Once more, with feeling

[Seer]

<< Several days have passed since the Six have returned to their proper timeline, MAINSTREAM. They succeeded in finding and rescuing Alison Marble bka Harbinger and Ava Cassadine bka Persephone...but now without extreme hardship and lessons learned.>>

<< After stopping off at Aerie, the Six returned to Minerva's Mansion where Ava and Alison would be cared for during their recouperation. MONTHS had passed since they first LEFT to find their missing comrades, due to the way Limbo violates the laws of time and space and so while gone, the rest of the world seemed to move on...believing that the Six had gone into hiding or were mostly dead.>>

<< several things had changed in their absence however, the effects of which were soon to be felt and some of those changes were the direct result of encounters from their cross time caper...namely in the name of MALICE and ENCHANTRA.>>

<< For now though, the team and their allies are within the sprawling, regal estate of Minverva where they have had time to debrief Karen and Pandora about what happened, what they've seen while Karen and Pandora had the chance to inform THEM about a recent situation which required Karen, Pandora and the soldiers now employed by Alison (once employed by Barbara Minerva) to repell a small scale invasion by a group of earthen formed "men" who were seeking the sceptre of Isis, one of many mysterious artifacts contained in the technologically advanced underground vault beneath the mansion.>>

<< though the invasion itself was unexpected, the women and the soldiers successfully repelled them and the reason them trying to obtain THIS of all items was not clear. but for now, the main goal was for Alison and Ava to be cared for as they recovered from their brutal trauma. everyone had the chance to finally exhale, settle and recover. Karen and Haleigh would soon have a talk, as would Morgan and Nicolas, Mike and Karen...generally speaking, the team would finally address some individual and group issues between them. >>

<< oh and there was ONE MORE thing...a surprise hitcher who jumped into Morgan's stepping disc before it closed, meaning they would soon find themselves with another unexpected guest.>>


<< and so we watch.>>

 

[Spellbinder]

Minvera's mansion

<< Spellbinder and her mother are in the infimary, where Ava and Alison are both laying in medical beds with vital stats monitors and other machinery assigned to each of them. Medical staff are on hand, with Karen being the one in charge. it has been a very rough two days as Karen and the staff have attempted to detox, remove various implants and other chemicals and Morgan casting a variety of healing spells, at the end of it all, it will depend on Alison and Ava to finally come around.>>

<< the room is dimly lit, quiet and on the cool side. Karen sits on beside Alison while Morgan sits beside Ava...and after a bit of silence, Morgan looks at her mother.>>

Mom....they havent awakened yet. We've done everything we know to do...my magick, your medical training...and still they don't awaken.

<< looking up at a clock.>>

I dont know...i feel so..worried...so full of GUILT. it was MY power...the stepping discs that they fell through. It took the Six MONTHS thanks to Limbo's time to find them...if it hadnt been for the help of the alternate six in the last timeline...we MIGHT not have succeeded! as it is NOW...look at them! they've been brutalized so much!

<< Morgan was clearly upset ...at herself, and at everything in general.>>

HUMANS did this you know. the "normal" ones...the ones who think they are so m uch BETTER than mutants, witches or metahumans. the alternate timeline, it was just like what Alison saw for US...and it reminds me why i really DONT CARE what happens to humans on this planet anymore. I'm GLAD we dont have to risk our lives to save people who think we are mishaps.

<< But what Morgan failed to remember was that without the Six's involvement, things could and WOULD get worse.>>

 

[Shadow Weaver]

<< Karen now had longer hair, it was still elegantly styled but it was an indication of how much time had passed since the last adventure began till now. she and Pandora had forged their own friendship in those months and had joined together to defend the mansion against a suprise invasion. Barbara herself wouldve been proud of Pandora at this point...as would Alison.>>

<< Karen had also kept in contact with Ororo during that time, and knew what had been happening with the team as they searched for alison and ava so she did not worry AS much.>>

Morgan, honey....you didnt PLAN to make them fall into a disc. You were under UNDUE stress. You were struggling to keep yourself form lashing out during that ill fated dinner on Aerie. That was bad night for ALL of us. >>

Accidents WILL happen, but the important thing is that you helped get them BACK.

<< Karen paused for a moment.>>

It took me a while to forgive MYSELF for my poor behavior...attacking Haleigh yet again. i suppose I should just admit that my problem with her is her ability to just BE...whether its good OR bad. I come from a time where you were supposed to put your best foot forward...and Haleigh does not HIDE her strengths OR her faults. I was afraid that she would..."rub off on YOU", as if you were some mindless sponge just waiting to be programmed.

<< looking at Alison, the doctor once again observes the seer's new BALD look...>>

It was HALEIGH that lead the group this time, just as she did when Ororo directed them to help get YOU back. If i can trust her in times like THAT...then I should be able to trust her in OTHER situations as well.

<< it was amazing to see the doctor admit to such a thing, but having months to reflect will allow a person to find the strength to choose a new path.>>

as for Ava and Alison...they will be fine. They've been detoxed, and their bodies have been freed of any implants from the surgeries they endured. your spells and mine have removed all scars, restored their bodies to normal function and removed most traces...but their HAIR...that will be a source of great discomfort for BOTH of them when they see what has happend to their hair.

<< she looks at Morgan.>>

I'm so glad you're all back...all of you.

 

[Spellbinder]

<< Morgan nodded slowly as her mother spoke.>>

I'm glad you and Pandora are okay. When Ororo told us about that attack on the mansion, i was very worried, but i see that you and Pandora make a pretty good team. Did you ever imagine that you'd come to a point in your life where you were a full time witch with a 30-something year old beau? and NOT a doctor...at least not one "recognized" by the state of new york? or that i would become....NON EXISTENT in the world of fashion?

<< she and her mother laughed softly....as a sign of relaxed reflection and gratefullness to how far they've come through it all. >>

You know...there was so much mess that night...Nicolas, he shocked me...the way he talked to Alison. It was almost like i didnt know who he was anymore. The bitterness between you and Haleigh, it was hard to watch, considering that she and I had just reached an understanding earlier that day...but something else...seeing Delilah, her ALTERNATE self in the last timeline. She was so HURT because my alternate and Alison's alternate had cast her out of the Six over BISHOP!

Delilah's my best friend friend...and apparently in that timeline, BISHOP, a MAN came between our friendship! she joined MYSTECH and turned against her friends, her family her own kind, but it wasnt ALL her fault. She was HURT and they took advantage of that by placing a neuro compliance collar on her. We succeeded in FREEING her, but i just remember how she spoke to me with such HATRED. I felt like I was the one who had cast her out.

<< looking down at Ava, Morgan noticed her new bald state as well.>>

i of all people should know about crosstime alternates, but seeing our alternates in that timeline...knowing what they had endured, that THAT could have been what WE went through if things had only gone SLIGHTLY different..its left me in a DEEP state of thought.

<< slowly exhaling as she rubs Ava's hand.>>

I dont want us to go through what THEY did. I wish THEY hadnt had to go through it. There's some issues that some of US need to address...BEFORE its too late i think.

<< Morgan had not yet heard about Nicolas and Haleigh during their stop in the MoE timeline. at THIS moment, she had it in her mind to have a talk with Nicolas, in order for her to trust him, he had to EXPLAIN himself for his actions toward Alison...and she WANTED to work things out with him.>>

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas and Mike dressed quietly as they prepared to go to Minerva's mansion. All of them had to lick their wounds and do some soul searching. Both men had people to speak with, and things to do, and there was no time like the present.

As the men arrived, they each went to the medical bay to see after Ava and Alison. Still no change...YET. Nic and Mike had been checking for quite some time on their progress, and Nicolas seemed confident that this situation was temporary at best. He relayed this opinion to Mike, who was not totally convined but was at least placated.

As Nicolas looked at the charts, checking for anything that might be offered to assist Karen, he memorized their contents and moved forward to the pair of withces at the end of the room. He kissed Karen lightly on the cheek and smiled warmly.

Hey Ma, I hear that you and Pandora are a regular two-woman army. We could have toured the wonders of Limbo a while longer, yes? I am glad to be back. You are a sight for sore eyes.

Nicolas moved smoothly to Morgan, offering a kiss on the cheek. he knew that there was much to discuss, and he figured now was as good a time as any. Besides, he knew that Mike had something big to tell Karen and they would need some privacy.

Morgan...can we talk somewhere private? There is much that needs to be discussed...

 

[Arsenal]

Mike arrived at the mansion, taking note of its defenses as he moved forward. The recent invasion news had bothered him to no end, especailly since he was quite protective of Karen. He moved to Morgan as Nicolas greeted Karen, hugging her warmly as he spoke to her.

Morgan, pretty as ever...I am praying for them BOTH. I believe that they are both too tough to let this beat them. Look, I want to thank you for your help out there against the Sentinels. Your concern was appreciated.

Mike walked over to Karen and planted a soft kiss on her forehead, then looked into her eyes and sighed. This was going to be difficult for him, and he hoped that the Doctor would understand.

Doc, I need to talk to you a moment...

 

[Persephone]

:: The lights were dimmed in the infirmery, casting only the softest rays of light onto Ava as she laid sleeping on the medical bed. Although healed, her [and Alison's] body was still extremely thin, almost anorexic-like, due to months of malnutrition. And probably worst of all [look wise], she was still bald. Tubes and monitors were strapped and injected into various parts of her body...almost identical to what the doctors in the alternate timeline did to 'prep' her for their experiments. It was agonizing to even think of someone going through such brutality, let alone have to wake up and deal with the aftermath.... ::

:: As Morgan and Karen conversed, their voices seemed to softly fade into her mind, slowly pulling Ava out of her sleep. The soft touch of Morgan's hand on hers caused Ava to move her hand just slightly; enough to indicate that she was in fact coming to. Ava's dry lips parted enough for her to draw in a breath. Moving her head a bit, her eyes opened enough to catch the soft hue of the lights illuminating the room. Closing them once again, even the dim light burned her sensitive retinas. Rolling her head a bit more, Ava attempted to open her eyes once again, this time a bit more than before. Everything was blurred....like it had been so many times before. Trying to blink away her grogginess, suddenly the all too familiar sound of beeping caught Ava's ear. Medical monitors......Her breath caught in her throat as her sight cleared enough to see a man in a white coat walk by the foot of her bed. Ava's stomach turned and her heart rate began to pick up; the heart monitor beeping more quickly. With terrified eyes, her breathing escalated to that of an all out anxiety attack. Pulling at her forearms, she began to rip away the patches and IV's that covered them in a blazing panic....'back peddling' with her feet she pushed her body backwards up to the head of the medical bed and against the wall [where the top of the bed was placed at]. With her knees tucked closed to her, Ava kept her body hugged close to the wall, terrified. At this point she didn't even realize that Karen, Morgan, Mike, and most importantly Nicolas were in the room. In such a blind panic, Ava simply reacted as any HUMAN would after being tortured, beatened, and mentally toyed with for months. ::

:: Tears fell from her shut eyes as she inhaled shakey labored breaths. It was a pretty heartwrenching sight to behold....the once gorgeous and powerful goddess reduced to huddling in a corner like a scared child. Normally she wouldn't show such weakness....but 'normal' had left the moment Ava and Alison fell into the stepping disc...::

 

[Rampage]

As Nicolas spoke to Morgan, he winced as he felt what was happening before he actually saw it. He turned as he was about to walk out with Morgan and approached the bed quickly as Ava became an absolute mess of movement, pulling out the wires and drawing up into a ball, a pitiful sight for the fetching goddess.

Oh God, take off the lab coats people. No more of those while dealing with them. Ava, hon. This is Nicolas. We were able to get you out of there. We went through hell and back, but we managed to get to you. Try to relax, You have been through a lot.

Nicolas voice was soothing and deep, and he reflexively tried to mentally calm her somewhat, very gently. His eyes betrayed genuine concern as he tried to gently reassure the battered immortal...

 

[Persephone]

"GET AWAY FROM ME!"

:: Screaming at Nicolas, Ava didn't realize it was HER Nicolas and not the hound that had attacked and captured her and Alison in the alternate timeline. Pushing herself closer to the wall trying to move further away from Nicolas, the telepath began to mentally calm her, which seemed to immediately work almost like a sedative. ::

"Don't touch me....get away......get away from me..."

:: Ava's voice cracked. ::

"Just leave me alone."

:: Tears fell from Ava's eyes as she stared blankly across the room, not realizing that Alison was in the bed behind her. Not really realizing much of anything at this point. She was defeated and tired, and it showed. With such a traumatic experience, and enduring it for over four months, for Ava AND Alison to not be in a catatonic state was proof enough that they were extremely strong in body and mind. But even the strongest break eventually. ::

 

[Rampage]

Av a's reaction to him hit like aton of bricks. A tear fell as he slowly backed away. Hands up.

Ava, I am SO sorry about what happened there. I-

He quieted abruptly as she asked to be left alone. He turned to Karen and Morgan, his face a mask of emotion as the young mutant was clearly heartbroken. As he spoke, Ava would feel herself calmer and more than a bit sleepy.

I will calm her for now, but I fear that this antiseptic environment in the bay will be..too much like her incarceration. In addition, I have underestimated the negative impact of my own presence. I will take my leave now.

Nicolas tuned to walk out of the Med Bay.

 

[Arsenal]

Mike stepped forward as the goddess tore away her tubing and pulled into a ball. His voice was calm and comforting.

It's OK, Ava. This is Mike. I am here to help you. You are safe now. Nicolas will not hurt you, NO ONE will I promise. You are home in your own time now.

Mike grabbed a rag and wet it, wiping her face in dabs as he helped her back down onto the bed, squeezing her hand befor he stepped back as she slipped deeper into a calmed state.

Just relax, sweetheart. You will be right as rain in no time. Take it slow. We are all here to help you.

 

[Spellbinder]

infirmary hallway

<< as mother and daughter talked quietly and sat with Ava and Alison, Nicolas and Mike arrived. Morgan greeted Nicolas with a kiss of her own. Glad to see him during a time where there was no life threatening violence around them. >>

Hello Nicolas, it's good to see you.

<< Mike hugged her and complimented.>>

You're not too bad yourself handsome.

<< she kissed him on the cheek lightly as she greeted him. Nicolas asked if Morgan could join him for a chat. Morgan looked at her mother who nodded that it was fine since the medical staff could monitor the two women in their absence. >>

<< before much else could occurr, Ava awoke with a terrible start and panic. Morgan flinched because it happened SO FAST. it was plain to see how ingrained the reflex of fear of more torture had been placed in her...it broke Morgan's heart. As Nicolas did his best to calm her, Morgan motioned for the medical support staff to keep back.>>

Can you please prepare one of the suites in the mansion? We should move them to a more intimate setting. Clearly the infimary will not be the best place. we can arrange for equipment to be concealed in the suite so it looks less antiseptic.

<< a quick solution to ONE part of the problem. but clearly there was much MUCH more. Ava's reaction to Nicolas, it went BEYOND her own dislike of THEIR Nicolas, she believed she was being confronted with the HOUND from the last timeline.>>

She thinks YOU'RE the hound...she can't distinguish right now...she's still not completely herself...

<< as Ava was finally helped back to bed, Morgan stood...slowly exhaling. Nicolas was trying to hide how hurt HE was and Morgan could FEEL it, and SEE the pain hidden behind his face as he decided to leave.>>

Mike...can you please stay with my mother? I'll be right back.

<< Morgan follows quickly after Nicolas into the hallway.>>

Nicolas, honey...WAIT.

<< her high heels can be heard as she catches up to him and puts a hand on his back.>>

You know that we can expect more of that...from ava AND alison. My mom suspects they will need intense psycho therapy for MONTHS to come. Ava...she saw your face and thought you were the HOUND. after being trapped their for months...the damage that has been done...

<< Morgan's tone is sad.>>

its a wonder that they BOTH arent catatonic. but we have to stay together...for better or for worse. we have to be there for THEM and for each other!

 

[Firebird]

With the remaining surviving members of the Six teleported to Black Widow's safe house in Canada and the destruction of Master Mold, the world should have seemed like a better place. But even for one fire elemental good-byes were extremely difficult, especially between sisters. Morgan wasn't her timeline sister but it certainly felt like it.

As the mainstream team prepared to leave, Blaze's green eyes filled with tears. Her heart ached for her big sister who she idolized and adored. Pulling her bottom lip into her mouth to nibble as she subconsciously blinked her tears away as she stood next to her timeline Haleigh and Silver Swan. Stepping forward, her heart clutched inside her throat watching as one by one the Six disappeared through Morgan's stepping disk.

A soft wind blew as the translucent portal remained opened. Blaze turned to look at the other two women to pull them into a tight hug. "You girls know I always follow my heart. Only this time my heart is on another plane of existence." Pulling back, Blaze turned her attention to the stepping disk. Without a second thought, Blaze sprinted towards the portal to jump inside of it.

It was like riding a wild roller coaster with her body hurled forward like a color spectrum. Blaze was transported to the mainstream timeline where each of the teammates were separated in groups. Morgan and Nicolas would have a much needed discussion along with Mike and Karen. Alison and Ava were still gripped with the psychological tragedy of their unpleasant journey through another timeline.

A stepping disk would hover above the air at Aerie. A few wind currents circulated as a figure was tossed through. Firebird was hurled down onto her rear as she slammed onto the ground with a groan of protest, "I really hate those things." Stomping her spiked stiletto boot onto the ground to force herself to stand. Dusting off her uniform as her eyes looked around. A grin fell across her lips, "I made it!" Tugging the side of her shortly-clad skirt down to iron out the wrinkles she went in search of a familiar face.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Minerva's mansion- Infimary

<< Karen noted the arrival of Nicolas and Mike, offering a little smile as the young men drew near. they each greeted her. Nicolas with the warm regard of a son and Mike with his thoughtfull, gentle touch she held his hand as he kissed her gently on the forehead. Nicolas spoke about her and Pandora's battle with the earthen army.>>

Yes, it was quite a surprise, but i think Pandora and I both appreciated the chance to have SOMETHING to do. It was quiet for a long while. Ororo kept us informed of your status and well being so we knew not to worry...TOO much. Still, we havent figured out just WHY those creatures were after the Sceptre of Isis of all things. Apparently Barbara had discovered and claimed the artifact back in the ...1950s during an archeological expedition in Egypt.

<< Barbara was immortal, she had indicated she lived at least two life times during her appearence inthe MoE timeline and her appearence HERE in the Six's timeline would suggest at least ONE...just WHEN she was originally born was anyone's guess but inspite of her now being reborn as an Amazon, this mansion was still at testimony to Barbara's fearless adventures , intelligence and skill through the many years. Alison and Pandora treated the place like a museum as much as they did their home.>>

<< Karen hoped that Mike would remember that despite her age, Karen was plenty capable of taking care of herself. She actually ENJOYED having a chance to use her magick more and more.>>

<< as Mike asked to have a world with her, Ava abruptly awakened and reacted very badly as the doctor expected she would. Karen couldnt reach Ava before Mike did, and as he and Nicolas calmed her down, Karen had been prepared to sedate Ava with a mild sleeping spell.>>

Yes, perhaps a change of scenery would be more helpfull...

<< the staff prepared a suite in another part of the mansion and would soon be ready to transport the two women.>>

<< Nicolas attempted to hide the hurt he felt at Ava's strong reaction toward him. it was clear that it went beyond her OWN previous dislike of him and since Karen had not seen what happened in the timelines the six experienced, she only could go by the report given by Haleigh and the others..>>

<< Mike and Karen were now alone as the staff quietly but quickly did their job.>>

....great work Mike. I've got my work cut out for me. I won't be leaving Minerva's Mansion anytime soon and Morgan has informed me that she's staying with me to help as well.

Now then, while the staff prepares to move Ava and Alison to a more intimate and comfortable setting...what did you want to talk to me about?

<< they were standing a few feet away from Ava and Alison at this point.>>

 

[Seer]

onward

<< sudden surprises, both here and elsewhere make for delicate moments and uncertain futures.>>

<< Ava's first moments of awareness in her own time are about what Karen expected them to be, but it makes it no easier for Nicolas, whom she reacted very badly to. Karen herself may be the next to have a bad reaction as Mike prepares to speak with his "Good Doctor.">>

<< Meanwhile, across the waters to the east...in an "uncharted" part of the ocean, the massive, "mythical" Isle of Aerie, the NEW home of the Six, given them by the goddesses Athena, Hecate and Demeter as a "thanks" for their bravery in the battle against the Isle's creator, Circe...a new and unexpected arrival h as come.>>

<< Firebird, a cross time alternate of Blaze Fielding, whom joined forces with the mainstream Six in the last timeline, has arrived after making a MAD descision to jump into Morgan's stepping disc before it closed. Firebird's appearence struck a chord with many among the mainstreams, including Morgan, Nicolas, Delilah and Haleigh [who did an excellent job of concealing her own reaction]. Firebird herself was happy to see her sister...be it a cross time alternate or not...and in the end, despite her world now being able to recover from the threat of the Sentinels and Master Mold and the END of the human/mutant war..the fire elemental, who was more glamorous and in control of her powers than mainstream Blaze, could not bear to lose her sister AGAIN and so...in one mad, impulsive moment, she too her life into her hands and jumped into the disc, and came tumbling down and out onto AERIE in mainstream.>>

<< she'd JUST missed Mike and Nicolas, but Delilah and Haleigh were still on Aerie and had yet to join the others at Minerva's mansion. Firebird would note the TREMENDOUS expanse of the Island in all directions with nothing but endless ocean surrounding the island. she'd not seen this place in HER timeline. of the few structures and pieces she could see in the distance, they were of classic antiquity in design. the "Rotnunda" loomed large on the horizon and was clearly the center piece of the island but across the massive island were the dwellings of other members of the Six. CLEARLY a different set up than what Firebird's own version of the Six had.>>

<< now that she was HERE, she had to find someone to make contact with. Her passage through the disc and thus through Limbo actually took DAYS thanks to the way Limbo's time worked and so the mainstreams had not seen Firebird for quite some time. Firebird knew she had risked MUCH by seperating herself from her own team to find THIS Morgan and this alternate team but she always believed in following her heart and she knew it would pay off and she certainly wasnt the FIRST "alternate" to join the Six....Persephone had already blazed that trial courtesy of Darkchilde.>>


meanwhile

<< zoom across the oceans to STATESIDE...where New York City looked completely rebuilt and untouched by the disasters of six months ago. Illustra...or rather where Illustra once stood was now blocked off, MEMORIALIZED to "The Six", whom most of the world's general populace believed dead. in fact, in recent months, the attitude toward The Six , mutants and metahumans IN GENERAL seemed to have softened and even become nostalgic and POSITIVE. the change in opinion was subtle but steady across media outlets, public forums and even among law enforcement and public officials...something was changing, and it was FAR from natural in occurence. it was being ENGINEERED but carefully, cleverly.>>

<< those changes had YET to be brought to the attention of the six. but it wouldnt be long before the six and their allies AND their recent new guest would be made aware of the tremendous NEW opportunities about to open before them.>>

 

[Arsenal]

Mike rubbed Ava's forehead as she settled into a deep sleep. Nicolas rushed off with Morgan behind him quickly. Mike let them go, knowing that she was what the young man needed, much more so than him.

Karen faced him, speaking of the need to provide intense therapy to Ava and Alison. He simply looked at her tenderly as she spoke, waiting for when she finished and was giving him her full attention. He kissed her softly on the lips, lifting her face upto his as he met he. He kissed her again, nnot caring if any staff or anyone saw them at all. Enbracing her, he stepped back a bit and swallowed hard. His voice and facial expression turned to abject sadness. He hated to leave like this, but there would never be a good time.

Doc, I...am going to have to go away for a while. It has nothing to do with you, but the events of our travel through the timelines was anything but smooth. During that time, Delilah said something to me that made me angry at first, but over time... I think she may have been right in her own way. She said that I was simply an extension of Nicolas, and a liability in the field. To that end, I do not want to be a target for you to have to save, or worry about, or to coddle. I am not a child.

Mike hugged her again, clearly having trouble with this.

For some as yet undetermined amount of time, I am going into the wilderness of Aerie. It is wild and untamed, and as Nicolas has warned me to no end, several times more dangerous that any other outside habitat. This for me is both a challenge and a chance to improve myself, prove to myself that I can push past the limitations brought on by the good life. I have no idea how long I will be gone at this time, but I have to find a way to accept who I am and better myself so that I can be of improved use to you all. Otherwise, there is no need for me to be here...or anywhere. I will be in touch with you if you allow me to and I still care for you deeply Karen...But I cannot...WILL not be a burden to you or anyone else.

Mike stopped speaking and simply looked at Karen. He was certain that the Doctor would have something to say. He only hoped that she would understand...

 

[Shadow Weaver]

minerva's mansion- infrimary

<< Karen, by now had become accustomed to Mike's displays of affection and even returned their intent. It'd been a long time since a man had the trust the PRIVILAGE of having and holding Karen and being tender with her.>>

<< but something now seemed OFF. Mike who was usually cool, calm, collected but not afraid to speak his mind, seemed to be uneasy.>>

what is it? what's the matter?

<< the doctor queried with an icy tone as she held his hand a bit longer after their embrace ended.>>

Doc, I...am going to have to go away for a while. It has nothing to do with you, but the events of our travel through the timelines was anything but smooth. During that time, Delilah said something to me that made me angry at first, but over time... I think she may have been right in her own way. She said that I was simply an extension of Nicolas, and a liability in the field. To that end, I do not want to be a target for you to have to save, or worry about, or to coddle. I am not a child.

<< Karen looked at him for a moment...with a flash of disbelief in her eyes. the LAST sentence was what touched her nerve most of ALL.>>

Not a child indeed. << she said with agitation. slightly offended that he would even suggest that she treated him that way. was it always the destiny of mortal men to somehow be insecure with courting witches?>>

what is this? a wounded ego talking? a delayed reaction? or is this the age old Darren Stevens and Samantha "factor" ( )...about a mortal man being uncomfortable with having a WITCH as a wife or a..girlfriend?


<< Mike hugged her again, he was clearly having trouble with this and SHE was not sure just why he chose NOW of all times...but she stopped herself from over analyzing/berating him. clearly he needed to tell her this. clearly there was a REASON.>>

For some as yet undetermined amount of time, I am going into the wilderness of Aerie. It is wild and untamed, and as Nicolas has warned me to no end, several times more dangerous that any other outside habitat. This for me is both a challenge and a chance to improve myself, prove to myself that I can push past the limitations brought on by the good life. I have no idea how long I will be gone at this time, but I have to find a way to accept who I am and better myself so that I can be of improved use to you all. Otherwise, there is no need for me to be here...or anywhere. I will be in touch with you if you allow me to and I still care for you deeply Karen...But I cannot...WILL not be a burden to you or anyone else.

You're having a sort of identity crisis, and you think self imposed exile in the most untamed parts of Aerie is the answer? what if you're hurt? what if someone like CIRCE finds you?


You're apart of this family...now more than ever. You helped rescue Alison and Ava, how can you think that you need to "proove" ANYTHING?

<< Karen could tell that Mike's mind was made up....so she softened her tone a bit. Part of her was repulsed by this need that MEN seemed to have to PROOVE SOMETHING all of the time...even if NO ONE ELSE was as concerned about whatever "issue" it was. and part of her was rather hurt that a man she finally grew to trust and love was now choosing EXILE rather than coming to HER for help.>>


Well....

<< she said rather flatly.>>

I suppose it couldnt happen at a more opportune time. Since I will be here caring for Ava and Alison for an "as yet undetermined amount of time."

<< the tone of her voice now had a bit of sharpness to it as her finely shaped eyebrows raised a bit and her icy sapphire blue eyes fixed on Mike.>>

I understand that people, especially men...young men have deep seated compulsions to define or redefine who they are. the need for identity is primal...but that doesnt make this any easy for me, Mike.

<< closing her eyes for a moment, she pauses.>>

You do what you must. As will I...and when you're ready to come back, I think you'll find that you'll be well received, just as you have been thus far. You can stay in touch with me. I'd hope you would in case you need medical attention...

<< she stopped short of saying anything ELSE as she was ALREADY allowing her heart to grow cold as a defense.>>

 

[Harbinger]

awake

:: across the lab, Alison's monitors begin to flux...as her eyes now show signs of moving and fluttering.::

flash

the compound: Ava....these binds cant stop me from casting a spell, i'll send a distress call to morgan...to tell her where we are and...

:: the dungeon doors BUST open as lights shine brightly.::

Guard: it's show time, witch. you've got an appointment with Dr. Marcus so he can see if you're as TOUGH as your rep.

:: Alison tries to fight them but is hit across the face with a gun and falls to the ground before the soldier kicks her. When Ava tries to stop him, she's smacked away...and guards point guns at her face.::

Alison: you...you're going to ...

::Alison is then TAZERED into unconsciousness.::

Guard: take her to the lab for prep. shave her bald and strip her of this outfit she's wearing. she's nothing more than a lab rat from here on.

:: and with that, Alison is dragged away from Ava who is left behind in the cell.::

flash

:: from that moment on...everything begins to flash forward like a machine gun fire montage..as if Alison's consciousness is daring to swim through the blackness of unconscious, through the sea of nightmares above...she struggles ....her seer's eye is disoriented...but she feels herself rising up to ALERTNESS. images/pain/torture/violation/PAIN/anger/FEAR/PAIN/DEATH....PAIN!!! MORE PAIN!!...and finally, as the last "memories" flash forward in her mind....her eyes fluttering more and more and the monitors beeping more erratically. she BREACHES the "stormy waters" between HER and CONSCIOUSNESS.::

:: Alison opens her cobalt blue eyes with a start and a gasp, following be a rushing chiming sound as several machines BLOW UP courtesy of her molecular acceleration and the room, the HOUSE QUAKES to its foundation courtesy of her TK, powers that she's been out of touch with, out of focus of for so long...::

:: the ligh bulbs and fixtures begin to shatter in a cascade effect around the room as Alison struggles and flails, the remnants of PAIN and stiffness are still in her MIND even if her body is no longer being tortured...::

AHHHHH!!

:: her scream rises in octives as her eyes are now WIDE with FEAR and DISORIENTATION. the sound of rushing chimes is heard again as some objects fly into walls::

 

[Arsenal]

You're having a sort of identity crisis, and you think self imposed exile in the most untamed parts of Aerie is the answer? what if you're hurt? what if someone like CIRCE finds you?


You're apart of this family...now more than ever. You helped rescue Alison and Ava, how can you think that you need to "proove" ANYTHING?

Mike saw that Karen was hurt by his choice and he hated that...TERRIBLY. He pulled her close as she was threatening to shut herself off, the answer that seemed to come all too easy for many of the women in the Six.:hehe2:

Don't be like that, honey. Look, I KNEW already from Nicolas' monitoring of the situation that you would be greatly needed with Ava and Alison. This gives me a chance to REALLY get my self together, process what has happened and get in better shape. That's all. Besides, YOU wouldn't mind me a bit beefier? Would you?

Mike kissed her softly as he spoke. He knew that she was a bit concerned that he had not come to HER, but he knew he could take care of himself. Besides, Ava and Alison needed him so much more right now.

I understand that people, especially men...young men have deep seated compulsions to define or redefine who they are. the need for identity is primal...but that doesnt make this any easy for me, Mike.

<< closing her eyes for a moment, she pauses.>>

You do what you must. As will I...and when you're ready to come back, I think you'll find that you'll be well received, just as you have been thus far. You can stay in touch with me. I'd hope you would in case you need medical attention...

What if need OTHER attentions, HMMNN? Or are you saying that because I am going for a little walk that you will no longer be my Good Doctor?

Mike held her tightly as he spoke to her quietly, his hands caressing her hips. Were they truly alone, he would do much more, but he respected her too much to let them be "caught".

I NEED you Karen, don't misread what I am saying. And I hope to come calling regularly to talk, to re-energize my spirit and I promise, if I am injured, I will make sure to call on you. In fact...

Mike hands her a small pretty wristwatch, very well made.

In this watch is a communicator at a frequency that I will stay on. If you ever need, or WANT, me...just call. I'll come running, OK? But don't let this come betw--

A scream pierced the air as Alison came back to. Mike turned, using his hands to shield Karen instinctively as he caught a thrown tray and tossed it aside. Mike came over towards Ava and spoke to her calmly and with compassion.

ALISON. This is Mike. You are safe now, please try to calm down. You are in Barbara Minerva's mansion...

As Mike spoke to her, he signed to Karen behind his back in American Sign Language.

S.L.E.E.P. S.P.E.L.L.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas turned back as Morgan came up to him. He picked her up quickly and held her, his face buried in her bosom as he sobbed quietly, his body shaking (and shaking her in turn). He held her for several seconds as he finally let go of the pain, the hurt from the last what-seemed-like forever.

He finally let her down, his face still hiding his pain as his eyes were already dried by the time she could see him again. He spoke to her in a hoarse voice, his timbre almost strange in the level of grief he felt.

You don't KNOW how right you are, Morgan. My biggest problem right now is that two women who I owe an apology, who I would do anything to make things right again between us, cannot stomach the sight of me due to the pain caused unwittingly by my alternate. In each timeline, I saw how us falling into infighting and divisiveness destroyed us and all around us. I know how much of a burden seeing the future must be because I...saw a timeline that still breaks my heart.

Gesturing to one side, Nicolas shows Morgan a hologram of a beautiful little girl with her Mommy's hair and eyes, her Daddy's strong cheekbones and smile, and a combination of both her parents skin colors, flawless and endlessly beautiful.

Because we as a team, a FAMILY, could not stay together, THIS little girl is missing her Mommy and Daddy. Because I could not find another way to reach Alison and keep from further upsetting YOU, two of our number are laying in those beds bald, tortured and terrified.

Niciolas embraced Morgan again, kissing her like he would never see her again.

I LOVE you, MOrgan, and I just want to love you. I know you are concerned, but I swear that to you that you have nothing to fear, but I just want to know. Morgan do you dare to love me as well?

Alison's scream broke the moment as he looked into Morgan's eyes. Nicolas started back to the room, but he stopped dead in his tracks.

Morgan, my presence will not help. I will dampen the effects of Alison's TK. Go on, they need you. I will see you...perhaps another time.

With that, Nicolas teleported away, as the shaking caused by Alison's outburst seemed to lessen in intensity...