Finding your way

[Oracle]

<< as evening once again settles over the sprawling metropolis that is New York City, a whole different section of business and population takes over for the night shift. through all of the traffic and sounds of activity, Illustra stands proud and tall, surrounded by its cutting edge, visually appealing "office park" that circles the ground of the building, illuminated by blue and white lighting.>>

<< inside on the now quiet crystaline main floor...only the faint hum of power is heard as cameras carefully hidden in corners slowly turn back and forth, sweeping over the area and outside as well. going up the many floors, most are silent and closed...but a few still have activity going on. Most notably Alycia Barnett on the 99th floor, followed by the 102nd floor where Nicolas is now attempting to settle in along with Persephone on the 104th floor who has been making renovations now for about a day.>>


<< there was nothing but space and opportunity for them all, but for Alycia, she felt that the "opportunity" to make the people responsible for Sharon's death PAY for it was more important than anything else and so while others were busy on other floors of Illustra, She was busy in her satellite office.>>

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Stepping off the elevator onto the 99th floor, Persephone had received a rather cryptic message from a woman named Alycia Barnett to meet her in her satellite office. She had recognized Alycia's voice, pin pointing her to being one of the woman whom she met at Ororo's castle after retrieving Spellbinder. Nevertheless it intrigued Persephone as to why she needed to meet with her considering they did not know one another. ::

:: Persephone's spiked heal dug into the soft carpeting as she made her way down the long corridor leading to Alycia's office. Dressed respectably in a black dress suite (http://www2.victoriassecret.com/images/prodlgvw/V256738.jpg), the goddess' normally waist length ebony locks were noticeably shorter and pulled back into a loose pony tail (http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b217/jackie0324/angelina-jolie-naked-2_018.jpg) and curled. Because she hadn't associated with anyone outside of Spellbinder, it was anyone's guess who Persephone actually was. Alison, Haleigh, and Blaze got a small taste of her more condescending side when first meeting the English beauty, but first impressions could very be twisted into a preconcerted image. Or could be absolutely true. ::

:: Coming upon two floor to ceiling double doors, Persephone's smokey highlighted green eyes scanned the small gold plate that read Alycia's name. Pursing her lips together, she gently tapped her knuckles along the oak stained wood before crossing her arms to wait. ::

[Foxfire]

Having gone supplies shopping and returning to Nicolas' old apartment, Blaze and Nicolas returned to Cameron's old suite. This was the suite where Nicolas would be staying now. And already hours had past as the two revamped the whole interior outlook of the room. It definitely resembled that of a rainforest with its thick jungle - like plants and small sprinkling water fountain in the center of the living room.

Standing back, Blaze took in the rest of Nicolas' new suite, "its a jungle in here." She remarked with a grin. Nodding at her approval, it seemed so tranquil here. Blaze added her own personal touches as instructed but it was mostly Nicolas' artwork that inspired her. Large exotic plants were assorted throughout the suite and plenty of other accessories to compliment this unique look.

"Mission accomplished." Blaze's assistance was helpful but even now it was her time to return to her place. "We can always keep adding little things here and there, but its definitely welcoming in here. Now you can get naked." She chuckled knowing Nicolas preferred to be bare naked.

"I must be returning to my suite soon. What else did you need?" She asked, moving to admire one of the paintings that hung in the living room. "You mentioned something of a surprise." She knew Haleigh would most likely be watching due to the surveillance camera's in Nicolas' new suite. Her keen sight locating a camera as she stared into the tiny red light. Blaze stared right back inside the camera knowing Haleigh was watching on the other end.

"Haleigh is a complicated woman, but even I love her as a sister. She's come along way from the person she once was....even I forget that. She and Alison are both so heavily guarded sometimes...its difficult to get through to them. But I know its just the same for them to get through to me. Haleigh is like an Eagle, she's high in the sky enshrouded in clouds but she can see you. I admire her for so many reasons....despite what happened tonight. It wasn't her fault and I don't blame her. She never knew the story of Gregory...nor will she ever unless I tell her. She's a survivor....but ever since Zack came into the picture I feel like I lost touch with her. I want her to be happy but I miss staying up until the early morning with her...discussing something random." Blaze looked down, recalling the memory. "She's so damn hard to read...yet I see right through her....I see what she's lost and what she must protect to keep her sanity. I wish she knew how I felt...but I doubt she'll ever know."

Stepping away from the corner of the room, she continued to speak. "And Alison is like a second older sister to me. What she revealed in Limbo was beautiful. She's a remarkable warrior, one I also admire. I wish I had her strength...her tenacity...I guess that's why I feel like an outcast. I'm some fire manipulator whose as flammable as her power. I wish I could be more stone - cold like Alison. Nothing gets to her...she's always on her game. I feel like the baby of the group anymore...the weak one."

Sitting down on the arm chair, Blaze looked down. "Delilah was right about me, I do take in "lost puppies." It bothered me because she was right on target. I blindly welcome anymore jeopardizing the team. As a telepath you can see my memories...you can see the horror I was exposed to. I killed a man when I was a teenager....he raped me....my school principal. My mother died as a result of delivering me, my father was a mad scientist, my foster families were mentally and physically abusive to me. All my life I've been locked up and shut out. When I see a person who wants a chance I remember what its like to be rejected...to be beaten until I welcome unconsciousness. I give back because I was never given a chance....I know what its like to be written off as a freak of nature or a rebellious troublemaker. I know what its like to be an outcast."

Looking up at Nicolas she watched his reaction. She was quiet now, settling into the nightlife of the city. Unaware Haleigh was still watching her like the eagle she described.

[Alycia Barnett]

:: Alycia was never one to relax...not when there was something to be taken care of. Coming back to earth, back to New York after Sharon and Morgan's deaths, and the disasters caused by Malice and Blackout, Alycia had found a new drive in herself. She no longer wished to disappear.::

:: she remembered her father and mother and how hard they worked to provide her with the opportunities she had. she remembered her father and how he died because of MysTech and how she made it her mission to destroy the insurance company that had denied him the medical care he so desperately needed.::

:: she realized shortly after returning to earth that if they couldnt bring Sharon back, then SHE could destroy anyone.. any agency who was involved in the making of master mold and that was what she intended to do.::

:: but she knew that the "money" and resources didnt lie within the state. she knew they had to many scruples and "codes of ethics." Prior to becoming the DA of NYC she had been a powerfull, lethal and FEARED private corporate attourney. It was during this phase of her career that she scored many notable and shocking company shake ups and dismantlings. It was also during this team that she had met many members of the Six outside of Morgan, Alison and Delilah. It was time for her to go back to that..back to her old self. The kind of woman who was truly RUTHLESS and intimidating. Of course, there was a danger to being CONSUMED by the desire to exact revenge as well.....::


:: Alycia had returned to Illustra, opting NOT to participate in the reunion. She had talked with the doctor and Karen understood her reasons. Alycia was now in her satellite office suite on the 99th floor. No one else was on that floor but her and she sat at her large, wrap round circular desk under concealed blue lighting.::

Cassadine Enterprises, they FRONT as a "building" and construction company in New York that services the eastern side of the United States, but they are IN FACT a global scale weapons/artillery distributor, manufacturer.


:: studying files containing starting information about a well known and "trusted" manufacturing company that had a LONG STANDING relationship with MysTech, providing Mystech with techonlogy that would make it able to topple even the united states military. it flew under the rader thanks in part to being insulated by a prominent senator named William Stryker, a rabid anti mutant/meta human politician. He used his influence and his money to push the company through various security check points set up by the SEC and financed many off shore manufacturing plants to enable smooth production of sentinels, as well as the master mold projet. ::

:: she glared at the files with a scowl on her face as she sat in her executive leather chair. wearing a simple, crisp, tailored white blouse that gave a playfull view of ample cleavage, and a blue, pin stripped tailored short skirt, along with sling back heels, Alycia looked sexy and chic even in business casual.::

:: she hadnt called Karen back since her return, nor had she bothered to call anyone else. she was too engrossed in her work. her mind was churning with the facts she had in front of her and she turned a bit in her chair and began to work on her plasma screen computer as well, typing at a high speed.::

:: an alert tone sounded off as sensors outsider her satellite office indicated the presence of a super powered being. Alycia was no idiot, she had several high end anti personnel devices designed into her office for her protection in addition to being trained in the use of small but powerfull fire arms and having received martial arts training from Delilah. She was as prepared as any normal human female could be in the presence of such powerfull beings.::

:: she looked at a monitor on her desk and saw who was waiting::

It's that new arrival, Persephone.

:: she pushed a button and Persephone could hear her voice over the intercom::

Come.

:: she sat back in her executve chair and leaned back, steepling her her two index fingers in front of her chin as she crossed her legs and waited for Persephone to enter the interior and her office.::

Have a seat, Persephone.

:: she spoke with a reasonably even tone as she looked the woman over.::

You're timing ....it wasnt the best, but I can take a break for now.

For your sake and the security of Illustra, I was asked by Alison to help you construct a background and an identiy to allow you to blend in this reality which you are now apart of.

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Alycia's voice echoed through the intercome placed next to the door, instructing Persephone to enter. Without hesitation, she pushed her way through the massive doors, striding into the large office. ::

"You wished to see me?"

:: Closing the doors to the office, Persephone turned and made her way to the chair pulled up in front of Alycia's desk. Sitting down, she immediately crossed her long legs, running her slender fingers along the hem of her skirt. Sensing the irritation in Alycia's voice, Persephone narrowed her eyes slightly, but brushed rude behavior aside once the attorney explained why she had been summoned. ::

"An identity?"

:: Adjusting herself in the large leather chair, the brunette took a rather deep breath in, contemplating the idea proposed. ::

"I suppose that is needed considering the current situation."

:: Agreeing to the plan, Persephone sat back and allowed her eyes to meet with Alycia's. With a calm expression, she lifted both her hands out gesturing in general. ::

"How is this going to work?"

[Alycia Barnett]

:: Alycia continued to lean back in her executive leather chair, noting the polished and poised presentation of Persephone. she was definately an intriguing woman, but if things were to remain "normal" around here, she'd probably end up being some mad woman just waiting to hand everyone over to Malice on a silver platter. who knew?::

:: breathing out as she moved forward in her chair to find a specific file, she finally found what she was looking for.::

yes, well this would be alot EASIER if we knew of your cross time alternate's genealogy in this timeline..a bloodline for a point of reference, but since everyone's return to Illustra, there's been little time to explore this.

:: Alycia paused.::

I surely hope Alison and the others don't make a habit of this. I'm not anyone's frickin secretary and I'd hate to have to inform them of that if they get too comfortable asking me "favors". i have my OWN agenda to attend to now.


:: sliding the document forward across the desk to Persephone. it was a file containing information and background on a woman, "Jane Doe" everything from where she was born, who her parents were, her education, employment history, driving record, voting record, credit status etc. ::

this is a personnel file. it is example of what we need to have on hand for YOU so that you appear to have ALWAYS been in this timeline. You're a wild card for the Six now because Mystech is not aware of your presence and t hey wont have any ready made defenses for you yet. THIS will allow you to function in society on the social and legal front.

Of course like the other's in the six..your information will be "hard to find" for most, and only accessed by those powerfull enough and connected enough to find it, but the bottom line is...you need to "put up a front" for the sake of appearences and security to this team.


:: Alycia was not expecting Persephone to grasp this concept right away, but she hoped the woman would not make this any more difficult than it had to be. Alycia was ALREADY compromising her integrity by using her well placed connections in the most powerfull agencies of government to do this for Persephone. it was something that only the most vital government and/or black ops agents had access to.::

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Reaching for the document, Persephone flipped the folder open scanning the contents of it as Alycia spoke. Nodding her head, she looked to the woman and shut the file. ::

"I will speak with Alison about this. Perhaps she will have a better insight about who my cross time alter is."

:: Placing the file back upon the desk, Persephone stood, smoothing out the front of her skirt. The meeting seemingly went well; no feathers were ruffled. But then again, Alycia gave no reasons for Persephone to become irritated or angry. It was give and take with the goddess. If people gave her respect, she would return the gesture. However if they became out of line, she would hardly hesitate to put them in their place. Unlike other members of the six team, Persephone didn't intentionally look to start fights. Nor would she easily become goaded by cattiness. But with the diversity within the team, who knew if that would change. ::

"If I find anything out from Alison I will inform you immediately."

:: Nodding to the attorney, Persephone side stepped away from the desk and made her way out of Alycia's office. Walking down the long stretch of hallway, although she had isolated herself from the others, she made a conscious effort to familiarize herself with Illustra, the team, and this timeline. ::

"Alison Marble."

:: Speaking out, a soft bell rang from the speakers placed in the ceiling above, and a computerized voice of a woman spoke out. ::

"Penthouse. 106th Floor."

:: Striding into the open elevator, Persephone tapped the 105th button and leaned back against the railing that lined the inside of the compartment. After a few moments, the doors finally dinged and opened, allowing the brunette to step out into the hallway. Walking to Alison's penthouse doors, Persephone immediately knocked. ::

[Rampage]

Nicolas looked down compassionately on Blaze as she poured out a bit of herself.

"Do not be too hard on yourself. You provide a balance that this team requires. Who know how this all would have gone had YOU not taken in the lost puppy, as they say. At best I would not be staying here and the relationship would be FAR more strained. At worst...I hate to think of how it could have turned out."

Nicolas took the hands of the fire manipulator and pulled her to her feet.

"Come with me. There is something I want your fire to do..."

Nicolas led her to the balcony. At the center was a small dark granite monument, two feet square and four feet high, with a place on the top for a flame.

"This is a small reminder of what I am here for. It is a monument to Senator Sharon Kelly and my father, Gustav Magnusson. It needs SOMEONE to light the eternal flame, and I was hoping that you, who have been a bridge for me from my life before to now, to do the honors."

Nicolas smiled at the mutant, waiting for her response...

[Foxfire]

As Nicolas pulled Blaze to her feet she walked with him to his own private balcony. She noticed the monument he carried to honor Senator Kelly Gustav Magnusson was lacking in a flame. A genuine smile broke over her facial expression.

"Nicolas, I'm touched you would ask me to light this monument for you. I think its a very noble thing to honor your father and Sharon. So my answer is yes."

Stepping closer to the granite, Blaze raised both palms. Her eyes cascading to her honey - yellow orbs. Her body temperature rose around herself and Nicolas.

"To Sharon and Gustav, we honor your spirits and memories. Rest in peace my friends, and although you both are gone you'll never be far from our hearts."

Blaze's hands lightened to a bright orange / red tint while she wielded her own fire power. The small flame engulfing both her hands. Hurling both hands into the elevated platform that would hold her flame. The flicker of her fire blast was shot forward with the platform wielding it harmoniously. The flame radiating almost a blue aura with a yellow backdrop. The fire quietly cracked and warmed both Blaze and Nicolas.

Blaze stared into her own fire blast, recalling how fiery Sharon fought for mutants all over the world. "Sharon will be missed, but her memory will live on forever by this flame of eternity. Your father's hard - working ethics will not go unnoticed either. This flame will signal in a way their own lively spirit they once had. Whenever you feel uncertain or lonely, this flame will remind you of two people you love, that despite the realm they now live upon they will look after you and continue to love you as if they were here with us."

Stepping back to give Nicolas room now to honor the Senator and his father. She was deeply touched at his idea to honor Sharon and Nicolas' father, it was a great moment. Blaze only wished Haleigh and Alison could see this.

[Rampage]

As Blaze ignited the flame, at the front of the monument the granite was carved so that the light shone through it, revealing these words:

Gustav Magnusson Sharon Kelly

You will be missed, but you will never be forgotten.


"Thank you for doing that for me Blaze. That makes the monument all the more special. It is only fitting that a member of the Six be a part of it, and for that person to be you. I hope Alison willl trust me enough to come see it one day. I trust that Haleigh has already seen it."

Nicolas stood and just watched the flame for a few moments. He then turned back to Blaze.

"I know that you said that you needed to get back, so I will hold you no further. I was hoping that maybe later we could hit your club again. I actually have a business proposal in terms of that. Also, we need to set up our schedule for therapy. But I most of all want to thank you for everything. You have been a true friend and for that, I am grateful. Never forget, if you need me and you think about it hard enough, I'll be there."

Nicolas turned to walk back into the great room. He turned around and around, grinning as he took in what the area had been tranformed into. He could not be more pleased.

[Harbinger]

:: That evening, On the 106th floor of Illustra, down the long hall way and within the large, always dark luxury apartment of Alison Marble, the scent of vanilla could be detected, as it flowed through the dimly lit , multi level, spacious quaters. Alison herself was in one of her several rooms, sitting cross legged as she floated up off the floor and seemed to be meditating. Madonna's Shanti Ashtangi played in the air...its dreamy, mystical and entrancing melody seemed to provide the perfect background for Alison as mystical blue orbs overed around her. Wearing a black silk Kimono mini dress with silver accents, Her blue/black hair was down and flowed slowly behind her. ::

:: having slept peacefully for several hours, Alison felt refreshed and centered, she now took this opportunity to dedicate herself to a "mental/spiritual" tune up....getting her mind right, refocusing her powers and looking ahead to her goals in the near future. She was getting more and more back to her solid ground.::

:: time passed and she felt perfectly attuned to the space around her beyond illustra, all time threads were easily viewed, and her powers were now attuned to her new mental state since returning to Limbo. as she finished her meditation/ "tune up"....a chime sounded. someone was on this floor and at her door!::

::without opening her eyes, she "saw" Persephone arriving. she wanted to talk about building an identity and she had already seen Alycia moments ago. Alison opened her cobalt blue eyes. her facial expression was that of slight irritation. It was RARE that she invited visitors to her floor...even her own team mates::

:: disengaging from her position, Alison waved her hand and the music faded out and there was now silence. She needed no stronger light to find her way to the doors, for she knew the layout of her own space. she came to the door, still wearing the black silk kimono mini dress which revealed her own long, toned legs. ::

:: opening one of the double doors, she greeted Persephone. Persephone would see how DARK it was inside...the coldness in the air, and Alison's own cobalt blue eyes staring at her ..they almost seemed to glow in the darkness::

Persephone.

:: she said in a low, cold tone as she stood aside and allowed Persephone to step in.::

You've just been to see Alycia. What can i do for you?

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Persephone could hear music rumbling from Alison's penthouse; what sounded like a familiar Madonna song. It was strange how different this timeline was from her own; but the small similarities seemed to balance everything out. The music abruptely stopped, noting Alison obviously knew she was here. Stepping back from the large door, she unfolded her arms that were crossed along her chest, watching as the massive door opened. Noting the darkness within the room, the goddess very much appriciated it. How cold and distant everything felt. Stepping forward as Alison invited her in, Persephone glanced around the darkened space. ::

"Yes. Alycia informed me about how it's required that I have an identity in this timeline."

:: Turning to Alison, she was unaware if her icy exterior was directly aimed toward her, or is Guardian was normally this cold. She voted for the latter. ::

"I need to find my cross time alter in order to take over her life. I sought you out knowing your abilities to see throughout all time and space."

:: With her eyes now adjusted to the darkness of the penthouse, Persephone turned from Alison and allowed herself to study the home further. It was tastefully decorated; although not of her taste. A little larger than her own penthouse, probably purposely. ::

"Will you assist me?"

:: Turning back around, Persephone stood tall, her weight resting on one leg as she awaited Alison's answer. ::

[Jill Monroe]

<< on the top floor of Illustra, things were very quiet and peacefull in the sprawling, multi level penthouse that belonged to Morgan Victoria, the recently returned Spellbinder.>>

<< Morgan herself did not have the same emotional connections to anything or anyone post Seige Perilous...parts of her had already been rearranged or transformed by the mystical cosmic gem but because the process had not been COMPLETED, there was still a chance for her to recover.>>

<< she had recently had a "reunion" with her friends and family in The Six but it caused her some anxiety and she retreated. It was the first necessary step on her road to recovery.>>

<< Now, several hours later, it was dark and her mother, Dr. Victoria, who was here as a guest to help her daughter recover was now asleep. Morgan silently wandered through her own penthouse, room to room, floor to floor...touching things, inspecting things, trying to remember, trying to understand. Her familiar, a beautifull siamese named Tinkerbell, followed along silently while her other kitten lay with the Doctor. >>

<< after a while, she found herself back in her camber of dreams. she was wearing a violet hued sheer, corsetted night gown which accentuated her ample cleavage and fit, feminine frame..with a flowing sheer robe to go with it and a breeze flowed t hrough her chamber of dreams causing her dreamy, sexy outfit. her blonde, double highlighted hair flowed a bit as she stepped to the to the rounded step leading up to the crystaline doors and out to the large balcony.>>


<< out on the balcony, into the dark, starry night sky, the sorceress stood, the mild air flowed over her as she closed her eyes. at such a HIGH point above the city...should she not be able to make the most of it?>>

<< she remembered what her mother and Ororo told her about her powers, her heritage. among them, she could FLY and at high speeds. She hadnt tried her powers since being back on earth...but as she stood here, in the night air, in her outfit, she felt the increasing sense of courage and curiosity.>>

Ororo: you can fly, as fast and as focused as any wind...if not FASTER. Just like me!

<< the power was hers...so why not TRY IT? closing her eyes..and taking a deep breath, Morgan took her position before JUMPING up and over the balcony, with splendid form like that of an olympic diver, she spread her arms out and let caution go as a chime sounded off. She began to FLY!>>

<< diving down at first, Morgan swung upward, climbing faster and higher as her outfit flowed and her hair flowed as well. she laughed out loud as she experienced the sensation anew...flying as the winds bent to caress her form, she circled around Illustra once, not aware of who might see her that high up..including Blaze and Nicolas who were out on his new balcony. She made one final pass before taking off to the north, AWAY from the building and just FLYING!>>

[Foxfire]

Enjoying the tranquility of Nicolas' suite and his calming demeanor, she stepped inside with him. Her eyes sweeping over how lively the apartment had become, it really fit Nicolas in the mutant's opinion.

"No need to thank me, Nicolas. I'm glad to help out a friend and a teammate." She slyly winked over to him. "I'm sure Alison will come around, she's a hardass at first but even she has a soft side. Everything will find its way in time."

She smiled at the invitation to return to XS. "I don't know if that's wise your a dance hog." She giggled in a teasing gesture. "I'm sure we could return later on, I have a few priorities to attend. A business venture? Well, I'm intrigued by this."

Admiring the spider plants that hung with thick vines catering around Nicolas' fireplace. Blaze nodded in agreement. "Usually night time is more appropriate for me for our therapy. Let me know a time, we could begin tomorrow night if you like."

Running a hand through her chocolate locks, Blaze smiled sheepishly at him. "If we're hitting up XS, I have to look presentable. A nice bubble bath and some candles is exactly what I need. I'll tell you what, we'll meet up back here in an hour? Then we'll head off to the club and we can discuss that business venture of yours."

Something of a blur flew outside almost like a shooting star. Looking closer, Blaze saw it was Morgan! Running outside to the balcony, her green eyes going wide.

"Morgan! Get back here."

She called out, noticing her sister disappear through the thick clouds. Picking up her cell phone she called Haleigh to inform her of this, even if both weren't on friendly terms. The phone rang, awaiting for Black Widow to answer.

[Rampage]

"Blaze, an hour would be perfect. I have grooming of my own to..eh?!!!"

As Blaze called after Morgan Nicolas could tell that it was indeed her...he had no mental contact but he noticed the psi-screen and his TK "recognized" her form. She was flying at high speed off to the north.

"I have a lock on her position as she moves. If you guys like, I can teleport to intercept her, or any of you if need be. For now, any bystander that happens to see her will simply think it's a large bird."

[Foxfire]

Watching Morgan like a hawk, Blaze found Haleigh wasn't answering her phone. "Damn!" She cursed harshly while looking over Nicolas. "I can't wait for the others, I must retrieve Morgan before she places herself in any more danger. Nicolas, continue to use your telekinetic powers over manipulation. Cast some sort of illusion, when I go out there use an image of a falling star or something."

Jumping up upon the black sterling railing, Blaze found her sister sailing through the clouds like she had been flying for the first time. "I need to try to reach Morgan, if we teleport her here she may be on the defense. I'll be back."

Blaze's body engulfed in flames like that of a Human Torch. Her green irises disappearing to reveal yellow piercing eyes. Lunging forward with her arms widely spread, Blaze was able to softly glide through the air. Inhaling a few breaths she went in search of Morgan.

"Morgan."

She called out gently, careful not to spook her sister. Ascending through the murky sky of clouds, Blaze's flaming body glided past a few flapping geese who squeaked loudly. Morgan's unique heat signature giving off her position like a heat seeking missile.

Looking around as the air currents blew the mutant northerly. "Morgan, its Blaze." She wasn't entirely sure Morgan would remember but she had to try. Blaze needed to get Morgan out of the public eye even with Nicolas' illusion. Another whirl of movements and a laugh was overheard through the cool air.

Swooping down, Blaze was gaining on Morgan. She hoped to catch her sister and soon, who knew what lay outside at night, especially Malice.

[Harbinger]

:: Alison noted Persephone's more regal and polished presentation as opposed to when they first met. Clearly she was adapting to her new environment. she saw echoes of her OWN stone cold persona in Persephone. This made her far more tolerable than when they had met in her timeline of Limbo.::

:: Persephone confirmed what Alison already had known as for her purpose.::

Come.

:: Alison lead her through the spacious, multi level luxury apartment. The cold, dark and almost haunting environment seemed to appeal to Alexis.::

It is within my power to see all things in all times and places...no matter how remote. Including being able to find any possible bloodline that can be connected to you or any "version" of you.


:: there were now in a circular, enclosed area filled with various talismans, magickal artifacts, books etc. it was a mini version of an apothecary similar to what Ororo has. it was the first indication that there was more to Alison than her just being a witch and a seer who was a member of this team. Her whole living space suggested solitude, an identity OUTSIDE of her role in the Six.::

:: Alison stood, and began to "look" outward. her eyes now glowing solid white as she "searched" through the timelines of this reality. an eerie sound could be heard in the air while this was happening. ::



Ava Cassadine.

:: Alison spoke outloud as her eyes continued to glow solid white::


Daughter of Stavros Cassadine who runs Cassadine Enterprises. That is your bloodline in this timeline

This company, which is the top weapons dealer throughout the world, is known heavily for their involvement with MysTech. Cassadine Enterprises uses cutting edge technology to produce the newest and most high tech weapons and ammo, such as 'black oil' laced bullets, silver nitrate laced bullets, UV ray laced bullets. (think Underworld bullets). They aren't souly tied with MysTech (also produce weapons for other countries, including the US government), meaning they should not be looked at as enemies, but they're mainly involved with them for financial purposes. They are involved in nearly every major government on the globe but as a shadow presence, purely profit driven.

::Alison realized that she had discovered something that ALYCIA had just latched on to. The same company was responsible for the construction and design of the cutting edge weapons technology for Master Mold!::

::Alison's eyes reverted back to normal, as she looked at Persephone.::

it would appear that your cross time altnernate had a round about connection to MysTech. the same company that your "relative" is heiress to, is the same company responsible for the monster that murdered our ally Sharon Kelly.

I may have found the identity for you to assume, but beware, the cold shadow of revenge looms large over Cassadine Enterprises.

:: Alison was referring to Alycia, but Persephone didnt know what Alycia was planning, nor would she tell her. If they were aligned with Mystech, in ANYWAY..then they needed to be brought down.::

[Rampage]

As Blaze flew forward Nicolas saw a better image. He projected an image of Blaze as a bolt of lightning. Three or four of those and he was able to rely on the clouds to provide cover for her. He teleported a little water from the Bay and allowed it to fall from the sky, simulating a small but nasty cloud. He stood stock still as he allowed his astral form to rise, locating Alison in her apartment with Persephone.

"Ladies, I apologize for the interruption but Morgan has left Illustra, flying at a high rate of speed to the north. We tried contacting Haleigh but did not get anyone, so Blaze has flown off towards her.I am covering their flying with illusions but I thought you would want to know immediately. Please advise."

Nicolas' astral form left quickly, returning to his body at the balcony.

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Following Alison into the 'mini apothecary', Persephone stood silently as she observed Alison. Her eyes went white, indicating that she was indeed using her powers. Ava Cassadine. Narrowing her eyes, the name was of Greek decent which didn't surprise the goddess. Continuing to listen as Alison explained Ava's involvement in the world, obviously the company was involved with the same people who killed Spellbinder. ::

:: Parting her lips, the visions were over and Alison's eyes returned to their icy colbalt state. Looking upon the woman she warned Persephone right out that once taking over Ava's identity, concequences would arise from the Cassadine's involvement with MysTech. ::

"From what i've learned, MysTech is your version of the Guardians of Light. A unite in which is sought out to destory the six and those involved with the team."

:: Again taking it upon herself to research MysTech, it was a ruthless company in which causes much pain and havoc to many of the people associated with the six. They killed a woman named Sharon Kelly who fought for mutant and meta human's, and nearly killed Alycia Barnett as well. They were also involved with Spellbinder's death. ::

"I can easily sway Cassadine Enterprises over to our side. I'll murder Stavros Cassadine and oversee the company alone."

:: Murdering for personal gain was something Persephone wasn't opposed to. In fact she found it to be the most effect method to getting what she wanted. But perhaps her straight forward attitude about murder would shock those involved with the six. But nevertheless, Persephone came from a different time which obviously showed. But one thing was certainly clear, she was extremely savvy and understood how to handle herself and be a leader. She was a Dire Wraith for the Masters of Evil after all. ::

:: As Persephone addressed Alison, Rampage suddenly appeared informing the woman that Spellbinder was out flying around New York City. Raising a brow to the man, he seemed rather...interesting to say the least. Watching as his astra form disappeared, Persephine inhaled deeply. ::

"She needs to feel the freedom that she fears she has lost. I wouldn't interfere."

:: Pursing her lips, Persephone glanced to one of the windows that was afar. ::

"But of course, you know her better than I."

[Harbinger]

::Alison listend as Persephone was more than prepared to assume this identity AND even help deal with the threat of Cassadine Enterprises as a powerfull ally to Mystech, but when it came to her idea of outright murdering Stavaos, Alison knew this wasnt the best course of action. NOT because it was "wrong" but because it would directly interfere with Alycia's plans, which ultimately would gain her the revenge she wanted AND benefit Persephone as well. but before the Seer could speak, Nicolas appeared via astral form.::

::Alison turned to look at his astral form, a look of irritation over her face as he just INTRUDED into her personal space. She would speak to him about this later...but for now, she listened as he informed both women that Morgan was now flying through the night skies and that Blaze had gone after her. THAT was the worst descision the two of them could have made and Persephone seemed to demonstrate a deep perception of her own as she vocalized what Alison was thinking.::


Agreed.

:: she addressed Nicolas::

Morgan is in no danger. She is flying TOO HIGH in the night sky to be seen by any normal human eye. Sending Blaze after her...was not a smart move. She is already wary of Blaze because of what she felt earlier. Call Blaze BACK immediately before Morgan attacks her.

Let her be. Morgan wants to experience freedom, she wants to EXPLORE and learn about herself and her powers. She took off from her balcony to see if what her mother and Ororo told her was TRUE. No matter WHERE she goes, I'll be able to "see' her. and if for some reason she gets into trouble and I am not able to reach her in time [VERY unlikely], she has the power to teleport..that is her BASIC power and will activate either by will or by instinct/emotion.

[Rampage]

Working quickly, Nicolas did as he was asked. He teleported Blaze away from Morgan and met her above the clouds.

"Alison is concerned that our earlier meeting will make it likely that you will be attacked by Morgan, and needlessly, as it is her opinion that Morgan is too high up to be easily seen in the night sky. I was asked to retrieve you before Morgan feels threatened by you and responds hastily. Let us return to Illustra. Alison is monitoring events as we speak."

[Jill Monroe]

<< As Morgan moved through the night sky, high above and beyond the reach of any normal human, she enjoyed the rush. it was like being on a wild high speed roller coaster with no restraint. But even as she reveled in this new sensation, of being able to move like few others could....her private joy was soon interrupted by someone.....the one called Blaze Fielding>>


<< This other woman who was Morgan's sister...the one with the bad vibes was now FOLLOWING HER. Morgan didnt like this at all>>

YOU?

<< she narrowed her eyes with hostility as she circled around, and began to charge toward Blaze>>

WHY are you following me? HOW DARE YOU come here! i wanted to be ALONE! I wanted to enjoy myself!

<< thunder rumbled, a sign that Morgan was getting upset, JUST as Alison had predicted>>

[Foxfire]

Gliding through the air like an Eagle soaring through the brisk skyline. Blaze couldn't help but also enjoy herself up here. She couldn't recall the last time she went gliding with Morgan except during the Sentinel altercation.

A suctioning wind was heard with the mutant disappeared from sight, due to Nicolas' teleportation. She was about to inquiry why he had teleported her away. But Nicolas beat her to the punch. Nodding at the news she was prepared to return to the safety of Illustra when Morgan's icy voice addressed her.

She saw her sister's violet eyes narrow and begin to glare at her. Placing her hands up in a sort of surrender motion. "Morgan, its Blaze...your sister." She tried to console any hostile feelings she was feeling.

Blaze's green eyes following her sister's movements. She's circling me like that of a lioness, she thinks I'm hear to harm her? She thought to herself.

The wind shifted as Morgan dashed for Blaze whose eyes nearly bugged out. Morgan was coming right towards her. Zipping off to the side to side - swipe Morgan to avoid a collision. Blaze continued to hold up her hands.

"I saw you flying and I was worried about you. I couldn't risk any humans spotting you. I followed you out here, I'm sorry. I meant no harm or intrusion."

A clap of thunder foreshadowed Morgan's emotions. Gliding backwards to supply space between herself and Morgan. "I only came to check on you, but I'm returning to Illustra." Blaze kept a careful eye on Morgan, wary of her emotions, and how easily provoked she could be.

[Jill Monroe]

<< As Morgan lunged for Blaze, the mutant was taken away by Nicolas. Morgan missed her intended target and looked around furiously to see if she was nearby.>>

hmph.

<< hovering in the night sky, the winds whishtled as they blew all around the sorceress>>

how did she find me? are they ALL watching me like this? its none of their business what i do!

<< she shook her head as she remained agitated. all she wanted to do was experience something that she could control, to revel in the freedom of flying>>


I'll go back when i'm good and ready!

<< she huffed with annoyance, taking off once more, and flying around. As she soon returned to a calmer state, she began to play a bit, doing wide loops, turns and other fancy patterns in the air. She soon forgot about Blaze and returned to enjoying herself.>>

<< a little time passed and she began to think about her mother>>

my mother...she'll be looking for me in a while. perhaps its time i head back now.

<< looking around, she realized she was over water, she had flown very far out. it was later now than when she had set out.>>

have to get back...

<< she began to grow a little anxious, wondering how fast she could make it back. but then she remebered, she could move faster than the speed of light. with a "light circle"...or a "STEPPING DISC" as Ororo called them. they were her's to command. now she just had to summon one.>>

<< still a bit giddy from the fun of flying through the air, Morgan concentrated...and thought of her chamber of dreams. she thought more and intently and in the twinkling of her eye, a crash of thunder heralds the opening of a stepping disc. she teleports from where she is BACK to her chamber of dreams, the disc opens above her bed and she falls through, landing on the bed and startling Tinkerbell. the disc closes as she looks up and exclaims with excitement>>

Oh wow!! I DID IT!

They were right!!!!

<< she sat up, smiling with joy and there stood HER MOTHER in the door way...>>

ulp..


<< Morgan looked at her mother, who had a very disapproving look on her face. >>

[Rampage]

Nicolas teleported them back again to his balcony. He sighed heavily before turning to Blaze.

"Ooookaaaay. Look, let's get cleaned up and get out of here. It's obvious that they have things under control. If it turns out that they do not, then we can help. Besides, you wouldn't want to keep your new friend waiting, would you?? And I have an idea for you as well. If you're still game, I'll see you in an hour."

Nicolas began to walk towards his bathroom area, stripping off his clothes as he went.

[Foxfire]

A long sigh of relief had been released from Blaze. She and Nicolas had returned to his suite unharmed by Morgan. But, Blaze was troubled by her sister's hostility towards her. It was difficult for the mutant to see her older sibling this way.

"Morgan practically welcomed Alison with open arms earlier. But she seems me and I'm considered a threat! What's wrong with that picture." She huffed, Blaze could only hope this was a temporary setback. "What if she hates me? Morgan's never tried to intentionally hurt me."

She looked up at Nicolas. "Thank you for assistance. I can only imagine how irritated Alison sounded." She smirked, recalling how flabbergasted the Seer could get.

"I was thinking of throwing a benefit party for Morgan, but it would also honor Sharon. A while ago I mentioned it to Alycia and she favored the idea. That was when Morgan had passed away or we thought she was dead. I was hoping to unravel it next month, but maybe its too soon."

After discussing a few more topics, Blaze slipped out of Nicolas' suite to return to her own to prepare for tonight at XS. She grinned, so he knew about Vivica huh? Blaze wasn't meeting her at the club, although she could phone her to invite her. She'd think more about it later.

[Shadow Weaver]

<< standing in the door way to Morgan's chamber of dreams in her black flying suit w/cape, the doctor had her arms folded as she looked upon her daughter, watching her falling down through the stepping disc>>

<< the doctor was HAPPY that her daughter had made such a big step toward recovery, but not at all thrilled with the way Morgan left without at least TELLING her for her safety.>>

well! looks like we had ourselves quite an adventure didnt we?

<< she raised her eyebrow at her daughter who was still flushed with success from teleporting. She watched as Morgan was about to give some put together explanation and she raised her hand to indicate that Morgan need not bother. >>

Alison called me, I already know what happened.

Morgan, you're a grown woman. In you're own house, and i certain can't nor do i WANT to tell you what to do, but inspite of all that, you're still in RECOVERY right now. If you are able to start accessing your powers, that's WONDERFULL, but you've got to be carefull and cautious. I need you to tell me if and when you plan on leaving just in case anything happens. Now that you're back, it's only a matter of time before your ENEMIES realize that too. Neither I nor the The Six can help or protect you if we don't know what's going on.


The more you begin to recover and slip back "INTO" your life as it were, the less you'll need me here and the less it will be an issue of someone else protecting you as you are MORE than capable of protecting yourself once your powers are fully accessed. You're well on your way though, Morgan and tonight prooves it. Just be carefull and show a little consideration for your mother next time okay?

<< she smiled as Morgan nodded sheepishly. turning around, the doctor left, leaving her daughter to ponder the events of the evening and what lay ahead for her.>>

[Rampage]

Nicolas saw the young mutant off and finished undressing. He stepped into the tub he was running and took a few minutes to relax a bit. He was sure that Alison would have something to say about his interruption. He reminded himself to just listen and then do what he thought was right.

He put on a pair of khaki slacks with a black and khaki print silk shirt to match. He allowed the first couple of buttons to remain unbuttoned, so as to display a bit of his flawless musculature. Once he finshed grooming, he looked at the clock. It was almost an hour since Blaze had left and he "called" out to her playfully.

Hey you, are you ready yet or must I storm your floor??? I'm sure whatever you have on looks fantastic, just make sure you are ready to keep up. I am ready to seriously let off some steam.

[Harbinger]

:: Alison stands in her mini apothecary, after addressing Nicolas, and watching his astral form depart, she looked back at Persephone.::

:: not one to dispense compliments often, Alison felt that she should...if only this once.::

a keen observation on your part about Morgan. I trust Ororo and Karen, I think they know what's best for Morgan and the whole idea of bringing her back here was to allow her to ease BACK into her life. Tonight actually represents major progress for her.

:: she pauses, before returning to her original topic::

about Stavros and Ava. Killing Stavros will actually do more harm than good in the over all scheme of things in the most likely time thread as i have seen. It will be better if you take on this identity and then you will find an ally in achieving your goal which will also help US deal another crippling blow to MysTech.

::Alison did not reveal that Alycia would be instrumental in more than just helping her to get her new "identity" but that they would be working together to bring down Stavros in a most hard way.::

You'll want to contact Alycia tomorrow morning so that you can get started with the process. and now if you'll pardon me. I have another matter that I must attend to now.

::she said in a cool tone. not rude, just direct and to the point as she walked Persephone to the double doors.::

Contact me if you need any other questions answered. Goodnight.

:: Alison bid her farewell as she closed the doors quietly and turned around, heading back into her luxury apartment. she was seconds away from appearing in front of Nicolas via her "floating cobalt blue eyes" signature and scolding him. BUT she thought about it and she remembered what Karen said. She didnt have to be TOO hard on him if it wasnt warranted. and he was only thinking of Morgan's well being when he contacted her.::

:: she closed her eyes, and simultaneously, a pair of floating cobalt blue eyes opens before Nicolas. her cold voice heard in the air around him as it reverberated::

Nicolas, i appreciate your being so alert and astute, but next time, if you could just CALL or contact me through the intercom, that would be preferred.

[Foxfire]

Enjoying herself a bubble bath and softly lit scented candles. Blaze found her spirit and her chi tranquil. Laying back in the tub, a glass of whine next to her. Enya's soothing Celtic voice rang in the background only assisting in her mood change. Her head was styled in a side bun for the moment, with some loose trestles layered around her nude shoulders.

She thought about Morgan's violet eyes and the glare they casting earlier. Obviously even talking to Morgan was a worthless cause, but she didn't attack. Her eyes moving to her wall clock to see she had half an hour to get dressed and ready. Sighing, Blaze grabbed her Motorola phone dialing Vivica's cell.

Shutting her phone completely, Blaze unplugged the bath as currents of water were suctioned out. Climbing out she reached for a plush white towel to wrap around her athletic body. Bubbles falling down her wet body in slow motion. Toweling off and lotioning, Blaze took her whine glass before returning to her room.

Changing into a pair of black hip huggers with a baby blue turtleneck. Grabbing a pair of large hoop silver earrings and her timberlands. She was feeling more laid back tonight. Styling her hair to a soft curl, she wore it down. Applying a bit of make - up and some lip gloss, she was ready.

Grabbing for her purse and her key she walked out of her apartment. Walking to the elevator Nicolas' voice broke through her thoughts. She smirked at how anxious he was to get out.

I'm coming, I'm in the elevator now. I'll be at your floor in seconds."

Arriving at Nicolas' door, Blaze knocked politely.

[Rampage]

"Sorry about that Alison, I will have to commit the numbers to memory. I will do it immediately. Thank you for your patience."

Nicolas watched as the eyes faded from view. He really did appreciate her being considerate, it would have easy for her to attack in that situation.

Blaze responded to him as he decided to put on his black Doc Martens. Within a minute he heard Blaze knock at the door. He opened the door and took a look at her as she stood there in her dressed down getup.

"Well aren't you simply beautiful tonight, I if may say so. Just how I like my women, tough AND sexy. Tonight you get to be the bodyguard, OK?!"

Nicolas laughed as he joked with the mutant. She had a lightness about her that made him at ease. He only hoped that he could become as close to the others one day, but he put those thoughts away quickly. Tonight was a night to have some fun, and he was looking to milk every ounce of enjoyment from it.

[Foxfire]

The door opened to reveal Nicolas grinning over to her. Blaze’s eyes falling down his attire with approval. "Don’t we look dashing, I’ll have to bring a pistil to ward off the ladies. But I suppose I can play the bodyguard tonight, I can tell your dying to let loose. And thank you for the compliment" She laughed, reaching out for his smooth hands.

"Let’s get to it, I booked us a driver for the evening, that way neither one of us has to drive if we happen to be intoxicated." She winked slyly at her friend, leading him to the express elevator. Sitting outside was a white stretch hummer that easily seated forty people.

The driver standing outside politely, opening the door for Blaze who approached with Nicolas. "Thank you, Robert." She flashed him the ‘melt your heart’ smile she was known for. Climbing inside the lights inside the limo were a sparkling violet, adding to the ambiance. Cherish’s ‘To it, do it’ played throughout the hummer. Stretching out across the leather seating, Blaze reached for the bottle of chilled vodka. "Screwdriver?" She asked, pouring the clear liquid into a glass while adding orange juice.

"Everyone can be so uptight sometimes." She was regarding the team, ever since they returned everyone was on edge. To Blaze it was a time to celebrate the return of Morgan and the likelihood of the team.

The ride to XS was smooth with Richard making random jokes throughout the ride. Blaze and Nicolas discussed his apartment, the team, and tonight’s festivities. "We’re here." Announced Robert who got out of the driver’s side.

Blaze grinned over to Nicolas, "I’m probably going to have to hose your ass down tonight." She giggled as the door to the car was opened.

Cool, brisk air greeted the two as patrons looked on, still waiting to get inside. It wasn’t unnatural for limo’s or other luxury cars to arrive, most celebrities traveled in them. A couple of photographers flashing at the two mutants.

Two large bodyguards flanked Blaze and Nicolas from behind. "Its good to be the owner of this club." The attendant looked up from his booth, unhooking the silver rope, "Welcome, Ms. Fielding and her guest." Blaze grinned again, walking past Leonardo.

The club was immediately packed with frenzied dancing bodies. Glitter falling from the raptors mixing with bubbles. Pulse - pounding dance music blasted throughout the various speakers mounted in the corners of the club. Disco lights spun wildly as black lights flashed open the patrons giving off an illuminance look.

The bar was slammed as ten bartenders skillfully spun bottles and alcohol classes around. All of them highly attractive, a combination of races and sexes. More so eye candy but the flirtatious kind. Blaze wanted it this way so the general public got a taste of what kind of business woman she was. Lava lamps were centered around the ebony round tables that were scattered throughout the club. Marble floors accentuated the place even more with a color scheme of crimson and black, violet and black, and silver and black. This club offered three floors, one floor offered a general introduction with the bar and dance floor. The music here was usually dance music compared to the second floor which was more hip - hop and rap. The third floor offered the VIP lounge where the inground pool lay and pool table. The building was massive.

Several dancers were situated in round pedestals that were also hired for eye candy. The men were of various races wearing just a pair of skimpy shorts and the women wore a clinging bikini top and bottom.

Each an assortment and all divided throughout the various floors. One of the men adoring his body with a large yellow python that slithered across his smooth chest.

The wrap around black bar was centered directly in the middle of the club with a sort of waterfall affect which separated the stairwell from the bar. Its water iridescent as spotlights flew around the club mimicking Hollywood. Large picture frames hung of Madonna, Cher, Usher, P. Diddy, Venis & Serena Williams, Halle Berry, Hugh Jackmon, Vivica A. Fox, Michael Jordan, Barry Bird, pretty much an array of celebrities from music to movies to writers.

The ceilings contained silvery mirrors that if you looked closely you could see the floor above. Judging by the feel of things, it was no wonder the club was so popular. Paparazzi were banned inside the club, and in order to receive access they would pay to get in.

"This is my baby." Blaze whispered into Nicolas’ ear. She saw several women already checking out her friend. "Maybe I should call you hot stuff." She laughed, walking over to the bar.

[Rampage]

"Are they looking at me or you? If I'm Hot Stuff them you must be Short and Sexy."

Nicolas laughed as he accompanied Blaze to the bar, acknowledging the glances that he received. All the attention had reminded him that it had been TOO long since he had enjoyed a woman's...company. As he sat down, he oredered another pair of screwdrivers, giving her one of them as he turned to her, using his power to "speak" directly to her.

I want to say this to you now while you're still sober, unfortunately I haven't been able to drink enough to get inebraited. I LOVE this club. I think that it is well-owned by you and I can see that your staff is ambitious, organized, and well-trained. My proposal is that with my assistance, you open another in either Los Angeles or Miami in the near future, and the city you do not select next would be after that. Your club is obviously popular and I can envision possibly a total of six once you're done, maybe in Chicago, London and Paris as well as the ones here and the two sites I have mentioned. I have done a bit of research and these are five cities that I believe are ready for what you have to offer. Just think it over, and let me know if you're interested. But for right now, i'm going to dance with this pretty caramel beauty with the legs that seem to go forever. She is practically screaming her thoughts to me, and they are right up my alley.

Laughing, Nicolas excuses himself from Blaze, goes up to the young lady and reaches out his hand, leading her to the dance floor. In moments they are moving in time to the music, bodies already beginning to sweat a bit with the heat.

[Foxfire]

Slipping her petite body upon the black bar stool, Blaze grinned at his comment. Leaning closer to his ear, her green eyes falling on the entourage of women. "Well, you know me I'm a raging fireball. I could go by sexy shorty." She pulled away, taking the screwdriver he offered. Gently clanking her glass to his for a toast.

"Why thank you, I'm very anal - retentive when it comes to this place. I like things fast, organized, and smooth." She listened to his proposal, enjoying the burn of the vodka gliding down her throat. Crossing one leg over the other, her eyes staring into his own. "I think that's a fabulous idea. Your offer is accepted, I could definitely see this place expanding. I like LA first followed by Miami, I was even thinking about Detroit too."

Blaze grinned at the Carmel beauty Nicolas spoke of. Her own eyes falling down the other woman with approval. "She's hot." She admitted with a pat on his back, "Go get her, tiger." Sipping her screwdriver she propped her elbows up.

Chatting with her staff, observing their methods. Her staff was flawless, and all of them on top of their game. Turning to see Nicolas spicing up the dance floor, Blaze studied his moves. He wasn't bad, in fact the guy had skill.

'Candy shop' by 50 cent spun wickedly throughout the club. Women bumping and grinding with other men, and even women. Blaze nodded her head to the beat. This was the type of environment Haleigh, Delilah, Morgan, and Alison needed. Each of them needed to let loose. Something Blaze hadn't seen in a while. And something told her Persephone was a big old freak. The thought causing the fiery woman to grin more widely. She'd invite them out here but Blaze knew they'd decline. So, instead herself and Nicolas would enjoy the remaining night life.

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Nodding to Guardian, Persephone took the subtle hint that the woman needed to complete some other buisness. As she escorted the goddess out, Persephone's thoughts turned to her new persona; Ava Cassadine. It was slightly unnerving knowing that for centeries she had been souly known as Persephone. And that now she would be using 'Persephone' as her alias and Ava Cassadine as her identity. It didn't sit well with the goddess even though she seemed as cool as a cucumber. ::

:: Making her way into the elevator once again, she hit the 104th floor and waited as the compartment decended to her level. Stepping off the elevator, Persephone entered her newly decorated penthouse and moved with a purpose, through her livingroom and into her bedroom. The penthouse was decorated with a dark and more '16th centery' feel to it; but still very elegant and up to date with the 'times'. With dark cherrywoods and a colour scheme of blacks, reds, and golds, everything within the apartment was completely different to that of the last tenent. ::

:: Moving through the long stretch of hallway, Persephone entered her bedroom and moved into her closet. She wanted to leave Illustra, to feel the freedom of being in New York City once again. It had been years (well, not counting the last 25) that she had stepped foot in the big apple. After a few minutes, finally Persephone emerged from the large walk in closet wearing a black Ralph Lauren dress (http://image.venusswimwear.com/is/image/Venus/Y6908.19?layer=comp&qlt=80,0&op_sharpen=1&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.5,1.0,0.0,0&iccEmbed=0&rgn=0,0,1600,2240&scl=4.409448818897638&fmt=jpeg&id=2Y9CP9XYxnFUpS3_n2itDv) that fit to her body as if it were made specifically for her. Moving to the brand new dark cherrywood dresser with large mirror, Persephone unclipped her hair allowing the long chocolate curles to fall along her shoulders and mid back. Spritzing some Chanel No. 5 along her neck and wrists, the brunette grabbed the small black clutch that sat on the dresser and headed out of her bedroom and penthouse. ::

---

:: During her research about each member involved in the six, Persephone found that Blaze Fielding owned one of the hottest clubs in New York City. Deciding to check it out, Persephone instructed one of the many drivers on staff at Illustra to take her there. It was only a short time later that she arrived in front of XS. The entire club was packed and people were waiting outside to enter. Obviously if she had status in this timeline she would of entered without trouble; but to the staff she was nothing more than another woman trying to get in. Running the pad of her ring finger along her glossy nude lips, she pressed them together and stepped out of the car once the driver opened the door. Sashaying forward, Persephone moved to the front of the line and smirked to the bouncer. ::

"Ma'am the club is full, you're going to have to wait."

:: Raising a single brow, Persephone lifted her hand up to her mouth and held it out and began to blow softly. The man suddenly had a goofy grin on his face as she poisoned him with the scent of the Orelander flower, allowing her to control him. Stepping aside for Persephone to enter, the man gestured to the door. ::

"I'm sure one more person won't hurt..."

:: Smiling to the large man, Persephone gently patted his toned chest. ::

"You're too kind."

:: Slinking past the bouncer, Persephone made her way into the club; music blaring and pumping throughout the large space. Making her way through the crowds of people that filled the club, the goddess stuck out like a sore thumb; men stopping in mid dance simply to stare at her. Their girlfriends and/or lady friends not too pleased with their sudden lack of attention. Hunter green eyes spotting the bar, the brunette pushed past more people until finally reaching a vacent stool. Looking to the male bartender, she slid into the comfortable stool and crossed her long bare legs before leaning forward. ::

"Bloody Mary."

:: The tender nodded and proceeded to make her drinking quickly. ::

[Rampage]

Nicolas nodded to Blaze as he danced with the new lady. She had already told him that her name was Janet and she was a student and a model and she was hoping he could show her around because she was new here.

"No problem, sweetheart. I hope after breakfast maybe I'll take you sightseeing."

He grinned at her shocked gasp at his forwardness, but they both knew how this was going. She was beautiful, open, and away from Mom and Dad for the first time. He would have to be gentle, but not TOO gentle. Suddenly, he noticed a shift in her emotions and demeanor as Persephone came into the room. He looked and it was no wonder, Seph was a knock out in a classic dress that made her stand out even in this place. He paused to watch her move and be seated at the bar, aware that his prospects were fading a bit as Janet became more agitated.

"Hey, lady, lets take a moment. Have a seat over at THAT table and I will bring you a drink, OK? Don't pout, she's just a friend of mine."

Nicolas walked over to where Persephone sat. he sat beside her, with one seat between him so as not to crowd her, and spoke.

"It's good to see you out and about. You look abslolutely incredible. I am not here to crowd you, I know you like your space. But if you feel like hanging, I'm around. I actually am curious as to whether you can dance as well as you look."

Nicolas gave Persephone a smile as he turned to the bartender.

"Two more screwdrivers, and whatever the lady here wants, that's my tab, got it? Good."

Nicolas looked back at Persephone as he waited for his drinks.

[Alice Cullen]

Haleigh sat once more in her throne like leather chair, at the desk in her home office. A single large black flat panel sat on the right corner of her desk, and it displayed several different camera views... all of the security cameras on the upper floors of Illustra. There was a window for each of the floors, and each window flickered every few seconds, scanning the different cameras on that floor. Haleigh's attention at the moment was turned to an array of papers on her desk. She looked over plans, deals, and proposals for both CI and Liquid Crystal... she signed off on a couple and jotted notes and alterations on the others. Her phone rang, and after finishing her thought, she hit the speakerphone button.

"Davidoff."
>>Hey love.

It was the very familiar and comforting voice of Zach. Haleigh looked up from her papers and set her pen down, a smile spreading on her face.

"Hey."
>>I'm at Blue Grass Airport... wheels up in fifteen. Just thought I'd let you know I'm on my way back. Thanks... for letting me meet her.

Haleigh sat back in her chair, taking a sip of red wine with a bittersweet look on her face.

"How is she?" she asks softly.
>>She's a strong woman. She brought you up... said she misses you. Wishes she could see you.
"Yes... its strange... the Navy even gave her a BODY to bury... but a mother KNOWS these things. She also knows, thankfully... why things must be this way.... though how, I've no idea."
>>Well, may be that will change someday. Oh, by the way... she says Prince Charming is of sound health... and that he's a wonderful buy.... that you would have loved him.
"Well... she knows best."

Haleigh said with a chuckle. They bid their farewells and Haleigh turned her eyes to her computer screen, checking on her teammates. Nicolas and Blaze were out on his balcony, lighting a monument to Sharon and Nicolas' father... Haleigh watched for a few seconds... it was a touching gesture... and Haleigh knew that whatever else motivated Nicolas, avenging his father and Sharon was a driving force within him. Perhaps they were on the same side afterall. Morgan left for the fresh night air, in a manner that provoked a smile from Haleigh, but no concern.

"Spreading your wings, Morg?"

She commented to no one in particular. But that didn't hold her focus for very long... Perse was meeting with Alison on the floor above... and Haleigh touched the screen on the block of Alison's floor. The window expanded full screen, locked on the camera of the room they were in and began playing the sound feed from that camera. Haleigh's heart stopped. The phone rang again but Hale's attention was captured fully by Alison and Persephone's discussion of Stavros Cassadine and his princess Ava... she ignored the ringing completely. She watched them carefully, wondering how far into the Cassadine's history Alison reached.... and wondering what the best move from here would be... erase the past.... or come clean? She hadn't exactly LIED... just never brought any of it up.... Haleigh lifted the phone receiver as she muted the surveillance, watching Perse leave Alison's apartment without sound.

>>Operator.
"Jennifer... I want you to forward me the Cassadine files... and locate the offices with the ORIGINAL legal documents like marriage licenses, divorce decrees... birth certificates... the works."
>>Are you thinking about scrapping evidence? Is Cassadine going down?
"Just... for now... start with that. And get me a RECENT picture of Ava."

[Harbinger]

:: in full custome of a one shoulder designed body countouring black suit w/ high heeled boots and gloves, Guardian was now inside a training gym, a state of the art experience housed within Illustra that combined hard light illusions, siumlated envrionments, and cutting edge robots and other accessories along with obstacle courses, weaponry etc to provide the ultimate in training and exercise.::


:: while some were content to have fun at XS, others, like Alison were intent on further refining and harnessing her powers. She was the second strongest on the Six and of her siblings, Cameron( Prophet) and Erika, she was the oldest and the strongest. A Seer/Precog, telekinetic witch with power over time, Guardian was known for vicious and brutally efficient magickal attacks both directly and through use of the environment. She had NO qualms about killing.::

:: She was the team tactician before becoming a co-leader. a position she relished and would be happy to return to.::

:: for now, she was busy focusing on a manifestation of power that she had rarely used before: LEVITATION. using her telekinetic power she had once jumped from the ground floor of Illustra to the roof top..107 floors. Similar to her television hero, Wonder Woman, Guardian saught to perfect that power. She was known for her creative attacks and defense and now that there was another telekinetic on the team, she felt it necessary to CONTINUE to assert her dominance in that field.::

:: several hours passed Guardian tested her mind and body, her ability to bring throught and act as close together as possible as well as temporal stasis, molecular acceleration and telekinetic attacks. using her TK to agument her physical blows, Guardian's strength could be amplified to an unknown level. ALL of her powers and abilities were being tested in this session and she showed no signs of tiring anytime soon as she vaulted and dodged volleys of lasers, energized tentacles, pile drivers and more.::

:: she knew that eventually she would have to bring herself to interact with Nicolas and Blaze again...but right now she just wasnt ready. She wasnt happy with Blaze and she was only JUST BEGINNING to give Nicolas his fair chance. As time went on, she knew that Haleigh was watching her from the control center of Illustra. She also knew that Haleigh had monitored the conversation between herself and Persephone. Haleigh had MORE than a mild interest in what Alison had "seen" when searching for any possible bloodline to Persephone's alternate in this timeline. It appeared that Alycia's quest for information would become a source of importance to more than just Persephone. Information that would DIRECTLY affect Haleigh in a way that not even Alison could have suspected at first.::

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: The bartender placed Persephone's Bloody Mary on a small napkin and slid it to her with a smile. Nodding her head, she moved the small celery stick around in the red liquid mixing it even better before she took a taste. But before she had a chance to savor her drink, Rampage took a seat close by. Glancing to him casually, Persephone began to draw circles in the air with the toe of her stiletto heals, bored with his attempts to be charming. ::

:: Lifting the tall glass to her lips, she took a small sip of the delicious drink before running her tongue along her full lips to savor every drop. Resting the glass upon the napkin once more, she turned her attention to Rampage once again. ::

"Your technique is outdated...but it will do for now."

:: Slipping off the stool, Persephone grabbed her drink before striding forward. She would accept his drink offer considering she had no cash on her, but she was hardly 'thankful' for his kindness or his charming act. Running her black manicured nail along Rampage's shoulder blade, Perse gave a small smirk. ::

"Thanks for the drink."

:: Sashaying past Rampage, although she did "thank" Nicolas for the drink, she did it in a manor in which he knew she could care less that he bought it for her. Moving past the crowded groups of kiddies dancing, Persephone continued to sip her Bloody Mary until coming upon a small booth filled with a few young men. ::

"Move."

:: Pointing behind her with her thumb, the boys scrambled out of the booth allowing Persephone to take a seat. Sitting back, she recrossed her legs and continued to sip her drink as she watched the club in action. ::

[Rampage]

Nicolas had seen this act before, it was actually amusing to him. Persephone obviously thought she was so incredible that absolutely everyone would fall over her. Even down to the thank you, she had her disdain down pat. Too bad she apparently did not see a friendly gesture for what it was. Nicolas could only laugh at her act, this was as funny as it got.

"You're welcome, Seph. Try not to hurt 'em too badly."

He watched her as she sashayed over to a spot and took it over, then returned to his own table where he proceeded to re-charm a miffed but very beautiful young woman.

"Hey relax, girl. She's a friend of mine and I simply stopped by to say hello and get us some more refreshments. Let's talk about you some more. You're a student of architecture, right? So are you more a fan of traditinal styles or..."

[Oracle]

<< even has half of the team was distracting themselves at XS, they seemed to forget that SOME people were still out, still watching and waiting, and that some had the power to obtain access to XS even WITHOUT invitation.>>

<< Nicolas, Blaze and Persephone were about to be reminded that although they may have been granted a collective reprieve, that not everyone around them were there merely to "have a good time.">>

:fdevil:

[Foxfire]

Perched in her bar stool, Blaze's eyes scanned the club. She noticed many of the regulars there and a few introductions. Business was booming it seemed. Rolling her index finger around her chocolate locks, Blaze caught wind of an intoxicating scent. Enveloping around her like a cocoon, she found herself awfully attracted to the scent. Looking around for the owner, she saw no such person. Luckily, Persephone had snuck in avoiding her detection.

Standing up from her chair, she felt the perfume driving her crazy. Blaze's senses are more keen than anyone present. Slipping away from her drink when a large brawny man appeared in front of her. "Ms. Fielding, we have an unexpected guest." He easily towered over Blaze with his bold lettering of 'Security' across his form - fitting black shirt. An ear - bud attached to his ear, tucked behind wavy brown hair. His gray eyes studying her reaction. Nodding to Persephone, who was sitting by the bar.

"We have a guest." She smirked at the appearance of Persephone in her seductive black dress. "I'll take care of her." Jacob nodded before side - stepping the mutant, returning elsewhere.

But, before Blaze could even attempt a conversation, one of her other security men stepped up to Persephone. His brown eyes burning brightly into her own, blocking Nicolas' path. "Your not on the VIP list." He said matter of factly, "You'll have to leave."

Walking over Blaze stepped up, "Its all right Markus, she's a personal friend, she's more than welcome." His eyes moving to Blaze with a glare. "Anything you'd like to add, Markus?" He shook his head, moving away. Nicolas offering Persephone a drink.

That familiar inviting scent sneaking up on Blaze who closed her eyes. Shaking it off, she studied Persephone closely. "Hmmm, its quite a surprise to see you here. I especially like how you snuck in, not that I mind. Your perfume is...intoxicating I'm guessing it to be Orelander flower, although I could be wrong." Her eyes surveying over the dancing bodies that swam around the bar. Nicolas mentioning a dance with Persephone, causing Blaze to smirk.

"I think your date is getting jealous, Nicolas." She nodded to Janet who glared over at the crowd. One of Blaze's dancers walking over to her with the yellow python slithering across his smooth body.

Dancer: "Blaze, can you hold her? I need to use the men's room."

Blaze reached for the snake willingly as it coiled around her warm body. Its forked tongue "tasting" the air, eyeing Persephone. Tamia's 'Stranger in my house' spun on the DJ's station. Tightening its grip on Blaze, the snake seemed enchanted by the mutant's abnormal body heat.

Returning to her drink, Blaze stood close to the bar. She found it nearly impossible to ignore Persephone's perfume.

[Malice]

:: Diana appeared from the shadows behind XS' back end smirking as she IMMEDIATELY detected Rampage, who stood out like a beacon and Blaze, whose thoughts were comparable to that of an animal at times.::

This should be FUN!

:: she smirked , kicking a body as she stepped over a now body guard, whose eyes were wide open with fear, blood dripping from them.::

:: she was now at the front, strutting up the red carpet to the velvet rope and when the bouncer attempted to check her, she looked upon him...THROUGH him as though he had just made his last move. a white halo formed around his head::

LET ME PASS

:: possesed by Malice, the man had no choice but to comply. she walked past, flicking at him dismissively as she released her hold and he now had a splitting headache.::

:: now inside, the white queen was dressed, flaunting a body that would put most 20 somethings in the room to shame. her exact age could not be guessed by her physical appeareance either.::

::wearing a Calvin Klein designed white, lingerie strapped, corsetted front lace up top, which revealed titilating cleavage and hugged her tight, feminine figure along with an attached white mini skirt w/an asymetrical mini sheer overlay, Diana's long, smooth, bare legs were supported by white Gucci stiletto heels with white diamond ankle straps. To accentuate her sparkling sapphire blue eyes, she wore an exquisite blue/white diamond chocker that wrapped around her neck and dipped down to her cleavage to form the shape of a star. her blonde hair was sleek and straight in a wrap with a front swoop.::

:: EVERYTHING about her suggested WEALTH and POWER. as she walked through the crowd with a knowing grin and glint of evil on her face..she heard the thoughts and saw the stares both out of curiosity and intimidation by her presence. at 5'11' she was among the taller women in the place, and she looked for all the area like a bird of prey. she knew what she was here for...and no one, not even Rampage would be able to figure it out before it was too late.::

:: she WANTED to be seen by them and OTHERS and it was working. Nicolas couldnt hope to penetrate her psi screen. she was far stronger than he was as a telepath.::

So many targets, so much opportunity to flush them out like the filth that they are. Let them try anything. Ill turn this WHOLE Place on its ear.

:: she made her way through more mini crowds, ignoring looks and whistles and as she reached the VIP area...she possesed the bouncer and FORCED him to let her pass. she seated herself on a floor above at a private table, ordering herself a Hemlock, a deadly drink not for the faint of heart.

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Glancing up at the large bouncer who towered over her as she sat calmy at the bar, Persephone parted her lips not ammused at the fact he was assisting that she had to leave. Raising one of her finely shaped brows, before she could speak, Foxfire stopped him and explained she was a personal friend. News to her...but nevertheless it got the stuffy man to leave. ::

"Buh-bye Markus."

:: Waving her fingers as the man glared at her and lift, Persephone soon shifted her equally radiant green eyes to meet Blaze's. The darkness of her lashes and eyeliner made her orbs pop as the club lights danced along her face. Listening to Blaze speak about her 'purfume', it made Persephone's lip tug into a small smile seeing her powers effecting the club owner. She must of had a hightened senses in order for her to still smell the small dosage of Orelander she produced for the bouncer. ::

:: Staying quiet as Blaze addressed Nicolas, she turned to the man and watched as he made his way over to what looked like a teenaged girl. Explained a lot considering his "charming act" earlier; he could only get woman who couldn't find their way out of a paper bag. How delightful. ::

:: Glancing back to Foxfire, a man with a yellow python appeared next to her, unloading the beautiful snake onto Blaze. Watching as the snake coiled around her arm, Persephone's eyes locked with the reptiles. ::

"Beautiful creature isn't it...."

:: Tilting her head back as she peered at the snake through full lashes, it began to move toward Persephone through the air; it's head swaying slightly from side to side. It's tounge 'tasting' her. ::

"One of God's most notorious killers."

:: Moving her index finger under the snakes head, she gently drug her black manicured nail forward. ::

"What they can't see they taste. What they can't hear they sense......Stunning."

:: Lifting her eyes to Blaze, Persephone gently continued to stroke the creature, keeping her eyes locked with the fire elemental for only a moment. Looking behind Blaze's shoulder, she noticed a woman in white whom seemed overly cocky and starved attention. ::

"I don't believe i'm the only unwanted guest here tonight..."

:: Nodding her chin to Malice. ::

[Rampage]

Nicolas detected her as she walked into the room. The power was unmistakeable, the taint upon the air around her palpable. Using his powers to distract Janet for a moment, he saw Malice as she made her grand entrance. That she was beautiful was of no doubt. But the evil inside her made her repulsive to him. He quickly reached out to Blaze with his mind.

Blaze, look alive!! Malice is HERE. Among us right NOW.

Nicolas stood up, making sure that he was visible to her as she strode through the room. He "spoke" to her harshly.

Are you lost? Do you need to be escorted out? I don't think I see your invitaion.

[Malice]

:: crossing her legs at the knee, Malice coldly dismissed the attendant who brought her the Hemlock she ordered. the drink itself seemed to radiate of evil as she stirred it a bit. she chose her seat for a reason, as she locked eyes with Persephone and Blaze. Looking upon them casually but making SURE that she was seen. there was a bit of a buzz about "the woman in white" as she had gain access ahead of a line outside the club AND slipped past security in the vip lounge, yet no one knew who she was.::


that's right, I'm here and there's NOTHING you can do about it.

:: she could practically HEAR Nicolas' libido even though she was a floor up::

and listen to him, panting like a dog in heat. so overcome by pursuit of pleasures of the flesh is he...that he doesnt realize how much of a sitting DUCK he is.

:: Malice continued to sit, and enjoy her view point of the club, watching what was happening, and waiting......for her moment. Nicolas couldnt read HER thoughts, but since he was FOOLISH enough to open a telepathic channel, she took a moment to underscore her point by nailing him with a PRESSURE headache before closing the channel completely, sealing off her mind.::

[Foxfire]

"As beautiful as they are, snakes are one of the most misjudged animals on the planet. So many people think they are evil, when there not. Most assume they are an omen of death or a warning against money." She watched Persephone's black fingernail stroke the scales along the python. She sensed a bond between Persephone and the reptile.

"Would you like to hold her?"

She asked, already knowing the answer to that. Blaze carefully uncoiled the snake handing it to the Goddess. Persephone's observant green eyes noticing the appearance of another surprise guest. Spinning around at Nicolas' thoughts in her head, Blaze's eyes narrowed in contempt.

"Malice..."

She mumbled under her breath, reaching for the ear bud, dispatching her security guards. "Markus? Escort this woman out, she is not wanted here." No reply came only static. Gritting her teeth, Blaze stepped through the busy crowd following Malice towards the VIP lounge.

"Diana, so lovely of you to grace us with your presence. Now, what are you doing here?" Blaze remarked coldly, she detested this woman more than anything. Her eyes burning into the White Queen with hatred, that even Malice could feel. Closing the door behind her, she watched from across the room.

[Malice]

:: Malice looked up from her seat , licking her lips as she enjoyed the taste of her hemlock and noticing Blaze daring to approach her.::

this child loves to flaunt her DEATH WISH, doesnt she?

:: as the mutant demanded to know why she was there, Diana's smirked turned to a look of menacing evil as her sapphire blue eyes glowed only to Blaze::

there are those in life who are destined to predators, and others who are meant to be the prey. YOU , child, are the PREY.

:: it seemed that the area around them had gone black, with no sound, no one else around but it was merely a psychological scare tactic on Malice's part.::

you are out in the open, and i see you are with NICOLAS no less, the meddling mutant who rescued Doctor Victoria from me. You're either incredibly brave or unnaturally stupid, and knowing you as well as i do, i'll go with the latter.

my my, such wicked, inventive thoughts. its hard to believe that you EVER could consider yourself a force for good. Its plain that Alison finds you rather incompetent.


:: Malice's sapphire blue eyes stopped glowing and the sound, the lights, everything returned to normal. she continued to sit, unmoved, and unphased by Blaze's glare or feelings of contempt.::

now leave me, before i split your head open like an over cooked potato in a microwave. I'm here and there's NOTHING YOU or your little toy guards can do about it.

:: Malice dismissed Blaze and no longer acknowledged her presence.::

[Foxfire]

Blaze had to smirk at Malice's catty comments about her. Shaking her head she strolled toward the White Queen. "Save the dramatics for Jerry Springer, Diana. You thrive on provoking others and taunting with them like a cat. Your words are worthless to me."

Her eyes looking upward with the lounge lights disappearing to reveal pitch black. Rolling her green eyes, Blaze's hand illuminated a flickering fire tint, supplying the room with light, enough to watch Malice.

"Your not here for the ambiance nor for the dancing. Your here to provoke me and the others."

Closing her hand the flame vanished with the lighting flickering on. Moving closer, Blaze sat down next to Malice.

"That sounds painful but I might enjoy that. You know how much of a masochist I am." Moving closer, Blaze ran her hand along Malice's flawless leg. "Such smooth legs....I wonder how many plastic surgeries you had to get them." A smug look on her lips, "What else do we have here." Her hand moving upward towards Malice's thigh, turning the psychological game on her. Retracing her hand, Blaze crossed her arms.

"I want you out of my club. Your not welcome here."

[Malice]

:: a DIAMOND hand grabbed Blaze's hand...and immediately began to apply bone breaking pressure as it moved Blaze's hand away and continued gripping it.::


You're very touchy feely. you are also very much a FOOL if you think that you can play this game as well as I can, little one. It was for this body that your father threw away his family, his life like the fool that he was.

I manipulated your father like a puppet and destroyed your sister's family. YOU have always been an afterthought...only good for what you can be USED for.

:: she tightened the grip even further::

I can crush you like an insect, in MORE than one way and if you want provocation, I can give it to you like NO ONE ELSE CAN. Nicolas cannot protect you, NO one can protect you from me, Blaze. This isn't about Mystech anymore..this is about ME claiming my PREY.

:: she nearly broke Blaze's hand AND wrist as she flung her to the floor::

[Foxfire]

A strong grab of her hand caught Blaze's attention. Staring into the White Queen's eyes, Blaze smiled behind the pain. She knew in her diamond form nothing was capable of penetrating her hand. Perking a curious brow, Blaze remained quiet. Her circulation in her hand halting at the lack of blood. Her bones squeezing together but despite the pain, Blaze SMILED over to Malice.

"Your awfully aggressive, been awhile since you had someone touch you?"

She ignored the rest of Malice's comments, all of them distributed to the recycling bin. Her wrist turning a dark purple / blue shade the longer Malice squeezed her hand.

"If you wanted to hold hands, all you had to do was ask."

And with that, the White Queen shoved Blaze toward the floor. Pushing her good palm down to the floor, Blaze's legs whipped up to strike the White Queen in the jaw as she cartwheeled from the couch to the middle of the room. Massaging her wrist and hand she looked through the tinted windows of the VIP lounge.

"You could very easily kill me but you don't. You enjoy taunting your prey. Wolves are one of the most vicious predators but even they pretend to be prey. Falling in line with the sheep just to attack."

[Malice]

:: Blaze's blow to Malice would hurt HER more than it did Malice. after all, striking diamond hard surfaces was a rather foolish thing to do, especially when using only flesh and bone without super strength.::

:: Malice laughed softly::

do you want to fight dear?

:: she continued to sit, as she casually took another drink::

that's good, because I enjoyed breaking you the LAST time. Now that I know you've alligned yourself with Nicolas, that must mean "The Six" have added him to their ranks to make up for Cameron King's disappearence.

:: taking a moment to admire her own perfectly manicured nails, Malice continued to regard Blaze an annoyance.::

You're being rude ,child. neglecting your guests and focusing on me. But that is what a subordinate ALWAYS does in the presence of her superior...she comes close to pay her respect. This is your LAST warning. Leave me, or suffer the consequences. I'm here and there's NOTHING you can do about it.

::and with that, a white halo forms around Blaze's head as Malice POSSESED her long enough to FORCE her out of the VIP lounge, leaving her now standing elsewhere and with a splitting headache. ::

:: Malice had plans this evening to make one HELL of a night and Blaze was not going to stop her. NO ONE was.::

[Rampage]

Nicolas calmly advanced to the VIP room, using his TK to monitor events. As Malice threw Blade to the floor and made her exit. He entered quickly , grabbing both of her diamondhard hands to hold her fast, careful to bind her from physical retailiation. She was so far indestructible in this form, but he EASILY had the strength to contain her . He looked her in the eyes as he made his second greeting.

"Sweetheart, I TOLD you. NOT interested. Are you going to be one of those...stalker women? That is so NOT you. I thought you would have more self-respect. Now last chance. Leave, or I make you go."

Nicolas cut the power to this part of the room again, to show her that anyone can do a parlor trick and to disguise this particular meeting.

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: It seemed Blaze had a respect for reptiles as well, noting Persephone's connection to the beautiful creatures. It was far beyond a connection however, the goddess could actually communicate with the animals and sense their 'feelings' and anxiety about situations. Calm them and control them if need be. It was among her numerous talents that the six had yet to find out. ::

:: Taking the snake gently along her neck, it rested on her shoulders and coiled around one of her arms. Looking to Foxfire who refered to the woman in white as Malice, Persephone glanced past the fire manipulator once more to get a better look. So that was Malice. She had read about her in Haleigh's files that she read...with the assistance of one of the file room guards partaking in the manipulation of her Orelander mist. Malice was strong, ruthless, and confident. She had no irrational fears in which would hinder any weakness. She completed all goals she set for herself. She was an extremely proactive woman. A woman Persephone would have recruited to join the MOE. Watching Blaze move over to Malice and conversate with her, the chit chat soon turned into an outright 'who's the bigger bitch' match. Glancing to Rampage as he made his way over after Blaze was taken to the ground, he grabbed both Malice's wrists and kept her put...something Persephone knew wouldn't work. But in order to learn there must be trial and error. ::

:: Lifting the large snake off her neck, she placed it on the bar top. ::

"Stay."

:: The yellow python coiled into a perfectly shaped circle, staying put as ordered. Moving forward, Persephone's six inch heals slammed into the marble flooring as she made her way over to Malice, Rampage, and Foxfire. Grabbing Foxfire's forearm, she helped the woman to her feet and looked to Rampage. ::

"Let her go, Rampage."

:: Seeing a slightly taken back look appear on his face, mixed with probably annoyance or anger, Persephone kept her eyes firmly locked to his. ::

"I said, let her go. Confronting her in a crowded club owned by a publically known woman isn't the wisest choice. Unless of course you prefer to end the evening in a blood bath that will be broadcasted all over the news?"

:: Not bothering to look at Malice, she had no need to address her. She had yet to become too hostile in a way that would spring Persephone into action, therefore she kept her eyes focused on Rampage and her hand firmly gripped on Blaze's forearm. ::

[Foxfire]

Blaze's boot easily connected with Malice's jaw but the White Queen was protected. A slam of impact connected to Blaze's timberland boot with a grimace. It felt like she assaulted concrete or even ice! Her foot already bruising but she held back from crying out.

Diana's words beginning to provoke the mutant now. Her foot throbbing in pain but she kept constant eye contact of Malice.

"Your not welcome here!" She repeated with more haste this time. The mutant's temper beginning to rise. Throwing out Malice wouldn't be so easy.

Looking up at the white halo, Blaze was about to side - step but her eyes drained of the green irises to reveal a pale gray. Her arms falling at her waist in a drone like state. Malice's instructions were clear and Blaze unfortunately was the victim to it. Walking out the door she closed the door behind her, leaving Malice.

The effects wore off with Blaze frowning. "That little bitch!" She clenched her teeth, grinding them in aggravation. A fast moving headache greeting the mutant in seconds. Touching her temples, Blaze felt an arm tighten around her.

Looking at the owner, she was surprised to see Persephone. She needed to get a hold of Alison, who was a far better match for the White Queen.

Persephone addressing Nicolas to stand down, Blaze's eyes turning to the Goddess. She obviously didn't know how ruthless Malice could be. Persephone's hold tightening on her arm, but Blaze remained quiet.

What was Persephone's plan here?

[Alice Cullen]

Haleigh straigtened up the papers on her desk and pushed them aside as she waited for the files she'd asked for. She watched Blaze and Nicolas leave for XS and called the security control room a few floors below to verify that Blaze's security detail was dispatching with her. As soon as she hung up the phone, Jennifer was back on the line.

>>Director... I sent you the picture of Ava... but we have a problem with the Cassadine files... it seems... they were secured earlier by Alycia Barnett.... she requested them from our European office a few hours ago... and of course, because of her standing with us... she was granted them.
"AND I wasnt TOLD about this WHY??" Haleigh asked, both perplexed and alarmed.
>>Haleigh... you asked NOT to be told about them. You said other than rudimentary protocols... you wanted nothing to do with them.
".... I know. DAMN it." Haleigh said, sighing. She opened the message on her pc screen containing the picture of Ava... a woman she hadn't seen in many years... a woman who looked an awful lot like the goddess they just brought home from Limbo. Haleigh rubbed her eyes gently, pinching the bridge of her nose softly, trying to ease away a stress headache. "Patch me through to the European CI Director, please."
>>Please hold.

After a few seconds, a different woman's voice came on the line. Haleigh could always trust her good friend to be dependably available and usually at work late as well.

>>Alluisi.
"Cass.... hey, it's me."
>>Well, this is a treat, two calls in one week. I take it this is about the Cassadine files? I signed the release myself... you said Barnett was to be allowed every courtesy you were... has something changed?
"No, no... you did it right... I just... never expected Alycia to hit so close to home."
>>Well, I'll tell you... she tapped us out... and we weren't the only ones. she pulled a lot of strings, and got nearly EVERY source available on Stavros. She's like a one-woman CIA squad from hell. It looks like she's going after him.
"Yeah.. she's fucking J. Edgar Hoover in heels. Shes.... worse than I am, when she's got a personal stake. I'm pretty sure she's going to blow Stav out of the water."
>>Well... that's good news, right? I mean, CI can finally step up and CONTROL arms dealing in the states and abroad... our major competitor will be out of the way.

Haleigh paused... what Cassandra said was true... but unfortunately, Haleigh had other things on her mind.

"Cass... I need you to put me in touch with Ava... set up a meeting for tonight, as soon as possible... I'm coming over there... I'll be there in twenty."
>>But I thought... are you sure? What's happening?
"I know... and I wouldnt... but this is important."
>>What should I tell her?
"That I need to speak with her in person... she'll know its important... I swore I'd never speak to her again.... but this... transends what is between us."
>>Alright... I'll see you in a few.... let me get her on the phone. Bye.

Haleigh hung up and quickly rose from her desk, leaving everything where it was, but locking her computer from prying eyes. She grabbed her coat and slipped it on before activating her molecular dispersement. This would probably blow up in her face... but it was her responsibility....

[Malice]

:: No sooner than Blaze was made to leave, THEN came Nicolas who immediately grabbed her hands. who did he think he was, Ike Turner?::

:: Malice made no attempt to struggle, instead she just laughed softly as he blustered on and on about her "wanting him". clearly he was a legend in his own little mind. she looked upon him with a predatory smirk.::

:: in a sultry voice with an icy lilt::

I had fun with you last time. KNOWING that we would meet again because you NEVER could forget about me.

:: she continued to sit, as Nicolas held her hands. he obviously forgot that she had legs, and a head..with which she could easily transform into her diamond form and perform a deadly kick combo or a head butt.::

If you and Blaze had an ounce of intelligence between you, you would have realized that coming to see me was exactly the LAST thing you should do.

:: at that moment Persephone arrived and wisely advised Nicolas to let her go and back off::

She's right, boy scout. You better listen to your pretty little friend before I turn this place inside out. What do you think the patrons of this place would do if they knew that MUTANTS were among them?

:: the word MUTANT suddenly became planted in the minds of those with weaker, more fragile psyches in the room....soon a growing buzz could be heard...


Mutants here? with US? who? which one? should we call the police?

i'm not going to stay here with filthy muties


::the discomfort and agitation among the crowd began to grow.::

if you try to interfere with my psychic suggestion, youll only DAMAGE their minds...and if you want the blood of innocents on your hands...be my guest. the only way this is going to end is if you take your wretched hands off me. NOW!

:: Malice continued to lock eyes with Nicolas, she wasnt bluffing and she was prepared to escalate things. people were starting to become more hostile as they began to suspect one another of being "The mutants"::

ive taken you at your measure....and found you wanting.

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah stepped out of her suite on the 100th floor and made her way to the elevator. Pressing the button for the 80th floor, she rode it down to the training room. Punching in her entrance code, she entered the room where Alison was busy training.

As a giant robotic tentacle came flying towards her, she reached out and blew it up with a photon blast. Turning to Alison, she spoke. ]

"What's this I hear about Morgan flying around the city?"

[Rampage]

Nicolas dropped her hands in disgust. Seph was right. She definitely wasn't worth it here. He laughed at Malice's taunt.

"You have yet to take my measure. You are hiding behind these people just as you hid behind my feelings for my family and my concern for Dr. Victoria. And you STILL lost. Enjoy your night, crone. When you have the courage...I will be waiting."

Nicolas turned and walked back behind the group.

[Malice]

:: Malice smirked as Nicolas tried to recover with the whole "i'm better than you" routine.::

and yet, you STILL required the services of your weather witch to restore your own emotional stability, just as Blaze comes to you in the hopes of reversing the effects of my psychic attacks on HER.

you are my playthings, and you will REMAIN so until i grow tired, and THAT will not happen, until you are DEAD.

:: as Nicolas and Blaze left, they had no idea just how dangerous a game they were playing. Malice had first appeared before them as an agent of Mystech, granted she was the most powerfull they had seen so far, but inspite of the disaster that befell the city, she survived and gave Nicolas one of his most dangerous fights yet. NOW she was functioning independantly, with no clear indication of what her plans or goal were.::


:: just to underscore the fact that THEY were her prey and that the longer they remained in the open, the more danger they were in....Malice began to use her empathic powers in conjuction with her telepathic powers and was now manipulating and AUGMENTING the negative feelings and emotions of everyone in XS. the feedback would bring Nicolas a constant stream of pain as it would Blaze.::

:: things were about to go from bad to worse::

[Oracle]

<< people began to get into arguments and spats about stepping on one another's shoes, or accidently spilling drinks. attitudes became increasingly testy and the growing agression seemed to sweep around the club, escalating into VIOLENCE as brawls began to break out.>>

<< screaming, shouting, chairs flying, bear bottles and other objects being smashed..suddenly people were attacking one another, a riot was happening before the eyes of Nicolas, Blaze and Rampage and in the rushing crazed violence, flashes of Malice standing in the middle of the crowd on the main floor could be seen. She was unmoved, unaffected. was she even THERE?>>


<< the fire alarm began to go off as someone had set fire in one of the restrooms and it quickly began to spread. the doors to the club slammed shut. and people, INCLUDING Blaze, Nicolas and Persephone were now trapped. It was impossible for Nicolas to get a fix on Malice or where she was...but blood was now being spilled, people wre being injured, trampled and attacked....the club was being torn apart. Malice's soft, evil laughter could be heard in the air all around them. Her "telempathic" attack had taken a DEADLY toll on the club and its patrons and if Nicolas, Blaze and Persephone attempted to use their powers..they would be REVEALED for who they were. Malice would make SURE of it.>>


<< Persephone was the only one with an advantage. Malice was not yet aware that she was a member of The Six or that she actually had powers>>

[Harbinger]

::Meanwhile, back at Illustra, as Morningstar made her own entrance into the training gym, Alison decided to take a break. it had been about 2 hours and as she commanded the program to end, a chime was heard as the simulations and other mechanisms stopped, faded and/or returned to "stand by" mode.::

:: Guardian now held a bottle of chilled aquafina as she looked at Delilah::

Hello, Delilah.

:: she listened as Delilah asked about Morgan. Apparently Morgan's little outing didnt go unnoticed by ANYONE on the highest floors of Illustra.::

Ah yes, Morgan's little outing this evening caused a stir on more than one floor.

She felt the desire, the NEED to access more of herself and that meant using her powers. She decided to test what her mother and Ororo had told her...to see if she could fly like the wind. She flew at a high altitude, beyond the vision of a normal human eye and though she traveled far, both myself and Haleigh had a clear "fix" on her, both through technological means and magick.

She needed that taste of freedom...and more importantly, she's becoming more aware of her powers and that she CAN use them. she teleported via stepping disc back to her room just in time to appear before her mother.

She was in no danger.

:: Alison said with a cool, calm tone as she continued::

meanwhile, i'm glad your here. Something is about to happen. Alycia is on the verge of cracking open another powerfull ally to mystech and destroying the family behind the "entity". this company was directly responsible for the weapons design and shipment for the armory of MASTER MOLD. Alycia is intent on making SOMEONE pay for Sharon's death and it appears that she has been most efficient in finding the root of Master Mold's creation. ONE of the members of that family behind the company Alycia is going after is in the bloodline of a crosstime counterpart of PERSEPHONE!

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Watching as Rampage let Malice's wrists go, Persephone did the same for Foxfire. Glancing over her shoulder to watch Foxfire and Rampage leave, the goddess turned to Malice noting her growing smirk. Alas her attempts to prevent a fight had failed as Malice began to use the club as her 'playthings'; as she so sweetly put it. It was a failed attempt on her part to try and 'keep the peace', considering this woman nearly destoryed New York City and the entire Eastern coast of the United States, and there were only three of the six to fight her. It was in Malice's to cause havoc, just as it was in Persephone's nature. Something the goddess had to learn to control in this timeline, unfortunatly. ::

:: The club continued to go into an uproar; fires igniting everywhere, people fighting and screaming, the club doors closed to isolate the situation. This woman was smart....but obviously Persephone was the wildcard in the situation. Standing calmly as to not draw attention to herself, winds began to pick up throughout the club, increasingly getting colder as the seconds past. Soon, the entire club was in a whirlwind of frosty air, the degree's dropping so suddenly and so drastically that everyone in mid movement instantly froze. The once booming Club XS now looked like a winter wonderland. Everything white, crystalized, and bitter cold. The fires had stopped, all noise was now silenced, but more importantly, NO ONE knew Persephone was the wielder of these powers. ::

"You're not one to underestimate, Malice."

:: Unsure if Malice was still in her diamond form, or managed to weasle her way out of Persephone's powers, the earth goddess slowly began to walk around the frozen statues of club patrons; her healed boots softly crunching the snow and ice on the ground. ::

"You think outside the box. I admire that in a person. In a foe."

:: Spotting a froze Blaze and Nicolas afar, Persephone lifted her hand in their direction and ice incasing their bodies instantly turned to water, dumping into a pool at their feet. ::

"I believe we should leave before this escalates into something beyond our control."

:: Glancing to Nicolas and Blaze, Persephone still crept along the frozen people, keeping her senses keen to Malice so as not to be surprised. ::

[Foxfire]

OOC: Rushing to post, sorry, still at work.


Watching the standoff between Nicolas and Malice, Blaze could sense the malice in Diana yearned to unveil itself. Gritting her teeth, Blaze kept close by Persephone, who still managed to keep her hold. In a matter of seconds the scene escalated from bad to worse with Malice turning the situation into Pandemonium.

Cries of havoc erupted with patrons lashing out at one another. Fires erupting with Blaze seething with rage. She easily could extinguish the fires but with Malice’s manipulation it was impossible. The club taking considerable damage with blood splattering the floors from the scuffles. She felt like a helpless victim to Malice, who was smiling with gleam.
The more Malice manipulated the worse Blaze felt. Her hand running up to her temple with the dull ache of a migraine forming. Persephone released her hold and surprisingly Blaze did not attempt to engage Diana. This time she ran off for the fire extinguisher in the back. A white stream of frost collided with the raging fires, slowing them down some.
The doors outside slammed shut with a cool gust of frigid air arriving inside. Shivering at the briskness of it, Blaze struggled to put out the fires. Reaching for her cell phone she called Alison at Illustra, not realizing she was training in a Danger Room. Leaving a message on Alison’s voicemail, screams and bottles breaking. Yelling into the phone so Alison would be able to hear this whenever she played it.

"Alison, Diana is at the club. I asked her to leave and she’s refusing. She’s turning this club upside down, using people’s own fear for mutants." The term ‘mutties’ could be heard in the background. "Myself, Nicolas, and Persephone are here but we need assistance." One of the victims shoving Blaze to the ground, knocking her phone out of her hands. The phone falling with a smack. People trampling on one another, roars of rage and infighting occurring. Looking around for her phone, Blaze heard a crunch. Spotting her phone in pieces a couple of people stepping on the device.

"Damn!"

Getting back up, she felt her body dropping to a sub - degree temperature. Sparkles of frost covering Blaze like inches of snow. Her body reacting to the extreme cold freezing her in place. All was silent throughout XS until Persephone managed to un-freeze the mutant.

Looking up with a bewildered expression, Blaze noticed the fires were put out but who?

Nibbling on her bottom lip, Blaze wasn’t entirely sure if she could just walk away. "I’m not leaving my club with her here. I’ve invested too much time and energy just to bow out like that."

[Pam Ravenscroft]

"Yes, because engaging her the first time did wonders to your club."

:: Persephone snapped as she kept her attention focused away from Blaze and Nicolas and to the surronding area, not give Malice the option to take her by surprise. Stopping in mid step, Persephone huffed out a lung full of air; her breath easily being seen in the sub zero temperatures that filled XS. ::

"Fighting with Malice isn't going to prove anything, Foxfire. You're just falling into the traps she's set for you."

:: Not yelling, nor speaking in harsh tone. Persephone's words were harsh but said to help Blaze. The woman acted on her emotions; something that not many did. It was admirable and showed strength. But the fact remained emotions were Malice's trump card and the white queen wasn't afraid to use it. ::

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah laughed at Morgan's little adventure. ]

"It's like she's a teenager again...rebelling."

[ She grew more serious as Alison told her of Alycia's work and Persephone's link to it. ]

"Wow...I can't believe it. So there is another "Persephone" here in this timeline? And she has links to MysTech? Can we still trust Persephone then? And what can I do to help Alycia? I'm worried about a backlash against us if this family is taken down..."

[Foxfire]

Persephone had a point, even if Blaze didn’t fully agree. Malice thrived on provoking people and Blaze would be easier than most due to her personality. Surveying the damage, Blaze couldn’t trust leaving her club especially with Diana here. But, at the same time she couldn’t risk a blood bath between the patrons of her club, the three members of the Six, and Malice.

"You have a point, Persephone. One that I failed to see."

Keeping a careful eye on Malice, Blaze stepped back along side of Persephone. She wondered if Alison received her message, only time would tell. For now, Blaze would stand down to prevent any more chaos from ensuing. She couldn’t risk the public finding out about her powers or the team.

[Rampage]

Nicolas was a ta momentary loss at to what to do. He had been outflanked again by Malice, and although he managed before, this time seemed pretty dim for the good guys.

Suddenly the temperature dropped, covering him in a layer of frost. He played posum, standing pat to see the outcome of this gambit. Since it was FROST, he figured it had to be Seph's doing.

As Persephone walked around looking for Malice after uncovering himself and Blaze, Nicolas began to scan for her telepathically, telekinetically, and by scanning for astral form. If she were here, he would find her.

[Harbinger]

:: As Alison was about to answer Delilah about Alycia and how best to assist her, an alert tone sounded off as Alison received a communication from Blaze.::

:: she paused and looked over @ Delilah::

trouble. Malice crashed XS and as i "look", i see that Blaze AND Nicolas foolishly tried to engage her. now the Club has been turned into a nightmare by the white queen.

we better get there before it's too late.

:: holding up her hand, Guardian teleblinks herself and MorningStar from Illustra several blocks over to XS, noting the frozen silence, Alison knew that Perspehone had taken the first major step to control the situation. but even in the silence, she could see the damage to the building itself and the many wounded.::

over to XS

::shaking her head, she found her way to Persephone, Blaze and Nicolas and glared at Blaze, still pissed at her from earlier.::

So, whose brilliant was it to try to engage Malice...KNOWING the power she posseses and her willingness to use it?

Didn't i tell you that it was UNWISE to go out into the open repeatedly like this?

:: she looked around, hearing the faint winter breeze and noticing people frozen in sparkling ice columns::

The two of you are on her personal hit list. Even if she had NEVER been the white queen of Mystech's inner circle, the two of you would STILL have fallen under her glare of hatred.

She's coming back for you....for US. But it won't happen here. She's gone from here for now.

the main thing to do now is damage control.

Delilah can scramble the cameras outside with her light powers and remove an footage and also use CALM the emotions of the people here when Persephone releases them on my mark. i'll repair physical damage to the building...

:: she hesitated as she looked at Nicolas::

and you, you can use your mental powers to GENTLY remove the memory of this violence.

[Foxfire]

"I was the one who engaged her first. I asked she leave calmly, I attempted to be civil but it was not wise." She could hear the disappointment in Alison's voice and the disapproval. The faint headache she suffered earlier had vanished.

"Thank you for coming. Where is Haleigh?" She asked, noticing Black Widow not present. Blaze was trying to be amicable with Alison, despite their differences. An attempt on her part for a truce. Although, it would be a long road to recover the damage stricken to their friendship.

"I'll close the club down while the team prepares the appropriate conditions."

[Rampage]

Nicolas nodded as he began to concentrate. With Malice no longer actively toying with the minds here, Nicolas altered their memories of events so that the incident was replaced instead with a minor fire drill. They would be upset at the city for being a bit inconvenient, but that was all. As for the fire house that was trying to respond to the call, they were also led to believbe that it was a simple drill and that all was well. Any outside bystanders were sent away with only a memory of a loud, really cool party going on at XS.

After he finished, he reported to Alison.

"All anyone will remember is an inconvenient city-ordered fire drill."

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Seeing Alison arrive, she instantly began to servey the situation and plan a course of action. On her mark, with the flick of her wrist, a soft wind began to pick up within the club until the ice instantly burst into water, pooling to the floor. ::

:: Stepping over a small puddle of water toward the group, Nicolas made it seem as though there was a false fire drill, explaining the water and the evacuation of the club. For the most part people were more disappointed than anything, but none were of the wiser when it came to Malice. ::

"I'll evaporate the water once everyone leaves the club."

[MorningStar]

[ As Alison related the evening's events to Delilah, she started to utter an annoyed "fuuuu..." when suddenly she found herself teleblinked to the middle of XS. Chaos. Total chaos. She finished her expletive "...ccckkk" then nodded to Alison as she received her orders. ]

"Everyone shield your eyes."

[ Moving to the center of the club, she held her hands to the sky, fingers spread out, and released a series of bursts of light. The camera sensors were fried, the recording devices overexposed rendering its recording capabilities useless. She walked out of the door and repeated the procedure with the outdoor cameras, then returned inside.

Bringing her hands together in front of her, she closed her eyes and focused. A gentle glow began to emanate from her body, bringing a calming atmosphere to the devasted club. She began to move among the club patrons, using her first-aid training to tend to any wounds she came across and mentally noting which would need medical attention first when help arrived. ]

[Harbinger]

::looking down at Blaze as she asked about Haleigh, the seer replied::

Haleigh is involved in personal business right now. In the meantime, we need to work quickly.

:: Alison waved her hand and nodded as everyone began to follow through with their part in the damage control. she thrusted her hands out ala' Piper Halliwell and circled them around one another in a counter clockwise motion. an odd sound was heard as the temporal field around the club was now being turned backward...physical objects were moving backward through time and returning to their original state prior to the "telempathic" induced riot. it was like watching a warped version of "Fantastia" as Guardian used her power over time to repair the physical structure.::

:: as things settled to the way they were, Nicolas and persephone and morningstar all finished their part. Alison covered her eyes and narrowed them as MorningStar unleashed an aspect of her power.::

Delilah's powers are considerable to say the least. she's disciplined in the use of them. when unleashed, she could be VERY deadly. Persephone has also prooven that she will be a powerfull asset to the team. her calm, almost aloof attitude allows her a certain logic. and her elemental powers will come in handy in the tests and trials to come. Let's hope Nicolas is as good as he CLAIMS he is. He was foolish enough to provoke Malice tonight...and Blaze, she should know better. she owns a high profile social spot in the city, she's well known herself. if she was "outed" it would not only RUIN her standing in the community but it could be traced back to Morgan, Illustra and XS....WHAT WAS SHE THINKING!?

:: finally turning back to Blaze as the people were now being revived. she nodded with approval at Nicolas' altering of the patron's memories and as Delilah helped those who needed it most it turned out that many patron's surface wounds had been taken away by the mini time warp. the guests left in a quiet, if not disappointed fashion but better for them to felt like their fun had been cut SHORT than for them to have discovered they were in the presence of mutants::

NEXT TIME, instead of trying to have a private "battle of the bitches" with a woman would sooner KILL you than talk to you, try being subtle and calling for BACK UP so that we all might try to deal with her in better way that wont result in her laying waste to a club owned by someone who happens to be a MUTANT.

If you would LISTEN for once, you would have realized that Malice has you MARKD FOR DEATH. XS is a PUBLIC PLACE. a high profile one at that and in your attempts to proove how "hot" and how "independant" you are...you caused EXACTLY what Persephone warned.

You're 0 for 2 now Blaze. First you pissed off the Doctor by setting fire to her daughter's apartment..and now this. GET YOUR ACT TOGETHER!

:: her tone was abrupt and cold::

The rest of you ::not including Delilah, who knew better:: kindly make an attempt to NOT display yourselves like PREY in an open sea full of sharks. Malice is coming for us, and that is just ONE of many threats looming on the horizon.



:: Turning on her stilletto high heel and her blue/black hair whips with her turn. She leaves the club. going outside..she exhals with annoyance before going round to the back of the building.::

that girl is trying my patience. she really is.

::her clenched fist trembling as she looked up to the sky::

Cameron, if only you were here...maybe YOU could take some sense into her. she's as stubborn as a deaf mule!

[Foxfire]

Blaze looked up to see Nicolas concentrating. A small inkling of what he was doing to the patrons. A gush of water spilling across her Timberlands, soaking them with a groan. Picking up her boot to stare at the cool water Persephone spilled. My favorite pair too. She looked over at Delilah’s odd statement with a frown. She probably had been in mid - sentence when Alison transported the trio to the club.

Raising a hand to shield her eyes, Blaze turned away from the blinding light that cascaded around her club. Shutting her eyes after the brightness blinding the mutant. Alison’s icy voice greeting her with a hint of disdain

Alison’s cutting words adding more fuel to the fire. Shaking her head, Blaze walked away from Alison who was still reprimanding her like a child. She was tired of Alison’s constant complains and over cronic nagging.

Retiring to her back office, Blaze sat down at the large mahogany desk. Pulling out a pack of cigarettes Lighting up, she sat back in the leather swivel chair. Her mind obviously a toss - up on Malice and Alison. And what sort of business was Haleigh up to? Usually it was personal when

Black Widow made house calls. A cloud of smoke surrounding her, tapping the fallen ashes into the marble tray centered at her desk. The nicotine calming her for now.

Tonight was a disaster, she would need to throw a bash to compensate for the disappointment. The problem was Malice, how could she protect her club and her patrons? She couldn’t, especially now. Typing away at her lap top she pulled up several surveillance photographs of Diana.

"What’s your weakness?" She thought out loud, inhaling on her drag.

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Guardian's outburst toward Blaze peeked Persephone's interest. They were most definitely at the end of their ropes when it came to each other...which in the end could do more harm to the team than good. But what the goddess quickly picked up on was how in control Alison was. Or more so, how testy she was trying to show her control over the team. There is a difference between team leaders and tirants; in Persephone's opinion, Alison was on the boarderline tirant. ::

:: Rolling her eyes away, she watched as Blaze made her way into the back room and disappear from sight. An end to a rather interesting evening. Inhaling a deep breath, Perse moved over to the bar, where her black cluch was sitting, and grabbed it. ::

"Well if there aren't any more outbursts or unexpected guest in the near future, i'm going to grab a bite to eat."

:: Moving past Alison, Delilah, and Nicolas, Persephone crossed the dance floor now making her way toward the exit. ::

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah's first thought went to "Bitch" - causing the trouble then conveniently extricating herself from the situation. But maybe it was better than hashing it out right then and there. She looked at Nicolas - maybe this was a good time to extend and olive branch. ]

"I could use a quick drink - what do you say?"

[Oracle]

<< Night time was now in full effect. The patrons of XS were no worse for the wear and had been safely evacuated from the club...dispersing to find other places to amuse themselves for the evening. although the members of The Six had managed to correct a potential disaster, there were still problems. Alison was on the verge of banishing Blaze from Illustra and her frustration with the mutant was giving her a headache.>>

<< as the others remained inside the now quiet XS and Alison went outside and around back, strands of her blue/black hair began to blow as the winds were picking up. a summer storm was brewing...much needed to cool the temperature but there was something behind this storm.>>

<< as thunder rumbled in the sky and flashes of lightning could be seen in the billowing clouds, Alison didnt seemed to feel the need to go inside. she would sooner head back to Illustra than go back in there. as she stood in the alley and her clenched fist was shaking.>>


<< the shadows in the dimly lit alley seemed to be exagerated in certain areas and from within those shadows, lurked a pair of sinister eyes that fixed on the Seer.>>

<< Just as Alison finally began to calm down, thinking of her brother...the rain began to fall and after only a few moments, there was a STEADY downpour of cool rain as thunder crashed overhead in the skies above. a summer storm, perfectly acceptable for this time of year...but all was not as it seemed.>>

[Harbinger]

:: Guardian didnt bother to flinch or move quickly to find shelter from the rain. the rain swept over her, drenching her skin and blue/black hair. she closes her eyes for a moment and looks up, almost RELISHING the rain as it washes over her tight feminine figure but the unexpected liberation is halted as a crash of thunder prompts the Seer to open her cobalt blue eyes...and behold the site of a LARGE, hideous, red hued creature that can ONLY be described as a DEMON... a 10 ft tall demon with an enormous physical stature that is RIGHT IN FRONT OF HER!?::


GODDESSS!!!?!

:: Alison's eyes grow wide as she gasps with SHOCK::

what is it!?

:: she screams as she falls back. the creature reaches out for her but she reacts faster as she frantically gestures ala' Prue Halliwell. a rushing, chiming sound is heard as she TK's the massive demonic creature back, sending it flying backward and up, slamming into a metal stairwell::

:: she turns to run. lightning and thunder punctuate the deadly situation as she moves with the speed and grace of a jungle cat through the rain. Knowing that Delilah will hear her, she screams::

DELILAH!!

:: her retreat is halted as ANOTHER demon of the same manner appears infront of her....GRABBING HER by her shoulders and squeezing her as it pulls her close. she glares at the creature in disbelief as she feels the cold, dark, EVIL radiating from it. ::


It's touch....almost MORE THAN I CAN BEAR!!

:: from its opened mandible like jaws...a large , longe tongue comes forth...with a spinning "drill" like edge that is aimed for her forehead::

NO!:

:: a bell tolls as Guardian grits her teeth narrow's her cobalt blue eyes and she SLAMS the creature with the telekinetic force of a battering ram FORCING IT to lose its grip on her as it is sent bowling down the alley like a helpless tumble weed. Shaken by his horrific tough, Guardian thrusts her hands forward ala' Piper Halliwell and BLASTS the creature...blowing it up. the sound is sickening as it screams and the stench that follows from its now exploded body is worse than a charnel pit with pieces of the body falling down from the air::

:: Guardian finds herself now confronted by TWO MORE creatures...hemmed in by the alley and the raging storm around her...she looks among her assailants as they growl at her with a predatory, savage instinct. The seer holds her ground...taking a battle stance as her clenched fists are surrounded by glowing black halos of dark magick::

[Oracle]

<< as the creatures had attempted to AMBUSH the Seer, they didnt count on her being as powerfull as she was. They assumed she was just an ordinary human, stupid girl in an alley who was prey.>>

<< these creatures would be FAMILIAR to Persephone, for she had encountered them in her timeline with Darkchilde...the ORIGINAL Dire Wraiths of legend...the space traveling "sisterhood" of wicked sorceresses who were hideous in appearence but deadly in their magickal prowess and savage in the predatory instincts. how they had come to be in THIS timeline was anyone's guess but at the moment that didnt matter.>>

<< though Guardain had been able to destroy one of them...she was now hemmed in by two more and the THIRD, the one whom she had hurled back with her telekinetic attack was now closing in. it was clear they intended to capture and most likely KILL the witch. powerfull as she was....she would be wise to summon her team mates to aid her but with the terrible summer storm raging on, the one most likely to hear her screams of distress was Delilah.>>

<< round two was about to begin. Standing at 5'11' and in tip top shape, Guardian was far from weak or puny but she was DWARFED by these large , immense demons.>>

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Exiting the front of Illustra, a few club patrons remained out front, waiting patiently for their cabs. Everything was quiet except for the soft rumbling of thunder in the distance. Looking upward, Persephone could feel the thunderstorm brewing. the distinct smell of rain overtaking her senses. There was going to be a massive summer storm hitting any minute. ::

:: Standing patiently waiting for her driver to pull the car around, suddenly Alison's voice caught Persphone's ear. DELILAH!. Whipping her head around to where the horrid scream came from, the patrons near by were shocked as well. While they scattered, afraid of the prospect of having a preditor or gang hurt them as well, Persephone began to run down the sidewalk toward the alley way behind XS. Sprinting at top speeds, she rounded the corner just as the rain began to pour full force down on the city. Lighting flashed above and thuner crashed. ::

:: Rain soaked hair clung to Persephone's equally wet face and body. Her designer dress--offically ruined--stuck to her unforgivingly. Finally reaching the scene, Persephone's hunter eyes went wide as she haulted instantly. ::

"Oh my God..."

:: High winds whipped throughout the alley, sending the falling warm rain water's direction to become erratic. Still as stone, the goddess was shocked at the sight of the original Dire Wraiths...the ones who murdered her friends. The ones who destoryed the coven she helped built. The ones that forced Ororo to cast her to stone to only awaken 25 years later with nothing left. Her shocked expression soon turned into utter hatred as her eyes melted from green to black. ::

:: Suddenly the winds began to pick up behind Persephone sending debris and trash cans flying into the brick walls. Lifting her hands out to her sides, lighting crashed behind the goddess, gaining the attention of the Dire Wraiths. Suddenly the hurricane-like winds blasted forward, hurling the Dire Wraiths back away from Alison with ease. Moving forward, she gestured her arm out, sending one of the massive garbage cans flying to where the Dire Wraiths laid. ::

"YOU MURDERED MY FAMILY!!"

:: Persephone's voice thundered loudly around the immediate area as a massive lightning bolt crashed into the garbage can, making it explode into billions of pieces; sending sharp metal shards of debris flying every which way. ::

[Dire Wraith]

the dire wraiths converged upon this woman who was powerfull than she looked. not only would they assume her substance and form when they "brain drained" her, but they would add her own mystical powers to their own already deadly dark magicks. but their second round with the witch was halted as they were confronted by another woman...a woman whom they thought had DIED ages ago.

Dire Wraith: in a deep, evil raspy voice YOU!? she hissed with contempt[/b] this isnt possible. you should be DEAD with the others! Back in.....


[i]the winds SLAMMED into her and her sister wraiths. Persephone's powers were more refined and precise in this reality and they were swept away from Guardian , down the alley as the storm raged around them. picking themselves up, the wraiths flooded the area with their enchantments to deflect and counter the metal shrapnel that Perspehone sent flying around

Dire Wraith: HOW is this possible? the Darkchilde and her coven....we nearly destroyed them all! Darkchilde was the sole survivor and she destroyed all of the wraiths but our might queen, Volx!

they quickly discussed among themselves. the females of the wraith species were the dominant ones, the intelligent ones, and the ones who weilded magick with deadly precision yet they did not count on Persephone being in THIS timeline.

We must destroy her if we are to succeed with our plans. Capture the witch...KILL Persephone!

the wraiths began to advance, lashing out at Persephone with magickal attacks that blasted at her body and set her skin on fire with an acidic sting. two of the wraiths went after Alison all the while the storm rages in the night sky around them all.

[Rampage]

Nicolas smiled at Delilah's offer of a drink. Combined with Alison's restraint, he was thinking that maybe they would get along well after all.

"I would be delighted. Now what'll you ha- Eh???!!!"

Nicolas mind picked up the panic outside and the anger of Persephone. He reached out with his TK and noticed hideous creatures confronting both Guardian and Seph. He "saw" the battle as it began to pick up.

"People, our team has bad news outside. Hurry to the alleyway immediately!!"

Nicolas teleported outside to the alleyway between Alison and the advancing wraiths. As he erected a quick TK shield in front of Persephone in order to slow the battering of her body, he reached out to the closest wraith and tore out its throat with one motion. The other wraith he kicked down the length of the alley as he gracefully backflipped in place, taking advantage of his height to attack the beast.

"You guys REALLY picked the wrong night to fuck with us..."

[Dire Wraith]

they were greeted by yet ANOTHER super powered human. a tall, ebon skinned man who appeared to be full of vitality. powerfull as he was..he had no idea just who he was dealing with as he found his attempt to rip out the Wraith's throat FAILED completely. he was UNABLE to breach the extremely dense, rough skin and physical structure of the wraith. as he kicked ANOTHER wraith away from Guardian, the Wraith he had FIRST attacked GRABBED his wrist as he had reached out for her.

Dire Wraith: So! Persephone has found new humans to allign herself with. WHERE is the mighty Darkchilde? is she not here to try to protect you and FAIL as she did with her coven? Is this some TRICK on her part?

the wraith laughs as Rampage tries to control the situation

FOOL! You cannot destroy me so easily. I am as beyond your frail physiology as you are beyond that of the amoeba!

Rampage would find the strength of this hideous "female" creature was MORE than a match for his as she used her magicks to PARALYZE him and then began to CRUSH HIS wrist. her "hand" glowed with dark magick as she began DRAIN the life and energy from his body, removing his will to fight as vigorously. she pulled him forward and opened her jaws to reveal the long snaking tongue with the drill spinning edge which was now about to puncture the center of his forehead

meanwhile, the other two wraiths had transformed, using their shape shifting powers. they were now deathwings. extremely large avian creatures enshrouded in shadow with red eyes, they flew with INCREDIBLE speed and agility and were immune to psychic attacks. they began firing deadly powerfull concussive AND blasts of mystic flame at Persephone and Guardian to keep them from trying to help Rampage

[Rampage]

As the wraith bragged about her advantage over Nicolas, he raised the wraiths internal temperature using his pyrokinesis to several hundred degrees as he grabbed her hand that was latched to his wrist and flipped them both to the ground, using a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu arm bar technique to tear her arm off, or at least break it at the elbow using his legs.

[Foxfire]

Sage - green eyes carefully inspecting the pictures of Diana aka Malice. Blaze sat cross legged in her leather swivel chair, still hidden in her back office of XS. A small pair of Gucci glasses adoring her green eyes, supplying a studious look to the woman.

A few cigarettes now littered her black marble ashtray. A perplexed look written across her beautiful face. She seemed troubled by this woman and not just the events leading up to tonight. Her fingertips dancing across her keyboard to make a notation of Diana's manipulations.

She's a clever minx, you almost have to admire her craft.

She thought, setting her glasses above her widow's peak, rubbing her tired eyes. Leaning back in the chair. Her eyes scanning over the small biography that she kept on her computer. It was a faint list of Diana's capabilities as far as she witnessed. If Alison's assumptions were correct than both herself and Nicolas would be placed in a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

Blaze knew the final result of that deadly hand, she would lose. A fire manipulator against a woman who could copulate with her brain. Malice could stretch and twist the truth. She was exactly like Katherine from Basic Instinct except far more deadlier.

Saving her progress she shut down her computer. Standing up with a stretch before setting her glasses on the desk. She needed to be returning to Illustra anyway, it was getting late. Striding towards the door of her office exactly when she heard a long grasp for Delilah. Alison's voice bellowed out enough for Blaze to overhear this. It wasn't in the Seer's nature to ask for assistance, which meant it was serious.

Picking up her walk to a faster pace, she walked out of the office. Hurrying for the exit with Nicolas informing the remaining ladies trouble had been brewing. Was it Malice again? Running faster but not enough to cause a scene. Shutting the club doors behind her, Blaze disappeared down a darkened alleyway.

Persephone's sultry voice easily identified but the last remark stunned her. Family? It couldn't be Malice. Blaze's petite form had been enshrouded in shadow due to the degree of the moon, plus the on - going battle.

A powerful stream of lava came spluttering through the pitch darkness toward the being holding Nicolas. Yellow eyes glowing through the darkness until that 5'8 form was revealed. A palm raised in the air with the appearance of Blaze. Her spicy lava was moving with its own lively velocity toward the Dire Wraith's jaws.

"Relatives of yours, Alison?"

She remarked, her eyes easily following the red - eyed creatures. Cartwheeling over to one of the parked cars.

[Harbinger]

:: Guardian was prepared to fight to the death, and soon, Persephone came to the battle. The Seer was INSTANTLY reminded of what she saw in Darkchilde's timeline when Persephone cried out for vengeance.::

The Dire Wraiths...they MURDERED Darkchilde's coven...their timeline's version of Karen and Ororo....they were also killed by them! We saw the astral replay in Darkchilde's castle!

:: deadly concussive blasts came from above as DEATHWINGS began to attack Guardian and Persephone. the Seer extened her hand and manifested a circular force field to deflect the blast which immediately began to ricochet as it fractured into mini blasts and hit the walls of buildings around them::

:: now recalling her knowledge of the creatures, she called out::

Nicolas, your psychic attacks will NOT work against them. they are IMMUNE to telepathy.

:: it was too late as one wraith was upon him and using her magicks to paralyze him and drain his life force. but even as she reluctantly decided to TELEBLINK him out of harm's way, he managed to TURN THE TABLES on the powerfull wraith and as he damaged her physical body Foxfire's lava blast sealed her fate as she shrieked with pain and was mangled by the lava.::

:: hearing Blaze's comment, Alison turned and snapped on her::

OPEN YOUR EYES, FIRE FLY! these are the creatures that decimated Darkchilde's coven..her FAMILY. They killed Karen and Ororo in that timeline and Persephone and DC were the only ones to survive.

:: at that moment the Deathwing above made a DEADLY pass at Guardian and Foxfire. Guardian dodged as she used her newly honed LEVITATION to vault over the winged creature. twisting her body in the air, she landed on a metal stairwell and now had a higher vantage point. she locked on that deathwing and took aim as she extended her gloved hands a dark halo of magick formed around them::

[Oracle]

<< with the efforts of Rampage and Foxfire, a second wraith went down. two were left NOT COUNTING the two deathwings.>>

<<thankfully with the wild summer storm, the sounds of nature overpowered the sounds of battle and no one was around to see what was happening in the nighttime terror behind XS>>


<< Guardian gracefully evaded the deathwing's deadly pass and was now at a higher vantage point. the deathwings were fast...despite their immense size and if their blasts connected with any unprotected body...they would totally OBLITERATE whatever they touched. as that particular deathwing began to close in Foxfire, Guardian took aim, preparing to show them that SHE was not without magickal power herself.>>

<< meanwhile, the cries of the fallen wraith didnt go unnoticed by her sisters as ANOTHER of the four wraiths slammed Rampage in his head with a blast of dark magick and if it didnt knock him out..it WOULD leave him with a painfull headache. before he would realize WHERE she was he would be confronted with the image of "Guardian" while GUARDIAN herself now "appeared" to be the WRAITH. The Wraith had used her power of shapshifting to assume the form of Alison Marble and cloaked the REAL "alison" in a real as life illusion making it appear that GUARDIAN herself had fired upon Rampage!>>



<< the last of the four wraiths joined deathwings in the FIERCE assault against Persephone and now Foxfire, as she flooded the area around them with enchantments that began to DETONATE around them designed to prevent them from free movement and jarring their bodies with concussive impact.>>

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Rain pounded heavily on Persephone, hearing the Dire Wraith's speak with such hatred and contempt toward her. With shock and confusion. Their voices so familiar to Persephone it literally made her sick to her stomach. With clenched teeth, as they spoke of her friends--the people she loved--the goddess' anger level sky rocketed. ::

:: Suddenly an onslaught of acidic attacks hit Persephone, burning her flesh and creating gash like wounds on her exposed skin. Holding in her screams of pain, she REFUSED to allow the Dire Wraiths to hear her cry out. She wouldn't give them the satisfaction. But the attack soon faded once Rampage enforced a shield around her. Lifting her head up, drenched locks of black hair stuck across her face, covering most of the gashes and sores created by the acidic attack, but still revealing that she was hurt. Persephone's eyes were as black as the sky, her face expressing sheer hatred and anger. ::

:: Before she was able to unleash an attack, blasts began to detonate around Persephone and Foxfire, causing the goddess to put up her arms defensively as her body began to bounce in different directions from the explosions. Jarred and dazed from the impacts of the explosion, Persephone could feel the pangs of pain along her body from the impact of the assult. Soon, high winds began to circle around Persephone's body as a small cyclon formed. The goddess instantly lifted into the air, bypassing the enchantments, before landing feet away near one of the Dire Wraiths. ::

"I'LL MURDER EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!"

:: As she screamed out her threats of vengeance, the heavy winds continued to pick up, blowing toward the Dire Wraith. Suddenly the winds behind the Dire Wraiths changed direction as well, blowing toward them too, creating what could only be discribed as two "walls" of gail force winds slamming into the creatures. But as Persephone stepped forward, the summer's warm soon turned a blistering cold--the winds suddenly becoming visable to show two actual ice block coming from both directions ready to SLAM into the Dire Wraith and CRUSH her whole. ::

[Alice Cullen]

Meanwhile, half a world away, Haleigh sits perched on a rock at the top of a mountain. The time difference between the tranquility where she is and the chaos in New York could not be more noticable: it is the pitch of night back at home, where her comrades fight for their lives, and the sun rises here. Haleigh gazes off in the distance, taken by the spectacular view. The sound of pebbles scattering down the mountainside to her left grabs her attention, and she turns to see the gleam of a handgun between her and Ava Cassadine. Haleigh is less than concerned. She turns her eyes back to the sunrise.

"Do you really think that will help you, Ava?"

Ava:"Your draw was always quicker than mine... do you mean to tell me you are unarmed?"


Haleigh sighed and shook her head, as Ava tucked her gun away in her purse, slightly surprised... but then... these very circumstances were surprising for Ava.

"I've no reason. I wouldn't kill you... Mom has already lost one daughter..... she doesn't deserve to lose the other."

Ava kept her eyes on Haleigh, as she sat down on a flat rock a few feet away. She knew Haleigh was here for a serious reason... but the past proved to be so heavy between the two that they fell into an old rhythym.

Ava: "Whatever. I talk to her every couple of weeks... but I can tell she'd rather be talking to you. She always loved you more... because you were a living, breathing reminder of him-- her true love. All I remind her of is second-best... a failed relationship that ended in divorce and disappointment. [She gives a short laugh] I remember going to your funeral years ago... she cried... and cried... she could hardly speak.... and NO ONE could understand her when she DID put words together. and I remember realizing that... she wouldn't weep like that for me."

Haleigh snapped her glare to Ava, a scowl on her face... she wasn't having this game.... not today.

"You SHUT up. She's your MOTHER, and She loved you too... she had to accept that you'd rather run off to be Stav's little princess... but she wanted you to be happy.... no matter what that meant for her... and it was HARD for her to see you go. So you just shut your mouth."

Ava seemed stung... mostly by her older sister's scolding tone. There had been sibling rivalry between them since as long as Ava could remember [instigated by Stavros, who also knew and resented what Haleigh represented for her mother]. But Haleigh's harsh tone put a stop to fires that had been stoking for years, and brought what was between them to a crashing halt with her response, and the insight into their mother's state of mind after Ava followed her father to Greece. Ava found her voice, and, in typical younger sister fashion, deflected the focus back to Haleigh.

Ava:"Alright then... what is it that you want to talk about so badly? You have some guy drag me up here to the top of Mount Olympus at the crack of dawn.... whats with all this cloak and dagger shit?"

Haleigh looked back out at the horizon.... she decides to shoot for the hip. She passes Ava a manilla folder and explains as best she can under the shotgun circumstances. "Your father's in over his head with this Mystech business. Mystech is going down... and I have a colleague who is investigating Stav thouroughly.... I have reason to believe you might be in danger as well... there is a woman.... well.... she's a wildcard.... there's no telling what she'll do... to him or you."

Ava: "So throw them off. You've done it before...."

Haleigh shook her head again. "Its too late for that. They've got information on you both.... that no one else would have.... and they are going after Stav. in that folder is id, passport, travel money and a one way ticket to Kentucky. Tell Mom to pick you up... She'll wait to ask questions until afterwards... There will be a safety deposit box wait for you with plenty of money for you to RETIRE on."

Ava:"and what? LEAVE my father high and dry? Are you insane? You expect me to just--"

Haleigh's eyes flash with slight agitation and she cuts Ava off. "I EXPECT you to do what you do best- THINK ABOUT YOURSELF! Stavros is no longer your future.. no more than Mom was when Stavros ran off to Greece to get filthy rich and you went with him."

Ava: "You're a FOOL if you think I'm not going to tell him about this."

Haleigh sighed and covered her face with her hands. Nothing was ever easy. She considered that she potentially put several lives in danger-- both Ava and Stav's AND her own friends who were going after them....

"Do what you want... I don't care. I have done everything I can... your life is in YOUR hands now... and let me just say... Stavros is going down.... and YOU are a fool if you don't do what necessary to protect yourself. You are more useful to these people of you are gone... as in... nowhere to be FOUND."

Ava: "What AREN'T you telling me?" She asks with narrowed eyes.

Haleigh shrugs and begins to disappear. "Tell Mom I love her." Haleigh's voice lingers eerily. Ava has long known that Haleigh can work 'magic' with technology, and that she heads up an agency that specializes in futuristic gear, so the sight of her sister disappear from view isnt startling. Ava herself came along with one of Haleigh's men who used a molecular dispersement chip hidden in a watch.... a man that had left them immediately to privacy.

Ava:"Wait... dont TELL me I've got to hike all the way down this DAMNED mountain!"

[MorningStar]

[ Delilah began to return Nicolas' smile - maybe it was worth giving him another chance. Her thoughts were interrupted, however, as her head was invaded by Alison's call. Her own name reverberated in her ears. Before Nicolas could verbalize what he was seeing, Delilah was running. Running to Alison.

Reaching the alley, she gasped in shock as she saw Persephone and Foxfire engaging one Dire Wraith, while Rampage faced another and Guardian battled the deadly deathwings.

She saw that Persephone's ice walls were closing in. ]

"Damn."

[ That girl sure had some fun tricks up her sleeve. ]

"You guys started the party without me."

[ Delilah raised her hands to the sky, firing green photon blasts directly at one of the deathwings. ]

[Dire Wraith]

the dire wraith who had joined the deathwings in attacking Foxfire and Persephone now found herself gripped by the painfull COLD of Persephone's attack! could this wretched "goddess" have REMEMBERED what Ororo had said when last they fought? that the sub zero cold was one of their weaknesses? even after all this time? whether it was because of that or just a random selection on Persephone's part..the wretched woman's attack had DEADLY effect as the wraith cried out

Dire Wraith: ARRGHH!! the cursed cold!!! it saps my strength...i cannot cast my spells!!!


falling back and shaking violently from the furious cold, the walls of ice SLAM into her. she screams before she is crused. her body unable to channel dark magick, or function properly, she is rendered inert by the attack and her broken body falls to the ground

---------

meanwhile

the last wraith who now appears to be "Guardian" is attacking Rampage, making it look like Alison has fired upon him for no reason. she continues to pepper him with mystic force bolts that LOOK like Guardian's and have the same deadly concussive impact.

"Guardian": once your DEAD no one will miss you ANYWAY!

the masqueraded wraith smiles with a demonic gleam in her eye as she continues to attack Rampage while posing as Guardian, she calls out to the others, who have NOT seen her attacking Rampage

THERE's ANOTHER WRAITH ON THE STAIRWELL! DESTROY HER before she can cast one of her spells!

pointing at the REAL Alison who now is cloaked by an Illusion and looks like a Dire Wraith. with the rain falling and thunder crashing, followed by lightning. everything looked and FELT so chaotic. the rain made it harder for some to see but would anyone present see through this clever illusion before they wre tricked into destroying one of their own?

[Oracle]

<< after a relatively short but harrowing battle, the members of the Six finally began to show signs of triumph over this sudden attack by this new and mysterious group of foes. with one more wraith fallen there only remained one other and now with the arrival of MorningStar, a deathwing is blasted quite efficiently out of the air as she NAILS it with her photon blast, a powerful pressor beam of focused light photons that activates at the "speed of light" and is powerfull enough to smash through a solid mountain!>>

<< as she blasts the deathwing, it lets out a cry of pain before it spirals down smashing to the ground, a large gaping hole now on its underbelly, the deathing dies and begins to discorporate right then and there, leaving on one more deathwing to deal with>>

<< MorningStar, Presephone and Foxfire are left to deal with the remaining deathwing while Rampage is confronted by a most difficult situation...and Guardian is an unwitting pawn in the remaining Wraith's strategem. Will the others be able to figure out what is going on before its too late? as the storm rages on...we shall see.>>

[Foxfire]

Diving forward to avoid the deadly swoop of the deathwing, who had been targeting both Guardian and Foxfire. Rolling into a tumbling stance, Foxfire glanced back at Guardian who addressed her comment. She figured the Seer would become irritated, which is exactly what she was going for. Blaze had lightly manipulated Guardian’s emotions to secure their battle with these mysterious beings. It supplied the Six with a bit of edge, especially when Alison was flustered.

Large droplets of rain soaking her attire, making it difficult to be mobile. Standing up, Blaze shielded the falling rain from her eyes. Blinking any water from her eyes, unaware a deathwing was approaching.

Stepping next to Persephone who was clearly agitated. Although Foxfire couldn’t blame her, these monsters butchered her beloved friends and family. Zooming in on the outline of the zooming figures in the sky, Fox attempted to lock on their silhouette but found it to no avail.

Small fragments of enchantments surrounded Persephone and Foxfire. One of the enchantments hidden underneath the rear end of a black Lexis. The enchantment exploding on contact with the car lunging upward a foot or so. The trunk area of the luxury car catching fire through the fierce summer storm.

Blaze, who had been standing beside the side of the car felt the ground tremble. Her own body reacting harshly to the adrenaline surge she suffered. The explosion enough to deafening even her keen ears. Her body rocked and shook from the impact, jumping backwards only to see chunks of pavement and concrete splash through the air. Raising a hand to shield her eyes, her palm shooting out as a blast of fire hurried through the air, melting the rubble.

It felt like a war jet had been dropping bombs on herself and Persephone. Shaking her head from the ringing in her ears. The rain assisting to extinguish some of the flames around the car. Fox barely heard Persephone’s war cry for vengeance. It came out in splutters of words, almost incoherent.

Cartwheeling away from the fallen enchantments, Blaze noticed the sudden appearance of Morningstar. When did she get here? Blaze couldn’t recall but the assistance of another team member was greatly appreciated. Vicious icy winds whipped throughout the eastern coast or so it seemed. At first, the mutant thought it was the stormy weather.

But after noticing Persephone she put the pieces of the puzzle together.

Surveying the team, Blaze made sure to check on the others. A bit of a chill coursing through her cool body from the lashing winds. Blaze’s firepower wouldn’t be as useful in this situation but she had other ideas. Moving to assist Morningstar and Persephone, Blaze walked right into an enchantment. The small magical device imploding against a brick wall. The bricks spraying bullets at Foxfire. Unable to react fast enough, Blaze was hit maliciously.

Buried under a rumble of bricks, the fire manipulator was in trouble. A small gash adored her forearm where she had protected her head. Dust and dirt rolling off the pile of rubble. Blaze found herself suffocating under the debris. Pushing her way through the bricks, moving them out of her way. Her head poking out of the rubble, feeling dazed. Voices dancing off the back alleyway, some of them she could identify.

Blowing up the surrounding bricks, they bounced off her in the blink of an eye. Small flickers of fire lined the square bricks. Gasping and coughing a few breaths, she looked up to see Nicolas in trouble.

"Guardian" insinuating there was another Wraith on the stairwell. Raising a shaky hand to the real Guardian, attempting to fire a high powered fireball. The winds helping to blow the scent of Alison in her direction. Sniffing the air, Blaze frowned unsure what her eyes believed and her nose was telling her. Zooming in to see a more precise look, it resembled the Wraith but Blaze’s wasn’t sure.

Turning her eyes to "Guardian", Blaze could smell a contrasting odor. Lowering her hands, "I don’t believe that’s a Dire Wraith. Its Alison. That is the Dire Wraith." Fox’s slender index finger pointing to the real imposter.

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Persephone's ebony eyes gleamed as the sub zero winds whipped around the Dire Wraith, stunning it and preventing it from using it's powers. She had not forgotten their weakness, and she would use it to her advantage. Watching the two massive ice walls slam into the Dire Wraith, crushing it's body, her eyes stayed focus on the dead wraith, laying helplessly among the debris of ice. Heaving in labored breaths, the satisfaction of seeing atleast one of them die at her hand was short lived once hearing Guardian state that there was yet another wraith by the stairs. Turning her head into the direction of the "wraith", Persephone's long soaked locks whipped around in the air before connection and clinging to her face. She was fully prepared to attack until Foxfire alerted her that the "wraith" was in fact Alison. ::

:: Looking to Blaze, she knew the woman had a heighten senses and a connection to the precog. The goddess knew the Dire Wraith's had many tricks up their sleeves, and illusions was most definitely one of them. With Foxfire's claim and her own knowledge of the wraiths, that was enough for Persephone to turn her attention to "Guardian" who was attacking Rampage. ::

"Go to Guardian!"

:: Alerting Foxfire and Morningstar to protect/guard Alison, obviously the wraiths wanted Guardian for something; if not to kill her but to take her. After killing one Dire Wraith, Persephone could taste vengeance. A taste she desired more of. Sprinting forward, Persephone thrust both hands out in front of her, blowing the pooring rain into "Guardian" in a stream like effect. Dropping the temperature down once again to a sub zero level, the rain began to crystalize and freeze instantly at "Guardian's" feet, literally freezing her to the cement. Running forward, she leapt into the air near the brick wall of the building behind the real dire wraith. With cat like skill and agility, Persephone pushed her weight off the wall with her foot, spinning in the air and connecting the same foot with "Guardian's" face. As she completed the 360 rotation, a massive ice "stake" formed in Persephone's hand allowing her to SLAM the ice stake into the "Guardian's" neck, releasing sub zero temperatures INTO her body...not to mention giving her one nasty wound. ::

:: To the others, it looked like Persephone had literally killed Alison; the ice stake in one end of her neck, and out the other. Standing in front of the wraith, Persephone's black hair stuck to her face and body, mirroring her blackened eyes. She looked sadistic; every bit the devious and horrible woman that she was known as in her timeline. ::

[Rampage]

Nicolas was deflecting the blasts from "Alison" as best as he could while preparing to attack the wraith on the ledge when he "heard" Blaze distinguish the illusion. To his relief the "Alison" trying to kill him was the wraith, not the real team leader. With the attacks of Persephone (who also figured out the trick and seemed to have things well in hand) freeing him up, he quickly turned his attention to the Deathwing that seemed intent on doing something to the others.

With a nod of concentration, Nicolas removed all of the water from the Deathwing's body as he fired a concentrated TK blast at it.

[Oracle]

<< Nicolas managed to disable the deathwing long enough to force it to revert to its true wraith form which was now on the ground and very weakened but not dead but for the moment, the bigger question was "which was which" as the group was temporarily confused by the illusory spell cast by the other wraith.>>

<< after a few frantic moments of uncertainty, Foxfire was able to discern Alison from the Wraith and the group now knew who to attack but even as Persephone lashed out a this wraith and the spell was broken...a soft, wicked could be heard in the air as thunder rolled on. the storm seemed to slacken just a bit as a shadowed, feminine figure appeared down the way in the alley.>>

<< Alison was no longer on the stairwell, she was GONE>>

[Malice]

:: clapping her hands sarcastically as Persephone attacked the last wraith and dirsupted the spell::

BRAVO!

So "the Six" have added yet ANOTHER member to their parade of losers.

:: the cloaked woman stepped out of the shadows, revealing herself to be MALICE, and looking simply evil yet also sexy in her white, low cut, front lace up corsett and matching white hot pants along with her white knee high heeled boots. the outfit was rounded off by a hooded cloak that connected to the costume with a blue/white diamond brooch.::

and she is AQUAINTED with the Dire Wraiths? I'll have to keep an EYE on her.

:: Malice's wicked, gleaming smile flashed::

meanwhile, your precious precog is MINE now. I've already subdued her and captured her. she's somewhere you cannot reach her.

:: looking among them::

you may have held your own in this battle, but the truth is, this was ONLY meant to occupy you while I captured Guardian. I get tired of beating you down so i thought i'd give you something to do to make you feel good about yourselves.

:: looking at Nicolas::

care to try your luck?

:: looking at Blaze::

I always did like crushing the spirit of someone with a false sense of hope.

::looking at Morningstar::

I have what i came for, and the funny thing is, for all the flashing and flossing that some of your team mates like to do

:: looking at nicolas with a mocking expression::

I STILL managed to one up you...AGAIN! and THIS, is only the BEGINNING!

:: Malice extends her hands and a crashing sound of energy is heard lashes out with a wave of PSI LIGHTNING. beams of white energy surrounded by jagged , white sparkling lightning bolts that charge MADLY for the four members of the Six. With Alison captured, none of the others present possesed Psi Screens and Nicolas KNEW that Malice was a stronger, more vicious and experienced telepath than he was. the Psi Lightning would attack and SMASH through their mental defenses and violate their minds with the piercing white hot pain as it set them on fire sent convulsions of pain through their bodies::

:: she laughed out loud::

WRAITHS, FINISH THEM OFF!

:: from BEHIND Malice came an ARMY of wraiths who began to flood the area with their enchantments and streams of dark magick, it was a similar manifestation to what Morgan had done in the Citadle when fighting Imagiomg. all at once, in unison with Malice's attack...the Wraiths DETONATE their attack on her mark and the entire alley is radiated with a ballistic explosion.::

[Rampage]

With th appearance of Malice, Nicolas realized that this was truly a setup. As she spoke, he reached out with his TK to verify that it was her and not simply an ast5ral projection, then looked for a way out, connecting with his three remaining teammates. As she projected the lightning coordinated with the new wraiths' attack, he momentarily linked their minds combining their wills and set up his best telepathic shield to protect them as much as possible and teleported the four to SWITCH them with the wraiths that he had already found from his earlier search, leaving the wraiths in the middle of the trap that had been set for the team.

[MorningStar]

[ MorningStar stood in confused, stunned silence as she saw Persephone attack "Guardian". She hadn't heard Blaze's comment and began running to attack the goddess, who appeared to be KILLING Alison! But before she could attack, the illusion was broken and the dire wraith's true form revealed.

She looked back to where Guardian had been located before, then around the alley, but she was no where to be found. Then Malice appeared.

As the White Queen revealed her scheme, MorningStar immediately reached out trying to gather any soundwaves indicating Alison's location but found nothing. Just then her body was hit by Malice's psi lightning. She fell to the floor, her body wracked with pain, piercing her mind. She couldn't think, couldn't move, until...

She found herself teleported away from Malice's attack. Raising her arm she attempted to throw up a protective light shield around the group as a massive explosion rocked the alley. ]

[Alice Cullen]

Haleigh reappeared in her office, the lights dimming on her command. She looked forlorn and concerned, and she sunk into her throne like leather chair with a sigh. Thunder rolled as she massaged her temples, and she rolled her eyes and turned her chair around to look out the window at the storm. Lightning illuminated the room and revealed rain falling in torrents. Hellish storm.... she thought, good thing Zach's already in. She turned back to her desk to check Illustra for her teammates.

"Hmm...."

She murmured aloud to herself, as she noticed everyone was gone, even Alison. She got a bad feeling immediately... as if her intuition was telling her that something had to be wrong for Alison to leave... and she took a deep breath and gave her computer a voice command.

"Playback footage of Alison Marble's last activities before departure."

A window popped up as per her request, and Haleigh watched [and listened] as Alison and Morningstar talked briefly before hurrying off to help bring the rest of the team back. The mention of Malice sent a creeping chill down Haleigh's spine... She looked at the timestamp.... the events didn't happen TOO long ago, as to merit worry.... but an uneasy nausea settled in her stomach. She told herself that she was being paranoid... that Alison was probably on her way back right now, dragging a kicking and screaming Blaze back with her.

Zach:"Haleigh? Ah, I thought I heard your voice."

Haleigh looked up, startled. Zach was standing in the doorway, a soft smile on her face.

Zach:"I got your message. Greece, huh? You went to see her, didn't you?"

Haleigh paused, then nodded.... and began to explain, happy to have a distraction from her worry... about her sister, about Alycia's plans for Stav, about her comrades out of the safe protection of Illustra.... and to finally have someone she could confide in... Zach's opinion was always sound.

"Do you think..... should I tell them?"

[Pam Ravenscroft]

:: Seeing Guardian's image disappear and reveal the true Dire Wraith she had killed, Persephone took a step back watching the beast drop to the ground. Before she could even be satisfied with murdering yet another one, a woman's clap caught her attention. ::

:: Looking up, Malice strode forward as confedent as ever, grinning with cockiness. She began to berate everyone and explain that SHE had brought the Dire Wraiths into this timeline. That alone made Persephone want to rip her throat out. Stepping forward ready to attack the woman in white, the goddess stopped realizing that Alison was gone. Looking to Foxfire and Morningstar, she had specifically instructed them to watch Alison's back! Biting her tongue, she wouldn't give Malice the satisfaction of knowing she was pissed at her teammates, not when she was already on her high horse. ::

:: Suddenly more Dire Wraiths appeared behind Malice before she unleashed a massive attack against the group. Grabbing her head in pain, Persephone dropped to her knees feeling as if her brain was oozing from her ears. Gritting her teeth, she couldn't help but cry out in agony. But just as the attack began to get worse, the pain suddenly stopped. Opening her eyes, she saw that the group had switched places with the Dire Wraiths and they were being subjected to Malice's attack. Looking to Rampage, it was obviously his doing. ::

"We need to regroup back at Illustra. You're powers aren't strong enough to take on Malice alone, and without Guardian here we're sitting ducks to her games."

[Oracle]

<< as the white queen declared that she had achieved her goal AND introduced a new harrassment campaign against the six, she unleashed a powerfull psychic attack. of all those present, Rampage was the only one who had the best chance of defending himself and the team and he did so in a clever move that not only saved their minds, but their lives.>>

<< in a flurry of magick, confusion and choas, the alley was torched by a ballistic explosion but Morningstar's laser force field deflected/vaporized any debris/shrapnel and saved the team from the brunt of the shockwave though they did get jostled by it. overall, the four members of the six held their own well enough all things considered but Persephone was right, they WOULDNT be able to survive for long against Malice AND the Wraiths, who seemed to "keep coming". Though Malice's powerfull attack was now being unleashed against the wraiths, who had been "moved" by Rampage, their own psi screen's protected them from the mental assault leaving them to be fried by the physical lightning itself. Malice halted her attack and realized that only Rampage could have been responsible for this since no other teleporter was present.>>

<< Guardian was gone, captured by Malice and the team was at a disadvantage out in this storm. they needed to get back to Illustra and FAST and figure out their best course of action not only for their sake but for Alison's as well.>>

<< and as the Six prepared to withdraw, so too did Malice and the Dire Wraiths with only her evil laugh in the air blending with the winds.>>

<< The members of the Six were spirited away back to Illustra courtesy of Morningstar's "wormhole" that moved them at the speed of light. they were now inside, drenched from the battle in the rain and Haleigh would notice that Alison was NOT among them.>>


<< this was just beginning.>>