Return to Illustra

[Jill Monroe]

<< as the storm runs its course and fades off into a light sprinkle....the dawn of a new day is upon NYC..as its citizens slowly rise to begin their various routines>>

<< Spellbinder has just finished her morning session of intense yoga..and is now in her shower chambers..lavishing her body as she prepares for her busy day....meetings at Illustra with a new, highly respected and powerful business man seeking to partner with Illustra for the promotion for a multimillion dollar line of luxury hotels and resorts as well as an interview with Alexis Chandler Quatermaine of Tempo Magazine, one of the hottest magazines of the high society and fashion world and a photo shoot with a famour photographer from the reputable Liquid Crystal studios. when all is said and done they will most likely round off the interview with a late lunch at a restaurant in town.>>

<<the day is just beginning..but for Spellbinder it feels that last night hasnt ended...though she looks refreshed..her mind and her heart ache with fatigue and discontent...fleeting images of the disturbing dream still haunt her.>>


<but spellbinder is not the only one who has begun her day...>>

[Jacob Black]

« The water from the shower poured all over Cameron's body. He thought the warm water would make him feel refreshed and ready for the day, but a night of tossing and turning had just turned into a morning of exhaustion and over exertion. As he turned the water off, he stepped out of the shower and grabbed a towel, wrapping it around his waist before heading into the kitchen. There he was greeted by Vivica who already up and moving, talking on the phone and filling in notes for Cameron for his meeting. She was like nobody he had ever met. Even through all of her busy work, she took the time to smirk at Cameron and laugh. »

"Oh please... put some clothes on..."

« Cameron laughed as he poured a cup of coffee from the machine. He had to wake up if he was going to get through today. He had a meeting with Illustra this morning with their new CEO, Morgan Victoria. The Famous Ex Supermodel, whom from what Cameron had seen in the tabloids had gone awol from the Modeling World, and was a suspected Witch with a Mutant Team in Europe. If Ms. Victoria was a witch, Cameron should be able to tell. He could always pick up on that kind of thing. As Vivica got off the phone, he looked to her and glanced at his notes. »

"Ok.. we need to go in prepared today Vi. I want to make sure everything is in order. From what I have heard about this Morgan Victoria, it is that she is a ballbuster. If she busts mine, I'll have to bust yours. Let's go over our opening statement again."

« And so on the top floor of the Waldorf Estoria, Cameron and Vivica went over the presentation, awaiting for their 3:00pm meeting at Illustra as the rest of the citizens of the city rose from their slumber as well. Today was going to be an interesting day. Even though he didn't pick up on it right away, he was excited to meet the famous Morgan Victoria. He had been a huge fan of her work, and to actually be working with her was an honor, but that was a side that Cameron never showed. He would go into the meeting like he always did. Determined, focused, and not accepting anything that would screw his company over. He didn't get this far by being nice. His thoughts went back to the presentation, getting ready to face the day. »

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: After only a few hours of sleep from the night before, Alexis entered the corporate office of Tempo Magazine a tad bit sluggish this morning. Even though she was extremely tired, she never looked it, and refused to allow any of her co workers to see otherwise. Dressed in a beautiful Dolce and Gabanna business suite (http://www2.victoriassecret.com/images/prodlgvw/V229460.jpg), she made sure she was always dressed profession but stylish and sexy. ::

:: It was around 8am and the office was already hectic with workers trying to finish their deadlines. Grabbing a stack of papers as she walked by Tracy, her assistance, desk, she shuffled through them seeing she had a meeting with Morgan Victoria. Rolling her eyes, she entered her large office and threw the stack of papers on her desk. ::

"Tracy!"

:: Her voice carried over the noise of busy workers and reached the ears of Tracy. As her assistant rushed into her office, Alexis dropped her purse and suite case on top of her desk and sat down behind it. Leaning back, she ran her slender fingers through her wavy blonde locks, letting out an annoyed sigh, very obvious to Tracy that she didn't wish to interview Miss Victoria. ::

"Okay, we have yet another bratty has-been model to interview today. Unfortunately my bosses wish for me to do the interview because they feel they can't torture me enough."

:: Standing up from behind her desk, she made her way to her office windows, looking outside at the busy streets below. Her sapphire blue eyes studying the surroundings outside sensing their was something not right about today. She felt this feeling last night also...but it wasn't this apparent to her. Parting her glossy pink lips, she gently shook her head and turned around facing Tracy once more. ::

"So, I need you to get everything you need to make this woman happy. Bottles of imported water, Italian brewed coffee, laxatives, whatever is needed to make her happy, easy to deal with, and out of my hair ASAP. Understood?"

:: Unbuttoning her white blazer, she headed back over to her desk and picked up the stack of papers she threw their from before. Looking over them once again. ::

"Also I need you to get on the line with Cameron Diaz' representatives and explain we have to reschedule the interview for two weeks. Also make sure Janet has the new layouts for the table of contents in my hands by 12 o'clock. I'm getting tired of her half ass attitude. Either she gets it to me by 12 or she's fired."

:: As Tracy went to head out the door, Alexis walked back around to her chair and sat down. Crossing her long slender legs, she immediately picked up the phone and began to dial. Before Tracy could step one foot out the door, she glanced up at her assistant. ::

"Oh, and tell Janet if it's not perfect she will not only be fired, I will make sure she can't even get a job at Nickelodeon magazine."

:: Tracy hesitating somewhat, she continued her way out of Alexis' office. Putting the phone to her ear, Alexis finished dialing and sat back. Looking outside of her office window she took a deep breath in and slowly allowed herself to relax. ::

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh Davidoff stares out the glass doors, watching the last hints of the storm disappear over the water as the sun takes to the sky. She had been with the storm since it began just after three am... she'd watched it for hours, lounging in her bedroom, watching it through the huge windows.... mulling over the terrible feeling that had been lingering over her since it began. She'd kept up with its destruction as she fixed herself a five star breakfast around five am, and seen it begin to slow as she ate. She fixes an earpiece to her ear as she finishes her 'breakfast'. She stands from her barstool, lifting her plate and taking it to the sink, untying her silk robe to allow it open for airflow.

"Alluisi."

She says firmly, licking her lips and taking her glass. Her phone dials thefamiliar number, as she moves to her bedroom to change out of her nightclothes. She pulls a pinstriped suit from her evergrowing closet, as a voice on the other ends answers.

>>Well.... Haleigh, you called me... that's a damn shock. Is something wrong?
"Haha.... I just... wanted to talk to you. I wanted to make sure you were still with me. I take it the mission when okay?"
>>Yes, it was a success. Without a hitch. Of course I'm still with you. You can't get rid of me that easily. You sleep?
"Cass.... you know I don't sleep. Anyways, the sun is rising here, it's nearly six am. I'm heading into the office. Any nightmares?"
>>Always. I'd rather not talk about it on the phone. There's some kind of mechanical problem with the jet, so I might end up stay here longer than planned. Brandon wants to take me to dinner, be a tourist a while.
"Well, listen, that's no problem. I'll take over your meetings for today. Take your time in Taipei... enjoy a little vacation. Are there any meetings I can't cancel?"
>>Yeah, actually. I was going in to oversee a photoshoot with Illustra, and talk to their exec. Cancel the rest, but that one is big money. some kind of high priority promotion with that hotel chain, I believe. Go to that one for me. Try to smile.
"Yeah.... I'll try. Listen, Cass.... something bad is happening. Bad for us, anyway... I can't explain, just a terrible feeling."
>>Well... i don't know what to tell you. I'll ask around, maybe I can't see if there are any major movements in the intelligence world we haven't covered yet.
"Thanks... well, I gotta go, MY jet is waiting."
>>Okay, I'll see you later. Hey... keep your head up. i'm sure its nothing to worry about.
"Yeah. Later."

She said, not sounding convinced, as she pulled the earpiece from her ear and looked at herself in the full length mirror. She ran her fingers through blonde hair, brushing a piece of lint from her shoulder as she turned to leave. Living in Worcester was good for the peace and quiet she liked. It wasn't the constant city static of New york, thankfully. It was about an hour's drive away, and Haleigh took a company leerjet to save time. She got to the small airport a few minutes later, nodding to the pilot that she was ready and making her way out to her plane.


******

She walked through Liquid Crystal doors and was immediately tended to. She signed three different forms for approval of various things and recieved a folder containing the business for the day. She had her partner's meetings cancelled, all except the Illustra affair.

"Tom, prepare a vehicle for the photogarpher... [she flips to the next page in her folder to find his name] James Evanko and I to take to the shoot. Illustra in Manhattan is our destination. He's our best, right?"

Assistant: "Yes madam, he's won several awards. But, my name is Tim... um, do you want a sedan or an SUV?"

Haleigh nodded to accept the photographer's credentials, but didn't acknowledge her assistants correction of his name. She despised people correcting her. He'd be fired within the hour.

"The Mercedes will be fine. I want it ready in ten. Make sure sure Evanko knows he's riding with me and not the crew. I'll be in my office."

She took the executive elevater to sublevel four, and as soon as she stepped offf, she was approached by five more people relating business to her. she'd hardly been gone five hours, but she got news of the success of the taipei mission, the responses to acceptance of an offer of weaponry to a client, and other intelligence news. she was walking through her REAL corporation, Clandestine Intelligence.

"Very good. Cancel My breifings for this morning to late afternoon. I'll be out."

She said, sitting down behind her desk. She passed out direction to three different people, sipping the hot coffee that was handed to her as she started business for the day. By the time she finished, her deskphone rang.

"Davidoff."
>>Yes, um, miss Davidoff... the photographer and the car is ready.
"Good. Oh, and Tom? Clear your desk out. You're fired."
>>I--

Haleigh hung up coldly and stood from her desk, walking confidently out of her office, telling her CI assistant to interview new applicants for a LCI assisstant position. She took the elevator back up, glad to be so busy again. She acknowledged a goodlooking man introducing himself as the photographer, but neglected to shake his hand as they both climbed into the classy black Mercedes Benz that would take them to the shoot.

[Jill Monroe]

<< Spellbinder stands in front of her three way crystaline mirrors...looking over her tall , statuesque figure....wearing simple fitting, black cashmere sweater with a khaki pencil skirt with a hemline a few inches above the knee along with black knee high heeled boots, Spell had a look of easy , chic elegance for the winter time...her blonde double highlighted hair was pulled back into a stylish, glossed bun..giving her a simple yet beautiful look and allowing full attention to her face and its wintery elegance. it was effortless business chic..but her body was still very much flattered by the cut of the clothes>>

<< opting NOT to call for a Limo.....Spellbinder turned around once...leaning down to kiss her kitten tinkerbell goodbye on the forehead before grabbing her prada bag...and opening a stepping disc with a loud blast of thunder..and in the twinkling of the sorceress' eye...she teleports from her palatial apartment to Illustra...located next to Trump Towers...and just as tall.>>

<<arriving at Illustra...the premier fashion/modeling agency of the east coast and known around the world for its provocative yet classically themed imagery and prestinely elegant super models...the company is abuzz with activity from the first floor all the way up to the circular executive offices/suites on the 50th floor>>

<< Morgan began her walk through the stylish vestibule...and immediately was attended by her assitants as members of staff smiled and waved and greeted>>

Assistant: Miss Victoria......your 9 o'clock has not arrived yet..but preperations have been made for you in the circular executive suite over looking central park....and ensured that no untimely interruptions will occurr.

Alexis Quatermaine of Tempo will be arriving at 1 pm as well as Haleigh Davidoff for the interview and photo shoot. we have set up the media room on the 45th floor....all is in readiness


<< Morgan walked at a steady pace..with that trademark elegant bounce in her step...and allthough her face was flawless ...she looked detatched and uninterested...it was as though she was on auto pilot. indeed she had been this way ever since returning form valiant...and although her staff worked dilligently with her to insure that Illustra continued to succeed as much as it did....they all noticed the change in their former signature super model turned CEO....her assistant looked..but didnt comment...though she wished she knew just what had happend to Morgan to make her this way>>

Morgan: <<in an icy voice>> ....thank you Alison....

<< the two women made their way up to the 50th floor...in the expres elevator....and stepped out..making their way down the long hall...to the last circular executive suite...which faced central park...the room seemlessly flowed with an uniterrupted view of the room. the cold, contemporary decor of the office matched the icy woman that helmed the company...as she slowly sat in the head chair of the conference table..>>

Alison: i will return when Mr. King and his people arrive Miss Victoria.

Morgan: many thanks, alison.

<< as alison left and closed the doors behind her.........Morgan put her hands to her face...and sighed with anguish....images of foxfire blaired in her mind..and would not back off....her mind ACHED......and her heart did as well...as she gritted her teeth..and tried not to shed tears>>

<< softly spoken>>....Blaze........goddess help me.....i failed her...

[Jacob Black]

« Cameron King found himself yet again in the same Limo with his assistant Vivica and his Immigrant driver, Carlos, who today seemed to be making through traffic at good speed. For a brief moment, Mr. King considered giving the Driver a raise, but the crazy thought quickly left his brain as he laughed inside. Where else was he going to get someone to work for less than minimum wage? He adjusted the silk black tie on his suit and and looked at himself. He didn't know the name of the brand he was wearing. His stylist picked it out for him, he couldn't care less what he wore. He would go into the meeting naked if he could. But alas, that wasn't an option. ;) Cameron looked at his iced out watch and made note of the time as they pulled of in front of Illustra. It was 8:48am. That was good. They weren't late. Cameron stepped out of the Limo as he held out his hand for Vivica. Chilvary wasn't dead completely. She winked at him as they entered the offices. Cameron took a deep breath and looked at Vivica. »

"Okay, I need you to go to the receptionist, tell her that Mr. King is here, and that I we have a meeting with Ms. Victoria at 9:00am. If she gets lippy, don't worry I will work my magic on her."

« Vivica nodded as she headed to the front desk. This gave him a chance to look around the main lobby which was covered with posters from other successful models and campaigns that Illustra had launched. Campaigns for Cover Girl, Louis Vitton, Prada. As he looked back over the receptionists' head he noticed a rather larged framed photo from a Cover Girl Campaign with Ex Model Morgan Victoria. This was the woman he would be meeting up with today.The Ball Buster. As soon as Cameron saw the picture he sensed something about the woman. She was different. All this thinking had left him to drift off as when he looked back Vivica was standing right in front of him, pulling him to the Elevator. »

"55th Floor! We have to hurry if we want to make it on time. That stupid receptionist twat had the gull to ask who you were!"

« As Cameron found his way to the elevator about to head into a meeting with Illustra, he couldn't help but take one final look at Morgan Victoria. Her picture was captivating. The doors closed in front of Cameron's eyes as he took a deep breath, preparing himself for the meeting. »

[Jill Monroe]

<< Morgan had not slept very well the night before. The storm seemed to be a symptom of something far worse looming on the horizon of NYC ...but in Morgan's mind...the pain of loss was so strong...it had taken a toll on her very being....as her heart was cold....and she was detatched from everything around her. Her wintery beauty was still very much in tact...but that personality that had made her so fierce and so feared...was now changed>>

<< as she sat in the large deep seated, leather, swivel chair at the end of the metallic conference room table and looked out over the skies through the seamless circular window of the suite....her eyes grew heavy....she was very tired....but it didnt show in her face...it was her MIND>>

<< as she sits tall..her legs crossed at the knee...and her chin resting on her hands that are positioned as a "bridge" , her eyes shut once..twice...and then stayed closed....for a few moments>>


meanwhile outside the suite in the hallway, Alison greets Cameron and Vivica. Alison is a tall woman herself , standing at 5"11' with black hair and cobalt blue eyes...a very striking appearence..much like that of Lynda Carter. She was cutting edge in a black pin stripped, single breasted tailored blazer and matching short skirt...bare legged wearing black leather donna karan pumps..and her hair was pulled back as well in a stylish bun do.

Alison: Welcome to Illustra Inc. , I'm Alison, Morgan Victoria's executive assistant and operations manager. If you would please follow me, I will show you to the executive suite.

<< Alison was definately in possession of herself...she held alot of power at Illustra and her competence showed as she lead the way...but curiously...her mind was completely CLOSED to cameron..and no amount of probing would gain him access. as the reached the doors of the suite....she opened them ad stepped in first to make sure Morgan was ready...>>

<< Morgan's eyes POPPED open as the doors open and she heard Alison's voice......she turned in the chair and fixed her icy voilet eyes upon Cameron and Vivica....with a cold, expresionless look...her beauty was evident but the warmth that was conveyed in the shots that Cameron saw on the first floor....was not there>>

<<standing up...Morgans height became apparent as she matched Cameron eye to eye and dwarfed Vivica. her body and its prestine physical shape were also apparent. Wearing a simple fitting, black cashmere sweater with a khaki pencil skirt with a hemline a few inches above the knee along with black knee high heeled boots and her blonde double highlighted hair was pulled back into a stylish, glossed bun..>>

<< in an icy voice>>
Welcome Mr. King, I'm Morgan Victoria, CEO of Illustra Inc. Please come in and be seated.

<< Alison had already summoned assistants who brought the finest freshly brewed coffee and some imported bottled water...along with an assortment of snacks and refreshments....they quickly left as Alison seated herself beside Morgan...while Vivica and Cameron took their place down at the other end. It was clear to Cameron and Vivica that these women were unusual...the fact that BOTH their minds were closed to him had to be quite apparent to him by now....as they looked upon him>>

Morgan:<<in an icy vioce>> now then...I understand you have a line of 4 star hotels that you have aquired and you wish to overhaul them in a major way and relaunch them complete with a media blitz.....how can Illustra assist you in this endeavor?

<< her tone was even..but cold. she seemed very blank >>

[Jacob Black]

« As Cameron andVivica (http://www.halloftheblackdragon.com/east/ldragon/2204.jpg) reached the correct floor, they were greeted immediately by Morgan's assistant Alison. As they began to walk through the hallway, red flags went up in Cameron's head that almost stopped him dead in his tracks. He had realized that from the moment he had met Alison, he hadn't picked up on a single thought of hers, which was not normal at all. Either Alison was completely brain dead, or there was something blocking him. He had never not been able to probe a mind before. He tried with more finesse and care this time but a considerable amount of power. In fact he was using so much of his power that in the center of his forehead a small green globe of energy began to appear. Vivica sensed it right away and snapped her head over to him as she smacked him in the chest and whispered to him. »

"What are you doing you idiot! Your getting all green and glowy! Knock it off!"

« But it simply wasn't that simple. It wasn't just interesting anymore, but it was irritating. He was Cameron King, the Prophet, there was no mind that he could not tame, and for some second rate secretary to be able to block him from that somewhat infuriated him. In a way that was good. He needed to be pumped up for the meeting. As he entered the room, he noticed that he had actually broken a sweat trying to probe Alison's mind. He casually grabbed a bottle of water and sat down on his end of the table with Vivica, as she began to bring out the notes. Listening to Morgan speak, he noticed that she too was cut off from his powers. What was wrong with these women? Maybe those rumors were true, or maybe his powers were just on the fritz. As Morgan finished in her even and cold tone, Cameron nodded his head and began. »

"Thank you for meeting with us Ms. Victoria. It is a pleasure. Now then, In a recent buyout I acquired the hotel chain known as the Parthenon. It was once a thriving chain in the 80's but was left in ruins by the past owner. Normally, I would not go into a real estate endeavour, but I see something in this chain that I cannot pass up. I have invested over 10 million dollars fixing these Luxury Hotels up in the most beneficial locations. New York, Paris, Milan and Tokyo. The reason that I have come to you, is that I wish to promote this chain launching a Media Campaing involving Television, Magazines and Billboards. I want this to be the hotspot to stop on Vacation and Business. The chain is known as the Parthenon from Ancient Greece. I would like sophisticated style but with enough young energy to draw in a crowd of all ages. It would help if I could put a face to the campaign. Someone leaded the campaign. Since these locations are in the hottest places of Fashion, I was thinking Models. A Team to go out and promote, remember the Angels Across America tour from Victoria's Secret? Something like that? What I need from you.. is a plan for success, the models and the space for advertising. I am open to any ideas that you may have. So tell me what you are thinking."

« It was at this point that Cameron would have usually read their minds and come up with a last minute idea involving the thought, but Morgan Victoria was inpenetrable, and it was starting to make Cameron wonder who this woman was, and if it was the woman that she wanted to do business with. He nodded to Vivica who began to pass out pictures of the hotels in the different locations, and detailed pages of the Parthenon's old earnings and wages. He was hoping that maybe Vivica would be able to pick up on something. Though her mutant ability was to recall everything she sees, hears, smells or senses, she had a second mutation that increased her senses to the extreme. Cameron wasn't crazy. Something was up with Alison and Morgan, he just didn't know what. »

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh sat comfortably in the back seat next to the Photographer as she waited for the crew to load their equipment into the company van parked behind her. She looked at her watch, it was already 9:15 am. The morning was passing quickly, to her gratitude. She had two folders, onefilled with updates and memorandems for the intelligence world, what the CIA and rival european intelligence agencies were up to, the latest moves and advances by both. Statistics and successes of her own various operations were also there. The second folder contained the information for her meeting today and Cassandra's notes on Illustra Incorporated, Tempo Magazine, and King Enterprises. Haleigh read up on all of them, she liked to be informed. Her natural inquisitive nature took over, as she made what appeared to be small talk with the photographer.

"so, Evanko, have you worked with Tempo and Illustra before?"

James:"I have worked with Tempo, mostly with the advertising department. I usually do stuff with Cover Girl, Maybeline, a lot of Fragrance shoots. I believe Illustra has supplied models for the clothing line shoots before. So, why am I not riding with the crew?"

"Well, I have been informed that this is a high-profile client, there is a lot of money in this partnership, several big names are attached, Tempo, Illustra, now King Enterprises. that's why I'm coming to oversee it myself. You arriving with me shows that we respect you as a photographer. If they see we respect you, they'll respect you. Are we ready to go yet?"

"The equipment is kept on the third floor.... there's a lot needed for this shoot... they're having to make several trips Miss Davidoff. I believe they are almost done. You know, I had no idea CEOs were so beautiful."

Haleigh looked up at him, with an unmistakable hit-on-me-again-and-ill-break-your-kneecaps glare on her face. She licked her lips and looked back down at her papers.

"I am the Co-Owner. Miss Alluisi is the Chief Executive Officer. I'm filling in for her as she is out of the country and delayed."

She didn't attack him, though she normally would shoot down men who were so forthright. He was attractive and she was always taken with artistic types. As long as he didn't prove himself an idiot, she might bed him before the day was over.

"Well, it's my lucky day then. Looks like the crew is finally ready."

[Jill Monroe]

<<Morgan sat and listened..while Alison recorded minutes>>

<< Morgan's mind wandered....away from the room and the conversation...but when Cameron passed down pictures of the Parthenon hotel chain...one of the locations was in Europe...in Paris>>

<< she immediately stopped sifting through the pictures as her violet eyes widened at the site of this particular hotel>>

<< it was the hotel that Valiant had stayed at the NIGHT of the battle with Black.....her mind immediately recounted the memories of how she used her clout and celebrity to secure the finest rooms for her team mates...and all the events that lead up to their fateful encounter with the Axis of Evil>>


<< she closes her eyes tightly and pushes back the memories and looks up>>


<<in an icy voice>>: I see. well clearly you have an eye for taste Mr. King and you seem to have marketing savvy. This chain was quite reputable in the 80's and while its sites in Europe still enjoy a measure of success...the American half definately has been in decline for quite some time.

the proposed overhaul and all the additions seem quite appropriate.

There is a theme right now...both in fashion and in high society circles...a "return to old holywood glamor". Social clubs are reasserting themselves as well and people want to return to the exlcusivity of being the "select few" that enjoy the finest hotels both here and over seas. With these luxe hotels...especially its flagship being here in NYC, i think perhaps a simple, yet elegant approach is necessary. Illustra has many options and resources that can assist in making the Parthenon synonymous with glamor and regality.

<< Morgan's eyes were beginning to water....she casually reached for a tissue and dabbed her eyes.....but the subtle oblivion of unconsciouness was creeping upon her....it was as though she was being PULLED into a dream ...but she continued to resist...the images of that hotel stayed in her mind....the memories were so strong...>>


curse him! how DARE he come before me with this!

<< she awaited his response>>

[Jacob Black]

« Cameron nodded and smile, relieved that Morgan was agreeing with his vision and that they were on the same page. She must have stayed at the Parthenon before, being a high fashion model. She was right. Most of the revamping had to be done in the New York Chain. That is where he had spent the most money to fix up and it would be the focus point of the moment. As he looked up, he saw Morgan dabbing her eye with a tissue. Was she upset. She actually looked as if she were about to fall asleep. Was his meeting that boring? He overlooked the pictures himself and responded. »

"So I was thinking. It is smarter to start in the New York Location, as it will need the most advertising. If we were to merge our list of clients together, we would have quite the list of the rich, famous and glamorous. What I was thinking is that we launch the campaing in New York, Banners on buses, billboards, and commercials. We host a grand opening party, inviting only the highest in society and power. Once they arrive we give them the star treatment, show them how great it was. After the party, I want the success of it to be taken overseas. I want names dropped as well as money dropped to ensure the public hears about the success of the opening. Then we can work our way into Europe and on to Tokyo. What do you think?"

« Cameron handed Vivica the papers that outlined the plans and such for the opening of the New York Location, who then gave them to Alison who in turn handed them to Morgan. For whatever reason, Cameron couldn't keep his eyes off of Morgan. Something was wrong with her, but unfortunately he couldn't tap into her mind to figure out why. Maybe he could hit her with a low voltage psi blast that would make her blurt out what she thinking. Even though he couldn't read her, maybe he could still manipulate her. He felt the invisible energy swirling in front of his forehead as the blast sent out and hit the CEO. He waited but nothing happened. He knew that Morgan had to have felt the blast, but she obviously wasn't affected by it. Ms. Victoria was waring on Cameron's nerves. He hoped that whatever she was thinking wouldn't cloud this business deal, because at the end of the day, he didn't care what the hell happened to Morgan, just as long as he got his money. »

[Jill Monroe]

<< as Cameron talked....Morgan became some what agitated....>>

someone....something is trying to intrude in my MIND!

<<thunder rumbled in the air...though it seemed to be a quiet morning.....and the room grew colder. Alison looked at Morgan...and turned to face Cameron and Vivica>>

<< Morgan stopped herself from showing any balatant reaction of agitation at what she felt was an attempt to violate her mind. she didnt know Cameron was a mutant..so she had no reason to suspect him>>

<<in an icy voice>>: Mr. King, Illustra does not advertise on buses or banners. we are a cutting edge fashion/media agency and we reach the highest end consumers with our imagery and prompt patronage of the finest stores and products. If we are to provide you with our services..then you will allow us to handle this advertising as we see fit.

<< Illustra's history spoke for itself. having pushed its competitors back into the background for the last 15 years...and with Morgan having associations/friendships with the likes of Madonna, Donatella, P. Diddy and Donald Trump as well as the the title of "most celebrated super model of the world" for many years before voluntarily giving up the title to help Valiant stop the Axis of Evil>>

<< Alison...who was in fact a "seer" , a powerful practicioner of magick who was far beyond the grasp of Cameron's telepathy. She had been hand picked by Morgan ages ago and therefor the PERFECT assistant to the sorceress. she begun her own "scan" of Cameron and Vivica....her power was strong enough to detect that they were NOT merely humans...>>

<< Morgan awaited his response>>

[Jacob Black]

« Cameron was growing more irritated by the moment. Obviously Morgan Victoria was not up to this meeting, and she really wasn't giving him anything to work with. He peered at Vivica who he knew was feeling exactly the same way he was as he let out a sigh and continued to speak. »

"I am fine with you handling it your way, but I need something to work with. What exactly did you have in mind for this Ms. Victoria? I came to you because I heard you are the best. I want the best for my company, and I have yet to see that.. I need something to work with here."

« Without further notice Vivica perked herself up as if she had been a little startled. Her keen senses could tell that something was being worked in the room and she didn't know what, but it made her uncomfortable. She had just gotten the chills. This meeting would definitely not end well. There was something underlying this meeting that had nothing to do with Hotels at all. Vivica tried to focus back on the project as she awaited Morgan's most likely cold response. To Vivica, that woman had been so cold when talked you could see her breath. Cameron on the other hand, was probing the woman, to see what she would give him. »

"I mean no offense what so ever Ms. Victoria, but if you're not up for this meeting, we can reschedule at any other time..."

« He took a drink from his water bottle and glanced back at his papers. What in the hell was going on with Morgan? And what had scared Vivica? This whole thing was getting to be very uncomfortable. »

[Jill Monroe]

<< Morgan knew exactly what she wanted to do...she knew exactly how best to bring the Parthenon back to the forefront of fashion and high society.....>>

<< as Cameron began to vocalize his impatience ..and Alison and Vivica both picked up on the subtle changes in the room courtesy of Morgan's growing agitation....things...just slowed down..........slowlllyyyyy becomingggggg quiettttttttttttttt...as ghostlyl echoes and eerie sounds of a bell could be heard >>

<< as Morgan blinked ..once..twice....she saw Cameron.....and heard>>

Cameron: I know your tired........and you want to go to sleep........I would if i were you......were it not for the fact that i have.....badddd....dreamsssss....

<< his voice so haunting and whispering>>

<< Morgan looked confused....as she turned ....Alison was gone....>>

ALISON!?

<< a voice>>: MORGANNN!

<< Morgan turned ...and there stood the bloodied , broken body of Foxfire>>

GASP!!!

<< Morgan jumped up from her seat>>

FOXFIRE!?

<< she looked around...Alison, Vivica and Cameron were gone...the room was dark...the skies were dark>>

Foxfire: Morgannnn....help meeeee!!

<< Morgan's icy violet eyes widened with disbelief...as she began to follow the body....down the hall. but as she came through the doors...the body was already all the way down the hall and going into an elevator!>>

NO!! WAIT!

<< Morgan ran...her high heeled boots click claking down the hall..as she got into the elevator...but there was nothing there but blood...and remants of her old costume..as the elevator SUDDENLY TORPEDOED down...down down down....until it SLAMMED to a stop..and the doors open as Morgan fell out into ...THE BIO SYSTEMS LAB of MysTech!>>

UGHH!!!

<< she slowly stood up...still in her outfit she had worn to the meeting..as she looked around....slowly. the lab was darkened..with haunting blue concealed lighting ...and random blinking from machines and fiber optics. the haunting hum of energy flowing throughout the lab...>>

<< the voice>> Morgannnnn!!

FOXFIRE???

<< the blood...on the floor....seemed to lead to the stasis chambers..she followed along...and made her way to the cryro tubes....where she found Foxfire....on the floor...slumped over and the sound of crying in the air>>

FOXFIRE! I'm here......I can help you..I...

<< she reached for Foxfire ...who suddenly turned to face her....and her eye sockets were empty...her eyes had been gouged out!!>>

Oh GODDESS!!!!

<< she put her hand over her mouth and staggered back>>

Foxfire: Black is ALIVE Morgan.....he's got me...and he's coming back for you......he will get you Morgan...and he'll kill you..just like he killed me!

Morgan: NO!! Black is DEAD!! I KILLED HIM!!

<< she turned around around...as she felt a presence behind her>>

Black: oh but i got BETTER you witch!....and now i got YOU!

<< he grabs her.....bringing for his SWORD of Anger....as he is about to stab her in stomach...she screamss>>

NOOO!! LET ME GO!

<< she panics..and unleashes a ballistic BLAST of eldritch force....at the same time...she violently reacts in her chair in the executive suite....screaming...as she jumps out of her seat....flailing her arms as thunder BOOMS in the suite...and an eldritch chime sounds off..still in the dream..not quiet awake>>

Alison: MORGAN!!! << she quickly turns and gestures...FREEZING Cameron and Vivica with temporal stasis as she quickly gets up and grabs hold of Morgan trying to calm her>>

MORGAN!! WAKE UP!! WAKE UP!! YORU DREAMING!!

<< Morgan FINALLY snaps awake!>>

NO!!! GET AWAY!!!

<< Alison holdsd her>>

SHHH!!! Morgan its alright..it was just another nightmare.....you're okay!

Morgan: No Alison..its not just a nightmare...its ...something ELSE....I FELT her..i FELT my sister..and Black! when he touched me..i felt the SAME PAIN as i did a year ago..when he FIRST attacked me in Europe!...but..he CANT be alive.....I..KILLED HIM!

<< she looked over at the frozen Cameron and Vivica>>

I cant deal with them. I have to get out of here!

<< she pulls away from Alison and rushes out of the room. Alison ...confident that she froze them BEFORE they saw what happened....composes herself..and tidys up the area on her end of the table before sitting down..and releasing them from temporal stasis>>

Alison: Mr. King, as you and Miss Victoria discussed...you will resume specifications for your fashion/media campaign for Parthenon tommorow. I have you all set up for an 11 o clock appointment and have already called your Limo around. We thank you for choosing Illustra for your needs and Miss Victoria is looking forward to seeing you again!

<< Alison quickly summons two escorts to bring Cameron and Vivica down the main floor as she herself quickly leaves to find Morgan. Unknown to Alison..though she had frozen them...Cameron's mind's eye was able to witness the entire scene.....he now knew that Morgan and Alison were NOT ordinary women by any means.....but how would he tell Vivica what he "saw"? as Alison left...cameron was left to process what had just occurred>>

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh closed her folders and put them away, stopping to groom herself in her compact. She looked at her classy Kenneth Cole watch, nearly an hour had passed since they'd begun driving, it was already 10:15. They were finally pulling up to the curb outside Illustra. She undid another button to her black button-down, exposing just a tad of cleavage, and leaned forward to speak in her driver's ear.

"About Fucking Time."

She said coldly, with a distinct pronunciation on each syllable. The ride wasn't so bad really, but Haleigh was never in any mood to mosy about, she was sorely impatient. She stepped out of the vehicle, as the Liquid Crystal Images equipment van pulled up behind her.

"Come, James."

She said briskly as she looked around, sizing the surrounding up. Everyone was acting like it was cold, all bundled up. Haleigh wore a floor-length jacket, but it was open, where people scurying by looked like eskimos.

These ingrates don't know cold.... if they want cold, they should be power sprayed with icy water and then lay on the stone floor in a drafty warehouse in the middle of Russian tundra wearing nothing but a thin t-shirt and military (http://69.42.87.196/cgi-bin/v40/ezlclk.fcgi?id=7106) issued cargo pants.

Hell, it was only in the thirties here.... but Haleigh wasn't bitter about being held captive. The photographer walked on her left, as they entered the building in front of them. The way she strut into the lobby, you might think SHE was the model that owned the company. Haleigh never lacked in confidence. She spoke to the receptionist herself, as her eyes fell upon the same large picture (http://69.42.87.196/cgi-bin/v40/ezlclk.fcgi?id=6989) of Morgan Victoria that Cameron King had looked at earlier that morning.

"I'm Haleigh Davidoff, with Liquid Crystal Images. Miss Victoria is expecting me."

The receptionist looked up the name, then rattled off the floor that Morgan was on and the one where the shoot would be held. she called someone over to escort Haleigh and james to their floor, as Haleigh seemed fixated on the picture behind the desk. but it wasn't because she felt something from the woman, as Cameron had... Haleigh was dead sure she'd seen that woman before. Somewhere.... and since Haleigh normally worked only in CI, she became suddenly aware that the fact that Haleigh recognize her from somewhere was very dangerous. She snapped back to reality, holding up her hand to deter the young man who had just ask them to follow him.

"I don't need an escort, thank you. I can press the button in the elevator myself, I'm a big girl. Please go instruct my crew on where they are supposed to set up the equipment. Let Miss Victoria know that I am here and I'm on my way up."

She said firmly, walking past the man and pulling out her mobile phone as she made her way to the elevaters, her coat billowing behind her as she strutted, leaving the young man stunned.

"Jennifer? Run a background check on the name Morgan Victoria. I want to know everything about her and everyone she ever associated with. I want to know more than the government knows about her. I've seen this woman before, and I want to know more. Hey, just a hunch, but cross reference (http://69.42.87.196/cgi-bin/v40/ezlclk.fcgi?id=7103) with Valiant. Get me some pictures. Thank you."

She stepped into the opening elevater with James hurrying to catch up. He made a comment about how she just turned on the afterburners, and she just gave her usual smirk, with her back to him as she pressed the highest button.

[Jill Monroe]

<< Morgan was now in one of executive wash rooms of Illustra...still on the highest floors of the sky scraper>>

<< this was hardly your average "restroom"...it was more like a cutting edge parlour room with all sorts of amenities....>>

<< there was an eerie silence in the dimly lit parlour room that was illuminated by concealed soft pink lighting...with elegant foliage that "sprayed" from art deco floor pots to soften the edge of the decorum>>

<< Morgan splashed mildly warm water on her wintery face...as she exhaled....trying to allow the haunting images and the feelings she got from her nightmare to flow out of her. it only worked slightly>>

<< as she stood over the marble face bowl.....she looked at herself in the crystaline mirrors....she was nothing like she used to be...merely a shell of the woman she was...and now on "auto pilot". The tremendous feelings of guilt, despair and questions that raged in her mind were taking their toll..and for all her power...she could not find a way to alleviate her own suffering.>>

....what am i going to do!? << her icy soft voice echoed throughout the silent chamber>>

I cant keep going on like this......Illustra will suffer....and I cant allow this to ruin me..

<< she put her hands to her face and massaged her temples>>

Black is DEAD...i killed him. He killed Foxfire...there is no way she could be alive... not after what he did to her.

I NEVER shouldve joined Valiant....i NEVER shouldve allowed myself to think that i could use my magick to help those who couldnt help themselves. i was BETTER OFF when i was "The Most Celebrated Super Model" in the world.

<< and yet...that never really mattered to her either..the fact that fashion and style came to her naturally made it EASY for her to delve in the fashion industry...and that in turn helped her to push aside the memories of her FATHER who had betrayed her and tried to hurt her....she and her mother stood together and humilated him and drove him away...but she never forgot..never forgave!>>

<< she walked over to one of the large sofa's....and sat down...bent over slightly as she placed her face down in her cupped hands....>>

I've GOT to get myself together before that muckraking wench Alexis gets here...if she see's this..she'll have a field day with suggesting im a washed up "has been" or "strung out on drugs".

<< the door slowly opened...and Morgan bolted up right...and stood up...taking aim...ready to release an eldritch bolt>>

Alison: easy Morgan!! its just me!... << she came closer..slowly as Morgan relaxed>> are you okay honey?? i've never seen you react so violently to one of your nightmares.....

<< as they both sat down...Alison looked over at the tired Morgan>>
I've taken care of Cameron and Vivica...they saw nothing...they know nothing...and they will be back tommorow! Haliegh as arrived early.....she's setting up on the 50th floor in one of the crystal media rooms...if you like i can send her away.....

Morgan: no...its okay Alison. I cant break .....i cant let this crap ruin me...or Illustra. << she looked over at Alison>>....Alison....the nightmares..they arent just dreams...i can see..and FEEL everything in these dreams....its almost like...they are warning me....telling me that not only is Foxfire still alive..but SO IS BLACK!

<< the lights in the parlour room flickered....as did they flicker and fluxuate all through the building....and around the city....something was amiss as the skies seemed to grow slightly grey>>

Alison:...Morgan......something is wrong. I can sense it. Your nightmares....the storms....and this fluxuating power...somehow its all connecting. i cant exactly say how..but it is. I can sense it....and i am a seer....its only a matter of time before i can figure it out....but in the mean time.....watch yourself. DONT go out in public unless you have to...and please stay in contact with me at all times. I know you've got power...and lots of it...but youve been under such strain lately...i just dont want anything to ..happen to you.

<< Morgan's icy violet eyes locked with Alison's cobalt blue eyes...Alison was more than a mere executive assistant and operations manager..she had become Morgan's trusted confidant both in this business and in the world of the occult. She had been introduced to her by Karen...at a dinner party years ago...and when she returned to Illustra following Valiant....it only made sense to hire her on in a position where she could best help Morgan get through this time>>

Morgan: Alison.........i've NEVER been at such a point of recession in my life.....and i DONT LIKE how i feel...weak and ravaged..this ISNT me!.....but having you here....being able to be at my best or worst in front of you and not worry what you think....it means alot to me. Your valuable to me MORE than for what you do for Illustra....thank you..for everything.

<< the women hug each other...>>

Alison: Thank YOU Morgan....your mother helped me out so much when i learned that i was a Seer and sorceress...and when she introduced me to you....it was the best thing that ever happened to me. Whatever is looming on the horizon....we will get through it together....i got your back..i promise.

<< as they hugged...the power flickered once more....and there was an eerie growling sound....almost as though something was displeased...but they assumed it was merely the plumbing system of the building reacting to the fluxing power>>

Morgan: << as she pulled back from Alison..and wiped tears from her face>> well...how do i look?? << she got up and primped in the mirror..checking her face, hair and eyes...and adjusting her outfit>>

Alison: <<smiling>> girl your fabulous. your still the personification of "Icy Elegance" now lets get down to the 50th floor and wow this bitch Alexis...she's lucky Illustra would even allow her on the premesis...considering who HER father is.

<< Alison was referring to Alexis Chandler-Quatermaine, the daughter of the infamous Cardiac surgeon Adam Chandler...who was involved in a grotesque scandal involving the murder of a woman and theft of her child for illegal stem cell research....>>

<< Morgan and Alison do a quick hair check..and both turn on their heels with style and poise as they walk out of the parlour room together...and as the doors shut........a shadowy figure flows in the crystaline mirrors......flowing out of the parlour room shortly after them>>

<<Morgan and Alison make their way to the private express elevator and jet down to the 50th floor.....making their way to one of the crystal media rooms...where Haleigh Davidoff is setting up>>

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh is forced to grab the railing of the express elevator as it shudders and stops. The lights dim, flicker, and then go out for a few seconds before coming back on. The elevator makes a few groaning noises before it hums back into service and Haleigh stands back up straight, her eyes locking with the photographers. Her expression is not one of shock or alarm, however, but one of inquisitive nature.

"Can you explain why a multi-billion dollar enterprise is experiencing electrical issues?"

James:"Yeah, kind of strange...."

"No. Not strange. Wrong."

She says matter-of-factly, as she loks up and watches the numbers on the elevater change as they ascended to the fiftieth floor. Her feeling of impending doom had only gotten worse all day. It was becoming irritating, actually. She stepped out of the elevator and went straight for the media room wher ethey would meet Miss Victoria. Maybe seeing the woman in person would help jog her memory. She sets her briefcase down and pulls out the folder on the shoot, as Morgan walks in behind her and the photographer gives a loud gasp.

James:"MORGAN VICTORIA!"

He walks over the her and takes her hand, kissing the back of it and bowing his head respectfully. "I'm honored. James Evanko at your service. Please tell me I will be photographing YOU today."

Haleigh turns around, hiding the irritation for his lavish response as she buttons the bottom of her pinstriped blazer and walks over herself.

"James, I do believe the crew could use your help unloading the equipment."

She says, rather coldly. If he didnt get a grip on reality she'd likely murder him once they left the building. Her eyes are locked on Morgan, trying to search her face for familiarity... she was still waiting on her assistant's information. She introduced herself without offer to shake hands. She didnt shake hands. ever.

"Miss Victoria.... I'm Haleigh Davidoff. You were probably expecting my colleague, Miss Alluisi. She's out of the country and has been delayed. I'll be taking over for her. I feel like I know you. Have we met before?"

James:"Of course you know her... this is Morgan Victoria.... quite possibly the most celebrated model ever."

Haleigh turns her head slowly to look at James. The look she gave him would likely kill if anyone knew looks could... but Haleigh saved those murdering looks for when there were no witnesses. James got the idea, and left quickly, as Haleigh turned her attention back to Morgan. She remembered Cassandra's advice, and offered the women a fake smile that was more chilling than anything. Haleigh emanated the feeling that she could look right through your eyes into your soul. Even though she was looking slightly up at Morgan... she was very intimidating to most people.

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Pushing her chair away from her desk, Alexis stood, immediately smoothing her white skirt out. Picking up her purse and brief case, Alexis huffed dreading this interview. Walking around her desk and out her office door, Tracy immediately followed suite. ::

Tracy - "The car is already downstairs Miss Quartermaine."

:: Waving her hand in a "I could care less" manor, she shrugged off Tracy and made her way to the elevator. She hated this woman -- her work ethic was pathetic. But after the last 5 assistants quit, this was the only woman who actually has stayed for longer than a month. ::

:: Stepping into the elevator, Tracy followed quickly behind her. Placing both her purse and brief case down, she pressed the "Lobby" button and leaned back. ::

Tracy - "You're ex-husband called about 15 minutes ago Miss.."

:: Alexis nonchalantly cut Tracy off. ::

"Which one?"

:: Stumbling, Tracy grabbed her work book and flipped through it. ::

Tracy - "Uhm...Mr. Jax, ma'am."

:: Letting a small chuckle escape her lips, she shook her head softly. Her golden locks tumbled down her firm chest as her head moved gently from side to side. ::

"Ahh...and what did the king of self-importance want today? More money...?"

:: Tracy of course not allowing a laugh to pass her lips nodded to Alexis. ::

Tracy - "Yes...he wanted you to give him money. He said that you owe him for his hospital visit....something about a vase and his head?"

:: Laughing, Alexis picked up her purse and brief case as the elevator door opened. Walking out, she headed for the revolving glass doors seeing her limo parked outside.::

"Ahh yes...tell him to piss off and take it up with my lawyers."

:: Climbing into the limo, Tracy followed suite. As the chauffer closed the limo door, Alexis sat back and glanced out the tinted window. Something about these past couple of days hadn't sat well with Alexis....the wind blew oh so coldly this summers afternoon. Watching the clouds roll by, she fell into a deep trance. ::

- - -

:: Finally the limo arrived at Illustra Inc. The quick jolt of the limo stopping shook Alexis out of her day dream. Parting her lips, she picked up her purse and opened it grabbing her compact and pink shimmer lip gloss. Applying it perfectly to her pouty lips, Tracy climbed out of the limo grabbing Alexis' brief case for her. Closing her compact and throwing both it and the lip gloss into her purse, she zipped it shut and climbed out of the limo. ::

"Lets get this over with."

:: Placing her purse on her shoulder, she made her way into Illustra's lobby. Walking up to the busy receptionist on the phone, she tapped her finely manicured nail on the table. ::

"Excuse me. Hi. Yes, I have an meeting with Morgan Victoria. So please, do your job and get me up there. Thanks a bunch."

:: Waiting a few moments as the receptionist did her job, Alexis finally was escorted to the elevator. Walking in, she pushed the button and awaited until it made it's way up to their destination. ::

[Jacob Black]

« Cameron was utterly and completely shocked. It was as if he was frozen in time. He couldn't move and he couldn't see, buth is mind's eye allowed him an almost arial view of the entire incident. The rumors were true. Morgan Victoria was the infamous Spellbinder. She was a witch. It made sense now. Why he couldn't read her or Alison, who was obviously a practicioner of magick as well. He saw the pain and anguish on Morgan's face as she seemed to be terrified by something going on in her mind. Cameron only wished he could venture in and see what was taunting her. This was a very different Morgan Victoria. He had seen pictures of Spellbinder. She was fast, furious, vicious and strong. This woman seemed to be a shell of what she once was. Before he could think anything else, he was unfrozen and told that he would be meeting with her tomorrow. As they were ushered quickly out of the building by Alison and into the elevator, Cameron couldn't even begin to put into words what he had just seen, or how to tell Vivica, but he did his best to try and make her understand. He turned to her as she pressed the Elevator button, completely dumbfounded. »

Cameron: Ok, please tell me that I am not the only who thought that extremely weird. I mean the entire meeting was just nuts.

Vivica: Something was definitely going on there Cameron. You know me.. I don't forget anything.. and unless I somehow lost my powers, I am missing the last few moments of that meeting. I looked at the clock and then suddenly it was a few minutes later. Could you detect anything?

Cameron: Well.. actually I saw something. You know those rumors about Morgan that she was a part of the Mutant Team Valiant, under the name Spellbinder? Well, I think we were like frozen. Alison did something to us, we couldn't move or anything, but I could see what was happening with my powers. Morgan went into some kind of nightmare type of thing. She had power. She is Spellbinder! The Witch!

« Vivica eyed Cameron, and began to go through the fortress that was her mind. She retained everything she knew. It could be the perfect weapon against Cameron or his savior. Suddenly, she dawned on something, and her eyes widened. »

Vivica: Oh, Cameron, you're absolutely right! Right before I lost time, I sensed something extremely weird going on and it was coming from Alison! She was doing something.. I felt like I was being prodded by her, and then I lost time.. I think we just broke through Morgan Victoria's secret identity.

« In his own mind, he went over the events again. If Morgan was indeed Spellbinder, he had wondered why she had left, and even more so, how he would handle her. Certainly, Alison would have had to figure out that both Vivica and Cameron were mutants. Would she consider them friend or foe, and in Morgan's current state, would she think that they were sent to destroy her? This whole media campaign was becoming something completely different, but tomorrow there were going to be no games. He was a business associate, and he didn't like being frozen and manipulated. He would go in tomorrow and tell Morgan just what he had seen, but for now. He needed a drink. He looked at Vivica and winked. »

"Come on, I will buy you a drink, and I will show you what happened so you don't forget..."

« So off Cameron and Vivica went to the Rainbow Room for a drink. Cameron would be able to show Vivica what had happened by channeling what he had seen into a premonition and channeling it through Vivica's body, because he knew that Vivica had to see things to believe them, and boy she would see this. »

[Jill Monroe]

<< looking down at the young man and smiling at him as she nodded, Morgan understand that he was very excited to see her in the flesh and it had been a long time since she had been anywhere to be "recognized". it reminded her of the whirlwind that her life used to be. she was snapped out of her light day dream by the sound of Haleigh's voice.. Morgan recieved Haleigh with grace...though she was a bit cold....even to the touch>>

<< in an icy voice>>: welcome to Illustra Ms. Davidoff. <<shaking her hand>> This is my executive assitant and ops manager, Alison. << Alison, who was standing by Morgan's side nodded to Haleigh>>. Liquid Crystal Images is the most reputable and cutting edge photography studio on the east coast....and Illustra ONLY deals with the best...so I am pleased to have you hear.

I trust that you were greeted courteously upon arrival and that this media room will allow you and your stuff sufficient room to work?

<< she paused when she heard Haleigh's question about possibly knowing her from somewhere>>

<< Alison was listening intently as well>>

<<in an icy voice>>: When Illustra was owned and operated by my predecessor, they worked various photography studios...I do not recall ever having had a shoot presided over by Liquid Crystal and last year..i spent the majority of the year in Europe...<<pausing before she revealed too much>> on sabbatical from modeling.....

<< she stood slightly posed as she looked upon Haleigh who seemed to have such a "fresh faced" vitality about her.....Morgan's own countenance was very composed..yet very cold.>>

Alexis Chandler-Quatermaine, of Tempo Magazine has not yet arrived....but she will be interviewing me while you preside over the photo shoot. We can then go over which images to use for the cover and the spread for the interview.

<< looking out of the large picture window of the media room..Morgan shifted on her legs a bit..>>

I must touch up quickly before we begin...if you need anything Alison will provide you with assistance. I shall return shortly.

<< Morgan nodded and smiled.....turning on her high heeled boot as she left the media room and went down the hall to private parlour to touch up for the interview and shoot>>

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Finally reaching the 50th floor, the large elevator doors slowly opened revealing Alexis Quartermaine. Running her fingers through her blonde tresses, she fixed her hair, and checked her makeup in the well polished golden walls of the elevator. Finally stepping out of the elevator, Alexis made her way down the corridor towards the receptionist with Tracy quickly following behind her. ::

"Alexis Quartermaine here to see Morgan Victoria."

:: The receptionist nodded telling Alexis to wait. Crossing her arms, she turned around and leaned her back against the receptionist table. Tapping her toe of her prada shoes on the floor, she quickly grew impatient. Grunting, she turned to Tracy and spoke with a very annoyed tone. ::

"You figure with all the money and publicity the damn company gets, they would have only the BEST employees."

:: Turning to the receptionist, she looked at Alexis stunned. Fumbling around, she continued to try to find Alison to tell her that Alexis was here. Rolling her eyes, she shook her head turning back around. ::

[Jill Monroe]

<< a cold breeze flows over Alexis as Morgan is now behind her>

<< in an icy voice>>: well....isnt this a surprise...Alexis...here for an interview...EARLY for once. Youll pardon my receptionist if she wasnt prepared for anyone from Tempo magazine to arrive on time...as they never have in the past.

<< the leggy super model turned CEO stood tall..looking down at Alexis...with her arms folded...and a faint smile on her face>>

so glad you remembered where the place was Alexis. Now...ill show you to the media room...

<< she turns and gestures for Alexis to follow them.>>

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Hearing the whiney voice of Morgan Victoria, Alexis turned smirking. Looking into her icy violet eyes, Alexis raised a brow at her remarks about how Tempo employees are always late. Gritting her teeth, Alexis has worked with Morgan numerous times before this. Pluse, with reputations like both Morgan and herself, everyone knows of them in some shape or form. Tilting her head slightly to the side, a soft chuckle escaped her lips responding to Morgan's cattyness. ::

"Why Morgan, have you done something different with your makeup? You look a little less savage than usual...or did you get up on the right side of the coffin today?"

:: Her eyes narrowed as her glare burned a whole right through Morgan. Yes, this woman was important, as was Alexis. But she wouldn't even allow Mother Terese herself speak to Alexis that way. Placing her purse on her shoulder, Alexis pushed by Morgan heading towards the Media room. ::

"I believe I remember where it is, thank you."

:: Pressing her lips together, she clentched her fists extremely peeved. Turning a corner, she made her way into the media room seeing Alison, her snotty assistant and two photographers. Smirking at Alison, they've meet one too many times, and both despised each other. Turning to the photographers, Alexis nodded to both. ::

[Jill Monroe]

<< the staff on the 50th floor watched with subtle glee as Morgan engaged in casual catty converstion with Alexis....both women regarding each other with such disdain..it was felt in the air>>

well thats good. im glad to see that when you train a rat to run through a maze..SHE remembers the route even after she's let loose. makes it easier for me then. my escorts << she points to two large, well toned black men in black suits with sun glassses...>>will follow you....we like to keep an eye on riff raff when they enter the premesis..lest they try to steal their way to class. you should know about that right dear?

<< Morgan laughed haughtily as she tromped off with her model bounce ...disappearing down the hall and into a private parlour room to touch up for the interview>>


<< as Alison rolled her eyes and looked at Alexis....she turned to Haleigh>>

Alison: the trash quotient in the room just went up by 10 points...she's lucky anyone would even WORK with her...she's like the "patty hearst" of the fashion world...considering who her father is.

<< Alison smirked and walked by Alexis....>> HMPH!

<< making sure all was running smoothing, Alison stood by the window...scanning the room....>>

<< Alexis and Haleigh had yet to introduce themselves>>

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh nodded, listening and acknowledging Alison as Morgan introduced her. She paid special attention to Morgan's response to her recognition... and she was aware of the distinct pauses in her response. Haleigh knew she was being stonewalled.... and it only peaked her curiosity further. She had her senses about her, however, and she didn't further call the CEO out. She maintained a professional smile and pleasantry.

"Thank you, it is indeed a pleasure for me as well. Oh, you are quite accomodating. I'm sure the room will be fine, Evanko didn't seem to have a problem with it." She nodded again. "Please, take all the time you need. My crew has a lot of equipment to set up here."

Haleigh had stopped her efforts of smiling, and now was just back to her basic sinister smirk. she watched Morgan go, her facial expression blank. She licked her lips softly as she locked eyes with Alison, who remained to make sure she had everything she needed.

Haleigh watched Alison with amusement as she talked, not commenting. she wasn't one to burn her bridges before she built them. All the women suddenly seemed to have their claws out, as Alexis entered and engaged in an exchange of catty remarks with Alison. Haleigh was still devising opinions about both the Illustra women. She gave the same chilling smile to Alexis as she introduced herself.

"Haleigh Davidoff, Liquid Crystal Images Inc. Pleased to meet you. I say, are BOTH of those gentlemen with you?"

Haleigh asked in a playful tone, about to strike up conversation when the slow, hypnotic tune "Moonlight Sonata" by Beethoven filled the air. Haleigh reached into her coat pocket and glanced at the id on her cellphone. Jennifer.

"Mmm... I need to take this call. Is there a room with more privacy you can allow me access to?"

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Laughing as she heard Morgan's comments from a distance, they slowly faded once she entered the office Noticing two very large black men escorting her into the room she was extremely insulted and glared at them both. ::

"Touch me, and you won't be having any babies in the future. Understand?"

:: Growling, she turned to see Alison. Alexis immediatly rolled her eyes as she parted her lips. Oh the party was about to begin. ::

"Oh....Is this how you act around clients? All this shreiking and hissing and spitting....no wonder you work for Morgan. You compliment her well."

:: Lifting a brow she couldn't stand Alison. Her better then thou attitude was horrifying and quite annoying. Placing her purse down on a chair she was near, she crossed her arms and shifted her weight to one side, standing in a leaning position. Hearing the comment about her father, Alexis took a deep breath in extremely pissed off. ::

"There's this on going trend about bring my father up. I don't understand it....might I explain one thing to you. I won't go too fast...i'm sure you'll be able to keep up."

:: Glaring at the petite woman, she placed a slender finger in the air. ::

"Adam wasn't my real father. Alan Quartermaine was. I didn't ask to be a part of the Chander family, I was forced to be. So before you continue to run your mouth with more daddy insults, i'd get my storys straight. Either that, or i'll just push you out that window so I don't have to hear them again. Kay?"


:: Keeping her eye contact with Alison, even though she was turned around, she took a deep breath in and finally broke her stare and glanced towards Haleigh. Nodding to her, she allowed all the negative energy Alison pushed onto her away. ::

"Ignore Alison, everybody else does. I'm Alexis Quartermaine."

:: Seeing Haleigh pick up her phone, she politly stopped talking. Even though the woman was a spitfire, she did have some manners. Letting out a soft sigh, she turned to Tracy whispering. ::

"Call the driver, I have a feeling we'll be out of here prettty soon."

[Jill Monroe]

<< Alison scoffed as she stood posed...standing at 5"11 she was just an inch taller than Alexis...her cobalt blue eyes glaring straight into Alexis' eyes>>

<< she waved her right hand...holding her blackberry in the other>>

save your blustering for the interview you tabloid twit. you're about as reputable as Monica Lewinsky right about now..<< she stopped herself from saying too much...being that she was a Seer...she knew more than Alexis would dare to imagine........as she waved dismissively toward Alexis and turned to Haleigh>>

yes, Ms. Davidoff...if you step out of the media room...to your left there is a small door that leads to a private cell. you can go there if you like. if you need anything..just press the call button on the wall.

<< she turned once more...assessing the situation as the photography crew was setting up>>

Kitten chow...i mean Quatermaine..........the spot for the interview is over there!....

<< pointing to a beautifully designed set...which has a look of rich warm victorian elegance...with rich antique french darkwood furnishings...a large potted plant...with beautiful velvet drapes swirled around curtain rods...it was a very intimate setting...appropriate for what SHOULDVE been an intimate portrait of Morgan Victoria>>

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Raising a brow at Alison, she noticed the woman hesitate during her catty insults...which was rather unusual. Normally the two would go toe to toe without backing down. This made Alexis a little uneasy, but she brushed it off raising her chin a little higher and rolling her eyes to Alison. Looking towards the set, she chuckled as she began to walk towards it. ::

"You fit this room perfectly Alison. The furniture's tacky and so is your dress...wherever did you find that outfit? The Thrift Store?"

:: Turning her head towards Alison, she blew a kiss to her oh so mockingly and sat down on her designated chair. :;

"Tracy, get over here. I want you to write everything you hear out of Morgan's mouth. Keep up with the interview understood?"

:: Sitting back, she crossed her legs and glanced out the window awaiting Morgan to show up. ::

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh flipped open the cell and pressed it against her shoulder, finally silencing the tune. She thanked Alison and excused herself, pressing by some of the photography (http://69.42.87.196/cgi-bin/v40/ezlclk.fcgi?id=6920) crew, who looked as though they had the last bits to set up with. she let herself into the room Alison has described and shut the door, scanning around for cameras.

"Jen, I'm in room 5017."

She sa (http://69.42.87.196/cgi-bin/v40/ezlclk.fcgi?id=6787)id, shutting the phone and pulling a pen from her coat's inner breast pocket. She clicked the pen as if to extend the ink tip, then set it on the desk in front of her. It was a bug killer, actually. It provided a static blanket to cover the conversation she was going to have, safegaurding against listening devices.

Jennifer appeared with a soft POP sound and a smirk on her face. Haleigh leaned against the desk with her arms folded across her chest, her eyebrows raised in question. Jen handed her a large envelope and a file ten pages thick.

Jen:"Oh, you are not going to BELIEVE what i dug up. I deserve a raise."

Haleigh took the envelope first. She opened it, looking at the pictures inside. A smile parted her lips.... a smile of pure evil.

Jen:"Are you ready for this? SPELLBINDER. that's right. wait... it gets better. Morgan is the daughter of KAREN Victoria, under our protection program. A big Client. wonder who she's hiding from? Her husband and Morgan's father, Christopher. he's not only affiliated with Mystech.... what only a select few know is that he's also affiliated with the Citadel. More is in the file, including intel on his work on some kind of bio weaponry work.... and the T.O. virus.... which is still in preliminary testing.... about to begin human testing. Very blackmarket stuff. something tells me Miss victoria doesn't want that info floating about."

"Yeah.... well, I'm quite interested in her work with Valiant. Spellbinder.... very formidable..... from what i hear."

Haleigh thumbed through the photos, then began poring over the file Jen had composed.

"Jennifer.... I think you're right about that raise....."

[Jill Monroe]

<<Cameron and Vivica were exiting the building JUST as Haleigh had arrived. There was no reason why Haliegh wouldve noticed them or vice versa. Cameron was still reeling from what he "saw" in the circular suite...and Vivica..with her own incredible sense of perception had helped confirm their suspicions that Alison had frozen them in temporal stasis and that Morgan was more than a mere super model turned business woman>>

<< Cameron, being the greedy individual that he was, had already entertained the idea of using what he "saw" as some kind of unfair advantage when meeing with Morgan tommorow.....but he was so wrapped up in closing the deal with Illustra in order to began showcasing the "NEW" Parthenon...that he didnt realize that Morgan was a woman not to be trifled with or provoked....her past dealings with men like her father, and various male team members on Valiant prooved a painful indicator of just how VIOLENT she would become if it seemed that a man had the drop on her....it could turn out to be a painful, humbling lesson for Cameron.....but that remains to be seen>>

<< as he and Vivica leave Illustra they notice that it has gotten darker outside...a grey overcast hue has settled in the skies...and all around them....there seems to be a feeling of "on edge"...as the strange flickering /fluxuation of the city's power finally has stabilized...>>

<<Cameron couldnt help but remember the raw EMOTION he felt from Morgan..and though her mind was closed..it was clear that she was struggling with something terrible. He was about to learn that there was far more to this world than affluence and avarice....and like it or not..he would be FORCED to face the OTHER SIDE of that greed...those who SUFFER in order to provide the platform on which he...and evil conglomerates like MysTech spring off of>>

--------------------------------------------
<< Meanwhile...back inside Illustra...as the claws came out in the media room and Alison and Alexis "exchanged pleasantries...much to the amusement of the photography crew....Haleigh had slipped off into a private cell on that floor....and just received shocking revelations regarding Morgan Victoria.....she was now reading through the information...and it became clear that Morgan was a powerful sorceress, capable of extreme mystical might...her mother was a witch too. As Haleigh read the file...a tragic pattern emerged...that of MysTech blighting Morgan's path from the time she was 18 until last year...when Black...the juggernaut "hit man" of MysTech terrorized and brutalized the sorceress and then killed her half sister, Foxfire. Reports show that Spellbinder destroyed several city blocks in her desperate attempt to protect herself and her sister from this creature who was amazing immune to magickal attacks. Valiant was nearly decimated....and Spellbinder NARROWLY destroyed Black....but neither his, nor Foxfire's body were recovered...and Spellbinder recovered in MysTech General Hospital. Shortly after that...she left Valiant and returned to New York...where she dropped off the social radar. It was only recently that she resurfaced as the CEO of the company she had once been the "signature super model" for. Several pictures of Spellbinder in action were included in the file. The woman looked for all the world like some terrifying bird of prey....with images of her flying, weilding powerful magick, physically pummeling guards of MysTech...and finally..pictures of her fighting for her life against Black.>>

<< this was a shocking windfall of information...and yet..it raised a whole new series of questions for Haleigh...most specifically about Foxfire, and why Spellbinder had gone MIA for so long........>>

<< even as Haleigh learned more about her hostess at Illustra, the weather outside began to grow inclement..as winds rose....and howled with annoyance....the power once again began to flux......almost as if something were draining it from the city..and diverting it>>

[Jill Monroe]

<< Morgan walked down the hall...and heard the eerie sound of "power draining" as the lights fluxed and grew dim.......she felt like SHE was being watched....but she didnt sense anything with her magickal detection...and shrugged it off...>>

<< making her way back to the crystal media room.....she noticed Alison and Alexis....clearly and balatantly despising each other...she rolled her eyes..for she too found Alexis to be an annoying , antagonistic creature>>

<< the photography crew smiled with delight as their photo subject appeared....stylishly attired and looking very fresh with wintery elegance. she walked by and smiled and winked at them...as she made her way to the set....seating herself on the beautiful antique french dark wood sofa with rich warm colored upholstery...sitting very prim..with one leg crossed over the other at the knee....her pencil skirt rides up just enough to provide a playfull view of her celebrated flawless legs that are supposrted in the black leather knee high, high heeled boots.>>

<< she cast a lofty look on Alexis....with her icy violet eyes....>>

this arrogant wench........she acts like a tabloid journalist more than the owner of a "respectable" fashion magazine..and for all the muckracking she does... she dares to act as though she's IMPORTANT? she's nothing more than a glossed version of Patty Hearst...

<< in an icy voice>>: well alexis..if you can remember how this works...as soon as Haleigh returns...we will be able to begin. I do hope you took your st. john's wart ...you know how hard it is for you to concentrate on any one task at a time.

<< Morgan sat pretty and posed...chuckling with a smug tone>>

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh stopped skimming and pulled out an acute pair of reading glasses. They gave her the look of a prominent doctor analyzing a patient's charts. she muttered softly, commenting here and there. Jennifer smiled at the mention of a raise and at her employer's obvious pleasure with the material presented. She knew better than to say anything or ask questions though, for Haleigh could easily change her mind.

"Remarkable.... Do we have independant confirmation of Spellbinder's supernatural abilities?"

Jen:"Yes, by two sources...."

"Oh... dramatic twist... codename Foxfire is her sister....."

Jen:"Nice, huh? Oh, and you won't see it for another page, but the codename Foxfire is also referenced to the human test subject for the TO virus."

"But that must be a mere coincedence, it says here that Valiant belives Foxfire to be dead and hasn't been seen or heard from since this Black character alledgedly killed her during the huge showdown with the 'Axis of Evil'. It also says that Black was killed shortly thereafter by Spellbinder and everyone who escaped with their lives, however narrowly, dropped from radar afterwards."

Jen:"Yeah, that's the reports Valiant kept. But keep reading... neither Black's OR Foxfire's body were found. Others that died... their bodies were found."

Haleigh looked up at her assistant. The look in her eyes seemed to burn a whole right through the woman. "You mean to tell me that Dr. Victoria abducted his own daughter and is using her to experiment the TO virus? This entire family unit is more dysfunctional than even I would have guessed....."

Jen:"Confirmed powers of Foxfire include the ability to heal at a rate that is abnormally more rapid than the average human. Her powers might counter the TO virus. at least, that is what Christopher and his colleagues believe."

"How reliable is the intelligence on the TO virus experimentation progress and this alledged human test subject?"

Jen:"Our agent on the inside has been with Clandestine Intelligence nearly three years. He is doubling as a lab tech. He's provided acurate reports since the program begun. out of curiousity, i asked him to describe the test subject. His decriptions REMARKABLY resemble THIS woman. [she points to a picture with Foxfire] Ten to one that's her."

Haleigh straightened her back, closing the file and sliding it into the envelope with the pictures. Her mind was racing over everything she'd seen. Spellbinder was on a magcikal prowess level with the Superpowers. Foxfire was most likely alive and if she WAS the test subject, the TO virus program could be in store for a significant jump in progress.

"The Citadel is far too powerful as it is. This TO virus program must be stopped. If they get their hands on a successful TO virus recipient... well, the possibilities are dangerous. This must have been that looming feeling ive had all morning. Spellbinder is the nuclear weapon we've been searching for to launch against the Citadel and Mystech. She's going to help us take that corporation down a notch."

Jennifer raised her eyebrows, as Haleigh gathered a few more photographs of the Valiant showdown and took a final look at them before putting them into the envelope as well. "but.... how will you get Spellbinder to help you? She left Valiant... she's no longer interested in protecting the world."

Haleigh smiled again, that evil, sinister smirk that creeped upon her lips like a a spreading poison. "Oh.... if she cares a thing about her sister... as these pictures suggest she does, I think she will be practically volunteering. From Morgan's most recent behaviour, I am led to believe that she feels guilty... that she feels as though she let her younger sister down, as she was unable to protect her from Black. Once she learns Blaze Fielding is alive... she'll be HIGHLY motivated to redeem herself. I need to be getting back, I am sure they're wondering if I was kidnapped. I think YOU deserve a promotion... go back to the office.... make a proposal as to what YOU think I should be paying you for your efforts. Then I want you to add another zero to our undercover Citadel operative's salary. Inform him that if he can get PICTURES of the human test subject, he will be promoted to senior officer. I will wait as long as possible to confront miss Victoria with this, i don't want to do it half-cocked. after you're done with that, compile profiles of Morgan's secretary, Alison, and Tempo Magazine's Alexis Quartermaine. Special reference to her father, that seems to be a sore subject around here. Hell, while you're at it, Find out what you can about the King Enterprises CEO. Have it on my desk, I don't want to be disturbed for the rest of the day. Suddenly I feel as though this 'collaboration' effort isnt just circumstance."

It suddenly became very obvious why Haleigh was such a successful woman. when she dealt out orders... she really hit all her bases. She was a leader and nearly everyone who worked with her admired her professionalism. Those who didn't were often "terminated".... Jen disappeared without questioning a single order and Haleigh unclicked her 'pen'. She let herself out of the room and back into the media room.... where Spellbinder had reappeared and the Crew was making the last few minor adjustments. Haleigh gave a smile to the women, as she walked over and slid Morgan's file into her briefcase.

"Thank you all for your patience, and my apologies if I've held up progress. I try not to juggle business so inconsiderately but that was a very important call. Mike, move this lamp to quadrant sixteen, see if we can't get a soft glow going. I hope you don't mind, Morgan. Can I call you Morgan? I like to get a few candids, some subjects end up liking the natural, 'in action' look...."

Haleigh said, in nonchalance. She kept her eyes on Morgan since her first entrance to the room and gave the Executive a meaningful look when she stressed how important the call was. If the woman only knew.... she peeled off her coat and moved to a chair closer to the set but out of the way to supervise. She was going to have an interview of her own with Morgan Victoria after this.... perhaps she should invite the CEO to lunch....

Yes.... I'll have a late lunch with the infamous Spellbinder....

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: As she awaited Morgan to return, she continued to look out the large windows next to the set. Her eyes fixated on the sky, the clouds began to move at a rapid speed. Winds bellowed and could be heard even through the thick glass. Jumping slightly as the electricity began to flicker in the room, her eyes shot up to the ceiling seeing the lights blink on and off. Looking back out the window, her breath was shallow as she struggled to breath. With her eyes wide, this weather....was oh too familiar for Alexis. The night she killed Adam the same eerie occurrences happened. ::

:: So taken by what was going on, Alexis didn't notice Morgan enter the media room and make her way to the set. Alexis heard Morgan thrashing insults on the Magazine CEO, but it was as if it was muffled. It as apparent something was wrong with Alexis---it was written all over her beautiful face. That and the fact she hadn't sent a catty comment back at Morgan like she would have normally done. Finally, a loud crash startled Alexis, making her jump in her seat. Looking towards the direction of the crash, she saw that one of Haleighs workers had dropped a piece of equipment. Somewhat out of breath, she looked at Morgan across from her, Alexis' aqua orbs meeting with hers. ::

"...What....Oh, yes. Uhm, i'm sorry..."

:: Clearing her throat she waved Tracy over. Placing her hand on her stomach as if she was having difficulty breathing, Alexis once again looked at Morgan and smiled acting as if everything was ok. ::

"Lets get started shall we..."

:: Allowing her eyes to shift towards the window once more, she knew something wasn't right at all. ::

[Jill Monroe]

<<as morgan awaited an equally bitchy retort....she too looked across and out of the window...noticing the skies...and hearing how extreme the winds were....and that it wasnt due to anything on HER part. She had an affinity for the winds thanks to her wretched father..but this all felt unnatural. then...there was that power flux...it was as though something being consumed....everyone paused uneasily for a few moments....but all seemed to resume normalcy when Haleigh arrived....the crash of equipment being dropped startled here as well....>>

Oh..ah yes. let's get started Alexis. the ball is in your court.


<<as Morgan shifts slightly and becomes less posed ..she sits more naturally..looking very calm and tranquil....at Haleigh's direction, the lighting as adjusted slightly so that now it appears that Morgan and Alexis are seated in a cozy study of an old world victorian mansion. Haleigh's team does an excellent job of capturing that warm, cozy, yet old world elegant feeling....and as Haleigh watches through her own personal monitor......Morgan looks over at her>>

<< in an icy voice>>: Sure, there's no reason why we cant be informal with each other. Itll make things go that much more smoothly.

<< the look on her face was so far from anything that Haleigh had seen in those photographs....she couldnt help but have a "split screen" image in her mind....one view of a woman flowing with rage as she channeled exterme mystical might....and the other of this woman who seemed extremely guarded...yet her icy violet eyes hinted to a internal weariness>>

<< being a super model, she was very accustomed to taking direction from a photographer...so as Haleigh directed her staff and asked Morgan for candids...she was easily able to comply>>

<<it was now Alexis' move>>

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Looking towards Tracy, she saw her assistant was prepared to write down the interview. With that, Alexis turned to Morgan and smiled. Even though the young CEO of Tempo was a flat out bitch, she was professional---though some might not think that way after her cattyness towards both Morgan and Alison. But to Alexis, she knew both the woman from past occasions, and was less formal with them. Looking down at her notes, Alexis began. ::

"Thank you for meeting with me today, Morgan. Tempo magazine readers have been egar to read about you for so many years, and it sincerly is a pleasure to be doing this interview with you now. Now, to get started. Throughout the years, tabloids have written so many rumors about your life that you have ignored---such as: you eledged relationship with Jude Law, cosmetic surgery, and the very infamous one, that you are a indeed a witch. Do you feel that you don't need to fight these accusations because you know they are false....or as so many Tempo readers would like to know, are some of these rumors really true?"

:: Smiling, the lights continued to flicker above the set. Growing annoyed, Alexis glanced upward and narrowed her eyes descretely sending a feed of energy throughout the room. A subtle blue light emitted from the lights and slowly faded away as Alexis again made eye contact with Morgan. Shifting in her seat, she became more comfortable. Although Alexis' actions weren't obvious, for those who truly paid attention, they would notice this room was the only room not flickering and effected by the city wide power drain. Clearing her throat once again, she smiled softly at Morgan. ::

[Jessica Hamby]

There was a dull ache beginning to fill Haleigh's ribs as she breathed. It was almost like a cramp, as Alexis began by asking Morgan her first question. She hid her discomfort, the type of person to 'play through the pain', as she watched her crew men performing various tasks, noticing the lights in the room stop flickering but thinking nothing of it.... Haleigh's old injuries [nearly five years now] were always aggravated when she was around higher than normal exposure to electric currents....

Must be a very STRONG thunderstorm overhead... there is suddenly a lot of electricity around.... what the hell is he trying to do?

Unlike the others in the room, Haleigh had seen the crash as it happened, and was unaffected by the loud noise it caused. The crewmember that dropped the equipment looked up immediately, knowing everyone heard it. Haleigh gave him a look of contempt and spoke directly to him in a cold and ridiculing tone.

"Would you like to be a little more careful with my equipment, buddy?"

The boy, who looked like he was fresh out of high school, nodded sheepishly and Haleigh returned to overseeing the shoot. As Morgan and Alexis began to talk, Haleigh listened intently for an answer.... she was quite interested in how Morgan would handle that first one... play it off? deny it outright? Haleigh waved over a young man and whispered in his ear. The man in turn whispered in the photographer's ear, who nodded and adjusted slightly. Haleigh didn't want to disturb the flow of the interview by talking over them to give orders.... AND she didnt want to give Morgan an easy out.... Alexis was asking the right questions, but Morgan was obviously too smart to admit to anything...

[Jacob Black]

As Cameron and Vivica reached the doors of Illustra, they were still a little shaken from their meeting with Morgan, and the clouds in the sky seemed to reflect both's feelings at the time. The normally clear blue skies of the city, seemed to darken, leaving not only an edgy feeling in the air, but somewhat of an impending feeling of dread. Weird things were going on today and it particularly began to annoy Cameron. Never in his life had he had so many run ins with magick or mutants in one day, especially ones he couldn't protect himself against. It actually worried him. If he was supposed to be the next step in evolution, and had power that no other mutant quite had, then what were these witches? If Mutants were Homo Superior, were these practicioners of magick even greater? For a brief moment, Cameron wondered if these were ever the thoughts running through the minds of humans? Is this the fear that they felt, the hatred that drove them to try and erase the mutants forever? Cameron was lost in thought as he saw Hayleigh enter the doors to Illustra with a cool and confident air. Was she a witch too? Before long, both Vivica and Cameron had become quite uncomfortable at Illustra and decided to go for that drink at the Rainbow Room. As their Limo arrived, both got in and sat down as Cameron pushed the intercom butting letting Carlos know where they were headed. He then looked at Vivica and sighed.

Cameron: "Well, how is it that we always manage to get into situations like this one? Never ceases to fail? What are we going to do. There is no way that Morgan Victoria can expect us to go in there and pretend that everything is normal, business ettiquette aside.."

Vivica: "I know what you mean and I for one, do not want to be frozen again. I don't like not being in control of my own body. Do you think we should tell her that we ourselves are mutants? It would probably make things go a lot smoother...

Cameron: "I am not sure, although it could be quite the interesting business advantage to us. Give us what we want or we expose her secret?"

Vivica: "Cameron, for once in your life, stop thinking about your fucking business. This is a little more serious than that! This is a Sorceress! Obviously she has powers that neither myself or you can resist! Do you really want to piss her off?"

Cameron: "Since I know you want to keep your job, I will pretend you didn't just say that in such a nasty tone. However, I believe that you are right in this endeavour. Come on, let's get to the Rainbow Room. I need a drink really bad."

As the Limo pulled up to the infamous Rainbow Room, Cameron and Vivica walked into the doors and to the Elevator where they hit the button and waited. When the doors opened at their destination, they got out and headed up to the Hostess. Cameron smirked at the young girl and turned on the charm.

"Hello, we would like a private booth for two please. The Name is Cameron King. I am sure I am on the list..."

The young girl looked on the sheet, but could not find his name. As she took another look at him, she rolled her eyes and laughed.

Young Girl: You think I let every man in here that bouts his eyes?

Cameron became extremely upset as he looked down at the sheet of paper and then the girl. He probed her mind as he felt energy trickling through his body. Once the connection was made, he used his ability to create mental illusions to make the girl see his name on the list. He snapped back at her with great arrogance.

"I suggest you look back on that list before I get your manager out here and have you fired!"

Rolling her eyes, the girl looked back on the list and then exhibited a shocked look, as if the name Cameron King hadn't been there before. She eyed both Cameron and Vivica before apologizing and guiding them to a private booth that was surrounded by curtains. Both ordered a Dry Martini. Cameron looked at Vivica and got serious.

"Ok, are you ready? We've done this before.. I just want to see what you get out of this? Okay?"

Grabbing Vivica's hands, Cameron closed his eyes as his body seemed to be surrounded by a bright green aura, which soon took over Vivica. With a surge of green energy, Vivica began to see what Cameron had. The Temporal Stasis, Morgan in some kind of nightmare state, and then the two being sent out of the room. In the middle of the vision, the Waitress tried to open the cutrain and give the two their drinks as Cameron glanced over at the curtain, squinting his eyes to hold it shut, so as not to reveal themselves. As Vivica opened her eyes, the green energy faded and Cameron let go of his hold on the curtain. As soon as the martini was put on the table, Vivica took the entire thing and slammed it down her throat, asking for another one. She looked at Cameron and shook her head.

Vivica: I knew there was something going on with Alison! I think she is a Seer of some sorts, they are usually connected with that kind of power and....

Suddenly, Vivica was starting to put it together. Using her ability of Total Recall, she began scanning through pictures of Valiant she had seen in newspapers over the years. Some of them seemed to match, something was familiar with them. She came past a picture of the Witch Member Spellbinder and almost gasped in her seat. She sensed that the two were one in the same. Her mouth wide opened, she quickly closed it and gasped.

Vivica: I don't think we are just dealing with any random witch, Cameron. I think we are dealing with Spellbinder!

[Jill Monroe]

<< as the interview begins....all seems to flow smoothly as the photography crew captures Alexis and Morgan in what appears to be a warm, cozy victorian sun room>>

"Thank you for meeting with me today, Morgan. Tempo magazine readers have been egar to read about you for so many years, and it sincerly is a pleasure to be doing this interview with you now. Now, to get started. Throughout the years, tabloids have written so many rumors about your life that you have ignored---such as: you eledged relationship with Jude Law, cosmetic surgery, and the very infamous one, that you are a indeed a witch. Do you feel that you don't need to fight these accusations because you know they are false....or as so many Tempo readers would like to know, are some of these rumors really true?"


<< Morgan sat feminine yet comfortably with a look of cool calm....as she smiled back at Alexis....and as she prepared to answer....Haleigh, through the small palm monitor that she was using to observe the interview as her photographers filmed...she could see an almost BLACK aura surrounding the sorceress.....a sign that underneath the poise, the elegance and the polished exterior.....there apparently lurks a very dark soul>>

<<laughing softly before replying in an icy voice>>:

Jude Law? no, I'm afraid not. He and I have had many photo ops together during my time in europe last year but any kind of romantic encounters?....absolutely not. << she spoke with icy clarity and a matter of factness that was reminiscent of the woman she was BEFORE all of the drama with Valiant>>

Cosmetic Surgery? Come now Alexis, I've no need of it. Cut up my face to attempt to "look younger" or to "compete with younger women"? that's always puzzled me. No, I have not had cosmetic surgery. You saw my current portfolio....i should think that with as keen an eye as you have, given your field....you would be able to discern any changes in my facial structure or body.

"A Witch"?.....<< throws her head back and laughs..which makes for some fabulous candids....an illusion that Morgan is actually a happy woman>>
Well...what super model in the fashion industry HASNT been called a witch by her staff or others that she's come in contact with? thats par for the course, Alexis. As long as people keep talking about me...that means I'm still relevant...something every model worth her salt knows.

<< Morgan shifted smoothly as she changed positions....easily playing off Alexis' last question in regards to her being a "a witch".....nearby, Alison, smirked with wicked delight>>

Alison: good girl Morg.........keep the tabloid twit at bay....someone out to ask her about her never ending love affair with THE BOTTLE

<< Alison laughed softly as Morgan matter of factly answered the first two questions and deftly played off the last one.....even the photography crew seemed to be surprised by Morgan's composure.>>

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Laughing along with Morgan, she nodded her head agreeing with all that she had said. Looking to Tracy, her assistant quickly began to write down notes about the on going interview. With her free hand, she held a black tape recorder in which recorded the entire interview for later. Raising a brow, she once again gazed towards Morgan. Her professional poise and calm exterior didn't fool Alexis for one minute. She avoided the last question with such grace, it would of slipped past an amateur reporter. Smiling, she glanced down at her notes then back up at Morgan. Parting her lips, she happened to catch Alison grinning wickedly in the background---not giving it another thought, she continued on with the interview. ::

"Oh of course, I wasn't insinuating anything about these alleged accusations about plastic surgery. I only ask about what I hear."

:: Chuckling softly, Alexis had a coy smile...of course, not letting the witch subject go. ::

"And you are very true about other prima donna models being "witches"...but that's not what I meant. I'll clarify. There have been many rumors in many top magazines that say you are indeed a witch. Definition: A woman who possess magical powers and practice sorcery. And with those rumors, they're said to be eye witness accounts. What do you have to say about this?"

:: Alexis had always been interested in whether Morgan was indeed a witch. She too wasn't a full "human", being able to manipulate and control energy. Although she as eager to know the truth, Morgan was obviously going to avoid the question, seeing as how she did before. ::

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh sat back in her chair, which was 'director' style, her eyes shifting from Morgan and Alexis to the various moniters in fron of her. One monitor previewed thumbnail of the shots James was getting on the digital camera... one showed a slideshow of each particular one... and one... wait.... one seemed to be malfunctioning... but as Haleigh looked closer... she realized it wasn't... not only could her state of the art equipment NOT be malfunctioning... but it WAS Spellbinder she was dealing with... a few electronical abnormalities could be expected. Haleigh's expression went from slightly befudled to relaxed as Morgan laughed... She looked up at Morgan, goading her slightly.

"Yes, that was good morgan, we got quite a few captures from that you'll like... it gave you a nice warm aura."

She said, allowing a sly smile to her lips as she locks eyes with the sorcereress. Quite suddenly, her cellphone rings again.... this time "Fur Elise" by Beethoven wafts from where her things are... she purses her lips and gets to her feet.

"My apologies... carry on, please."

Haleigh showed no emotion as she passed Alison to get to her coat, though it could be said she was quite angry... as it was rather obnoxious to be getting so many calls during a meeting.... Haleigh's belongings were in nearly the opposite corner, so she spoke quitely. She could probably be overheard, but at this distance, the person on the other end of the connection could not be heard by the women involved in the interview.

"This better be important, I wished not to be disturbed."
>>Are you alone?
"No... I'm in the media room, in the middle of an interview, what's so pressing?"
>>We have photo intel being transmitted from Mystech.... its Foxfire alright.... and our operative says she's about to undergo the exposure process of the TO virus experiment.
"How revealing are the pictures?"
>>Very. They confirm her id. Victoria will recgonize her in these. They also reveal the interior of Citadel labs.
"Can you... can you forward those to my file?"
>>Certainly.
"Thank you."

Haleigh said, her eyes casting to her briefcase, where the file was. She wouldnt look at them now... instead she looked to the women across the room... them didnt seem to be alarmed by anything she'd just discussed.... and Haleigh had been cryptic enough in her speaking that she revealed nothing. She returned to the 'group' with nonchalance.... and waited for this interview to be over. If she was going to 'recruit' Spellbinder.... her window of opportunity was going to be narrow.

[Jill Monroe]

<< Morgan changes positions again...maintaining ease and comfort...Alexis persists with the question of whether or not Morgan is in fact a witch....despite Morgan's deftly playing it off the first time>>

clever girl....she's not just a pretty face

<< as Morgan admires her own neatly manicured hand...she looks over at Haleigh, then Alison .....then turns back to Alexis>>

As a matter of fact..........


<< Alison gestures and freezes the entire room>>

Morgan: Alison....fix it so that portion of the interview is capped with my initial answer to the question about my being a witch is all she has.....since you can "See" the outcome of this interview...fast forward us to the end.....and make sure her scribe has everything properly recorded...we dont want her to suffer...i just would rather keep my identity a secret.

Alison: Gotcha Morgan! << Alison...a Seer with immense power....worked her time manipulating magicks....to carry to Carry Morgan's request...and as all was now complete.......she waved her hands...and released everyone from Temporal Stasis>>


<< right in time with what was going on.. Morgan speaks as though things had been moving smoothly all along>>: no Alexis...thank YOU for taking the time to interview me once more. It was a pleasure seeing you again.

<< she slowly stood up and reached out to shake Alexis' hand>>

Now if youll excuse me...i MUST get back up to the circular executive suite....ive got some matters to attend to. Alison has ensured your scribe has secured a complete transcript of the interview...and Haleigh's team has all the candids and publicity stills they need.

Thank you both...and my receptionist will have your compensation waiting for you on the way out!

<< the two large black men in suits and sun glasses stepped into the room as Morgan left.....Alison lingered for a moment to make sure all was as she made it to be...and then she too followed out>>

Alison: << two the agents>>: make sure they do NOT go anywhere on this floor but to the elevators...escort them to the main lobby and make sure they receive their compensation on their way out.

<< Alison leaves....>>

[Pam De Beaufort]

:: Smirking slightly as Morgan began to speak, suddenly she was frozen. Time began to pass as everyone in the media room was frozen in position and Alison did her deed for Morgan. Finally, after a few minutes, Alexis and everyone else in the room unfroze. Of course, it was as if she hadn't been frozen, everything seemed normal to the reporter until Morgan abruptly ended the interview. Taking Morgan's hand, she stood from her chair confused. Shaking it, she nodded to Morgan and watched her leave the media room. With a bit of a stunned look on her face, she pulled the cuff of her white blazer sleeve up and revealed a silver Gucci watch. Reading the time, it seemed as if they only just started....but of course, Alexis shrugged the situation off and turned to Tracy. ::

"Alright, we have everything we need here. Let's go."

:: Walking to the chair where her purse was placed at, she grabbed it and put it on her shoulder. Walking out, Tracy quickly followed behind fumbling with all of her items. The two large black men escorted both Alexis and Tracy to the elevator and left once they saw the two ladies were on it. As the elevator doors closed, Alexis leaned back and began to think. What the hell was going on in this place. The moment she stepped into Illustra Inc, it was as if she was stepping into the Twilight Zone. Grunting, she glanced over at Tracy and let a small sigh escape her lips. ::

"I'm taking the rest of the day off. Cancel all my appointments...and make sure a rough draft of this interview is on my desk by tomorrow."

:: As the elevator doors opened, Alexis stepped out grabbing her brief case which was sitting next to Tracy. Walking to Illustra's doors, she saw her limo parked out front and headed towards it. With Tracy scrambling behind Alexis, trying to keep up, Alexis finally turned around as she opened Illustra's main door and spoke. ::

"Take a cab, Tracy."

:: Walking out the buildings doors, she made her way over to the open door of the limo and climbed in. As soon as the door shut, Alexis sat back letting her head rest back. Shutting her eyes, she exhaled slowly replaying the events of the interview in her head. ::

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh sat up straight in her chair, suddenly aware that the interview was over. She felt strange, as though she had missed something.... and she didn't like the feeling... she let it pass though, as the interview was over and now was her chance. She picks up her briefcase and folds her coat over her arm, instructing her crew to pack up and go back to the office without her, as she makes a rather quick move to follow Morgan, passing Alexis swiftly. There's No WAY she was letting her opportunity pass her by.

"Morgan.... actually, I'd like to discuss something."

She was actually surprised that with all her hinting [or, with all the hinting she had planned on and thought she did] Morgan wasn't biting.

"I think you'll find this VERY interesting. Blaze would... or perhaps you mother, Karen...."

She braced herself for a whiplash of response... but she had never gotten where she was without being bold in her actions.

[Jill Monroe]

<< Morgan , who had made it down the hall and was meeting with with Alison at the private express elevator stopped in her tracks>>

<< she slowly turned around......thunder rumbled in the air...INSIDE the building...a signature indication that Morgan's nerves had been agitated. Alison watched Haleigh like a hawk.....>>

<< in a cold tone>>: .......im sorry......but i dont know whom you are referring to.....but if you would excuse me....Alison and I have much to attend to before the close of the day here at Illustra.

<< she slowly turned..and attempted to leave....trying to stifle the urge to hem Haleigh up against the wall.....>>

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh smiled what was quite possibly the most wicked smile she'd produced all day. The very smile seemed to call Morgan a liar more loudly than Haleigh's words could have. Haleigh wasn't backing down... she crossed her arms and stood as tall as her frame permitted, bearing down on Morgan with chilling blue eyes. Morgan may have been taller... but Haleigh had the control in this matter and it was becoming clear that she was going to flaunt it. Now that they were away from Alexis and the other people that Haleigh didn't care to share this with, she let her words flow more freely.

"You know.... I think Blaze would be hurt to hear you say something like that.... and I think Karen would rather not be put in a difficult situation... as she's already been so traumatized by Dr. Victoria."

Haleigh was aware that Alison was giving her the look of death... she didn't care. All three of the women knew that if Haleigh KNEW this information.... she likely wasn't the only one.... and that was one of the few cards (http://69.42.87.196/cgi-bin/v40/ezlclk.fcgi?id=6915) Haleigh held... she was going to hold it well. She took strong control of the situation, directing it quickly, stepping into the private elevator and allowing the door to close. She knew it was a daring move, that in the elevator with one[quite possibly two, though there was no confirmation of Alison yet] powerfull sorceress and knowingly provoking that woman was detrimental to her well being... but she wanted to illustrate her disregard for their anger AND her fearlessness. the fact that Morgan acted so calmly when presented with news (http://69.42.87.196/cgi-bin/v40/ezlclk.fcgi?id=6872) of her sister... whom she believed dead... only meant she was a controlled woman.... and that an outburst was likely. Haleigh was as prepared as she could be... under the circumstances.

"Now, Alison, I'll address you directly because I can SEE you are very important to Morgan... please put your eyeballs BACK inside your head... Morgan... or should I call you SPELLBINDER? I'm sure you have MANY things that require your immediate attention here at Illustra... but I have something more pressing, and if you will relax and stop imagining the ways to dispose of my body.... I will tell you what you can do for your sister. I'm hungry. Shall we go to a late lunch? I know.... lets take a stepping disc... I'm very interested in how those work exactly."

[Jill Monroe]

<< Morgan and Alison were stunned by this woman.....as all three stood in the xpress pneumatic tube that shot up to the top floors of Illustra>>

<<as the doors opened.....Haleigh attmempted to step out....but Alison blocked her path...and Morgan grabbed her arm..forcibly yanking her back to face her. The files didnt convey exactly how STRONG she was physically.....she could lift/press 50 tons....that qualified her to have the ranking of Shift X class super strength. her gripe on Haleigh's arm was like a vise>>

<< her voice now dripping with anger>>: how DARE you!

how DARE you toy with me about Blaze and my Mother! << she glared at Haleigh....>> if you know that I'm Spellbinder...then you know i can cause you GREAT PAIN....I dont like being trifled with...and THIS tasteless joke is about to bring YOU a WORLD of hurt....if you dont explain yourself RIGHT NOW!

[Jessica Hamby]

Haleigh raised an eyebrow at Alison as she took place in her path out of the elevator. Haleigh didn't like feeling trapped.... and she was about to politely tell Alison to get the HELL out of her way... when Haleigh was grabbed and whipped around so fast that several vertebre in her spine popped.... she expected as much.... and though her arm quickly began to ache under Morgan's grip, and Haleigh could feel blood trickling down the inside of her arms from Morgan's nails.... Haleigh conveyed no discomfort... it wasn't until Morgan began to threaten her with 'great pain' that Haleigh's cool and calm facade snapped.... the temperature around them dropped so quickly that it any hint of heat seemed long gone. It was near freezing, as though the heating systems had been out for hours and the last traces of bodyheat had dissipated. Haleigh's breath came out as steam, as though they were standing outside in the winter weather of New York. Haleigh was showing the first signs of true emotion, her eyes blazing with fury and her voice snarling with contempt.

"A world of HURT?? You know NOTHING about me and you know NOTHING about great pain! Let me show YOU great pain, you overzealous, high-and-mighty hag!"

And then the temperature stopped dropping.... Haleigh regained her composure, letting out a sigh of frustration and licking her lips, mentally scolding herself for the outburst. She was better than that... more in control of herself for that. Nothing got under her skin more than the threat of bodily harm.... but she was usually able to laugh it off. She looked down at her arm and Spellbinder's hand. Her arm was nearly going blue from the circulation problems Morgan was causing.

"I see that I have your attention.... your file said you were strong.... but this is impressive. Listen, Morgan.... I apologize for calling you that... we will get NOWHERE trying to intimidate or insult each other. I have no intention of exposing you... OR your mother. If I did, I would be having a conversation with Ms. Quartermaine.... and I would probably still have feeling in my arm. i would not BE here if this wasn't beneficial to my cause. If you think I give a DAMN about you or ANYONE in your little bubble... you need a serious reality check. HOWEVER.... I have a win-win proposal. We can BOTH benefit from a partnership. You can help me bring the Citadel, and Mystec, to its knees.... and in return.... I will help you save your sister. She doesn't HAVE to be another casualty of the TO virus program.... but your anger is costing you PRECIOUS seconds. Now.... I 'm sure you know of a nice place we can eat... in privacy.... were I can provide you with PROOF to back up my proposal."

[Jill Monroe]

<< Spellbinder felt the temperature drop.....FAST...but her own natural oral and body temperatures were colder than most "normal" human beings... but her hand that was forcibly gripping Haleigh was starting to suffer from that immediate contact to the "source" of the dramatic temperature drop soshe shoved Haleigh back and away from her.>>

<< Alison too felt the cold...and it sliced through her body very quickly...although she too was a practicioner of magick..she was unprepared for the occurrence of Haleigh having powers of her own>>

Morgan.........its been over a year.....and i still havent recovered...and then you appear....with such monstrous news....i should tear you limb from limb.....

<<alison interrupts>>: BELIEVE her Morgan......she's telling the truth...i ....finally "see" that now....

<<Alison was a powerful Seer, possesing not only total clarity of "vision" both past, present and future, but a manipulator of time and magick as well...but MysTech's on shrewd use of magick had kept her from probing their Citadle......until now..as she zeroed in on MysTech thanks to the thought provoking words of Haleigh..it became clear that at least what she was alleging was true>>

<< Morgan was taken aback...that Alison would come forth like that...not only exposing herself for being MORE than Morgan's assistant, but that she so quickly validated Haleigh's allegations>>

Morgan:........allright....i know a place we can go.....<<she stifled the urge to threaten this woman once more>> ...its located a ways from here and rather secluded. Alison....cancel all my appointments for the rest of the day.....and activate Illustra's scrambling and security systems. Send the staff home early BUT KEEP Michael and Derek (the two escorts) here to help you. I will contact you as soon.....as this woman tells me what she knows.

<< Alison nodded and left the pneumatic express tube>>

alright Haleigh.....

<< Morgan's glare didnt soften.....she couldnt show any reaction...she she was too deeply STUNNED.....but she would do what she was known for...and push on inspite of her feeling....remaining cold and steel edged>>

<< a wave of her hand heralds an eldritch chime followed by a blast of thunder....a stepping disc opens beneather their feet and encompasses them and in the twinkling of the sorceress' eye, Morgan and Haleigh teleport from Illustra in manhattan to "Shooters" a cute, trendy, yet secluded Diner on the lower east side >>