The old order changes

[Oracle]

The Clocktower

That's ABSURD! Regardless of my association with the Hellfire Club, There are some things that are abhorrent even to those who you might describe as "evil."

“But, you see, you never gave them a chance to see that you aren’t evil. You just started threatening to kill them slash ruin their careers. Can you really blame them? In the same way as I can’t blame you for being distrustful of Ashley when she gets all Grr.”

Zizi made a face to mimic Ashley’s Valkyrie face. She listened patiently as Isis said her piece – but her eyebrows did raise in surprise when Dominique announced she was leaving the Hellfire Club.

"You're leaving the Hellfire Club?! Can you...can you do that?"

Zizi sort of pictured it like the mafia, once you're in...you're in.

"Please don't hesitate to ask if you need anything - protection, a place to lay low, anything. We can put surveillance on Malice and Enchantrah..."

I have guided and trained Richard for some time and he is quite capable, powerful and resourceful. But I want MORE for him. I believe you and perhaps...even Detective Steel and Valkyrie could provide him with additional training. Will you extend that to him?

Zizi’s face erupted into a wide grin.

“Oh, of course! All you had to do was ask.”

Then after a pause.

“He’s not coming to kill anyone, is he?”

 

[Shadow Weaver]

She replies, shifting her weight again. Not wanting to put her knee-high leather boots up on the couch, she slipped them off, then turned to lay on the couch so that she could stare at the ceiling while she recounted the memories. She didn't want to have to analyze's Karen's reactions to everything she was saying while she was also trying to work through the details. She reclined onto the arm of the sofa, brushing down her hemline and pulling a throw blanket over her bare legs, more out of habit than need. She focused on the ceiling tiles.


"They are centered around a child, very young at first, but growing in age as the experiences progress. When I'm there.... I feel as if the child is mine. She looks.... like a PICTURE of me at that age."


She rubbed her temples gently, then closed her eyes, but continued to speak.

<< Karen folded her arms and crossed her legs at the knee. key detail for the doctor to note was that Haleigh had an entirely DIFFERENT BODY as a child, but even now, she still possessed a vivid memory of her former appearence. She kept silent and listened as Haleigh continued, doing her best to "blend in" the background so Haleigh wouldn't feel as self conscious.>>

"It started as an experiment.... not something I was involved in.... something that was done without my consent. It was grown in a tube at a lab somewhere. I wanted to... DESTROY it. I wanted to destroy the ones who created it. That was the essence of the first flash. In the second, I was initiating some kind of attack on the lab and the people responsible. I went into the lab and freed the toddler. I had her captors killed. I told the technician to give the kid away. I didn't want anything to do with it. In the third memory, I tried to tie up the loose end... I.... rolled a truck over... with my daughter and the adoptive father inside. The man driving died but the girl LIVED. In the last flash..... the child was a preteen. I was 'checking up on' her. I wanted to see that she was as much like me as she looked. I wanted to know what her powers were."


She finished, then fell silent, waiting for Karen to make sense of it all. To tell her she was experiencing some kind of alternate universe memory glitch, and accidently syncing up with another version of herself. Or simply that she was truly clinically insane, and suffering from multiple personality disorder, or schitzophrenic delusions, or something else equally treatable. There was also the scary possibility that these really WERE suppressed memories, and that Haleigh had some kind of engineered offspring out there. Engineered with her DNA and that of a man named Zeus.


She was prepared for any of those outcomes, or at least as prepared as one could be to receive that type of news. She just wanted a diagnoses so she could deal with it already, before it ended up hurting someone she loved.

<<The look on Karen's face was rather disturbed. Some of what Haleigh was describing...it struck the doctor that this was something MORE than a memory glitch! But before Haleigh could SEE that look, Karen shifted and cleared her throat>>


<< The things she was hearing, the nature of the "experiment"...it sounded...TOO FAMILIAR to Karen, for MORE than one reason. But she had to take this in steps. >>



Thank you for being so honest about this, Haleigh.



Can you tell me about anything you saw in these episodes that would incidate a certain period of TIME that they were taking place in? I ask this for several reasons. You are well within child bearing age, but given your established timeline as it relates to the Six and mystech, WHEN could this have happened? Further more, you are not in your your original body. If you were there are several scans that I could run...and a spell I could cast to determine if your body had been...."tampered" with, OR if you'd EVER been pregnant.

...

<< Karen felt a bit NAUSEATED at what she was about to say next...but...if anyone could HANDLE honest, it was Haleigh. >>

<< But before Karen OR Haleigh could continue, Karen's mystical proximity alarms began to go off.>>

HECATE!

<< SHe looks at the double doors, about to OPEN. She looks back at Haleigh and thrusts her hand out toward Haleigh in a quick, circular gesture. A rushing harp-like sound is heard as the crystals DISAPPEAR from around Haleigh and lights return to normal levels.>

<< Haleigh herself finds her boots reappearing back ON her and the blanket folded and back in it's original position with Karen glancing at her to reassure her that nothing they discussed would be mentioned in front of...>>

NICOLAS!

<< the doors open as the young man ENTERS, looking rather grim himself.>>

I was in a PRIVATE meeting with Haleigh.

What is it that could not WAIT?

<< Karen spoke as a doctor first and foremost, knowing Nicolas would understand that. But Nicolas had news for THEM, paritcularly Haleigh, the Six's current leader and she needed to hear it now.>>

 

[Rampage]

So tonight was the night. After a small fuss Nicolas agreed not to 'prominently display' himself (Aunt D's words) and would instead wait outside for them, monitoring as he could. He begrudgingly agreed but as her form dissipated and he got ready, he knew who he needed to talk to.

Haleigh. She was the Six leader and he currently thought it perhaps a 50/50 proposition that the truce with the Sisterhood went bye-bye tonight. It was only fair that give them a heads up.

<< Haleigh herself finds her boots reappearing back ON her and the blanket folded and back in it's original position with Karen glancing at her to reassure her that nothing they discussed would be mentioned in front of...>>

NICOLAS!

<< the doors open as the young man ENTERS, looking rather grim himself.>>

I was in a PRIVATE meeting with Haleigh.

What is it that could not WAIT?

<< Karen spoke as a doctor first and foremost, knowing Nicolas would understand that. But Nicolas had news for THEM, paritcularly Haleigh, the Six's current leader and she needed to hear it now.>>

He stepped into an actual session. Damn. Nicolas hoped they could get back to things once he was done and had left. His voice was generally even but Haleigh and Karen would notice the tension. Nicolas was prepared to fight.

Haleigh...Ma. Aunt D and Richard are leaving the Hellfire Club tonight, for good. I will be monitoring her departure and, given that no one generally quits the HC, I expect to have to fuck a few people up. I just wanted you to know Haleigh, as our leader. Now I need to go.

Nicolas began to turn to depart...

 

[Harbinger]

THAT'S IT!

SHUT UP, VIVICA!

:: Harbinger yells with FORCE as she spins around, gesturing a'la Prue Halliwell. A rushing/chiming sound is heaerd as Recall RIPPED from her chair, which falls to the floor, and SHE is IMMEDIATELY upended and sent FLYING through the air, SLAMMING into the wall so hard she's EMBEDDED into it::

I've HAD it. Do you understand me!? I've HAD IT!

::Harbinger HOLDS Vivica there::

Is this what you did to ALYCIA? Did you think you were SUPERIOR to her when you got in her face? PROVOKED HER, ANTAGONIZED HER? ALYCIA has scruples, Vivica. I DON'T. I have NO problem HURTING YOU OR WORSE!

:: She PRESSES Vivica's HARDER against the wall as she narrows her colbalt blue eyes::


NOW...let's get get a few things STRAIGHT.

:: Standing there, her face once again enshrouded in shadow::

After EVERYTHING I've been through? I DON'T GIVE A DAMN HOW YOU FEEL: about ME, CAMERON or ANYTHING ELSE. I don't CARE!

I indulged this FARCE of a "conversation" because it was important to YOU and out of APPRECIATION for the LOVE Cameron has for you. If something makes him happy, if something is GOOD for him? I want to PRESERVE IT. But YOU have an UNCANNY ability to RUIN EVERYTHING you EVER get involved in. I understand now, why Alycia found you to be so RIDICULOUS.

I...TRIED to meet you where you were, and you came to me with RUDENESS, CONDESCENSION, INDIFFERENCE AND YES, DIS-RES-PECT.

Vivica, I DON'T CARE how you feel about ME as it relates to Cameron. I. AM. HIS. SISTER. NOT in "spirit"...NOT in metaphor or surragacy...IN. FACT. IN. BLOOD. That is something you will NEVER be able to touch and NO, we are NOT equals when it comes to Cameron. NOT BY A LONG SHOT.



Cameron and I are survivors of something that would have DESTROYED you. WHATEVER happens NOW? GOOD OR BAD? That's for US to decide...AND DEAL WITH. YOU don't get a say in that.


YOU don't get to tell me what or WHO I have to accept OR acknowledge.


YOU don't get to say/ do what you want to me about MY brother AND dictate my response to it.


You could have made this MUCH EASIER on yourself if you had come to me with something OTHER than arrogance and aloofness toward a situation that encompassed me EVERY BIT as much as it encompassed Cameron, but you didn't. You expected me to just let you "CHECK ME" and "LET ME KNOW" about MY brother? I don't have to take that, NOT FROM DELILAH and NOT FROM YOU!


You want to doubt, disbelief, distrust? DO IT. It won't change ANYTHING that's happened and it won't have ANY bearing on the future...OUR future...Cameron's and MINE. YOU. ARE. NOT. A. FACTOR.


Cameron is a grown man, who can can take care of himself now. He's mended relationships with the people he felt were important enough to him to warrant that effort and in every case, he's succeeded. But he KNOWS his origins. He ALSO knows what I'll do FOR HIM and that there's nothing I WOULDN'T do to protect him in ways YOU simply CAN'T MATCH.

There's more of ME in Cameron than you could EVER hope to find of YOURSELF and your WANING influence..and the fact that you CAN'T STAND that he was destined for something BEYOND YOU is as apparent as all your OTHER RAMPANT INSECURITIES that make you stomp around like a PETULANT CHILD DEMANDING something that she's done NOTHING to DESERVE!

Who will you visit next before you finally GET THE HELL OUT and LIVE YOUR LIFE?

If you're so OVER me and what I do? Then it should be NO PROBLEM for you to KEEP YOUR DISTANCE from now on, and if you know what's good for you? that's JUST what you'll do

If Cameron wants you in his life? So be it. I am BEYOND the need to get into a PISSING CONTEST over a "position" in Cameron's world.

But this whole thing you thought you were going to do? "Letting me know" and DEMANDING gratitude?"ALLOWING" me to relate to my brother how I choose? NO. It doesn't work that way.

Like you told ME, "take it how you want." But THIS is the way it is NOW and FOREVER.

:: She gestures, and lets Vivica fall to the floor::


You don't make the rules for ME, Vivica. You're not even in my league.

::BLINK!::

:: Harbinger is GONE::

 

[Black Widow]

Karen: Can you tell me about anything you saw in these episodes that would incidate a certain period of TIME that they were taking place in? I ask this for several reasons. You are well within child bearing age, but given your established timeline as it relates to the Six and mystech, WHEN could this have happened?

Haleigh drew her knees up to her chest, wrapping her arms around them. It had been a long time since she'd let herself think about this part of her past. It was something she NEVER discussed, not with Zach, not with ANYONE.

"BEFORE the Six, before my discharge from the Navy.... when I was captured by Mystech the FIRST time... I was subject to every kind of abuse imaginable.... and I was put through many different tests. I have recently wondered....if they took more from me than I remember."

There was something else to consider, that Karen had mentioned first... trying to place the time period of the flashes. She was about to start running through screen shots to see if she could spot something telling, but Karen began to quickly adjust their setting. Haleigh reached for her gun as she switched on the X-ray vision. Once she saw it was Nicolas approaching, she relaxed as best she could.

He burst into the room, and the look on his face was one of recognition. Karen's efforts to make it look like they were just visiting were all in vain but truthfully, NO ONE would fall for the notion that Haleigh and Karen would ever just sit and visit. Haleigh frowned, not at him, but rather, at his discovery of them. She did NOT want to share the fact that she was seeking Karen's help.

Nicolas: Haleigh...Ma. Aunt D and Richard are leaving the Hellfire Club tonight, for good. I will be monitoring her departure and, given that no one generally quits the HC, I expect to have to **** a few people up. I just wanted you to know Haleigh, as our leader. Now I need to go.

She cleared her throat and rose to her feet, glancing at Karen and hoping she wouldn't mind Haleigh cutting their session short.

"Nic, WAIT. I don't want you going by yourself.... and there are some things I'd liked to discuss with Dominique anyway. I'll accompany you and watch your back. [turning to Karen] My apologies, Doctor, but this takes precedence."

 

[Persephone]

It had been days since the St. Patrick's cathedral attack--since the overall attack from the purifiers and Sister Mary Justice. The experience was rough, and everyone was dealing with it in their own way. Ava needed a little distance and time to think. The only two people she had actively spoke to were her sister Haleigh and Alison...mainly because she felt the most comfortable around them, but also because they understood not to pry or pressure her into talking about her "feelings". She was getting enough of that from Karen.

Making good on her promise to Zach, she had sought out Karen's help....to say it was difficult for the goddess was an understatement. She had always handled her own problems; never wanting to put her issues onto other people. And because she was very private about certain aspects of her past--especially what had happened to her--it was even more difficult. But she needed to do this....her health and abilities were suffering because of the emotional duress she was bottling inside. She could have gone to Haleigh.....but her sister was dealing with her own issues. Ones that she didn't want to open up to Ava about either. They were two fuucked up peas in a pod...but she respected her sisters decision regardless. She could have gone to Alison as well....Ava wasn't naive to think that Alison didn't KNOW what had happened. But she just couldn't. She couldn't face her friend knowing that Alison knew all the intimate details. She needed to ease into it...slowly start talking about it. So Karen was the best option. PLUS, the whole client/patient confidentiality aspect was comforting as well.

Still, even after a few days of talking with Karen and spending time away from the six, Ava didn't want to be around anyone else just yet. Taking a seat in a black leather arm chair that was positioned next to her fireplace, the brunette tucked her legs beside her and took a small sip of the hot green tea she had just made. Her hair was still damp from her shower about a half hour earlier, and she was now dressed in some black yoga pants and a large black oversided sweater. Putting her tea down on the end table next to her, she picked up her phone and unlocked it, seeing she had a few missed calls since being in the shower.

"Vivica?"

Raising a brow, what the hell did SHE want? Shutting her phone OFF, she decided not to bother finding out.

POP

Alison: UGH!!!

Alison suddenly appeared in front of her, visibly angry. Actually...that was an understatement. She looked like she wanted to MURDER someone.

"Uh oh."

Ava casually put her phone down and picked her mug of tea back up.

"So who pissed you off, and do I need to change?"

Taking a sip of the tea.

"I really don't want to get blood on my new sweater."

 

[Recall]

Parthenon Hotel - Conference Room

THAT'S IT!

SHUT UP, VIVICA!

:: Harbinger yells with FORCE as she spins around, gesturing a'la Prue Halliwell. A rushing/chiming sound is heaerd as Recall RIPPED from her chair, which falls to the floor, and SHE is IMMEDIATELY upended and sent FLYING through the air, SLAMMING into the wall so hard she's EMBEDDED into it::

I've HAD it. Do you understand me!? I've HAD IT!

::Harbinger HOLDS Vivica there::

Is this what you did to ALYCIA? Did you think you were SUPERIOR to her when you got in her face? PROVOKED HER, ANTAGONIZED HER? ALYCIA has scruples, Vivica. I DON'T. I have NO problem HURTING YOU OR WORSE!

:: She PRESSES Vivica's HARDER against the wall as she narrows her colbalt blue eyes::

:: Vivica was HURLED into the wall with a THUD. It hurt like a goddamn BITCH but Recall was not ABOUT to give Alison the satisfaction of pain across her face. As Alison PRESSED against her KEEPING her towards the wall, Vivica fought BACK struggling against the weight of Alison, loosening her grab. ::

"SOMEBODY here thinks they are SUPERIOR Alison..but it SURE AS HELL AIN'T ME!"

:: struggling against the Seer again. ::

"ALISON. MARBLE. Cut the crap and get your goddamn hands OFF of me!"

:: Vivica's hands CRACKLED with wild white blue energy. If Alison was going to try and kill her she was going to get one HELL of a SYNAPTIC BLAST from Vivica..one that would make sure she'd spend the rest of her days seeing the future in a wheelchair DROOLING. ::

"NOW...let's get get a few things STRAIGHT."

:: Standing there, her face once again enshrouded in shadow::

After EVERYTHING I've been through? I DON'T GIVE A DAMN HOW YOU FEEL: about ME, CAMERON or ANYTHING ELSE. I don't CARE!

"Oh yeah..I know when I don't care how somebody feels my first instinct is to try and EMBED them into a frickin' WALL! Get REAL!?"

I indulged this FARCE of a "conversation" because it was important to YOU and out of APPRECIATION for the LOVE Cameron has for you. If something makes him happy, if something is GOOD for him? I want to PRESERVE IT. But YOU have an UNCANNY ability to RUIN EVERYTHING you EVER get involved in. I understand now, why Alycia found you to be so RIDICULOUS.

I...TRIED to meet you where you were, and you came to me with RUDENESS, CONDESCENSION, INDIFFERENCE AND YES, DIS-RES-PECT.

Vivica, I DON'T CARE how you feel about ME as it relates to Cameron. I. AM. HIS. SISTER. NOT in "spirit"...NOT in metaphor or surragacy...IN. FACT. IN. BLOOD. That is something you will NEVER be able to touch and NO, we are NOT equals when it comes to Cameron. NOT BY A LONG SHOT.

"You didn't try to meet me ANYWHERE but down the bridge of your UPTURNED nose, Alison! MY rudeness? MY condescencion? MY DISRESPECT?! You're delusional. You are the biggest snob and a half i've EVER met. You constantly lord your title and your power over people so that NOBODY feels comfortable coming to you..let ALONE disagreeing with you..we've seen how THAT turns out. Alycia may have found me RIDICULOUS but that's STILL a hell of a lot better than what ANYBODY thought about YOU when I met you. So maybe we should stop with the "what people thought of me" kick because you SURE AS HELL aren't winning any prizes there, either."

Cameron and I are survivors of something that would have DESTROYED you. WHATEVER happens NOW? GOOD OR BAD? That's for US to decide...AND DEAL WITH. YOU don't get a say in that. YOU don't get to tell me what or WHO I have to accept OR acknowledge. YOU don't get to say/ do what you want to me about MY brother AND dictate my response to it. You could have made this MUCH EASIER on yourself if you had come to me with something OTHER than arrogance and aloofness toward a situation that encompassed me EVERY BIT as much as it encompassed Cameron, but you didn't. You expected me to just let you "CHECK ME" and "LET ME KNOW" about MY brother? I don't have to take that, NOT FROM DELILAH and NOT FROM YOU!

"OH GOD! LOOK! You ALL [The Six] YOU DON'T WALK ON WATER. YOU ARE NOT GOD! You are not the final say, you are NOT the one that gets to dictate or decide what I CAN and CANNOT feel about ANYTHING either..and you SURE as hell don't get to dictate what comes out of my MOUTH, whether you LIKE IT OR NOT! And when it comes to you knowing ANYTHING about your BROTHER..you should be kissing my motha-fucckin' RING. Because of your MOTHER and because of your CRAZY ASS sister that boy would have been DEAD and we BOTH know it. So don't you DARE say to me that I don't get to TELL YOU about your brother...because without ME..little "redundant" "insignificant" Vivica Lennox. "Memorex" You wouldn't HAVE a brother."

You want to doubt, disbelief, distrust? DO IT. It won't change ANYTHING that's happened and it won't have ANY bearing on the future...OUR future...Cameron's and MINE. YOU. ARE. NOT. A. FACTOR. Cameron is a grown man, who can can take care of himself now. He's mended relationships with the people he felt were important enough to him to warrant that effort and in every case, he's succeeded. But he KNOWS his origins. He ALSO knows what I'll do FOR HIM and that there's nothing I WOULDN'T do to protect him in ways YOU simply CAN'T MATCH.

"Hey..the boy never DIED or DISSAPPEARED on MY WATCH."

"There's more of ME and Cameron than you could EVER hope to find of YOURSELF and your WANING influence..and the fact that you CAN'T STAND that he was destined for something BEYOND YOU is as apparent as all your OTHER RAMPANT INSECURITIES that make you stomp around like a PETULANT CHILD DEMANDING something that she's done NOTHING to DESERVE!"

"And what is this BRAZEN display of aggression but a display of RAMPANT insecurity. I SPOKE..you CHARGED. WHO here is the petulant CHILD?"

Harbinger: "Who will you visit next before you finally GET THE HELL OUT and LIVE YOUR LIFE?"

"Whoever I goddamn NEED to visit."

"If you're so OVER me and what I do? Then it should be NO PROBLEM for you to KEEP YOUR DISTANCE from now on, and if you know what's good for you? that's JUST what you'll do."

If Cameron wants you in his life? So be it. I am BEYOND the need to get into a PISSING CONTEST over a "position" in Cameron's world.

"And yet HERE you are..."

But this whole thing you thought you were going to do? "Letting me know" and DEMANDING gratitude?"ALLOWING" me to relate to my brother how I choose? NO. It doesn't work that way. Like you told ME, "take it how you want." But THIS is the way it is NOW and FOREVER.

:: She gestures, and lets Vivica fall to the floor::


You don't make the rules for ME, Vivica. You're not even in my league.

::BLINK!::

:: Harbinger is GONE::

:: Vivica crept to the floor her chest heaving up and down. Alison's words had made her so ABSOLUTELY enraged and mad. She had been bitter for sure. Vivica KNEW her words would be laced with that but she couldn't help it. She was protective of Cameron. She had seen EVERY FAMILY HE HAD turn on him. Try to kill him...and one of them succeeded. If Alison was OFFENDED by Vivica even being suspicious..well that was certainly on her because Alison KNEW that if the situation reversed Vivica would already have been DEAD by now..if only to preemptively stop something. Vivica saw Alison as a person who never thought she was wrong..experiencing several instances that were to the contrary. ::

:: She had saved Alison for last because she knew it would be the most volitale and she knew she would react the way she did. That being said..Vivica said what she needed to say. She didn't back down. She didn't waiver. Just as Alison hadn't..so one really couldn't fault her for that. This constant "I oversee all" mentality that Alison had just really rubbed Vivica the wrong way. It shouldn't be like that. Picking herself off from the ground, she dusted her clothes off from the drywall and shrapnel and took a deep breath. ::

:: As soon as she left this building..she would not be back unless it was absolutely necessary. Something she had created with Cameron down to the finest of details was no longer something she valued. It had been tainted. In the place she helped conceive she had just been assaulted by Alison. She had made peace with Cameron and she cleared a path with Alycia. Alison was another beast altogether and she was right. Vivica had no problem keeping her distance. Alison had turned into a hermit anyway. Vivica needed to get OUT of this building and ON with her life. She would make effort with the ones who made effort with HER and she would leave the others behind. She was done. ::

 

[Harbinger]

Ava's Apartment

:: Harbinger DID look like she wanted to MURDER someone. And if this WASN'T her BROTHER'S hotel? She would have DESTROYED EVERYTHING in that room AROUND Vivica to give her a GOOD SCARE::

MOTHERFUUCK!

:: Alison SHOUTS!::

"Uh oh."

Ava casually put her phone down and picked her mug of tea back up.

"So who pissed you off, and do I need to change?"

Taking a sip of the tea.

"I really don't want to get blood on my new sweater."

:: Alison COLLAPSES down into the oversized, plush chair opposite Ava::

No...no. No need for THAT. She's not worth the effort.

::SIGH!::

VIVICA. PHUCKING. LENNOX!

I TOTALLY see why Alycia couldnt STAND her! Was she ALWAYS this much of annoying GNAT!?

:: Alison bellows as she sits up for a moment and holds out her hand, making a beckoning motion toward the BAR in Ava's suite, a bottle of glowing hemlock comes sailing through the air toward Alison's waiting grasp::

:: She immediately uncorks it and pours herself a TALL glass of it and takes a nice long GULP::

Ah. THAT'S the ticket!

:: Alison says with a bit of relief as she looks over at her friend::

Vivica is trying to act like Linda Hamilton these days. Getting in people's faces, demanding recognition AND reckoning.

She nearly got her ass kicked by Alycia, but ALYCIA has scruples. I DON'T. I'll spread that little bitch across the wall like JAM and be DONE with it.

:: Another drink::

 

[Persephone]

Alison: No...no. No need for THAT. She's not worth the effort.

Raising a single eyebrow inquisitively, Ava couldn't help but be amused by Alison's reaction as she watched her friend plop on the chair next to her.

Alison: VIVICA. PHUCKING. LENNOX!

Wrinkling her nose in disgust.

"You sure you don't want me to get dressed?"

Alison: I TOTALLY see why Alycia couldnt STAND her! Was she ALWAYS this much of annoying GNAT!?

"Why do you think I shot her all those years ago..."

Ava deadpanned, taking a sip of her tea as she watched Alison gulp down some hemlock that she summoned from the bar. Smirking, hemlock and Alison was like gas and fire: either a quick ignition or an all out raging inferno. Either way, it was great. Holding out her mug towards Alison, the precog poured some hemlock into the luke warm tea. Unlike other non-magick users, Ava's unique physiology allowed her to consume hemlock without dying...and she couldn't let her friend drink alone.

Alison: Vivica is trying to act like Linda Hamilton these days. Getting in people's faces, demanding recognition AND reckoning.

"Maybe that's why she called me earlier....What is she doing? A Tour De Six trying to prove she's 'back and here to stay'?

Alison: She nearly got her ass kicked by Alycia, but ALYCIA has scruples. I DON'T. I'll spread that little bitch across the wall like JAM and be DONE with it.

Letting out a small laugh.

"I'll bring the bread!"

 

[Rose]

Rose's home

"I know people in this city that can help. Help me understand the need and help me get to the point that we need to be. Maybe it's time to put all this money and privilege to good use. I can start there. Gather the right voices, make a presence known and go from there..."


< He looked at Rose with a calmness and clarity. >

I think that's a solid idea, Simon.


Start small, with what you know, what you have a firm grasp of. Use that to pivot yourself in the direction that your attention is needed, and go from there. Your own power will aid you in acheiving far more than you would expect, because you'll be operating from a

<< Sable, Rose's beautiful, black feline, stands up and stretches, before making her way over to the couch where Simon was seated. She jumps up on to the couch, deciding to take a closer look and inspecting the visitor in her home>>

"Thank You. For everything by the way. For letting me poke around here and feel useful..even if it's only for a few hours a day.

The children respond well to you and I very much appreciate the assistance. I'm happy to have visitors in my home, or help from volunteers in the orphanage next door.

I want you to know going forward..and I'm sure this is a promise you've heard MANY times from people and found to be empty, but I mean it...anything you need from here on out..you let me know. I may not be good for much right now, but I am from a family of fundraisers and luncheons and empty causes. It would be my honor to actually help with a WORTHY one. There is so much beauracracy going on this town..so don't underestimate the value of a well placed phone call.."


< taking another sip. >

<< For a brief moment, Rose seemed to be distracted, as if something was on her mind. She sighed for a moment as her gaze broke from Simon's>>

"Since you've sat here and listen to me go back and forth like a toddler..It's only fair I offer you the same courtesy. Are you okay? Is everything fine with the orphanage..you aren't getting any heat about..the accident?"

<< She thought for a moment. Should she discuss this with him? He'd been open and honest with her and her own abilities allowed her to sense no attempt at deception on his part>>


I've been talking with Sharon, Alycia and Zach. I do have ...one concern and they share it.

Despite Clandestine, Inc's "clean up" after the bus accident, there IS the matter of 40 children's deaths...on my watch. The State MAY not be easily deterred by Zach's efforts on my behalf.


The children that remain in my care, are all terrified that something is going to happen to them, and the one thing I may NOT be able to keep them safe and protected from, is a move by the STATE to "place them" somewhere else.

But two of my children have obvious PHYSICAL manifestations of their mutations. No foster family would take them but the state may not care, just as long as they are not HERE with me.

I have tried not to let it upset me, so that the children can at least feel SOME sense of calm and certainty that has finally started to return for them as they manage to start SLEEPING again...but I must admit, it DOES trouble me.

<< Sable has decided that Simon is an acceptable guest and makes her way back over to the couch where her mommy is sitting. She laps up on to Rose's lap with a soft mew and as Rose begin's to pet her, she purrs a bit>>

 

[Silver Swan]

Parthenon Rooftop

"Sharon, I understand feeling responsible, I really do. There are many things in my life I wish I could go back and do differently. There are people who have died because I couldn't help, or didn't. Just last week we experienced ANOTHER fight that could generate any number of 'Mary Justices'. As far as YOUR responsibility, Sharon, everyone who knows you knows that you weren't YOURSELF when you came back as the Silver Swan. You were fragmented psychologically, you were brainwashed, you were drugged... and you can hardly have been expected to control yourself at that point.

[ Zachary. He always seemed to know just what to say, and not to be cliched about it. He was speaking from a truly empathetic place. It was one of the qualities about him that had made him stand out all those years ago when she brought him on to her staff as a page.]


[ Inspite of the tragedy that they had recently endured, everything leading up to that and now in the aftermath, Sharon found herself REALLY appreciating the chance to interact with Zach on a closer, more consistent basis again. There was a sense of comfort there that she rarely found around her these days]

Even NOW, we ALL will make mistakes, and have to face the consequences of our actions... but I have ALWAYS believed that we are doing the RIGHT thing, and that's why *I* don't leave. The unfortunate reality of our situation is that we are faced with a level of responsibility that should never rest on the hearts of just Six people."

You're quite right, Zachary. Much has changed in this city and for all of us. And we agree with you about the need, the BURDEN that can't be handled just by the Six ALONE anymore.



[Alycia confirmed their feelings on the matter and pretty much told Zachary that she and Sharon both were ready to accept his invitation to join Oracle's team. BUT there was the matter of Ashley Oldenburg. ]

"Hearing you both say that.... it reminds me of the early days of the SIX.... and the way Morgan and Alison just couldn't BEAR suffering Haleigh's presence. I remember Haleigh telling me about the two of them, and how antagonistic they all were in the beginning. Haleigh would even tell me that she'd TRY to push their buttons because it AMUSED her to see them unhinged, and the EASE of doing so was enjoyable."


He looked from one woman to the other, an expression of understanding, and diplomacy.

[For Sharon, the stories of the factious relationships in the Six's EARLIEST days were mostly second hand. She hadn't seen JUST HOW BITTER the battles between Morgan, Alison and Haleigh were. But Sharon and Haleigh had locked horns enough in their own recent past for the mutate to know that what Zach was saying had merit.]

" I know defending HER isn't going to win me any points with either of you.... but I would venture to say that like Haleigh, Ashley is the way she is for a REASON. I could go so far as to suggest that like Alison and Morgan, the two of YOU may eventually find that as frustrating as Ashley is right NOW, there will come a day when you understand and appreciate having someone with her specific 'skill set' and 'perspective' on your side. The thing about people like Ashley, and indeed Haleigh too... the depth of pain they have suffered, the way they learned to COPE with that pain the things they've had to do to negotiate the obstacles of their lives... may be quite dysfunctional and disturbing to the rest of us, but it certainly makes them weapons of MASS destruction, and having them as allies rather than enemies gives us an incredible advantage."

There's no doubt that the road will be difficult...

[ Looking at Zach, then to Alycia]

But we've arrived at the start of the path and the fact that we BOTH agree with Zachary and we trust HIM, should be more than enough to go forward. We can't stop ourselves from answering a call of duty simply because of someone's...bad behavior.


Her bias against Amazons is something that any TRUE Amazon would view as a call...a challenge to OVERCOME, not shrink back from.

And...we must...WE MUST be fair. We have our backstories, so does she. Black Widow has earned the wrath of nearly EVERYONE in the Six and yet now...NONE of them would stand by and see her hurt. Neither would I. We must at least give Ashley a CHANCE. She is a prooven WARRIOR on the battle field and will not be derelict in her duty. I accept your invitation, Zachary.



Charope: Zach, you and I have worked so well together for YEARS. I don't see any reason why we won't continue that productive partnership now, and I've known Oracle since BEFORE she was Oracle. I'm the one that helped put her on the path she takes now and I...it would be an HONOR to work with her now.

:: Sharon speaks about Ashley, and Alycia, despite her bitter feelings...nods her head. Her recent experience with Vivica showed her the importance of NOT wasting time OR letting petty things build up, and despite Ashley's OBNOXIOUS behavior? There was so much MORE to look forward to, so much MORE to DO! WHY let THAT stand in their way!::


Charope: Once you turn the corner with Haleigh, you realize just how much she's GROWN on you and you actually MISS her when she's not around. That's how I felt when I first returned from Themyscira and she wasn't around when I reunited with the others. I'd gone from hating her guts to respecting her as a fighter and a leader to even viewing her as a FRIEND. We havent been on the best of terms lately...but I suppose you will squabble with those you are closest to the most. Zach, I gotta tell you, I used to call VIVICA "obtuse" but that's a word that I think was INVENTED for ASHLEY.

Charope: Her ignorance regarding Amazons IS annoying, but I was reminded of something when I had my confrontation with Vivica, and you've brought it up again now. The depth of pain a person has suffered and how it affects them and the way they live and interact with others around them.

Charope: Not so long ago, I couldn't even SEE Vivica as a HUMAN BEING and I mistreated her for years because of it. I made a mistake. Fortunately, she and I have cleared a path and as an Amazon, I must NOT let the prejudice of others cloud MY judgement.

Charope: I also accept your invitation to join Oracle's team and worth with you all...including Ashley.

:: She was sincere...but in her mind, she was already imaginging any NUMBER of scenarios where Ashley would be absolutely OBNOXIOUS AND RIDICULOUS. But why spoil the ride by looking too far ahead? Even a PRECOG knows that! ::

 

[Prophet]

The Parthenon - Top Floor - Cameron's Penthouse (Yes Morgan! TOP FLOOR!)

“I don’t know, Cameron. I absolutely LOVE my job, you’re right about that. I don’t know…”

:: Cass sighed, and then looked at Cameron. ::

“I don’t even know what to do! Hell, I don’t even know what my next step is.”

:: She brought her drink over to where Cameron was sitting and sat down across from him. She had…weird memories of this city. ::

“You guys don’t know this, well, BLAZE knows this, but I actually lived here in this city for quite some time…and it just left a bad taste in my mouth.”

:: She picked at some invisible lint on her jeans. She hadn’t thought about HIM until recently. She had left New York because HE was here…and it had hurt knowing HE was in the same city as she and wanting to KILL her. ::

He’s probably dead by now, Cassie. You’re safe…

:: That was what she always thought of when something triggered her to think of HIM. The thought of his death made it easier to live. ::

He’s dead, he’s dead, he’s dead...

:: She hadn’t realized the mere stray thoughts were making her seem anxious and trembly. She GULPED her drink down. She turned to Blaze and Cameron. ::

“What would I even DO here? Manage a nightclub?”

:: She laughed sharply. ::

“That’s Blaze’s bag now…”

:: She toasted Blaze with her now empty glass. ::

"No offense, sweetie."

He smirked at Blaze.

"Please...as if you could offend THIS wanton trollop!"

Returning his attention to Cassandra.

"Come on. Sit Down."

He gestured Cass to join him on the couch. As she sat down next to him, he grabbed her hand and held it gently sending her a thought call.

"I don't know if he's dead, darlin..but whoever he is..if he's not and he comes for you..we'll take care of it.."

Blaze interjected with her thoughts on the situation.

Mmm."

"Remember what we talked about earlier? Most people don't get to ponder "what to do" after living for 8 decades. Your life is before you."

"I don't think you should just BLOW OFF AfterDark, but, don't feel RESTRAINED by it either. You could ease your transition out of the club, installing a new management team, and if necessary, offer your resignation when the time is right."

"You've got more than enough INVESTORS among your team mates to help you start your own personal venture OR...if you're not ready to "do" anything right now, DON'T. Just BE. Be an adventurer, be a member of the Six, hone your skills and powers, and build on that part of you that you showed at the Cathedral. Even depowered...you stood up to protect yourself and Cameron. Imagine how MUCH MORE you can do now? And with continued training, you can do it with STYLE and PIZAZZ!"

"Shortly after I first arrived here, I chose to live at Minerva's Aerie. I wasn't working like I am now."

"Still, Cameron's thoughts do raise an important question: If more than one person feels ready to relocate to NYC, what will Morgan do with Melrose Place? And somehow...I don't imagine Morgan living in the Parthenon. "

Looking at Cameron.

"Nothing against you, Cam. But my sister is NEVER going to live in a building where a MAN lives on the top floor!"

Laughing at bit as she recalls the days of Illustra.

Cameron rolled his eyes and laughed.

"Hey..nobody said she had to live here. But I have to admit it would be [gazing off into the distance dreamily] pretty funny [flashing a cheeky smile] ."

[he turned his gaze back towards Cassie]

"Blaze is right though CJ. The Zenith Group has a pretty diverse portfolios with holdings in a number of different industries. Just shoot me a list of your interests and i'll arrange a tour. We can see what strikes you..."

[thinking for a moment]

"I think after what we went through together at St. Patrick's it might be just what you need. Speaking of that night..."

"I want to thank you for what you did to me. I have to admit I didn't know what was going on with you. I just knew I wanted you back. I was frustrated and maybe I wasn't helpful..but I want to thank you for saving me when I couldn't save myself. I won't forget it and I hope you I would do the same for you."

He rose his glass in the air.

"So a toast perhaps?! To new beginnings?!"

The three of them tinked their glasses together and took a celebratory swig. Suddenly Cameron got an ominous feeling in the pit of his stomach. The altercation between Vivica and Alison did not go as planned. He tried to play it off in front of Blaze and Cassandra. This was none of their business. Alison was going through ENOUGH lately and Vivica was working through her own issues. Enough for Cameron to want to let them work it out between themselves..because he knew ultimately it would. He just didn't know how...yet.

"So..Blaze..are you feeling any better about this new team of Elizabeth--excuse me.."Zizi's"? I'm not sure how I feel about it myself. It's weird. Another dog in the yard so to speak..I can tell you've been feeling a certain way about it."

 

[Longshot]

Rose's House

<< She thought for a moment. Should she discuss this with him? He'd been open and honest with her and her own abilities allowed her to sense no attempt at deception on his part>>

"I've been talking with Sharon, Alycia and Zach. I do have ...one concern and they share it."

"Despite Clandestine, Inc's "clean up" after the bus accident, there IS the matter of 40 children's deaths...on my watch. The State MAY not be easily deterred by Zach's efforts on my behalf."

"The children that remain in my care, are all terrified that something is going to happen to them, and the one thing I may NOT be able to keep them safe and protected from, is a move by the STATE to "place them" somewhere else."

"But two of my children have obvious PHYSICAL manifestations of their mutations. No foster family would take them but the state may not care, just as long as they are not HERE with me."

I have tried not to let it upset me, so that the children can at least feel SOME sense of calm and certainty that has finally started to return for them as they manage to start SLEEPING again...but I must admit, it DOES trouble me.""

<< Sable has decided that Simon is an acceptable guest and makes her way back over to the couch where her mommy is sitting. She laps up on to Rose's lap with a soft mew and as Rose begin's to pet her, she purrs a bit>>

< Simon shook his head. >

"Christ, that's awful.."

< He thought for a moment. Maybe he could help. >

"Perhaps this might be a good first step for me, Rose. What's the most pressing and biggest hurdle there is to face right now..and how could I possibly help?"

 

[Harbinger]

The Parthenon- Ava's apartment

In all the time that I've known Vivica, I've never really BOTHERED to "LOOK" closely at her. Perhaps I should have. But honestly, whatever ROLE she played in Cameron's life...it doesn't make her any different than the rest of us. She was answering a "call" on her life
following the role she was meant to play, just as we ALL do when it comes to the Six. She wants to DISMISS my pointing out DESTINY and yet she wants recognition for merely fullfilling HERS...AND at the same time, she can't STAND that Cameron's destiny takes him BEYOND any level she can reach!

I'm getting TIRED of people thinking it's okay to dismiss, mock and minimize ME because I'm a precog, but expecting a level a recognition they themselves aren't willing to give.

:: Alison exhaled/laughed a bit as she shared some Hemlock with Ava. Ava had the distinction of being the only non-magick user of the Six who could enjoy this magickal concoction without dying on the spot. This dated back to her time with Hecate.::

::The goddess and the witch had bonded very closely following their trauma during the Time Stream caper, and in the absence of Spellbinder, Persephone had been instrumental in Harbinger's recovery from the nervous breakdown she had in the immediate aftermath of the Blue Moon.::


:: Though they both had been involved in the Purifiers caper, they came to the mutual goal from opposite ends, and thus, had not worked closely together during it, nor had they seen much of each other in the immediate aftermath, but now was as good a time as any!::

:: Sigh::

:: Looking over at her friend::

Ava, thank you very much for hosting me during all this. One thing the Purifier situation reminded me of, is that I need to not miss any opportunity I have to tell my FRIENDS how I feel about them.

You're a great friend and I never feel like I have to "dumb it down" to talk to you. I can't say that about too many other people.

Being back here in NYC has stirred up alot of feelings and memories. It wasn't that long ago that I was working and living just a few blocks away, in Illustra.

So much has changed since Illustra fell. For us, for this city...everything.

:: Looking toward the panoramic window and out to the night sky::

I know you've been seeing Karen since the Purifiers confrontation...don't worry, I won't say anything. You made a promise to Zach, and you're keeping your word.

:: Looking back at Ava::


:: Ava knew that if Alison wanted to, she could be "heavy handed" with her precog/retrocognition and just "OUT" Ava's issue. She'd done it before with others...but the goddess ALSO knew that Alison DID act with sensitivity when it came to her friends, not wanting to use the truth as a weapon against them::

I'm relieved that you didn't retreat into yourself or withdraw from the resources of help [Karen] that are available to you. You know you can tell me anything you want at anytime as well.

 

[Isis]

The Clocktower

"You're leaving the Hellfire Club?! Can you...can you do that?"

Zizi sort of pictured it like the mafia, once you're in...you're in.

I told Malice and Enchantrah under no uncertain terms when they FIRST invited me to the Inner Circle that I would leave at my time and choosing. I'm not naive to assume that their LACK of objection meant that they approved or agreed, but I have never lived my life based on the approval of others...I'm not about to start doing so now.

"Please don't hesitate to ask if you need anything - protection, a place to lay low, anything. We can put surveillance on Malice and Enchantrah..."

....

Hmmm

Though I do not fear Malice or Enchantrah, I fully recognize the moment I relinquish my title and position as the Black Queen of the Inner Circle, I will become their enemy.

A place to lay low for a few days would be in order, for Richard and myself.

I plan to continue my residence at the Parthenon, but im the days immediately following my departure from the Hellfire Club, I don't wish for any reprisal on their part to encompass the Parthenon.

Plus...I just...

:: In a moment of candor with Zizi::

just want time to myself...away from EVERYTHING that has taken such a prominent place in my life the last few months.

I need time to myself, as I embark on this...new phase of my life.

:: Since the Blue Moon, Dominique had found herself working more closely with the Six, both on AND off the battle field. She'd seen more of them than she ever imagined she would and while she maintained civil and agreeable communication with most of them, having closer ties with some than others...ever since the Purifiers incident, she felt that her life had begun to overlap with the of the Six's a little TOO MUCH, even beyond the connection due to Nicolas.::

::She wanted to clear her head, make sure that she wasn't JUST going the way she was because it was something that would make THEM feel better. She'd already known for some time that her time with the HELLFIRE CLUB was coming to an end, but that didn't mean she wanted to become a "Six reservist" either. ::

:: Zizi readily and happily agreed to provide Richard Martin with additional training in the use of his powers. This pleased Dominique.::

Then after a pause.

“He’s not coming to kill anyone, is he?”

:: Dominique smirks at this question::

If he were, nothing I could tell you would prepare you for it.

:: Her young knight had many advantages due to his powers and the ability to sneak up on prey, in most cases without any detection, was one of them.::

Richard follows my lead. He doesn't kill...unless there's a NEED for it.


OR unless I REQUIRE it.

:: she thought to herself whileLooking at Zizi::

It has been a pleasure meeting with you, Zizi.

:: She extends her hand to the woman::

Consider this, my formal acceptance of your invitiation.

:: As she shakes hands with Oracle, Isis stands up::

And now I must be going. Richard and I have a few final preparations to make before departing.

:: As Zizi hands Dominique her cape, the sorceress wraps herself in it, putting on her gloves and taking her purse in hand. She follows Zizi toward the doors of her apartment.::

:: Before their final goodbye...::

My nephew, Nicolas, will be waiting for me outside of the Hellfire Club tonight. I'm sure you'rewell aware of the Hellfire Mansion's location on 5th avenue...

:: This was Dominique's own subtle way of asking Zizi to monitor the Mansion's exterior and the area around it as she and Richard departed for the last time. She wanted to provide an extra layer of protection JUST in case Malice and Enchantrah had anything planned that could cause Nicolas and herself a problem. Powerful as she was, Malice was, and always would be the infamous "queen of mystech", and anyone who could single handedly vex THE SIX for as long as she had, should not be underestimated::

Thank you again, Zizi.

We shall be in touch!

:: Smiling and nodding to the woman, Isis departs, returning to her limo that was waiting for her outside and now on her way back to the Hellfire Mansion.


RICHARD, I have secured us accomodation away from the Parthenon for a few days following our departure tonight to give us BOTH a chance to truly decompress and prepare for our new future.

Oracle has also agreed to help gauage and further train you in your abilities. I am en route to the Hellfire Mansion now. Keep your guard up and I will see you soon.

:: and as she closes one channel of communication, she opens ANOTHER::

Nicolas, I have just left a productive meeting with Oracle. I am returning to the Hellfire Mansion now. Richard and I will be ready to leave very soon.


:: She would return to the Hellfire Club, knowing that this was the last time she'd be able to enter the establishment as it's Black Queen.::


The times...they are INDEED changing

 

[Firebird]

The Parthenon- Cameron's apartment

“What would I even DO here? Manage a nightclub?”

:: She laughed sharply. ::

“That’s Blaze’s bag now…”

:: She toasted Blaze with her now empty glass. ::

"No offense, sweetie."

"None taken, hon"

"Owning and operating my own night club was a dream I've had since long before I came to this timeline, and Fire La Vadette will be a multi-pronged brand associated with XS."

Cass taking time to contemplate her FUTURE rather than dwell on her past was a good sign. It showed progress and a willingness on her part to enjoy the life AHEAD of her, to no longer squander the opportunity. Cameron and Nicolas had helped Blaze to come to a similar place when she was struggling to reconcile herself with Foxfire in this timeline and the disturbing parallels she'd seen in This world's Six and her own. Cass still had some lingering concerns, and that was understandable. She too had a past dealings in NYC and she was worried that one loose end in particular, unlikely as it might seem, was still 'out there' but she ALSO knew that whatever might come her way, she wouldn't have to face it ALONE.

He smirked at Blaze.

"Please...as if you could offend THIS wanton trollop!"

"When you see a wanton trollop, babe, you give her a KISS!"

Blaze lifted her eyebrows licked out her tongue suggestively at Cameorn as she sat back. Cameron was doing ALOT better, it seemed. But even now, as he seemed comforted by their presence, there was a certain hesitance about him. He seemed to be distracted by something else, possibly his sister? Alison had made herself scarce immediately following the battle at the cathedral, but Ava and Haleigh had convinced her to at least STAY for a few more days. Blaze knew Cameron was glad for that, but now he was in recovery mode, much like Alison was following the Blue Moon...and ALISON, though she was active again, still did not seem quite the same.

He continued to chat with Cass and Blaze. When the subject of Morgan came up...

Cameron rolled his eyes and laughed.

"Hey..nobody said she had to live here. But I have to admit it would be [gazing off into the distance dreamily] pretty funny [flashing a cheeky smile] ."

"Yeah...and it'll be even FUNNIER if Morg decides to MOVE The Parthenon to LIMBO! She'll show YOU who's ON TOP!"

Laughing as she took another drink of her second vodka tonic

"I want to thank you for what you did to me. I have to admit I didn't know what was going on with you. I just knew I wanted you back. I was frustrated and maybe I wasn't helpful..but I want to thank you for saving me when I couldn't save myself. I won't forget it and I hope you I would do the same for you."

He rose his glass in the air.

"So a toast perhaps?! To new beginnings?!"

It was clear that Cameron and Cass had been through quite an ordeal while they were held captive by Sister Mary Justice. Cass' act of courage and heart on behalf of Cameron and herself had registered with Cam on a deep level. Blaze was happy to see that the two of them were not afraid to acknowledge what happened to them AND that they had a new bond between them. it was these personal bonds among the latest emerging line up of the Six that would make this team a strong family unit, something Blaze knew was important- even more so than the powers/power levels of the individual members on the roster. In order for a body to function well, the HEART had to be whole and strong.

Blaze stood up with Cameron and Cass, reaching out to toast, but she noted Cameron's "jolt" of surprise at the end there. It was these subtle "off" moments in his interaction with them that Blaze picked up on that made her wonder what ELSE might be on his mind. Although she was sure Alison had something to do with it, she didn't know that it was in fact Alison AND VIVICA! She eyed Cameron as he quickly steadied himself, playing it off and moving on. Had Blaze and Cameron been ALONE, She would have asked him what was going on, but now what was not the time.

"So..Blaze..are you feeling any better about this new team of Elizabeth--excuse me.."Zizi's"? I'm not sure how I feel about it myself. It's weird. Another dog in the yard so to speak..I can tell you've been feeling a certain way about it."

Stretching before sitting back down, Blaze thought for a moment.

"I'm about the same as you on that , Cam. "

" I really think Zizi is awesome! She's a high powered information broker and in this day and age, that puts her in a powerful position. What mutant or meta-human WOULDN'T want her as an ally?"

"But...I am not so certain about that Ashley Oldenburg. That is one seriously aggressive viking. Yeah she's GREAT in battle AND she's babe-a-licious, but...she's...there's just something WRONG with her!"

"Zizi, Steel, that vamp...Mina, they represent something I never got to see in my own timeline...at least not until AFTER the "mainstreams" came and helped us take down Mystech and we got to Canada. OTHER mutants and metas,
who want to HELP."

"The Six has largely had to stand alone and WE are the ones destined to protect the world from Mystech...an entity most of OUR fathers and/or mothers are responsible for. But there are OTHER issues, OTHER burdens all around us."

"This latest issue with the Purifiers, the fact that we NEEDED HELP...it was..."

Blaze looked very serious as she looked at Cameron and Cass

"...Well it was humbling for all of us. But at least Zizi and her people aren't RUBBING OUR FACES in it. "

"Maybe we're just so accustomed to doing that to EACH OTHER about things that we expect OTHERS to be just as...dysfunctional as we are sometimes?"

"Still, it IS a source of relief to know that there are others out here who can and WANT to help. Who knows when the next "CIRCE" might come thundering in and we get sucked into a temporal vortex! there will still be people that need help here...and how about that guy...Tachyon? Was HE cool? I've never seen a live speedster before."

"And Andrew Murphy, Sally Spectra's driver! The Nimrod identified HIM as a mutant! Can you believe that?"

"AND...he clearly has a thing for Delilah. I've noticed THAT before. He's either incredibly brave, OR a glutton for punishment."

 

[Seer]

The Hellfire Mansion

<< At the Hellfire mansion, Dominique moves through her private quarters. What had once been elegantly decorated, now looked like a generic space with the potential to become something else. The comfort and personal touches were all gone.>>

<< Most of her personal belongings and effects had been moved via portal from here to her diamond suite at the Parthenon or private storage. >>

<< Her access to Hellfire's "benefits" and perks ended the moment she removed herself from the command console she occupied with her White and Red counterparts down below in the Hellfire Catacombs, but it didn't matter. Her time here had come to an end in her mind and she would not dwell on it any longer than necessary>>

<< She knew that Nicolas[ Haleigh had also accompanied him] was outside of the mansion, watching it and the area around it intently. The Hellfire mercenary unit was on hand this evening!>>

<< Oracle was watching as well, tapping into the cameras around the area. Posted outside and around the mansion as well as on roof tops of buildings on either side of the mansion. THIS was not a welcomed development. The mercenaries wore body armor that offered protection against temperature extremes, as well as several grades of projectiles. Their masks and helmets offered psi sheilds and their energy weapons were capable of discharging a variety of blasts. >>


<< Guards inside the club were also in attendance, and regarded Dominique with scrutiny and high caution. Someone with emotional ties to this place might be hurt, but Dominique expected as much. This was all being done to make things as "awkward" for her as possible. She was being treated like a security risk. But still she was not inimidated.>>


<< She and Richard went over all of her areas in the mansion and the catacombs below very thoroughly, removing her touch and evidence of her presence as much as possible and while she knew Malice was fully capable of seeking her out to harrass or TRY to harm her in the near future, MALICE knew that Isis would not be any
ordinary "would-be" victim and that if the white queen wanted to go that route with her, she better be prepared to invest ALOT of time and effort AND sustain heavy losses.>>


<< She stood in front of a mirror in her now empty suite, looking in a mirror. Her arrival had been marked with such "fanfare" and ceremony, but she would leave on a very different note. It was almost as if she were going to her own execution and in a way, it wAS a "death" but if anyone knew that "death" was but a state of transition to the next life, it was Isis.>>


<< Finally, the time had come for Dominique Deveraux, now the FORMER Black Queen of the Hellfire Club, and her ward, Richard Martin, to depart this place, for the final time.>>

 

[Isis]

Hellfire Mansion


:: Dominique Deveraux, a.k.a. Isis, the FORMER Black Queen of the Hellfire Club::

:: She stood in front of a large mirror in what WAS her suite in the Hellfire Mansion. Now that space was empty of all her personal touches and signs that she ever lived there.::

::When she arrived here, she saw the Hellfire Club as a move of strategy to help her achieve her goal of avenging her sister and destroying Nicolas. But so much had happened since that single-minded goal was turned on it's ear.::

::NOW the Sisterhood and the Six were in a "truce" which had benefited both of them, and Dominique found herself interacting with various members of the Six both personally AND professionally.::

::Most of all, she had an agreeable relationship with her nephew! This was hardly the outcome she had dreamed would occurr, but when she remembered and adhered to her covenant with Isis, so much MORE had happened FOR her than she could have imagined.::


:: There was a mix of anticipation AND uncertainty, but one thing that wouldn't do, was hesitation OR considering turning back. For MONTHS now, she had found herself growing distant from her White and Red counterparts in the Sisterhood and while she ensured the Hellfire Club (and all the mutants there in at various levels) were protected from a potentially catastrophic betrayal by William Stryker, she felt that her time here was now at an end.::


::NOW was the time to take her life and go in a new direction.::

:: All the preperations had been made and she had more than an idea of what she'd be doing "POST-Hellfire", but the last piece between now and THEN still remained, her FINAL departure from this place.::


:: Richard Martin, who had served as her Black Knight on the black court stood in the doorway, informing her that there was nothing else left and that she could leave at anytime::


WE can leave at anytime, Richard.

:: She reminded him as she saw him in the background of her own reflection in the mirror she stood in front of::


I'm not leaving you behind.

:: She turned around to face him::


Time grows short. Let us take our leave of this place.


:: Wraping her cape around her form, she puts on her gloves and walks toward Richard, who wanted to walk IN FRONT of her in case there were any surprises launched at her on her way out of the mansion::

We shall walk TOGETHER, Richard.

I am no longer your QUEEN, but you ARE still my ward and your wellbeing is still my concern.


:: A few moments later, we see Dominique and Richard walking together through the halls, leading toward the double doors of the main entrance.::

:: Various members of staff and Hellfire members look on as the FORMER Black Queen and Black Knight take their final walk through.::

:: Dominique was aware of the increased presence of security AND...::

Mercenaries!

:: Mere HOURS earlier, Dominique herself could have called the Hellfire Mercenaries into action, but now, only two other people had that authority in this place and she was quite certain which one of them had done so.::


Richard, stay by my side. NO overt displays of aggression. We're departing...not starting a fight!

:: The sorceress was not afraid, but she also didn't see the need for picking a fight in the mansion that was now no longer HER'S to call "home". She knew Nicolas [And Haleigh] were outside and that Oracle was monitoring as well.::

:: Down to the main hall and toward the double doors. More guards and mercenaries present, some of them even had their weapons drawn, but Isis ignored them and moved on, looking haughty as ever.::

:: They were mere STEPS from their final exit!::


::As the double doors opened...::

::FLASH!::

DOMINIQUE.

:: The White Queen stands there, BLOCKING the way out for Isis and Richard. Nicolas, Haleigh and Oracle ALL see the arrival of the White Queen and the face-to-face confrontation that is unfolding::

I couldn't LET you leave.

:: Nicolas and Haleigh were prepared to crash this party and Richard moved himself in front of Isis, causing the White Queen to look at HIM like HE was something good to EAT!::

Calm your little action figure, Isis. Before I psionically convince him he's an animated broom from Fantasia.

:: KNOWING this would piss Richard off, Malice smirked a bit. The Mercenaries around the immediate area all lifted theier weapons, training them on Richard and Isis::

:: Isis moves Richard to her side, extending her arm over in front of him::

Diana, this is a FOOLISH move on your part. I informed you, from the BEGINNING that my time with the Hellfire Club would be at MY choosing. And do NOT threaten Richard, unless you want to face ME in combat.


WE WILL take our leave of you, AND this place and you will not stop us.


:: Diana and Dominique stand there, face-to-face, staring each other down. It's a tense moment for all present::

 

[Malice]

Main entrance of the hellfire club

Poor dear, saddled with blood ties to Nicolas King...and therefore, connected to his merry little band of upstarts. It's been suggested that you'd gone SOFT. But I thought..."nooo...not DOMINIQUE DEVERAUX! Not our cold, spell casting goddess! The woman who was prepared to destroy her own Nephew!" But it appears you HAVE had some sort of...change of heart. AND you HAVE developed a habit of picking...:: looking at Richard:: STRAYS along the way, haven't you?

:: Malice eyes Richard AND Dominique both as they demonstrate a clear resolve to watch out for each other as they attempt to leave the Hellfire Club::

Isis, you always were aloof...and SO distrusting of your fellow queens.

We DID accomplish many great things, as the Sisterhood, but I wonder if you were EVER happy here with us?

:: Pausing for a moment, but not taking her eyes off of Dominique::

AS I was saying...

I couldn't just LET you leave...WITHOUT bidding you farewell in my own way, FACE...TO FACE

SURELY a woman as formal as YOU can appreciate a mere gesture of COURTESY.

Diana, the word "Courtesy" is not a word that I would EVER use to describe your actions when it comes others.

I wouldn't be so quick to judge or dismiss, Dominique. You have spilled much blood with your hands as have the rest of us in the Sisterhood. You may have had some sort of...EPIPHANY...but you are HARDLY a model of virture.

Do you think leaving this place will change anything? That it some how will balance the scales?

Do you think I will forget this TREACHERY!?

There was no "TREACHERY", Diana. I told you up front when I AGREED to accept your invitation to the Hellfire Club and the Sisterhood, that I did so of my own accord AND that I reserved the right to leave at MY time and choosing. You may not have EXPECTED me to, but UNLIKE Helena and yourself, my life is not ROOTED in this establishment. The goals I had in mind when I came here have been met, and now I'm moving on. The Hellfire Club is all about "a means to an end"...YOU know that better than ANYONE, but now you seek to judge ME for it?

WHO is being judgemental...or HYPOCRITICAL, Diana? It's certainly not ME.

STAND ASIDE, and let us pass. This departure can...and SHOULD be peaceful. "What happens NEXT" AFTER THIS is for the fates to decide.

DON'T flatter yourself, Dominique. I don't take ORDERS, least of all from someone like YOU.

And by the way, I know your little twisted NEPHEW Nicolas is in the vicinity, watching. I suggest for ALL your sakes, that you REMEMBER the truce between the Six and Sisterhood stands...as long as BOTH sides abide by its terms and conditions.

It would be UNFORTUNATE, for YOU, if "the first day of the rest of your life" turned out to be your LAST because of some foolish, over reach on the part of your demented little nephew.

You want to leave?

All you have to do, is step forward.

:iana smiles wickedly as her eyes glow::

Nobody said *I* had to make it EASY for you.

What's the matter, Dominique? AFRAID of what might happen?

 

[Black Widow]

They sat in her Aston Martin, listening to Soundgarden's 'Black Hole Sun' on the sound system as they waited for Dominque to complete her final walkthrough. Her lights turned off, Haleigh was parallel parked illegally in front of a fire hydrant, but she was right across the street from the front entrance. It was a good spot for a quick intervention and she KNEW there was no point in trying to hide her presence. Both her and Nic stared wordlessly at the double doors.

There were armed and armored guards all over the place, but it was nothing that Haleigh and Nic could not make short work of. The concern here was not Hellfire's manpower. The concern was Malice. How WAS Diana taking this idea of Isis defecting? She HAD to know that Isis had been working quite closely with the Six, and not just Nicolas. Isis had a steady gig at CAMERON'S establishment, and had been spending some time with Delilah lately as well. Not to mention that they all pretty much showed up at her performances now.

She let the music wash over her, trying to pay more attention to the lyrics than the hint of a headache that she felt. Her episodes were stress related, she reminded herself, and she trie dnot to focus on just how bad it would be to blackout here and now. She told herself everything would be FINE. They were only here to escort Dominique on her way out and ENSURE nothing happened. Their mere presence here was enough to do that. They weren't here to challenge, but they WERE making a statement: We know what's going on. We're watching. We aren't going to allow any OFFENSE to go unanswered.

She didn't believe Malice would be so foolish as to start a war over something that was agreed upon since the beginning. Isis may not be considered their ally any more, but the threat of SET was still on the table. An act of violence against Dominique would be quite enough to provoke Nic's dark side. It was one of the many reasons Haleigh needed to be here.

The doors finally opened. Haleigh caught a glimpse of Dominique and her little boytoy, and then Malice slid into frame like a dangerous serpent. Nicolas moved but Haleigh put a hand on his forearm and asked for his patience, as the music in their car transitioned to a live audio feed of the two women talking. There was a lot said between them, but Haleigh recognized Diana's game almost instantly. She'd called in all the dogs, making things LOOK tense, making things feel awkward, wanting the exit to be uncomfortable for Isis. Diana was choosing her words carefully as well, being provocative, but not TOO much.

Malice knew Isis would not be intimidated OR provoked, but there was the possibility that Richard would cross the line, which meant they were both fair game. OR..... Nicolas would flinch first, and rush headlong into battle, and Malice could use that as an excuse to either break the truce, or goad Isis into taking care of Nicolas for GOOD, which meant there'd be no need for the truce at all, and Malice could finally have another go at the Six, which Haleigh knew Diana TRULY wanted.

Malice: What's the matter, Dominique? AFRAID of what might happen?

"Nic, play it cool. If you let her see a bruise, she'll poke the SHIT out of it."

Haleigh opened her car door and stepped out into the street, strolling right up to the front, looking quite cavalier in a little black cocktail dress. Halter tops always looked great on her, and the chilly temp didn't bother her in the least. She looked ready for a night on the town, even though she didn't really plan on one. Her heels clicked on the stone steps as she approached.

"WHY would she be afraid, Diana?? You said YOURSELF.... the TRUCE STILL STANDS......'as long as BOTH sides abide by its terms and conditions'."