Changing faces

[Oracle]

<< the ironic comfort of darkness fades...the dawn brings light..and with it a rewnewed focus on the tasks at hand for Guardian and Black Widow....a visit to Doctor Karen Victoria in the Soho district to inform her of their terrible loss. Meanwhile the city and the country..indeed the WORLD is reacting to the shocking revelation of MysTech's involvement in Senator Sharon Kelly's death. Politicians from around the country calling for a vicious and thorough dismantling of the global commercial entity. In a way..it provides a brief distraction from what was the concern of the "Growing mutant menace". At Illustra...the company's activities continue to run as usual. Alison has ensured that Morgan's passing is kept under wraps until Alycia Barnett can finalize the executing of Morgan's will. Security protocalls will now be shared between Alison and Haleigh; Alison will assume head of operations over Illustra and leadership of the Six will be shared by Alison and Haleigh. Blaze would move into her old luxury apartment while Delilah would now move to Morgan's penthouse...staying in the guest bedroom and caring for the domicile and the cats indeed..MUCH was changing, whether the group wanted it to or not.>>

<< But even as they attempted to cope and face their duties, there was yet ANOTHER storm brewing...one that would reveal the blackest of hearts..and the MALICE that lurks in everyone's soul. Alexis Quatermaine's changing disposition was a symptom of something far deeper than depraved indifference.>>

<< it is said that with morning there comes a sense of renewal...but I wonder if the members of the Six feel that way now?>>

[Ororo]

::Delilah would find herself awakening in the spacious guest room of Morgan's penthouse. She had no idea how she'd wound up here but she felt as though she had slept soundly. a note was attached to a beautiful bouqet of exquisite flora...clearly not anything found in this city.::

Do not lose sight of your duty, Delilah. You are the light of this team..in more ways than one. You are meant to be here. Maintain Morgan's residence, care for her familiars and continue to be there for her. In all times and spaces...as infinite as they are...anything is possible. ANYTHING. I am only a wind away. -Ororo

::The sorceress had provided encouragement, comfort and understanding to the distraught young mutant as she reeled from the shock of Morgan's death. This was Ororo's way of urging Delilah to carry on. KNOWING that it would be difficult...but to not crumble. The team would be there for her just as she had been for them...and who BETTER to watch over Morgan's realm in her absence than her best friend?::

:: Delilah would find Tinkerbell sitting upright nearby her on the bed, looking curiously at her with those deep blue eyes of her. the familiar always had a liking toward Delilah. the younger kitten was already in another part of the penthouse...exploring the expanse as any curious kitten would.::

::Delilah knew that Alison would be handling the notifying of Karen...and that there would be affairs of Morgan's estate that Alycia would take care of. They would all be gathering together to attend Sharon Kelly's funeral as well. But What Delilah DIDNT know was that Blaze had been returned to the group in the flesh as well as spirit....she would find that while one light faded..another was reignited and together they would all slowly make their way through this.::


::a faint breeze flowed through Morgan's penthouse...soft and subtle...yet it providing a soothing touch to Delilah's skin. Was it Ororo's lingering presence? or an effect that Morgan had bound to the penthouse being that she was a daughter of the air?.::

::Delilah would start the stay with uncertainty..just as the rest of her team would::

[Harbinger]

::Alison Marble stood in a large full length mirror. Ever the chameleon with her looks, she always managed to find a new way to present herself in the most unusual times. perhaps it was a way to hide her true feeling..or DISTRACT from what she was feeling?::

http://uncannyxmen.net/images/costume/sage-bigcostume4.jpg

::wearing a skin tight black leather outfit with high heeled boots. with the right upper part held together over one shoulder, asymmetrical straps on the lower part and long fingerless gloves. the suit was accented by a low slung double belt with a large "M" on the buckle. presumably to honor the fallen Morgan.::

::her black/brunette hair was styled in a sophisticated gathered "up do"...a slight departure from the trademark sleek bun she wore but no less elegant. the costume was severe yet sexy at the same time and she would wear it to Karen's in Soho.::

:: as she slowly turned around ..admiring her feminine figure from the front and the back..she awaited Haleigh. Blaze had most likely spent the night at Haleighs and would have time to greet Delilah and Alexis today...while acclimating back into Illustra. Alison give strict orders for NONE of the six to venture past the 90th floor...she did not want them having contact with the human personell in the building right now with everything happening, nor did she want to risk the truth about Morgan's passing being revealed and possibly causing Illustra's stock to plummet.::

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Walking from her bedroom down the long stretch of hallway that lead to the livingroom, Alexis' clicking heals soon muffled as she reached the run of oriental carpeting that laid within the grand room. Today was Sharon's memorial service; a fantastic way to fuck of a perfectly good day. People crying, snotty handkerchiefs flying about, oh so sweet words of remembrance being spread among the mourning. It was enough to make the meta human sick. ::

:: A soft ringing of her cell phone caught Alexis' attention as she made her way through the livingroom and into the kitchen where her purse laid on top of the counter. Opening the black leather clutch, she grabbed a hold of the sleek black razor cell phone and flipped it open. ::

"Alexis Quartermaine."

:: As Alexis stood in her kitchen listening to Tracy babble on the other line, the morning's sun danced along the milky complexion of her skin. She looked different--edgier it seemed. Wearing a sleek blood red pencil skirt and black corset inspired top (picture (http://www2.victoriassecret.com/images/prodlgvw/V255691.jpg)), the plunging neckline of the shirt gave a perfect view of the silver cuffed choker with sapphire gem that clasped perfectly on her neck. With a sleek above the shoulder length bob, her blonde locks were completely bone straight and without a hint of imperfection. Dark makeup lined her eyes and shadowed her lids while nude gloss shined along her pale pink lips. ::

:: Snapping out of her little daze, Alexis' brows lowered instantly at Tracy mentioning the ongoing preparation for a tribute issue of Tempo Magazine for Sharon Kelly. ::

"Absolutely not!"

:: Hearing Tracy stop with shock, silence was all Alexis could hear on the other end of the phone. ::

"I won't have MY family's magazine publish an issue devoted to a self righteous politician who got exactly what she deserved. Do you understand me? I'm not going to fill Tempo with filth that has already been published 20 times over on thousands of magazines throughout this nation. Take it off the presses now! I want my original April issue back up and running immediately."

:: Flipping her cell shut, Alexis squeezed the compact phone within her hands while inhaling a long deep breath. This whole, 'Sharon Kelly's dead' crap was really becoming a thorn in her side. Stuffing her cell back into her purse, Alexis removed her large black Chanel glasses and put them on as she proceeded out of her penthouse and down the hall to the elevator. Alison requested that they all stayed within Illustra to not cause any unwanted attention to them and/or Morgan. Nevertheless, Alexis had things to do before Sharon’s funeral and couldn’t get them done in this godforsaken black hole known as Illustra. ::

:: Stepping into the elevator, Alexis slammed her palm into the ‘lobby’ button and stepped back, resting her body against the elevator walls. Watching the doors close, the blonde waited as the elevator began to descend. ::

[Foxfire]

Blaze knew Haleigh was right, she would stay here while the other team leaders informed Karen of Morgan's death. Her heart already aching for Karen, any mother NEVER got over the death of a child. And as much of a psychologist as Doctor Victoria was, even she would have difficulty.

The brunette settled into Haleigh's sweet for the night. She of course couldn't sleep, just like Haleigh. Instead she felt herself some vodka and tequila. The high content alcohol drowning out her sorrows of Morgan. She sat in the window sill with the light breeze caressing her tanned skin. Overlooking the city or what was left of it.

Her mind on Morgan throughout the night. Bitterness and anger just fueling her fiery nature. Clutching the glass in her hands it cracked before realizing. Gulping the rest down, the liquid burned her throat. She stayed in that same position like a haunting nightowl until the sun's rays pierced through the window.

After a shot shower and a change of clothing http://img.actressarchives.com/beckinsale/1474771_KateB_Mazur.jpg (http://img.actressarchives.com/beckinsale/1474771_KateB_Mazur.jpg) from Haleigh's wardrobe closet. Blaze was ready to seek out Morgan's penthouse, she needed to see Tinkerbell and find Delilah.

Her leather ankle boots clicked on the hard wood flooring as she stepped out of Haleigh's suite, locking the door behind her. Hitting the elevator button her eyes staring up at the tiny red numbers.

The door swung open to reveal Alexis. Blaze narrowed her eyes, stepping inside. In the blink of an eye she swung a mighty fist into Alexis' mouth. The doors closing behind her. "Bitch! Its not nice to fuck with me!" Her eyes morphing over with her fingernails elongating into sharp nails. Pressing her nails into Alexis' shoulder blades, breaking the skin.

She cocked her head to the side before her fingertips tightly wrapped around Alexis' outfit slamming her up against the other side of the elevator box cart. Her facial expression morphing into that unholy grimace again. And even Alexis would SENSE that Blaze too had changed. "Now that I'm alive and well....we have time to catch up....starting now." Her hands tugging on Alex's blonde locks with a snarl. Her knee plunging into Alexis' abdomen.

"And I'm just warming up!"

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Lifting her eyes to the glowing red numbers, the elevator slowed to a stop at the 105th floor. Lowering her glance, the doors slowly opened revealing Blaze alive and well. Although shocked at the sight of the woman, no one could of guessed as the large framed black glasses hid Alexis' eyes and questionable look. ::

"Blaze--"

:: Her words cut off by a quick punch to her cheek, Alexis' head whipped to the side sending her glasses and purse flying to the floor. Forcefully being pushed against the elevator wall, Blaze certainly did have a massive stick shoved up her ass...that was apparent as the woman pinned Alexis' body tightly to the wall. ::

:: Letting out a low huff as Blaze lifted her knee into Alexis' stomach, Alexis herself was getting quite annoyed at the brunette's melodramatic display of anger. Pushing forward, Alexis slammed Blaze against the door of the elevator, placing her forearm tightly against the mutant's throat, and her glossy lips firmly against Blaze's. Feeling Blaze struggle, every second that passed, Blaze became weaker as Alexis literally sucked the life out of her. Her body began to cramp; a feeling of shooting pains filled her abdomen and head. Her sight went black and she began to loose all control of her motor functions. Her thought process slowed and nothing but dizziness and confusion filled her head. Alexis kept her lips planted on Blaze until the very last second--the very second Blaze's heart was about to take it's one last beat--and Alexis pulled away but stayed close. The blonde's warm breath dances along Blaze's numb lips. ::

"You don't play this game nearly as well as one might think...."

:: As the elevator slowed to a stop and a soft dinging rang throughout the small compartment, Alexis stepped back and allowed Blaze's body to fall into a heap on the floor. Running her tongue along her now dry lips, Alexis bent down and grabbed a hold of her purse and sun glasses, and stepped over Blaze's body and out onto the main floor of Illustra. Slipping her glasses back on, Alexis delicately ran the back of her hand along her bruising cheekbone, immediately glamouring it back to it's pervious state. ::

:: Fiercely walking out of Illustra, the blonde climbed into her limo, avoiding the photographers and reporters that were swarming the premises. ::

"Tempo."

:: The driver nodded and slowly pulled out heading to Tempo Magazine. ::

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh's restlessness only worked against her. She took a Navy shower, probably five minutes long at most. Working quickly to wash the dirt and dried blood off helped her to push away the memories of the night-- the haunting memories that wouldn't stay at bay for very long.... no, in fact, nearly as soon as she'd finished toweling off, and pulled on her silk robe, her mind's eye was filling with the sight of greeting Morgan outside her door, and leaving for the rainbow room. Haleigh opened the bottle of Everclear and crawled into bed next to Zach, who'd given her some time alone by watching the drop down plasma tv while she showered. she either didnt have the strength or was lacking the presence of mind to get dressed, and instead laid down next to him in her robe. He turned off the tv and grabbed two glasses from the bedside table. Haleigh filled his and then drank straight from the bottle. Zach took the hint, and put the other glass back, slowly sipping his glass... he wasn't really all for drinking it straight... probably because as a regular human, drinking too much of it would be lethal. He set his glass on the beside table, deciding to be of clear mind tonight, just incase. By the time Haleigh had lowered the 25 oz. bottle, half of its contents were gone. Zach didnt ask her to slow down.... he knew tonight would be rough for her... because she couldn't sleep to escape the pain, and her technoorganically enhanced body wouldn't allow her to become passed-out drunk. He wrapped his arms around her and did his best to soothe her.

Zach:"I know.... that it seems really heavy right now... and that you can't wrap your head around it.... and that you can't imagine feeling THIS terrible for the rest of your life... and that you worry you WILL... but it WILL get better.... Even the most SEARING pain dulls with time."

Haleigh said nothing, but laid her head against his shoulder instead. Delta, her blue-black doberman and Echo, her brindle boxer, seemed to also sense her pain, and they jumped up into bed and snuggled also, Echo laying his head next to Haleigh's and Delta managing to squeeze up between them and lay her head on Haleigh's stomach. Haleigh took another drink, and alternating petting them both. and even though she had her 'family' right by her side, on this dark and gloomy night, Haleigh still felt as though she faced her demons alone... and though the alcohol made things blurry... the image of Morgan's face as her hand slipped from haleighs, and the sound of terror in her scream as she was pulled into the vortex was something Haleigh couldn't purge from her mind. Haleigh weeped again, with such seeping and resounding pain that even the dogs starting whimpering.

Eventually Zach, Delta, and Echo fell to their dreams, and Haleigh stared up at the vaulting ceiling numbly. Normally, during the night, she would take te time to relax, read a good book, do some work if things were busy, or plan sieges and field missions.... tonight, she didn't have the strength or desire to do any of those things... she could only lay there, stroking her dogs and listening to Zach breathe, as she thought about tomorrow and what they were going to do in the days following. She waited for the sun to rise... it seemed dull and lifeless to her... the skyline turning from murky gray to a brilliant orange... it was... utterly depressing. Morgan will never see a sunrise again... was the melancholy thought that crossed her mind. Haleigh slipped out of bed and shut the curtains. She stood there for a moment, before deciding to get dressed. She didnt have much of an appetite this morning, and would skip breakfast. As she passed the bed, she knelt on the edge to give Zach a kiss on the cheek. Such a sweetheart. she reached over him to get the empty bottle out of the bed.... her body had already processed the alcohol... and she was painfully coherent. A perk of being half machine was never suffering from a hangover.... it seemed more like a con right now... as she had nothing to distract her from the everpresent truth. Morgan was gone, and now they had to learn to cope.

Haleigh dressed in a conservative, diplomatic and feminine suit. Jet Black, a subtle reflection of her heart, mind and soul. She looked at herself in the mirror. Grief lined her face... but not for long. She took a deep breath and compartmentalized, wiping her expression blank and doing her best to brighten her eyes a bit. She realized, for the first time in ages, she felt truly EXHAUSTED.... and she took another deep breath, going back into her dark bedroom. She sat down on the floor, crossed her legs indian style, and began rythymic breathing. Clearing her mind as best she could. Relaxing every muscle in her body slowly. Meditating. Her replacement for sleep. She sat so perfectly still that it almost seemed she had frozen in time there. She sat for a couple of hours, processing information like normal human's minds did in their REM sleep cycles.

Haleigh finally rose, when she thought Alison might be awake and getting dressed. Zach smiled at her and got up, giving her a hug and encouraging her to bear strength today. She stood in his embrace for a few seconds, and then looked up. Security was calling her.

"Davidoff." She listened... aparently alexis was trying to make for Tempo... haleigh set her jaw. "Well bring her BACK," and, after a short pause: "I don't GIVE A DAMN if you have to use force, use CHLOROFORM for all I care, just BRING HER SCHITZO, DISSOCIATIVE ASS BACK HERE!"

Haleigh gave a short sigh and excused herself. She rode the elevator to Alison's floor. After a short pause, which she used to once more compose herself, she knocked on the door.

[Harbinger]

::Alison was standing in front of a picture of herself and Morgan. they were striking a pose on the red carpet outside of the Parthenon...the night they met Bane. Thre Alison was..in her eye popping black leather Versace dress that made even her BROTHER blush..and Morgan looking regal in her Vera Wang gem tone black corsetted gown.....the more she stared at the picture..the more misty eyed she became. and just as she began to cry outright...there was a knock at the door.::

:: Alison quickly fixed her face and adjusted her styled hair in a passing reflection as she opened the door to greet Haleigh. Alison looked prestine and polished..but her FACE betrayed a weary spirit lurking within::

Haleigh.....You didnt sleep well either. You saw her too.

:: Alison seemed ghostly...detached. and she was wearing her new uniform...that seemed to suggest she was now all about BUSINESS and no emotion.::

::stepping forward...the doors shut at Alison's mental command as the two women make their way to the private express elevator...ALison does them one better and TELEBLINKS them both to Karen's loft in Soho. This was the first time Haleigh had been back here since the night she had first revealed herself to Morgan.::

::before the ring Karen's bell...Alison looks at Haleigh for a moment. Then she turns and presses the button....the chimes play a beautifull melody. Morgan's energy signature often had a soft chiming effect::

[Shadow Weaver]

< Karen came to the door...wearing a feminine, elegant robe tide at the waist. her hair was pulled up into a soft bun with strategic strands of hair hanging down to frame her wintery face. the women certainly didnt look her age..in part because of her magick also in part because of healthy living. She saw Alison and Haleigh....and opened the large metallic door. >

Karen: Alison, Haleigh?.... Do come in.

< she receives her guest. Giving Alison a hug...Alison noticeably seems stiff and robotic in returning the embrace. she leads the women through the large foyer and down a small hall to a small flight of steps that leads up to the sun room. this multi level loft is quite impressive...spacious, opulent...clearly the doctor had good taste and this is where Morgan got HER good taste from. there were pictures of Morgan tastefully displayed around the area...pictures of her in various photo shoots and on the coffee table more intimate friends/family photos of Morgan with Alison and Delilah , and another shot of a young Karen holding a baby Morgan with father Christopher behind them both...in the days BEFORE MysTech blighted their lives. Morgan looked for all the world with the joy and innocence of a happy baby girl in that particular picture. >

I know about what happened to Sharon Kelly....and I'm so sorry. I saw Alycia on television last night..the whole world did---. The city was in chaos for hours...I'm fortunate that i dont have to venture out there today being saturday and all. Is Morgan okay?? i know she and Sharon were close.....

:: As Karen invited them to sit..as she seated herself across from them over looking the coffee table with the family/friends pictures. Karen awaited the details of what had happened.::

[Foxfire]

Everything in the elevator was a whirl of frenzied moves between the two angry women. Blaze obviously bitter about Alexis taunting her and her sister's death. You could say she had plenty of bottled up emotions to unleash. Somewhat passive - aggressive she was.

Pressing her fingernails in a more forceful while gritting her pearly white teeth. An almost psychotic look burning brightly in her dark amazon eyes. It was as if Blaze carried death in tow with her. The elevator continued its descend with the two. Keeping herself balanced and graceful, Blaze smirked at Alexis' painful expression. Ah, pain that was a start. We were getting places now.

Maybe in the past, Blaze would have been tender and gentle with Alexis. But not anymore, she was blunt and harsh with her fighting skills. It oozed ruthlessness, about as much as Alexis was now with that choker worn.

She perked a brow, awaiting for Alexis' retaliation but she was not prepared for what was about to come next. Alexis' hands slammed into her chest, shoving her backwards. Her back slamming into the back of the elevator cart. Her back would suffer a nasty bruise later on. She hissed with contempt with Alexis' arm coiling around her throat, pinning her there.

Reaching out with the palm of her hand to aim closely to Alexis' side. Charging her own natural heat frequency she was ready to fire a lava blast, which would easily burn her flesh to the bone. But before she could she felt a pair of lips meshing with her own. A deep frown creasing Blaze's bewitching beauty. Thrashing against Alexis like a bird trapped in a spider's - web. The feeling and aroma of Alexis' lip gloss on her beginning to manipulate the blonde's power more accurately. Her fingernails curved inward to claw into the woman's side.

An odd sensation coursing through her body. Blinking her eerie black eyes to focus her energy. Her senses reacting to Alexis' power the more their bodies touched. Her eyes fluttering closed a few times. Pain registering throughout her body like hot electricity.

Talk about the kiss of death, literally. Using the last bit of her energy Blaze bit down on Alexis' lower lip with the last fragment of strength she possessed. Her teeth breaking the skin open to spill a pool of fresh blood. Blaze wasn't going out without a fight, she always was a fighter.

Her knees trembled with her nerve endings tingling and firing off rapidly. Her complexion paling and her blue veins bulging throughout her face and throat. Her eyes wide with horror and agony. Yeah, she fantasized about locking lips with Ms. Alexis but this was certainty not that moment, more like a nightmare.

The bitter taste of blood dripping down onto her own lips, some along her top. Finally Alexis broke the kiss with Blaze dropping to the elevator floor in a heap. Laying on her side she attempted to move but she felt almost paralyzed. Why didn't Alexis just kill her? She could have.

Gasping for air, Blaze's athletic body shook with painful spasms. Her face pressed along the cold elevator floor. Fresh droplets of blood stained the floor where she had bitten Alexis' lip. Shutting her eyes, Blaze had no other options left but the realm of unconsciousness.

The elevator doors closed and up the box ascended with Blaze inside. Climbing floor after floor until it reached the top, Morgan's penthouse where Delilah was. It chimed with the doors opening. Laying silently was Blaze, Delilah being the cop she was would obviously hear the chime of the elevator and investigate.

Slowly regaining conscious, Blaze rolled onto her back. Massaging her left temple she felt as though she had run about twenty marathon's and then some. Dazed and confused, she sat up. Her hair a bit disheveled from the struggle with Alexis. Her back to the penthouse, climbing to her feet from the metallic railing surrounding the elevator cart.

Blaze turned around, holding tightly to that railing. She would have to repay Alexis for that lovely little power of hers. Stepping out of the elevator she was groggy than before. The elevator closed and descended once more.

Leaning up against the wall, she noticed she was in Morgan's penthouse. Suddenly, she wished she was unconscious. Anything was better than confronting Morgan's apartment. Her eyes weakly glancing at the picture frames, the assortment of luxury furniture, even old music cd's lay on the small table in front of her sofa, a Madonna cd. If Blaze wasn't so weak, she'd bolt for the elevator already.

Slumping down the wall weakly, she forgot all about Alexis. "Morgan.." She called, her voice quiet, above a whisper. The mutant knew Haleigh and Alison would probably be confronting Doctor Victoria around this time. A sparkle caught Blaze's attention, a piece of jewelry on the table. Reaching forward she scooped up the small Tiffany's tennis bracelet Blaze had purchased for her.

She smiled at the fond memory. Her thumb caressing the Tiffany engraving. Closing her fingers around the bracelet. Blaze couldn't believe Morgan was gone. "Maybe we'll meet up in Limbo...someday.." She tried to laugh but instead it came out as a sob. "Morg..." Her voice shaky again, "I can't DO this without you!"

[Harbinger]

:: Alison seated herself...she had a look of dismay that couldnt be hidden well at all as Karen spoke of Sharon and Morgan...was it possible that the woman hadn't sensed her daughter's death AT ALL? or was she just waiting for final confirmation and not telling them?::


::she wrapped her arms around her waist as she sat on the edged of the sofa...looking down..she slowly exhaled.::

Karen....there was a problem. Morgan...she was pulled through the Seige Perilous during the battle with Master Mold. She tried to push him through the portal in order to save us..and the city...and he wrapped tentacles around her as he was sucked in. Haleigh did everything she could to save Morgan...but the vortex of the Seige was irresistable and Master Mold's grip on Morgan was too strong.. We lost Morgan last night during the battle.

::Alison looked up at Karen, the look of dismay was plainly visible. her cobalt blue eyes conveyed a sense of profound guilt and sadness.::

[Jessica Hamby]

"I see her now." Haleigh said softly, in a detached tone. Alison looked cold and impersonal again, and very business like... but Haleigh said nothing about it... she knew it was Alison's way of coping. Alison blinked them to Karen's loft, and Haleigh shared the look as they stood on the doorstep. Were they ready for this?

"Doctor..." Haleigh greeted guiltily. She seemed to have been holding her breath, and looked, for all the world, like a caged tiger, distressed and pent up. She looked round the loft with interest, though she'd been here before, instead of making eye contact with Karen. Haleigh paused at the pictures of Morgan, her back to Karen, and lifted her hand to her mouth. She tried to clear the lump from her throat, but it stuck. She resigned only to sit next to Alison, and as Karen asked how Morgan was, Haleigh took a deep breath.

"We... have some bad news, Doctor, and there's really no easy way to say it..." She began, and looked to Alison for help... thankfully, Alison was right there to take over, and break the news to Karen as gently as she could. As Alison faded off, Haleigh picked back up... there was no way to know how Karen would react... but haleigh offered whatever comforting words she could to lessen the blow-- a futile task, sure, but all she could think of.

"Morgan... fought valiantly. She was devastated when Sharon died... she wasn't about to let any of the rest of us go." Haleigh didn't offer any more details about HOW Morgan died... or the last few moments of her life... Karen didn't need a graphic visual of her daughter's death with Haleigh's voice in her head telling her how it happened. Not after all that Karen had known her and Morgan had been through. Haleigh was the only one left in the group who'd had a truly rocky relationship with Morgan, even so much as they tried to kill each other. Cameron and Alexis had once had shaky relationships with Morgan, in the beginning.... but nothing trumped how Morgan and Haleigh had treated each other for so long. The thought further saddened Haleigh... she and Morgan had JUST begun to actually get along. How cruel destiny and fate could be.

[Shadow Weaver]

<< Karen looked at the two young women. She was silent and her facial expression remained the same for a moment.>>>

Karen:.....The Seige Perilous?.......Master Mold.....Morgan......MORGAN!?


<< her facial expression is that of shock...confusion as she begins to tremble as she clasps her hands together and looks up at the ceiling. her voice growing frantic>>

No....not my little girl....not after EVERYTHING WE"VE BEEN THROUGH AT THE HANDS OF MYSTECH!!


NOT MORGAN TOO!

<< she covers her face with her hands as she cries out>>

NO!! NOT MY BABY!!

<< she holds her hands to her temples...her fingers weaving through her hair as she cracks with shock and grief.....NO WONDER Morgan wasnt there with them.... she falls back in the chair...as she begins to sob...the feeling of ABSENCE she felt this morning...it wasnt because it was just saturday..it was because her daughter was gone. >>


After ALL THIS TIME....

<< the tears flow...a Mother's cries for her fallen child...one of the worst sounds and feelings there is>>

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah awoke in Morgan's guest room as if from a dream, her eyes fluttering open and adjusting to the bright morning light. She sat up in bed slowly, rubbing her eyes. She took a deep, calming breath. The fragrance of Ororo's bouquet invaded her senses and she looked to it's source. Pulling the note from the bouquet, her face fell.

It wasn't a dream...

She read the note, and as always Ororo was a reassuring and guiding influence in her life, whenever she appeared. Hands in her lap, she looked over at Tink, who returned her gaze with those penetrating eyes of hers. ]

"Well, Tinkerbell, it's a new day..."

[ She was giving the cat a gentle pat on the head when her ears caught something - a noise. The ding of the elevator. Who could be coming here at this time? The members of the Six all knew that Morgan would not be found here...

Delilah instinctively reached under her pillow...not finding the police issue 9 millimeter there as usual. Her feet landed silently on the floor next to the bed and she began to make her way into the spacious living room, her body crouched and ready to spring if necessary.

Then she saw the form slumped against the wall and breathed a sigh of relief. Now standing straight she started to admonish the mutant for giving her such a scare. ]

"Jesus Christ, Jas-"

[ She stopped. Something was not right. That was not Jasmine sobbing on the floor. ]

"Blaze?"

[Foxfire]

Caught up with her emotions, Blaze didn't even detect Delilah's approach. It was like a mute button was turned on. Delilah's voice shattering the silence, snapping Blaze out of it. Looking up, her tanned cheeks stained with tears. Sniffling quietly, she wiped her cheek using the back of her palm. Nodding at her name spoken by the blonde.

"Its me, D." Blinking her long lashes she noticed her friend's sleepy eyes. "Oh...I didn't know you were taking care of her penthouse." She wasn't ready to say 'Morgan,' it was just too painful.

"I know...your probably wondering what I'm doing here..." She paused, trying to calm herself. It was never a good sign when she sobbed and attempted to talk at the same time. "I don't know how...but Jasmine and I switched places...she's on another plane of existence. I'm alive again...only to come home without Morgan." She finally said the name.

"I didn't really mean to come up here...Alexis and I had physical confrontation. She was able to drain my life force, leaving me unconscious. And here I am....I saw Morgan's possessions and I lost it. Haleigh and Alison are coping in their own way but I'm NOT as strong as them. I cannot pretend this doesn't affect me. I was close with her, D...you know that more than anyone. But I'm glad I have you..."

Her eyes falling up to Delilah. "I must have startled you." The mutant nodded to the gun held in her hands. "I'm sorry." Rising to her feet, Blaze was a tad shorter than her friend. Instinctively she rushed forward throwing her arms around Delilah. Burying her face into Del's shoulder.

It was probably the most emotional break - down for Blaze Fielding. If anyone could relate it was Delilah. Both friends similar in ways but also stark contrasts.

[MorningStar]

[ Her own feelings forgotten, Delilah looked at her old friend sympathetically, seeing the pain that Blaze was experiencing. As Blaze moved toward her in such an uncharacteristic show of emotion, Delilah was a bit taken aback, but then instantly reacted to comfort her friend, Morgan's dear sister. ]

"Shh...Blaze...it's going to be alright. Let it all out."

[ She gently rubbed Blaze's back. What could she say to someone who just lost their sister without having a chance to even see her beforehand? She smiled in remembrance as a tear rolled down her cheek. ]

"You are so like her...always thinking you have to be strong for everyone else."

[ She pulled away from Blaze slightly so she could look her in the face, and wiped some of the tears from her cheeks. ]

"Come, sit down."

[ She put an arm around Blaze and led her to the sofa, helping her to sit. Delilah sat next to her and took her hand. ]

"I'm here for you, no matter the how and why's of your being here. You're my oldest friend."

[ Delilah left off what she was actually thinking - now. You're my oldest friend now that Morgan's gone... ]

"I'm glad you're here."

[ Delilah pulled Blaze into another hug. She hadn't realized how much better she'd feel having Blaze to help her get through this. ]

[Oracle]

<< Without even realizing it, Delilah begins to fullfill the role that Ororo told her she would play..but it would not be at the expense of Delilah's feelings or wellbeing...Ororo would make sure of that as well...as would the rest of the team. She was never the one who wanted to be a "super hero"...but her actions, her selflessness...her very nature often lead her to actions that prooved to be the best KIND of super hero. she was the ray of light in The Six....and it would show. Blaze and She would find new common ground between one another....their renewed bond as friends would honor Morgan's memory.>>

<< Mean while, across town, Doctor Karen Victoria was now in the throws of shock and agony. The full realization of her daughter's death...after ALL they had endured since MysTech blighted their paths...it was too much. She had lost her husband, her daughter..her whole family to MysTech. Now, with Alison and Haleigh there watching this elegant, sophisticated woman stripped raw by emotion....it was a heart breaking site to behold.>>


<< Alexis Quatermaine was making her way to Tempo. Unaware that she would be "captured" by Clandestine Inc. agents equipped to counter her powers. She was changing however....more and more fullfilling the destiny that Adam and Helena had often spoke of. With the mysterious choker adorning her neck..she was very much under the power of Helena's essence...which brought out the "malice" in her own soul. She was growing more and more distant from the team and THAT would exacerbate an already delicate situation.>>

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: The limo pulled up to the front of Tempo magazine, which was too, swarming with reporters and photographers who obviously anticipated Alexis' arrival. Slowing to a stop, Alexis ran her tongue along her pearl white teeth and let herself out of the vehicle; the press instantly swarming around her. ::

"Miss Quartermaine! Miss Quartermaine!! What are you feelings about Senator Kelly's death?!"

"Miss Quartermaine! How is Morgan Victoria taking the news of Senator Kelly's murder!?"

"Miss Quartermaine were you close with Senator Kelly?!"

"Miss Quartermaine what do you think of Alycia Barnett's statement last night about MysTech being the center of Senator Kelly's death?!"

"Miss Quartermaine! Miss Quartermaine!!"

:: Simultaneously questions flew at Alexis about what happened last night as the blonde pushed her way past the press and photographers and to the front doors of the Tempo building. Placing her hand on the handle of the massive glass doors that sported the Tempo Magazine's trademark "T" symbol, Alexis turned to the reporters and lifted her hand. The screaming and questions instantly halted. ::

"Senator Kelly's death was a shock to us all, and I’m sure she'll be missed by many. As for Alycia Barnett's hasty assumptions about MysTech being behind the death of Senator Kelly....Well, the Senator had many enemies who wanted her dead."

:: Alexis' large glasses shielded her eyes from the numerous flash bulbs that blinked at her as she gave her statement. Turning away from the reporters and photographers, they instantly began screaming and shouting more questions as Alexis made her way into the main lobby of Tempo. ::

"I want them gone by the time I leave."

:: The security guard by the entrance nodded and Alexis began to make her way toward the elevator to head up to her office. Spotting two men dressed like they were extra's from Men in Black, Alexis rolled her eyes realizing Haleigh probably sent her goons to escort Alexis back to Illustra. Continuing in the same quick walking pace, the men stepped in front of Alexis as she pressed her finger against the elevator button. ::

"Excuse me gentlemen.."

"Miss Quartermaine, I’ve been given strict orders from Miss Davidoff to escort you back to Illustra immediately."

:: Running her tongue along her lips, Alexis narrowed her shielded eyes at the man who spoke and paused. Allowing a forced smile to take over her lips, Alexis lifted her hand to her glasses and slowly removed them. ::

"Stan, right?"

:: Pointing the glass at the man, Alexis wrinkled her nose and nodded to herself. ::

"Yes, Stan. I remember you....You helped us make that quick get away from the Courthouse during the shooting. Oh, you were so brave--so heroic!"

:: Smiling from ear to ear, and speaking with an oh so sweet voice, Alexis watched as Stan lowered his head very slightly as a soft hue of pink overtook his cheeks. Chuckling lowly, Alexis ran her fingertips under the black lapels of the agents suit jacket. ::

"I bet you have all the ladies chasing you."

"Oh...well, I’m married, ma'am."

"Ooooh, well good for her. Too bad for the rest of us."

:: Laughing lowly hearing Stan laugh as well, Alexis gently patted the lapels before retracting her hands back and crossing her arms along her chest. ::

"Do you like your job Stan?"

"Yes ma'am I do."

"And I bet Haleigh gives you’re a hefty paycheck?"

"...Yes–Yes ma'am, she does."

"And I’m sure you spoil your wife rotten."

:: Grinning seeing Stan smile and nod, Alexis stepped forward now casting her eyes over to the other agent who stood motionless. Shifting her glance back to Stan, Alexis let out an exasperated breath through her nose and tilted her head to the side. ::

"Well, unless you want to use your next paycheck for the expenses to your wife's funeral..."

:: Alexis' chipper smile and happy-go-lucky facial expression instantly disappeared leaving only a look of utter disdain and cruelty. ::

"I suggest you and your little flacky STEP. Out. Of my way."

:: Stan's face instantly coward in shock as the elevator doors opened behind both him and his partner. A small gap began to open between the two men leaving Alexis enough room to push her way past them and into the elevator. Pressing the 102nd floor, the door's closed on Haleigh's men and ascended up to her office. ::

:: The doors opened within minutes and Alexis made her way straight through the main office and down the hall into her office; not bothering to speak or even look at anyone. Closing the door behind her, the blonde craned her neck back and sighed. ::

"Ugh, I need a vacation."

[Jessica Hamby]

Karen was stunned, and repeated Alison. Haleigh could only nod guiltily and confirm her worst fears.

"Yes, I'm afraid so."

Haleigh had hoped this wouldn't be so difficult, but in her heart she knew it would. Karen reacted, and the sound of a shocked, grieving mother only worsened the feelings of guilt she had. Her MIND knew that there was nothing more anyone could have done... but her heart darkened with the chilling idea that she was somehow responsible. Haleigh rose from her seat and crossed the sitting room. She couldn't think of anything to say to comfort Karen, but she remembered that when Alison held HER, it helped, if only a little, to know that you weren't alone.

She sat down next to Karen and gathered the weeping mother into her arms, looking across the sitting table at Alison, her eyes filling with tears.... but Haleigh could be strong when she needed to be, and the tears never fell. She still didn't say anything... the situation seemed beyond words. Haleigh was no stranger to loss, but she knew that no loss was as great or as crippling as that of a mother losing her child.

Haleigh ignored calls coming from Clandestine. She couldn't deal with that right now... if there were having problems, they were going to have to work them out... She would deal with them when she got back.

[Harbinger]

::Alison bowed her head with sorrow as Karen's grief began to manifest. she felt such pain and such guilt herself...much like Haleigh. As Titania went to Karen and sat with her..holding the the grieving mother, Alison looked at Haleigh from across the coffee table. She silently got up and went around to the other side..sitting on the otherside of Karent...and gently placing a hand on the doctor's back. Karen instinctively reached her right hand back to Alison and Alison took it in her own hand and held it.::

::Alison spoke softly::


We won't leave you alone Karen.....ever. We'll be here for you...the Six will always be here for you.....

::Haleigh could see Alison look upward toward the ceiling. The Seer shut her eyes tightly as tears rolled down her ceeks. Alison and Morgan were so close...it was like losing a sister. Karen was the mother Alison had never had...this was her family that replaced her own murderous family.::


::Alison and Haleigh sat there..and comforted the doctor as she cried for her daughter. the two women of the Six looked grief stricken themselves. it was their first and most difficult task they had embarked on as co-leaders of the team....doing it TOGETHER had certainly made it slightly more bearable...but seeing a mother grieve for her fallen child....its something that even the hardened soldier of war and the witch with with a marble heard heart couldnt have prepared for. They would be there for Karen now and even after...for the doctor was a long time ally of the Six...and in this uncertain time....the six would need to pull together and watch each other's backs as well as their allies::

[Foxfire]

All Blaze could register was heartache for her sister and Senator Kelly, but more so for Morgan. Flashbacks of Morgan, Delilah, and Blaze fell across her memory banks. Pictures of Morgan smiling and 'voguing' for the camera's. The fiery young mutant remembered like an Elephant. It was almost like it had happened yesterday. Morgan, her older sister and role model taken from her abruptly. There was no saying good - bye or 'I love you'; there was only dread and sadness.

As she cried into Delilah's shoulder, she felt a new ray of light warming her body. Her friend's sympathetic voice calming her frail nerves. Luckily, the other team members did not have to witness Blaze's break - down. She was in a way very similar to Morgan, her strength, independence, her zest for life. Although the two looked differently, both carried a lively soul and a warrior's spirit.

Her eyes tightly shut with her fingernails curving inward to pull on Delilah's shirt. She detested crying or even losing her 'game' but Morgan's death was so unexpected. It would take Blaze several long months to recoup, and even that was a guess.

You know that old saying 'be careful what you wish for?' Well, it finally came true, Blaze yearned to be human again. But it also seemed fate had second thoughts on how to balance this equation out. Pulling back a bit to stare into Delilah's eyes.

Usually Blaze knew what to say but she was speechless. She always carried a witty comeback for an insult, a word of encouragement to her friend and family, but now there was a black void. Her green eyes red and puffy but in a way they sparkled under the lighting of the sun. Its rays pouring into Morgan's penthouse, surrounding the two dear friends in warmth as they grieved for their fallen comrade.

Looking down at the flooring in Morgan/Delilah's house, she nodded at Delilah's compliment. "Your not the only one to say that...." Even Victor, their father compared the two sister's together. And even members of the Six did the same. Fire and Air both natural yet violent with enough force to destroy almost anything.

She unknowingly leaned into Delilah's arm for guidance to the sofa. Blaze was still recovering from Alexis' power drain. She had taken a lot out of her, leaving her with minimal energy. Side stepping the table, she moved to sit on the large sofa. Its cushions sinking in a tad with the both of them. Blaze sat in the middle and Delilah on her right.

"Thank you D, that means a lot. You were there for Morgan at my death and now your here for me with hers." Her thumb tenderly massaging Delilah's knuckle. The mutant looked so out of it, almost in a daze.

"I'm glad your here too, without you I'd be a crumble of ashes right about now."

She tried to force a witty smile, but came up empty. Leaning in she hugged her friend again. As impossible as this felt, Blaze felt nurtured and soothed by Delilah's gentle - soft words and her embrace in a hug.

Fox was almost sure she could cry an ocean for Morgan, maybe several. The tears flooded down her tanned cheeks again. Her vision blurry she was unable to see most of Morgan's knick - knacks and other accessories held in her possession. All was quiet in that penthouse except for Blaze's sobbing and her cries of agony.

We love you Morgan, rest in peace, my beloved sister. You will....be missed.

[Oracle]

<< that evening, Alison would advise Haleigh to return to Illustra while SHE stayed behind with Karen for the night. She did not want Karen to be alone at this horrible time....for now Karen's entire family..her husband and her only daughter had been destroyed by MysTech. It was was a painfull reality to accept and even someone as strong and formidable as this doctor could reach her breaking point at this time. Alison, who was like a daughter to karen, would make SURE that Karen did not face this alone...and she knew the rest of the Six would back her as well. Haleigh would return to Illustra and insure that the buildings security defenses and survielance systems were in tip top shape...without Morgan's magicks to bolster the defenses...Haleigh would have to make SURE the technology was adaptable to the evolving technology of MysTech>>

<< Delilah and Blaze linked by Morgan were helping each other through what would be a long and painfull grieving process...but as Ororo told Delilah...one step at a time. They would be there for each other and thereby help insure the GROUP remained healthy and connected together>>

<<ultimately the only uncertainty was Alexis, who not only showed depraved indifference..but a HOSTILITY towards the memory of Sharon Kelly and Morgan Victoria..women who had once networked with her and helped BOOST the Q rating of Tempo magazine. Something was wrong with the metahuman...the scope of which couldnt be guessed by anyone in the group at this time....>>


<< But for now, the time had come to prepare for the funeral of Sharon Kelly and the unfortunate task of the reading of Morgan's will...the next day would be full of tests and trials for the emotional and mental strength of this team and its allies.>>