Under the stars

[Seer]

<< days passed ...slow it seemed, but soon it had been a few weeks since The Six survived being "outed" by Bishop's media package and nearly destroyed by Sentinels. Wounds, both emotional and physical were healing...but there was some tension still between Morgan, Karen and Delilah and Haleigh....not so much with Delilah , as it was Haleigh. >>

<< Sharon and Alycia were gone. When they would return wasnt clear but at least the eventuality was there and with Alycia gone, Mike was now the only genetically "normal" human in their midst.>>

<< Morgan and Karen now resided in the Rotunda, the grand jewel of the Isle of Aerie once occupied by Circe. This Rotunda was similar to the Parthenon or even the halls of Olympus in terms of its luxe and grand decor. while the rest of the Six were able to fashion their own private homes in various areas around the island, minding the sprawling expanse, the abundance of flora, flowing streams and creatures that were natives to the island. the endless ocean, the winds and the skies above surrounded the six and the island was invisible to the rest of the world...much like Themyscria. ALISON was the only exception to that rule, as Minerva's mansion was not terribly far from the Isle, off a coast of Greece and as Barbara Minerva and Circe had been longtime enemies, each was well aware of the other and Alison was no mortal herself.>>

<< if the six had nothing else...they had TIME. time to reflect, accept change, prepare for a new life...and of course time to face each other more than ever before.>>

<< it is another starry evening, with the oceans continuing to flow and crash along the rocky jetty around the isle. Morgan vowed to break Haleigh's HEAD if she ever threatened her mother again and Karen was completely through addressing her all together. Karen and Morgan have refused to speak to Haleigh for weeks and it is clear that the mother and daughter duo are not going to deal with her anytime soon, placing the others in an awkward position...especially Nicolas and Mike who had the unusual (and fortunate...in their eyes alone probably) position of currently courting the witches. Alison refused to visit Aerie at this time as well for her own anger with Haleigh had not subsided either. it was CLEAR that these witches had inherited Hecate's LEGENDARY "unforgiving" spirit.>>

<< Delilah should consider herself lucky. Though SHE was the common enemy at first, Haleigh, just by being herself, managed to shift all the focus...all the ANGER from Delilah onto HERSELF. But as Hecate and Athena had warned, Delilah WOULD have to accept responsibility for her poor choices and they would ALL have to continue to GROW and LEARN.>>

<< even with an abundance of time on their hands...that would be easier said than done. There may not have been any immediate THREATS on their horizon, but the challenges and adventures were far from over.>>

<< and so we watch.>>

 

[Spellbinder]

the rotunda

<< with a scowl on her face, Morgan walked slowly through one of the winding halls of the rotunda. so splendid was this place...a different kind of luxury than Illustra's technology. There was history, there was ambience, there was an abundance of magick in the air. many artifacts, objects and statues added to the regal atmosphere of the massive rotunda as well but the demon sorceress was still not terribly happy.>>

<< she walked, wearing a black dress with a plunging V neck and silver accents. her hair was down, flowing with the wind that flowed through many of the windows and into the rotunda itself. the sorceress was still exploring and learning her new home.>>

<< she carried Tinkerbell in her arms. the siamese craned her neck a bit, smelling the sea air and her ears would go back everytime the winds whistled and echoed through the marble structure.>>

<< Morgan herself was a little LESS upset than a week ago...but still smoldering with anger at Haleigh for her treatment of her mother AND Alycia. if there was ANY WAY to incur brutality from Morgan it was to even APPEAR like you would harm her mother...something even CHRISTOPHER had to learn the hard way in years past. the silence in the rotunda...even around the island was a symptom of the tension that remained. it didnt help that Alison was effectively boycotting Aerie because of Haleigh as well.>>

I'd like to send her to limbo...or maybe to the MOON...SOMEWHERE where she might get a clue..

<< her icy voice echoed in the halls with bitterness as thoughts of Sharon and Alycia drifted into her mind and caused her facial expression to soften a bit. she wondered what they were doing. She wondered if Cameron and Blaze were okay. though they were now in a new place...there were still many valid reasons for returning to "man's world" in the near future.>>

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah blew on the plank in front of her, stirring up a cloud of sawdust. She looked out at the deserted stretch of beach and the waves lapping against the shore. If they built a resort here, they could make a mint. Despite everything that they had been through, all that they had lost, in some ways their new lives were liberating for Delilah. She used to dream of living in a small house by the sea, and now she was actually doing it. She could wake up in the morning with a swim before breakfast, and spend her days sitting in the sun and reading. She had even started shaping her own surfboard. Nicolas had offered to acquire one for her, but she liked the self-satisfaction of working with her hands. Plus it gave her something to do.

She had gotten tan in the last few weeks, spending so much time out of doors. And she was thinking of asking Nicolas for some cooking lessons, now that she had a beautiful kitchen. It was like early retirement and a vacation rolled into one.

But what Delilah was not admitting to herself, was that she was spending so much time alone avoiding confrontation with the other inhabitants of the island. Though they had "made up", and she, Haleigh and Nicolas had even made progress, she was still nervous about being around them. She constantly wondered what they were thinking of her. So she stayed in her little hideaway from the world and its problems.

She brushed the sand off her feet as she stepped onto the porch, taking a long drink of iced tea and sitting down in an adirondack chair. The blue sky perfectly mirrored the ocean, whose waves made a relaxing hypnotic sound as they crashed onto the sand. It was almost like Alison had never left, like she'd never met Bishop, like Illustra had never been destroyed. She closed her eyes and slowly drifted off to sleep.

 

[Black Widow]

Like Delilah, Haleigh kept mostly to herself. Unlike Delilah, though, it was not out of desire to avoid another awkward confrontation.... though Haleigh had a lot more animosity to face in that regard. No, that was not Haleigh's way. She carried about her business, and if she ran into Karen or Morgan, then so be it. She wasn't going to seek them out.... but she wasn't going to deliberately avoid them either. She spent her first few days exploring the expanse of the island that they now called home. It was quite impressive, and offered plenty of space and privacy for them all to settle where they wanted and yet still not be TOO far away. Haleigh began immediately scoping out places that would be suitable for her to build on... and though she found many beautiful settings, she kept going back to the stream she and Delilah had sat by on their first night here. The exact spot was a little tight... but as Haleigh meandered upstream, deeper into the jungle, she found that the freshwater stream was but a small offshoot of a large pool of water created by a waterfall. This setting struck Haleigh as perfect.... it offered a beautiful, scenic surrounding, a source of fresh water that would draw all forms of fauna, and a break in the jungle canopy allowed sunlight all the way to the jungle floor, which would allow Haleigh to design an efficient solar-powered system that stored power for night use and long stretches of inclement weather.

She worked day and night.... being a technopath simplified MANY things, but there was still much that had to be done by hand, as Haleigh didn't want to disrupt the natural surrounding any more than she HAD to and she certainly didn't want the style of her structure to CLASH with its surroundings. In the end, she kept things low key. Unlike the sweeping grandeur of the rotunda, with its many rooms and showy extravagance, Haleigh's place more suited to its setting. Her bungalow was everything she needed it to be, and she was happy to forgo the unnecessary. Rather than one all-encompassing edifice, Haleigh's was a compound of several single-room structures connected by a series of covered, gravel walkways. This allowed her to have all the space she needed, but, by building in already existing clearings, instead of scorching the earth to make one large clearing, she imposed less on the natural setting. The exterior of the compound blended smoothly with the jungle environment, and did not betray the technological splendor that was housed inside.

Haleigh took her time on the project..... days turned into weeks, yet she didn't seem bothered by the passage of time.... indeed, this was like a very much needed vacation. Occasionally, her sister or Nicolas would drop by to socialize, and while she always welcomed them with open arms, she consistently refused their suggestions that she make amends with Karen and Morgan, for Haleigh was as stubbornly proud as they were unwilling to forgive. She had acted on her emotions and while she knew her words had been harsh.... they had also been how she FELT and she wasn't ABOUT to back down from them, even if it meant enduring this silent treatment FOREVER. And since they had no NEED to see each other, because for once, the world did not need saving and they were not forced to work together out of necessity, it seemed the state of things would REMAIN this way for the foreseeable future.... with Morgan and Haleigh's friendship and truce on an INDEFINITE suspension.

 

[Persephone]

:: Weeks had passed since the six had moved from New York City to Aerie. For the goddess, it really wasn't a hard transition...she was in her element so to speak. Surrounded by gorgeous untouched forest and beaches; rolling mountains covered in thick greenery. It reminded her of her villa in Athens, but far more exceptional. It had taken several days for Ava to explore the island to find the perfect place for her new home to be. Opting to stay near the shores of the beach, with the help of Morgan and Nicolas, Ava created a Mediterranean styled villa (back view) that rested along the moutain side and shores of the ocean. Taking her 'redesign' a step further, Ava decided to create some stables and trails within the untouched forest that surrounded her home, and a large garden full of numerous types of flowers from throughout the world. It was an oasis created by 'mother earth', really...a garden of beauty and serenity that Ava absolutely loved. ::

--

:: The wind blew back Ava's long brown hair as she rode bareback on Aslan, a gorgeous all black mustang that she had found roaming in some fields on the other side of the island. Aslan was a magnificent creature, full of power and grace. Galloping under an archway of weeping willow branches that lead into one of the numerous trails that made up her part of the forest, Aslan huffed, jumping over a fallen tree stump with ease. Riding through the forest, Ava finally pulled on the reins, causing Aslan to ease to a stop. ::

"Good boy."

:: Smiling as she gently patted the side of his neck, Ava stung her leg off of her horse, jumping off. Aslan made his way over to the large watering hole and began to drink the crystal clear waters. Walking with bare feet, the plush green grass squished between her toes as Ava made her way to a bed of rocks that damned off the water hole from the river. Pulling off her tank top and undoing the draw string from her shorts, she tossed them aside, now standing in a simple black halter styled bikini. Diving into the water, Aslan stopped drinking for a moment, looking at Ava as she surfaced to the top. ::

"This is heaven...absolute heaven."

:: Slicking her wet hair back, Ava continued to swim around the luke warm waters, soaking in the gorgeous day. ::

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas and Mike made their way to their own little part of Aerie, complete with a freshwater lake that slowly made its way to the sea. This environment fit them perfectly, and they were able to find a clearing appropriate at the water's edge to build. The house consisted of a personal wing for each of them and a very adaptable large middle section designed for parties or meetings or training if need be.

It was well-attended, and very eco-friendly, made from pressed earth and other natural materials designed to be comfortable no matter the weather. The place was still state of the art, but designed to be extremely energy-efficient, especially considering its solar power source. The middle area had a pool, sauna, and rooms for receiving guests as well as spare guest quarters.

Once they were satisfied with the place, Mike and Nicolas worked on another project. Mike had always been a bodyguard and assistant. Special weaponry would have attracted unwanted attention. That was no longer a problem, and now Nicolas wanted to focus on Mike's survivability in combat. To this end he designed a combat suit for him, that would give protection and he "appropriated " upgraded weaponry for him as needed. But it was not enough. He would need the help of a technopath. To that end, Mike and Nicolas came to Haleigh's waterfall compound. Nicolas located her and spoke telepathically, linking Mike as well so that he could participate while they waited for the mutant to show.

Hey lady. We came to say hello and to ask a favor, since we see you have time on your hands...

 

[Black Widow]

As Mike and Nicolas came upon Haleigh's compound, the barking of a trio of dogs could be heard.... and moments later, a full size Great Dane came bounding out of jungle cover, followed closely by a Blue Doberman and a brindle Boxer.... they were easily recognizable as Haleigh's pets and they instantly identified both of the guys and began to bombard them for attention. Haleigh emerged a few seconds later, promenading nonchalantly.

The new arrangement, semi-ostracized or not, seemed to be agreeing with the hybrid. She wore only a slightly transparent off-white cotton v-necked shirt that was a little loose-fitting and matching [though form-fitting] short shorts with cargo style pockets, with sandals that cross-tied over her feet and around her ankles, and there was a warm demeanor in her smile as she saw them.

"Hello Boys..... this is a pleasant surprise. [in response to Nicolas' request] A favor, hmm? Well.... I just built a floating gazebo in the canopy, off the waterfall cliff.... spectacular view overlooking the jungle and the ocean.... we can discuss this there over drinks."

She offered, urging the dogs to leave them and go play amongst themselves before guiding the two gentlemen up a slightly steep bamboo staircase that closely trimmed the waterfall.... to the waiting gazebo. She was very much a picturesque vacationer, exposed to a slight breeze that windswept her blond curls and caused her shirt to cling to her body, revealing her form as she pointed out a pair of spider monkies that were 30 feet away in the treetops, passing them each a pair of binoculars so that they could see with the same detail her enhanced eyes could. She made the drinks they requested, making a simple yet tastily effective Tequila Sunrise for herself, and motioned for them to sit as she lit the eight citronella torches that surrounded the gazebo, offering them flickering firelight and protection from insects...

"Now.... what brings you gentlemen to this little patch of paradise?"

 

[Persephone]

:: The full moon peaked through the tree tops, casting a wonderful light right on the swimming hole Ava was in. The night was warm and clear; the sky filled with clusters of shinning stars. Floating on her back, Ava looked up at the sky feeling like she was back in ancient Greece...the sky looking untouched by light and polution. Closing her eyes for a few moments, Aslan's startled nay, followed by what sounded like rocks falling on the grass, caused Ava to open her eyes and look over. Laughing to herself, seeing a dozen apples laying around Aslan, he had tried to pull one off the apple tree and caused a bunch to fall on him. ::

"You're enjoying this night as much as I am, aren't you?"

:: Aslan looked up at her, munching on an apple, almost as if to say, 'damn straight i am!' ::

"I'll take that as a yes."

:: Dunking herself under the water, Ava swam to the rocks where her clothing laid and surfaced. Pulling the strings of her top, she lifted it over her head and tossed it onto the rock. Removing her bottoms as well, Ava dove under the water, resurfacing soon after. ::

"And to think, CIRCE of all people, claimed this island for centuries...I feel so at home here; moreso than I ever have really."

:: Continuing to swim around, it had been quite a long time since the goddess had enjoyed a nights swim...she was soaking it up for all it was worth. ::

 

[Rampage]

As Haleigh emerged, both men nodded in appreciation of how well the last few weeks had been to her. They followed her to the gazebo where Nicolas relaxed with a Screwdriver while Mike went for whiskey on the rocks. They were equally unclothed, spending their time simply in shorts and choosing bare feet for the most part. Nicolas sat up a bit as Haleigh asked what favor they needed, but Mike motioned for him to relax as HE spoke instead. Things DEFINITELY were different now...

Haleigh, you are the best of the best, and so I basically was hoping you would be willing to help me. As the only human left of our group, I do not wish to be a liability in terms of combat. To that end I was hoping you would train me to be even better in combat and recon. We could work out whenever you wished either here or at our compound. In addition...

Nicolas chimed in quickly, finishing the presentation as if they were twins.

I have been working on a combat suit for Mike, similar to the leather combat suits we often wore from the War Room. However, this suit would have enhancements that would help him in terms of survivability and effectiveness. I have already made a small-arms bulletproof addition and helped the suit reduce force exerted against it. What I need now can only be made by a technopath such as yourself. I was hoping to give it some stealth ability based on the hard light manipulation you used in the Danger room as well as a complement of nano-servomotor actuators at major muscle groups. My calculations say we can quadruple Mike's strength without adding bulk, massive weight or energy strain to the system. I was thinking that this would help him be harder to target and make it easier for him to move when WE do. I am sending you my base schematic telepathically now. I am sure you could improve it on it. What do you think? Will you help us?

Nicolas and Mike put on their most charming smiles, waiting for the lovely lady to see their idea and think things over...

 

[Black Widow]

It seemed they were all on vacation... and no longer forced to bear the weight of the world on their shoulders. Nicolas and Mike looked equally well-rested and while Haleigh usually veiled her attraction for the men [since they were both spoken for], she was not ashamed to give them both a good once over. Like Demeter had previously said.... there was no harm in looking.... and these two bare-chested men offered plenty to look at.... and Haleigh continued to smile as she handed them their drinks and they settled into reclined, comfortable outdoor chairs. Haleigh gazed out, taking in the view. The moonlight shone over the cascade of jungle below them, and subsequently, over the ocean. It was a beautifully clear night, boasting more stars than could have ever been seen in New York city, primarily because on the island they were far removed from the nightlights of any metropolis.

Haleigh, you are the best of the best, and so I basically was hoping you would be willing to help me--

"Yes, that's right, now kiss me on both cheeks and tell me I'm pretty!" She interjected, then laughed, finishing with a contented sigh. "I'm sorry, I had to... I hardly ever get any praise anymore. Please, go on."

Haleigh sipped her cocktail as Mike and Nicolas explained their request. It was well thought out and Haleigh appreciated Mike's desire to better himself.... he was the only human left among them and Haleigh knew that must be difficult for him.... after all, it had been so hard on Alycia that the woman had LEFT them to become an Amazon.

"Well.... it would certainly benefit the team as a whole..... I'll see what can be done. I'm sure we can perfect a suit that is exceptional in both form AND function.... and while I'm not sure how far we can push the limit of Mike's strength.... if you [Mike] are willing to try with me, I'd be happy to experiment."

 

[Rampage]

Haleigh was happy to be asked, flirting and smiling as she listened. Mike was happy to make inroads with the woman. She was tough, he respected the hell out of her and she was DAMNED easy on the eyes. Mike blew her two kisses and responded to her, laughing good-naturedly.

Madame, you are INDEED quite pretty!! I would be happy to start work tomorrow, you name the location. All of this lounging and sun has turned my 8-pack into a six, and I am ready to work HARD, especially if you promise to dress like THIS.

Mike was settling in nicely, shedding his role of simply being "on the job". His burden was two-fold in that he had no powers AND no real status other than "Nicolas' friend or Karen's man". He wanted to get on a good footing with everyone, develop a relationship with them all. That was there with Karen and Morgan, but their was a damn sight more to the team than those two, even if they were quite important to the pair of men.

*******************************

Nicolas sat back and watched the pair interact, allowing his mind to wander as they bantered. He was relaxed and felt good about were things were, except for ONE thing. Half of the team can't STAND the other half. Oh well, a problem for another night. For right now, he would lounge around as a guest of Haleigh's, taking in the sight of a beautiful starry sky and a choice set of tits.

Haleigh, now that's settled, maybe you could give me pointer or two as well. I can't simply lurch around on strength alone, and you would be the first trainer I have had in years who can spar with me and walk afterwards. Besides, I have been waiting to give you a good spanking. <<Laughs>> Seriously, I will make lunch after we go through some paces, work on some things, and you can relax overlooking MY body of water tomorrow as I serve YOU.

 

[Persephone]

:: Backstroking to one of the rocks that lined the water hole, Ava turned around and placed both forearms on the flat stone and rested her chin on top. Closing her eyes, the water began to increase in heat until it started to bubble, the goddess creating a natural hot spring. Sighing out in pure relaxation, it really did feel like a never ending vacation on this island. ::

James: "Enjoying yourself?"

:: Opening her eyes, Ava smiled seeing James Broslin her oldest and closest friend approaching. The six had met him before at Madonna's breast cancer awareness charity event, and they had all hit it off well...but considering they were supposed to be 'dead' to the rest of the world and hiding on this island, Ava made it a point to hide the fact that she had brought him here. It wasn't planned...she began to miss him, and knew he would be devestated about her 'death'. She needed to tell him she was alright and in hiding. She wanted to say goodbye...to close the last chapter in her old life. But one thing led to another...and here they were now, sneeking around like two teenagers. She knew Morgan and Karen would be PISSED if they found out he was here, but that made it even more exciting. Ava trusted James wholeheartedly, and knew he would never say anything about her and the six once he did return, so she wasn't too worried about Morgan's pending reaction IF she did happen to find out. ::

"I thought you were sleeping? [pushing herself away from the rock, she kept her body submerged as she looked up at James] I was, but I woke and saw you weren't in bed and I became worried. [Ava smirked] We're on an island with six other people...i'm not in any danger. [Taking his shirt off, James stepped nearer to the water] Well...I was concerned about the critters wondering around here. [Watching as he slipped his pajama bottoms off, Ava grinned] I control those 'critters', remember? [James finally slipped into the water, swimming over to Ava] You're really making it tough for me to be chivalrous."

:: Laughing softly, Ava wrapped her arms around James' neck, kissing him passionately. Steam rose from the bubbling water, creating a misty fog around the surrounding area....whether it was natural, or Ava's doing, the two were 'hidden' from sight for the rest of the evening...not that anyone was around anyhow. ::

 

[Black Widow]

"Well, it was just a joke, i didn't need the validation, but I appreciate it all the same. We can do your training here, I have a combat room that is loosely based on the Danger Room, albeit a bit smaller scale. It'll meet our needs quite specifically."

Haleigh laughed with Mike as he complemented her, then punched him playfully as he commented on her clothing.

"I'll have you KNOW.... it took me days to find just the right apparel. This happens to be VERY suitable for the climate. I spend a lot of time in the elements and this fabric is breathable and light... and most importantly, it's COMFORTABLE..... it's almost like not wearing anything at all."

Nicolas requesting that Haleigh spar with him as well, in a way, to help knock off the rust and fine tune, and Haleigh was always happy to practice.

"Alright, alright... but you'd better be careful with all that talk of spanking.... you know I've been cooped up on this island for far too long, sans a man to keep me happy.... a girl gets lonely, and far worse.... her needs go unattended.... I'm afraid I'm far too easily excited these days and the temptation is nigh too much to withstand. You shouldn't tease me."

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Mother and Daughter

<< Karen joined her daughter in the marble hallway of the rotunda. Wearing another version of her flying suit, this one with subtle green accents in the bodice and the underside of the cape. this flying suit also bosted a surprisingly playfull peak of cleavage. The doctor was a woman, a woman with a fantastic body that would put some of her younger counterparts to shame and something about living in the rotunda made by her and her daughter feel a little more like "royalty" >>

<< as the waves and the wind continued to play their natural symphony, Karen stood with her daughter in a large observatory.>>

lovely place, isnt it? our own piece of greek antiquity.

<< the gave tinker a gentle rub under her chin as the siamese thoroughly enjoyed the extra attention.>>

Morgan: i used to have dreams about bring a queen in my own castle. I know i have a castle in Limbo...but i didnt make that...I "inherited" it ...i "inherited" this too...but part of me is excited to be here...this is the place that Circe caused all her chaos from and now...it's all ours.

Karen: yes....the island is lovely. so much expanse on all sides. a world within a world. It's unfortunate, however that we must share it with that wretched child, Davidoff.

Morgan: << her scowl tightened at the mention of Haleigh.>> well...at least we don't have to SEE her right now. I'm tired of having to REMIND myself of why she "MIGHT" be acting like a total jackass. there isnt a therapist in this world who could rehabiliate the nuclear waste zone that is her mind.

<< thunder rumbled in the air all around the island...a sign that the demon sorceress' anger was GROWING.>>

Karen: She is damaged, and more than a little sociopathic, that much is clear.

Morgan: it's almost like a it was a YEAR ago. everyone wants to be sympathetic to HER...and make ME out to be the bad girl because i'm not afraid to check her for the shit that she pulls. was i REALLY expected to let her verbally abuse Alycia OR to get in your face? If think so...they can KICK ROCKS!

Karen: I imagine that THEY have delusions of being high minded mediators. I thought the same thing when dealing with Haleigh a while back, but now i realize that she's nothing like Blaze. Blaze will LISTEN and at some point she WOULD come around. Haleigh will rush head long into OBLIVION if she thinks its the right thing to do , no matter WHAT you tell her.

<< sweeping her cape behind her as the two women walked out through one of the door ways into the night air, they stood on a marble "stage" overlooking a large expanse of land with the ocean in the background. the wind was just right as it blew through their hair and over their skin.>>

Karen: I personally want nothing to do with her. EVER. She's a loose cannon that can't be trusted.

Morgan: Don't worry. she understands that if she even LOOKS like she's going to harm you...I'll KILL HER . If I wouldnt let Christopher do anything...what in the hell makes her think SHE's any different?

<< silence. the mother and daughter witch duo had become colder these last few weeks. and it showed.>>


Karen: Nicolas and Mike are at Haleigh's now. << folding her arms>> I'm not quite thrilled about that. She has a degenerative influence and if it seems like Mike is succumbing to it, I'll have to dismiss him.

Morgan: I don't quite know what to think of him. he was so besotted with Ava...and then he came to you. He SEEMS genuine but he's just like Nicolas...he flirts with EVERYONE in a skirt. It's time like this when I wish I could still see Boris. at least HE only had eyes for ME instead of every Jane, Sally and Susie around town.

Karen: and now, on this island...we have to worry about HER impacting our personal lives as well. Will she EVER get a clue and learn how to show regard for others?

<< Mike and Nicolas didnt know it yet...but their steady time speant with Haleigh was about to earn them a world of grief from the pair of witches.>>

Morgan: forget them. I almost wish I was the one who went to Themyscria. at least THERE , there'd be no competition. we wouldnt HAVE to wonder if we could trust.

no competition...trust

<< what was upsetting Morgan more than anything was the fact that she was no longer apart of the FASHION WORLD. fashion and style were her LIFE for so many years..and now that was gone. she was no longer the "most celebrated super model in the world"...no longer the object of affection/adoration/envy, cut off from her many celebrity friends...>>

Morgan: I'll dump Nicolas before i even THINK I'm in "competition" with someone like HER.

 

[Harbinger]

surprise!

::Laughing softly, Ava wrapped her arms around James' neck, kissing him passionately. Steam rose from the bubbling water, creating a misty fog around the surrounding area....whether it was natural, or Ava's doing, the two were 'hidden' from sight for the rest of the evening...not that anyone was around anyhow.::

:: she THOUGHT she was hidden from view.::

:: Alison had decided to return to Aerie to see Karen and Morgan...it was one of thsoe evenings where she had absolutely nothing to do and Pandora was already fast asleep. on her way, she discerned that Ava was VIOLATING the terms of residing on this island by having an outsider...a MORTAL outside of the circle of the six. Was this HALEIGH'S influnence?? ::

:: and so, the seer's floating cobalt blue eyes appear, overlooking them but not being seen BY them.::

my my...someone is being a TROLLOP this evening.

:: the sound of a woman clearing her throat in the air could be heard...but no one could be SEEN...she did this deliberatly::

 

[Rampage]

As Mike and Nicolas sat and joked with Haleigh, having an INNOCENTLY good time, thunder could be heard in the distance. Nicolas knew that there was no rain planned, so it could only be ONE thing. He looked knowingly to Mike, and they both stood.

We have had a great time, but we must take our leave. See you tomorrow, Hales.

Mike also said his goodbyes as Nicolas planned how to next move quickly where they needed to go. They walked a bit off intop the distance, then Nicolas telekinetically picked Miked up, and held onto him with his mind as he leaped into the islands interior...

landing on a balcony of Morgan and Karen's castle. During flight, Nicolas changed their clothing to light linen suits and proper matching shoes, Nicolas in cream and Mike in a light mint color.

Nicolas walked quickly with Mike to the interior where he had already located the pair of women. Nicolas walked up to the demon sorceress and spoke first.

I heard your anger clear across the island. What's the matter?

 

[Spellbinder]

the rotunda

<<Morgan held Tinker close. the siamese was still getting used to the windy weather and didnt quite care for it. Morgan nuzzled her in reassurance as Karen gently rubbed the cat's back.>>

where's the kitten?

Karen: she's laying by the fire in study.

<< Morgan nodded.>>

*sigh*

Mother....I feel LOST! I'm on this beautifull island, and hardly happy...i love the rotunda. the island...the history of it...even knowing that Circe CREATED this island...it kind of reminds me of Limbo and Ororo's garden...there's much that I have yet to see around here...

<< stepping forward toward the marble stairs. Nicolas arrived with Mike. She didnt look at him right away.>>

I'm feeling boxed in.

<< looking up at the stars.>>

I can't figure out what to do next and it's driving me crazy. without the world of fashion...i feel without a purpose. I can TAKE not being a super heroine. i never wanted to be one....especially in defense of the same ungratefull trash that tried to KILL us...but i don't know what to do now.

<< her tone of voice said it all. she truly was at a loss.>>

and don't tell me you rushed all the way from Linda Hamilton's house just to check on ME. I'm a big girl...I can take care of myself.

<< being a bit catty with Nicolas now she paused for a moment.>>

We knew where you were and just so you know...it's HER we dont trust.

<< the coldness in her voice was evident.>>

I don't like her....in fact...If I see her anytime soon...I'm going to HIT her. I'm TIRED of her attacking my friends and family. I'm tired of us having to WONDER when she's going to revel in one of her maladaptive fits. and she's going to LEARN even if i have to BEAT it into her that its NOT okay to hurt people in the name of "hiding your feelings". She's left such a BAD taste in my mouth that I've had a hard time even going to see Delilah...whom she was DEFENDING. Delilah was MY friend LONG before Haleigh darkened our doorstep. OUR problems shouldve been OURS to resolve and haleigh should've kept her robotic trap SHUT. how DARE she speak to my mother the way she did!

<< morgan shrieked.>>

Delilah was out of order and we expressed that...as was our RIGHT. we wouldve worked through it with Delilah...but we were HURT and ANGRY and it seemed like SHE didnt care. We didnt need Haleigh butting in...like SHE knows ANYTHING about being DECENT. Like SHE knows ANYTHING about appreciating TRUST and consideration of other's feelings!

Athena, Hecate, myself, Alison and my mother were ALL ready to tear her limb from limb and i BET she's acting like NOTHING ever happened...like she ALWAYS does.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

the rotunda

<< Karen turned and looked up to see Nicolas and Mike arriving. how FORTUITOUS of them to arrive NOW. she kept her arms folded, still wearing her modified flying suit took a moment to casually inspect a large plant bed near the marble steps.>>

the flora is lush...even the plants designed into the rotunda's decor flurish without much water thanks to the magick that flows through here.

<< she knew Mike was with Nicolas. she looked up after deliberately delaying a response. her eyes fixed upon the young man.>>

Mike.

<< she says with elegant disdain.>>

we havent seen much of you or anyone else for that matter in the rotunda. clearly this is the centerpiece of the island...I'd love to show you on a tour.

<< her discreet way of making for alone time with the young man so they could talk more candidly while Morgan talked with Nicolas. She did not need to "interfere" with Morgan and Morgan would not do that with her...unless it was absolutely necessary.>>

<< Karen always believed in doing things as gracefully as she could but with so much having happened and everyone still recovering and the doctor being ESPECIALLY angry with Haleigh...it was clear to see the signs of anger across her elegant face, especially her eyes which were KNOWN to convey such disdain REGULARLY.>>

<< leading the way through another entrance of the large rounded castle, Karen's high heels echoed on them marble floor as the winds now whispered in various chambers and now that they were alone...>>

I'm not going to "pretend" to be fond of you dealing with that rogue, Haleigh. She's a degenerate from start to finish.

My concern is that she will have an undue influence on you...

<< she thought about Malice and Christopher. She thought about Cameron and how Haleigh fed and BOLSTERED his MONUMENTAL ASSHOLE presentation.>>

and only an undesireable personality type would be able to mesh well with someone like her.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas listened as Karen artfully took Mike off so everyone could have privacy. He listened to what Morgan said, how she felt, and he simply took a moment to take it all in before exhaling, then responding.

I did not come here because you were incapable of taking care of yourself. We both already know that. As far as HALEIGH is concerned, she has NEVER shown a lack of respect for our relationship. In that regard she has been always respectful AS HAVE I. If you believe that I am too flirtatious or if you truly feel that you have something about which to be concerned, speak with me about it.

As for how she spoke to everyone, all of us are alpha individuals. No one here censors themselves if they believe something needs to be said. Haleigh is no exception. Ma has said some tough things to her as well, and Haleigh's response had to be expected, even by you. Hitting her will solve nothing and, given our situation, will make a testy situation worse. I am not saying you should have no quarrel with her, but I AM saying that she deserves the same forgiveness and understanding IN TIME that you have been willing to extend to Delilah. After all, she has ALWAYS stood with you.

But I am not here to talk about Haleigh. I am here for you, to see YOU. You two have yet to visit our new place, you stay here in this rotunda fuming about Haleigh, and then you treat me as if I am being wrong to you. If anything, maybe I should wonder how you still feel about me. I cannot replace the life you lost, but I thought you believed that I made your life better, that you would at least be happy to see me. Sharing an island paradise with a supermodel girlfriend is supposed to be A LOT more fun than this. Can't you simply enjoy being with me?

As Nicolas looked at Morgan, she could see he was disappointed, even hurt. He reached out to hold her...


**************************

As Karen walked with Mike down the hallway to another area, ho took a look at her. The island was agreeing with her, and she looked beautiful. As she turned to face him, he placed a hand upon her hip, lightly holding her.

He listened intently as she spoke. They never had to say much to get their feelings across. In fact, now was probably the most he would say to her at one time.

Now Karen, I understand that you two have had a long-standing quarrel. But you know that I am my own man, and no one is going to "influence" me in such a manner. I am not a piece of clay, to be manipulated and re-shaped. And even if I manage to get along with her, that is not a amark on my character. You know the man that I am. You know that our true relationship came to the fore in the days and NIGHTS we spent together in the past few weeks. The truth is, I MISS you. You and Morgan went into this big old house while me and Nic worked out a new place on our own. You did not visit and it seems that abscence did not make the heart grow fonder for you. I am here to tell you, it did for me. Let's not argue tonight. I want to enjoy spending time with you. You look beautiful, and I came to enjoy your prescence.

Mike stepped forward and encircled Karen in his arms, looking into her eyes...

 

[Spellbinder]

on the steps of the rotunda

<< Morgan stood in her "elvira" like dress and looked upon Nicolas. had it been that long? had she AND her mother been so lost in their bitterness toward haleigh that they both slipped into a "mode" of sorts? >>

<< Nicolas seemed visibly disappointed and hurt and that took Morgan aback. but Tinkerbell seemed to know just what to do as Nicolas asked Morgan could she not enjoy HIM more...Tinker reached over and gave Nicolas a little, light "kiss" on his hand with her tongue...and Morgan looked down at her enchanted familiar, her glare melted into a softer look.>>

Nicolas...

<< she said as the waves crashed she moved closer to him>>

I guess I havent been handling this very well. I used to have a purpose...a FOCUS. my work at Illustra would serve as a much needed distracation from EVERYTHING personal...and now i dont have that. all i have is time...and its not like in Limbo where TIME doesnt apply the same way.

Losing something that i felt DEFEND me has left me feeling like a BLANK SLATE in someways...i walk around the halls and chambers of the rotunda...in a daze. some days my mother and I dont even see each other and we're in the same castle.

i havent seen you and my mom hasnt seen mike in a while...we were upset that you were working with haleigh as you developed your houses...and we didnt want to risk being violent with her. we're also trying to respect ava...that IS her sister. in fact I show AVA more respect for that then Haleigh shows my mother. do you SEE the way that woman talks to my mother?? and the way she ABUSED Alycia?

<< Rampage points out that Karen was just as harsh against Haleigh and Delilah. Morgan realized that...but it was something about HALEIGH speaking to karen that way...Morgan was VERY protective of her mother. Morgan felt her blood boiling AGAIN but Nicolas reminds her that he didnt come to talk a bout Haleigh...that they had not seen each other in over a week and that was a bad thing.>>

<<sigh>>

<< looking at Tinker who appreciated being shielded from the wind by both of them now....Morgan smiled a bit looking back up at Nicolas.>>

i apologize...for being so unavailable in more than one way. i'm really not handling this well, im just pretending.

I AM happy to see you. the last time we were on this Isle, Circe left me for dead and was about to destroy you all...and now her rotunda belongs to ME...this beautifull architecual jewel that mythology buffs have often talked about. I should be happy to have this place, along with you, my mother, my friends...

<< tinker made a small noise.>>

and yes, you too baby.

I'm just out of focus and i need to get it back.

<< she lays her head on Nicolas' chest. He can feel her heart beat and Tinker purrring too. >>

I'm just a mess right now...