Bloodlines & Bad feelings

[Seer]

<< upon arriving on Aerie, Spellbinder explains to Isis that if they're going to properly battle and defeate Set, they need to do it as far away from humanity as possible. Not only to preserve the anonymity of the Six but to keep from revisiting the antimutant/metahuman hysteria that forced the Six into exile in the first place.>>

<< the Sisterhood, namely Malice and Enchantra had done MUCH in the way of helping the pendulum swing as the public's attention toward mutants and metahumans began to soften and change. It was something that was not lost on Morgan, who YEARNED to return to her life as a supermodel, but feared she was already too late.>>

<< on Aerie, Morgan sends out a charm to contact Alison and her mother to alert them to come to Aerie at once before they attempt to return to the Hellfire Mansion.>>

<< Aerie is an enchanted island, in plain sight, yet never seen. no matter what happens, the island will not be destroyed and it is the perfect place to confront Set while the world is once again spared from disaster.>>

<< Isis continues to stand solitary, away from Nicolas. She won't even look at him now. as her hair and cape flow in the ocean driven winds around the island. she instead quietly awaits her reunion with Malice and Enchantra, realizing that while she may have not appreciated their agressively seeking her out, she DID in fact make the wise and right choice to JOIN forces with them.>>



<< and so it begins...the time for Set is nearly over, but even after that the time for DRAMA is just about to begin.>>

 

[Harbinger]

moving along

:: outside of the vault, Alison had little time to entertain the questions of those posed about the mysterious, unbelivable objects in The Vault. instead, she handed the sceptre to Silver Swan as she manifested the larger Time Staff into her hands::


And now....

:: before she finished, she stopped, she looked up...it seemed that she was SENSING something, and sure enough, a charm appeared, that in the form of a barbie doll sized Morgan surrouned by winds and orbs.::

Morgan!

:: as Alison touched the charmed, she IMMEDIATELY realized..::

Morgan and Dominique have ESCAPED Set! and they've FREED Haleigh and Nicolas form Captivity! They're on Aerie! this makes our job THAT much more easier. We must get to Aerie now.

:: and with that, she directs Morningstar to once again transport them all via wormhole from minerva's mansion to the isle of aerie, where they find Morgan and Dominique, along with Nicolas and Isis.::

:: Alison cant help but rush to Morgan!::

Morgan! Thank the goddess you're alright!

:: the seer hugs her friend.::

We feared the worst, but were preparing with as much optimism as we could.

You have freed Nicolas and Haleigh....

:: but as she looked at Haleigh, she IMMEDIATELY became aware of what Haleigh and Nicolas had done, among other things....she continued in her pause, as if she'd lost her breath. until she finally shut her eyes and shook her head.::

....NOW we must prepare.

:: she knew. but she couldnt say anythign NOW. it would be foolish to derail from the more pressing matter and besides, THIS was something that was meant for someone ELSE to reveal.::

:: she looked at Morgan and Dominique::

Isis....we know the story, what has happened...and...I am truly sorry for your loss. whether we are meant to be enemies or not, no one sh ould have to suffer what you and your sister endured.

:: the seer spoke with sensitivity to the avatar.::

 

[Black Widow]

Morgan helped Haleigh to her feet.... oh.... she doesn't know. Now isn't the time to tell her.... oh, Morgan.... if only you had listened when I said that you were BETTER OFF without us. Nicolas mourned his mother.... Haleigh mourned Morgan and the pain she would eventually endure, as they all went back to Aerie to prepare for a final showdown with Set.

As they reappeared, Isis refused to look at Nicolas... but Haleigh stared at him. her expression was blank enough to hide her feelings from the others.... but she was at once angry with him and sorry for him. Haleigh realized that SET had been behind it all... that Nicolas had been FREED of Set in the same way HALEIGH had been... but on some level... she still felt hurt by Nicolas. Like her faith in him had been shaken afterall. He was a telepath... and he had let Set manipulate her and take advantage.

Haleigh covered her eyes with one hand again, rubbing them as if she had a headache. The worst feeling of all was that she was disgusted with herself... for giving in. for indulging feelings that were better off were she'd buried them.

But that was her cross to bear now... the task at hand was to destroy Set and Haleigh needed to pull herself together for that. Alison and the rest appeared... Alison RUSHED Morgan, relieved that they were all alright... but she paused as she looked at Haleigh.... Haleigh exhaled slowly... she knew Alison KNEW... but the Seer didn't say anything... didn't expose them for the traitors they were. She too conceded that now was NOT the ideal time to do it. And so Haleigh nodded... and agreed, back to herself-- her tortured self-- but herself nonetheless again.

"Alison is right. Set manipulated me.... [reluctantly] and Nicolas, too.... but Morgan saved us both.... and now it's time to make Set PAY for what he's done to ALL of us. What's the plan of attack?"

She asked, gesturing to the Time Staff and Sharon holding the sceptor of Isis. She hastily pulled off the dress, revealing her own battle dress uniform, which had appeared on her already. The gold bracelets, the arm rings disappeared.... and so too did the NECKLACE Nicolas was still wearing.... the one she'd put on him... secretly... she surrendered to the fact that though she could erase the evidence of what had happened between them... she could never take it back... and even more secretly... part of her didn't WANT to. But she buried that quickly.... it was of no use to her now.... it would only cause MORE pain.

 

[Spellbinder]

on Aerie

<< On Aerie, Nicolas was mourning his mother and Morgan took a few moments to try to help him. She was VERY reluctant at first, and this was WITHOUT even knowing what he and Haleigh had done, but she placed a hand on his back and held one of his hands with the other.>>

Nicolas, I know it must be terrible right this minute, struggling with what you have learned, but in order for you...for you to know the TRUTH about things, to realize that it ISNT your fault...we'll have to tell you the story. the REAL story.

Even if Isis doesnt want you around, when this is over, you'll still have a place here with us...the family that Ororo brought you to. We'll help you...

<< she rubs his back reassuringly, with no idea that ANOTHER pair of hands were on his back not so long ago, that ANOTHER woman's voice was so close to him.>>

<< she helps him to a rock to sit on, and looks at Isis who stands away, refusing to even look at Nicolas. Morgan understands the feeling Isis has. SHE was the same way after the Inferno when it came to Cameron and Haleigh...she couldnt abide their presence, but Morgan hoped for Dominique's sake and Nicolas' that the woman would come around eventually. Maybe not NOW, but when the time was right. The gift she could give Nicolas just by acknowledging him, sharing with him about his mother...it was something that no one else could match.>>

The others will be here soon as Alison or my mother sees the charm...

<< and with that, she leaves Nicolas to sit and gather himself. Morgan had a brief impulse to kiss him on the cheek, but something inside of her said "no"...something told her to "hold off"... woman's intuition? either way, she'd be glad she did...once she found out the REST of the story.>>

<< she moved away , in time to be greeted by Alison and the others.>>

Alison! thank the goddess you all are all right!

<< she hugs her mother, Blaze and Delilah as well.>>

He didnt hurt any of you!

<< As Alison paused for a moment while looking at Haleigh, Morgan looked at Alison and the Haleigh. But as Alison turned her full attention to the task at hand, Morgan too moved on and nodded in agreement.>>

Right. Dominique told me everything about who set is , how Nicolas came to be here.

Alison: I discovered that as well with my power as a Seer, using a diary that I found in Dominique's quarters in the Hellfire Mansion. The sisterhood and the six have formed a truce, in order to better ensure the defeat of Set.

Morgan: under the circumstances, I'd say that was a sound move. Dominique and I worked together to escape Set AND free Haleigh and Nicolas.

Alison: There is just one thing. I need to speak to Dominique.

<< Alison directs Sharon to hand Morgan the sceptre of Isis which is wrapped in cloth. the two women move over toward Dominique to talk with her, leaving the others to look upon Haleigh and Nicolas who sat a few feet away looking terribly distraught. >>

 

[Firebird]

Blaze watched from near the side of the group as Alison handed the sceptre to Silver Swan as she manifested the larger Time Staff in her hands. “Very cool!” She exclaimed watching with intrigue. “Alison?” Blaze inquired, unsure if the Seer had a vision or what happened.

Firebird’s heart dropped at the mention of Morgan, “Is she okay?” Worry melted along her soul, unsure what Alison was seeing or sensing until she confirmed it. “Oh Thank God!” Placing a hand across her heart to exhale a sigh of relief.

Being teleported via wormhole by Morningstar, “I REALLY love your power, D.”

Alison was the first to run over to Morgan while Blaze ran over to Haleigh. “Girl, you scared the HELL out of me!” Leaning down to gingerly hug the hybrid, mindful of how she looked and felt. Crouching down she reached out to Nicolas as well, “I’m so glad the both of you are okay!” Warm-green eyes surveyed both of them as she leaned in closer, inhaling the air around them. The fire elemental’s keen senses had detected the scent of Nicolas on Haleigh. A brow quirked but she figured since they were together it was probably nothing sexual so she waved the thought off. “You two crazy kids need to try and take it easy.” Blaze moved away to see her sister.

Without a second word, Blaze turned to hug Morgan, offering her sister a squeeze. “And YOU, I should kick your butt.” Playfully Blaze punched her sister in the shoulder with a smile. Stepping back to allow the others to hug Morgan, Blaze felt so relieved to have them all back in one piece.

 

[Harbinger]

back on Aerie

:: as She and Spellbinder made their way to Dominique, Alison turns to Morgan::

I'm giving her the sceptre of Isis, Morgan.

:: Spellbinder immediately looks at her friend with a surprised expression::

Spellbinder: are you serious!?

:: Alison looks at Morgan::

Yes, I am. It is the logical thing to do. Dominique may not be on "our side" per se, but she IS the avatar to Isis, egyptian goddess of rebirth and magick. If her destiny is to not only be Isis' living avatar but to keep Set at bay just as Isis the goddess once did for their village before Nicolas' mother BROKE the covenant!

She needs ALL of the power and mantle of Isis the goddess in order to be able to do that, my vision as a seer, coupled with Persephone's information has lead me to the conclusion that this is the right choice..the ONLY choice.

Spellbinder: << looking at her friend, she nods.>> and I accept that, Seer.

:: and so the two women reach Isis.::

Isis....DOMINIQUE...I have something that belongs to you.

:: she nods to Morgan to unwrap the sceptre of Isis. the exquisite, wand fashioned from the purest of gold. ancient egyptian heiroglypics depicting life and magick are etched around the wand and the pure opal jewel orb rests at the top, encircled by pure golden rings. it glistenes, and the opal jewel orb immediately glows and hums as it senses the avatar.::

The Sceptre of Isis. It was found by famed archeologist, Dr. Barbara Minerva in the 1930's...and has been in her custody and care ever since. Once i became the Harbinger, I inherited her estate, as well as her mantle as keeper of the world's ancient/mysterious artifacts. This was among them. I know you tried to take it by force weeks ago...but i'm GIVING it to you now. This situation, it goes BEYOND good or evil. You are the avatar for Isis the goddess, and YOU are charged with keeping Set at bay from this world. You can't do that effectively unless you have access to ALL of the goddess' power and mantle. this wand COMPLETES the transformation and ensures that whatever you choose to allign yourself with...even the Sisterhood, you will STILL answer your true destiny.

:: Morgan hands the wand to Dominique::

Take it, go forward with it...and use it to keep this world safe from that MONSTER.

:: Morgan and Alison nod to Isis in agreement.::

 

[Isis]

a personal reunion

[ the wind and the ocean provided a lulling effect for Dominique as her heart churned. Conflicted to the point of nausea. She felt a sliver of sympathy for Nicolas as he was liberated, as he reached out for the image of his mother...crying. He was HER blood. Shouldnt she use her abilities as the avatar of Isis , in addition to being his aunt to help him? ]

[ she clenched her fist and shut her eyes tightly, not immediately acknowledging the arrival of the Six and the Sisterhood. She had imagined how her meeting with Nicolas would go. She wanted it to be short, sweet and to the point...with his DEATH. Justice for her sister! nothing more. CERTAINLY nothing like this. But the RUNE she placed on him, it was an ancient spell "to reveal the TRUTH about oneself"...and she DID that, it just came out in a way that even she wasnt prepared for.]

[ now, with the help of Spellbinder, she had destroyed the rune and severed the connection between Nicolas and Set. But why didnt she feel any BETTER!? She struck Set, but he escaped. Would there EVER be justice for her sister?]

[ Malice and Enchantra were there, and Isis was glad to have the Sisterhood back in her midst but before she would turn to see any of them, Spellbinder and Harbinger approached her.]

yes? what is it?

[ she said, mildly irritated that she couldnt enjoy a longer of solitude on this striking and beautifull island.]

I have something that belongs to you.

:: she nods to Morgan to unwrap the sceptre of Isis. the exquisite, wand fashioned from the purest of gold. ancient egyptian heiroglypics depicting life and magick are etched around the wand and the pure opal jewel orb rests at the top, encircled by pure golden rings. it glistenes, and the opal jewel orb immediately glows and hums as it senses the avatar.::

The Sceptre of Isis. It was found by famed archeologist, Dr. Barbara Minerva in the 1930's...and has been in her custody and care ever since. Once i became the Harbinger, I inherited her estate, as well as her mantle as keeper of the world's ancient/mysterious artifacts. This was among them. I know you tried to take it by force weeks ago...but i'm GIVING it to you now. This situation, it goes BEYOND good or evil. You are the avatar for Isis the goddess, and YOU are charged with keeping Set at bay from this world. You can't do that effectively unless you have access to ALL of the goddess' power and mantle. this wand COMPLETES the transformation and ensures that whatever you choose to allign yourself with...even the Sisterhood, you will STILL answer your true destiny.

[ Isis' opal blue eyes, which strikingly MATCH the pure opal jewel orb at the top of the wand, WIDEN with disbelief. but she carefully kept herself from showing too much surprise.]

I radiate with the wisdom of the goddess of rebirth and magick. I rest in the power of her calming, gentle rule and energy. Through her i was reborn..and now, with her wand, i am complete. I serve her and i will fullfill my destiny in her name...

a soft reaffirmation as she grasps the wand and holds it up...a jagged bolt of golden energy crashes down as Isis fully bonded with her patron diety and then returned to her normal appearence, now wearing the a headdress that was crowned with a matching opal gem to the one in the wand.

[she looks at Alison and Morgan]

I know it was not an easy thing for you, to give this to me, considering that I tried to take it by force. Circumstances beyond both our imaginations brought it here to me and i thank you for releasing it to me. Now we can address the nightmare of Set...permanently.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas was despondent, furious that not only had he done such things at Set's bidding, but also that he had hurt Haleigh and Morgan in the way that he had. He simply looked down, eyes shut as he sat alone. Morgan rubbed his back, reassuring him that they would keep him as family. He did not react immediately aside of a slow nod, fearing in his heart that Set had made him one of his...by making sure he would have NO ONE ELSE!

As Blaze came up, he was grateful for her concern, and he touched her hand briefly and looked at her. However, as she began to stand closer to them, her facial expression became quizzical and Nicolas was stricken with shame as he felt certain that somehow, she KNEW what had occurred. Nicolas quickly averted his gaze, consumed with shame and...ANGER. Anger at Set for what he had done to them.

He had been with Haleigh, and he knew that the revelation of that act alone would be a disaster in short order. The thing that ate at him even more was: how much prodding did he need, did EITHER of them need for that to happen?

He simply shook his head and sent a message, encrypted in binary code, to Haleigh.

Haleigh, I am so sorry. I never meant to hurt you. You would have been better off abandoning me long ago. I only seem to bring pain to those I love.

 

[Spellbinder]

on Aerie!

<< Spellbinder looked on as Isis took the sceptre and immediately bonded with it. Much like Harbinger with her time staff and Morgan with her soul sword...this was a necessary piece to Isis' tapestry and though she might not be on "their side" after this was over. if they stopped her from having the full mantle of the goddess, they could only blame themselves if Set was able to return.>>

<< as Isis manifested the full "aspect" of the goddess Isis in one golden moment, Morgan looked upon the manifestation with intrigue. The avatar then thanked them, knowing it must not have been an easy descision.>>

this goes beyond good and evil remember? this is your destiny and it is the RIGHT thing to do. I trust Alison's judgement. She is a seer and has better clarity than most.

If we DIDNT give you this...then we'd be selfish and short sighted...and we could only blame ourselves for the consequences. The "politics" of this doesnt matter.

And whatever happens after this...I thank you for helping me. Had our groups not come together on this...there might not be a "whatever happens after".

<< and with that, Morgan and Alison leave Isis to her own thoughts.>>

<< Morgan is greeted by the alternate of her sister, who is as playfull as a kitten, even in daunting moments like this. Morgan smiles a bit as she looks down at Firebird, who is a few inches taller than mainstream Blaze was.>>

you couldnt kick my but on your best day...you flaming canary!


<< she looks at the others, noticing as the sisterhood goes over to see Dominique.>>

I'm glad everyone is allright. it was unpleasant being captive of Set, but it seemed almost TOO quiet while we were there. he lead Haleigh away from us...and left us alone. foolish of him to leave two sorceress' together, but it worked to our advantage.

Still...if I was captured and Dominique was captured, why did he try to do anything MORE with us?? Why was he speaking to Haleigh about being Nicolas' QUEEN of all things?

<< she said as she looked at Alison, then at Haleigh...who she had seen in the scrying glass with Nicolas, standing/relating VERY closely to him as they addressed Set.>>

It almost seems like...

<< the waves and the waters continued to roll around the island.>>

I dont know...but it just seems strange now.

<< she was so close, and it might have even briefly occurred to her that they had DONE something, but it didnt click right away. she HADNT seen it, and WHY would Haleigh do something like that...after she PROMISED to watch out for and help Morgan? why would NICOLAS do that?? still, it wasnt there in her face YET.>>

Well, we'd better get ready. there isnt much time. Alison, what have you come up with?

 

[Persephone]

:: As the six and the sisterhood retrieved the scepter of Isis, Alison revealed that Morgan, Haleigh, Dominique, and Nicolas had all returned to Aerie. Delilah opened a wormhole and as quickly as they were at Minerva's mansion, they were on Aerie. ::

"Haleigh!"

:: In the same fashion Alison was urgently walking to Morgan, Ava did the same to her sister. Embracing her Haleigh, she held her tightly; a sigh of relief escaping her lips. ::

"I was so worried....[shutting her eyes for a moment] Did he hurt you? Are you okay?"

:: Pulling away from Haleigh, physically she seemed sound, but her expression told Ava that something had happened during her capture. It was a subtle look....something that only Ava would be able to notice. It was that defeated look she had seen in the past. Deciding not to dive into a game of 20 questions just yet, Set was still on the loose and needed to be dealt with. When he was taken care of she would inquire about what had happened... ::

:: Watching Alison, Morgan, and Dominique go off to talk about the scepter of Isis, Persephone lifted her eyes to the sky, noticing the slight temperature decrease and the darkened clouds. ::

"There's an abnormal change in the weather.....Set's coming."

 

[Malice]

on Aerie

:: Malice was beyond the point of trying to tolerate Mike. He overestimated himself and his worth. The NEXT time she saw him after this, she'd REMIND him of why it was not a smart thing to cross swords with a TELEPATH.::

:: She was well aware of the truce, but Malice STILL took the liberty of telepathically scanning the minds of the soldiers in the VAULT, gaining whatever information she could about accessing the vault from their minds. It only responded to the person who was mistress of the mansion and by extension, the guardian of the vault.::

:: the vault housed exquisite treasures, many believed to be myth by the average man, and it would be the perfect place to plunder. There were several objects, most notably the "Rings of Mandarin" that Malice had her eye on. the Mento-Intensifier ring would amplify Malice's already considerable power to a level beyond earth level of rating.::

:: it may not have been "tastefull" for her to think about it, but who cares? she made her own rules and thus far, she'd gone unchecked by FEW about it. By helping the Six, she would ensure that the Sisterhood would survive along side them to pursue their own interests and if that meant clashing with them again? so be it. Where Nicolas was concerned, EVERYONE should join forces to destroy him and if Malice could find a way to facilitate that, she would.::

:: but even SHE didnt know how EASY and how SOON that "way" would come to her.::

:: As Harbinger indicated that the others had escaped, that Spellbinder and Isis had liberated themselves, Malice smirked.::

to Enchantra: well, that eliminates ONE justification we have for trying to kill the boy. but if i wait long enough, another may present itself soon.

:: and so they went to Dominique who stood away from the others.::

you're alive and whole. a testament to your ability. i'm...sorry, we were not able to better help you. that monster took everyone by surprise, even me. but the rematch will be a different story.

the sisterhood will live on to pursue its interests and we will not live in fear of that raving lunatic bastard child, Nicolas.

:: looking at the wand::

well, one thing to be said for times of disaster and emergency, you can count on the most UNEXPECTED things happening.

So, what did you see, while you were away from us?

:: she was genuinely concerned about Dominique, but she also wanted to see if there was any information she might be able to use. the turmoil that Haleigh was in registered like a fire to a moth. so too did the covert communication from Nicolas to Haleigh. Haleigh always knew that if Malice pressed and focused enough, she would decode the binary pattern, but the telepath played it discreet and decided not to go that far YET.::

telepathically to Enchantra: something's up with Haleigh, and it has something to do with NICOLAS. Firebird suspects something too, and from the looks Harbinger was giving a second ago...i think that opportunity that i was looking for is close at hand!





telepathically to Enchantra: it's like being teased. these things, many of which would be of use to us, are now out of our reach...because we're "on a mission". that stupid boy, Nicolas. he shouldve been drowned at birth.

:: she remained silent and observed as Alison retrieved the wand, and once outside the vault

 

[MorningStar]

Alison led them into the vault and to the scepter. Delilah felt as if she should whisper in this place, among these things. The scepter itself was beautiful – ancient and priceless. Now that they had what they came for, and they had insured Pandora would be okay, on Alison’s request Delilah transported them to Aerie, where they would find Morgan and Haleigh returned – as well as Isis and Nicolas.

She returned Morgan’s hug, relieved that Set had not done to them as she had feared.

“It’s good to have you back.”

Alison and Morgan took Isis aside, leaving the rest staring at each other. It was still strange being this close to their mortal enemies – what were they supposed to do, make small talk? She glanced over at Haleigh as Ava checked her over. Something was wrong with her, and she didn’t think it was an injury. She seemed nervous…but Delilah knew Haleigh. She would shake off whatever it was for the battle. If anyone could compartmentalize their emotions, it was Haleigh. But there was definitely more to the story than Morgan had told them.

Persephone warned them of Set’s presence on the air. Now that they were all back together again, Delilah felt reaffirmed, a sense of newfound hope. Here on Aerie they stood a chance.

Delilah looked up at the darkening sky.

“Bring him on.”

 

[Harbinger]

preparing.

:: Harbinger indicated everyone to gather around. As Persephone warned of the change in the weather, she continued on.::

Arsenal, Morningstar, Persephone, you all put these on.

:: these head accessories, "circlets" that lookd like headbands. each one imbued with a topaz jewel and charmed by Alison::

These will provided you with protect you. they have been charmed by me and with the techniques Malice has taught you, you will be all the more insulated.

:: grudgingly, she continues.::

Infuriating as he has been, Mike offered one sound suggestion, about pairing off. To that end, Malice, you and Enchantra will stay together. I will be with Shadow Weaver. Firebird, Persephone, Morningstar. Spellbinder and Isis. with the arrival of Black Widow and Rampage, I will place Silver Swan with Black Widow due to the compatability of several aspects of their power. Arsenal, you are the least suited to deal with Set. I realize that you want to help...but you must stay back. The more time someone has to devote to helping you out of a jam is less time they have to deal with Set. He's going to try to use you...and so, I'm going to put you inside of a crystal cage it will protect you from him completely.

:: she knew he would object but she didnt care. unless he could find one reason WHY she should allow him on the front line of this battle, he was going inside the crystal cage. She would do the same thing to Alycia if it were here standing there.::

the rest of us, are going to spread out. using the space and terrain of the island. Spellbinder, Isis, use your magick flood the area with enchantments and warding spells...make it like walking through a MINE FIELD for him.

Isis, will cast a cloaking spell and Enchantra will supplement that with her power to make it that much for him to lock on to anyone and locate.

I'll cast the "hearing thoughts spell" for those with psi screens to communicate with each other, WITHOUT speaking aloud. Malice will serve as the psychic switch board for those without psi screens.



We're going to force him to go after one group at a time. He can't be everywhere at once and while he may THINK he's a god unlike any other we've seen...we know he's a god with feet of clay. He thinks we have never faced someone like him before, when we have...the olympians. with Isis now fully connected to the name and mantle of her patron diety, she will be prepared to do what she must.

We'll have to soften him up, and personally, i will take GREAT pleasure in that. work with your partner. use your powers and hit him HARD. Don't HOLD BACK!

 

[Arsenal]

Mike was becoming increasingly agitated with the attitude of the team towards him. It was no use being here if he had no chance to act. So he spoke up as Alison suggested a crystal cage.

Really?! A crystal cage. Then why protect me mentally if you plan to cordon me off?! Besides, if you lose, I am stuck in a damn cage to watch. And I have had my moments to be of help in the past. With the mental protection you have afforded me, I may be of use to you. I am not possibly of use to you stuck in a cage.


Mike was pleading at this point. He did not wish to be a rat, trapped in a cage while the cats played with one another...

 

[Harbinger]

on Aerie

:: she stands, now with her hands on her hips as she leans in toward Mike. her blue/black hair blowing in the wind.::

Look...Do you want to DIE!? And if you DO, what is to stop Nicolas from blaming US for your death? or causing him to MELTDOWN!? just LOOK at him! he's already in a bad state as it is!

I'm JUST trying to protect you.

We don't want what happened to Alycia at Arklay to happen to you. We SHOULDNT have allowed HER to come back to the mansion with us...we BARELY succeeded in saving her from infection of the T-Virus.

You'll notice that she's no where to be found. the TRAUMA of that entire experience made her want to LEAVE US. She's happy now, in Themyscria. MAYBE she'll come back...but it took her nearly DYING in Arklay, and having her life RIPPED APART by Bishop to cause her to leave us.

Do YOU want the same thing to happen to YOU?

No one is thinking LESS of you...we just want you to be SAFE and we SAW how Set regarded you LAST time. If Shadow Weaver had not intervened, you'd be dead NOW...and are you REALLY ready to risk your life for someone who so EASILY was prepared to strike you down?

:: referring to Nicolas, whom she didnt care IF he heard, considering what she now knew about his affair with haleigh.::

 

[Arsenal]

No one is thinking LESS of you...we just want you to be SAFE and we SAW how Set regarded you LAST time. If Shadow Weaver had not intervened, you'd be dead NOW...and are you REALLY ready to risk your life for someone who so EASILY was prepared to strike you down?

I am, as I was for YOU and Ava who more likely will kill me one day because of my big mouth, <<chuckles>> and as I have been for YEARS. Nicolas could have killed me by accident as a CHILD. I cannot live my life trying to dodge death. If it comes it comes, and I will not live my life trying to cheat what is to come. Besides if we fail here, what use will it be for me to live?

 

[Black Widow]

It was warm reunions all around... Blaze was genuinely happy to see Haleigh, pulling her into a hug... Haleigh offered a feeble smile, but that was about all she could muster for the fire elemental. yeah.... you're glad... for now. Thankfully Blaze moved on quickly to Morgan... and Haleigh was lucky in that no one asked any questions... not yet anyway. She knew the moment would come... and she knew just as well that she couldn't bear lying to them all about it.... but when it was time, she'd face it, ready or not. Ava hugged her next.... and Haleigh closed her eyes, her brow softly creased, just melting into her sister's embrace. It was comforting... Haleigh knew that despite what she'd done.... at least AVA wouldn't hate her. Disagree, probably.... but she'd still stand by her and that alone seemed to keep Haleigh from an emotional breakdown. Ava asked if she'd been hurt.... if she was okay. the short answer was yes and no.... but there were so many variables that Haleigh just looked at her... trusting that she wouldn't press for information....

"He hurt us all, Ava..... some of you just haven't realized it yet."

Haleigh whispered, as she hugged Ava back. and thankfully, Ava didnt try to get any answers.... the cryptic response was enough to signal her to wait until later for an explanation. Ava called attention to the weather.... to Set's imminent arrival... and while the others talked about that [and handed off the sceptor to Isis] Nicolas' voice sounded off in Haleigh's mind. the others were too occupied to see.... Haleigh's expression registered grief, ANGER momentarily, and then went blank again.

oh, you're SORRY, are you? Is that IT? Is that ALL you have to say to me? You think that's all you're obligated to say?? I mean SHIT, Nicolas, you won't even LOOK AT ME! WHY?!? Did you get everything you NEEDED from me? Is that ALL I AM to YOU?! Well you can GO TO HELL and take your APOLOGY with you. I don't need it. I'll fucking GET OVER IT on my own. [spitefully] Thanks for making me moan, Nicolas. I know now that it's ALL I should have ever expected from you.

She shot back bitterly through mindspeak. But as soon as she did.... BOTH of them would know that she didn't really MEAN it.... that she'd only 'said' it to be vindictive and to protect her wounded heart. With anyone else... it would have worked.... but Nicolas was a telepath and would see through it easily. Haleigh sighed quietly and readdressed him.

No.... now I'm the one who's sorry.... I was trying to be cruel. I'm not ANGRY with YOU.... just disappointed. Logically I realize that you were likely as coerced as I.... what with the rune and all. Still.... it doesn't ease any suffering, does it? It won't soften the blow. You may not have meant to hurt me... Set was behind it, I know.... but that hardly helps. I made my CHOICE, Nicolas. I denied those impulses for a REASON... I didn't want to hurt Morgan. I had control.... Set took that away from me and you.... you just LET him.... I don't know what's MORE disturbing, Nicolas.... the idea that you COULDN'T stop him.... or the thought that you just didn't WANT to. did you take advantage of me? .... or did you simply fail to protect me from that monster?

She thought, gazing off into the distance to avoid attracting any MORE attention by glaring at Nicolas, though she did WANT to search his expression for answers.

Still...if I was captured and Dominique was captured, why did he try to do anything MORE with us?? Why was he speaking to Haleigh about being Nicolas' QUEEN of all things?

<< she said as she looked at Alison, then at Haleigh...who she had seen in the scrying glass with Nicolas, standing/relating VERY closely to him as they addressed Set.>>

It almost seems like...

<< the waves and the waters continued to roll around the island.>>

I dont know...but it just seems strange now.

Morgan's inquiry snapped Haleigh's attention back to the group. Her expression was surprisingly composed for someone in her postition.... Morgan was getting close... intuitively, she was picking up on the signs that something was not quite right. For the sake of keeping the group together in the battle against Set, Haleigh offered a neutral, more or less innocent sounding excuse.

"Set probably heard what you'd said... about Nicolas and how you felt about what he'd done to Isis... I guess he thought I would be more primed to be.... whatever he wanted me to be. [frustrated] I guess he was RIGHT.... he played me like a goddamned HARP. [sighing heavily] His connection to Nicolas is probably what allowed him to overcome my 'firewalls'... he must have been able to read my binary code. But you, with your PSI screen... you would have been more work. [dejected] I was easier to subjugate."

It was entirely true.... but not the ENTIRE truth. She spoke in conjecture and left out the events. It may have been a little on the deceptive side and thus, deplorable of her... but she did it with the right intentions. Alison laid out the plan, pairing her with Sharon. Haleigh nodded. They were very similar in composition and their powers would work in concert, as would many of the other pairs.... but Alison wanted to disclude Mike on the basis that he was only human... Haleigh didn't FEEL like arguing with Alison.... but she thought that if Mike WANTED to fight... he ought to be allowed to.

"Oh, Alison.... just let him fight. We ALL face death here... ANY of us could die and just because he's human doesn't mean he can't be of any use to us. Hell, maybe if Set is too busy trying to kill MIKE, one of US will find an open shot. He can't possibly stave us ALL off. Isn't the IDEA to have as many of US against HIM as we can?"

 

[Persephone]

:: With a roll of her eyes, Ava damn near just about had it with Mike and his grand stands and holiar than thou talk. ::

"Just let him go, Alison. If he dies we'll just have one less annoying GNAT to deal with."

:: For a human Mike did show great courage in the face of dangerous obstacles. However, he was just that; HUMAN. There was only so much his altered suites and fancy weapons could do for him. If he didn't die tonight at the hands of Set, he would in a future battle. OR maybe at the hands of someone on his own TEAM if he didn't tighten his lip every so often. ::

:: Harbinger gathered everyone together and teamed them off into groups. Persephone was paired with Firebird and Morningstar. Walking over to the two woman, Ava pointed toward the beach [the six located at the edge of the beach and forest] at the jetty of rocks. ::

"We can position ourselves there. We'll have a clear view of everything happening."

:: Morningstar, Firebird, and Persephone all began to make their way toward the jetty, passing the others. Grabbing her sister's forearm, she gave her a stern look. ::

"Stay safe."

:: With a nod, Ava then moved past Alison, giving her an 'i've got your back' look. After everything they had been through, the precog and the goddess had developed a new found relationship with each other. One that made Ava look at Alison as a second sister. Continuing their trek, finally the three woman found themselves at the jetty where they ducked for cover behind the large bolders. ::

 

[Firebird]

jetty

"Flaming canary? Says the adhesive witch who obviously spent more time allowing that bleach-blonde dye of hers to camouflage that lovely gray hair. It obviously must have seeped through your scalp to make you delusional. "

Smirking, Blaze was quick with her own catty remark, a playful mischief sparkled in her eyes. "But hey if you're going for the Diane Keaton look, good for you for being a trend setter." Blaze slapped her sister's back with a cackled laugh and a sly wink. She was only jesting in good fun, which Morgan would know. Even this alternate had a wicked sense of humor like her sister.

Blaze's smile dropped at the mention of Haleigh, "Did he now...interesting." Dark-green eyes slithered onto the hybrid and Nicolas. She too had detected as well but it wasn't her place. I mean, how exactly does a person tell there sister their second in command is fucking their boyfriend? Talk about Melrose Place! More like Sex & the City meets Melrose Place. Its not everyday a person can go up to their sibling and go 'by the way Haleigh slept with Nicolas while we were all worried sick!' Not exactly dinner conversation.

"Queen?" The fire elemental had to bite her tongue, the pieces of the puzzles were fitting together in her head putting the two together. Which judging from the looks that Alison was giving she must have witnessed their cruel act of betrayal. Although Haleigh did mention about being manipulated. But Blaze had been manipulated by Malice just as well. That manipulation line could only go so far, especially when manipulation was usually triggered by dormant emotions buried under the sea of one's heart.

Snapping out of her reverie, Blaze turned to look at Morgan, "A woman's intuition is always right..." She hinted but didn't bother to elaborate. Struggling with her own emotions of how she felt about this. But obviously now wasn't the time to dwell on them. Set still had to be stopped once and for all.

Stepping away from Morgan, Blaze walked over to Delilah to touch her hand. Turning to face the good detective, "Delilah, you remember that promise about taking care of Morgan? Well, we really need to be there for her. This...mission will be exhausting physically and emotionally." Enigmatic words were also hinted as she eyed the blonde. "Its gonna get rough out there and I just want Morgan to have an outlet for that." Talking in riddles, Blaze knew Morgan might just lose herself to the dark side with this betrayal.

A part of Blaze felt angry but the other half of her didn't know enough to really form an opinion without being biased. The best she could do was make sure Morgan had support from her friends and family when the truth was revealed.

Nodding to Alison, Blaze remained at Morningstar's side while Persephone offered a sense of foreshadow with her perceptive nature. All three women would depart with Persephone leading them out to the jetty. Tucking for cover, Blaze nodded to Morningstar and Persephone as they would prepare for the fight of their life.

 

[Enchantrah]

Helena was growing tired and restless. She wanted to get this show on the road, kill Set, and part ways with these annoying children. With her weight shifted onto one leg and her arms folded across her chest, the metamorph casually glanced over at Diane who began to speak to her telepathically.

to Enchantra: well, that eliminates ONE justification we have for trying to kill the boy. but if i wait long enough, another may present itself soon.

"Oh look...he's crying. Is being a pansy justification enough to kill him?"

A laugh followed Helena's quipp about poor Nicolas finding out his mother had died as a result of his birth. Boo freakin' hoo. Her mother was murdered before her very eyes when she was eight years old as a result of her FATHER trying to kill her and Helena's mother stepping in the path of the attack. But Helena got the last laugh....poor daddy lost his mind....literally.

As Helena watched Nicolas blubber, Diane nudged her indicating they should go over and say something to DOminique. Both woman walked over to where Isis stood...she looked worse for the wear, but the metamorph decided to hold her tongue this time.

"Don't worry, we'll knock him down a few pegs before you fillet his disgusting ass with that wonderful little wand of yours. [Helena's mind wandering] We really need to find a way back into that vault...."

Helena was lost in her own thoughts for a few minutes before being jolted back to reality by Malice's voice in her head.

telepathically to Enchantra: something's up with Haleigh, and it has something to do with NICOLAS. Firebird suspects something too, and from the looks Harbinger was giving a second ago...i think that opportunity that i was looking for is close at hand!

Glancing over to Haleigh, Helena's eyebrows raised slightly as she studied the hybrid's face. With a smirk, Helena surpressed a laugh.

"Oh I know THAT look.....and believe me, Set won't be the six's only problems tonight."

As a bonified adulterer, Helena was quite privvy to 'those' looks. Not that SHE ever looked that way after a night with someone else's husband, fiance, or boyfriend. But that subject would have to wait for another time. Now, Set was coming and they needed to prepare for battle. Harbinger teamed Enchantra and Malice together, and Enchantra nodded. Suggesting to Malice that they position themselves over by a cluster of trees off to the left of them, she agreed and they both headed off in that direction.

Reaching the large jungle trees, Helena's body morphed into that of a leopard. Skillfully jumping up the trunk of the tree and scaling up it, she soon reached the first set of branches, allowing her to get a birds eye view of where they had been previously. In her animal state, along with Malice's efforts to protect her mind, Set would find it impossible to locate her this time.

"I'm creating a suble 'darkened' illusion around each group's location, making it easier to mask their location yet not obvious enough for Set to pin point."