Foxfire or Firebird?

[Silver Swan]

Into the Great Room

:: Silver Swan emerged. Wearing simple silver dress with her hair pulled back and just the right touch of eye make up and some earrings::

:: After spending sometime meditating and clearing her thoughts, she felt now was the time to join in the festivities.::

:: Cameron had asked if she would help him in his list of surprises for the group this evening by SINGING a song or two. Indeed, Silver Swan now had, among other abilities, the ability to sing in perfect tone/pitch. Her sonic power allowed her voice to rival to that of the legendary sirens in terms of her abilities as a songstress. In mainstream time, only a few of her team mates or colleagues had heard her actually sing so after some persuasive talking from Cameron, she agreed.::

::That would come after dinner though, along with some other activities that even SHE was not aware of just yet.::

:: She quietly entered the Great Room, looking around and taking in all the sighs, sounds, rhythms and other details. Alycia had already departed and Morgan, Delilah and Haleigh were absent. That much she had expected:

:: Everyone else who was here looked happy...accept for Blaze. Even her heart beat seemed to be "unhappy", but Cameron was with her, that was a good sign.::

:: she walked slowly through the room, first encountering Ava and Karen::

Hello ladies.

:: Sharon says as she approaches::

How has everything been so far?

:: one last quick look around::

This is the first time I've been able to appreciate the COMFORT of this place. Cameron must be feeling quite please with himself, having persuaded Alison to allow him to do this in her mansion.

 

[Ruby]

Minerva's Mansion - Great Hall

Oh Cass, don't worry. There was no dress code. Some of us just look for any excuse to play "dress up!"

:: Cass smiled. ::

“Whew! THAT is a relief.”

:: She chuckled as Nicolas made his presence known. ::

A-hem!!

But Nicolas, we've ALREADY met before?

:: The two women shook their heads as Nicolas ran to grab Karen and dragged her out on the dance floor. ::

Cass, if I were you, I'd do myself a huge favor and loosen up, honey.

:: Gesturing over to Nicolas as he pulls Karen out on the dance floor, Alycia continued to give Cass some advice. ::

Because if you don't, Nicolas will most certainly make YOU follow HIM down the yellow brick road!

:: Cass and Alycia watched as Nicolas cut up the dance floor with Karen. Alycia was cheering them both on while Cass just laughed and laughed. Alycia then turned to Cass. ::

Well it was very nice to meet you Cass. You've fallen in with the best possible group. You'll learn alot from them and they'll learn alot from and about you! Just be open minded. Give yourself AND them a chance!

:: The dark-haired beauty nodded. ::

“I will, I will.”

Have a good time tonight.

:: Cass squeezed Alycia’s hand back. ::

“It was nice to meet you too, and I will heed that advice.”

:: Alycia then left, leaving Cass and Mike alone. Cass turned to Mike. ::

“I’m going to try and mingle, okay?”

:: She turned from Mike and sighed inwardly. She spotted Blaze sitting with Cameron. She finished her pina colada in one gulp. ::

Here goes nothing.

:: She walked slowly up to the bar where Cameron and Blaze were sitting. They looked like they were in a deep conversation and she didn’t want to interrupt them. She went on the other side of Blaze and set her empty glass down on the counter and flagged the server. ::

“I’d like an apple martini, please.”

:: She turned to Blaze and Cameron. ::

*friendly; shy*: “Hey, how’s it going?”

 

[Persephone]

It was pretty entertaining watching Nicolas and Karen dance, especially after Karen started to get into it. Continuing to watch until finally they were done, Ava politely clapped as the duo bowed and Karen made her way back over.

"I'm impressed, Karen. I honestly didn't know you could dance like that."

Ava said with a grin. Handing the doctor a glass of chardonnay, Ava took a sip of her own just as Sharon approached.

Sharon: Hello ladies.

"Good evening, Sharon. You look lovely tonight."

Sharon: How has everything been tonight?

"Do you mean, has there been any cat fights, explosions, or death threats this evening? [smirking] Everything has actually been very nice thus far."

Sharon: This is the first time I've been able to appreciate the COMFORT of this place. Cameron must be feeling quite please with himself, having persuaded Alison to allow him to do this in her mansion.

"And pleased about other things i'm sure."

Ava deadpanned quietly, referring to him getting both her and Alison shit faced earlier.

 

[MorningStar]

Melrose Place, Apartment #1

Blaze was just like Morgan, and she couldn’t even see it. She spouted off condescending remarks without even thinking about what she was saying. And everything that ever happened was a personal affront to HER. The people that were supposed to be there for her the most had completely abandoned her in her hour of need. And THAT was something she would never have expected. Even this Blaze, who wasn’t technically HER Blaze, but with whom she’d had the same connection as to her alternate.

They expected her to have blind trust in Morgan and Alison, no matter what. But once that trust had been betrayed, how could she be expected to? And in point of fact, she had signed up to be part of a team, not Morgan Victoria’s lapdog. She wished Haleigh were here – of all of them, SHE would understand.

It had become clear that HER problems weren’t important to them, that she could not count on them to be there for her the way she had been for them countless times. When they made mistakes, she was to forgive them instantly. And when she made mistakes – they would hold them over her head forever.

She’d switched to beer since Blaze had left and was filling up a pint glass when she heard a knock at the door.

“Gee, who else could be coming to tell me how I should be groveling at Morgan’s feet?”

She flung open the door, her face registering surprise at the person on the other side.

“Alycia?”

She stepped aside to let the Amazon pass.

“What are you doing here?”

 

[Arsenal]

Alycia said: :: Cheering Nicolas and Karen on::

NICE MOVES, YOU TWO!

:: Looking at Michael::

You're not jealous are you?

:: Nudging him playfully. It was, of course, a joke. All in good fun::

Mike laughed at the joke. He tickled her side and nudged her back, being careful not to push too hard. She was strong, but still rather light.

After a short time, Alycia excused herself.

:: She squeezes Cass' hand before letting it go and looking to Michael::

I'll be back. I have something to take care of.

Cool. Don't be too long, we have to get these two 'dancers' back later on.

Alycia left, no doubt to use the door to get back to MP. He had already left the doors unlocked for her so it was no big deal. He watched Cass try to mingle and as he saw Sharon enter and walk up to Ava and Karen, decided to go over and mingle himself. He got himself a Jack on the rocks and walked up.

Very nice footwork Doc! I suppose that showing Nic the dancing pics paid off already!

Mike was laughing as Karen shot him an only half-mockingly exasperated look. She tended to like to keep up a certain decorum but Mike was determined to shake that up a bit. She was incredibly fun and spontaneous and even quite a bit spicy in private but she often felt the need to be motherly to this group of adults. Mike had to remind her often that she needed to make sure that she did not lose herself and her own joy fretting over everyone else. Additionally, for some of her 'kids' like Nicolas, this was a side of which he was unaware due to the facade she often kept up. So it was a unifying thing for him, something that he deserved to know in Mike's opinion. The fact that she might find it a bit embarrassing was simply a BONUS.

Mike gave Sharon a one-armed squeeze and even kissed Ava's hand as he greeted all of them.

Sharon, you look lovely! Ava, nice to see you recover well.

Mike knew that no one else knew YET about them all getting hammered, so it was a nice little playful secret between the lot of them. He winked at Ava and then returned his look to Sharon.

So Sharon, how is Cass' training going? Is she ready to integrate into a larger group scenario? I know it is time to get a few others in the group into the Danger Room anyway, so maybe we could do something bigger.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Great Room- The dancing doctor

<<Karen observed a subtle shift in Ava’s posture and facial expression at the mention of her prolonged absence. The goddess was definitely one of the more “cool” and less emotionally demonstrative members of the Six, but Karen’s skill and experience as a psycho therapist and working with THIS GROUP alone had allowed her to pick up on habits, traits and body language unique to each member in this group.>>

<< In another time and place, she would have attempted to find out what was going on, but now was not the best time and Ava was not one to open up too easily with her personal matters. She had dodged the same issue/mystery issue Alison and Morgan weeks’ earlier.>>

<< Before too long, an exuberant Nicolas came over and whisked Karen away to the dance floor!>>

<<GASP!>>

<< Too late. Ava was already waving goodbye and others around the room were cheering and whistling as the band started up. >>

Nicolas King!

<< She said in somewhat scolding tone in his ear.>>

Mike TOLD me you were a great dancer. He even showed me a picture of you in dance class from a while back. I promised him that I would get you on the floor and now I have you!!!

Well I….

<< The normally pristine and always well-spoken doctor was momentarily at a loss for words due to the utter surprise of the moment! But she WAS a dancer. Her training was rooted in the discipline of a lyrical ballerina! She’d branched out to other styles of dancing as she went through adolescence and early adulthood and was still actively involved in learning various dances well past the “disco” era. She kept up through the years and found a capable, stylish partner in Michael, who had taken her out see what she could do in the way of ballroom and stepping. She proved that if she didn’t already know a move, she was a fast learner.>>

<< So now, here she was, pulled into a dance and so, the dancer in her immediately sprang into action!>>

By this point Nicolas is laughing and smiling as they dance, even incorporating in a turn her and there. In spite of herself, Karen is having fun and that is EXACTLY what the young demi-god wanted to see. He could FEEL the cheer infect the room as they danced and, by the time the song was over, he DIPPED Karen, who yelped just a bit (even as she executed it perfectly), before bring her back up and then bowing graciously as the group broke into applause. The announcer even chimed in.

WHOA!

DOCTOR KAREN VICTORIA ladies and gentlemen!!!

<< Karen stood up with grace, bowing with Nicolas. As she exited the floor, she elbowed Nicolas in his side as everyone clapped and cheered rather loudly. Karen blushed a bit.>>

Nicolas, you’re a very NAUGHTY boy!

<< Chiding him a bit>>

But I must say, that was quite nice. Though I don’t wish to be known as “the dancing doctor” after this evening…

<< too late for her. She didn’t yet know Alycia had already picked up on the idea of that as a new nickname for her.>>

<< She rejoins Ava and a newly arrived Sharon, who JUST MISSED the impromptu dance session.>>

Hello ladies. How has everything been tonight/

<< Karen says as she runs her hand through her hair >>

Well.


<< she says rather pointedly>>

Hello Sharon! You just missed some of the fun. But I can see no one is safe from the “moments” created by Cameron and company this evening. Watch your step, my girls, you may be next!


<< she wasn’t upset really. in fact, she was looking forward to a bit more dancing later. “dinner and dancing” seemed to be a lost art among today’s younger people.>>

Do you mean, have there been any cat fights, explosions, or death threats this evening? [smirking] Everything has actually been very nice thus far.

<< laughing a bit, softly>>

Hmmm yes. Everyone HAS been behaving quite well this evening, even WITH an uncorked supply of alcohol. I certainly hope it continues that way.

This is the first time I've been able to appreciate the COMFORT of this place. Cameron must be feeling quite pleased with himself, having persuaded Alison to allow him to do this in her mansion.

"And pleased about other things I’m sure."

Ava deadpanned quietly, referring to him getting both her and Alison shit faced earlier.

My, My, Ava. Have Cameron’s machinations gotten the better of you at some point today as well?

<<Karen said in a knowing tone as she smiled. But then…>>

Very nice footwork Doc! I suppose that showing Nic the dancing pics paid off already!

Mike was laughing as Karen shot him an only half-mockingly exasperated look. She tended to like to keep up certain decorum but Mike was determined to shake that up a bit. She was incredibly fun and spontaneous and even quite a bit spicy in private but she often felt the need to be motherly to this group of adults. Mike had to remind her often that she needed to make sure that she did not lose herself and her own joy fretting over everyone else. Additionally, for some of her 'kids' like Nicolas, this was a side of which he was unaware due to the facade she often kept up. So it was a unifying thing for him, something that he deserved to know in Mike's opinion. The fact that she might find it a bit embarrassing was simply a BONUS.

Oh Michael, REALLY.

<< She thinks while clearing her throat after shooting him a half-mockingly exasperated look as Ava and Sharon giggled a bit.>>

Sounds like I just missed Karen being in rare form?

Oh… never mind that.


<< Karen said, lightly waving her hand dismissively Michael confirmed Sharon’s question and greeted her, then Ava. Karen smiled a bit, in spite of herself. It WAS totally unexpected, but also FUN! And who better to have a bit of harmless fun around, then her friends, her “children” and her companion?>>

 

[Silver Swan]

The Great Room

Thank you.

So do you, both of you.

:: Sharon said as she nodded with approval at their outfits and individual taste. Alycia was right, more than a few of them enjoyed any reason to play “dress up”, even Sharon, who by now, had become quite adept at controlling the molecules of her adamantium armour. She was able to manipulate it around her body into any form of clothing, accessory or outfit she could think of. But, anything she wore, would always be silver. It was a limitation, and yet, something that would always make her and her wardrobe unique.::

:: Ava and Karen commented on the evening’s events so far, including the various “pranks” or “spotlight moments” Cameron and others had orchestrated. She smiled a bit as Michael came over, clearly pleased with himself over the “the dancing doctor” scene that Sharon had apparently just missed!::

:: She catches the quieter comment Ava makes about Cameron::


Well I suppose everyone is allowed at least 1 or 2 witty, mischievous days.


:: Sharon said with a thoughtful, surprisingly light hearted tone::

Before you have to bend them over backwards and fold them into a pretzel to remind them of the need for structure and boundaries…


:: She smiles “sweetly” at her own dark humor. ::

:: Michael came over and reveled in his moment of triumph with Karen. Sharon giggled a bit at the sight of them. It reminded her of lighter moments with her late husband, Robert Kelly, MANY MOONS ago.::

Oh Karen, there’s no harm in showing your graceful talents among friends. On Themyscira, the dancers and musicians among the Amazons are some of the most highly praised and respected among t heir sisterhood.

Art comes in many forms. To be able to move with style and grace is a rare gift that not many have, or manage to keep.

:: She smiles at Karen with reassurance as the doctor seems to settle and enjoy the fun of it all::

Mike gave Sharon a one-armed squeeze and even kissed Ava's hand as he greeted all of them.

Sharon, you look lovely! Ava, nice to see you recover well.


Mike knew that no one else knew YET about them all getting hammered, so it was a nice little playful secret between the lot of them. He winked at Ava and then returned his look to Sharon.

Thank you. You look quite vital & handsome yourself.

:: She raised an eyebrow at Michael’s observation to Ava. Clearly that had something to do with Ava’s own quiet quip about Cameron from earlier. Apparently there was A LOT Sharon had missed at Minerva’s today, but it was for a good enough reason::

So Sharon, how is Cass' training going? Is she ready to integrate into a larger group scenario?

After Karen, Cass and I visited with Delilah, we went to Cass’ apartment to talk with her for a while. It seems that she’s making progress in her adjustment, but there’s still much ground to be covered. She’s still reluctant and suspicious.

Karen and I were both reminded of some of Haleigh’s LESS ENDEARING traits & tendencies in some of the remarks she made…

BUT, it should be noted, that this was Haleigh in her EARLIER days with the Six that we were reminded of

Yes…of course.

:: Sharon said rather flatly. Not that she disagreed with Karen, just that at the moment, she found herself wondering just how much of what they said to her was actually registering?::


We have advised her that while we [Karen and I] are always available for support, encouragement and assistance, the bulk of her interactions, the core of her relationships should come from her PEERS. Karen and I are not “front line” or “active duty” members at this time. She needs to form bonds and open channels with those whom she will be fighting side by side. Their lives will depend on her ability to function in concert with them and vice versa!

Quite right.

I know it is time to get a few others in the group into the Danger Room anyway, so maybe we could do something bigger.

I would say so. She handled herself well enough in her first solo session in the danger room, which was ran by Cameron. But more time, more training is needed.

More WILLINGNESS to step forward, outside of her comfort zone. She is not unlike any other Six member, including Ava, who had a difficult time when SHE first came to the Six. Or Sharon, whose own adjustment reaction to her new state of being, even AFTER Rick Riley was dealt with, was harsh and violent.

But the others on the active roster will have to do their part as well. A person cannot progress in any meaningful way if the path is constantly altered and twisted to impossible reasoning .

 

[Persephone]

Mike: Sharon, you look lovely! Ava, nice to see you recover well.

Narrowing her eyes at Mike.

"Gee, thanks."

She quipped with a small smile as she finished off her chardonnay. Putting the flute down, a waiter came over to refill it but she stopped him.

"I think i'm done drinking for the day!"

That would give Sharon and Karen the hint that there had been quite a pregame earlier to this party. Folding her arms across her chest, soon Mike brought up Cass and how she's been with Sharon. Ava rolled her eyes. Of course they were switch the conversation to that glorified leach.

Sharon: Karen and I were both reminded of some of Haleigh’s LESS ENDEARING traits & tendencies in some of the remarks she made…

"Please don't compare that to my sister."

A first indication to the three that Ava did not like Cass.

Mike: I know it is time to get a few others in the group into the Danger Room anyway, so maybe we could do something bigger.

Sharon: I would say so. She handled herself well enough in her first solo session in the danger room, which was ran by Cameron. But more time, more training is needed.

A devilish smile appeared across Ava's lips.

"Oh that would be fun. Are the safeties off?"

Noting a disapproving look from Karen.

"What? I'm kidding of course.."

Kind of.

Karen: More WILLINGNESS to step forward, outside of her comfort zone. She is not unlike any other Six member, including Ava, who had a difficult time when SHE first came to the Six. Or Sharon, whose own adjustment reaction to her new state of being, even AFTER Rick Riley was dealt with, was harsh and violent.

"Everyone has a hard time adjusting to this team at first. But this girl looks like she'd have a hard time adjusting to socializing with a class full of kindergartners. [everyone looks at her] WHAT? If she can't handle a party with us, how the hell is she going to handle facing something like MysTech or Black with us? Look, I'm just giving you another point of view on the situation, that's all."

Living up to her unforgiving nature, there was always some sort of hazing period with Ava when it came to newbies. Even back when she was the Dire Wraith of the MOE. But there was a difference between hazing and HATING. Ava didn't like Cass, period. But, that didn't mean she couldn't speak the truth about certain blindingly obvious topics to the others.

 

[Firebird]

The Great Room

Blaze enjoyed some more conversation with Cameron. Her own heightened empathy seemed to be touched by his soul’s passion. She soon felt a presence coming closer…

:: She walked slowly up to the bar where Cameron and Blaze were sitting. They looked like they were in a deep conversation and she didn’t want to interrupt them. She went on the other side of Blaze and set her empty glass down on the counter and flagged the server. ::

Blaze looked over the new arrival to her table. Cass had finally decided to step up! This was an unexpected surprise, one that helped to further distract Blaze from her own inner thoughts, for now.

“I’d like an apple martini, please.”

:: She turned to Blaze and Cameron. ::

*friendly; shy*: “Hey, how’s it going?”

“Hello there.”

Blaze says with a smile and intrigue as she studies Cass up close with her apple green eyes.

“Hey now, despite the rumours, I don’t bite. Well not much anyway, right Cameron?”

Winking at Cass.

“Have a seat! Unless you’re in a hurry to some place else?”

She looks back to Cameron as the girl seats herself.

“So…what took you so long to say hello to me? I think the entire time you’ve been at Melrose, you’ve maybe said a handful of words to me?”

“Are you avoiding me because of my sister?”

“Or is it because Cameron was too rough on you in your virgin session in the Danger Room?”

Blaze’s curious gaze melts into a wicked smile.

“Don’t let him get to you. He only hurts the ones he likes…and we’re only TOO GLAD to hurt him back!”

Pinching Cameron on his side, knowing it’d make him jump a bit as she continues to smile at Cass like a Cheshire cat!

“And as for Morgan, well…I think it’s pretty obvious just from looking at me that I am my own person. It’ll be better for BOTH of us, if you give me a chance and get to know me for who *I* am, just as I’m sure you want me to do with you? Just as I’m sure you want ALL of the Six to do?"

Blaze finished her second lemon drop, licking the sugar off of her glossed lips before signaling the server for another round.


“It’s not so bad, you know.”

“There’s people in this room right now who have done things that most any other group…superpowered or not…would have turned them out into the dark night alone a LONG time ago.”

It was so much easier to sell this group to Cass, than it was to sell HERSELF on STAYING with this group. The irony was not lost on Blaze as she laughed softly for a moment while looking at Cass then over to Cameron.

 

[Artemis]

MP- Delilah's apartment

She’d switched to beer since Blaze had left and was filling up a pint glass when she heard a knock at the door.

“Gee, who else could be coming to tell me how I should be groveling at Morgan’s feet?”

She flung open the door, her face registering surprise at the person on the other side.

“Alycia?”

::Alycia's hazel eyes widen a bit as the door FLEW open. Some of her raven hair flowed a bit in the unexpected draft::

Were you expecting...CIRCE?

:: Alycia smiled a bit as she looked genuinely pleased to see Delilah.::

She stepped aside to let the Amazon pass.

“What are you doing here?”

Well...

:: she said with purpose, walking in and seating herself in Delilah's living room::

This may sound trite to you...BUT...you've been on my mind.

I've had a few conversations with some of the others.

But I'm not here because of anything any one of THEM says or feels.

:: she's holding the file folder in her hand as it slightly rests on her lap::

I've wanted to come see you.

I've felt a strong guidance from Athena. Hypolytta has always said to me that I had favor with Athena...for being a "scholar of laws and understanding."

Coming from my background...to hear things like THAT...you can probably imagine it's a bit odd. But yet...comforting, INSPIRING even.

::Sigh!::

So here I am. I wanted to see you.

I know you're not in the mood for casual company, so I won't take too much of your time. But there IS something I wanted to share with you while I was here. Something that I hope will touch your heart like it did mine.

:: She places the folder on the coffee table, sliding it over to Delilah. She sits back on the couch, crossing her legs at the knee and absentmindedly "twirling" her ankle and foot, which are supported by a silver heeled stilletto::

:: Delilah opens the folder and finds: two business cards.::

One of mine, one of yours. From our glory days as the DA of NY and a results prooven/driven, well decorated member of NY's finest.

:: News paper clippings. Articles and photos from...::

The trial of Victor Klein, the surrogate father of Jasmine Klein a.k.a. Frost, the half sister of Spellbinder and Foxfire.

It wasn't the first time you and I worked together. OUTSIDE of the Six. We were part of a "machine", you and I. But we took on roles of our choosing, our passion.

This case in particular was high stakes. Klein was on the top of BOTH our lists. He was one of Sharon Kelly's targets, a figure on Mystech's chess board.

He made a bold escape, during recess at trial no less! He attempted to assassinate myself and Sharon. YOU and the Six saved us. He vowed to come back for us, along with Frost and her sisters. Pipeline was on the loose. Rick Riley was behind ALL of this at that time.

Alison...Harbinger...GUARDIAN as she was known in those days...stopped Klein, the only one someone like him COULD be stopped.

::FLASH!::

<< the rooftop of Illustra>>

Yes, this morning's catastrophe was revealed to me before, as we had discussed. the one anamoly i couldn't anticipate entirely was PIPELINE. he managed to allude me when he arrived through the communication lines of the courthouse, but NOT once they had reconstituted themselves OUTSIDE the building. Since it was impossible to carry out the trial OTHER steps had to be taken. One thing about MysTech...they definately will exploit their own to achieve their goal and Victor's "rescue" was nothing more than a stepping stone for pipeline to get closer to Sharon and Alycia....he would have been BURIED by Alycia and given the death penalty had the trial concluded...but

:: looking upon Jasmine with an unforgiving glare, Guardian faced the whole group...with her other hand behind her back::

and as for Victor Klein.....

:: she brings her hand forward and FLINGS the DECAPITATED head of Victor Klein to the ground it lands..with a sickening bone rattling sound just at the feet of Haleigh and Jasmine. the face of the severed head is frozen in painfull, shocking fear.::

I took care of him myself.

:: she stood, the shadows cast over her as her cobalt blue eyes glowed. the group knew alison was more than capable of killing. several of them had seen her do so in the past but THIS...this was unexpected and now the group had an idea of what Alison had been up to.::

his body is destroyed....i froze his head before shattering his skeletal system and then blowing him up.

It was a dark, uncertain time. We were looking for Mystech and they were coming for us.

YOU were a pivotal, stabilizing force in the Six at that time. You were the gap between them and US (gesturing between herself and Delilah), "law enforcement".

Not just then, but other times as well. This particular time just stands out to me because of how closely you and I worked together during the trial. You were one of my star witnesses. When Sharon and I were seemingly LOCKED in this "damsel in distress" phase...you never made us feel like idiots for needing your help.

There's another time I think about.

When all the unexplainable bird attacks were happening around the city. Sharon was coming back as the Silver Swan. We didn't know it...and the closer we got to that truth, the less we wanted to believe it.

It was a bad time for all of us.

Haleigh and I were at each other's throats...and you know, I look back on that time now and I wonder WHY she and I wasted so much time being at odds, wanting to "one-up" each other, and even wanting to kill each other!?

Do you remember? You stopped me from taking EMP magnetic wand right up to the War Room floor to try to destroy Haleigh...

Oh I was out of my MIND with grief, rage, a need to do SOMETHING to try to even the scales of..."JUSTICE".

And...the same woman who had saved Sharon and I from perversion of Rick Riley was the woman I was now trying to MURDER with an EMP wand.

But YOU stopped me. You kept me from racing head long over a cliff of emotional chaos.

Haleigh and I said some TERRIBLE things to eachother throughout that whole nightmare, but at the end...we came together. Sharon was rescued and returned to us...

:: She pauses...::

You were alot more kind to me than I deserved back then, Delilah.

I haven't forgotten that.

Things like that...the memories that come from these business cards of ours, these news clippings and pictures...that's why I'm here.

I just wanted to share these with you and let you know that whether you believe me or not...you DO matter and you ARE WANTED. Not just needed...but WANTED, as the person that you are!

You're in HELL right now.

If anybody can attempt to know what being lost in a personal HELL is like...that's me. I've had a few stops in my own personal hell through the years.

I got so carried away...so MESSY after Sharon's death.

But everyone, INCLUDING Haleigh, and YOU, were there to keep me from going BEYOND the point of no return.

Even though there was that one thing...

::FLASH!::

<< 99th Floor. Alycia's satellite office. A surprise visit/confrontation by recently defeated and humiliated Stavros Cassadine>>

Alycia: ....you're out of your mind if you think you can get away with this!

Stavros: I had...for quite some time! Until YOU kept meddling, INTERFERRING!

:: Stavros slowly circles Alycia's desk, walking toward her, closing in...::

Stavros: You DESTROYED ME....


:: Alycia feels the handle of a golf club, right by her side leaning on the desk! she takes hold of it...::

Stavros: YOU BITCH...YOU....

:: Without warning, he LUNGES for her::

:: GASP!::

:: She doesnt think...she just ACTS! TO SAVE HERSELF!::

:: She dodges his advance and STRIKES Stavros across his back and the back of his head with the golf club, the blow from the golf club and his own momentum work against him as he stumbles, CRASHING INTO AND OUT OF THE WINDOW...and FALLING....99 floors down...to his DEATH::

:: His scream is that of SURPRISE and SHOCK more than fear. It is onlyl silenced by a sickening THUD.::

Oh...my...god!


:: Dropping the golf club and holding her hands up in a moment of utter disbelief, Alycia looks down from the now exposed space in the the window. She looks down...and sees the man, Stavros Cassadine, now lying smashed and mangled on the ground in a pool of his own blood and shattered glass around him::

But that's kind of it's own...seperate issue...

:: She says with tightness in her voice::


But this....YOU.. are why I'm here. I felt lead by Athena to come see you.

You might not think much of her or any other goddess...but I hope you'll believe ME.


:: She looked at Delilah with sincerity in her eyes. She knew the woman had been drinking, but she also knew the woman was made of sterner stuff than most. She could hear...LISTEN and maybe not now, but sometime SOON, she would take what Alycia was saying to heart::

And the ONLY thing I want to say about you, Morgan and Alison?

If Haleigh and I can come through what WE have and reach the point where we LOOK for each other each time we "come back" from whereever it is that each of us may be?

Then ANYTHING is possible.

The people that we...we tear at the most savage are often the ones we have the strongest tie to.

I'm not telling you what to do or how to feel...just that...anything's possible.

:: moving forward on the couch, Alycia looks more intently::

The other thing I want to tell you is... more than one member of the Six has asked me to stick around and help on the front lines. I'm doing that, at least for now.

But I have my eye on settling back in NYC. It feels like the right time.

Maybe you'll want to do that too.

If you do, I'd be happen to give you a life in my vessel.

:: Alycia smiles a bit::

Whatever you decide, whatever you may need, if I can help...please reach out. I know Sharon has probably said some things to you already....so I'm going to give you your space now.

But just know that I'm holding on to HOPE for you. This team, this WORLD is not the same without it's brightest MORNINGSTAR. Maybe she's changing, reorienting herself so that she can shine bright again...that's fine. Like all things, WE (referencing the six and their allies) must give each person time.

Time...and hope.

:: She stood up, walking around the coffee table and taking Delilah's hand into her own.::

Goodnight, Delilah.

:: Smiling a bit::

My offer is always available if you need me to get you out of here.

:: and with that, Alycia takes her leave, leaving the keepsakes of their past lives behind for Delilah to look over and reflect on her past, and her future!::

 

[Rampage]

Now THAT was fun!! Nicolas calls an attendant and requests a Screwdriver.

Heavy on the screw babe...and keep 'em comin'.

Having received his first one, Nic walks over to Blaze and Cameron. Blaze was busy goosing Cam's nipple when Nicolas rolled up, popping Blaze on the bottom.

Just in the nick of time for "Fondlefest 2013" I see. I have selected my target!!! And just in time to save Cameron King himself! Don't thank me right now...I am certain that at some later time Blaze will get me back and you will come in handy.

Nicolas was laughing heartily at the pair.

 

[Ruby]

Minerva's Mansion - Great Hall

:: The server placed an apple martini in front of Cass. ::

“Thank you.”

“Hello there.”

:: Cass took a sip and nodded to Blaze. ::

“Hey.”

“Hey now, despite the rumours, I don’t bite. Well not much anyway, right Cameron?”

:: Cass chuckled. Maybe it was the ‘liquid courage’ but she felt relaxed and ready to have some fun. ::

“Have a seat! Unless you’re in a hurry to some place else?”

“Oh no, I’m in no hurry at all.”

:: She looked at Cameron as well. There was a certain gleam in her blue eyes. Her next words WOULD’VE sounded SHARP, but the tone of her voice was LIGHT and JOKING. ::

*jokingly*: “Don’t think I didn’t notice those judgmental glances you, Ava, and Alycia were throwing my way. However, if you sent Alycia over for some scoop, you’ll be sorely disappointed.”

:: She stuck her tongue out at the young man and took another sip of her martini. ::

“So…what took you so long to say hello to me? I think the entire time you’ve been at Melrose, you’ve maybe said a handful of words to me? Are you avoiding me because of my sister? Or is it because Cameron was too rough on you in your virgin session in the Danger Room?”

:: Cass sighed. Truth be told, it WAS because of Morgan. It was completely ridiculous, even Cass had to admit THAT, but she still felt like the “newbie” and she just didn’t want to deal with Morgan getting all mad at her because SHE was ‘corrupting her sister and friends’ or whatever the hell Morgan would’ve thought. She understood that her association with ELLA and other vampires made her the black sheep because Morgan’s sister in THIS timeline died at the hands of a group of vampires – another thing she didn’t quite understand: Foxfire vs Firebird, THIS timeline vs FIREBIRD’S timeline – but for crying out loud, she had NOTHING to do with Foxfire’s death. Hell, she didn’t even know her! But…Morgan was not here at the moment and maybe, just maybe, if she started making friends Morgan would be nice to her when she DID come back? onder: Cass smirked at the thought of CAMERON being too rough with HER. ::

“Don’t let him get to you. He only hurts the ones he likes…and we’re only TOO GLAD to hurt him back!”

:: Cass stared straight at Cameron. She had a teasing look on her face. ::

*teasingly*: “Sorry to be the one to break this to you but YOU are the least of my worries!”

:: Her expression took on a pensive look. ::

“Honestly, Blaze, it WAS because of your sister. I still feel like the new kid on the block and I just felt that…I COULDN’T find a way to break into the group. You guys all know each other and I only had Ella and now that SHE’S away, I feel slightly adrift now. I’m still trying to find MYSELF and I know that makes me seem ODD but Morgan and I kept getting into it and THAT wasn’t helping…"

:: She sighed again and took another sip. She was slowly letting the apple slice at the bottom of the glass soak in the alcohol. ::

“Look, I’m sorry if I came across as closed off or if I come across as a bitch. I have issues I still need to deal with, but I’m working on them. I really am.”

“And as for Morgan, well…I think it’s pretty obvious just from looking at me that I am my own person. It’ll be better for BOTH of us, if you give me a chance and get to know me for who *I* am, just as I’m sure you want me to do with you? Just as I’m sure you want ALL of the Six to do?"

*tentatively*: “I think that is an excellent idea, Blaze. After all, I never met Foxfire…”

:: She said this tentatively. She wasn’t sure how Blaze felt about about THIS timeline’s Blaze and so she wanted to let the red-haired beauty know that she, Cass, had no expectations of her. ::

Should I have said that? I’m not sure…

“It’s not so bad, you know… There are people in this room right now who have done things that most any other group, superpowered or not, would have turned them out into the dark night alone a LONG time ago.”

“Thank you SO much for saying that. I needed to hear that.”

:: She smiled at Blaze. ::

 

[Prophet]

Minerva's Mansion - Great Room

Cameron could tell he had caught Blaze a litle bit off guard as her pupils dilated upon the mention that he could tell that she was hiding something...and that suspicion was only furthered proved by her almost complete disregard of his statements. She was stifled only for a moment as she put on her "Blaze" face and continued the surface level, light hearted conversation.

Blaze: This whole set up is nice. My Alison changed her name to "Harbinger", but she didn't have any of THIS. Maybe we never reached this point as a group, I don't know...but this is like a whole other world unto itself..

[Cameron smiled for a moment]

"It IS rather intriguing, but I have to say, having this place definitely feels like...at least for me, that I finally have a 'family' home to go. I always know that this place will be Alison's...and by extension 'ours'...I've got to say that feels pretty nice. A true Family Estate...."

Blaze: But I know all of THIS...is YOUR doing. No way would Alison "throw a little party" in her grand mansion like this....I guess this is a fitting "last stop" before I....call it a night.

Cameron furrowed his brow for a moment, registering the slightest flares of anxiety by what she had just said. Prophet was beginning to grow concerned.

"Yes! And who knows, Blaze...you never know where the night might take you.."

Blaze: You're right. I HAVE been worn down. Tired. I've been totally immersed in work at Spectra Couture! I need a nice, long quiet night of uninterrupted sleep...

[to himself] "MMMhmm..."

[laughing]

"Are you kidding me? All i've had the last few weeks are long, quiet nights of uninterrupted sleep...Tonight...I'm getting into SOME kind of trouble!"

He looked over at Alycia for a moment, smiling to himself. As soon as he was about to press Blaze a little further, Nicolas took Karen out on the dancefloor. Cameron was both surprised and delighted, mostly because he didn't know Karen had moves quite like she did. He now maybe understood the Mike/Karen relationship a little better.

"Well.. Go 'head with your bad self, Dr. V!"

Blaze turned to him.

Blaze: Well Cam, after dinner, I'm gonna have to see if YOU can keep up on the dance floor. After all, the best way to keep your figure in tact after a calorie fest is a good whirl on the dance floor...or a roll in the hay.

[laughing]

"Well Blaze, as i'm sure you remember from our little side trips to the gay bars in the city back in the day...usually you and I are successful at BOTH.."

And then...Blaze straight up went and GRABBED Cameron's nipple, tweeking it and laughed.

Blaze: "You're not the ONLY one who can cop a feel, baby boy!"

Cameron's eyes widened for a moment, before laughing a little uncomfortable.

"Oww..Okay...okay, I think.. I think I kind of like it..keep going..quick, blow in my ear while you're doing it!"

Prophet and Foxfire had always shared a somewhat playful relationship, she often being one of the only people early on who seemed entertained by his sometimes crass sense of humor.

Cameron winked at her but his comment was not without intent. He was hoping that even if Cameron and Blaze in HER timeline didn't interact the way that mainstream Blaze and him did, the two were apart of each other.

He watched as Sharon entered and was about to say hello to her, and thank her for her attendance when even MORE shenanigans began to occur around him with Nicolas walking up and playfully goosing Blaze and then Cassandra walked up to them and said Hello. He watched as Blaze and Cassandra interacted with each other.

Cass: Don't think I didn't notice those judgmental glances you, Ava and Alycia were throwing my way. However, if you sent Alycia over for some scoop, you'll be sorely dissappointed..

Oh GOD.. She was a little like Haleigh. Cameron cocked his head to the side and looked at her puzzlingly.

"Actually, since I'm on my third martini...I'll tell you that Alycia and I weren't concerned about you at all.. The woman who has complete dominion over nature and is over 1000 years old however [Ava], seems to be less than thrilled by your arrival...but don't worry...Ava is a bitch to everyone until she isn't anymore, and then she's your friend..."

[on the topic of Cameron putting Cass through the ringer in the Danger Room]

Cass: Sorry to be the one to break this to you but YOU are the least of my worries!

Cameron laughed for a moment before sipping the rest of his martini and promptly grabbing another from one of the servers. She was trying to be feisty...he had seen it in The Danger Room.. He figured he would let THAT one go...for now..

Blaze and Cassandra explained formalities and Cass started to admit her reservations about Morgan.

"There we go girl.. FINALLY some conversation..."

He watched the back and forth for a second before he came incredibly bored. Cameron looked over at Nicolas.

to Nicolas: "Eh.. I'm out of this one... How about a shot, King?"

As Nicolas nodded, Cam and Nic went over to the bar as the bartender poured them each two shots of Fireball, it may not have been the classiest drink, but come on...it's pretty tasty. He smirked at Nicolas as he held up shot one.

"Here's to being the FINEST looking...and ONLY... men on the team! To the King Brothers!"

[ting] Their glasses met as they took the first shot and slammed it down on the table. Cameron picked up the next one and looked at Nic.

"Your turn for the toast.. Then we gotta have a quick chat about 'Girl Friday' over there..." [pointing to Blaze]

 

[MorningStar]

Melrose Place, Apartment #1

Were you expecting...CIRCE?

Delilah ran a hand through her wavy blonde locks.

“Today, I wouldn’t be surprised.”

Delilah waved her hand in a welcoming gesture.

“Please, come in, have a seat.”

Alycia did, and Delilah sat in a overstuffed armchair across from her.

I've had a few conversations with some of the others.

Delilah was about to ask which of the backstabbers were talking about her, but then Alycia continued…

But I'm not here because of anything any one of THEM says or feels.

“Well, thank heavens for that.”

She had to give Alycia credit: she got it. She didn’t tiptoe around, she didn’t make everything about herself, she didn’t do what SHE wanted to, but she understood what Delilah wanted and was happy as a clam to let her have it. Morgan, Alison, BLAZE: they had to make HER the villain so they could feel better about the things they’d done.

Alycia handed her a folder. As she opened it, she found a stack of “memorabilia” from her and Alycia’s time working in New York City. She drew a deep breath in, then looked up from the folder to Alycia’s face with surprise.

“Alycia…where did you get these?”

Alycia went on to describe the mementos Delilah was holding.

This case in particular was high stakes. Klein was on the top of BOTH our lists. He was one of Sharon Kelly's targets, a figure on Mystech's chess board.

“An asshole.”

Alycia’s words took Delilah back to a time before all this strife. They really were a team back then.

Do you remember? You stopped me from taking EMP magnetic wand right up to the War Room floor to try to destroy Haleigh...

“Well, to be fair, there were a lot of times I wanted to take an EMP magnetic wand to Haleigh myself…”

Delilah gave Alycia a crooked smile. It was true, she and Haleigh hadn’t always – or for the most part, really – gotten along. But that didn’t mean she wouldn’t stand in the gap for her, or vice versa. And as much as she and Haleigh had hated each other through the years, ALYCIA and Haleigh hated each other MORE. But Delilah also knew that Haleigh would have laid down her life for Alycia, and still would.

But I have my eye on settling back in NYC. It feels like the right time. Maybe you'll want to do that too.

“New York…”

It seemed like another lifetime. And through the fuzzy lens of her memory it seemed as if nothing bad had ever happened there. That coming to Aerie had set all the bad things in motion. How wonderful it would be to go back to the way things used to be. Living in a real city again.

Alycia stood to say goodbye, taking Delilah's hand. She gave her a small but warm smile in return. As she started to go, Delilah held tight to her hand, her face growing wan.

“Alycia-“

She looked away.

“How did you know it was the right decision to go to Themiscyra? I think…I think I made the wrong choice.”

She looked back to Alycia, holding her gaze for a moment before finally letting her go.

“Thank you for coming to see me.”

My offer is always available if you need me to get you out of here.

“I may just take you up on that.”

As she shut the door behind Alycia, she noticed the open folder still on her coffee table. Alycia’s old business card sat on top, alongside her’s. She had had such a purpose back then. Look at her now. But Alycia…Alycia had come out of all the terrible tragedies of her life STRONGER than ever. She had been completely transformed by her time with the Amazons. She was like a new person. That’s what Delilah needed. She was just so damn sick of being herself, the scapegoat, the nice girl who never raised her voice above a whisper. She had been strong once too. In New York, when she had been a cop, she had been strong. Her life had meant something.

If she and Alison had been speaking, she might have asked her to send her back there, to the old days, through time and space. But unfortunately for time travel, Delilah didn’t care if she never spoke to Alison Marble ever again.

As Delilah opened another bottle of beer, she wondered absentmindedly if Alycia’s offer to get her out of here might include a stop on Themiscyra.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas noticed Cass, but he had already formally spoken. But he was not a RUDE person, and so he looked back at Cassandra again.

So Cass...I can sense a synergy between our power sets. If you are up to it I would love to run some scenarios, find out more about you if I could. I have some things that I am curious about in terms of what you can do. Perhaps later on this week?

He watched the back and forth for a second before he came incredibly bored. Cameron looked over at Nicolas.

to Nicolas: "Eh.. I'm out of this one... How about a shot, King?"

As Nicolas nodded, Cam and Nic went over to the bar as the bartender poured them each two shots of Fireball, it may not have been the classiest drink, but come on...it's pretty tasty. He smirked at Nicolas as he held up shot one.

"Here's to being the FINEST looking...and ONLY... men on the team! To the King Brothers!"

[ting] Their glasses met as they took the first shot and slammed it down on the table. Cameron picked up the next one and looked at Nic.

"Your turn for the toast.. Then we gotta have a quick chat about 'Girl Friday' over there..." [pointing to Blaze]

Nicolas smirked at Cam as he raised the glass.

To the King Brothers...here's to more more love and more money and more trouble!!

The clinked together again and drank, almost as if in a race. Slamming them down, Nicolas became slightly more serious as he regarded Cam and glanced over to the pretty redhead before speaking telepathically.

Blaze has the Siege Perilous. Ali gave it to her in order to satisfy her own curiosity about her alternate selves INCLUDING FOXFIRE. However, the Siege can be used to leave a reality for another...that is how Frost was lost to this universe and Alison has been UNABLE to locate her. If Blaze, in a moment of weakness, does the same, she will be lost to this reality...WE will lose her. And it will be our own fault because we failed to anchor here here, give her her own place in this reality as something other than Morgans sister or our play buddy.

I am monitoring her as intrusively as I can and when the time comes, per Alison's instructions, I will stop her form being lost here. But it is not enough to simply stop her, I need to make her understand that Cam...she BELONGS here. Alison and I have reason to believe that she managed to track her way to this reality because it IS HER TRUE REALITY, where she actually belongs. WE, me and you and Mike, need to come up with a plan to make her see that being here is where she belongs, that she has a real place here.

I did not know Foxfire as well as you did...so I need your help to not only monitor Blaze and alert me if you sense something I miss about her timing and intentions, but I need help figuring out how to anchor her here through Foxfire's narrative, something, some way to give her something to have for herself. Gimme some ideas loverboy, you have minutes, maybe hours to help me pull this together. Cash is of course no object...neither is location.

Nicolas motioned for a third drink.

 

[Prophet]

Minerva's Mansion - Great Room

Nicolas: To the King Brothers... here's to more love, more money and more trouble!

"CHEERS!"

Cameron laughed as they downed the shot. He was starting to feel a little tipsy, he had to admit. Considering that he had only stopped drinking for the DAY about two hours ago, he thought he was doing well.

As the two slammed the shot glasses down, Nicolas look to him and spoke telepathically. Knowing how perceptive Blaze was, Cameron quickly crafted an illusion. Those without PSI Screens would simply see Nicolas drunkenly talking and laughing with each other, completely inconspicuous.

Blaze has the Siege Perilous. Ali gave it to her in order to satisfy her own curiosity about her alternate selves INCLUDING FOXFIRE. However, the Siege can be used to leave a reality for another...that is how Frost was lost to this universe and Alison has been UNABLE to locate her. If Blaze, in a moment of weakness, does the same, she will be lost to this reality...WE will lose her. And it will be our own fault because we failed to anchor here here, give her her own place in this reality as something other than Morgans sister or our play buddy.

I am monitoring her as intrusively as I can and when the time comes, per Alison's instructions, I will stop her form being lost here. But it is not enough to simply stop her, I need to make her understand that Cam...she BELONGS here. Alison and I have reason to believe that she managed to track her way to this reality because it IS HER TRUE REALITY, where she actually belongs. WE, me and you and Mike, need to come up with a plan to make her see that being here is where she belongs, that she has a real place here.

I did not know Foxfire as well as you did...so I need your help to not only monitor Blaze and alert me if you sense something I miss about her timing and intentions, but I need help figuring out how to anchor her here through Foxfire's narrative, something, some way to give her something to have for herself. Gimme some ideas loverboy, you have minutes, maybe hours to help me pull this together. Cash is of course no object...neither is location.

Cameron was disturbed to say the least. He knew Blaze was having a little bit of trouble melding herself into this timeline, and he couldn't blame her. From what he had heard, while the personalities of their cross time alternates were sometimes polarizing, THIS timeline was INCREDIBLY difficult to navigate and understand. What THIS specific group of people had gone through in the mainstream was different, subtly different, and yet it affected their entire dynamic. One only had to look at the awkward and aloof Cassandra to see that this was a group that was very difficult to assimilate into.

Still, he felt a little embarrassed. He thought he was treating Blaze Victory accordingly, and he felt a little hurt that she didn't feel like she could come to him about this kind of thing. The Blaze he knew was a little more 'free' with her emotions..and I guess part of the problem was that Cameron assumed that THIS Blaze would be as well. Cameron shot back telepathically.

"I was worried something like this was brewing. I can sense her emotions and she is definitely using techniques to guard her mind, and she's good at it. I just didn't think she would go THIS extreme...

Though...Blaze in ANY timeline has a flair for the dramatic I guess. I agree, we can't afford to lose her. I've felt like she belongs here ever since I met her. THIS specific timeline suits her so much better than our Foxfire. This IS her true timeline.. I know it... I guess we just have to SHOW her that now...

I'm already starting to think of a few things.. I'll keep you and Mike posted. I've got business to attend to in New York tomorrow, but after that i'll return to Los Angeles, and we will plan something big for her...but for now?"

Cameron stepped back into reality as the illusion he cast was dropped and he smiled at Nicolas.

"We have a good time! Now! If you'd like to join me, I have to say hello to Miss Silver Swan.."

Prophet stood up from the bar and made his way over to Sharon and Karen who were talking.

"Well if it isn't The Silver Swan herself...Sharon, you look absolutely breathtaking.."

Cameron grabbed her hand and gave her a friendly kiss on the lips before embracing her in a hug. Though some might look at them and wonder if there still wasn't something going on with them, Cameron and Sharon couldn't care less. Both of them turned to each other during a time of uncertainty, and from their time together they grew a deep understanding of each other's true nature. They both saw each other as who they were deep inside, and from THAT experience, their relationship would always be somewhat "more" of a friendship, though neither really cared to think of it outside of that.

"I'm very pleased you agreed to come. It feels like I haven't seen you in forever. I've been in New York for so long, and the last time I saw you, well you were delivering a baby! Due to some pressing matters, I should be in Los Angeles for a little bit.. I'd love to grab lunch and catch up..even compare notes on our little psychic succubus over there..." [motioning to Cass, who was talking to Blaze]

Prophet looked at Karen.

"And nice moves, by the way, Dr. Victoria. I can't wait until Morgan hears about THAT one!"

 

[Rampage]

"I was worried something like this was brewing. I can sense her emotions and she is definitely using techniques to guard her mind, and she's good at it. I just didn't think she would go THIS extreme...

Though...Blaze in ANY timeline has a flair for the dramatic I guess. I agree, we can't afford to lose her. I've felt like she belongs here ever since I met her. THIS specific timeline suits her so much better than our Foxfire. This IS her true timeline.. I know it... I guess we just have to SHOW her that now...

I'm already starting to think of a few things.. I'll keep you and Mike posted. I've got business to attend to in New York tomorrow, but after that i'll return to Los Angeles, and we will plan something big for her...but for now?"

Cameron stepped back into reality as the illusion he cast was dropped and he smiled at Nicolas.

"We have a good time! Now! If you'd like to join me, I have to say hello to Miss Silver Swan.."

Prophet stood up from the bar and made his way over to Sharon and Karen who were talking.

"Well if it isn't The Silver Swan herself...Sharon, you look absolutely breathtaking.."

Nicolas switched with Cameron as he moved, exchanging kisses and hugs with both women. He gave Sharon the once-over and smiled.

Very nice Sharon!! I will put in my dance reservation for later on if I can get Ma to ever let me go. She was all over me, a dancing machine!!!

Nicolas one-arm hugged Karen as she gave him an exasperated poke with her fist. He needed this. He winked at Sharon as he continued.

I DID tell your new recruit that I would like to Danger Room exercise with her. I sense that we have powers sets that should work well together. Her aversion to men might be an issue however, considering that her biggest supporters here are male. But an issue for another day huh?

He looked at Karen and made a face...hard to notice except for the two women here and a freaking EMPATH. He was trying to be up but he was missing someone who should be here. He grasped Karen's hand.

Can we take a walk before dinner?

 

[Firebird]

Minerva's Great Room

Blaze eyed Cass with a mix of intrigue and amusement. Cameron seemed to energize her. It was clear they had the start of what could become a great personal friendship developing. Cass also seemed to open up more to Blaze. That was a good thing. Nothing wrong with being open and to the point. Still, there were a few misconceptions that Blaze wanted to clear up.

"Oh is that what you noticed? Well where I come from...when people are staring at ME, I march right up to them and ask them what's caught their eye. How else will I know what to do to hold their attention afterward?"

"I looked at you because you because you have a dark, mysterious allure about yourself. But the allure is blocked by how ALOOF you portray yourself to be. You're supposed to be apart of this team and yet, you act like you're in a prison yard half the time. What's up with that?"


She gulps down another lemon drop, sort of slamming the glass down before as she cast her apple green eyes over the sight of Nicolas and Cameron apparently enjoying a few rounds nearby at the bar. She was unaware that SHE was the topic of THEIR conversation.

Turning her attention back to Cass, the fire elemental's apple green eyes sparkle as she licks some of the sugar off her own lips.

"Morg is my sister. I'm not ashamed of that OR her and I wouldn't change that for anything, BUT I am my own person. I dont blindly agree with her on everything she does just because it's her. But if I think she was on to something right, I WILL back her up. Earlier today, somebody else on this team short changed me just for being Morg's sister. It sucked & I didn't appreciate it, but it showed me just how narrow minded some people around here are."

"I hope that's not the kind of person you are."

She continued to study Cass' overall look and vibe. The girl was very pretty and her aura was different from the others in the group.

"I think you have something unique to offer the Six."

 

[Silver Swan]

Great Room

:: Standing with Ava and Karen, talking with them, the mutate heard the approach of Nicolas and Cameron well before they finally reached the group.::

"Well if it isn't The Silver Swan herself...Sharon, you look absolutely breathtaking.."

Cameron grabbed her hand and gave her a friendly kiss on the lips before embracing her in a hug. Though some might look at them and wonder if there still wasn't something going on with them, Cameron and Sharon couldn't care less. Both of them turned to each other during a time of uncertainty, and from their time together they grew a deep understanding of each other's true nature. They both saw each other as who they were deep inside, and from THAT experience, their relationship would always be somewhat "more" of a friendship, though neither really cared to think of it outside of that.

::Sharon easily received Cameron's affectionate greeting. Cameron DID occupy a special place in Sharon's world now. As unique & distinct as Robert & Gustav (Nicolas' adoptive Father), or even Zachary Armani. Cameron was different than all of these men. For one thing, he was the first one to reach out to her in "THAT WAY" AFTER her return as the Silver Swan. It wasn't in a way that seemed cheap or lecherous, it was something that only those two, in that moment, could understand and respond to each other accordingly. It changed the dynamic of their relationship forever, but not in a bad way.::

"I'm very pleased you agreed to come. It feels like I haven't seen you in forever. I've been in New York for so long, and the last time I saw you, well you were delivering a baby! Due to some pressing matters, I should be in Los Angeles for a little bit.. I'd love to grab lunch and catch up..even compare notes on our little psychic succubus over there..." [motioning to Cass, who was talking to Blaze]

I'm pleased to be here. Everything is quite nice. You did a good job!

And...I look forward to singing too...

:: Something else that Sharon had been reluctant to admit, was that she LOVED to sing, just as a bird sings happily after a storm or at the beautiful light of dawn. Cameron, among a select few others in the Six, had heard her sing. It was a beautiful thing indeed. Cameron's next step was to try to convince Sharon to be Dominique's special guest guest at least ONCE in a while at the Parthenon!::

And Cass....

:: Sharon paused for a moment as she looked over to Cass and Blaze::

There is time and hope for her yet.

Only the wisdom of Athena and the patience of Artemis gives me the strength to carry on with her at this part of her training...

:: speaking of that, as the interaction amongst the group flows seamlessly...::

Nicolas switched with Cameron as he moved, exchanging kisses and hugs with both women. He gave Sharon the once-over and smiled.

Very nice Sharon!! I will put in my dance reservation for later on if I can get Ma to ever let me go. She was all over me, a dancing machine!!!

Nicolas one-arm hugged Karen as she gave him an exasperated poke with her fist. He needed this. He winked at Sharon as he continued.

Oh I'm sure....

:: Sharon said with a raised eyebrow and a bit of a smirk in her tone as she glanced between Karen and Nicolas.::

I DID tell your new recruit that I would like to Danger Room exercise with her. I sense that we have powers sets that should work well together. Her aversion to men might be an issue however, considering that her biggest supporters here are male. But an issue for another day huh?

That's precisely what she needs, Nicolas.

:: Sharon said with fast approval::

Her aversion to men is not unlike Morgan or even Karen's issues with men in the recent past. Time and DEMONSTRATION will help her get through it, but only when she makes the first, ultra important FIRST STEP of allowing herself to TRUST....and not just ANYONE...her [male] TEAMMATES. Who BETTER to start with?

:: Sharon was not yet aware of the exact reason/nature of Ava's displayed contempt toward Cass, but it was ironic that Cass had something in common with both Morgan and Ava, the two that had, thus far, given her the most hard time of things::

 

[Shadow Weaver]

The garden parth

<< Blaze seemed to be relating easily enough to Cass. THAT was a good thing, for BOTH of them! Karen looked on the arrival of Cameron and Nicolas to where they were.>>

Prophet looked at Karen.

"And nice moves, by the way, Dr. Victoria. I can't wait until Morgan hears about THAT one!"

<< Karen looked rather bemused>>

<<sigh!>>

Oh Cameron, Morgan has seen me trip the light fantastic before. Where do you think SHE learned her rhythm and sense of timing on the catwalk?

<< she winks at Cameron. Being the MOTHER of this world's "sorceress supreme" had its perks, including bragging rights when it came to some of her finer talents and skills.>>

<< and then came Nicolas.>>

Nicolas switched with Cameron as he moved, exchanging kisses and hugs with both women. He gave Sharon the once-over and smiled.

Very nice Sharon!! I will put in my dance reservation for later on if I can get Ma to ever let me go. She was all over me, a dancing machine!!!

OH for heaven's sake, Nicolas!

<< rolling her opal blue eyes as Nicolas hugged her and she poked him with her fist.>>

Nicolas one-arm hugged Karen as she gave him an exasperated poke with her fist. He needed this. He winked at Sharon as he continued.

I DID tell your new recruit that I would like to Danger Room exercise with her. I sense that we have powers sets that should work well together. Her aversion to men might be an issue however, considering that her biggest supporters here are male. But an issue for another day huh?

He looked at Karen and made a face...hard to notice except for the two women here and a freaking EMPATH. He was trying to be up but he was missing someone who should be here. He grasped Karen's hand.

Can we take a walk before dinner?

<< Karen nodded in agreement with Sharon's responses about Cass as she took one more glance over Cass and Blaze across the way.>>

<< Nicolas had a look on his face...a flash of emotion as he asked for a private moment with Karen.>>

Of course, dear.

Will you all please excuse us? we'll be back in time for dinner.

<< She stood up with Nicolas, who offered his arm and she slipped hers under and around his>>

What a lovely evening this is turning out to be! Everyone's having such a good time...though there are a few notable absences....

<< they walked outside of the great room, down the hall before turning through a door way that lead them to an outside marble garden path. Karen's blonde hair began to flow a bit in the beautiful night time ocean breeze>>

...Nicolas, what's on your mind?

<< She knew that one of those absent in particular was part of what was troubling him right now...>>