Morningstar

[Silver Swan]

[ Moments later, Sharon emerges on the deck of the candy ship, which is now moving through the air. She takes a moment to stand...looking around and above, surrounded by TRUE DEEP SPACE. She sees the celestial phenomena that is Harbinger's power signature, and hears the mournful bell toll. ]

I never would have imagined, in my wildest dreams...that I would ever be in a place like this....

[ She says softly, to no one in particular.]

[ Harbinger was doing her part, STOPPING the exploitation of the children trapped in the dream coffins. This relative period of calm that those aboard the ship had would not last much longer. ]

[ And soon enough, a RUMBLING could be heard. Harbinger warned them that the enemy was coming.]

There isn't much time....

[ She said quietly as she made her way toward Delilah and Bishop]

Pardon me.

[ She says as she draws near.]

Time grows short, and I'd like to talk with you while we still have this moment and space of relative calm, please.

[ Black Widow, who had taken a moment with Spellbinder as well, was now on deck as well.]

Will you walk with me?

[ And as Delilah agreed, the two women step away from Haleigh and Bishop, they soon have some privacy]

Delilah...

[ Taking one of Delilah's hands into her own]

Haleigh, Myself, AND MORGAN will be here with you and Bishop. If there is ANY way that we can AVERT the outcome Harbinger has seen, Spellbinder WILL find it. You DO know that, don't you?

[ Sharon didn't say this in an accusatory way as she searches Delilah's blue eyes with her own eyes.]

In order for all of us to be effective, and to give Alexia and you the BEST chance that we can, we MUST go forward with open and clear minds and HEARTS.

Delilah, you and Morgan have been life long friends. That is NOT a common thing, and neither of you are common people. You've faced things that others couldn't even dream of, and many times over, you've both stood in the gap for one another, come through for one another and helped each other to carry on. The level of your love and friendship is legendary even amongst your peers. It wasn't am act for EITHER of you. NEITHER is the pain the you both have been for all these months. It has taken a toll on both of you.

Despite that pain, despite EVERYTHING else...Morgan is HERE with you because she LOVES you, and because she wants to do WHATEVER SHE CAN to help you. You're a brave woman Delilah. ONLY a brave person with a TRUE and honorable spirit- the kind that even earned ATHENA'S notice- could search her own heart and know the truth. You love Morgan as well, you know this woman and you know what her true motivations are. We've ALL made mistakes, and In another time and place, this would all be handled different, but we are here now, and time is something we DON'T have.

The greatest tragedy of an Amazon, is that she can only be born into that glory through DEATH, usually caused by an act of violence, and often she does not have time to make peace with or say goodbye to those who matter the most to her.

[ The rumbling around them grows a bit louder...but the relative tranquility on the candy ship holds]

Delilah, please.... in the name of the love that you two have shared with one another for all these years...go to your best friend this one last time. RESTORE your hearts, and Allow yourselves to be FREE of the pain and negativity so that you will be ready to do what must be done. That LOVE and CLARITY that you will both gain may be what changes the outcome!

 

[Ruby]

The Otherworld – Castle

“There IS something we can do, Ruby. We can bring Badiane to US. There is NO WHERE ELSE for us to go, and it's time we made our stand HERE. I'll use my magicks to INTERRUPT movement of the dream energy/souls of these children. THAT will bring her here to us.”

:: Before Cass could reply, Cameron stepped in. ::

“We need to move fast, she’s VERY reliant on this type of energy, it feels almost like some kind of psychic “nourishment” to her. If we can mess with her supply, we might just have a chance.”

:: And so it went, everybody talking about how to stop Badiane and bring Alexia, as well as the other children, home. Cass tuned most of it out, as she moved off to the side away from the others. The floor of children in their dream coffins was getting to her and she needed a moment to regroup. She tried to keep her focus on the mission at hand, but it was hard NOT to identify with the children being away from their mamas, and the dream she had did not help matters. She placed her right hand on her forehead. She wasn’t aware of Blaze’s presence until her friend took her hand in hers. ::

“All these children…away from their mamas…”

Firebird: “Focus, Cassie! I know it’s hard, but we WILL bring them all back to their homes. Their mamas WILL hold them ALL once again. It’s OUR job to make that happen.”

:: Cass squeezed Blaze’s hand. It helped to know that somebody was there for her to bring her to focus on the matters at hand when it became too overwhelming. ::

“Thank you.”

:: Cass took a deep breath as she and Blaze rejoined the others. Alison was giving orders to everybody. ::

Ruby, Rampage, when I move...I want you both to flank me. Prophet is going to ensure that my action will not JAR or cause any kind of harm or psychic feedback to the children, BUT this energy that has been pulled from them...it can't be returned now. Just as Spellbinder has been able to tap into and manipulate Badiane's own magicks, I can achieve a similar effect. Instead of just leaving this siphoned energy to go to waste, I'm going to divert some of it to each of you, given how you both can dervive sustenance from energy of an astral nature. You'll need all the strength you can muster to stand against Badiane, AND to defend yourselves and the rest of the team.

“Okay. I’ll be ready.”

:: The plan was set, and everybody was in their places. ::

Alison: “Ruby, Rampage…to me.”

:: Cass immediately went to Alison’s left side. A low hum could be heard as her ruby pendant began to glow. Cass could almost FEEL her energy reserves being filled and she briefly closed her eyes, welcoming it. When she opened them, her eyes were sparkling. Her mind was focused as she awaited her next move. ::

Alison: ”Get ready, SHE’S COMING!”

:: Cass tensed slightly. ::

 

[MorningStar]

As she pulled away from Bishop, Sharon approached her.

Time grows short, and I'd like to talk with you while we still have this moment and space of relative calm, please. Will you walk with me?

Delilah could only nod, and began to follow the mutate. Sharon took Delilah's hand, and Delilah clutched it in hers.

Delilah...Haleigh, Myself, AND MORGAN will be here with you and Bishop. If there is ANY way that we can AVERT the outcome Harbinger has seen, Spellbinder WILL find it. You DO know that, don't you?

Delilah nodded, but in her heart, she knew this was the end. She also knew her friends would try - Haleigh was very likely to get herself killed trying . But what Alison had seen would come to pass - it always did. Just as she hadn't been able to prevent Cameron from being take by the Purifiers, even though she had know it was going to happen, they wouldn't be able to prevent this.

In order for all of us to be effective, and to give Alexia and you the BEST chance that we can, we MUST go forward with open and clear minds and HEARTS.

Sharon spoke of her life long friendship with Morgan, and as she did, images flooded Delilah's mind. Memories. Two little blonde-haired girls playing dress up, going to school dances. Then later side by side with Valiant, then coming to the Six. Comforting Morgan after Blaze's death, out in the club together, Master Mold, Limbo, atop the Empire State Building with Morgan when she was held by Bianca...

All the happiness, all the pain and loss and grief.

<< FLASH! >>

Delilah, I’ve known you FOREVER and yet, as I stand here tonight…I don’t understand what I’m seeing, what I’m HEARING. All I know is, the girl that has ALWAYS been and ALWAYS WILL BE my BEST FRIEND…my SISTER…is attacking someone we BOTH love and cherish…for SAVING YOUR LIFE.

Hmm…surprise surprise. You side with Alison. What ELSE is new? I don’t know why I would expect YOU to understand. That would require FEELINGS.”

<< FLASH! >>

She listened, really listened, to Sharon's words. But how could she forgive Morgan? She felt so betrayed - the one person who she thought would always be in her corner had condoned taking everything away from her. She looked over to where Morgan stood, her brow furrowed. And she remembered. Going into the ocean because she had killed Bishop. How it felt to survive and feel responsible. How her team had saved her from herself that night. How Morgan had been there for her when she had returned from death...

<< FLASH! >>

“Morgan!”

She said it with surprise, for her friend had not been on the island the day before. Delilah then, without a tear, hugged Morgan tightly.

“I’m so sorry.”

Hush now! There's nothing to be sorry about!

<< FLASH! >>

The greatest tragedy of an Amazon, is that she can only be born into that glory through DEATH, usually caused by an act of violence, and often she does not have time to make peace with or say goodbye to those who matter the most to her.

She looked once again at Morgan, hesitant, uncertain. Badiane was coming. They could all feel it.

Delilah, please.... in the name of the love that you two have shared with one another for all these years...go to your best friend this one last time. RESTORE your hearts, and Allow yourselves to be FREE of the pain and negativity so that you will be ready to do what must be done. That LOVE and CLARITY that you will both gain may be what changes the outcome!

Delilah paused, then nodded. She hugged Sharon tightly.

"Thank you, for everything. You've been a good friend, Sharon."

Pulling away, she walked slowly to where Spellbinder stood.

"Morgan?"

 

[Spellbinder]

<< In the absence of Firebird, Harbinger or Shadow Weaver, Sharon had helped Morgan at a moment when she needed it the most. >>

<< The woman understood, and gave Morgan that safe space to express and let go. But Sharon didn't just let Morgan wash away in a sea of tears. She called out to her icy heart and implored her to be TRUE to it, herself AND her best friend. This may be their LAST time seeing each other and if it is, don't let it end with pain and negativity. >>

<< Sharon left to go speak with Delilah, as Haleigh approaches Morgan, and the two women look into each others eyes. Both trying not to shed any tears.>>

I'll do everything I can, Haleigh. I AM Sorceress Supreme. Badiane will find out what that means. I know you'll do everything YOU can as well. You've proven that SO many times.

<< FLASH!>>

<< The Nervous/Super Soldier Caper, Master Mold, Arklay Mansion, Bishop, The Red Moon, Viper, Bianca Ceasul & Black (again).>>

<< Morgan recalls those paticular capers, where Black Widow had stepped up and knocked it out of the park. She was driven by a heart that she liked to pretend she didn't have. She & Morgan were VERY similar in that way.>>

Bishop and Alexia's lives will depend on you, and There's no one better to have by our side in the face of such odds then YOU, Black Widow.

<< Morgan squeezes Haleigh's hand, and slowly moves past her, making her way to the upper deck, but on the opposite away from where Bishop and Delilah were. She saw Sharon with Delilah, but she did not try to focus on what they were saying. She was already FEELING the SHIFT in the flow of Badiane's mystic energy around them. The Black Hole itself was ANGRY and so too was it's mistress.>>

<< Spellbinder began trying to breathe deeply to center herself. She closed her eyes once. Sharon and Delilah had closed some of the distance as they walked together. Spellbinder contined to breathe deeply, "calling" Badiane's magick to her , prepping as a conductor would, for a mad symphony. But before she could truly immerse herself, there was one VERY important matter at hand.>>

"Morgan?"

<< Morgan opens her violet eyes and sees Delilah, now standing before her.>>

Yes, Delilah?

<< Morgan studied her friend for a moment, briefly noting Sharon in the near background watching, but keeping a suitable distance.>>

<< Morgan remained calm and composed. She'd done what Sharon said, & she knew what she wanted to say. She'd make this count...in case she could NOT do what they all hoped she'd somehow be able to do.>>

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah felt wooden, not really sure what to say. She just looked into Morgan's face for a beat, and almost turned away, but she remembered Sharon's words, imploring her.

"I just wanted to say...I don't want you to feel - when I'm gone - any sort of responsibility. I know you did everything you could."

She fidgeted. Still unsure of what else she should say, and not entirely sure that Morgan wasn't about to start yelling at her. She turned her head and looked out once again on the vastness of space in front of them, avoiding Morgan's violet eyes.

"We've been through a lot, the two of us, haven't we? We've died and come back, loved, lost."

She turned back to face Morgan, now meeting her stare.

"I won't be there, anymore, to help you, help the team, to try and keep everyone safe. But there is one last thing I can do before I go."

She paused, searching Morgan's face.

"I forgive you, Morgan. I know your heart was in the right place."

She held up a hand.

"But know I wouldn't trade my daughter's life for anything in this world, or the next. I have no regrets when it comes to bringing her into this world."

He face softened.

"Just remember, when I'm gone - don't forget that you aren't a demon, you're human, even if there's no one around to recognize it. Remember me?"

She glanced away uncomfortably.

"That's all I wanted to say."

She turned to walk away.

 

[Spellbinder]

<< A part of Morgan did still expect Delilah to spit some VENOM at her- there was this urge to give in ot the reflex to be defensive. And Delilah seemed to struggle a bit at first as well. Either one of them could have retreated but they BOTH remembered Sharon's words.>>

"I just wanted to say...I don't want you to feel - when I'm gone - any sort of responsibility. I know you did everything you could."

She fidgeted. Still unsure of what else she should say, and not entirely sure that Morgan wasn't about to start yelling at her. She turned her head and looked out once again on the vastness of space in front of them, avoiding Morgan's violet eyes.

How can I not, Delilah? You're my best friend, you're FAMILY to me, Firebird, my mom, Alison....it's NATURAL to feel responsible for your loved ones.

<< Morgan continued to gaze at Delilah's bright blue eyes>>

And it's partially my fault that we're here now, isn't it?

"We've been through a lot, the two of us, haven't we? We've died and come back, loved, lost."

She turned back to face Morgan, now meeting her stare.

"I won't be there, anymore, to help you, help the team, to try and keep everyone safe. But there is one last thing I can do before I go."

She paused, searching Morgan's face.

<< Spellbinder's face tightened, as she struggled to hide the dismay, she swallowed hard. Her violet eyes briefly darted to Sharon, who stood nearby watching, silently encouraging them BOTH.>>

Sharon's words ring out in Morgan's mind: Be true to your heart, yourself, to DELILAH

"I forgive you, Morgan. I know your heart was in the right place."

She held up a hand.

"But know I wouldn't trade my daughter's life for anything in this world, or the next. I have no regrets when it comes to bringing her into this world."

<< Now, borrowing a leaf from HALEIGH, Morgan will not be diverted from what she needs to say>>

Delilah, I'm the one who owes you an apology. Alison and I we....we made a made a MISTAKE, a TERRIBLE MISTAKE.

<< Morgan found her voice, and her posture seemed to change as she no longer held up a "wall" between herself and her emotions in this moment with Delilah.>>

We didn't rely on our TRUST and LOVE for you. We were caught up in FEAR. We wanted to protect you, but we went about it in such awrong way. We didn't remember who you were, WHY we felt about you the way we always have. I didn't trust you with your own life decisions and I was wrong with that. I didn't treat you as a peer, the equal, the best friend and CONFIDANT you've been to me since were small children. I took away your right to choose, give you what you needed to make an informed decision, and worse, I didn't provide you with the safety and SUPPORT that you needed, not like you did for me during the Inferno...or my mom, when Master Mold pulled me through the seige perilous

I'm SORRY, Delilah.

<< Tears formed and fell from her violet eyes as she felt eyes almost PULSATING from the grief and guilt that was once again coming out of her>>

I'm very SORRY for the hurt I've caused you. That was never my intention, and now....

<< Shutting her eyes tightly>>

Now I have to try and find some way to STOP Harbinger's vision from coming to pass!

He face softened.

"Just remember, when I'm gone - don't forget that you aren't a demon, you're human, even if there's no one around to recognize it. Remember me?"

She glanced away uncomfortably.

<< Delilah must have known that Morgan was going to HAVE to tap into the power of LIMBO itself during this battle, and that she WOULD reveal her true nature, that awful demonic visage that is DARKCHILD. But anytime before, from the INFERNO, to the Bianca Ceasul caper, Delilah was one of the FEW that was not completely TERRIFIED of Morgan's dark soul & magicks. She ALWAYS saw through to the core, that place in her heart, no matter if it was as small as the ACORN that Ororo taught her to summon. She believe in Morgan even when Morgan had lost her way.>>

I didn't believe in you, the way you believed in me....

<< Morgan shut her eyes tightly. So strong was her grief now, that Firebird and Rampage both registered her distress. Sharon, looking concerned, took a few steps closer, afraid that Morgan might buckle- they NEEDED her "TOGETHER", but HALEIGH gently placed a hand on Sharon's arm, quietly asking her to wait...and to let Morgan and Delilah work through it themselves. They hybrid knew Morgan had it in her. She'd come this far...>>

"That's all I wanted to say."

She turned to walk away.

Wait...

<< Spellbinder steps after her.>>

You're my best friend...FOREVER. I love you, Dee.

<< She pulls Delilah into a hug, not caring what anyone thinks>>

If....if I CAN'T SAVE you this night....I will ALWAYS remember you, and I'll make sure that Alexia knows just how strong, and BEAUTIFUL a ray of light you are!

<< Morgan tightly embraces Delilah, and in that moment, they'd both done what Sharon implored them to do. Sharon looks at Haleigh and Bishop, so proud of both of these young women, so RELIEVED that they had the courage and the STRENGTH to find each other for what may be the last time!>>

<< Morgan lets go of Delilah.>>

Thank you...for EVERYTHING. I promise that what youre doing for your daughter will NOT be in vain.

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah, I'm the one who owes you an apology. Alison and I we....we made a made a MISTAKE, a TERRIBLE MISTAKE.

Delilah could not hide her shock at what she was hearing. Morgan Victoria just didn't apologize, and she would never admit to being wrong even when she was. This was unprecedented and completely unexpected.

I took away your right to choose, give you what you needed to make an informed decision, and worse, I didn't provide you with the safety and SUPPORT that you needed, not like you did for me during the Inferno...or my mom, when Master Mold pulled me through the siege perilous.

I'm SORRY, Delilah. I'm very SORRY for the hurt I've caused you. That was never my intention....

She was speechless. Her emotions were in turmoil within her, not knowing what to feel or think at this moment. But wasn't this what she had wanted all along? For Morgan to admit she had been wrong, for her to be sorry for what she'd done? What more did she need, and what good would it do now? Here, at the end, by giving Morgan what she had thought she needed, Delilah got what she too needed in return.

Now I have to try and find some way to STOP Harbinger's vision from coming to pass!

Delilah shook her head.

"No...we all know that Alison's vision will come to pass, no matter what we do. It cannot be changed - don't waste your efforts: it's not me we have come here to save. Save my daughter, Morgan, your namesake."

She turned away, but Morgan stopped her from leaving.

You're my best friend...FOREVER. I love you, Dee.

Morgan proceeded to hug her. Delilah froze. She had started this interaction paying lip service to honor Sharon, to lighten Morgan's load in respect for their shared history. But now? Could Delilah truly let it all go, and be free - finally - of her anger?

Slowly, she put her arms around Morgan, and clasped her tight.

Yes.

"I love you too. You always have been, and always will be, my best friend."

If....if I CAN'T SAVE you this night....I will ALWAYS remember you, and I'll make sure that Alexia knows just how strong, and BEAUTIFUL a ray of light you are!

"Keep her safe, teach her to be strong, like you. Tell her about the good times, when we were happy."

She closed her eyes, hugging Morgan tighter. It was as if a huge weight had been taken from her shoulders. Pulling back, Delilah blinked and wiped her eyes.

Thank you...for EVERYTHING. I promise that what you're doing for your daughter will NOT be in vain.

She smiled, and though it was tinged with sadness, it was genuine.

"I trust you - I know you won't let me down."

 

[Black Widow]

Haleigh expected some pushback, but received none. It was a pleasant surprise.

Bishop: Only Alexia matters.

Morningstar: Keep her safe, Haleigh. Whatever happens, take her home.

Haleigh boarded after them, determined and stoic.

"I'll do WHATEVER it takes, Delilah. I promise you that."

She replied sincerely, but her demeanor had a steely edge. Sharon and Morgan were on board but made some distance, they were talking privately. Haleigh tried not to eavesdrop, but she knew Morgan was crying, and it was no mystery as to why. If Haleigh thought it was safe to stand near Delilah and Bishop, she was sorely mistaken.

Delilah: I don't want to die.

It was a heartbreaking admission. Haleigh gave them some space when she saw that for once, Bishop wasn't going to be a total asshole.

Not gonna cry, not gonna cry, not gonna cry!

She told herself desperately. She had talked her way onto the ship with the task of protecting Bishop and Alexia, and she wouldn't neglect that..... but she wasn't going to let Delilah die, not without a fight. If it cost her OWN life, that would be acceptable, but Delilah deserved to live, and Haleigh was going to do everything in her power to make that happen.

Morgan was alone now, and Haleigh approached her slowly. Both women seemed to draw strength from each other.

Morgan: I'll do everything I can, Haleigh. I AM Sorceress Supreme. Badiane will find out what that means. I know you'll do everything YOU can as well. You've proven that SO many times.

"I'll be happy to prove it again if I have to, so if Delilah dies, you'd better strike me down next, that way I drag her ass BACK from the afterlife."

Morgan: Bishop and Alexia's lives will depend on you, and there's no one better to have on our side in the face of such odds than YOU, Black Widow.

"Yeah, that's 'cause I say FUCCK THE ODDS, I do what I WANT."

She managed a smug smile. She sounded much more confident than she felt but she knew that she couldn't let herself fall apart, she couldn't let herself doubt their success. Her team needed strength and valor. They needed to believe everything would be okay.

Morgan and Delilah found each other, and as soon as Haleigh was sure they wouldn't kill each other, she backed away. It was clearly a poignant moment for them, and Sharon almost moved in, but Haleigh intercepted her.

"Wait, Sharon..... she'll pull through it. They need to work through this by themselves."

Sharon nodded and dropped back. Haleigh went over to the railing where Bishop was trying to look tough. She wasn't a telepath but she could guess all the thoughts in his head.

"On behalf of the ship's crew, I'd like to thank you for sailing aboard the USS Estrogen Corvette. If someone hands you a bucket, please begin bailing the tears overboard to avoid imminent submersion. We appreciate your cooperation."

Would he appreciate a little humor? She didn't know or care. She didn't give a damn about him at all, but she needed him to do his part, and if he thought he could save Delilah he'd end up getting his kid killed trying to do it.

"You and I have our differences Bishop, but I MEANT what I said to Delilah. I'll do whatever it takes-- but I need YOU to do your part. Stick to me like glue. EVERYBODY will be trying to keep Delilah alive, there's nothing more you can do to help her, except to make sure Alexia DOESN'T SEE HER FALL."

 

[Bishop]

Watching Delilah walk away from him almost broke him. She spoke with Sharon, and then approached Morgan. He would normally have worried about Delilah getting hurt, but what did it matter now?

He turned away, mentally preparing for what was about to happen. He leaned on the railing, looking out at the black. How had they gotten here? Everything he had done was to keep the two of them safe, and it had been for nothing. Now he was on a ship made of candy, with a bunch of people that hated him and would probably leave him there, waiting to watch the woman he loved die in front of him.

"Fuck. Me."

He shook his head. Things could not possibly get worse than they were right now.

"On behalf of the ship's crew, I'd like to thank you for sailing aboard the USS Estrogen Corvette. If someone hands you a bucket, please begin bailing the tears overboard to avoid imminent submersion. We appreciate your cooperation."

Apparently it actually could get worse.

"Haleigh."

He didn't look at her.

"Maybe you'd like to lie down - I know the strain of making joke must be taking its toll on you."

"You and I have our differences Bishop, but I MEANT what I said to Delilah. I'll do whatever it takes-- but I need YOU to do your part. Stick to me like glue. EVERYBODY will be trying to keep Delilah alive, there's nothing more you can do to help her, except to make sure Alexia DOESN'T SEE HER FALL."

Bishop turned his head towards Haleigh. He just looked at her for a minute, then turned back to the view of space.

"You think I would risk my child, for anything? I destroyed every chance I had with Delilah for that little girl - do you think I would fail her now? I promised Delilah I would take care of Alexia, and I will."

He didn't get angry, he was just very matter-of-fact in his manner. He turned around, leaning his back against the railing, and crossed his arms over his chest.

"I KNOW what I have to do, Haleigh. Alexia is the mission, and the mission is all that matters. So you just worry about what you're going to do. This isn't my first time."

But this time, his daughter would live - if he had to throw every one of the Six into the black hole himself, she would live.

 

[Seer]

Badiane: How DARE YOU, witch! You'll PAY for stealing what is rightfully MINE!


<< The spatial distortion around the entire grows and from Harbinger's 9 o'clock, a rushing "TIDAL WAVE" of raging flame energy comes charging for the witch. Harbinger had been so involved in CUTTING of Badiane's supply of stolen dream/soul energy from the captive children, that she was truly caught offguard. Just now registering what was coming for her!>>

"Harbinger, WATCH OUT!!!"

<< As the fire elemental lifts off the ground and zooms over toward the witch, grabbing her and carrying her out of the direct path of the attack, Persephone steps forward in front of the others on the ground and extends her hands up out to either side. Winds howl and thunder CRACKS, as the goddess' hair flows, and she summons an ARCTIC BLAST of WIND and COLD that is well beyond the FREEZING point. She STOPS the wave, narrowing her eyes, she then thrusts her hands forward and increases the wind speed beyond GALE force, literally blowing the attack away. >>

<< The Six on the ground quickly join Persephone, Firebird and Harbinger, standing together to face their foe. On the ship Silver Swan commands her silver eye mask to return over her eyes and quickly runs to join Black Widow. Both women stand on either side of MorningStar and Bishop. Sharon looks over and speaks>>

Black Widow, Spellbinder's cloaking spell still holds but...

<< The mutate gestures back behind them, pointing to Spellbinder, who is sitting in a meditative position, floating above a glowing, violet hued, slowly spinning pentagram of power. The sorceress has her eyes shut and she is concentrating intently>>

....she must NOT be disturbed! She's once again tapping into Badiane's own mystic energies in order to use them against her. IF Badiane somehow senses this, or discovers us, you & I will HAVE to block for her! We must give Spellbinder the time and room she needs to work for as long as we can!

<< Badiane appears, facing them all, and DWARING them with her immense stature, even those on the ship, which now faces the otherworldly witch, find themselves looking UP toward their foe. The Black dream hole, now BEHIND her, seems to frame her as a terrifying and unholy halo or aura. It swirls, shimmers, emmits jagged bolts of cosmic enegy, and it seems ANGRY, much like it's creator.>>

Badiane: How DARE you interfere!


<< She bellows at Harbinger! >>

Badiane: do you REALLY think that this is the end? Do you think that you'll STOP the inevitable? Their energy was merely the appetizer. I have the KEY...the MAIN COURSE right here in my hand!


<< She extends one of her hands forward and opens it, palm up. a globe of dark magick forms, and from it, ALEXIA appears. The child looks pale, EXHAUSTED, and very sad, as she is now held tightly by Badiane.>>

Badiane: BEHOLD. THE KEY! Her dreams are the sweetest of all! Her POWER makes her PERFECTLY suitable!

 

[Harbinger]

:: The flow of the dreams and soul energy of the children to the black hole was like a rushing river! But despite this profane use of magick to violate the most innocent of victims like this, there still had to be MOVEMENT from the source to the destination. Harbinger worked in the same arena as Spellbinder, but from a different point of entry, as evidenced by the celestial "clock" that manifested in the open space all around them.::

:: She began to stem the tide of the energy flow. Using her power to slow it down, then bottle neck it, and finally, CUT IT OFF. Prophet followed behind her, using his power to shield the children from any psychic backlash. Though he had a VERY large "crowd" to control, it was MUCH easier to work with the minds and spirits of young children.::

:: The precog felt the indication of SUCCESS. The Black Dream Hole was rumbling with unexpected ANGER, as if it were a thing ALIVE. But that wasn't the only thing angered by what she'd just done::

:: The space around them seemed to warp and distort, as Badiane's voice rang out around them. The precog was attempting to lay a TK trap/Temporal distortion field where she perceived Badiane was going to be...but in that moment of focus...::

"Harbinger, WATCH OUT!!!"

<< As the fire elemental lifts off the ground and zooms over toward the witch, grabbing her and carrying her out of the direct path of the attack, Persephone steps forward in front of the others on the ground and extends her hands up out to either side. Winds howl and thunder CRACKS, as the goddess' hair flows, and she summons an ARCTIC BLAST of WIND and COLD that is well beyond the FREEZING point. She STOPS the wave, narrowing her eyes, she then thrusts her hands forward and increases the wind speed beyond GALE force, literally blowing the attack away. >>

<< The Six on the ground quickly join Persephone, Firebird and Harbinger, standing together to face their foe. On the ship Silver Swan commands her silver eye mask to return over her eyes and quickly runs to join Black Widow. Both women stand on either side of MorningStar and Bishop. Sharon looks over and speaks>>

:: She stays loose, letting Firebird maneuver them out of the path of the attack, and Persephone manages to stop it.::

Nicely done, both of you!

::She says with graitutde to Blaze and Ava. The others quickly rally around the trio, all faced with the monstrous woman staring down at them::


Badiane: How DARE you interfere!

<< She bellows at Harbinger! >>

Harbinger: You don't know us very well. You've underestimated us at every turn.

I must keep her focused on US as long as I can!

Badiane: Your power is INFANTESIMAL compared to mine!

Harbinger: Power withought WILL and...HEART to drive it , OR creativity to achieve the desired outcome is MEANINGLESS. ::She draws on her memories as the Six's tactician, before stepping into her destiny as Harbinger:: Preying on the WEAK and innocent doesn't make you POWERFUL. We WON'T STOP coming for you until we have Alexia, and ALL these children FREE.

 

[Seer]

<< Badiane laughs softly as Harbinger and the others defy her.>>

Why would they want to be free, when I've given them a reward beyond measure for serving ME? They'll NEVER grow old, they'll NEVER know the pain of loss, suffering, BETRAYAL...not like all of YOU!

<< Thunder crashes, and jagged bolts of dark energy crash down around Badiane, some BARELY missing the candy ship, and several other striking the ground before the Six. She looks at Alexia and smiles with satisfaction>>

Badiane: And THIS one...

<< Holding Alexia up a bit more>>

Badiane: She will ENSURE that the black dream hole GROWS, allowing me to swallow ALL that exists in the cosmos! EVERYTHING TO ME!

<< At her command, tendrils charge forth from the black hole, and LOCK on to Alexia, draining her mutant energy, her innocence, her very LIFE. Alexia's eyes SNAP OPEN with shock, disorientation and PAIN as she shrieks.>>

<< The members of the six, both on the ground and the ship are HORRIFIED. The reaction on the ship is WORSE. Silver Swan, a mother herself, and Black Widow MUST be the anchors for Delilah and Bishop, while Spellbinder....she's DISAPPEARED!?>>

Ruby: STOP IT, YOU MONSTER!

Badiane: It is TOO LATE. The black dream hole WANTS ALL OF HER ENERGY NOW!!!

<< Badiane squeezes the child tighter. Thunder crashes once more and Alexia screams until her voice cracks.>>

<< Members of the Six on the ground CHARGE forward, each of them releasing an attack against Badiane's form. Only Harbinger holds back...and the reason why becomes painfully apparent.>>

HARBINGER: NO! STOP.....

<< She yells for her teammates to halt...but its too late.>>

<< Firebird, Persephone, Rampage, Prophet and Ruby are all SAVAGELY REPELED by a BARRIER that has an energy signature that looks a little TOO familiar to that of BLACK'S>>

<< The Six, PAINFULLY halted in their approach, throttled and now sent flying backward, are JUST caught and CUSHIONED by Harbinger's TK, allowing them to AVOID any further injury from another impact.>>

Harbinger: She's SURROUNDED by a BARRIER between US and her that will ABSORB all projections. The MORE energy we devote to trying to break through and attack her, the more powerful and vicious will be the deflection BACK at us!

<< The precog's face betrayed the strain of trying to remain focused, AND using her own TK power to BLOCK the BACKLASH of their collective efforts against Badiane's barrier. Badiane was hurting...KILLING this child before their very eyes, and the Black Dream Hole was now GLOWING as it GREW in size and POWER.>>

<< Some members on the ground expressed dismay and agitation at Harbinger, as to why she was not doing more. >>

Habinger: I KNOW it's BAD...STAND FAST! :: She replies with force:: Would you deplete yourselves in an effort that will lead to NOTHING?!

<< She knew what was coming, and the role each of them would play soon. As AWFUL as this was...Badiane was about to be taken at her measure, and THEN, she would learn...she would FEEL who THEY were.>>

 

[MorningStar]

The ship

Harbinger was almost taken down by Badiane’s flame attack, thankfully saved by Firebird and Persephone. Those of them on the ship couldn’t interfere for fear that their presence would be revealed.

Badiane towered above them, the black dream hole behind her. Delilah could feel the pull of the black hole – it seemed the antithesis to herself, to her light. She shivered.

Badiane bellowed to Harbinger, but then in a swirl of magick, ALEXIA appeared, locked tight in her grasp!

BEHOLD. THE KEY! Her dreams are the sweetest of all! Her POWER makes her PERFECTLY suitable!

“No!”

Delilah without thinking rushed forward towards Alexia, but Bishop held her back.

Delilah fought against Maxim, tears streaming down her face, trying to get to her child screaming in pain. No matter what their plan was, she couldn’t bear to see Alexia, eyes wide with fear and pain, as the black hole drained her life force.

Delilah was forced to watch helplessly as the members of the Six not on the ship with them attacked Badiane and were brutally rebuked.

“We can’t wait! It’s killing her!”

 

[Bishop]

The ship

He stood on the deck of the ship as if it were the Gingerbread Titanic, tense and alert – waiting for the signal. He hated waiting.

It seemed like things were going to be over before they began, with Harbinger nearly snuffed out by Badiane’s first volley, but the other redhead and the one who looked like a movie star saved her ass, luckily for them all, or it would have been the shortest battle in history.

Badiane stood in front of them, towering over them but not seeing those on the ship. The black hole was behind her – as much as he believed in Delilah, how could they hope to survive against THAT?

His heart stopped in his chest as Alexia appeared. She looked so frail, not at all like the last time he had seen her in the park. He clenched his fist, willing every cell of his body to hold, to wait for the right time, to not leap off the side to rescue his baby.

Unfortunately, Delilah was not so steadfast.

No!

She moved as if she WAS going to leap off the side of the ship, but Bishop grabbed her, locking his arms around her from behind as she struggled and kicked at him.

“Delilah, no – you know you can’t, not yet. You HAVE to wait or this will all have been for nothing. You have to wait, darlin’.”

“We can’t wait! It’s killing her!”

She was crying, and Alexia was screaming in pain now, the black hole sucking the life from her little body. It was all he could do to hold it together himself.

“She’s going to be allright. You have to trust Harbinger, trust Spellbinder. Wait for the right time. You have to pull yourself together. Focus! Focus on what you are about to do. So that you can ram that bitch’s smug smile up her fat ten story tall ass.”

 

[Spellbinder]

<< As she sits/floats above her pentagram of power, she concentrates, with each cycle, she searches The Darkhold with her mind's eye. This book of shadows and its pages of arcane power and knowledge has moved through the bloodline of Hecate for centuries. The last member of Morgan's immediate family that made a physical update to it was Verna Eckert, her "grammie", who faced down Barbas several decades before SHE was even thought of. >>

<< She needs the knowledge and access to power from this book now more than EVER.>>

<< She does not break her concentration even as Badiane appears and confronts the Six.>>

<< In her mind, pages flip/turn at rapid speed....until....>>

YES....THIS IS WHAT I NEED!

<< But she doesnt say anything to others, rather she DISAPPEARS into a stepping disc without them noticing.>>

<< Badiane brutalizes poor Alexia, the Six's ground team tries to intervene, only to be painfully repelled, while Delilah is now beside herself over the plight of her child, & understandibly so. Bishop does his best to steady her, with Silver Swan and Black Widow poised and desperate to do SOMETHING, ANYTHING, but knowing they CAN'T just yet. >>

<< A split screen view. The pained, tear streaked, screaming face of Alexia in the center. Delilah and Maxim's pained faces on the top, and alternating views of Silver Swan, Black Widow, and the Six's ground team on the bottom.>>

She was crying, and Alexia was screaming in pain now, the black hole sucking the life from her little body. It was all he could do to hold it together himself.

“She’s going to be allright. You have to trust Harbinger, trust Spellbinder. Wait for the right time. You have to pull yourself together. Focus! Focus on what you are about to do. So that you can ram that bitch’s smug smile up her fat ten story tall ass.”

Habinger: I KNOW it's BAD...STAND FAST! :: She replies with force:: Would you deplete yourselves in an effort that will lead to NOTHING?!

<< She knew what was coming, and the role each of them would play soon. As AWFUL as this was...Badiane was about to be taken at her measure, and THEN, she would learn...she would FEEL who THEY were.>>

<< And just as it became BEYOND unbearable, with Badiane's obscene look of utter JOY to top it all off as she sacrifices Alexia Morganna to the Black Dream Hole. Her look of joy SUDDENLY becomes a look of PAIN and utter SHOCK as she is STAGGERED by massive eldritch bolt that CRASHES DOWN, slamming into her HEAD and assaulting her on a variety of levels.>>

ENOUGH!

<< Chimes sound off...>>

NO MORE, Badiane!!!

<< Spellbinder emerges from a stepping disc, But NOW she appears in an "updated" form of her DARKCHILD persona. Additionally, she now MATCHES Badiane's physical dimension. She found a spell of POWER, combining it with her own link to the eldritch dimension of Limbo, the source of her basic mutant power. She has COMBINED the two, drawing on Limbo's energy...and now? >>

Your terror STOPS NOW, Badiyanu (pronouncing their adversarie's name in it's original language).

<< For some in the Six, this is their FIRST time seeing Spellbinder's dark aspect. For OTHERS, it's a haunting reminder of the LAST time they saw it...but there's something DIFFERENT this time. BEYOND the LOOK...it's CLEAR that she's NOT out to destroy anyone BUT Badiane! Still, several members of the Six wonder WHAT kind of cost this will have on MORGAN if she should survive. >>

LET GO OF HER!

<< The sorceress immediately advances upon Badiane and attacks her, BREAKING her grip on Alexia. A vicious power struggle consisting of magick AND physicality begins as the daughter of hecate confronts the devourer of dreams and innocence >>

:: a "POP" is heard, as a pair of floating colbalt blue eyes opens before Delilah, Black Widow and Bishop Harbinger's "astral projection!, and at the moment, the ONLY way those on the other side of the barrier can communicate with those on the ship. ::

Harbinger: BISHOP, BLACK WIDOW, GO!

:: Alexia, still contained in the dark bubble, slowly descends, approaching a close distance from the ship.::

Harbinger: Black Widow...a "fast ball special!" Use your strength and time this just right! THROW Bishop at the dark bubble! Bishop, the moment of truth for you is it hand. When you reach the bubble, FREE your daughter, and hold on to her at ALL COSTS.

Harbinger: Black Widow...follow right behind him, shephard him and Alexia on their descent downward...and be ready....

:: the tone in Harbinger's last words was an indication to Haleigh that there was likely about to be an INCREDIBLE amount of pain coming their way, but right now, as Spellbinder assaults Badiane, it gives them a BOOST of confidence to act NOW!::

 

[Harbinger]

:: Moments like this, where she had to PREVENT her friends from doing what they wanted to do, what ANY reasonable person wanted to do, did NOT give her pleasure. Moments like this were why she was sometimes perceived as cold, uncaring, heartless or worse! But as a precious few, like her brother, Ava, and now Maxim understood, there was ALWAYS a reason when she took this route. ::

:: Just when it seemed unbearable for them to watch Badiane destroying Alexia before their eyes, the chimes associated with Spellbinder's presence and power sounded off, but they sounded different, more like the ones they'd heard from Hecate before. Spellbinder emerges from a large stepping disc, now MATCHING Badiane's dimensions, and appearing in her "darkchild" aspect! But aside from the UPDATED "look", there was something different about HER. It was a sign of how far she'd come since the Inferno, and that she was NOW more centered, capable of commanding ALL aspects of her power. And what BETTER time to show that than NOW, against an adversary unlike any they'd faced before!::

:: Still, even as the shock of Spellbinder's appearance resonated among them all, they could not afford to rest, even now as Spellbinder broke Badiane's hold on Alexia!::

:: Harbinger communicates with Black Widow and Bishop, urging them to act on their part of this plan.::

Spellbinder has CHECKED Badiane, but it will not be for long...at what cost :: she knows what Morgan had to do to achieve this feat::

:: She sees Perle, who is understandibly shaken right now, and she turns, kneeling down to speak with the dream faerie.::

Perle, I know you're afraid. It's okay to be scared. Nothing is guaranteed for any of us. But whatever happens, we'll face it TOGETHER. You won't be left to face Badiane's wrath alone.

:: Harbinger places her hands on the faerie's shoulders.::

When Black Widow and Bishop reach and free Alexia, they will NO LONGER be cloaked. We can't help them due to this barrier, and WE can't break it. But there's something Badiane isn't factoring in. YOU, Perle.

When I tell you, I need you to use the flute she gave you once more, combine the power from its melody with that tiny piece of Spellbinder's soul that is now in you, and open a LIGHT CIRCLE (the earliest, and most basic form of a stepping disc that all three in the Dark Trinity manifested when their mutant power activated). Open it VERTICLE facing the barrier. You will not have the power to open a large portal to accmmodate ALL of us, but it will be JUST ENOUGH for FIREBIRD.

:: Keeping her hands on Perle's shoulder's the precog spoke calmly, and kept an even face::

The moment you act, you too will decloak...but DON'T worry! Ruby :: looking over, and gesturing for Cass to draw near:: Is giong to keep you safe. She has the power to do so.

Do you trust me?

:: The faerie nodded, and Harbinger smiled, nodding back with reassurance::

Good. Your help is going to make all the difference.

:: She looks over to Ruby as she stands back up.::

Ruby, be ready. When the moment is at hand to defend Perle from Badiane's wrath, her life will depend on YOU.

:: To Firebird::

Firebird, your power as a true fire elemental is what we'll need. When Perle opens the portal, get through it to the other side of the barrier, go for Bishop, Black Widow and Alexia. They'll NEED you.

:: She turns and places a hand on Rampage's arm::

Stay where you are, Rampage.

:: Already knowing what he wanted to do.::

I'll need you very soon, and if you act in haste now, you will throw the DELICATE timeline that we are currently BENEFITING from completely out of balance.

:: It was like old times, Alison was the ULTIMATE asset in a battle where the best strategy was to think three steps ahead of the enemy. BUT knowing what was coming, and being able to handle the moment at hand were two totally different things. Of them all, Persephone, Rampage, and Prophet were the ones BEST suited to operate under her guidance, trusting her without second thought or guessing and ACTING, knowing that there was a reason she would task them with something so specific.

:: She while she did not "assign" them with anything YET, she noticeably kept the three of them near her. They could do nothing else at the moment as Spellbinder fought BITTERLY with Badiane. Harbinger's perception of magick made this battle resonate with her on a personal level. As magnificent and terrifying as Spellbinder was, currently having the outer space witch on the ropes. THAT was about to change shortly. Badiane's defeat would NOT come while she was in this form, and THIS is why they all had a role to play, until MorningStar's turn. ::

Perle....Firebird....move into position, Ruby, keep your eyes open. Black Widow and Bishop are going to begin their descent soon.

:: She places a hand on Persephone's arm, quietly urging the goddess to step up right beside her. Ava knew she was going to be needed for something::

 

[MorningStar]

On the ship

Delilah desperately needed to go to her daughter, but continued to be restrained by Bishop.

“She’s going to be allright. You have to trust Harbinger, trust Spellbinder. Wait for the right time. You have to pull yourself together. Focus! Focus on what you are about to do.”

Delilah took several deep breaths. And then it occurred to her, temporarily giving her another focus: where was Spellbinder?

Delilah searched the skies, and then, she found her – no, she found Darkchilde! Emerging from a stepping disc, and matching height with Badiane!

She stopped her struggling and Bishop let go of her. Delilah grabbed for Sharon –

“Morgan…she can’t…she musn’t!”

Remembering the Inferno…as well as Spellbinder’s alternates. It was not a good thing for Morgan to be tapping into her power from Limbo. What if it took her over again? What if she couldn’t come back, when Delilah wouldn’t be there to PULL her back from it?

But as Delilah watched, she noticed something different about THIS Darkchilde: different from Morgan during the Inferno, different from the Darkchilde they had met in Limbo. She was…centered. In control. When it mattered most, Morgan had mastered her powers. For her.

And then it was time for Bishop and Black Widow. Delilah gritted her teeth, and held fast, trusting her lover and her teammate and waiting for her turn to unleash hell on Badiane.

 

[Bishop]

On the ship

They all were stunned by Spellbinder’s sudden reappearance, and giant stature.

“Fe Fi Fo Fum…”

He saw no issue with Spellbinder’s new appearance: for this mission, he wanted her as badass as Morgan could be, consequences be damned. He didn’t really care if she turned into a demon and bit the heads off of live chickens for the rest of her life, as long they saved Alexia.

And her attack worked – Badiane’s grip on Alexia was broken. At the same time, a pair of blue eyes appeared in front of where they stood on the ship, which was downright unsettling.

BISHOP, BLACK WIDOW, GO! Black Widow...a "fast ball special!" Use your strength and time this just right! THROW Bishop at the dark bubble! Bishop, the moment of truth for you is it hand. When you reach the bubble, FREE your daughter, and hold on to her at ALL COSTS.

Bishop turned his head towards Haleigh, and cocked an eyebrow.

“Try not to enjoy this too much, Red.”

True to Harbinger’s instruction, Black Widow picked him up and THREW him towards Alexia. Bishop curled into a ball, hurtling through the air until he was near to the bubble, where he spread himself out wide and wrapped Alexia into his arms, cradling her head against his chest with one hand and holding on to her waist with the other. He tried as best as he could to shield Alexia’s body with his own, not knowing where the next attack would be coming from, and braced for impact with the ground.

“It’s alright, I’ve got you.”

Alexia: “Are you really my daddy?”

“Yes, baby girl, I am. I will always come to save you, no matter what.”

Alexia: "It hurts..."

"Shh...it will be all better soon, I promise."

Alexia: "Is the Silver Swan here? She's my friend, you know."

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas took his place, focused on the plan and the role he needed to play. But when Badiane showed up and was hurting the BABY?!

Nicolas roared, leaping forward to make a basic physical attack ob Badiane. Even with everything going on, he was still the strongest member of the Six, physically powerful enough to matter even when magic was involved. But the beast was ready, and he was enveloped, then repelled by Dark Energy, the impact tossing him towards the wall, out of control.

A quick teleport and he was ready for Round Two, this time with the axe, when Harbinger ordered them to cease and desist for now, to wait. Before he could stop himself, he protested just with one word.

Ali?!

Habinger: I KNOW it's BAD...STAND FAST! :: She replies with force:: Would you deplete yourselves in an effort that will lead to NOTHING?!

Nicolas stood down, seething and growing n power as his body incorporated the psionic gift Alison gave him, multiplying it by his own might and anger. Runes could be seen appearing on his exposed skin even as Spellbinder made her appearance.

She was beautiful. And DEADLY. Nicolas and Morgan had long become more accustomed to each other's darker selves but he could sense the concern of the others. And for good reason. Morgan was playing close to the edge and bringing her back could turn out to be more difficult than putting this goth-bitch back into her bottle.

:: She turns and places a hand on Rampage's arm::

Stay where you are, Rampage.

:: Already knowing what he wanted to do.::

I'll need you very soon, and if you act in haste now, you will throw the DELICATE timeline that we are currently BENEFITING from completely out of balance.

:: It was like old times, Alison was the ULTIMATE asset in a battle where the best strategy was to think three steps ahead of the enemy. BUT knowing what was coming, and being able to handle the moment at hand were two totally different things. Of them all, Persephone, Rampage, and Prophet were the ones BEST suited to operate under her guidance, trusting her without second thought or guessing and ACTING, knowing that there was a reason she would task them with something so specific.

He nodded wordlessly. No words were required. They had come to this place over time and she knew he trusted her implicitly. So he waited, a weapon of mass destruction coiled like a tense spring, waiting for his turn to strike. Even in his altered state he was focused and ready.

 

[Prophet]

:: Cameron wanted to be on that ship with Delilah. He was having a hard time letting go. For months he had stood in the middle, between her and the others, trying everything he could think of to soften The Six's resolve and to bring Delilah back to life. ::

"I was so close...she was turning a corner..."

:: There was an overwhelming feeling of sadness in the air, and as an empath, Prophet was not only experiencing his own mixed feelings, but of those around him as well. Mostly, he just felt helpless. He had protected Delilah for so long, and now, when push came to shove, he was out of his league. He didn't have the power to fix this, and he felt like he had broken his promise to Morningstar. ::

<< FLASH - Aerie - Interview Suite >>

Delilah: "GIVE ME BACK M DAUGHTER! YOU'RE DEAD TO ME, YOU HEAR ME?! GIVE HER BACK TO ME! GIVE HER BACK!

Her words resounded, and ECHOED. BOOMED down the hall as Cameron drug her away. As they rounded what seemed like many corners, Prophet stopped.

Cameron: "Shh...Dee...Calm down. Shh...Come on now..."

He whispered softly to her as her incredible anger had now surged into a WAVE of sorrow. She broke down in his arms, crying and sobbing with every word as Cameron embraced her tightly, slowly sliding down the wall with her. Soon the two were on the floor, with Cameron essentially cradling the remnants of a broken woman.

"Breathe babe...just breathe with me okay? You don't have to talk. Just in...and out.. In and out, Delilah..."

He kissed the top of her head and held her tight. He could have calmed her emotions, He could have let this subside with his power, but he knew the price of not feeling the totality of your feelings, and as much as it HURT him to see her like this...she needed to feel all of it. Cameron just wasn't sure how much more she could take.

:: Prophet thought of that moment often, more than he wanted to. He watched a person that was so much goddamn better of a person than he was completely fall apart in front of him. He knew in that moment, after everything she had done for him, he had a duty to make things right, to "fix" her. ::

<< FLASH >>

The Parthenon - Cameron's Penthouse

:: Cameron look at Morgan as she began to dissappear ::

Cameron: "I love..you go. But you HEAL. and THEN...you COME BACK. You hear me? You come BACK!"

:: Morgan's eyes told no stories. ::

Morgan: "There's no greater power...than the of...Goodbye."

:: And with that, Spellbinder teleports AWAY. She does NOT return to Minerva's Mansion OR Melrose Place. ::

:: He stayed with Delilah, holding her and caressing her hair as she slowly and painstakingly began to calm down. ::

Delilah:"Cameron...why are you still here...with me? I don't...I don't know if I can keep doing this...it hurts....it hurts so much."

:: Cameron gave her a half smile, and tucked a few stray strands of hair away from her face. ::

"Im here because you need me. And i'll be here as long as you need me."

:: He looked at the look of pure deperation and pain in her face and eyes. ::

"Scratch that. I'm here and I'm not going to leave your side until I decide it's time."

:: She felt so fragile in his arms, and all the light about her seemed to be...GONE. It was harrowing to see and experience and still, Cameron's resolve and demeanor remained strong. ::

Delilah: "I wish they had just let me die..."

"Now that's foolish talk..and I won't hear any more of it...okay?"

:: The images flushed through him as he watched his sister and Morgan prepare to do battle with Badiane, once again stepping in where he felt short. He wasn't angry with them, so much as deeply anguished over the situation at hand. But he had to take a back seat, and at the very least he felt relieved that Alison and Morgan were coming from a place of love, not just duty. They weren't doing this because it was the job of The Six to save the world, they were doing this FOR Delilah. ::

<< FLASH! >>

He unwraveled himself from her body as he rose to the floor, and slowly but surely he helped her rise to her feet. All the while this was going on, Cameron had compelled his staff to prepare quarters for Delilah, instructing that her room be left to only the BASIC of necessities. No sharp edges, no hairbrushes, nothing that could in any way allow Delilah to bring harm to herself. As much as he loved and trusted her, he was not about to take ANY chances this time. She attempted to speak, but he put his hand over her mouth gently.

"No more, Delilah...just silence. Just calm your thoughts...ease your mind and breathe. You're exhausted.. and you need rest. You've been through a gauntlet tonight, my dear. And for now, it's over.. come on let's get you cleaned up okay?"

Delilah didn't really have any human response to his question as he led her to his master bathroom and turned on the faucet to the large antique porcelain bathtub. He walked over, before taking a moment, helping Delilah to undress and get into the tub. As she sat there with her knees pressed to her chest, Cameron began to wash her, trying to help her "scrub away the day." He used a calming lavender scented body wash that would help to relax her mind, which he had to admit, he was a little worried about. She said nothing, only seeming to look off into the distance into "wonderland". After her bath, he brushed her hair for her and helped her slip into one of the plush and luxurious white cotton Parthenon Hotel robes, before leading her to one of his guest bedrooms, turned down the sheet and helped her crawled into bed, effectively tucking her in. As he sat on the bed looking over her, he searched for the right words to say. Nothing seemed appropriate at this moment.

"Delilah..."

[looking at her warmly]

"You are one of my best friends...probably my closest confidant. You always tell me when i'm being stupid, or egotistical, or just out of my mind. And you do it in a way that is so..blunt yet gentle.. eloquent yet harsh. I want to be able to do that for you now, but.. I just.. I don't have that kind of finesse I guess.. But I do know this. If you left..if you HAD died and stayed dead? I would have been heartbroken..I would have lost a "sister". I know that things seem bad right now, but..I need you to hold on Delilah. I need you to WANT to live...if not for yourself, or me...but for Alexia. I know i'm taking a risk at even mentioning her name to you right now, but that baby girl is going to need you, and you are going to need that baby girl..and for that matter..I need you. I need you here, Delilah. And I need you to try for me, okay? It's not going to be easy..it's actually going to suck. But I need you to do this. And i'lll be with you...every step of the way. I promise, Dee...I won't leave you..."

He placed his hand over hers and he rubbed it gently.

"And that...my dear, is FAR more than enough for one day. Just know that I love you. And sleep on it..."

He stood from the bed, bent down and kissed her forehead before leaving her guest room and LOCKING the door behind him..

Harbinger: "Get ready...SHE'S COMING!"

:: Prophet was JOLTED back into reality from memory lane upon hearing the stern and confident tone of his sister. ::

:: He IMMEDIATELY felt the cut of Badiane's supply course through the vast and empty space around them. ::

"Whoah......"

:: Instinctively he cast out his crackling red psionic energy signature as it began to emanate all around the dream coffins of the children as he began to connect with ALL of them. While children were simpler creatures, they came with FAR stronger, unadulterated energy, something that children were never in short supply of. A swell of energy rose up through Cameron's body as he simultaneously and quickly began to assess and adjust to the control that he was exerting. He began to experience parts of their dreams and their consciousness, which both bolstered his own strength, but threatened to throw him off course. He firmed his mind as he began to slowly separate his own psyche from theirs. He had just found the right amount of balance when... ::

Firebird: "Harbinger, WATCH OUT!"

:: Prophet opened his eyes and watched in horror as a brutal assault of flaming energy came BARRELING towards Alison at a rapid pace as Firebird sprung into action carrying Alison out of harm's way as Ava beautifully destroyed the display of power, almost like a calling card that despite how powerful Badiane thought herself to be (and actually WAS), The Six would not be taken out so easily. ::

:: And that's when shit truly got crazy. ::

:: Badiane made herself known as she appeared before the group as a hulking, towering being of power, juxtaposed behind the swirling black dream hole, looking as if she could destroy them all with a fight. ::

Badiane: "I have the KEY..the MAIN COURSE right here in my hand."

:: his heart sank. ::

"Alexia!"

:: She was going to kill Alexia right in front of them. His eyes met the luminescent eyes of the little girl that seemed to represent so many different things to The Six, things she wasn't even aware of. This wasn't fair to her. ::

Harbinger: "Power without WILL and..HEART to drive it, OR creativity to achieve the desired outcome in MEANINGLESS. Preying on the WEAK and innocent doesn't make you POWERFUL. We WON'T STOP coming for you until we have Alexia, and ALL these children FREE."

:: THIS was the sister he loved and thought fondly of. This was the woman who had caused him to change his course in life. Strong, regal and powerful in the face of adversity, with the still confidence of a season warrior. This was her in her best form. ::

:: Badiane began to enact her plan as the energy of the black hole began to swarm Alexia, causing her to recoil in pain and horror. Everybody was mortified, everybody was freaking out and Cameron could feel it. He needed to do something. ::

"But the barrier...I can't get through...or can I?"

:: He wouldn't let Delilah watch her daughter die in front of her, not on his watch. Using the bolstered psychic energy he was experiencing due to his link with the children, he cast his mind out, or more accurately, his astral form. Not in the area around him, but into Alexia's mind directly. She was still acting the same, still showing pain, still crying out for help, but in her mind, Cameron reached her. ::

"Alexia...honey come out, I promise it's safe. I'm Cameron...I'm your godfather. Are you here? Let me see you, sweetie."

:: Her mind was dark and swirling, in line with the pain that she was experiencing. He felt chaotic as if he were moving through a forest at peak speeds, winds brushing past his face. Before long, a shimmering orb appeared brightly in front of him before the form of Alexia manifested. This was her psyche. Her face was red and puffy with tears, her hair caked to her face with sweat. She looked up at him, with the same eye as Delilah. ::

Alexia: "What's...what's happening?"

:: Cameron enveloped her in his arms and picked her up, holding her tightly. As she held on to him, he began to flood her psyche with times that Delilah and himself had shared. Laughing and dancing, all the good memories that would prove to her that he was friend and not foe. ::

Alexia: "Am..am I still alive? I feel weird.."

"You're a smart kid, you know that? And sometimes people don't like smart kids. But I promise you, you're mommy.."

:: Alexia chimed in. ::

"And daddy. My dad is here...He's holding me."

:: Cameron smiled. Though Alexia was consciously aware of the situation, as was Cameron as he watched with mind's eye the arrival of Spellbinder looking decidedly like she did when she tried to destroy the world. Cameron was occupying Alexia's psyche, allowing her to somehow psychically compartmentalize what was happening to her, not alerting Badiane to what he was doing, and keeping up appearances. Morgan ignited her attack after locking onto Badiane's power source. The display was brilliant, and though at first, Cameron was nervous that Morgan had tapped into the power of Darkchilde to save Alexia and wouldn't be able to come back this time, something about her was different, and decidedly "lighter". She didn't seem lost...she seemed determined. ::

"That's right. Alexia. We are fixing this whole mess I promise, so for now, I need you to focus on me, and let that other stuff go. Just focus on my voice and keep yourself here with me. Can you do that?"

Alexia: "I can try.."

"Good..now, why don't you tell me a story?"

:: Prophet was juggling multiple balls in the air. He began to simultaneously keep Alexia occupied, maintain the mental and psychic states of the children in the dream coffins and keep an eye on the battle with his mind's eye. He began to worry that because Morgan had locked on to Badiane's power, she might may a desperate attempt to get a hold of the children and HIM as he was now linked to them, and he was giving off a HELL of a lot of psionic energy. Right now, all he could do was what he was doing, and that had to be enough. If he faltered, if he disconnected in any way from these children or Alexia, it could spell disaster for the team. He wasn't a praying man, but he found himself asking SOMEBODY upstairs to see them through this. ::