The way we were

[Athena]

Paradise Island

:: As Athena stood near Hecate and watched this startling, if not a bit unsettling scene unfold between Persephone and Demeter, she continued to show signs of emotional distress. Bringing Bupol close to her chest, the beautifull snow white owl seemed to sense his mistress' distress and did his best to comfort her. she lightly stroked his soft head again as Hecate placed her hand on Athena's back. Rampage stood on her otherside, he seemed very comfortable interacting with her...unlike many men through the centuries who often stumbled and faltered in her presence...but his courage and his perception did him credit. he wasnt as much of a pest as she had begun to think before. instead, he prooved to be insightfull and sensitive. his words helped to distract her from her growing anguish at the moment....but one phrase in particular stood out. "justice being touched by love and mercy"::

:: was that really HER? or was she just faltering from weakness. as Nicolas explained, it was a GOOD thing, but could she trust the words of a mortal that alligned himself with Persephone? this was all wrong. Persephone was supposed to give Athena a reason to DESTROY her. and NOW....how could she? if she DID destroy her, Demeter would be hurt and there would be little to justify the attack now. it appeared that Nicolas had some wisdom and understanding of his own to share with the goddess. she looked at him for a moment, her facial expression much softer than he'd ever seen before. perhaps she was coming to terms and acceptance.::

:: still, as Athena struggled with this, she watched with growing dismay as Demeter risked her safety yet AGAIN by EMBRACING her daughter. it didnt matter if Persephone was Demeter's daughter...ATHENA was Demeter's SISTER and had known and loved her FAR LONGER. Athena couldnt help but start in PROTEST, stepping forward as Demeter made the bold and risky move of hugging Persephone...REMEMBERING all too clearly the grizzly murder scene on Olympus.::

Demeter!....

 

[Hecate]

Paradise Island

[ Hecate looked over to see Nicolas speaking to Athena. a bold move indeed for Athena did not think very much of the members of the Six...MOSTLY due to their choosing to stand with Persephone. If the two goddesses had NOTHING ELSE in common...they were both certainly very unforgiving and given over to grudges. history had detailed it well for both of them in different ways.]

[ but Nicolas' words were so genuine, Hecate couldnt help but nod in approval and agreement without saying anything. This young man was definately more feeling and sensitive than his looks would suggest. and when he expressed how he would share his experiences with his own daughter..hoping that she too would find her ultimate destiny here at the end of her mortal life, it confirmed to Hecate that he was the proper suitor for Morgan after all.]

[ with her hand on Athena's back, Hecate felt the goddess becoming less tense. was she feeling better about this situation?]

[ Hecate's attention turned back to Demeter as she spoke to Persephone. the moment was so powerfull...as only the bond between a mother and child could be. something that Hecate never had directly, save for her descendants. Demeter THEN defied expection as she reached out to embrace Persephone! Athena protested and stepped forward to stop this... and Hecate understood why. She wanted to keep Demeter SAFE and Hecate TOO remembered the bloody murder scene on Olympus. it was an understandable reaction...BUT]

no, athena....it's okay...

[ Hecate said softly as she gently moved her hand now to in front of Athena to "block" her advance]

let them be. Demeter knows what she's doing...and she'll be safe.

[ Hecate nodded with affirmation as Athena looked at her with uncertainty.]

it's allright....i promise.

[ as she felt Athena's physical resistance lower, Hecate took Athena's hand into her own to offer comfort and support. still watching with intrigue and a secret sliver of warmth in her heart as this all unfolded. If DEMETER could forgive Persephone inspite of all that had happened...and go so far as to EMBRACE her daughter, than surely Hecate could forgive her best friend. Once again Demeter was showing the way, prooving how necessary she'd been to the original trinity of the moon.]


[

 

[Persephone]

:: Closing her eyes, Persephone listened to Demeter, knowing in her heart what she said was true. As much as she hated to admit it. It seemed that Demeter was actually getting through to Persephone. And in a surprising move on her mothers behalf, she HUGGED her. Persephone wasn't too keen on physical contact, unless of course it was in bed. Tensing, her eyes opened feeling her mothers embrace tighten. Unsure of what to do, the fact that she didn't have the desire to push her away and rip her head off, was huge progress. Slowly moving her hands up to the mid of Demeter's back, she placed them gently onto her, in an awkward hug, but a hug nonetheless. Pulling away finally, Persephone didn't know where to go from there. This was the last thing she had expected to happen, she wasn't exactly sure how to feel about everything. ::

"I don't--This is a lot to take in. You standing here, acting like nothing has happened between us. I don't know what to say. I don't think an apologize is fitting after murdering someone..."

:: Glancing over to Hecate and Athena, Persephone finally just allowed herself to give in. Apologizing were always a sign of weakness in her eyes--it meant she had done something wrong. And she never liked to admit she was wrong. But Persephone couldn't deny she needed to take a step forward in order to restart her life. ::

"But I am, sorry. For what I did to all of you."

 

[Hecate]

Paradise Island

[ as Demeter finally embraced Persephone, it seemed that Persephone had a cathartic release. it seemed there was something more powerfull than even Hecate's magick at work here. the power of a mother's love. Demeter had returned to her daughter when she needed it most...DESPITE what had taken place long ago. Demeter was a true example of divine forgiveness.]

[ Hecate looked on with a reflective sparkle in her golden eyes and then Persephone turned to both herself and Athena. There was an initial flash of repulsion as she looked upon Persephone. Her own legendary unforgiving nature would allow her to carry on this grudge forever if necessary but if there was one lesson she had learned, it was that her own desire for vengeance had led HER to make a most grave error in judgement in choosing CIRCE of all people to be her instrument of revenge. NEVER again would this happen though, now that the dark trinity was firmly estbalished and Circe was now dead. it appeared they BOTH had a moment of learning and clarity and in that moment, Hecate saw Persephone's genuine remorse.]

[ it took a moment, but with a slow deep breath, Hecate stepped forward away from Athena.]

You've demonstrated more courage in this moment then you have in any of your battles. I see the sincerity...i feel it and I now know that the time for forgiveness is TRULY at hand. Forgiveness is something that never...EVER came easy to me but in true form, Demeter has shown me the way and allowed me to see that it is OKAY to forgive and that it is BETTER to forgive.

[ reaching out her hand slowly to Persephone's]

I forgive you, Persephone.

[ words that had NEVER been heard from her lips before were now spoken with sincerity as she looked upon her long time best friend.]

and i welcome you back into my realm of confidance and friendship...it has been far too long since i've known the benefits of friendship, trust and mutual happiness. But since returning to this plane of existence, i see now how much i've missed....including you.

 

[Rampage]

Themyscira

Nicolas watched as a real breakthrough occured for Persephone. It is rare to get a second chance in a situation, and the chance that she received was TRULY unprecedented. To see her finally take advantage of it gave him hope that she would actually find a way to fit in with the Six. Speaking of the Six, Nicolas spoke to Hecate and Athena.

Ladies, as wonderful as this moment is and as pretty as the scenery before me <<takes a playfully mischievous look at the goddesses>> is, there are still two friends of mine about which I must inquire. How are Morgan and Alison and when may we see them?

 

[Athena]

Paradise Island

:: Athena looked down at Persephone as she finally, TRULY apologized. The Goddess of Wisdom and War didnt reply at first, instead, she looked at Demeter for a moment.::

When you were taken from us on Olympus, I grieved. Perhaps harder than many other Olympians for i had lost my sister...and in the most brutal way. Even though i have the wisdom and understanding to know that everything happens for a reason...and that the fates weave a tapestry which we ALL are subject to, I blamed myself for not being able to discern that act of violence and treachery sooner and not being there to protect you and having already thought very little of Persephone due to her childish and selfish ways, it became EASY to villify her and make her life a burden.

I was JUSTIFIED in my actions for in the time that we lived, such treachery and betrayal, even by one of our own was to be rewarded with the most HARSH punishment but Hecate intervened, much to my shock and dismay.

BUT NOW, to see you here...I am reminded all to well just how much I have missed you, dear sister.

:: in a moment of extreme surprise, Athena steps forward.::

Even now, you have prooven the benefit of showing compassion and mercy...the power and freedom that comes with FORGIVENESS...a power that perhaps I have UNDERESTIMATED given all that i have been through during the passing centuries.

:: she looks at Persephone with a less hostile and more reflective glint in her eyes.::

you have caused MUCH pain and misery. not only on Olympus but it spread to EARTH as well. The fact that you stand here NOW at all suggests you've benefited from HELP and MERCY from various sources for you MORE than deserved damnation in a variety of forms.

:: breathing in, as she paused::

BUT now, after the threat of Circe was dealt with and the seeds of recovery have been sewn, Demeter's return has prooven to be a surprising and most WELCOMED balm to my embittered heart and soul.

I can now at long last see the value of forgiveness but i can NEVER forget.

:: she added the last part with a stern overtone to remind Persephone that the goddess of wisdom is never foolish enough to believe anyone is not capable of going down a dark path they once descended before.::

I forgive you Persephone, and I free you of ALL further scrutiny and possible reprisal from those who riside on Olympus.

....including...me.

:: she said this solemnly as she looked over at Demeter once more.::

:: after a pause again, RAMPAGE broke the silence with a statement that prompted a look of "OH PLEASE" from both Athena and Hecate, even THEY had become aware of his familiar and philandering ways. still as to his question about Morgan and Alison, Athena DID respond.::

Morgan and Alison are nearly recovered and should be reganing consciousness soon. Bupol has kept an "eye" on their progress while they were in the healing temple. but you will not see them here. You will be reunited with them as Hecate takes you back to the outside world beyond the barriers of what you call "the bermuda triangle".


:: turning back to Demeter.::

Demeter, sister, though i am the goddess of wisdom...i allow MYSELF a moment of personal emotion once more as I must ask...will you be returning to Olympus?

 

[Demeter]

- Rubbing Persephone's back, Demeter pulled away from the hug as well, giving her a small smile. Hell had just froze over, Demeter was sure of it. But she wasn't going to press the matter, she was just happy Persephone allowed herself a moment of vulnerbility. Listening to her apologize, Demeter nodded, accepting it. Turning to Athena, she could tell her sister had some reservations about trusting Persephone, but the fact that she was trying was all that matter. -

- Everything was working out as it should. And it was time for her to leave. Athena hesitantly asked if she would be returning to Mount Olympus, to which Demeter sighed softly. Taking a step forward, she took his sisters hands within her own, and squeezed them gently. -

"I'm afraid not, Athena. I am no longer a God anymore; my powers were stripped the moment I died. Persephone possess them now. I've simply been 'returned' to this world as a gift for my untimely demise. It was to only happen once Persephone had learned the lessons she needed to learn. But, as of right now, I am a mortal woman. An interesting sensation to say the least."

 

[Black Widow]

Haleigh watched in silence as the reconciliation unfolded. It was touching and heartfelt, to be sure, but Haleigh was always good at keeping her more tender emotions bridled, and this is no exception.

Everyone got their feelings out and truces were formed, apologies accepted and forgiveness given. Haleigh knew that Persephone was finally allowed closure to something that happened LIFETIMES ago, and that it was a monumental moment... and so, there was little need to interfere. With the grudge resolving itself, Rampage took a chance to speak up and ask after Morgan and Alison, and Athena reassured them all that the duo would be fine and reunited with them soon. Haleigh nodded but said nothing, content to just relax into the mellow tranquility of paradise. Man, all she needed now was some alcohol. that was one vice she rather NOT be free of... well, and that one other one... the hotty-naughty one. Haleigh secretly hoped she'd be reincarnated someplace where she'd be free to behave HOWEVER she pleased... with NO repercussions and NO consequence. It didn't have to be Paradise Island, as nice and welcoming as this place was... as elite as the company might be... there were still SOME things she'd rather NOT go with out.... vices of men or not. However, she didn't see it necessary to tell these things to Athena... the Goddess of War was obviously proud of the place.

 

[Athena]

Paradise Island

:: Taking Demeter's hands, Athena looked upon her sister again with intrigue. she looked so refreshed and at peace, it seemed to sweep away the painfull ghost images of the last time she had seen Demeter alive on Olympus, still, Athena would not allow herself to forget what Persephone had done. The goddess of wisdom NEVER forgot treachery.::

:: Athena listened with intent as Demeter finally answered her question, it was as she feared, Demeter wouldnt be able to come back. Athena's head bowed a little as she closed her eyes with disappointment.::

....there are many on Olympus would be overjoyed to see you again...Artemis, Aphrodite....even Zeus :: speaking his name with tinged irritation.::

but if you must remain in the mortal realm, then I INSIST that you stay here on Paradise Island, among the tranquility and safety there in. The Amazons will protect you and I will always be a thought away. You will live your life free of the uncertainty that abounds in "man's world" beyond the borders of the bermuda triangle.

:: Bupol seemed to coo with agreement as Athena spoke. he'd always been comfortable around Demeter.::

even my beloved Bupol is happy to see you.

:: Athena said with a bit of amusement in her voice as she looked over at her familiar. but it was now time for the six to move on from here...for they did not belong in this realm. not as they were NOW anyway.::


It is time for you all to leave. To ensure that the saftey and purity of Themyscria is preserved, none of you will be able to return unless I allow it.


:: Athena seemed rather abrupt but by now, they had to realize this was her way...and the security of Themyscria was now her top concern.::

Hecate will carry you on your way to the last part of your journey. I speak on behalf of Olympus when i say....thank you...all of you...for contributing in someway to make this moment :: looking at Demeter:: possible.

 

[Hecate]

from Paradise Island to Greece

[ Hecate looked on with a slight hint of satisfaction on her face as Athena finally forgave Persephone as well. All was happening as it was meant to but with the blurring of timelines, Hecate forgot how hard it was to get down this road to forgiveness and reconciliation...and for HER it was like squeezing through an uncomfortably small narrow passage to get to another place.]

[ Demeter announced that she could not return to Olympus due to the fact that she was now mortal. Hecate herself had no desire to return to Olympus. she was never a TRUE Olympian to begin with and she had no need to reside there...but for Demeter, this had to have been an unsettling change. Athena insisted that Demeter stay on Paradise Island and Hecate agreed.]

Athena is right, Demeter. You must stay here. It is only right. You were an intregal part of the trinity of the moon and your death was a most brutal and unexpected thing. Here you will be safe and free to live your life in peace and tranquility. Not many people, outside of those Athena chooses, get this opportunity.

[ Hecate smiled as even Bupol seemed to agree. Athena had become so attached to him..the bond was very maternal and Hecate was glad that she had presented this of all gifts to Athena.]


[ Athena informed the six that their time on Paradise Island had come to an end and that Hecate would carry them on their way and with that, Hecate directed the Six to stand together.]

Athena, thank you for all of YOUR help in this. I'm glad that we were able to reconcile between US as well. I'll see you again soon and you as well, Demeter.

[ Hecate nodded to both women as she lifted her hands and the six were surrounded a sparkling golden haze that swirled faster and faster...the expanse of Paradise Island began to blur...the last images of Athena and Demeter standing in this place gave way to white light as they were now back in Greece , the six's timeline. they were now standing in front of the COMPLETELY RESTORED mansion that belonged to Barbara Minerva! the area around the mansion was once again filled with lush foliage and the moon shined brightly in the sky. it was peacefull. it almost harkened back to the time when it was simply an "enchanted forest" in Ancient Greece's timeline. ]

 

[Seer]

Minerva's Mansion

<< one place seems to spin and blur, giving way to another as Hecate teleports the six from Themyscria to Greece, now standing infront of a completely restored estate that once belonged to Barbara Minerva! the entire area was restored...seemingly untouched by anything from the recent past and there was no indication that there was ever a battle or bloodshed.>>

<< even more surprising, Dr. Victoria, Alycia Barnett and Pandora were in attendence as well, apparently having be returned from Limbo, all the women looked fine and healthy.>>

<< there air was sweet and a bit breezy, flowing through the lush leaves of the large trees around them that formed a sort of canopy effect with only the bright light of the white moon shining through from the skies above.>>

<< clearly Hecate had something to share with them before they all went home.>>

 

[Hecate]

Barbara's former residence

[ Hecate's blonde hair blew in the breeze a bit as she looked around with satisfaction. the restoration of this place was HER doing and Barbara Minerva's former residence now stood, completely in tact from top to bottom while the surrounding area outside looked as natural and untouched as it did before the red moon and Circe's violence visited the place]

[ Alycia, Karen and Pandora were present and she beckoned them to come join the six.]

There, everything's fixed now.

[ looking at the group.]

I had forgotten what it was like to be on this plane of existence. there's many feelings associated with the mortal realm that i've not experienced in a long time.

[ gesturing, a golden portal opens.]

Morgan and Alison will be returning in any moment now.

 

[Seer]

the enchanted forest- present day

<< in short order, Hecate opened a portal for Morgan and Alison to emerge through. the portal emmited strong gusts of golden winds and after a few moments, two feminine forms could be seen. Alison stepped forward first, Morgan immediately after and the women were holding hands as they helped steady each other through what appeared to be a violent vortex. their hair blowing quite a bit as they both looked refreshed and renewed.>>

<< the portal closed with the faint echo of chimes in the air as Morgan and Alison both looked a bit dreamy in their eyes...the effects of being restored and realigned by the amazon's technology, it was as if they had been gently awakened after a deep slumber.>>

<< now that everyone was present, Hecate could complete her role and involvement with the team before releasing them on their way.>>

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Enchanted Forest

<< Karen looked a little disoriented as she adjusted to her surroundings. the events on Aerie now felt more like a dream than painfull memories and here she was, in a beautifull secluded area standing before a spawling estate. she looked at Alycia and Pandora who both seemed fine. The Six returned with a beautifull woman who bore a faint resemblance to Morgan. She spoke with confidence and authority and the power that eminated from her was "off the charts". She wasnt there for the final conclusion, but this woman had to have something to the six being present and intact, as well as no sign of Circe or the red moon. She was relieved to see them all.>>

thank the goddess you're all okay!!

<< not realizing that "the goddess" was among them.>>

do not be afraid, Doctor. I am Hecate, the moon goddess...and the goddess of Witchcraft. Your daughter is to be my living avatar and YOU have the distinct honor of being her mother. You have done a splendid job raising Morgan as I knew you would. You are a true example of grace and elegance doctor.

<< Karen's opal blue eyes blinked with disbelief. she was being addressed by the Hecate herself...the apparent matriarch of their bloodline....the GODDESS of witchcraft!>>

<< as Hecate extended her hand to Karen, Karen took it into her own.>>

Hecate, I've often beheld you in my dreams....as has my daughter. I never imagined that I would ever share the same physical space with you.

<< as Hecate commended Karen on her job of raising, Morgan. Karen nodded and graciously accepted the complimented.>>

thank you.

<< she looked at Hecate as the goddess informed them all that Morgan and Alison would be returning at any moment more. turning to the portal, Karen watched with silent anxious feeling as she looked for her daughter and Alison to appear and as they came through, Karen smiled.>>

Morgan, Alison!

<< Karen went to and embraced both women, as she had long since come to regard Alison as her daughter.>>

 

[Spellbinder]

Enchanted Forest

<< first there was the searing white hot PAIN...then...just as unpleasant....the aftermath as she struggled to escape and free her friends so that they might carry on when she couldnt. then there was unconsciousness.>>

<< from that moment, till now, Morgan was unaware that Athena had intervened and turned the tide of the doomed battle or that Hecate finally exacted justice on Circe..and destroyed her utterly.>>

<< on Paradise Island, all the pain, all the damage done to her body and her psyche was repaired as she was soothed and restored on every level and soon, the pain was gone and the blackness gave way to pleasant dreams. dreamy images of her friends, her mother, ororo and even Nicolas...without his shirt on. images of her strutting a runway in paris or dancing at XS with her model friends...it was all pleasant and if she WERE dead...this time, she was at peace.>>

<< but she was to be awakened, only catching the faintest glimpse of the amazons and the wonderous place they were in before being summoned by Hecate back to where the nightmare began! Barbara Minerva's mansion! Her mother , the six and their allies and Hecate all present! Alison was by herside as well..>

Mom!

<< she said softly as she hugged her mother.>>

<< looking to her team who were all physically intact and appeared well.>>

you're all okay!! then Circe is dead?

<< looking to Hecate.>>

 

[Hecate]

the enchanted forest

[ Hecate smiled as Morgan, Alison and Karen embraced. she could see that Karen was a caring mother and that Morgan and Alison had both benefited from her. Maternal instincts never came easy to Hecate, although when interacting with Morgan, she did feel them...slightly.]

[ Morgan may not have known how blessed she was..having several strong, nuturing women in her life. especially in the presence of several team members who had lost one or both their parents.]

Circe is gone. She won't be coming back.

[ Hecate said matter of factly.]

Don't concern yourself with her anymore, Morgan. You and your team have your lives ahead of you once again and the world is much safer thanks to your efforts...and a little assistance from Athena.

[ directing Karen to stand with the others. Hecate looks at Morgan and Alison.]

Persephone has come to terms with her past and the threat of circe has been dealt with. Now you ALL can move on...but EACH of you two has something special in store.

[ looking to Alison.]

From the time you were a child, you were driven by a compulsion to learn and discover. you knew from an early age that magick and all related to it were yours for the taking...it was THIS along with your total disatisfaction with your own family dynamic that gave you the courage and the ambition to LEAVE your family at the age of 13 and explore the world ALONE, relying on your own powers as a precog and a witch to protect and sustain you while you discovered the secrets of dark magick and the occult. Your experiences lead you to cross paths with Morgan and YOU were the person who brought together ORIGINAL members of the Six to answer the global threat of Mystech. NOW the time has come for you to embrace your TRUE destiny. you will REPLACE Barbara Minerva as Pandora's guardian....as well as becoming the watcher/protector of the world's most dangerous mystical artifacts..many of which are still considered to be MYTHS by most mortals. no longer are you merely a "guardian" of the Six...you are now the Harbinger of this world...the keeper of time.

your powers and your experience have lead you to this moment...and you must prepare to leave your team and move on to this new phase of your life.

[ looking at Morgan.]

Now that you're here, it's time for you to embrace your birthright fully and take your place firmly in the dark trinity. Just as Demeter cannot return to Olympus, I do not desire to remain on this plane of existence. the dark trinity ensures that my legacy lives on in the multiverse and you are to be my avatar in this timeline. Circe was the only obstacle that stood in the way and now that she is dead, the prophecy can be fullfilled.

upon the death of witch and birth of witch, Hecate by name and choice shall bond with her body and soul.

Morgan Victoria, daughter Karen Victoria....WE are now ONE!


[ holding out her hands to Morgan...]

 

[Spellbinder]

Enchanted Forest

<< Spellbinder wasnt all too sure what had taken place, but everything seemed to be IN ORDER. Circe was dead, Barbara's mansion was restored...but SHE herself was absent....Hecate went on to reveal Alison's ultimate destiny...one that took her away from the Six and placed her HERE, in Barbara's former role but not only that...as this world's Harbinger. an amazing but yet disheartening thing all at once.>>

Alison......

<< Morgan was not happy about this.>>


But what of Barbara Minerva?? Why is she not here!

Barbara Minerva is no more. She has been reborn as Minerva, an AMAZON in Themyscria. She has fullfilled her destiny and now enjoys the reward of her honorable and courageous former life. would you deny her of that just to keep Alison by your side?

<< Morgan realized she was reacting selfishly as Hecate reprimanded her and fell silent for a moment.>>

no, Hecate. I would not.

<< she looked at Alison for a moment. it was if she had awakened from a pleasant dream to be SLAPPED IN THE FACE by REALITY! she wasnt dead...none of them were, but Alison was being taken from them!.>>

<< then, Hecate declared it was time for herself and Morgan to bond as Morgan FINALLY cemented herself in the Dark Trinity. It's true that from the moment she first discovered her witchly heritage, her connection to LIMBO and all that came with it...she felt like she was on a charging horse with no controll over its direction. Even during her time on Valiant, she didnt feel TRULY in control...which is why she hid behind her bitchy persona as protection.>>

<< then with the disaster that befell Valiant, Morgan spiraled into depression, even allowing her modeling career to wane. But her mother and ALISON helped her get her life back on track..and not a moment too soon as the shocking revelation of Blaze being ALIVE and the threat of Mystech loomed. ALISON brought those who would become the six together..INCLUDING HER and through all their adventures, their personal trials and tribulations..most notably the Inferno...Morgan continued to learn and grow...members like Haleigh, Cameron, Alexis and now Delilah, Ava and Nicolas all helping her to learn to think outside of herself and that it was OKAY to be accepting of some people...INCLUDING men!>>

<< Ororo and Karen had guided her as best they could so far, but the battle with Circe prooved to her that no matter how powerfull she thought she was, she could NEVER always do it alone. Following her restoration and "reallignment" on Paradise Island, Morgan had a feeling of integration she'd never had before and so as Hecate held her hands out to Morgan, the young sorceress knew it was time to step forward....>>

<< catching her mother's face out of the corner of her eye, Morgan stepped forward and took Hecate's hands.>>

upon the death of witch and birth of witch, Hecate by name and choice shall bond with her body and soul.

Morgan Victoria, daughter Karen Victoria....WE are now ONE!

<< a white globe forms between them, as rays of light blast forth and soon the women are surrounded by a rising malestrom of silver MYSTIC FLAMES! the sudden blast and roar of the flames made it seem like the women had been CONSUMED but there were no screams. after a few chaotic moments, the malestrom swelled to its climax and exploded with a crash of thunder...leaving a faint echo of Hecate's eldritch chimes in the air and Morgan standing there as the last remnants of the flames faded.>>

<< she looked surprisingly happy, almost smirking with her new look. a form fitting costume that showcased her tight body it was a sleeker, more refined version of her more dramatic and frightfully erotic "inferno" costume signifying a new balance and an obvious change. >>

<< the process was complete, Morgan and Hecate had bonded and Morgan was now the "goddess level" sorceress that Circe had once been. it was the final step to her integration that had begun on Paradise Island.>>

 

[Hecate]

[ Hecate's physical body was gone but her voice resounded crystal clear in the wind and from the trees around them as she spoke. her astral image remained present looking very serene.]

Now, dear Morgan, you ARE sorceress supreme here just as your counter parts are the same on their respective earths. You have had the benefit of "trial and error" in a way that others have not and so with the experience and understanding you have, you will be able to weild your power with the control that you so long sought. Your mother and Ororo...and i am forever in debt to them for all that they've done for YOU leading to this moment.

[turning to Alison]


[ to Alison.]

On some level, even without your powers as a precog, you KNEW that you were destined for something GREAT. It was that unconscious drive that has propelled you as far as you've come. do not look at this as an END...but a BEGINNING. You are being ACKNOWLEDGED by forces beyond this realm for your power and potential as well as all that you've done so far. Because of YOU, the Six are now together and though the roster has changed...they are no less committed to their collective destiny while YOU move on to yours.

You will now stand in the gap between Earth and any force that threatens it globally. Able to call on those who can assist you in preserving this planet. you also now guard the most ancient, secret and dangerous treasures and artifacts from centuries till now...keeping them from the grasp of evil, avarcious beings and mortals who should NOT know such power. Pandora will now be under your watch and who better to protect "Pandora's Box" than the woman who was chosen by Ororo to carry the SIEGE PERILOUS?


[ a chime sounds off as a staff falls from a sparkling trial that flows through the night sky. the time staff, which looks like a very large/long decorative key with a jewel orb at the top of it, spins dutifully toward Alison. *think of Sailor Pluto's staff*]

THIS is now YOUR talisman, Alison. It belongs to the Harbinger of this world. take it as you go forward to your new destiny. This estate is now YOURS to live in. It is more than a mere sprawling estate as you have seen. it sits on one of the most hallowed magick points of earth and the regal exterior of this sprawling mansion masks a bold synergy of magick and technology all the better to keep you and your new ward, Pandora, safe and secure.

[ indeed, this was quite a surprising thing to inherit for the mansion itself was not only extremely large and sprawling but the UNDERGROUND complex was just as impressive, more fortified than anything in the united states. ]





[ turning her attention to Persephone and the rest of the six]

You came here for a reason Persephone...but your link to Darkchilde's timeline and to HER is not lost. She still lives and it was through HER power and her desire to see you LIVE that you had this chance to begin anew. Do not ever forget her NOR disgrace her faith in you.

You have the chance to bond with a NEW family, some of which are versions of those you knew from before. Take them as they are HERE and discover all they have to offer you and allow them to benefit from YOU. You have prooven to be resilient and resourcefull through all these many centuries and I know you'll do well. I NOW have the confidence in you that was once lost before.

I'll miss you, Persephone. I'd forgotten how much FUN we had together in our hey day. but part of me will always be with you as long as you are in the presence of one of the dark trinity.



You've ALL done well for yourselves and it's clear you have the power and potential to succeed even in these uncertain times in this mortal realm....but ONLY if you do it TOGETHER. It was not by chance the original team was called together OR that various members have come and gone since. Each of you has prooven unique and necessary to the whole.

In the time that i've come to know you... I have realized that my initial visions about humankind were more than accurate. you've prooven that the men and women of this world would NOT be dependant or forever subject to the whims and machinations of the gods/goddesses of olympus and while some of THEM have waned in power and vitality due to other faiths/gods replacing them in the minds of mortals as well as their inability to adapt with the passage of time...OTHERS like Athena and Artemis have taken heed and adapted accordingly. You will see them again in your adventures but I will not be returning. I do not wish to remain here.

 

[Harbinger]

Enchanted forest-reaching out

:: as she awakened , she had the sense that she was somewhere that few mortals (mutant or otherwise) were meant to be but even before she could acclimate, she was summoned through a portal at Hecate's urging, Morgan too. they were back in the enchanted forest as it was in THEIR timeline but Hecate had restored EVERYTHING including Barbara's mansion.::

Karen! you and the others are safe!

:: Alison smiled as she hugged her surrogate mother and looked upon her team along with Alycia and Pandora.::

:: looking around this forest and the Mansion that once again stood so proudly, Alison quietly used her own power as a precog to "see" the fate of Barbara Minerva. So they hadnt truly LOST her after all and she had been rewarded for her brave sacrifice. it was comforting to know that Athena did seem to have mercy in her heart and gave credit where credit was due.::

:: Hecate then revealed Alison had begun to suspect as time what on. Her time with the Six was coming to an end as she was to move on to a new path while Spellbinder was finally to accept her mantle in the dark trinity. things were happening as they were meant to in the proper time, still it didnt help or make it any EASIER to know the time had come for Alison to say goodbye to The Six.::

:: she watched as Hecate bonded her essence and power with Morgan, cementing her annointing as Hecate's avatar for this timeline....and to symbolize the realization of the prophecy, Morgan was given a brand new costume. it was VERY sleek and becoming to Morgan's body..very sexy but not nearly as demonic as her last costume. a sign that she was more settled in herself.::

not too shabby, Morgan.

:: Alison smiled, trying to enjoy the positives. But still in her own heart, she began to wonder if it was all worth it. What hecate said about her from as early as age 13 was TRUE. She had left her home and family as a child, something most children couldnt even fathom and she stalked the highest reaches and deepest depths of earth...places that most men had no idea existed...all in the pursuit of knowledge of magick. and it was SHE that brought the six together. She had played a vital role all this time, and now her role was changing and it no longer included being apart of the six but instead becoming the keeper of time on this earth and the guardian of pandora and earth's most legendary and dangerous artifacts.::

I...I'm ready, Hecate.

:: she held out her hands as the time staff spun towards her and she cought it. holding it in the air as it gleamed with approval to its new mistress' grasp.::

:: her hair flowed as a rush of wind and energy traveled around her body while she lowered her hand that held the time staff. she looked at that mansion....it was now HER'S....she had just inherited it and a most unique position to match her own unique status even among witches and other magick users. No longer was she Guardian of the Six. she was now Harbinger, the keeper of time.::

:: Hecate spoke to Morgan then Persephone and finally addressed the six....commending them for how far they had come and admonishing to stay TOGETHER for what was to come and though she knew her time with them was at an end...Alison wanted to REMAIN WITH THEM.::

:: she held the staff in front of her, as the red orb shimmered and glowed..and she looked so sad as she ran her gloved hand down the staff.::

Harbinger....

:: she said softly.::

at what price have i finally realized my dream?

:: a tear began to form and fall down her cheek as she looked over at Morgan, Karen, Delilah and the rest of the team...before looking to her right to see Pandora, her new ward. she had BALKED at the idea of becoming a surrogate mother to what they had THOUGHT to be Cameron's "Children"....but now she was charged with watching over one of the most dubious figures of mythology.::

:: Hecate informed them that she did not wish to remain on plane of existence and that she would soon be leaving.::

and now I will be leaving a place of familiarity and comfort. i didnt think i would ever feel like this....but here i am just the same...wishing THIS was the dream.

 

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah had been in a daze since Athena had told them that their lives were about to change...again. Persephone's reunion with Demeter was as if it was a dream, but it was something private between family anyway. She had been pretty much alone with her thoughts and apprehensions until she found herself back at Barbara Minerva's estate, and she snapped awake.

Morgan was moving on to a new era of her life and power, becoming one with Hecate. And Alison? Alison was leaving them. For Delilah, it was as if everything was falling apart instead of becoming anew. ]

Barbara Minerva is no more. She has been reborn as Minerva, an AMAZON in Themyscria. She has fullfilled her destiny and now enjoys the reward of her honorable and courageous former life. would you deny her of that just to keep Alison by your side?

[ Yes! Yes, her heart screamed in her head. Of course she would choose Alison over Barbara. Barbara was a fantastic woman and all, and had been a great aid to them, but Alison was her friend. And that meant more than anything. She looked at Morgan, half angry at her that she hadn't said it. She knew it wasn't rational, but she was so filled with emotion that she wasn't thinking rationally. With Alison gone, and Morgan now cemented in her role in the Dark Trinity...would there be a place for her? Would Delilah even fit in with this team anymore?

She watched as the events between Hecate and Alison played out, a lump growing in her chest, bigger and bigger until she could hardly contain it. Finally, she rushed to Alison and threw her arms around her friend as the tears rolled down her face. ]

"Don't go..."