good tonight!"

She begins the fun task of greeting each person present, taking in their whole look, their facial expressions, their EYES, their scent and to feel their energy as they other took her hands or embraced her (and some did both). Some, like Zach, she hadn't seen in QUITE some time and it was hard to deny that he did look good...better than she initially gave him credit for but whether it had been yesterday or last year...she was happy to see ALL of them right here, right now. Down the line she goes, complimenting each of them and exchanging a brief but sincere moment tailor made to each person. Her greetings were not accented by shocking/raunchy moves or remarks as she was known for. Even Simon and Vivica received subdued greetings from the fire elemental, but she was no less welcoming of them than she was the Six's inner circle.

There'll be time to hobknob soon enough.

Cameron was at the end of the line. She took both her hands into his.

"The song the band is playing right now? It's perfect for how I feel right now. You, Nicolas, Karen, Alycia...all of you have gone above and BEYOND to give me "something to remember."

"I can't think of a better way to spend tonight."

She pulls him into a tender embrace, no sudden groping or molesting either. Just an honest to goodness HUG from emotion. She seemed to be in a slightly more refined state of mind this evening, suited to the event.

"You really ARE my fairy god father..."

She says quietly in his ear before letting him go and stepping back.

A server passes by in a most timely manner with a tray full of flutes of the best champaign.

"Hmm yes, RIGHT on time!"

And now, everyone began to move about a bit more, enjoying drinks and appealing hors d'oeuvres

Blaze was in the center of the lounge, taking it all in for a moment, enjoying the sublime jazz version of "Something to remember" and looking around at those gathered.

They didn't just come together in times of battle or tragedy, they came together in tender moments and good times too and really...just like a FAMILY should.

 

[Orion]

Cass: Hi! I'm Cass.

"Cass.... as in Cassandra? A lovely name for a lovely girl. I find, I must confess, I'm quite enchanted by you--"

Haleigh: Yeah, be careful of that, my love. She'll drain you dry. Remember what happened with the last woman who's siren song you answered?

Claudia. She was referring to Claudia. Yes, that had been a disaster. Zach had given in to Claudia's play and fully referred doing so. That woman had been C.R.A.Z.Y!

Luckily, a Goddess swooped in to save him this time. Persephone herself. The living, breathing proof that the legends were true, that his childhood heroes existed.

Cass: Ah, I see you know my fan club president!

"Oh yes, Ava and I go WAY back."

Ava: Zachary Armani...It's been awhile. You look good.

They hugged, and Zach nearly lifted Ava off her feet.

"It's been much too long. I was starting to forget how exquisite you are. If it weren't for Haleigh......"

He replied with a wink as they separated. Ava called for a drink, ordering the same wine they were drinking. Vivica came in next, pulling him into a hug.

Vivica: And Zach...long time no see, love! Come here!

"Hey Viv, you look alluring, as always."

More people arrived, and there was greeting all around. Then Karen wanted everyone to straighten up, because Blaze was coming. Karen was the closest thing most of them had to a mother, so they all obliged. When Blaze have him a hug, he returned it deeply. He didn't know she wasn't the same Blaze.

"Ah, I missed you, you resplendent little minx. I'm still trying to talk Haleigh into that threesome..... She just says she's 'been there, done that'."

He says with a laugh. It was a little joke between them. No-one was really sure if Blaze had been serious when she first suggested the threesome, but they kept mentioning it as long as it was still amusing.

 

[Persephone]

Cass: Ah, I see you know my fan club president!

Rolling her eyes, this little girl had some nerve. And Ava was very close to loosing her temper.

"Isn't there a street corner somewhere you need to work?"

Ava snapped, as she gave Cass a once over noting her skimpy dress.

"And look, you wouldn't even need to change."

She stated with a faux smile before turning her back on Cass completely ignoring her again. Seeing the bartender slide Ava's glass of wine toward her, she thanked him and picked it up.

Zach: "It's been much too long. I was starting to forget how exquisite you are. If it weren't for Haleigh......"

[sighing] "I know...she's always in the way."

She teased playfully, giving her sister a smile. But of course, another roach had to make their way into the party causing Ava's smile to fade. Seeing Vivica approach Simon and hug him, Ava took a long sip of her wine--her eyes following Vivica as she made her way to Zach and hugged him as well.

Vivica: Good to see you Ava. You look spectacular as always. Love the necklace!

Lifting a single brow as if to say, what the fuck? Ava just stared at Vivica before the woman made her rounds to say hi to everyone else. Turning to Haleigh, she gave her sister a look.

"What the hell was that?"

She murmured softly. Haleigh was very aware of Vivica and Ava's rocky relationship. In fact, Vivica and Haleigh weren't the best of friends either. So Vivica complimenting her? That was definitely out of left field. Glancing over to the entrance of the lounge, finally Cameron, Alycia, Karen, and Mike showed up. And then Blaze. In true Blaze fashion, she entered in a floor length ball gown and greeted everyone like the queen of England had just arrived. Smirking, Ava embraced Blaze in a warm hug, whispering in her ear.

"You look beautiful."

Giving her a smile as they pulled away from each other, Blaze made her way down the line until finally she had said hello to everyone. Turning back to the bar, Ava slid her empty wine glass towards the tender watching as he immediately refilled it without her having to ask. Great bartender...she might have to steal him away to the Parisian Parthenon.

 

[Black Widow]

Cass: So we do. You guys look lovely.

"Likewise, sucker."

She replied coolly with a smile. Haleigh nodded in thanks as Zach handed her a glass of the most delicious wine. He always picked the best.... but then, he was Italian. Someone in his family owned a vineyard, she remembered him saying.

Nicolas: You didn't get my text my dear? I have one coming in for you and I needed the size...let me see..... Strong but soft, petite like your size...hmnn...I am guessing a 6?

Haleigh chuckled and withdrew her hand from his, giving him a playful slap on the shoulder.

Nicolas: Mike says you owe him a drink. I think he has some moonshine to have you try. It is actually very good for it to be from some guy in the woods that a friend of a friend of a friend of his knows.

"I do owe him a drink. Well he be in attendance tonight? Fuck, I haven't had any moonshine since my backwoods Kentucky days. What a naughty little teenage girl I was with a flask full of backyard bourbon and a blunt!"

Zach: It's been much too long. I was starting to forget how exquisite you are. If it weren't for Haleigh......

Ava: I know...she's always in the way.

"Um, whatever, I AM THE WAY."

Ava: Keeping him in shape I see.

"Exactly!"

They laughed and Haleigh smirked over the rim of her wine glass as Vivica came in and gave her a meaningful hug.

Viv: Haleigh...always a pleasure to see you...Love the dress!

"And you as well."

A measured reply, a friendly hug. No words of business passed between them. Haleigh respected Vivica's wish to keep their arrangement a need-to-know affair. And why not? It wasn't like they were lying to anyone or hiding it. It just wasn't relevant to the current discussions.

Vivica: Good to see you Ava. You look spectacular as always. Love the necklace!

Ava: What the hell was that?

"I know, weird right? I thought she hated you.... You know, because of the whole attempted murder thing."

And then Blaze arrived, striving to outdo them all in her floor length ball gown.

"Well well, firecracker. Don't you look marvelous?!"

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

Hi! I'm Cass.

"Cass.... as in Cassandra? A lovely name for a lovely girl. I find, I must confess, I'm quite enchanted by you--"

:: Cass opened her mouth to speak when Haleigh spoke up. ::

Yeah, be careful of that, my love. She'll drain you dry. Remember what happened with the last woman who's siren song you answered?

:: Cass chuckled at that. She looked at Zach and Haleigh and spoke quietly. ::

“Oh, don’t look like that. I only drain those who are mean to me.”

:: She winked at the two of them. ::

Ah, I see you know my fan club president!

Rolling her eyes, this little girl had some nerve. And Ava was very close to loosing her temper.

"Isn't there a street corner somewhere you need to work?"

Ava snapped, as she gave Cass a once over noting her skimpy dress.

"And look, you wouldn't even need to change."

Well. THAT’S nice.

*quips*: “What can I say, it’s not my night to WORK.”

:: But Ava had already turned her back. That just made Cass go further. ::

“Oh, Cassadine, I already KNOW you have a fantastic ass.”

:: Then she SMACKED Ava’s ass and passed by Simon. ::

“YOU are one lucky guy, Simon Pratt…”

:: She patted Simon on the shoulder as she passed by him on her way to talk to Vivica. Before she met up with her, though, everyone was directed into a line by Karen who said that Blaze was nearly here. So she got in line even though she thought it was cheesy. She smiled and clapped with everyone when Blaze came in. Blaze greeted everybody one by one. ::

*whispers*: “You look BEAUTIFUL, Blaze!”

:: Cass both shook Blaze’s hand and hugged her. Then the server passed around champagne and of COURSE Cass had to have one! She went off to Nicolas’ side for a bit. ::

*sadly*: “Damn, Nicky, I wish Morgan could be here for Blaze.”

:: She really did feel bad. She and her brother, Jacek, had shared a special bond as siblings and she always cherished other siblings’ bonds because her brother was long gone and she missed him so much. ::

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas was greeting everyone, everyone was beautiful and well-behaved. Hugs and kisses all around. And then Ava HAD to do it.

Rolling her eyes, this little girl had some nerve. And Ava was very close to loosing her temper.

"Isn't there a street corner somewhere you need to work?"

Ava snapped, as she gave Cass a once over noting her skimpy dress.

"And look, you wouldn't even need to change."

Shit that was kinda funny! Nicolas kept a straight face so as to not make anything worse. Unluckily for the party, Cass had her OWN ideas.

*quips*: “What can I say, it’s not my night to WORK.”

:: But Ava had already turned her back. That just made Cass go further. ::

“Oh, Cassadine, I already KNOW you have a fantastic ass.”

:: Then she SMACKED Ava’s ass and passed by Simon. ::

“YOU are one lucky guy, Simon Pratt…”

Ohshi- and she kept walking to Vivica with HER back to the goddess of death. Nicolas stood quickly as Ava turned and hoped that Simon was good for more than fucking. Nicolas pulled his phone.

Hey you two!! I left my wallet upstairs and I figured I could sell a pic or two of you two instead of hitting the elevator. Smile like you came here together and say CHEESE!!

It was all he had on short notice...he hoped it would be enough...

 

[Longshot]

Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

And there they were back in the elevator and it looked like things were picking up where they left off last night...and earlier this morning. They were engaged in heavy petting and kissing as Simon playfully bit Ava's lip as he smoothed his hands down her back and onto her ass.

The elevator began to slow as Ava pulled back and looked him rather amused. She used her thumb to get rid of the traces of her lip gloss of his lips.

"Maybe we should start taking the stairs?"

Simon laughed.

"Are you kidding? That would kill my back."

He smirked as Ava primped herself in the mirror and Simon took a moment to smooth out his perfect hair and readjust his tie before giving his reflection a customary wink and turned his attention to the doors as they swung open and the two exited the elevator heading for The Starlight Lounge. There was already a crowd of people there, and he recognized most of them from last night, with the exception of one. Ava filled in the gap as she went over to him first.

Ava: Zachary Armani...It's been awhile. You look good.

She embraced him a hug before turning to the woman that mentioned she was Ava's sister last night before attempting to intimidate him. It had worked, but he couldn't well let her know that, now could he?

Ava: Keeping him in shape I see... I'll have whatever they're having...

Simon made his greeting to Zach, extending his hand for a handshake.

"Hey! Nice to meet you...I'm Simon Pratt...business associate of Cameron...and well Ava's now actually."

Simon turned his attention to Haleigh and he cocked his head and smiled.

[to Haleigh] "Scary Big Sister! Nice to see you again! Don't worry, I've been a very good boy. I promise."

He laughed as he made his way further down the line, happy to see Vivica as he embraced her in a warm and lingering hug.

[in Vivica's ear] "Oh Doll, so glad to see you're here...Good for you!"

Simon gave her a kiss on the cheek as he made his greetings to the rest of the people in attendance as before long Blaze Victory made her grand entrance in a beautiful dress, as Simon heard a beautiful sound fill the air.

"That piano? It's in perfect tune...you WILL play that before you leave here..."

Everybody began to greet Blaze as she made her grand debut, he too joined in on getting a big hug and big goose on the ass from Blaze herself. He liked Blaze. He spent so much time around stuffy and boring people that her candor and general outrageousness intrigued him. She thanked everybody for coming as people continued to say their hellos to each other.

That's when he saw Cassandra. The woman had danced with him last night, but he couldn't feel as if it were for any other reason than to piss Ava off. Obviously there was SOME kind of friction between them, though it seemed to be more on Ava's side. He may have accepted Cameron's invitation...but he was HERE with Ava.

Cassandra: "I see you've met the president of my fan club!"

Zach: "Oh yes, Ava and I go WAY back."

Simon leaned in as he watched Cass and Zach speak.

"Just so we're clear...we hate her right?"

He was now standing next to Ava and Haleigh, with Ava being in the middle. Cassandra seemed to be baiting Ava a little bit. Simon barely knew Ava but from what he had ALREADY ascertained from her...that wasn't a good idea.

Ava: "Isn't there a street corner somewhere you need to work?"

[looking her up and down]

Ava: "And look, you wouldn't even need to change!"

Simon stifled a laugh. Well, he guessed that cleared everything up. Ava did not like Cassandra Johnson. He could SENSE Ava tensing up just LOOKING at her. Cass did not pick up this queue.

Cassandra: "What can I say, it's not my night to WORK."

Ava turned her back for a moment to see where the food was hiding. Simon stayed facing Cass.

Cassandra: "Oh, Cassadine, I already KNOW you have a fantastic ass."

And then...she SMACKED Ava's ass and looked at HIM.

"YOU are one lucky guy, Simon Pratt.."

"Oh Shit.."

Thankfully Haleigh had been paying attention as well and both of them exchanged a knowing look that told them to HOLD AVA BACK. They were right because JUST as they grabbed hold of Ava she had turned around and was attempting to LUNGE at Cassandra. He knew he should have taken it seriously, but he couldn't help at find it very, very funny. Haleigh attempted to calm Ava down, and thankfully..she did.

Simon put his hand around her waist for a moment and looked at her.

"You're fantastic, Ava..."

He gestured over with his head in the direction of Cassandra as she walking towards Nicolas. With his mouth he made a "shh" gesture as a green sparkle seemed to flicker in his eyes for a brief moment, turning his attention to Cass. As she started walking, super pleased with herself, she was HALTED as the HEEL of her shoe SNAPPED in half, causing Cass to TRIP on her own ankle and fall forward in a rather comedic fashion as the contents of her martini flew high in the air poised to fall back on top of her once she hit the ground. He smirked as he looked back at Ava and whispered in her ear.

"Public humiliation is always better than physical violence dear...and it lasts a LOT longer..."

He laughed to himself as he grabbed a martini from one of the Server trays as he raised a glass in the air and toasted.

"To Gravity!"

 

[Persephone]

Cass: "What can I say, it's not my night to WORK. Oh, Cassadine, I already KNOW you have a fantastic ass."

Ava barely heard what Cass had to say before she felt a very swift and hard SMACK on her ass. Ava jumped and her eyes immediately went wide in horror before nearly turning BLACK with anger. Seeing Cass strut by like her shit didn't stink, Ava LUNGED forward ready to rip the girl in half. Unfortunately for Ava, both Haleigh and Simon had their hands on her before she could get close enough to grab Cass.

Nicolas: Hey you two!! I left my wallet upstairs and I figured I could sell a pic or two of you two instead of hitting the elevator. Smile like you came here together and say CHEESE!!

"Oh i'll create a Polaroid moment..."

She nearly growled under her breath, her body still tensed and fighting against her sister and Simon's grip. But finally, Ava took a few breaths in and let her body relax. She could feel Simon's hands move to her waist, but Haleigh still kept a firm grip on her upper arm. Giving her sister an 'i'm good' look, Haleigh finally let go.

Looking at Cass who was making her way over to Vivica.

[to Vivica] "You better keep your new pet on a short leash, Viv. We wouldn't want anything BAD to happen to her."

Ava warned in a very specific way that would hit home with Vivica AND Mike. But just as Cass was nearly next to Vivica, her shoe broke and she tripped forward, spilling her martini. Vivica had to catch her in mid trip in order to prevent Cass from falling flat on her ass.

Simon: "To gravity!"

Looking at Simon...did he? Smirking, he gave her a look that indicated that he in fact DID.

Simon: "Public humiliation is always better than physical violence dear...and it lasts a LOT longer..."

"I still want to snap her neck...but I see your point."

She whispered back before turning to Haleigh, knowing she and Cass were in the process of getting acquainted.

"You might want to give her a history lesson before she pulls another stunt like that."

 

[Prophet]

Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

Cameron and Alycia walked down the hall their arms linked as they made their entrance to The Starlight Lounge, where despite his best efforts, most of the guests had already arrived. Tonight, Cameron had one of the waiters grab him a soda water with a few lime slices. He had had MORE than enough alcohol in the last few days and the next week promised to be one of excitement and change in The Zenith Group, with Ava joining The Board of Directors as well as the new and exciting project with Blaze and The House of Spectra. Plus, he wanted to remember tonight. He would drink later in the evening. Moderation is key

The two made their way into the main room of the lobby where the piano music was playing softly. The Starlight Lounge was a far more intimate venue than Club Envy and in every corner it evoked a sense of Old Hollywood and Luxury. This was a special place. Often the patrons would find themselves treated to an impromptu performance by Dominique Devereaux, who would use the venue to test out new and exclusive material or just play songbird, even taking requests from those enjoying the ambience. It was probably Cameron's favorite place in the entire hotel.

Upon seeing the group, his face lit up with a smile as he greeted the group warmly.

"Hello everyone!"

Most of the group raised a glass and gave him a cheer as Alycia and Cameron parted ways to say their hellos to the group. First up for him was Nicolas. He gave the man a friendly handshake and a pat on the back.

"We're in the home stretch, NK! I don't know about you but I need a nap!"

Next to Nicolas was Vivica who he kissed briefly on the lips before embracing her in a hug, whispering in her ear.

"Hey V..You look beautiful. I'm glad you could make it...Oh yeah, I know EVERYTHING. Lunch tomorrow...I won't take no for an answer..."

He made his way further in the group as he saw Ava and Simon standing next to Haleigh...and Zach. As much as he wished Zach's absence last night would carry onto this evening, he did his best to shrug it off and save face. He would from easiest to most difficult. He extended a hand out to Simon.

"Pratt...looking good and glad you were smart enough to make it. Take note of this place. The ambience, the environment..the feeling it gives you..it's something i'd like to create in Paris."

Cameron turned to Ava as he gave her the customary European greeting of a kiss on either cheek before giving her a hug. How far THESE two had come.

"Looking fierce and intimidating as always. I can't wait to set you loose on Monday. Finishing touches are being made on your office. I knocked out a conference room to give you more space. You'll get an e-mail probably tomorrow with some last minute options from the design team..Seriously Ava, very excited to be working with you..."

[he cocked an eye over at Simon]

"And it seems like you're already getting along with your staff quite well..."

[leaning in he whispered in her ear]

"You're welcome..."

Smiling he made his way over to Haleigh and his face softened as he flashed her a large smile and a giant all encompassing bear hug.

"Hales! Looking a little frisky tonight! I like it...feels good to have you back for sure!

[leaning in]

"Somebody's gotta keep that sister of your's in line. I hear she's slowly trying to christen every private space of this hotel...the family resemblance is striking. Looking forward to catching up with you later..."

He left it at that. If Haleigh and Cameron were going to make any kind of progress they were going to have to talk to each other...about ANYTHING. Even if it was the weather, Cameron hoped that in just opening the lines of communication between them, things would get better. He extended a hand to Zach and nodded.

"Zach Armani...glad you could make it...I know everybody missed you last night."

And then he moved on before Zach could really respond. Cameron was a far better person than he used to be, but he wasn't a nun. He REALLY didn't care for Zach Armani but he wasn't about to say anything about it anymore. The time for that had passed, and after everything that had happened between Delilah, Alison and Morgan...petty and obtuse disputes just didn't seem to matter anymore. Zach had Haleigh and HE had Alycia...and there just didn't seem to be much of a point in looking at any of that any closer. Next was Cassandra. He had to admit, from his security detail he had learned that there were several unconscious bodies in Club Envy last night. It didn't take a telepath to know they had been from Cassandra. She had't been around, hell CAMERON hadn't been around, but after what The Six had been through with Bishop coupled with how he was trying to get his family comfortable enough to return to New York for good, it kind of left him a little pissed off at the girl. He greeted her warmly.

"Good to see you CJ...but it seems like you forgot to finish your DRESS! Nice!"

He smiled as he gave her a hug, and in doing so began to pick up on what had transpired between Haleigh, Nicolas and her in the VIP Clubhouse. Though he felt they were WIDELY outrageous with their options, at least they were trying to give her SOMETHING to work with. He sent her a thought call.

"I see Nicolas and Haleigh got to you before I did...I'm glad they are attempting to help you learn how to sustain yourself in a proper manner..but don't let something like that happen on my property ever again...We've only just come out of hiding...and you NEVER know who might be watching you, CJ...just food for thought. Don't get mad..or sad...just take in the information and GROW from it..."

All of a sudden...

"Ladies and Gentlemen, Miss Blaze Victory!"

She paused for a moment as she was greeted by soft applause from her friends.

She silently mouths "Thank You", smiling warmly to everyone.

The jazz band began to play a smooth cover of Madonna's "Something to Remember". She makes her way further inside.

"You all look so good tonight!"

She begins the fun task of greeting each person present, taking in their whole look, their facial expressions, their EYES, their scent and to feel their energy as they other took her hands or embraced her (and some did both). Some, like Zach, she hadn't seen in QUITE some time and it was hard to deny that he did look good...better than she initially gave him credit for but whether it had been yesterday or last year...she was happy to see ALL of them right here, right now. Down the line she goes, complimenting each of them and exchanging a brief but sincere moment tailor made to each person. Her greetings were not accented by shocking/raunchy moves or remarks as she was known for. Even Simon and Vivica received subdued greetings from the fire elemental, but she was no less welcoming of them than she was the Six's inner circle.

There'll be time to hobknob soon enough.

Cameron was at the end of the line. She took both her hands into his.

"The song the band is playing right now? It's perfect for how I feel right now. You, Nicolas, Karen, Alycia...all of you have gone above and BEYOND to give me "something to remember."

"I can't think of a better way to spend tonight."

She pulls him into a tender embrace, no sudden groping or molesting either. Just an honest to goodness HUG from emotion. She seemed to be in a slightly more refined state of mind this evening, suited to the event.

"You really ARE my fairy god father..."

She says quietly in his ear before letting him go and stepping back.

A server passes by in a most timely manner with a tray full of flutes of the best champaign.

"Hmm yes, RIGHT on time!"

And now, everyone began to move about a bit more, enjoying drinks and appealing hors d'oeuvres

Blaze was in the center of the lounge, taking it all in for a moment, enjoying the sublime jazz version of "Something to remember" and looking around at those gathered.

They didn't just come together in times of battle or tragedy, they came together in tender moments and good times too and really...just like a FAMILY should.

Cameron hugged Blaze with the same sweet emotion and intensity. It was good to see her happy..and he had come to have a newfound respect for Blaze as a teammate and as a friend. With so much turmoil in the group surrounding The Blue Moon, he truly felt that Blaze was an ally and somebody that would trust his judgment and leadership during this time. A support.

"Don't even mention it...You're family...and we always take care of family. First and foremost!"

He found Karen and Sally Spectra and said his hello and began to talk to them for a few moments before...

Ava: Oh i'll create a Polaroid Moment!"

Spinning on his heels he spun around to see Ava lunge at Cassandra like a wild lioness as Haleigh and Simon restrained her. All the while Cass continued to walk towards Vivica and Nicolas.

"Great...good to know THOSE two are still getting along famously..."

[turning to Sally and Karen]

"Excuse Me..."

He began to make his way over towards Ava and Simon as he saw Cass out of NOWHERE began to fall to the ground thanks to a broken heel as her drink flew into the air. Squinting his eyes, the liquid in the air flung itself back into the martini glass as the glass flew into Cameron's left hand. As mortifying as it might have been for Cass who was falling all over Vivica to stand up, Cameron couldn't help but stifle a laugh. No matter who it was, it was ALWAYS funny to watch somebody just eat shit like that. He walked over to Cassandra and helped her up, returning her glass to her hand. He shook his head and smiled.

"Well Cass..you certainly have been making one hell of an impression this weekend...Make this your last drink, eh?"

"That was a little bit TOO much in Ava's favor..."

He watched as Ava and Simon exchanged somewhat of a knowing glance at each other. If they didn't look so cute together he would have stormed over there and berated Simon in front of Ava. Furthermore, he was almost a little proud. What Simon had done was a little reminiscent of an older version of Cameron himself. Cameron made himself over to Ava and Simon as Ava was still attempting to calm herself. He cast Ava a sarcastic and sassy smirk.

"Ava? Down girl..."

[looking back at Cass for a second as a smile flashed across his face. He leaned into the two of them.]

"But that WAS kind of funny though..."

He cast a dissapproving glance over towards Simon as he spoke to him telepathically.

"Funny, Pratt...but not amusing in the slightest. I'm not about to berate you in front of your new boss..but we made a deal..and if you keep up THAT kind of shit...I'm going to personally make you MY plaything. What would the papers think of that!"

Cameron FLICKED Simon's nose as he flagged down a waiter.

"Yeah...Vodka Soda..."

The waiter smiled at him disapprovingly.

"Hey...I tried..."

 

[Firebird]

Starlight Lounge

She had greeted each person and was now out in the center of the lounge. Blaze stood posed, holding a fresh flute of champagne. She was quieter than usual, but no less observant as she took in the surroundings and the people here with her. There was an interesting mix of energy and aura in the air tonight. Some were getting alone better than others and others. That was nothing new...but there was something different about more than a few people present tonight. And then of course there were those who were NOT present...

Sigh!

Oh Morgan...

Her mind drifted for a few moments until suddenly Cass took a shocking tumble! Blaze's apple green eyes widened with disbelief as she quickly went over to her friend and began helping her up.

She caught sight of a smirking Simon, whispering to Ava and Cameron quickly approaching them, facing Simon directly as he addressed him.


"Cassie...you okay babe?"

Looking down at the psionic succubuss' high heel.

"What MYSTERIOUSLY rotten luck...you must've gotten ahold of a..."

Glancing back at Cameron and Simon

"'Irregular pair' of these. "

Firebird used the finer aspects of her elemental power to completely evaporate any liquid and trace of it from Cass' body and dress without causing any damage to her outfit and helping the girl to calm a bit with a gentle heating sensation.

"I've had moments where I've totally wiped out. And you know, Morg told me that some of the models who take those epic DIVES on the runway? They're not accidents at all. They do it on purpose...because, as perverse as it may sound, sometimes THAT is what gets you the headlines!"

Giving Cass a sideways hug as she smiles.

"So don't worry. You aren't the first... and you WON'T be the last."

Blaze couldn't help but feel like that was no accident, but Cass was not nearly as crafty as Morgan when it came to staging something like that and Sally didn't make OR sell "CHEAP CRAP" and speaking of Sally...SHE was the only person in this room who DIDN'T have mutant powers. Everyone else did. But Simon and Vivica's power sets weren't immediately known to everyone. At the moment, however, there was no way for her to narrow down the culprit or proove their involvement...so, for now, she allowed her suspicions to subside.

"I appreciate you being here and I'm pleased with how you've really opened up over the last week. You're definitely a source of intrigue, Cass. That's a PLUS. Don't let anybody here intimidate you into being silent or mousy. We've all had to find a way to FIT each other and it took time. You're just starting out later than the rest of us. Hell...*I* didn't exactly "start out" with THIS version of the Six...but now? That doesnt really matter anymore."

"All that matters is that we're here, we are open and honest and we make the most of our time together."

She says with more than a hint of relief in her tone as she smiles at Cass, leading her over to Vivica.

"Glad you made it, Viv."

"I bet this is something you didn't quite see yourself being apart of not too long ago."

"It's not so bad, is it?"

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Starlight lounge

<< Karen felt like she'd been planning and was now directing a debutante ball of sorts for a daughter of her's. But it was an effort she was glad to make on Blaze's behalf.>>

<< The evening was unfolding nicely and once Blaze finally arrived, everyone had lined up just as Karen directed and was on hand to receive and greet Blaze.>>

<< Now, as the evening was well under way, she stood poised in her outfit, talking with Sally Spectra as the women enjoyed their drinks and surveyed the room. Cameron joined them shortly.>>

Oh Cameron, what a lovely place to begin tonight's celebration!

She said with a smile and a nod. Everything we've needed has been housed under one roof this weekend...

Including a hangover cure for the good doctor here...

<< Karen blushed a bit as she looked away, clearing her throat.>>

Now REALLY, Sally. It's not as though I'm some sort of drunken reprobate!

Heyyyy...no judgement from ME, my dear! I put quite a few away last night myself! We showed those boys and girls what a grown woman can do, didn't we?

<< Sally nudges Karen and laughs softly as the doctor smiles a bit. She WAS in rare form last night, but she ENJOYED it. Though she CERTAINLY wasn't expecting the "late night call" MICHAEL made on her later that evening :shh: >>

<<Sigh>> Well...it's better to enjoy yourself in the comfort and safety of your friends though, isn't it? It's not as though anything happened that would cause....

<< at that moment, Cass FALLS to the floor!>>

Heavens!

<< Karen and Sally look surprised and concerned!>>

Don't tell me she's THAT much of a lightweight!?

<< Blaze went to see about Cass and was helping her up>>

"Excuse Me..."

<< Karen and Sally nod as he quickly makes his way over to Simon and Ava. SIMON seemed to be enjoying the unexpected mishap Cass had. Karen narrowed her opal blue eyes with disapproval at that...and HIM.>>

Oh Sally...I can't stand that little lech.

<< She says with contempt>>

Were it not for Ava, I wouldn't have allowed him here. He's just too IRRITATING to tolerate!

:: Waving her hand and shaking her head::

Nah. Don't let that boy bother you, Karen. He's like a naughty little puppy. I have one just like him that works for me actually. He's adorable, but sometimes, you have to swat 'em on their little butts to remind them how far is too far, ya know what i mean?

<< The doctor continued to glare at Simon. It didn't occurr to her that HE was the one responsible for Cass' fall. She just didn't care for him. She'd seen clients like him. Foolish, arrogant RICH young men who thought the world was their personal playground. Some were harmless....others were sociopaths. She wasn't quite sure WHERE on that spectrum Simon was...yet>>

Hmm....maybe.

I just hope Ava is up to the task of keeping THAT one in line. Otherwise, He may find himself in a doghouse, QUITE LITERALLY.

<< Sally feigned a look of surprise as she laughed at Karen, but they both knew on some level the doctor was serious and she COULD turn him into a dog with a twitch of her nose.>>

Trust me. He won't require that much attention or effort from you. Borrow a leaf from MY book. I dated a Shipping magnate once. He was accustomed to having...or BUYING whatever he wanted. I was apparently the first woman who DIDN'T fall at his feet and live on his every word and it made him chase me like no other. It was quite enjoyable I mus say!

:: Sally nods with affirmation as she remembers the days with Massimo::

I know Simon's parents. I've dressed them both several times. Simon maybe rich and accomplished but he's just a kid, he may have traveled the world, but he knows little of it. IF he manages to hold Ava's interest long enough to stick around...he'll sober up once he gets closer to the center of of your group and what your lives are about.

Until then? A man like that is best viewed and TREATED as "background" until he actually has REASON to hold your attention. Besides...He's a little too skinny for my taste. Unlike your MICHAEL over there...

<< Karen blushes a bit>>

Oh Sally...

<< If Sally was trying to get Karen's mind and rising ANGER off of Simon, it worked. The woman's laid back attitude about things was in stark contrast to Karen's. Though she had loosened up a bit since her time with Michael, there were just some things...some behaviors she couldn't abide. Everyone else in the Six knew that. Simon had yet to learn...and he would. One way or the OTHER.>>

<< Clearing her throat.>>

Well...I suppose if Ava's happy with the wretch...I mean boy...that's all that matters for now. There'll be plenty of time to punish...I MEAN...interact with him more in depth should he, as you say, "manage to hold Ava's attention long enough to end up sticking around."

For now....for this evening...I'll focus my efforts on Blaze. That's who all this is for anyway.

<< Sally pats Karen on the back>>

NOW you're talking, Doc! Cool, calm, collected!

 

[Artemis]

Starlight Lounge

::Alycia had made her "lap around the room" greeting ALMOST everyone in one form or another. She merely acknowledged Simon and completely ignored Vivica and made it look so easy, as if Vivica were a potted plant to be, as Sally would say "regarded as background and nothing more. She also kept it brief with Haleigh. Her shortness with Haleigh was more "organic" than it was with Simon, speaking to the bitterness she had toward the woman that erupted when she was talking to Cameron earlier about their situation::

:: After Blaze arrived, she and Alycia shared a close, tight hug, swaying back and forth a bit. The two had become quite close in the months following the Blue Moon, more so than Alycia had been with the original Blaze.::

:: Alycia was now standing with Nicolas and Michael. Holding a drink in hand.::

I gotta hand it to Blaze...

She really does know how to bring EVERYONE in the fold.

:: A not so subtle dig at Simon and Vivica::

But...I suppose I can take a cue from PETA and remember the need to be KIND to animals...

:: gulping down the rest of her champagne as she snatched another flute from tray that glided by. At that moment, Cass took a dive and Alycia choked on another gulp of champaign::

:: coughing a bit::

um...what the hell was THAT about!?

:: Others were wondering that to various degrees themselves. Alycia caught sight of Nicolas holding in his laughter::

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.

:: She saw Karen and Sally, who were both looking concerned. She then saw Cameron quickly making his way over to Simon, who was giggling like a highschool girl and Ava, who, moments EARLIER had just been ready to launch herself on to Cass::

And you all think *I'M* the one with the problem?

:: She asked with an astonished chuckle::

Ava is ready to mop the floor with Cass. Sure I want to place catch with a brick to Vivica's face...but I'll wait until I'm somehwere else to do that.

:: She knows Ava wouldn't be messy at Blaze's party, but She smiles at the thought of smashing Vivica's face in with a brick. The fact that Ava's reaction to Cass was not unlike Alycia's was to Vivica wasn't lost on the two men she was standing with right now.::

 

[Ruby]

The Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

:: Cass was talking away when Cameron came to greet everyone in the semi-group. He made his way around, like the owner of a fancy-pants hotel SHOULD. Cass was next ‘in line’. ::

"Good to see you CJ...but it seems like you forgot to finish your DRESS! Nice!"

:: Cass chuckled and hugged him. Then something she didn’t expect happened, though she probably should’ve expected it. ::

Cameron: "I see Nicolas and Haleigh got to you before I did...I'm glad they are attempting to help you learn how to sustain yourself in a proper manner..but don't let something like that happen on my property ever again...We've only just come out of hiding...and you NEVER know who might be watching you, CJ...just food for thought. Don't get mad..or sad...just take in the information and GROW from it..."

:: Cass wasn’t TOO thrilled about being ‘mind-raped’ by Cameron, but oh well. She hugged back and stepped out of her comfort zone a bit more and kissed him on the temple in acknowledgement of what he ‘said’. ::

It REALLY couldn’t be helped, but I can definitely promise it won’t happen again.

:: She gave him a squeeze before letting him go. There was talking and great company and delicious booze drinks. Cass decided to have a bit of fun ‘with’ Ava. As she left and headed toward Vivica, she suddenly tripped as her heel broke off her shoe. She let out a small gasp as she tumbled to the floor! Her glass flew up in the air and she was sure it would’ve fallen on her until…it didn’t. A few drops did get on her though, but that was fine. She wasn’t HURT and that was the important part. It was embarrassing, though, but she’d save face. Cameron helped her up and she stood there, wearing one heel and smiled at everybody. ::

“Thank you! Thank YOU!”

:: She took a bow in front of all the shocked guests. ::

“Please…no need to call 9-1-1. I’m fine, I’m fine. However, this is my first and last show so there will be NO encores!”

:: She gazed around at everybody and noticed SIMON having himself a good laugh with Ava at her predicament so in a grand gesture she gave them both the two-finger salute. ::

"Well Cass..you certainly have been making one hell of an impression this weekend...Make this your last drink, eh?"

:: Cass chuckled. ::

“I’ll be nice, I promise.”

:: She accepted her drink from him and gave him a side-hug. Blaze came up to her. ::

"Cassie...you okay babe?"

Looking down at the psionic succubus' high heel.

"What MYSTERIOUSLY rotten luck...you must've gotten ahold of a..."

Glancing back at Cameron and Simon

"'Irregular pair' of these. "

“Yeah…FUNNY how that happened to a pair of CHANELS, hmmm?”

:: Blaze evaporated the drops that DID manage to find their way onto Cass and then she helped Cass calm a bit, which felt really nice, even though she was calm already. ::

’Baby’ my ass…

"I've had moments where I've totally wiped out. And you know, Morg told me that some of the models who take those epic DIVES on the runway? They're not accidents at all. They do it on purpose...because, as perverse as it may sound, sometimes THAT is what gets you the headlines!"

Giving Cass a sideways hug as she smiles.

"So don't worry. You aren't the first... and you WON'T be the last."

:: Cass smiled at her friend and nodded. ::

"I appreciate you being here and I'm pleased with how you've really opened up over the last week. You're definitely a source of intrigue, Cass. That's a PLUS. Don't let anybody here intimidate you into being silent or mousy. We've all had to find a way to FIT each other and it took time. You're just starting out later than the rest of us. Hell...*I* didn't exactly "start out" with THIS version of the Six...but now? That doesnt really matter anymore."

"All that matters is that we're here, we are open and honest and we make the most of our time together."

“Thanks Blaze. Hey, can we have a conversation after the dinner is over or something? I’d like some input on something.”

:: Blaze led her over to Vivica. ::

"Glad you made it, Viv."

"I bet this is something you didn't quite see yourself being apart of not too long ago."

"It's not so bad, is it?"

“Just don’t wear expensive heels…”

:: She winked at Vivica. ::

 

[Black Widow]

Cameron: Hales! Looking a little frisky tonight! I like it...feels good to have you back for sure!

"It's good to be back, Stud."

Cameron: Somebody's gotta keep that sister of your's in line. I hear she's slowly trying to christen every private space of this hotel...the family resemblance is striking.

"Hey, she's a big girl. I just hope I set a good example for her."

She replied with a smirk.

Cameron: Looking forward to catching up with you later...

"Me too. A little digestif under the stars? I'll have brandy, you'll have a cigar..... It'll be like old times on the roof of Illustra."

Simon: Scary Big Sister! Nice to see you again! Don't worry, I've been a very good boy. I promise.

Haleigh smiled wickedly. She could tell Simon was the kind of person to make jokes in order to compensate for being uncomfortable. Based on his comment, she knew he'd gotten the message from last night but was trying to take the edge off of it with humor. That was fine. As long as he WAS a 'good boy', then what he did with Ava was between them.

You had to give Cass some credit, she wasn't going to take an insult sitting down. For a split second after Cass's hand made contact with Ava's ass, time seemed to stop. Haleigh made eye contact with Simon, and both reacted simultaneously to prevent Cass from being decapitated. Haleigh was plenty strong enough to hold back her sister with one hand and not even jostle her wine in the other, but Simon was cute for trying to help.

"Okay sis, alright, we're in public, there are witnesses, so lock it down."

Ava huffed and then got herself under control, so Haleigh relaxed her grip. Simon's eyes fully sparkled and Cass took a nose dive. Simon toasted gravity and Haleigh was the opposite of amused. She'd only known Cass for like five seconds, but as far as Haleigh was concerned, Cass was one of the Six, and Simon was just someone her sister was sportfucking. And NOBODY messed with a member of the Six while Haleigh was around. Since pretty much the entire room was focused on helping Cass, most would not notice Haleigh's reaction.

She grabbed Simon forcefully by the tie and yanked him in close.

"I appreciate the gesture you were trying to make for Ava, however...... we are pretending to be fucking civilized, so if you try some shit like that again, I'll rip your balls off and launch them so high, even GRAVITY won't be able to return them to you."

She turned to Ava, releasing Simon as an afterthought.

"Sorry sis. I can't allow him to retaliate any more than we can allow HER to get away with that kind of blatant disrespect."

Ava: You might want to give her a history lesson before she pulls another stunt like that.

"Oh, she'll get a lesson, alright."

She intoned, as she prowled away to where Blaze, Vivica and Cass were talking. She grabbed Cass by the elbow and hauled her off to an empty corner of the room. Sighing, she took Cass's crippled heel, snapped it off the rest of the way, and with her back to the staff of Starlight, constructed a polished aluminum stiletto on the back of the shoe, returning it to wearable status.

"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."

 

[Longshot]

Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

The Six was a far more perceptive group than he gave them credit for. However, the amount of how many fucks he gave about people's opinion on what just transpired was slim to none. He had recently discovered that he would do almost anything if it caused Ava to soften and maybe even laugh, so he would take his punishment like a good boy..but to be honest? He didn't really feel bad.

As others began to pick up the pieces and smooth things over, he laughed quietly to himself. Everyone seemed to be working overtime to make sure Cass wasn't embarrassed, but she seemed fine and really all of the looks and hushed talk he heard about him in those moments only caused him to want to roll his eyes and take a drink of his cocktail. It was a simple joke, and to be honest, she'd been seen in FAR more sensitive poses last night, and THOSE were plastered all over the internet. Cameron started walking over to him as he felt a YANK in his tie and he was brought down eye to eye with Haleigh who now OFFICIALLY reinforced the reputation she was trying to portray to him last night.

Haleigh: "I appreciate the gesture you were trying to make for Ava, however...... we are pretending to be fucking civilized, so if you try some shit like that again, I'll rip your balls off and launch them so high, even GRAVITY won't be able to return them to you."

He made a small choking noise as Haleigh tightened her grip on him.

"Point...taken...sis..."

Black Widow threw him back as she turned to Ava.

Haleigh: "Sorry sis. I can't allow him to retaliate any more than we can allow HER to get away with that kind of blatant disrespect."

Simon understood that. Haleigh was a bad ass but at least she was a fair one. He began to take a liking to her at this moment, and he had DEFINITELY just experienced the Cassadine family resemblance.

Ava: "You might want to give her a history lesson before she pulls another stunt like that."

Haleigh: "Oh, she'll get a lesson, alright."

As Haleigh passed Cameron on her way to Cass, he made his way over to Simon and spoke his peace.

Cameron: Ava? Down Girl.

She gave him a kind of 'Who Me?' kind of look before the telepath turned his glance at Simon and spoke to him in his mind.

Cameron: [thought call] "Funny, Pratt...but not amusing in the slightest. I'm not about to berate you in front of your new boss..but we made a deal..and if you keep up THAT kind of shit...I'm going to personally make you MY plaything. What would the papers think of that!"

Simon's nose curled up as Cameron FLICKED him before walking off. Simon shuddered at being a part of Cameron King's SEX games...one for obvious reasons...guys? Not his deal...and secondly because that probably meant he'd have to get it on with that Alycia woman, who seemed about as inviting and warm as a concentration camp. Once Ava and Simon were alone he looked over at her the way a puppy might look at a person after chewing on their favorite pair of shoes. Guilty, but adorable.

"Hey! you said play nice with KAREN...you didn't say anything about the rest of them...and come on...at least this way you won't have to deal with getting bloodstains out of black silk. It's not easy..."

The bartender came around and refreshed Simon's drink as he looked around, his eyes once again moving towards the beautiful and inviting grand piano. He turned to Ava.

"Man, I'd love to play that thing...but a this point...it'd just be showboating, right? Too much?"

He laughed. He could tell that most of the time although Ava LOOKED like she wanted to stab him, she WAS amused by him...and in this instance, they were both two 'guilty pups'.

"I like your sister by the way. She kind of scares the hell out of me...but i'm not sure if it's fear...arousal..or a mixture of both...[looking at Ava's confused glance] I have a thing for dominating women...what can I say?"

 

[Persephone]

Everyone seemed to rush to Cass' aid, which made Ava roll her eyes. Apparently this girl could do no wrong. AVA gets slapped and Cass gets fawned over. Watching as she stood, turned around, and made a joke of the situation to try and ease her embarrassment, she then proceeded to flip her and Simon off. Laughing methodically, Ava raised her wine glass in Cass' direction give her a good fuck you back.

Still seething by what happened, Ava nearly missed Haleigh grabbing Simon by the tie and giving him a graphic yet very real warning. Even her SISTER was defending this headcase! Shaking her head in disbelief, Ava glanced over at Haleigh.

Haleigh: "Sorry sis. I can't allow him to retaliate any more than we can allow HER to get away with that kind of blatant disrespect."

"Oh she seems to be coming out smelling like a rose."

Ava snapped, thoroughly annoyed with everyone at this point. But like Simon, Haleigh decided a few words with Cass would be better than Ava straight up ripping the bitches face off. Watching Haleigh pull her into a corner, Ava craned her neck back and turned away from the group and glancing at Simon.

"Sorry...Haleigh can be a little heavy handed. You shouldn't be taking the heat for this from either Cameron OR my sister. CASS was the one who pushed things too far....but apparently the sun shines out her scrawny little ass."

Placing her almost empty wine glass on the bartop, the tender looked at her. She needed something a hell of a lot stronger than wine if she were to be around Cass the rest of the evening.

"Scotch, double. The best label you have....."

Looking back over at Simon.

"Although I do remember telling you to play nice tonight..."

She said with a smirk. Honestly, what Simon did was fantastic and earned big points in Ava's book. However, her warning about playing nice with Karen...yeah, that probably went out the window the moment Cass fell flat on her face.

Simon: "Hey! you said play nice with KAREN...you didn't say anything about the rest of them...and come on...at least this way you won't have to deal with getting bloodstains out of black silk. It's not easy..."

"Who says any blood would be on me?"

Ava quipped with a devilish gleam in her eye. Oh she could be gorey and messy...but she could also kill someone in mere seconds without spilling a single drop of blood. The bartender finally slid Ava her double scotch straight up. Picking up the glass, she downed it immediately.

Simon: "Man, I'd love to play that thing...but a this point...it'd just be showboating, right? Too much?"

Recovering from the strong after effects of the Scotch, Ava shook her head.

"Yeah...no."

Simon: "I like your sister by the way. She kind of scares the hell out of me...but i'm not sure if it's fear...arousal..or a mixture of both...[looking at Ava's confused glance] I have a thing for dominating women...what can I say?"

Pushing the tumbler back towards the bartender, he immediately gave her another double.

"You're disturbing, Pratt. But considering you seem to be the only one on my side right now....i'll let that comment about my sister slide."

Clinking her tumbler against his, Ava slammed back another shot.

 

[Recall]

Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

Vivica took her seat and watched as the others began to filter in, only standing when Cameron, Sally, Karen and the others entered. She embraced Cameron in a warm hug as he whispered to her.

Cameron: "Hey V...You look beautiful. I'm glad you could make it...Oh yeah, I know EVERYTHING. Lunch tomorrow...I won't take no for an answer..."

She rolled her eyes. Whenever Cameron was at The Parthenon he tended to act like he was his sister. Mentally tracking the goings on of all of his friends. She took a sip of her Moscow Mule and waved her hand dismissively. She sent him a thought call as he made his way over to the other guests, making a conscious decision to turn her back as Alycia passed by.

"Well I'm glad you FINALLY know what's going on in my life, you little floozy! And yes...lunch sounds GREAT...as long as you come ALONE this time...No more SURPRISE guests..."

More and more people began to show up until Blaze herself made her GRAND debut in a beautiful and custom made gown by Sally Spectra. She looked absolutely perfect. It was almost like it was her debutante ball. As she watched Blaze make her way down and greet everybody personally, Vivica couldn't help but get a flashback or two of their encounter last night. From what she remembered, it had DEFINITELY been one for the record books. Vivica blushed for a moment as she walked over to Nicolas and began making small talk.

From the corner of her eye, she noticed Cassandra and Ava having a rather interesting and uncomfortable looking conversation. She placed her hand on Nicolas' bicep as she tilted her head in their direction, alerting him to what was going on. She couldn't help but laugh.

"That Cassie certainly seems to be getting bolder by the minute...but unless SHE wants a bullet in her neck, she should pro---"

Vivica's eyes widened as she saw Cass smack Ava on the ass and head HER way!

"Oh HELL no! Girl, don't come my way! Ain't nobody got time for THAT!"

Nicolas: "Hey you two!! I left my wallet upstairs and I figured I could sell a pic or two of you two instead of hitting the elevator. Smile like you came here together and say CHEESE!!"

She cocked her head at Nicolas in a 'WTF' motion.

"Nicki...that was real cute...but THAT cougar? [pointing to Ava] She's poised to STRIKE..."

Ava: "Oh i'll create a Polaroid moment..."

All at once Ava LUNGED at Cassandra as she kept walking towards Vivica nearly unaware of what even was going on behind her, which was very...very lucky for Cassandra.

Ava: [to Vivica] "You better keep your new pet on a short leash, Viv. We wouldn't want anything BAD to happen to her."

Vivica rolled her eyes and smirked at Ava.

"Girl, don't be dragging MY ass into this. I ain't taking another bullet for being a bystander!"

Just then out of nowhere, the young woman's heel SNAPPED in two causing her to take a VERY hard stumble forward as Vivica caught her in her arms instinctively as Cameron and Blaze ran interference, saving her drink and keeping Cass dry.

Cameron: "Well Cass..you certainly have been making one hell of an impression this weekend...Make this your last drink, eh?"

Vivica cocked her eyebrow. That was definitely no accident. Somebody in this room wanted to see Cassandra eat shit, she just didn't know who. Either way, crisis averted. Cameron began to head over to Ava and Simon as Blaze made her way over to the two of them.

"Cassie...you okay babe?"

Looking down at the psionic succubuss' high heel.

"What MYSTERIOUSLY rotten luck...you must've gotten ahold of a..."

Glancing back at Cameron and Simon

"'Irregular pair' of these. "

Firebird used the finer aspects of her elemental power to completely evaporate any liquid and trace of it from Cass' body and dress without causing any damage to her outfit and helping the girl to calm a bit with a gentle heating sensation.

"I've had moments where I've totally wiped out. And you know, Morg told me that some of the models who take those epic DIVES on the runway? They're not accidents at all. They do it on purpose...because, as perverse as it may sound, sometimes THAT is what gets you the headlines!"

Giving Cass a sideways hug as she smiles.

"So don't worry. You aren't the first... and you WON'T be the last."

Ruby: “Yeah…FUNNY how that happened to a pair of CHANELS, hmmm?”

Vivica laughed.

"Well...those aren't some crazy secret sample sale chanels, are they? It's okay girl...we've all fallen prey to the backroom at Bergdorf's..."

Vivica playfully ribbed Cass on her side as she laughed as Blaze continued.

Blaze couldn't help but feel like that was no accident, but Cass was not nearly as crafty as Morgan when it came to staging something like that and Sally didn't make OR sell "CHEAP CRAP" and speaking of Sally...SHE was the only person in this room who DIDN'T have mutant powers. Everyone else did. But Simon and Vivica's power sets weren't immediately known to everyone. At the moment, however, there was no way for her to narrow down the culprit or proove their involvement...so, for now, she allowed her suspicions to subside.

"I appreciate you being here and I'm pleased with how you've really opened up over the last week. You're definitely a source of intrigue, Cass. That's a PLUS. Don't let anybody here intimidate you into being silent or mousy. We've all had to find a way to FIT each other and it took time. You're just starting out later than the rest of us. Hell...*I* didn't exactly "start out" with THIS version of the Six...but now? That doesnt really matter anymore."

"All that matters is that we're here, we are open and honest and we make the most of our time together."

She says with more than a hint of relief in her tone as she smiles at Cass, leading her over to Vivica.

Cass: “Thanks Blaze. Hey, can we have a conversation after the dinner is over or something? I’d like some input on something.”

Blaze didn't have time to answer as Haleigh showed up, dragged Cassandra away and around the corner, away from plain sight. Vivica downed the rest of her drink like a champion, before looking at Blaze.

Blaze: "Glad you made it, Viv. I bet this is something you didn't quite see yourself being apart of not too long ago. It's not so bad, is it?"

She smiled as she gave Blaze a kiss on the cheek.

"Honestly, tonight ya'll are crazy. THIS is how I remember The Six...but hey, I wanted to stand next to you guys, I guess be careful what you ask for! You lookin' HOT tonight, Ma. Hemline is a little high for my liking, but eh..somehow reserved is a GOOD look on you! Give me a twirl!"

She grabbed Blaze by the hand and lifted it up in the air, allowing Blaze to give a ballerina twirl.

"There we go! Now...what's all this mess about tonight...what more could they POSSIBLY have in store for you...I'd ask if you are over all the attention, but something tells me you are just EATING it up!"

 

[Orion]

Ava: [sighing] I know...she's always in the way.

Haleigh: Um, whatever, I AM THE WAY.

"I.......... have nothing further to add."

He was TOO smart to make a statement in that minefield. He took a smarmy sip of his wine. As Simon introduced himself.

Simon: Hey! Nice to meet you...I'm Simon Pratt...business associate of Cameron...and well Ava's now actually.

"Zach Armani, and the pleasure is all mine. I'm a business associate of.... pretty much everybody in this room. And.... slightly more than a business associate with Haleigh here."

Simon: [to Haleigh] Scary Big Sister! Nice to see you again! Don't worry, I've been a very good boy. I promise.

Zach gulped and chuckled as Simon reacted to Haleigh. AND THEN Cameron waltzed in. And started pawing at Haleigh.

Cameron: (hugging her) Hales! Looking a little frisky tonight! I like it...feels good to have you back for sure! Somebody's gotta keep that sister of your's in line. I hear she's slowly trying to christen every private space of this hotel...the family resemblance is striking. Looking forward to catching up with you later...

Now, Zach fully respected Haleigh's rights to make her own decisions about who touched her own body and how.... but that didn't make Zach any more comfortable about Cameron King having a full body bear hug with her. He watched the interaction as intently as a cop on a stakeout. He could mask his displeasure with the rim of his wine glass, luckily.

And then his arch enemy extended a handshake, and Zach was bound by civility to accept and shake back. He made it a very FIRM grip.

Cameron: Zach Armani...glad you could make it...I know everybody missed you last night.

"Surely not EVERYBODY."

But Cameron was letting go, and turning away... and then the most incredible thing happened.... that pretty little thing that had enthralled him earlier fully SMACKED Ava's wonderful gluteus Maximus. And then promptly FELL ON HER FACE. Ava looked like she was going to commit murder, but Haleigh had it covered, as always.

Everybody reacted, and the amount of emotion in the stuffy lounge kicked Zach's one-glass-of-wine-relaxed into a mini-buzz. Haleigh snatched this random blonde guy up by the necktie.

"Okay.... everybody needs to take it down a notch."

He murmured to himself, making a gesture like an orchestra conductor signaling the diminuendo. Everyone in attendance would have a subtle mellowing of their current emotion.

Haleigh stalked off to speak with Cass alone, and Ava skulked.

Ava: Sorry...Haleigh can be a little heavy handed. You shouldn't be taking the heat for this from either Cameron OR my sister.

"Man, you managed to get partially strangled by Haleigh within the first ten minutes? Sorry bro, you can't be helped. How about a drink before you die?"

Ava: CASS was the one who pushed things too far....but apparently the sun shines out her scrawny little ass.

"Oh, does it? I must have missed the rays of light.... I guess I didn't notice her ass."

Simon (to Ava): I like your sister by the way. She kind of scares the hell out of me...but i'm not sure if it's fear...arousal..or a mixture of both...[looking at Ava's confused glance] I have a thing for dominating women...what can I say?

"Uh, she pretty much scared us ALL so... welcome to the club."

Ava: You're disturbing, Pratt. But considering you seem to be the only one on my side right now....i'll let that comment about my sister slide.

"Heh...... I'm on your side too..... do you think you could introduce me to Zeus?"

He was mostly just trying to lighten the mood.... and change the subject..... and further temper the tone in the room.

 

[Prophet]

Parthenon - Starlight Lounge

Cameron watched as Haleigh dragged Cassandra to an empty corner of the lounge and begin to talk to her. Just as he witness that he felt something rush over him. Rolling his eyes in the back of his head he shot a quick look back at Zach who was talking to Ava and Simon.

"Of COURSE Dudley Do-Right is trying to control the emotions in the room..No wonder Haleigh can't just up and dump his a--"

He stopped himself before he finished his sentence. Those thoughts were far too dangerous to entertain anymore, especially considering the development between him and Alycia...this showed progress, he thought. Especially since he wanted nothing more than to be a huge dick and use his OWN empathy to change the emotion in the room to counteract what Zach was projecting.

Quickly removing all traces of those thoughts from his mind, he walked over to Cass and Haleigh hearing the tail end of her words as he nodded to a server who promptly grabbed him a glass of the wine that Haleigh had been drinking earlier.

Haleigh: "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."

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

He handed the glass of wine to Haleigh, noticing that hers was nearly empty as he placed a hand on Cassandra's shoulder.

"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..."

[waving the server down once more as he replaced Cass's Espresso Martini for her and handed her the glass]

"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..."

He cast a look at Haleigh and smiled. It may not have been a 'pleasant' moment in the Citadel..but it WAS the moment where the two of them made a pact to look out for each other...and it was what STARTED team Haleigh & Cameron...as fucked up as THAT might have turned out to be..but really...EVERY member of The Six, considering what they'd gone through had a pretty messed up view on what a good memory was. Cameron snapped back into reality.

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