The weakest link

[Seer]

<< the day wears on. as the sun manages to gain dominance over the dreary over cast day. the winds ushering in the first signs of "spring"....the promise of new life for some. but that "promise" is lost on others...mainly the residents and guests of Illustra Inc.>>

<< While Haleigh(black widow) and Blaze(foxfire) were in the East Hamptons, Delilah(morningstar) was across town at the NYPD getting some information on the investigation on the Master Mold disaster, Alycia was resting in her satellite off on Illustra's 90th floor, Karen Victoria was continuing to mourn the loss of her daughter Morgan (spellbinder) while inside Morgan's penthouse on Illustra's top floor, Alexis(shockwave) had returned to her penthouse directly after the funeral and was continuing to avoid contact with the rest of the team. her mind was now lingering on the mysterious woman in white that she and alison had saw at the cathedral; Alison(guardian) was on the security floor of Illustra being briefed on the changes made to Illustra's defense systems by Clandestine Inc. now that they no longer had Morgan's magick to bolster them. She had already sensed Haleigh's purposefull omission of Alexis from the new set of premissions for unlimited access to Illustra. It all stemmed from the strange "cloud" of uncertainty that Alison had seen forming around Alexis just before Master Mold attacked.::


:: always the cold and efficient one, Alison was now almost PREOCCUPIED with "guarding" the team from anyMORE harm coming their way. it was her subconcious compulsion to focus on a new task and keep busy rather than allow herself time to grieve and reflect. she was cold and efficient as EVER right now and it showed in her glare. She would soon be calling the team and their allies to meet with Alycia in her satellite office.::

:: Alexis was about to find herself being distracted from her self centered thoughts as her telephone began to ring. the caller id indicated that it was Tempo magazine calling.......

 

[Persephone]

:: The loud ringing of her telephone drew Alexis out of her thoughts as she sat forward on her couch, reaching for the telephone. "Tempo Magazine". Rolling her eyes and letting out a low sigh, she had specifically told Tracy to hold all calls, that she would be "grieving" for Sharon....aka, a well needed day of laziness and catching up on her soap operas. ::

:: Clicking the talk button, Alexis sat back and brought the phone to her ear. ::

"Hello?"

:: Tucking her one leg under the other, the blonde sunk into her sofa and kept her eyes focused on the television. Frankly whatever Tracy was calling about wasn't her concern today. ::

 

[Harbinger]

Illustra- security floor

:: on Illustra's secret security floor, sandwiched between the business floors below and the private resident floors above, Haleigh's technical staff from Clandestine Inc were working diligently to update, change, modify Illustra's security and defense systems. Without Morgan's magick to bolster the system, there was an immediate need for the revamping of the system to better safeguard the building and all its occupants. Alison and Haleigh agreed this was the best thing to do and while Haleigh had already been briefed on the progress made, it was now Alison's turn.::

::She stood silent and stone faced with her arms folded. Wearing her newly designed costume, some of the men couldnt help by try to stare at the witch but her unforgiving cobalt blue eyes seemed to rebuke them even before they could THINK anything.::

:: she looked over print outs, and listened to detailed instructions and explanations. overall, the changes and modifcations that had been made were EXCELLENT.::

::looking at the head of Security, Alison spoke with a cold tone and clarity in diction::

these changes are excellent. I want them implimented right away so that Illustra will once again be possesed of the best possible protection against outside attacks.

Head of Security: Yes, Ms. Marble. Ms. Davidoff has also approved everything...with the exception of giving Alexis Quartermaine unlimited access to the building. What is your position on that?

::Guardian was already aware of this:: Haleigh is right, Alexis is not to be trusted. I cannot be sure just WHAT is going on with her YET, but I want her restricted to only being able to enter/exit the building to use her own private residence. set up scramblers around the building that will interfere with her power signature if there is an incident and feed her genetic signature into the the "molecular displacement" program. If necessary, we can simply evacuate her from the building at a moment's notice. No harm to HER or US.

Alison:I want some ADDITIONAL changes made as well. I went a laser security grid installed out in the hall of that floor that can ONLY be activated/deactivated by Myself, Haleigh or Doctor Karen Victoria IF it becomes necessary. Delilah will of course be the exception to that rule as her power allows her control over all forms of lasers. Only myself, Doctor Karen Victoria, Delilah Trelevan, Blaze Fielding and Haleigh Davidoff may gain access to Morgan's penthouse from this moment on. There are certain items of extreme value contained there [The scrying glass, The Darkhold and a stepping disc that Morgan bound to her area of consecreation inside the penthouse that gives the team an emergency escape to Limbo if needed, as well as the familiars]

Head of security: No problem Ms. Marble.


Alison:What plans do you have regarding the continue protection of Doctor Karen Victoria and Attourney Alycia Barnett?

Head of Security: Ms. Davidoff has ordered that Dr. Victoria and ADA Barnett continue to receive 24 hour shadowing and protection. Their vital stats are monitored and we will register any changes due to stress/anxiety/pain/injury/attack etc. we have the BEST OF THE BEST for each of them.


Alison: excellent. see to it that Doctor Victoria's loft in Soho is swept over for ANY POSSIBLE anti personnell devices and set up a link between her's and Alycia's residence via the the molecular transporter so that they BOTH have an escape route if they need it.

Head of Security: yes, Ms. Marble.

Alison: I'd like a copy of all the security protocalls and codes. Only myself and Haleigh are to have these. a back up is to be given to Alycia Barnett so that in the event that something happens to Haleigh or Myself or BOTH...She'll know what to do. [Morgan had left a copy of the original protocalls with Alison and Alycia...in case of her death]


::and with that, Alison bid the security team farewell and left. walking with poise out of the security centre. leaving some of the men to breathe a sigh of relief now that the intimdating seer [although very visually appealing..especially in her new costume] had left::

 

[Malice]

:: The loud ringing of her telephone drew Alexis out of her thoughts as she sat forward on her couch, reaching for the telephone. "Tempo Magazine". Rolling her eyes and letting out a low sigh, she had specifically told Tracy to hold all calls, that she would be "grieving" for Sharon....aka, a well needed day of laziness and catching up on her soap operas. ::

:: Clicking the talk button, Alexis sat back and brought the phone to her ear. ::

"Hello?"

:: Tucking her one leg under the other, the blonde sunk into her sofa and kept her eyes focused on the television. Frankly whatever Tracy was calling about wasn't her concern today. ::

unidentified female: Alexis Quatermaine, I know who you are.....SHOCKWAVE. I know all about you as a meta human and THE SIX. It is a dangerous time to me a mutant or a meta human..AND you're running around with witches?? Unless you want your precious secrest scrawled across the next issue of Tempo, you'll leave Illustra NOW and meet me at Central Park . Don't bother alerting anyone else either. Tracy is "in disposed" right now and Tempo will be GUTTED if you try ANYTHING..UNDERSTAND?


::the phone hangs up immediately, leaving Alexis with more questions than before. the female voice sounded so vicious and agressive...who was she?? it was clear that Alexis now had herself a little "meeting" to attend.::


:: meanwhile, Malice, seated comfortably in the back seat of an exquisite Rolls Royce, smirks as she calmly hangs the phone up. having used a "voice illusion" to disguise her own voice as well as faking the Caller ID feed into Alexis' cell phone.::

Malice: she'll be there....and we'll be waiting. you know what to do.

:: she nodded at her small troup of WILDpack soldiers who immediately deployed themselves in their assigned positions...Malice herself , still wearing one of her trademark white outfits casually seated herself on a bench, and concealed her face and upper body with a news paper. Appearing to be a business woman, or some other woman of means simply reading the paper in the afternoon.::

::they waited for their prey::

 

[Persephone]

Central Park

"Who the hell--"

:: It was too late. The woman had already hung up, making her point that she wasn't fooling around or making idol threats. Removing the phone from her ear, Alexis lowered her brows as she hit the off button. Normally she wouldn't succumb to threats or blackmail, but when it dealt with the welfare of her magazine and company, she wasn't going to take any chances. But worst of all, being exposed so soon after Sharon Kelly’s murder would be suicidal... ::

:: Rising from the sofa, Alexis was already dressed down in dark stone washed jeans that flared in a boot cut fashion and a simple black button down collared shirt that fit perfectly against her body and rested slightly below her jean's hem. Unbuttoning the cuffed sleeves and rolling them into a 3/4 length fashion, Alexis immediately made her way out of her livingroom and to her front door. Grabbing her metallic gold hobo bag, Alexis left her penthouse and Illustra. ::

:: Pulling up in a cab, Alexis climbed out of the vehicle handing the driver some cash. Looking out over the park, the blonde shut the cab door and made her way around to the car to the pathway that lead into Central Park. Resting her hand on the strap of her purse(which sat on her shoulder), Alexis slowly began to walk down the path eyeing people as they passed her. Her black stiletto healed boots clicked and scuffed softly along the concrete surface as the soft breeze blew her silky blonde locks along her neck and back. Alexis continued to walk, unsure as to where this mystery person wanted to meet....Central Park was a pretty vast area... ::

 

[Malice]

Central Park- first impressions

:: Alexis would find herself in a particularly woodsy area of the park. more secluded and less open. a few joggers passed by, and a woman was seated on the bench with her legs crossed at the knee but her torso and face were hidden behind a news paper. nothing unusual about that.::

::from behind the paper, Malice licked her lips slowly as she pouted them and her opal blue eyes sparkled with a predatory glint::

take her.

::shadows lengthen around Alexis and the sound of the trees leaves around her rustle...as she is RUSHED by three men all in black suits. faces obscured. she is slammed into a tree and hemmed up against it as two more men drop down from the tree...also in black suits but the lapels of the suits sport the WILDpack logo...something Alexis hadn't seen since Morgan destroyed Helena's original army.::

:: the soldiers all moved back and spread out...distancing themselves from Alexis and switing positions to make it difficult for her to lock onto anyone person. Alexis was met with throwing knives slamming into the tree mere INCHES from her temples on either side and one just misses her neck. it was a deliberate miss.::


:: the woman reading the news paper lowers the paper to reveal herself. its the woman in white! from the cathedral. it would seem Alison had been right after all as she smirked at Alexis and slowly stood up.::

getting angry dear? feel like lashing out with your powers and teaching these upstarts a lesson? well FORGET IT. don't try anything little girl, unless you want to OUT yourself for the metahuman that you are, out here in the open FAR away from your team.

:: standing tall even among her soldiers, Malice stands posed with her arms folded. this woman had a tight body. she was fit and beautifull and her blonde hair flowed in the breeze as she glared at Alexis like a bird of prey.::

I've been watching you for a while little girl. you think you're hot stuff, dont you?

::This is the first manifestation of one of Malice's power as she touches her index and middle finger to her forehead..a small "power up" sound is heard as a flash of white light forms at the center of her forehead. she conjures a javeline composed of white energy. the javeline glows and shimmers...the sound of energy radiating from it. ::

it was easy enough to lure you here....just as it will be easy enough to KILL YOU!


:: Malice takes aim and hurls the javeline at Alexis and it strikes her dead center in the chest. a crash of thunder is heard as the javeline unleashes a powerfull blast of psychic power that sets Alexis mind on FIRE and causes her to fall from the grasp of the soldiers. they quickly move to cover all points of entry into the secluded area where the confrontation is taking place...as the psychic attack runs its course..Alexis is able to regain her bearings again...and realizes that she's still alive. But will she be able to fight against or ecape this new foe? Malice watches Alexis with a mocking smile and waits.::

 

[Persephone]

Central Park...preparing to get her ass whipped.

:: Stopping in mid stride Alexis turned toward the bushes near by narrowing her eyes slightly. Something seemed off....Taking a step back Alexis was preparing to get out of the secluded area quickly as to not get trapped in a set up; but it was too late. Being taken by all sides, three men came out of no where and pushed Alexis into the near by tree, knocking the wind straight out of her. Two more men jumped out from the branches above before they all spread out in front of her. Slightly hunched over, Alexis looked to the men with a deadly glare.... ::

"What..."

:: Spotting the WildPack logo, Alexis' eyes went wide. There was no way in hell they had survived Morgan's attack. She sent 90% of the WildPack to Limbo...and The Six killed the remaining members. With a stunned expression on her face, Alexis quickly snapped out of it hearing the swift sounds of knifes slice through the air and hitting the tree right next to her head. ::

"Oh you mother fu..."

:: Stepping forward, Alexis' eyes went to the woman who stood from the bench and began to make her way over. It was the woman in white....she was behind this all? As Malice began to provoke Alexis and taunt her about the possibility of being exposed if she used her powers, Alexis narrowed her eyes at the woman. ::

"I don't need THEM to fight my battles...and obviously you don't know me as well as you think."

:: Instantly Alexis' body glamoured from her true forum to look like HALEIGH. If she were to go into an all out war with this woman, she'd rather Haleigh take the fall for being a mutant than have her entire family's name slandered and ruined. But as the woman continued on with her threats, Alexis's eyes widened watching Malice manifest her powers and send a javelin hurling straight at her chest. Lifting her hands defensively, the javelin slammed into her body, sending her flying back into the tree and slump to the floor. Being able to absorb the energy of the attack, the psychic portion packed a punch. Grabbing her head in pain Alexis screamed out, clenching her teeth to try and muffle her own cries of pain. ::

:: Feeling the effects of the attack subside, Alexis panted in and out, her body hunched over on the grass. Planting her palms firmly on the ground, Alexis lifted her head up looking to the woman standing tall and proud. ::

"Cute trick."

:: Slamming her hands down on the ground, it immediately began to shake violently throughout the park. The ground simultaneously began to explode around each member of the WildPack, sending currents of energy strong enough to kill an army of men; making them implode instantly. As the explosion reached Malice, the dirt, grass, and rocks instantly flew into the air like a bomb had went off. Raising her hand out, Alexis stopped the energy from entering Malice and formed a bubble around her. Something along the line of an energy cage. ::

"Who the HELL are you!"

:: Rising from the ground, Alexis slowly began to close her hand making the bubble grow smaller in side around the woman. ::

"And where did you get those men?!"

 

[Malice]

Central park- formal introduction

:: Malice watched delight as her blast knocked Shockwave back and into the tree. she knew the metahuman would absorb any raw energy, but it would appear at first glance that Malice had some formidable PSI powers. She stood with her arms folded as Alexis rose from the ground and retaliated, sending a localized shockwave out and around to attack the soldiers::

:: Malice knew the soldiers would surive though, as they THEMSELVES were now carries of the techno organic virus, giving their physical bodies a stronger constitution as well as allowing them to absorb a measure of energy and physical impact. their specially designed suits would actually STORE Shockwave's electrical blast (or a good portiion of it) as a power source which they could then release upon physical contact, or use to power their state of the art weaponry. the soldiers were staggered some even forced to their knees but they were not destroyed. simply brought down for the count. Alexis would realize THESE "WILDpack" were far stronger than the original.::

surprised to see you're old playmates? true enough, Spellbinder decimated the ranks of the WILDpack and You and your team finished off the rest, but guess what? WE GOT BETTER.

:: Malice found herself now caged in a bubble of energy which was slowly constricting at Shockwave's command. the metahuman demanded to know who she was..and where she got these men from.:


::laughing softly as she looked upon the clearly pissed metahuman, Malice one upped her AGAIN as she TRANSFORMED into a pure DIAMOND form of herself. Now granted a HIGH measure of invulnerability, as well as super strength at the SHIFT X class (50 tons), Malice extended her hand to the wall of the bubble closest to her...and began to PUSH. sending a backlash of energy out every which as the bubble began to strain and fluxuate. This had NEVER happened to Alexis before but sure enough, Malice BUSTED loose from the hubble and it dispersed sinding bolts of energy flying into near by trees and starting a fire::

oops...did i burst you little bubble honey? NOW look what you did, you've started a fire in Central Park....and you want to pin it ALL on poor Black Widow? Not only are you treacherous, but you're also the TRAITOR that your "father" and your aunt knew you would be. :: she winked as she stepped closer:: you see, I was very close to Adam and Helena...as well as Christopher and Kelly. We ALL worked so well together until you and you're little friends had to go poking your noses where they didnt belong. Well, my dear....if you must know, I'm Malice. The WHITE QUEEN of the Inner Circle....the controlling head of MysTech in America. I'm here to remind you that we are FAR from beaten...and that YOU, my dear ARE the WEAKEST LINK on that team.

:ointing at the choker on her neck:: or did you think you're new found savage instinct was of your own doing? It's time to look ahead Alexis, time to realize that NO ONE escapes their destiny. Spellbinder and Sharon Kelly couldn't escape theres...and NEITHER WILL YOU!

:: Malice waves her hand in a gesture and sends several diamond daggers flying at Alexis that strike her in her clothing and pin her back against the tree...not hitting her flesh but coming close::

Now that I've gotten your attention...I hope you'll be watching out. We WILL be in touch.

:: the shadows lengthen around the battle and the WILDpack soldiers are gone, Malice is gone as well, leaving Alexis (who is still appearing to be Haleigh) hemmed up against a tree by the diamond daggers while a rather noticeable fire is raging in the trees nearby. people are coming to see, sirens are in the air....if she doesnt find a way out...she will be caught....there were be exposure.::

 

[Persephone]

Central Park

:: Shifting her eyes to the WildPack, Alexis was stunned to see they were still alive. On their knees and in great pain, but nevertheless still alive. Helena's WildPack would of died instantly; they were nothing more than annoyances--a cluster of men who swarmed the enemy overtaking them by sheer quantity. Looking to Malice, Alexis knew right then and there this woman wasn't like any foe she had faced before.... ::

:: Alexis' mouth parted slightly as Malice literally burst Alexis' energy bubble; a bubble with enough power to blow up the Entire Empire state building, simply popped by a woman no bigger than a bean pole. Watching as the electricity flew around the park, sparking fires on shrubs and the tree in which she stood under, sudden the meta human felt herself being pinned by diamond daggers against the tree. Looking to Malice, everything was clearer. Alexis KNEW this woman...Helena spoke of her many times; but not so much as to reveal who she was or how powerful she was. Everything that had been playing out for the past few weeks was a direct result of Malice... ::

:: As quickly as she was there, she was gone. The WildPack members as well. The tree above her began to crackle and burst with flames, sending ashen leaves falling to the ground below. Ripping herself from the tree, the sleeves of her black button down shirt ripped and a few buttons popped showing a bit of 'Haleigh's' clevage. Watching as people began to flock around to see what was going on--not to mention hearing the sirens afar-- Alexis quickly grabbed her purse from the dirt covered ground and started to sprint into the brush, glamouring back into herself as she emerged back into clear view. ::

"Shit."

:: Shaking her head, if Adam, Christopher, Helena, and Kelly were a bitch to kill...Malice would sure as hell be impossible. The Six wouldn't stand a chance against the woman....something Alexis took into consideration. Quickly picking up her pace as she walked down to the street, the blonde waved down a taxi and headed back to Illustra. ::

---

:: Snapping her fingers while in the elevator, Alexis’ battered and dirty clothes instantly blurred around her and reappeared cleaned and as perfect as before she left. Running her tongue along her dried lips Malice’s words kept replaying in her head. It's time to look ahead Alexis, time to realize that NO ONE escapes their destiny. Her destiny was the six; or so she thought. Morgan’s destiny was to become a member of the six and die in the line of battle....same as Blaze and Haleigh. Both returned from the dead, but nevertheless all destiny’s in which have been fulfilled. Maybe she was never meant to be apart of the six...maybe she was meant to follow in her aunt’s and Adam’s footsteps.....maybe Alexis’ destiny was to become a member of the six to only betray them for the empire in which the team fought so hard against. ::

 

[Black Widow]

Haleigh held Blaze tightly, relieved that her advice would be heeded. The sun began to break through the clouds, and Hales couldn't help but feel a little hopeful that maybe SOME things could go right. She took a deep breath and pulled back, a genuine smile washing over her features.

"You don't owe me a damn thing.... thank you for LISTENING... your sister Jasmine.... MERCY me... its like she didnt have any ears at all."

The sounds of barking dogs a little ways away disturbs the natural quiet around them. Haleigh gestures for Blaze to come with her as she starts walking down the path towards the sounds. Spending time with her animals always soothed Haleigh, and she figured it would also be theraputic for Blaze.

"Well... there's still a while until we all meet up again this evening... walk with me... my babies have been couped up for a while in the penthouse... I think they need some playtime."

They reached a clearing, where Haleigh's gardens faded into her already greening lawn. The dogs were running circles around Zach, who tossed a frisbee to Blaze and a slobbery tennis ball to Haleigh. Delta and Echo, dogs that Blaze had already met, turned and bounded towards the women. Haleigh hurled the tennis ball right past Echo, who jumped and snapped at it but missed, and began zig zagging after it. Delta slowed and stood alert in front of Blaze, waiting for hers to be thrown... Zach and the Great Dane puppy, who was nearly the size of the other two dogs, came trotting over happily. Haleigh knelt to greet the puppy.

Zach, who'd shed his blazer and vest, was now down to slacks, a loosened white tie and a black shirt, the sleeves rolled up to reveal perfectly muscled forearms. His expression was sympathetic as he approached them, and he seemed to understand exactly the pain both Haleigh and Blaze were going to. Blaze couldn't help but feel her mood lighten in spite of herself... what she didn't know was that Zach was an empath.. and he had the tendency to try and relieve people's pain. "Blaze... its good to see you again... I'm so sorry about your sister... I know Haleigh is having a hard time with her death too... and for Haleigh to be missing some one... well... that means a LOT."

Haleigh scratched behind the puppy's ears as Zach talked... she had no idea that in another part of town, Alexis was setting her up... to take a very severe fall.. and she had no way of defending herself from such a low sneak attack, without knowing it was going on. Because she'd asked not to be bothered by CI today... the men of HERS that had tailed Alexis as far as central park would not reach her and tell her that Alexis had left illustra abruptly after the mysterious phone call... her men sat in behind the heavily tinted windows of a black sedan as Alexis disappeared into a more secluded area of the park... and simply waited for her to come back out. They maintained a low profile... their orders were only to WATCH... and not interfere.

 

[Foxfire]

East Hamptons

Haleigh's strong arms soothed the fiery mutant down to just a simmer of heat. A sigh of relief escaping her glossy lips. Their uncanny bond once again tightening and fulfilling their destiny as best friends and teammates. The brunette was sure these unique group of individuals (the Six) would become her family. Hell, they already broke through her hard exterior. And Delilah and Haleigh, both saw an exclusive sensitive woman who was struggling with her sister's death.

When it boiled down to it, Blaze would be behind her girls one hundred and ten percent. Her thoughts did travel to Prophet. He was still missing in action, she had missed that crazy guy. It was easily identifiable that Haleigh missed him too. She wondered what Cameron's reaction would be to the news of engagement between Haleigh and Zack. Blaze had her doubts if he would take it well, but the guy was fabulous at masking his emotions. She hoped the best for Prophet, knowing one day they would meet up again. She wasn't going to be negative or even gloomy anymore.

Instead, she would honor Morgan's courageous actions that saved the team and the city. And she would also visit Sharon Kelly's grave every week and place freshly cut flowers. Blaze highly respected the Senator, it was such a shame she was killed by the hands of MysTech. A bit of a Wiccan in her beliefs, Blaze believed in karma and fate.

Haleigh's argument was well thought through and believable. Stepping back some she felt her breath rustle through her lips, still shaken up. And so it would begin, the healing process. The brunette knew that void she felt would never be replaced because in her heart that was always Morgan's place. Following Haleigh across her beautifully landscaped property.

The sounds of the ocean waves crashing across the rocks echoed in her ears. Its serene beauty and the crisp air consoling her battered emotions. Mother nature had its own way of healing the soul. She looked up at the mention of Jasmine, "I forgot about Jas...for a second. Yeah she was as rough as a wild horse trying to be tamed." She grinned from ear to ear, "which is WHY you love me more." Wrapping her arm around Haleigh's waist casually.

"I know this is probably an inappropriate question but I'm curious. Have you and Zack set a wedding date?" She asked just as a yellow Frisbee came hurling in her direction. Blaze's green eyes studying Haleigh's facial expression for any inklings. Her left hand came up furiously to grip the Frisbee with her eyes still locked along her friend. "Hello, Zack." She turned to look him over.

"My, you look strapping today, Zack." She flicked her wrist to throw the Frisbee which gracefully glided along the air a few yards away. A small laugh giggling from her at the sight of Delta chasing after the Frisbee. "I remember a couple of years ago. My neighbor, Sam had this sheep dog and he never tired of playing fetch. No matter how fast or hard I threw the ball he would retrieve it and drop it at my feet." Shaking her head at the memory, "I always saw him when I was picking out my Christmas tree."

The tiny puppy's playful whelp made Blaze's heart leap. Her eyes looking the small dog over, "awww, what a sweetie." She moved closer to stroke his rich coat, "He or she is adorable." Haleigh's dogs did calm her and even lower her blood pressure that had risen earlier. Zack's presence only helped to relieve the ache she had been feeling. It was like Morgan's death never happened. Her mood more tranquil than before and the stressful look engraved on her face disappeared. "Thank you, Zack that means a lot to me."

The rustling of Delta could be heard racing back to Blaze with the yellow Frisbee clung tightly in the Great Dane's mouth. "I have a great family to rely on through thick and thin." Her eyes settling on Haleigh again. She flashed a smile to Zack regarding Haleigh's repentant in her attitude and her overall well being. "Yes..she has come a long way." She began at the sound of a swish sound was heard from the Frisbee being dropped on the green grass. Bending down she pretended to fake the Frisbee with a laugh. "I think your babies are about as sharp as you two. There's no faking anything." She tossed the toy that glide with a whistle in the air.

"I'm hardly empathic but Haleigh's eyes reveal her true emotions plus her actions. She's no longer that drone falling in line with the rest of the troop. She's a hero...like Morgan."

 

[MorningStar]

NYPD Headquarters

[ Delilah stepped off the elevator at the proper floor and asked the desk sergeant for Detective Stewart, the officer in charge of the Master Mold investigation. He was very senior - clearly the department wanted no mistakes on this one. Which was good in theory...but she worried that someone on the force so long could be a plant of MysTech. And she was determined to make sure that this case was in the right hands. The sergeant pointed her to an office in the back of the floor.

She knocked gently on the door and entered as a voice from inside told her to come in. She smiled at her colleague, seated at his desk.

"Detective Stewart? I'm Delilah Trelaven. I hear that you're in charge of the Master Mold case? How is it progressing?"

[ Stewart was a middle-aged man, though still in good physical condition. Deep blues eyes and a shaved head that tried to hide a slight onset of baldness. He looked up at her sternly, eyes flicking over her badge. ]

Det. Stewart: "Detective Trelaven - your reputation precedes you. I'm surprised that it has taken us this long to meet. You're a good cop - but that doesn't change the fact that this is my case and has nothing to do with you."

[ Delilah was taken aback by Stewart's gruff and unhelpful attitude. The smile now gone from her face, she made her case. ]

"Detective, I was a friend of the late Senator Kelly. I have a right to know what's going on with the investigation into her death..."

Det. Stewart: "I understand your concern, but this is a federal matter now. Go home, and let us do our jobs."

[ A federal matter? What was that about? She needed to get a good look at the file in her hand. And she had a feeling that it would be better if Stewart didn't know she had it. She decided to give it one more try with Stewart first. ]

"But-"

Det. Stewart: "Good day, Detective."

[ Delilah reluctantly left the office and returned to her's. As she passed the assistant the girl jumped up. ]

Assistant: "Detective Trelaven - that file you requested earlier. There was also a video attached to it. I had the media department make you a copy..."

[ Delilah had been deep in thought, but she smiled at the young girl as she took the tape and thanked her. She went into her office and shut the door, then sat down at her desk to examine the file.

As she opened it, she saw a large number of photographs. She started to flip through them. She saw pictures of the aftermath of Master Mold - and events of that day returned painfully to her. She came to pictures of a hysterical Alycia. Then the crime scene photos of Sharon's lifeless body. Thoughts of Morgan came back to her, the pain and guilt washing over her again. Tears came once again, and as a drop fell onto one of the photos, she abruptly shut the file, wiped her eyes, and stood up. Taking the file with her, she walked briskly down the hallway to the shift commander's office.

Delilah had known Captain Megan Russert since she joined the force - a fair but tough boss, she had taught Del a lot about being the "right kind" of cop, and she had become a wonderful mentor and friend. She knocked and entered without waiting for a response. Megan instantly saw in Delilah's face that something was wrong. ]

"I need to take a personal leave of absence, Captain."

Captain Russert: "Are you allright, Delilah? I know Senator Kelly's death must have hit you hard but...is a leave of absence really necessary?"

[ Megan knew that it wasn't like Delilah to ask for personal time - her job was her life. She knew Delilah would see this as weakness, though the captain did not share her young friend's viewpoint on that. ]

"Yeah - it's just I have a lot of things going on in my life right now. I think I have some vacation time coming and I'd like to take it. Please Megan."

Captain Russert: "Of course - take as long as you need. And you know you can always talk to me - about anything."

"Thank you Captain Russert. I'll start my absence effective immediately."

[ Delilah walked out of the office, Russert watching her go with a concerned face. ]

 

[Harbinger]

Illustra- 106th floor

:: From a satellite control panel now installed in her own penthouse, Alison WATCHED Alexis as she returned to Illustra and to her penthouse. shaking her head with disapproval::

Something has happened. Something which will pose a threat to us all.

::turning slowly in her chair as she looks at a picture which some how has ALL the members of the Six past and present in its image, Alison studies the picture with a look of grim regret::

Half of the team: Tempest, Prophet, Bane .......GONE. Black Widow and Foxfire were returned to us.....but now we've lost Spellbinder. It appears we may lose another in the near future. Not by death or by accident, but by CHOICE.

::reaching out into threads of time both past and present, Alison activated her powers as a Seer/Precog and began to search for understanding and answers. Her cobalt blue eyes now glowing solid white as an odd sound was heard in the air::

Alexis' behavior...it's not just a symptom its a demonstration of a complete personality change and it started the moment she adorned that choker about her neck. This isnt like Morgan's transformation before Inferno...this is something..that was planned....YEARS ago....by Helena and Adam. Her initial purpose, to serve the forces of ....MYSTECH!

::Alison considered confronting Alexis herself NOW before any further changes. Guardian could easily contain Shockwave if necessary, but the changes in Shockwave had also caused her to become far more creative and deadly in the use of her powers. It was clear to Alison that Alexis was now a growing threat....the "WHY" had not revealed itself, but it was certainly no longer a question of "IF"...only "WHEN". ::

I will not allow anyone else on this team to DIE. SHE will DIE BY MY HAND if it becomes necessary


:: the cold, brutal tone that Guardian once had during the Citadle caper was becoming apparent again.::



....but for now, it's time to gather in Alycia's office.


simultaneously to everyone on The Six, where ever they were: :: a pair of cobalt blue eyes opens in front of each member.

Guardian: Return to Illustra IMMEDIATELY. It is time to meet in Alycia Barnett's office on the 90th floor.

:: Guardian's tone was so cold...almost FORCEFULL. she hadnt sounded like this to most of the team for months now. but the change was apparent now::

 

[Persephone]

"Jesus Christ."

:: Jumping slightly at the sight of Alexis' floating eyes in front of her Alexis just happened to walk into her penthouse door from her excursion out. Alison's eyes disappeared and Alexis sighed...was it really necessary for her to go to this? It's not as if she were buddy buddy with Morgan like Delilah, Blaze, and Alison were. Now apparently Haleigh had succumb to the 'I want to be Morgan's lap dog' bug that seemed to effect everyone on this god forsaken team. Even dead Morgan had a pull on this team...it was annoying. ::

:: Tossing her purse onto the floor by her front door, Alexis turned on her heal and headed back out into the hallway. Closing the door behind her, the blonde proceeded over to the elevator and down to the 90th floor. Making her way off the elevator and down the long stretch of hallway that lead to Alycia's office, Alexis' healed boots made a soft clunking sound on the thin carpeting below. Taking her hands into the back pockets of her lowrise jeans as she walked, the blonde finally approached Alycia's office door. ::

:: Not bothering to knock, Alexis untucked her one hand and opened the door, stepping into the office. Closing the door behind her, the meta human turned around to face both Alycia and Alison. Seeing the look of displeasure in both their eyes, Alexis rolled her eyes coldly as she made her way over to one of the large leather chairs seated at the conference table. ::

:: Taking a seat, Alexis crossed her legs immediately and sat back. Waiting for the others, the meta human sat quietly not bothering to strike up a conversation. ::

 

[Harbinger]

Illustra- 90th floor Alycia's office

:: Guardian stood stone faced and with an unforgiving glare. she was fast shifting into a cold business mode....a symptom of her defense mechanism when coping with loss and grief. after all these months she wouldnt intentinally be harsh to most of her team mates but in Alexis' case, knowing what she did, she'd make an exception.::


::noting the eyeroll, Alison folded her arms and looked directly at Alexis::

How was Central Park? see any fires?

::alison was calling her out::

I'm surprised you were able to make it back in time at all...much less "change clothes" but i guess when your out masquerading as another member of the team...that makes it easier right?

:: her voice was direct and her tone was cold::

 

[Artemis]

Illustra-90th floor

:: Alycia was making last minute preperations while Alison looked on. She could FEEL the coldness radiating from the Seer....she hadnt seen her like this since the beginning of the NERVOUS caper and it was clear that something was happening.::

::surprisingly Alexis was the FIRST to arrive. Alycia and Alexis had not ever had much personal interaction with each other, she had performed several legal favors for Alexis following the citadle caper and again following AJ's funeral but it was all professional courtesy. the two women werent close beyond that and as she looked up to see Alexis walk in, she also noticed Alison's unforgiving stare.::

::thinking:: Alison is so cold.....MUCH colder than she had been of late. the way she looks at Alexis....my god, if looks could kill. something must be happening...something that she's "seen" before the others could know. I pray it will work out for her, but I must concentrate on my task at hand.

::she ignored Alexis' eye roll as she continued to finish up her last minute preparations. she knew Karen would be down soon and she wanted to make sure that this would go as smoothly as possible. She was just finishing up and seatign herself at her desk when Alison called Alexis out.::

:: Alycia interrupted with her own strong, clear voice::

Alison, PLEASE don't do this now. Let it wait until this procedure is over...for Karen's sake.

:: Alycia's eyes locked with Alison's...she was appealing to her friend and Alison nodded slowly and backed off for NOW....seating herself.::


Karen will be down in a minute and I'm sure the others received your summons loud and clear.

 

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah strode into Alycia's office. She had received Alison's message just as she reached her car, and had made good time uptime. She carried the Master Mold case file and video still under her arm. She looked at Alison. ]

"What's up?"

[ She could feel a tension in the air. ]

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Illustra-90th floor

<< after several hours of being in her daughter's luxury penthouse, Karen had cried, screamed....experienced a rainbow of emotions as she grieved for her daughter. finally she had laid on her daughter's bed in the Chamber of Dreams, holding the picture of herself holding a baby Morgan close to her heart.>>

<< she had been so weary with grief and exhaustion that she slipped into sleep. and rested peacefully for about 4 hours. finally awakening to a much gentler call from Alison. Karen had arose and was now refreshed. she was wearing a new black suit, similar cut to the one she wore to Sharon's funeral. her circular rimmed hat with veil back on as well as her large framed black sunglasses, Karen was ready to appear for the reading of her daughter's will.>>

<< with one last look in the mirror...and a quick petting of tinkerbell and the kitten, Karen quietly left her daughter's penthouse and made her way down to the 90th floor. Walking slowly but in a rhythm, she drew closer and clower to Alycia's office and the look on her face, veiled though it was, was a look of uncertainty.>>

<< finally entering...she managed a weak smile>>

....Alison, Alycia, Alexis, Delilah......

<< she greeted the women with a light, airy voice....she seemed a bit shakey even though she had rested for several hours. she seated herself closest to Alycia who was now seated at the hed of a long conference table. Alison was seated right next to Karen>>

 

[Black Widow]

Meanwhile, in the East Hamptons:

Haleigh smiled, thinking about Zach... "No... we talked about it... but didnt set one for sure... we both want to wait... not long... but at least until things resume some semblance of normal." Echo came bounding back with his tennis ball. Haleigh tried to convince the puppy to go after the ball too... the puppy simply tilted its head to one side, and stared at Hales after she threw it. Echo took off once more and Haleigh laughed at the blank look on the puppy's face.

"yes.... she IS adorable. Zach got her for me last night... and engagement gift. I named her Morgan..." Haleigh said softly.

[Central Park]

Haleigh's men sat.... they were quiet, for the most part. sometimes they'd make small talk... but mostly they watch intently for any sign of Alexis coming back out of the park... it was then that one of them saw the smoke. The driver of the sedan sprung into action, getting out of the car quickly and sprinting towards the smoke.... he was fast, and though he didnt make it all the way to the scene, he slowed to use his superior sight. He began combing the park, looking THROUGH solid objects, for any sign of Alexis. the fuck? He didnt see Alexis... but he DID spot Haleigh, running for the bushes.... he watched her go... she disappeared into the bushes... but his mutant vision allowed him to maintain a visual on her... and it wasnt until she transformed back into Alexis and hailed a cab that the man realized what he was looking at. He ran back to the car... the Director had asked not to be disturbed... this, he knew, would be worthy of exception.

[East Hamptons]

Haleigh's cell phone rang loudly, the tune to mission impossible filling the air. Haleigh's brow furrowed... that ring tone was for work.... and she'd ask not to be burdened with work today... what was so important? "Director Davidoff." Haleigh answered, but didn't do much else talking. Her good mood seemed to melt away... she listened until the man stopped talking, and then responded camly. "I see. Thank you, Tom." She hung up, took a wary breath.... Zach looked at her curiously.

Alison's eyes and her rough summons interrupted them then, and Haleigh stood, taking a deep breath and looking at her watch. Zach also stood and gave her a hug.

Zach:"I'll send you back now... and bring the dogs home in a little while."

Haleigh and Blaze appeared in the conference room a few seconds later... Haleigh looked round at the assembly, her eyes fixating momentarily on Alexis... but Haleigh saw that Karen was also here... and so she said nothing.... one look at Alison told her that the seer ALSO knew... and everyone could feel the tension in the air... haleigh stilled her anger, doing her best to allow this meeting to go smoothly...

 

[Artemis]

the reading of the will

::Alycia stood up at the head of the conference table. still in her black suit as well. a solemn expression on her face..she still managed a weak smile to all those in attendance.::

Good afternoon everyone and thank you for coming. As you know, I have been Morgan Victoria's attourney for quite some time and it is my duty....to execute the will of her estate. To that end, i have called you all, her friends and family here to this "reading of the will."

:: from her coach brief case, she withdrew a small cube::

Prior to Morgan's untimely death, she was contacted by Alison about some significant changes in the near future. She adjusted her will to accomodate those changes. Rather than have me read the will as normal procedure would require, She asked me to allow herself to address you all one last time via this holoempathic cube that she created in the event of her death. Please listen carefully and after her address, i will ensure that her will is fully executed.

:: Alycia walked around the conference table, and leaned past Haleigh to place the cube at the center of the table. walking back to her own seat, she dimmed the lights before seating ehrself at the head of the conference table.::

::the cube began to glow and chimes sounded off as a beam of light flowed up from the cube and widened..and with a low roll of thunder...there was.. Spellbinder::