Wish upon a Siege Perilous

[Firebird]

Collision at the press conference

It was all flowing so well! Despite her own distress over Morg, she was carrying on. She could ALWAYS do that! She was a survivor. She came from a timeline that most of these selfish, self absorbed hypocrites in this timeline wouldn't have survived. But she was still seriously disturbed. It went BEYOND Morgan's absence. Only Nicolas, Cameron and Karen were beginning to realize the depth of how serious this disturbance was and thanks to Harbinger, Nicolas and Cameron now had an indication of how it would manifest, when they would need to ACT.


But right now, in front of her? After answering a slew of questions about the Truth or Dare line, as well as Morgan's absence and ensuring everything was well and in order... ANOTHER a disturbance was manifesting itself in the form of a pushy, yet CURIOUSLY savvy reporter from what Sally Spectra scathingly referred to as a "tabloid RAG" called TEMPO! The same magazine that had attempted to OUT Morgan Victoria as a "broom riding, spell casting, couldron stirring WITCH!" several years earlier!


"Yes, what is your question?"

:: he spoke with an off putting, "COMMON" british accent::

Miss Victory? Or is it Miss Fielding?

Blaze's apple green eyes FLASHED with surprise as she fixed her gaze on this tall, lanky looking middle aged man who clearly thrived on causing conflict.

"Mr. Barker,"

She said with a tone that indicated she and House of Spectra in general were well familiar with him and his provocative behavior/questions during press time.


"Do you have a question RELEVANT to Truth or Dare?"

Blaze asked, unshaken and attempting to keep things on course as she continued to lock eyes with Nigel.

The subtle buzzing of the press grew silent for a moment as they seemed to pause at the sudden change of tone in the room thanks to Nigel.

Nigel: My question is relevant, Miss Victory...Miss FIELDING? You ARE acting CEO in Morgan VICTORIA's absense are you not? VICTORY, VICTORIA?

The press began to focus in on the stand off between Nigel and Blaze.

"That's right, I AM acting CEO in Morgan's absence and my NAME is hardly a mystery to anyone in this room."

Nigel: But YOU are. All public records indicate that Blaze Fielding is supposed to be DEAD. Yet here YOU are. Yet no one can confirm if YOU ARE Blaze Fielding.

He produces a PICTURE of BLAZE FIELDING.

The SIGHT of HER STABS FIREBIRD in her HEART as she remains stone faced...not blinking as she looks with unwavering glare at "HERSELF!" for the first time since she'd arrived HERE in this time. She doesnt crack...but she SWALLOWS HARD. The press collective gasps.

Nigel: Your last name is MUCH more similar to Morgans and YOU look more like Morgan than the woman in THIS PICTURE.

The mood in the room is becoming restless. Flashbulbs start snapping and popping off in rapid succession now, only they are not on the models, they are on BLAZE VICTORY, FIREBIRD!

Blaze narrows her apple green eyes as she GLARES at Nigel. She could render him into nothing but a pile ASH with a wave of her hand!

"DAMN YOU, Morgan! DAMN YOU and the rest of your selfish, hypocrite team members!"

FLASH!

Minerva's Mansion, the night before. The conversation between Nicolas and Alison

:: gesturing with a hand, wind and chimes aound off as darkly glowing orbs swirl in the space between Nicolas and Alison::

:: Soon two images can be seen. Foxfire and Firebird::


:: Seeing them side by side like this, for the FIRST TIME (surprising as THAT was), Nicolas realized that even HE had forgotten the subtle but key differences between the two, it was beyond their looks.::

Who do you see? Blaze Fielding? Blaze Victory? Which one is which?

WELL!?

:: Nicolas was taken aback by Alison's FORCEFUL press of the question::

Do you know?

Imagine how SHE must feel?

She hadnt been aware of their conversation. But right now, It was as if a hot dagger had just been stabbed into her heart, the center of her being. This skinny scumbag of a man was practically INTERROGATING her for being WHO SHE IS? But that was just it! WHO WAS SHE?! He was basically telling her what she was already feeling more and more, what people like Delilah and even Morgan and Alison had helped to exacerbate with their behavior and actions...SHE WASNT SUPPOSED TO BE HERE!

FLASH!

Minerva's mansion, the night before. That same conversation between Nicolas and Alison about BLAZE.

You've ALL remarked on "how much more POWERFULL she is than Foxfire" and we haven't even SEEN the full scope of her elemental power.

You've all remarked on how much more GLAMOROUS she is. As if SHE were the more natural MATCH for Spellbinder than her own MAINSTREAM sister.

In one way...it can be taken as a compliment, but in another, far more deep way, it has given her pause and caused her to be filled with doubt.

She wonders just WHY we havent told her MORE about her own "alternate." she knows NOTHING about Foxfire's life and ROLE on this earth and has not been able to ASSUME any part of THAT Blaze's life for her OWN and she NEEDS that.

We're ALL to blame for not telling her more. It was an oversight, due to one crisis after another rearing its head. But the need still remains.

She wonders if SHE is doomed to become as much of an "AFTERTHOUGHT" as Foxfire seems to be...at least how it appears to HER. Her conversation with Delilah did nothing to help that either, by the way.

"I dont need this! I DON'T HAVE TO TAKE THIS! Not from him...not from THEM! I didn't come here for this BULLSHIT!"

She grips the podium more and more tightly....causing it to tremble and STRAIN under the growing pressure she's exerting. Firebird is physically STRONGER than Foxfire and if she's not careful, she'll CRACK it soon but at the moment, her emotions are swelling to a BOILING point.

"Mr. BARKER."

She says in a pointed tone.

"This is NOT Jerry Springer or some other tabloid topic event. This is a media event for TRUTH. OR. DARE. If you don't have any relevant questions and you can't conduct yourself with SOME sense of decorum, which i realize for ANY agent of TEMPO MAGAZINE, would be a MIRACLE, then you can LEAVE."

Nigel: You're avoiding MY questions, Miss VICTORY...or is that MISS FIELDING. Did you know that faking your death is a FEDERAL OFFENSE? WE ALL know about Morgan Victoria! She's a WITCH! Blaze Fielding was a MUTANT! SO WHAT DOES THAT MAKE YOU? WHO ARE YOU?

Blaze looks at Nigel with astonishment, then with a flash in her apple green eyes....ANGER!

But before she could COMPLETELY blow her stack and possibly hurt herself, since she STILL more of the credibility on her side by maintaining composure...or do WORSE to Nigel...

 

[Sally Spectra]

Cut!

::Sally had seen and heard enough. TODAY she'd put in an executive order to ALL divisions of House of Spectra, TEMPO MAGAZINE would be BANNED from anymore press events and she'd see to it PERSONALLY that Nigel Barker had his press credentials scrutinized and HE himself run out of town. But for now...::

Alright, that's ENOUGH.

:: her contralto voice boomed with NO room for second guessing as she stood up and immediately went to Blaze's side, wrapping one arm around the fire elemental for support and holding out her other hand, waving it in front of herself and Blaze to ruin any further shots from cameras::

This press conference is officially OVER!?

Security? GET THAT SKINNY LITTLE WORM OUT OF MY SIGHT! Out of SPECTRA and OFF the premesis.

You'll REGRET this Blaze, YOU TOO SALLY!

I already REGRET not paying somebody to go KICK YOUR TEETH IN MONTHS AGO you loud mouth BEAN POLE! now GET OUT!

::Sally commands with a thundering tone as she stands with Blaze, her OWN fiery temper was NOTHING anyone wanted to see. As sweet and charming as she was? She didnt get where she was currently to by being weak, meek or a doormat and Sally Spectra could be as tough and deadly as any FOE the Six had crossed. When it came to protecting her interests, her company, her company FAMILY? She was a TRUE Mama Bear!::

::Security and related staff CLEARED out the press room QUICKLY. Once the press was out of sight, Sally looks to her personal body guard.::

Get Stephano on the line and tell him to intercept Nigel Barker before he can make it to the Santa Monica freeway. I want his equipment confiscated and i want ANY information he took today to be DESTROYED, do you understand me? You tell them if he wants to REMAIN HEALTHY and PHYSICALLY IN TACT that he better not say ONE MORE WORD about BLAZE, MORGAN OR THIS COMPANY! If he tries to resist? Leave him black and blue.

::Johnny understood and nodded silently. NORMALLY Sally would have had NICOLAS deal with Nigel. But since he was absent, Sally would have to handle this her own way, a way she'd resorted to before in times past when necessary. She may have been "only human" but she was not without her own effective resources. ::

Blaze?

:: Blaze looked like she was transfixed, she wasnt moving or responding. Sally looked into Blaze's eyes and snapped her fingers before shaking her a bit::

BLAZE!

FINALLY her apple green eyes BLINK a few times as she snaps out of her moment of shock and dismay, registering Sally.

"...Sally! I....

SHHHHH! Don't you worry about a THING, honey! You handled yourself VERY well. Nigel is just a worm who shouldve been wriggling on the end of a fisherman's HOOK long ago. I'LL handle HIM!


You come on with me. We're going back to Morgan's office so you can cool off.

The press conference is OVER and we got what we needed done!

See?

::Holding up Blaze's Ipad AIR.::

Orders from buyers in some of our best markets are already coming in. We're already past the 35 million dollar mark! I expect by the end of business todayyyy, we'll be at the 100 million mark! That's all that matters!

::And with that, Sally walks with Blaze, her arm still wrapped around the girl and holding her close for support.::

::The representative from Zenith, who witnessed everything, including Nigel's shocking, inappropriate and invasive AMBUSH of Blaze Victory at the end of the press conference got an eye/earfull as well as documenting it. She would deliver this back to Cameron King, who along with Nicolas, was completely unaware of what had occurred.::

 

[Ruby]

After-Dark / Melrose Place - Apt. 6

:: Cass was behind the bar on the main level of After-Dark. She was busy cleaning, counting bottles of wine and beer to see what was needed and humming along to the radio. The club was quiet, save for a few people working in the employee only section. She didn’t HAVE to be here, there were other people for this, but she wanted to be here. She felt like she was neglecting the club – in HER eyes – and so she wanted to come by and help out. Besides, she had to be here so Bryan didn’t get too excited over his newest promotion of Assistant Manager and start to lord it over anyone who would listen…and even those who wouldn’t. She sighed as she picked up a box of empties and carried it through the back and out to her car. ::

:: Usually they’d just recycle them, but Cass had heard of a place in a nearby canyon by Melrose Place nicknamed “the Glasslands” named after the various grasslands all around the world. This place was sectioned off by local authorities as teenagers and drunks usually threw their empty bottles over the side of the canyon. Though they had tried to clean up, the effort was futile and so, the “Glasslands” were born. Cass thought that she’d take Blaze up there where they could just let go of their pent-up emotions and take them out on some bottles without harming other people. Though she appeared not to care about anything or anyone, Cass had noticed Blaze’s eyes cloud up at the mention of her sister’s name. She was kind of worried about the red-haired beauty. She and Blaze had sort of formed a new friendship, at least in Cass’ eyes, at the party on Aerie and Cass was looking forward to getting to know her better in the near future. But she’d suggest it some other time. Sharon had left a voicemail on her phone telling her that Nicolas would be visiting sometime and that she should be NICE. She shook her head as she closed the car door. ::

*mutters*: “I’m ALWAYS nice…”

:: She headed back inside the club to grab another box. On her way in, Bryan accosted her. ::

Bryan: “So will you grace us all with your presence tonight, Boss Lady?”

:: Cass sighed. She WANTED to be there tonight, but the truth was that she really didn’t know. Things have been so crazy lately what with trying to find a balance between the Six and managing the hottest club around. ::

“I don’t know, Bry. I WANT to be here, really I do, but the truth is that I just don’t know.”

Bryan: *nods*: “Okay, Cassie. Rest assured that AD is in my very capable hands.”

*teasingly*: “Oh no! Maybe I SHOULD be here…”

:: Cass laughed as Bryan playfully swatted her on the shoulder. She was still laughing as she entered the main part of the club. She had a big smile on her face. All of a sudden, she knew that everything would be okay. She went over to the bar, picked up the last box and headed for her car. She stopped at her office to sign some paperwork Bryan had left for her and then headed for the employees door. ::

“Okay, I am out of here!”

:: Bryan peeked out of his office and waved. Cass nodded back in acknowledgement and headed for her car. She placed the box beside the other three boxes and shut the door. She opened the driver’s seat door and climbed in, starting the car and slowly backing out of her spot. She merged with the traffic and stopped at the Baja Fresh Mexican Grill to get herself a Burrito Mexicana and then headed home to Melrose Place. ::

:: As she neared MP, she thought she heard a helicopter. ::

But that wouldn’t make sense. There isn’t any place for one to land.

:: She pulled into her parking spot and got out, taking her food and bag with her. Shutting the car door and locking it, she went into her apartment. ::

 

[Prophet]

The Zenith Group Executive Offices - Wallstreet

Well it didn't take very long for Ava to accept his offer and that made him very happy. He knew that she would knock something like this out of the park and he was happy that he was able to offer such an opportunity to his friend.

Ava: "I'm in. This sounds like...FUN. Something I haven't had in a long time when it comes to work. However I do have some terms of my own."

Cameron smirked for a moment. What was it with the women in this group constantly trying to adjust terms and conditions? He did this for a living and yet everytime he presented a contract to a woman connected with this group she wanted to adjust or change it in some way.

"Of course, Ava. What have you got in mind?"

Ava: "I want a clause in this contract stating that at any time I can pull Cassadine Enterprises from The Zenith group due to a decline or possible shut down of your company. It's just a safety net. I might not enjoy running CE, but it is my family's legacy and I don't want to to crumble."

He nodded.

"You will still own the business outright. You'd just be outsourcing much of your duties to us. If at any time you want that to not occur, there is an etasblished clause that allows you to do so."

Then she started talking about overseeing another hotel. He could see that she was actually excited, that she had passion in her eyes about something. This was a very good thing, but he placed his hand in the air, motioning her to stop for a moment.

"There is no Athenian Parthenon location. We own a lot of land in Greece however. Tell you what, not that I don't trust your capability, but if you can get our Paris location up and running and SUCCESSFUL in a later to be agreed upon timeline..THEN we can talk about expanding the Parthenon brand there."

Ava: "And finally....I can't very well oversee these hotels without an office.
I like this one. Something similar in size and on the same floor as yours will do."

Now Cameron just laughed out loud.

"Oh, Ava. You're gonna fit right in. I've got the size of office your looking floor, but i'm afraid it's a few floors down. That's where much of the International Brand business gets done. And with everyone's efforts being focused solely on the Parthenon, why, you'd have a entire floor of people to play 'The Devil Wears Prada' with."

Smirking at Ava he TOO extended his hand and cocked his head to the side.

"So if you, my dear, can make that tiny little concession, Then I am gonna have to say.... Welcome to The Zenith Group and we can begin work on your office as soon as you sign on those beautiful dotted lines!"

 

[Persephone]

Cameron: There is no Athenian Parthenon location.

"Yet."

Ava said with a smile, already thinking far and beyond the Parisian Parthenon. But Cameron was right. She needed to prove that she not only knew how to deal with international weapons affairs but creating and running a hotel. It was two totally different beasts. So when he counter offered that if she could successfully open the Parisian Parthenon without any flaws or set backs, that the Athenian Parthenon could be her baby as well.

"That sounds fair enough. But you better keep everyone's grubby hands off that location."

She joked. As for the office, Cameron said she had to work downstairs. Raising an eyebrow, she withdrew her hand.

"Well that's a deal breaker."

Her face serious and unforgiving, but Cameron could see the playful glint in her eyes.

"I'm kidding, that's fine Cameron. I was only half joking about the office. As long as it's big and not some hole in the wall. AND it has a nice view."

Laughing softly, she shook Cameron's hand. Wow, she was actually expanding her brand. She was doing something different! It was exciting. And it was definitely something that were keep her focused and her mind off of other things she was dealing with.

Cameron: Oh, Ava. You're gonna fit right in.

Picking up the file, Ava opened it and laid it down on Cameron's desk. Since he already had the clause in there allowing her to pull Cassadine Enterprises if she so pleased, there was no need to draw up another contract. That was honestly the most important detail that she wanted to make clear with Cameron. Other hotels and offices weren't important. Her family's company was. So with that settled, Ava picked up a pen and signed her name on the spots needed closing the deal.

"There we have it."

Snapping her fingers, she pointed at Cameron.

"OH! There's one more thing. With my apartment being sublet by Cass [Ava rolled her eyes a bit], and my businesses now primarily being run here in New York, is there any way I could stay in one of the suites at The Parthenon for the time being? I vaguely remember you saying you had rooms readily available for the six...i'm hoping that offer still stands?"

 

[Prophet]

The Zenith Group Executive Offices - Wallstreet

Cameron shook Ava's hand watched her sign on the correct lines and that was that. Ava Cassadine was now a member of The Zenith Group and with her she brought her worldly influence, endless connections and a signature style that would only compliment everything his business was already a part of. He was very pleased with himself and very happy to see Ava taking a step towards something really great.

"Ava Cassadine. Welcome to The Zenith Group. I'll have my secretary courier over all the specifics and what not. I know you're not much of a spotlight hound, so after I get back from Los Angeles for some personal matters, I'd like to set up a dinner with The Board and formally introduce you. Your office will be ready in no time and i'll officially announce your transition to the department in a few days, once everything is in order."

They were just about to say their goodbyes as Ava interjected once more.

Ava: "OH! There's one more thing. With my apartment being sublet by Cass [Ava rolled her eyes a bit], and my businesses now primarily being run here in New York, is there any way I could stay in one of the suites at The Parthenon for the time being? I vaguely remember you saying you had rooms readily available for the six...i'm hoping that offer still stands?"

He smiled at his friend and new business associate.

"Of course Ava. One of my goals has been to get the lot of us back to the city. Right below my floor on the Parthenon is Executive Penthouses for each member of The Six. They have MORE than enough space for you. Three bedrooms, stocked kitchens, outdoor patios, every amenity you could imagine as well as the housekeeping and concierge services of the hotels. They can also be completely customized to your tastes, so however you want to decorate just let me know. In fact...if you head to The Parthenon now, just go to Guest Services and find Louise. She'll give you the keys and you can take a look..."

Cameron looked at Ava and gave her a soft smile.

"And on a side note, I'm really excited to get the chance to work with you. I think this could really be great for the both of us, and it will be nice to have somebody else in the city, even more nice that you'll only be a few floors away, both at home and work. Just think it will be like a game... 'How long until we get sick of each other?'"

He gestured her towards the door, his hand on her back.

"It's good to see ya, Cassadine. Now, if you'll excuse me I have a young and pompous subordinate to take care of!"

Cameron walked Ava to the door as she made her way back into the reception area.

 

[Rampage]

:: Eldritch chimes, but of a lower tone, sounded off and a cold, EVIL wind GUSTS through the chamber of dreams, over Nicolas as "Morgan" turns around and he sees her FACE. NOT MORGAN but...::

CIRCE!!

Nicolas was at once shocked and furious. WHERE was Morgan and HOW was this BITCH here?!

No time...he was tumbling backwards, regaining his footing just as she completed the trap, encasing him in mystic chains. Something was off though...STILL the WRONG Limbo?!

Fuckfuckfuckfuckfuck.

Nicolas began to struggle, trying to gain enough room to port...wedge...anything. Just then it got worse...

We've played this game before, mutant filth. But this time you HAVE NO ESCAPE! Just as Spellbinder's power and WILL were absolute in this eldritch dimension, the same applies to ME!

:: She gestures, igniting that dreadful spell once again...::

With my magicks, I will compell your TRUE nature to the forefront of your consciousness, your SOUL. I will turn you, irrevocably, into who you truly ARE and you will be MINE to command!

:: She conducts the spell, like a dark symphony of PAIN. That Nicolas hasn't blacked out from the pain of the magickal onslaught is a testimony to his durability, but it also serves as a perverse challenge to Circe to see just how horrible she can make this experience as his body is no longer his to control and he is becoming more and more a spectator in his own mind::

You thought being reduced to a PSYCHIC HOUND was hell? My dear boy, you don't know what HELL IS....but you're ABOUT TO FIND OUT!

:: Thunder crashes once more as the glowing light from Circe's dark magick FLASHES::

DEMON SEED OF SET, I COMMAND YOU! COME FORTH!

:: It's too late! Nicolas is LOST...only SET REMAINS...::

Too late!! He was lost and Set would remain. Only one play left...he commanded his axe away and then back...timed to hit the (hopefully) unsuspecting deity once the transformation was complete. He closed his eyes, ready to die.

ATHENA

AND I, GODDESS OF WISDOM AND WAR, SAY THEE NAY!

Wha-

The axe clatters to the floor, deterred from its deadly errand as hope flickered. The demigod fell backwards, looking above as he saw a beautiful owl...

Bup-

OL?!

<< Now after that terrifying moment where he believed himself to be LOST in Circe's magick and becoming SET, he finds himself somewhere ELSE.>>

<< The soothing white light envelopes him. NO more does he hear Circe's cold voice with it's haunting resonance. There's nothing but peace, calm and serenity.>>

<< When he finally dears to open his eyes, he sees that he is at Athena's Parthenon! In all of its full golden, bright glory!>>

<< the beautiful sky outside is filled with clouds that drift and swirl along in a soothing, comforting breeze.>>

<< Nicolas' own disorientation soon wears away as he is no longer in danger (real or imagined) but at the moment, he is utterly alone. No one is about, save him and Athena's giant, majestic statue, which stands in silent sentry inside the Parthenon.>>

Nicolas sat bolt upright. The wide expanse was empty, no one detected. He sees Athena's amazing statue and knows who was with him, who delivered him from his own peril. He gestured and a bag fell into his hands, the offering he had yet to deliver to the goddess. His axe is summoned to his other hand as he approaches the statue.

Athena, goddess of wisdom, courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, just warfare, mathematics, strength, strategy, the arts, crafts, and skill, I thank you for delivering me from what had befallen me.

He places the bag at the feet of the enormous statue. He knew that she could see him...SOMEHOW.

I offer to you a gift, a sign of my obedience to your request that I be your champion and Morgan's defender in our past time of need. In that battle I defeated the Gorgon and brought you a trophy as proof of my deed. Once again, I thank you.

Nicolas stood slowly, nodded his head to the statue, and turned to depart.

 

[Isis]

Diva appointment at Zenith

:: the "ding" tone heralds the opening of the elevators to the executive office floor of Zenith. Out steps Dominique Deveraux in a cashmere wrap and sleek black dress, complimented by her high heels and clutch.::

:: She moves with a purpose, her high heels announcing her approach. On her way in, her sapphire blue eyes catch sigh of...::

Ava.

Good afternoon.

:: The sorceress says with a nod to the goddess. The two weren't friends. In fact they were, by their individual assocations, ENEMIES, however...they had a mutual understanding and respect for one another that transcended the current standing truce between the six & sisterhood. it was this (among other key things) , which prompted Ava to seek Dominique's aid in contacting Demeter, Athena and Hecate during the Blue Moon, when Ava was blocked from doing so; Along with aiding Harbinger and Shadow Weaver in defending against Circe's onslaught.::


::At the moment, however, Dominique was on her way to see ANOTHER person, whom despite his connection to the Six, she had personal AND business dealings with. As she made her way into the reception area of Cameron King's office, she immediately strode PAST Simon Pratt, who was JUST about to walk with Cameron into his office.::

:: Dominique clears her throat::

Pardon ME.

:: She says cold and dismissively as she BUMPS Simon out of the way::

Good afternoon, Mr. King. I believe WE have an appointment?

:: Cameron knew Dominique was not one to be kept waiting or trifled with.::

 

[Prophet]

The Zenith Group Executive Offices - Wallstreet

Cameron bidded goodbye to Ava as he walked her watch down the hall and back towards the elevator. He also noticed he was not the only one watching her walk away. Rolling his eyes for a moment, he gestured to Simon.

"Alright Pratt, you're up!"

Simon stood and began to make his way towards Cameron's office door when all were halted by the booming and icy cold voice of Dominique Devereaux.

Isis: Pardon ME.

Cameron couldn't help but smile for a moment. She was definitely looking good this morning and he took a few moments to eye her up and down as she pushed her way past Simon and immediately into his office.

Isis: Good afternoon, Mr. King. I believe WE have an appointment.

He laughed for a moment and shot a glance to Simon who seemed just the slightest bit confused and a little deflated. Cameron placed a hand on the young man's shoulder.

"Sorry, kid. Dominique Devereaux doesn't like to wait, and with as much money as she brings to my hotel, she gets what we want. I have no idea how long this will take, but I do expect you to keep waiting. Grab another cup of coffee, maybe a bagel...and WAIT."

And with that he turned around and closed the door to his office, making sure to lock it this time. Turning around he greeted Dominique with a warm hug as he took her wrap from her and placed it on the coatrack beside his desk. He surveyed her up and down once more before cracking that signature cheeky smile of his.

"Dominique Devereaux, as I live and breathe. What brings you to my office this morning? not that i'm not happy to see you, as always."

 

[Persephone]

Cameron agreed to Ava staying at The Parthenon, stating that he did in fact have rooms readily available for the six if they wished to stay there. She would just need to seek out a woman named Louise to get her keys and take a tour.

"Perfect. Thank you."

Cameron: "And on a side note, I'm really excited to get the chance to work with you. I think this could really be great for the both of us, and it will be nice to have somebody else in the city, even more nice that you'll only be a few floors away, both at home and work. Just think it will be like a game... 'How long until we get sick of each other?'"

"Oh i'm sure not too long, with our alpha personalities and all. [joking, she smiled] I'm sure we'll be fine."

Ava followed Cameron out to the reception area.

Cameron: "It's good to see ya, Cassadine."

"You as well. I look forward to working with you."

Cameron: "Now, if you'll excuse me I have a young and pompous subordinate to take care of!"

Looking over at Simon, Ava smirked.

"Have fun with that."

Starting forward, she only made it a few steps before seeing Dominique Deveraux walking towards Cameron's office. The woman looked like she was on a mission.

Dominique: "Ava. Good Afternoon."

"Good afternoon, Dominique."

It was a quick but cordial exchange. The woman may not have been on the "same side", but Dominique aided Ava when she was in need, therefore she harbored no ill will towards the woman.

Dominique: "Pardon ME."

Turning her head to see Dominique straight up dismiss Simon and storm past him into Cameron's office, Ava couldn't help but crack a smile and laugh a little. THAT must of deflated his ego a bit. Turning back around, Ava took out her iPhone and sunglasses from her purse and made her way to the elevator, preparing to head to The Parthenon.

 

[Isis]

Zenith- Cameron's executive suite

:: She returns his embrace, taking in his scent and once again noting his much bigger, BETTER physique than during the Viper caper.::

Thank you.

:: She replied as he took her wrap and she seated herself. She hadnt given another moment's thought to that young man out in the waiting room. He was right where he needed to be. IN the WAITING room.::

He surveyed her up and down once more before cracking that signature cheeky smile of his.

"Dominique Devereaux, as I live and breathe. What brings you to my office this morning? not that i'm not happy to see you, as always."

::For a MOMENT, Dominique's facial expression softened. Cameron exuded charm and had a way of pulling a woman in with his overall appeal. She allowed herself to enjoy the experience. But BUSINESS always took priority::

Cameron, what's this...RUMOUR I hear about you asking SHARON KELLY to appear as my "special guest" on stage the Parthenon in an upcoming show?

I thought I made it clear in our agreement that I was to have final approval of whom I would be performing with. I know NOTHING of Sharon's background as a vocalist or her ability as a performer!

:: this was the FIRST order of business. The way THIS went would determine when/IF they moved to the 2nd order.::

:: Dominique eyed Cameron, waiting for an explanation.::

 

[Athena]

The Parthenon

Nicolas sat bolt upright. The wide expanse was empty, no one detected. He sees Athena's amazing statue and knows who was with him, who delivered him from his own peril. He gestured and a bag fell into his hands, the offering he had yet to deliver to the goddess. His axe is summoned to his other hand as he approaches the statue.

Athena, goddess of wisdom, courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, just warfare, mathematics, strength, strategy, the arts, crafts, and skill, I thank you for delivering me from what had befallen me.

He places the bag at the feet of the enormous statue. He knew that she could see him...SOMEHOW.

I offer to you a gift, a sign of my obedience to your request that I be your champion and Morgan's defender in our past time of need. In that battle I defeated the Gorgon and brought you a trophy as proof of my deed. Once again, I thank you.

Nicolas stood slowly, nodded his head to the statue, and turned to depart.

::All is curiously silent in the Parthenon. Save for Nicolas' movements and words. But soon, after addressing the statue, the only point of reference he had for Athena here, he placed the macabre trophy at the feet of the statue and began to depart.::

:: As he walked away, heading to the exit of the parthenon. the EYES of the statue suddenly began to GLOW with an eerie sound.::

:: He made his way outside. He was certain he was SOMEWHERE on the Astral Plane, but there was also the sense that Athena, much like Limbo, dwelled OUTSIDE of the traditional binds of time & space.::

:: Before he could attempt to take his leave of this beautiful place, a ray of golden light beams down before him. A feminine form emerges. Athena, in a sparkling, flowing white gown, carrying her beloved, sleepy eyed owl, Bupol on her arm.::


Leaving so soon, my champion?

:: The goddess asks with a slightly quizzical tone, an unusual thing for the goddess of wisdom.::


I have received your gift and I accept it. You did MORE than well answering my charge during the Blue Moon.


It was no small thing, retrieving you from the deadly vortex around the realm of Limbo. You took a VERY dangerous and ultimately, UNNECESSARY risk, trying to breach that eldritch dimension under your own power.

Why would you do such a thing?

:: Not that she didn't already KNOW, but she wanted him to say it aloud.::

 

[Prophet]

The Zenith Group Executive Offices - Wallstreet

Well he had been happy to see Dominique but in true diva fashion she began to lash out talking about some kind of rumor about him asking Sharon to appear as a Special Guest at the Parthenon in an upcoming show. It was true, Cameron had briefly spoken with Sharon about it after her showstopping performance on Aerie. Everything was still preliminary and up in the air and honestly since Sharon's return to the mainstream world, she wasn't necessarily craving the spotlight like that.

He moved over to his desk and began to lean on the front of it with his arms folded as he listened with exasperation at the state Dominique had worked herself into.

"Dominique...I know you tend to focus more on my body than my mind, but I am actually pretty adept in my business dealings."

He had said that first part because he knew it would tick her off, and part of him liked to see that. Dominique was HOT when she was angry.

"Secondly, did I speak to Sharon? Absolutely I did. At a small gathering of The Six, Sharon performed a song for us. Her sonic abilities have allowed her the benefit of having perfect pitch and total control over her voice. The performance was enough for me to at the very least consider it..."

Cameron walked over to Dominique and placed his hand on her shoulder, knowing there was about a 50% chance that she would allow it to remain there or shrug it off in some dramatic fashion, but Cameron was a man who liked to play the odds.

"However, it's a little dissappointing that you think so little of me that you expect me to just add to your show without talking to you first. But honestly, Dominique, that rumor is merely a lot of people putting the cart before the horse. Sharon isn't necessarily one of the most attention grabbing people. She enjoys her privacy and there is a good chance she won't even want to do it..."

He leaned in as he stared at her beautiful eyes, continuing.

"Either way, of course your contract remains the same and of COURSE you have final approval over every aspect of your show, and we both know that whether you have a Special Guest by your side or not...you ARE the show, Dominique. It couldn't be done without you..."

Cameron pulled away.

"Now, is there anything else you wanted to yell at me about, Dominique? Or have I proved myself to be a good enough boy for the day?"

 

[Isis]

Zenith- Cameron's office

:: Dominique remained poised in her seat as she glared at Cameron with her piercing sapphire blue eyes. HE remained almost infuriatingly calm.::

He moved over to his desk and began to lean on the front of it with his arms folded as he listened with exasperation at the state Dominique had worked herself into.

"Dominique...I know you tend to focus more on my body than my mind, but I am actually pretty adept in my business dealings."

:: Dominique SCOFFS, jutting her lower jaw out in a facial expression of obvious disapproval and irritation, which in turn seemed to appeal to and ENCOURAGE Cameron.::

How dare you!

"Secondly, did I speak to Sharon? Absolutely I did. At a small gathering of The Six, Sharon performed a song for us. Her sonic abilities have allowed her the benefit of having perfect pitch and total control over her voice. The performance was enough for me to at the very least consider it..."

:: She was about to stand up and SLAP him when...::

Cameron walked over to Dominique and placed his hand on her shoulder, knowing there was about a 50% chance that she would allow it to remain there or shrug it off in some dramatic fashion, but Cameron was a man who liked to play the odds.

:: She looked down at his hand, then back up at him. She could have removed his hand and then SLAPPED him at any moment. She SHOULD HAVE! But she held herself in composure for a moment longer...in case he might have had something to say that would redeem him::

"However, it's a little dissappointing that you think so little of me that you expect me to just add to your show without talking to you first. But honestly, Dominique, that rumor is merely a lot of people putting the cart before the horse. Sharon isn't necessarily one of the most attention grabbing people. She enjoys her privacy and there is a good chance she won't even want to do it..."

He leaned in as he stared at her beautiful eyes, continuing.

"Either way, of course your contract remains the same and of COURSE you have final approval over every aspect of your show, and we both know that whether you have a Special Guest by your side or not...you ARE the show, Dominique. It couldn't be done without you..."

Cameron pulled away.

"Now, is there anything else you wanted to yell at me about, Dominique? Or have I proved myself to be a good enough boy for the day?"

:: Cameron wasn't lying. Which Dominique would have been able to tell if he had been. He didn't insult her or beat around the bush. Perhaps in a moment of uncertainty, she HAD underestimated him. She was still, after all, acclimating to the man he was NOW versus what she remembered him being. And their PERSONAL encounters were a source of amusement and even delightful distraction. Still...he deserved a good slapping for that earlier comment.::

:: She paused for a moment...::

No. That's all that I require today, Mr. King.

Well...there is one other thing.

::SLAP!::

That will teach YOU to imply that i'm some sprung little tart!

Thank you for your time, this afternoon.

:: Gathering her clutch and then grabbing her wrap from the coat rack, she didnt bother to wait for him to assist her putting it on as she prepared to take her leave.::


:: Turning on her high heel and walking toward the double doors. She stops once more and turns back, looking Cameron over with a slight smirk on her face.::

Ciao...for now.

:: She'd speak to him about HELLFIRE business, later on this evening.::

:: And with that, she exits his office, not even noticing Simon Pratt on her way out as she reaches the elevators and finally exits Zenith.::

 

[Prophet]

The Zenith Group Executive Offices - Wallstreet

Cameron loved to watch Dominique get worked up. He took great pleasure in poking the beast, so to speak . She was always so icy cold. She commanded respect and she always got it, and there was just something about her that made Cameron want to ruffle her feathers, get her a little flustered. He was quite sure that NOBODY else talked to Dominique Devereaux like he did and lived to tell about it. It was definitely a game of cat and mouse.

Dominique: Well...there is one other thing.

::SLAP!::

Cameron grabbed his face and smiled for a moment, not sure if he was pissed off or turned on. He instinctively chose "turned on".

Dominique: That will teach YOU to imply that i'm some sprung little tart!

He laughed.

"I'm always down to learn anything you have to teach me, Ms. Devereaux."

Dominique: Thank you for your time, this afternoon. Ciao...for now.

And with THAT, Dominique Devereaux walked out of his office just as boisterously as she had arrived, the click of her heels resounding throughout the room as she made her way to the elevator. What a woman. Rubbing his face once more, he quickly composed himself. Now it was time to get to far more serious business. Simon Pratt.

He stepped out of his office and motioned Simon over.

"It's that time! Come on in!"

As Simon walked into his office, Cameron closed the door behind them.

"Take a seat, Pratt."

Cameron motioned Simon over to one of the chairs that sat in front of his desk. Once Simon was seated, Cameron made his way over to his desk and took a seat. He interlocked his fingers and looked at the young man in the eyes.

"I have to say, the job you did in Paris recently was very nicely done. We got a below market rate and the location is absolutely perfect for the addition. So first and foremost, job well done."

[unlocking his fingers and placing his hands on his desk]

"However, certain things have come to my attention. Things I absolutely cannot ignore. [pausing] I built this business from the ground up in a record amount of time. I put the necessary blood, sweat and tears into these walls to ensure that when I came back to the business world I would return to and exceed where I once was. I've done that. You would agree yes?"

He watched as he could tell Simon was starting to get a little uncomfortable, nervous even. This was exactly what Cameron had wanted. Still, looking at the young, attractive and confident man he couldn't help but see a lot of himself, or at least a lot of who he used to be. Cocky, arrogant, a little bit pig headed. That was part of the reason he felt the need to reach out to Simon like he was doing. However, he could only present his case. If Simon decided he didn't want to learn, Cameron would leave it at that. Some people needed to learn the hard way. Cameron knew that because he was one of them. Simon nodded.

"Good. Now, operating a business like this, one has got to make sure to dot every 'I' and cross every 'T'. There is no room for error, and I just can't afford to allow any kind of conduct that would discredit the success i've created. I have to take certain measures."

Cameron got up from his desk and walked over to Simon.

"I've spent a lot of money hiring the best in the business to screen every potential employee for anything that might make them a flight risk. You of course passed the initial check with no problem. In fact, you're an ideal job candidate. You're charming, you come from one of the most affluential families in the country with the potential to bring some of your family's connections to us. It seems like the perfect partnership."

He leaned on the corner of his desk as he leaned in closer to Simon, speaking in a lower and far more serious tone.

"I also employ people to find the things that one might try to hide from me..you see, Pratt. When I first came into all of this success years ago, I wasn't the best guy. I employed 'practices' that were less than couth to gain success, and it resulted in a near federal lawsuit from the SEC by a feisty attorney with a penchant for starting fires..."

<<Flash!>>

The Gala Event - Post Inferno

<< Alycia laughed a bit..shaking her head as she smiled at Erika>>

Alycia: uh uhhhh. sorry Doctor, but the deaths of Christopher King and Blaze Fielding were accidents. unfortunate casaulties and its all completely documented and verfied. I can send your office a copy ..for a small fee of course <<winking at erika>>

I wouldnt try retorting, Doctor, the law is MY forte' and you're hopelessly out gunned here by myself and senator Kelly. You see..ther are alot of powerful people here tonight, and if Cameron over there isnt carefull...no matter how "well run" his business is..it can and WILL be ruined, not to mention his reputation. and dont bother trying to "expose the happenings of inferno"...the investigation by the local, state and federal authorities has been closed and ruled out as more mayhem caused by MysTech.

Tell your brother to watch his back...because "powers" arent needed to take him OR his walking computer down.

<< alycia winked at Erika as she clicked her tongue against her teeth.>>

Sharon Kelly: your superiors and i are rather close. it would be a shame if you came under sudden review...and found your OWN dubious dealings and involvements with the Inferno exposed...given that YOUR mother was an operative as Mystech as well. You see...we have the power to conceal/expose any part of this we want...and if you dont back down now...YOU will lose your standing in the government...not to mention your status as a citizen.

<<Morgan leaned in close>>

Morgan: dont fuck with me bitch. neither you NOR your brother has a prayer in this town if i say so. <<wink>>

<< the women immediately leave Erika where she stands...moving on to bigger and better hobknobbing. Erika had better taken cue. there were some big guns here tonight..bigger than her...and more powerful than she and cameron both politically and socially....and if Cameron wasnt carefull..he WOULD lose his company, and his life>>

It had been years since that event and even more personal transformations with ALL of the parties involved, but it had been the first real threat anybody had ever posed to his business. After that, he began the long and hard road to change himself. He snapped back into reality.

"After dowsing that fire, I made a promise to myself and my shareholders that this business would be ran with the utmost of care and in the most ethical way possible...So you can see my concern when I watch you walk these floors, using your abilities as a mutant to sway things to your favor. The jig is up, Pratt. You've got some explaining to do..."

Cameron had just revealed to Simon that he knew he was a mutant. Simon was deeply secretive about that part of him as his family weren't necessarily the most accepting people and having a mutant in the family was something that simply wouldn't be tolerated. How would he handle the revelation that somebody knew what he was capable of, now that his job was on the line?

 

[Longshot]

The Zenith Group Executive Offices - Wallstreet

Simon stepped into Cameron's office and promptly took a seat. As Cameron made his way to his seat he began to congratulate Simon on a job well done in Paris.

"Thank you Mr. King. That's quite the compliment coming from you."

Good. He had managed to impress the boss. Not that he was very worried about it. Simon always seemed to have luck on his side. Things tend to work out in his favor. He had only really recently learned that much of this had been due to a subconscious manifestation of his ability to alter probability around him. Because he was supposedly the only mutant in his family and because he had never consciously used his powers until recently, much of his talents went unnoticed. It was only when he was held at gunpoint a few years ago that he became aware of his power, causing the mugger's gun to malfunction and backfire, sending a a then coked out Simon running through the streets of the Upper East Side. It was something that rocked the very core of who he was. Everything he had accomplished for himself was now somehow tainted by the lingering doubt that it was because of his powers. So Simon did what any self absorbed priveleged blue blood would, he completely ignored it. Simon figured that everybody had some kind of advantage in life. Some were good at puzzles, some incredibly gifted with their hands, Simon just happened to be lucky.

And until Cameron continued to speak, Simon was feeling pretty damn good about his place in life. His boss continued.

"However, certain things have come to my attention. Things I absolutely cannot ignore. [pausing] I built this business from the ground up in a record amount of time. I put the necessary blood, sweat and tears into these walls to ensure that when I came back to the business world I would return to and exceed where I once was. I've done that. You would agree yes?"

Simon started to feel something a little peculiar. He was feeling nervous. It was such a rare occurence in his life that it took him a few moments to even be aware of what he was feeling. Still, he remained looking extremely calm and collected. A master of disguising his true feelings, a signature trait of the Connecticut wasps.

"Of course, Sir. The Zenith Group is flourishing."

"I've spent a lot of money hiring the best in the business to screen every potential employee for anything that might make them a flight risk. You of course passed the initial check with no problem. In fact, you're an ideal job candidate. You're charming, you come from one of the most affluential families in the country with the potential to bring some of your family's connections to us. It seems like the perfect partnership."

He leaned on the corner of his desk as he leaned in closer to Simon, speaking in a lower and far more serious tone.

"I also employ people to find the things that one might try to hide from me..you see, Pratt. When I first came into all of this success years ago, I wasn't the best guy. I employed 'practices' that were less than couth to gain success, and it resulted in a near federal lawsuit from the SEC by a feisty attorney with a penchant for starting fires..."

Okay, now Simon was getting uncomfortable. Cameron kept building him up and leading him somewhere and then completely changing the script. He saw now why the man had garnered such a reputation for negotiations and corporate takeovers. He never showed his full deck of cards. Simon respected that but right now he was wishing that the man would just get to the point.

"I'm confused Mr. King...have I done something wrong? I can assure whatever it is, it can be explained..."

But Cameron didn't seem to be listening. He looked as if he were lost in thought for a moment, taken back to whatever scenario he was talking about. Simon remained lost and worried as Cameron walked over to him, leaning against his desk and bent down. Another negotiation technique, making yourself appear taller or larger than your opponent.

"After dowsing that fire, I made a promise to myself and my shareholders that this business would be ran with the utmost of care and in the most ethical way possible...So you can see my concern when I watch you walk these floors, using your abilities as a mutant to sway things to your favor. The jig is up, Pratt. You've got some explaining to do..."

Simon's eyes widened in shock, horror and disbelief. How did he know? How the fuck did Cameron King know that he was a mutant. Simon had worked tirelessly ever since learning of his status to make sure that he remained undetectable. He never outwardly used his powers in a way that would be obvious. He became completely and visibly frazzled, caught totally offguard by Cameron's candid nature. He wasn't sure what to say.

"Mr. King..I don't...I can't...how? How could you possibly know I'm a mutant. I've never told anybody. I don't ever even use my powers in any way that would let anybody know...I've been incredibly careful..."

His mind was reeling as he tried to figure out what to do. This is when his stubborn nature and callous attitude began to rear it's ugly head. Unfortunately, it was a characteristic he shared with his tyrant of a father, and when one had the same last name as Simon did, he usually got away with it. He allowed himself several more seconds to panic, and then everything in his face changed. He was calm and quiet and he then he looked at his boss with his signature look of disdain. Simon stood.

"As careful as i've been, I obviously have slipped up somewhere. However, I'd like to point out, as you mentioned before, the family I come from. My family did not become who they were by backing down to people who think they've got dirt on us. We've been in New York since the 30's King. We've got skeletons in the closet and bodies in Central Park..."

[he adjusted his suit jacket as he looked in the mirror, both proud and hating himself at the same time.]

"You think you're the first to come at me with some salacious gossip or some unsung tragedy in order to get a leg up? My family created the cover up."

Simon walked over to Cameron and began to stare him dead in the eye.

"When it comes to my job? You can keep it. We both know I don't need the money. But you should know that if you so much as breathe word of this story to any kind of media outlet, if you so much as blog about it or write it in your diary, you WILL be taken care of, and it will make whatever the SEC planned look like a trip to the sandbox. And I won't stop at litigation...You may be a Titan of Industry, Mr. King..but i'm a child of one of the world's most infamous families. If you'd like to play the odds, fine...just don't forget, I'm the house. And the house always wins..."

Simon peered at Cameron like a cheetah poised to attack prey. As much as he loved his job, and as much as he admired Cameron, Simon would protect his secret by any means necessary and if that meant pissing off one of the world's most successful businessmen, then he would do it. And with Simon's resources, he was one of the few people in the world that could. Simon was all about appearances and he couldn't risk something like this getting out, and he wanted it to be known that while on the surface Simon appeared to be some frivolous bar fly with a penchant for spending money and bedding women, he was more than formidable.

He began to walk for the door.

 

[Prophet]

The Zenith Group Executive Offices - Wallstreet

Cameron couldn't help but watch with wonder as Simon began to somewhat implode. He felt a mixture of intrigue as well as disgust because the way that Simon carried himself was not unlike how Cameron might have back in the day. To see a living and breathing representation of that right in front of him? Well it definitely put things into perspective to him. He had come a long way and chosen the right path. Simon however, was going to need to be beaten like a dog before he understood things.

That was part of the pull that Cameron had with the young man. For whatever reason, Cameron looked at him and saw a lot of potential. If he could get over himself for a moment and make an honest effort towards a better path, he could see a bright future for Simon. A little of it was also the part of Cameron that felt that if he could help this man, he might be able to in some way make up for the things he had done in his past. As Simon headed for the door, Cameron laughed outloud for a moment.

"Pratt, head down now, it's quiet time."

Without so much as a second glance, Cameron TKed Simon backwards, flinging him into one of the chairs in front of his desk. He looked over at the young mutant with a fire in his eyes, watching as Simon became extremely scared for his life. Cameron walked over to him and bent over.

"While I've always been a fan of grandstanding, you should probably make sure that the man you've just threatened could turn you into a drooling toddler faster than you can say you're last name...which is ALOT, by the way..."

Cameron kept Simon in the chair with the use of his telekinesis as he paced back and forth.

"You see, as special as you think that little ability is of yours.. as HARMLESS as you choose to believe it is, it is WILDLY out of control. It seeps through this building like a cancer, constantly emanating around you. Sure it has it's benefits...but have you ever stopped and thought about the CONSEQUENCES those benefits create for others?"

Simon seemed confused. Cameron leaned in for a moment, his tone taking a far more serious turn.

"You walk around, totally unaware that there are people in this world who have DIED because of what they are. They have fought TIRELESSLY to make sure that people like YOU can walk around freely. I KNOW, because I'm ONE of those people. The world is not some playground, Pratt and if you think your FAMILY is going to be able to help you when the REAL bad guys figure out what your capable of doing? Then you're stupider than I thought. There are things out there that would STRING you up like a turkey and test the limits of that little power of yours, and you sit around and use it to get laid and close business deals... Well let me tell you something, Simon..."

Cameron spun around and SLAMMED his hands down on the top of his desk as the sound could be heard in the reception area. His secretary however had learned awhile ago to never disturb Cameron's office, no matter what she might hear.

"THAT IS NOT HOW WE OPERATE!"

[spinning Simon's chair around]

"You want to pontificate on the power that you have by your birthright, well there are people out there who operate OUTSIDE of any of that. People who could slaughter your ENTIRE family without so much as a second thought. So, if you'd like to 'gamble' the odds be my guest, or you could shut your FUCKING mouth and maybe TAKE the help I am about to offer you..."

Simon remained silent and nodded, beads of sweat running down his face. It was obvious that there were few times that Simon found himself nervous or scared and that THIS was one of them. Cameron calmed himself down and took a seat in his chair.

"So you aren't an idiot afterall. That's a good sign. I called you in here to scare the shit out of you, because you needed it. If there is anybody who understands how you operate, it's me. I get it. You talk all of this talk, you have powers that allow you to get WHATEVER you want whenever you want it, and you have an endless supply of funds to spend. I've been that guy, Simon....I see your potential as an asset to me, and not just from a business sense, but we'll get to that later...."

[resting his head on his knuckle]

"As you can see by the fact that you are unable to move.. I too am a mutant. I can show you how to control your power. I can show you what you are capable of. I offer this because at some point that power is going to work against you. It's going to get you the opposite of what you want, and you could potentially EXPOSE the world to us yet again...that's a chance we can't take..."

"Basically, I'd like to make you my protege of sorts. I will teach you the skills you need in order to be successful both with your ability and in the business field, but there is ONE thing I require...."

[leaning in]

"You are not allowed to use your ability for personal gain or for ANY future business transaction you make within this company.. The decision is yours. After that brazen display of 'manhood' I'm sure you'll have some snippy comeback, but realize THIS...I'm offering you the keys to the kingdom, Pratt. And I WONT do that again..."

 

[Longshot]

The Zenith Group Executive Offices - Wallstreet

Simon had just about made it to the door of Cameron's office when all at once he was THROTTLED back, his body nearly folding in half as he landed HARD back into one of the desk chairs. His entire body tensed up and as much as he wanted to move, he absolutely couldn't as if some invisible force was holding him there. Simon was not somebody to get scared, but every dog has his day and Simon sat there, his eyes wide and his body perspiring.

"While I've always been a fan of grandstanding, you should probably make sure that the man you've just threatened could turn you into a drooling toddler faster than you can say you're last name...which is ALOT, by the way..."

Was Cameron King a mutant as well? How else could he be holding him there like he was. Cameron's words stungs. Okay, so maybe he was a little entitled. But that came with territory. He had been bred to be better than others and when you came from where he came from, your last name was everything. It afforded him the life he lived and gave him the opportunities that only few could reach.

"You see, as special as you think that little ability is of yours.. as HARMLESS as you choose to believe it is, it is WILDLY out of control. It seeps through this building like a cancer, constantly emanating around you. Sure it has it's benefits...but have you ever stopped and thought about the CONSEQUENCES those benefits create for others?"

Simon seemed confused. Cameron leaned in for a moment, his tone taking a far more serious turn.

"You walk around, totally unaware that there are people in this world who have DIED because of what they are. They have fought TIRELESSLY to make sure that people like YOU can walk around freely. I KNOW, because I'm ONE of those people. The world is not some playground, Pratt and if you think your FAMILY is going to be able to help you when the REAL bad guys figure out what your capable of doing? Then you're stupider than I thought. There are things out there that would STRING you up like a turkey and test the limits of that little power of yours, and you sit around and use it to get laid and close business deals... Well let me tell you something, Simon..."

Simon's mind was reeling. He had simply never given his power much thought. He always considered it to be something like right or left handedness. He figured everybody had their gifts and talents, his was just to be lucky. Sure he had seen the stories in the news since childhood. He had seen the rise of suspicious organizations. He remembers the dinners his father had, discussing mutant issues with some of NYC's elite, like Christopher Victory and Adam Chandler. He always knew that mutants were a hot button issue in this country, but he couldn't begin to comprehend how he really fit in to all of that. He was just a guy who had luck on his side. He hadn't ever hurt anybody.

Then everything hit him like a ton of bricks. He began to think back to all the women he had bedded in his day, all the opportunity afforded to him. Good grades without trying, never having a cut, a scrape or bruise in his entire life. Never hearing the words "NO"...he began to think that maybe he had been messing with the freewill of others his entire life, and that because of who he was, and what he was capable of, everything had been a lie. He had these thoughts before but whenever they came up, he choked them down, refusing to think of them. But hearing Cameron speak of the responsibility he had because of who he was, it definitely hit home for Simon. Maybe he WAS living his life the wrong way.

"THAT IS NOT HOW WE OPERATE!"

[spinning Simon's chair around]

"You want to pontificate on the power that you have by your birthright, well there are people out there who operate OUTSIDE of any of that. People who could slaughter your ENTIRE family without so much as a second thought. So, if you'd like to 'gamble' the odds be my guest, or you could shut your FUCKING mouth and maybe TAKE the help I am about to offer you..."

Simon remained silent and nodded, beads of sweat running down his face. It was obvious that there were few times that Simon found himself nervous or scared and that THIS was one of them. Cameron calmed himself down and took a seat in his chair.

"So you aren't an idiot afterall. That's a good sign. I called you in here to scare the shit out of you, because you needed it. If there is anybody who understands how you operate, it's me. I get it. You talk all of this talk, you have powers that allow you to get WHATEVER you want whenever you want it, and you have an endless supply of funds to spend. I've been that guy, Simon....I see your potential as an asset to me, and not just from a business sense, but we'll get to that later...."

[resting his head on his knuckle]

"As you can see by the fact that you are unable to move.. I too am a mutant. I can show you how to control your power. I can show you what you are capable of. I offer this because at some point that power is going to work against you. It's going to get you the opposite of what you want, and you could potentially EXPOSE the world to us yet again...that's a chance we can't take..."

"Basically, I'd like to make you my protege of sorts. I will teach you the skills you need in order to be successful both with your ability and in the business field, but there is ONE thing I require...."

[leaning in]

"You are not allowed to use your ability for personal gain or for ANY future business transaction you make within this company.. The decision is yours. After that brazen display of 'manhood' I'm sure you'll have some snippy comeback, but realize THIS...I'm offering you the keys to the kingdom, Pratt. And I WONT do that again..."

This was too much reflection for Simon. He wasn't used to looking this deeply at himself. Part of him wanted to throttle Cameron King, leave his office and never look back. It's what his father would have done. But there was a small part of him that felt...something, he just wasn't sure exactly what it was. Guilt? Compassion? Hope? All of these were new to him. He felt scared and extremely vulnerable and to appear this way to a man he respected? Well it was just too much.

Thankfully at that moment, Cameron let go of the telekinetic hold he had on Simon and he felt his body slink into the chair, completely in control of himself. He was breathing heavily as he wiped the sweat from his forehead. Cameron was looking for answer...NOW. Simon cleared his throat.

"Look..I'm..sorry, Mr. King. I just...it's...nobody has ever outted me as a mutant before. I went into overdrive. I apologize..."

[taking a moment to adjust his suit once more, seeming to center himself in the process]

"I'm not one for grandiose displays of emotion. I don't find a whole lot of use for emotion. However, you have appealed to my senses. I realize that what has been going on with me is something that I have to address at some point..."

Simon's face returned to it's natural smug state, almost largely ignoring the heated exchange the two just had.

"And I guess who better to teach me the ways of the Jedi but Cameron King, right? I'll make the deal. I'll do whatever it takes...just, I need to make sure that my status as a mutant doesn't get out there."

He awaited Cameron's response, a little nervous as Simon wasn't sure that he could keep up his end of the bargain.

 

[MorningStar]

Melrose Place, Apartment #5

Delilah motioned towards the door.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare your friend away.”

"We were just having coffee. There's plenty left, if you're interested."

“Only if you add something a little stronger.”

She winked, but accepted a black cup from Haleigh regardless.

"If Zach were cheating on me, I'd deserve it. Hell, I don't think I'd even have a right to be mad if it turned out the YOU were the one he was cheating on me with. Inexplicably, he loves me in spite of everything.....I don't think I'd begrudge him the same."

Delilah scoffed.

“Either you’re the most well-adjusted person I’ve ever met, or suffering the worst case of depression. [leaning forward] But if I ever hear you say you deserve a man treating you badly again? I’ll kick YOUR ass. And don’t think I can’t.”

She took a sip of the hot black liquid and felt it warm her insides.

"Did you miss the news coverage? 'A massive wormhole unleashes an alien attack on Manhattan'.....'Avengers avoid total annihilation'? I've been off saving the world again. No one told you?

“And clearly I’m not the only one who’s been out of the loop…I’m not exactly on speaking terms with a large proportion of The Six at the moment. They aren’t running over to my apartment to share the news of your glorious exploits…”

But enough about me. You're the one with the big life changing events! Speaking of life-- I had something made for you..... well not you directly but.... whatever. I would have wrapped it, but you're here and it's here so...."

Somehow she couldn’t imagine Haleigh sitting around with a roll of wrapping paper and some scotch tape…

But her good mood, the sense of normalcy being with Haleigh had given her, it all stuck in her throat. Her face tightened. She focused on the steps. Breathing in an out. Slitting the tape and unfolding the paper. Methodical. Detached.

“I’ve really missed you, Haleigh.”

It was heartfelt. One last moment of just being with a friend, before it went to hell again.

"I know I've been gone a long time...I guess I figured you guys would call me if things got bad so I assume everything's fine. But obviously, I missed a major family event. For that.... I really am sorry. So I got you this to make it up to you. Isn't it awesome?! I figured there was no better way to welcome the little rugrat to the family. I mean I know it isn't going out to fight evil with us, but.... it's a fucking bulletproof one-sie! It's badass, right?"

Delilah ran her hand lovingly over the fabric.

“It’s...it’s wonderful.”

Perfect.

She swallowed, and tried to smile, sound upbeat.

“I’ll have to find a way to get it to Ororo. Maybe…maybe Karen could-“

She had avoided Haleigh’s eyes all this time, but now, they connected. Her voice was quiet.

“You really have been gone a long time.”

She folded the little outfit back into the box and closed the lid, setting it and the paper on the coffee table. She took a drink – suddenly she was extremely thirsty. She cleared her throat, and launched herself into the story. Cliff’s Notes version. She slapped her legs with both hands.

“So, guess what? Circe came back and attacked Aerie. Oh, nobody told you? Don’t worry, they didn’t tell me either.”

Fuck this.

She threw down the rest of the coffee in her cup like a shot and stood up. She knew where Haleigh kept her liquor. Filling the coffee cup with whiskey, she continued.

“They all decided to keep it from me, because it would be too [airquotes] stressful for me. But that didn’t stop them from bringing me and my unborn child to the center of the battle. So to make a long story short: big battle, Alison stole my baby, and Morgan and I aren’t friends any more. Oh, and I died and was brought back to life by Athena. Any questions?”

She took a long drink, letting it burn on the way down in that way only good whiskey can.

 

[Black Widow]

Delilah: “Either you’re the most well-adjusted person I’ve ever met, or suffering the worst case of depression."

"Yeah, we're gonna go with well adjusted because the other options are lame. Don't laugh! I'm well adjusted compared to some people!"

Delilah: [leaning forward]" But if I ever hear you say you deserve a man treating you badly again? I’ll kick YOUR ass. And don’t think I can’t."

(Chuckling)"Yeah, okay, whatever."

Delilah: “And clearly I’m not the only one who’s been out of the loop…I’m not exactly on speaking terms with a large proportion of The Six at the moment. They aren’t running over to my apartment to share the news of your glorious exploits…”

Haleigh furrowed her brow as she sipped.

"What?"

As Delilah began to unwrap the gift, Haleigh noticed a shift in Delilah's behavior. She seemed..... forced. Delilah admitted to missing Haleigh, whose chest started to feel painfully compressed. Delilah pronounced the gift to be perfect, and Haleigh's skin started to crawl. It was like her body was protesting being present for what was about to happen, even if she didn't know what it was.

Delilah: "I'll have to find a way to get it to Ororo. Maybe..... Maybe Karen could--"

"Okay, what the fuck am I missing here?"

Delilah: "You've really been gone a long time."

Haleigh's grip tightened on her own coffee mug as Delilah poured herself some whiskey and talked about being purposely kept out of the 'loop'.

Delilah:"So to make a long story short: big battle, Alison stole my baby, and Morgan and I aren’t friends any more. Oh, and I died and was brought back to life by Athena. Any questions?"

Any questions? Where to start?! Haleigh looked almost as if she'd been sucker punched. She glanced out the window, mentally turning on the drain pump for the pool in the courtyard, because she wasn't about to drag Delilah out of a body of water and give her mouth to mouth again. Then she looked back at her friend, and started with the most fucked up part.

"Alison......... stole......... your baby? Okay...... We can fix this. I can find the..... baby. I'm hoping Alison thought she had a good reason, but that's irrelevant."