Blood makes noise

[Artemis]

The Parthenon

Cameron cut in.

"Obviously since you GOT the message you know you're being included...so unless you're gunning for "Most Dramatic Person in a Conference Room" can you just cool down for a minute AT LEAST until everybody gets here...?"

:: Delilah WAS being needlessly combative. From the way Cameron quickly countered Delilah, it was clear he was growing tired of her behavior. He wasn't the only one. She'd seen/heard comments from others as well. Delilah HERSELF half way admitted to being rather difficult before Alycia brought her to NYC. Alycia had defended Delilah and been as supportive as she could be, but right NOW? with her concerns over ROSE, the emerging issue of Dominique and the necessity of this team meeting, Alycia was not in the mood for Delilah being obtuse and combative. [/quote]

He stopped for a moment as Alycia asked about Alison. He really didn't want to explain all of this in front of Delilah who would only scoff and make even more bitchy remarks about his sister wanting to take a different approach...Thankfully he wouldn't have to as Ava interjected.

Ava: [on the phone] "It's Haleigh. What? Shit."

Ava rose.

Ava: "Sally's been attacked outside of XS and Cass has been kidnapped. Blaze and Vivica are under heavy fire. Someone already called the police. We need to get in and out."

And then she dissappeared in a flurry of winds. Cameron tried to calm the team.

Oh Goddess, SALLY!

:: The idea that Sally had been assaulted, cut down by an enemy of the Six, it horrified Alycia. Cass had been KIDNAPPED!? WHO were they dealing with?!::

We have to go to them! we have to help them!

"Please...stand down for now. Ava has got this...

Cameron! Sally is HUMAN! We can't....

and besides...now that they have Cass.."



[looking at each of them]

"They're coming after me."

:: Alycia stared at Cameron intently::

IS THERE SOMETHING YOU WANTED TO TELL ME BEFORE NOW!?

:: SHE "SHOUTED" at him via their psychic rapport, when suddenly::

Nicolas was trying to maintain his composure. He and Sally were very close. And so he uninterested in anything shy of fucking people up. And Cameron sending Ava alone was not what he wanted to hear.

I will watch Ava's back. Do NOT try to stop me.

:: Alycia started to object, but Nicolas impulsively shunts himself across the astral plane to where Ava and the others are now::

We can't continue to just REACT. We need to get to the hospital where Sally is being taken, PROTECT HER and the staff to make sure they can SAVE her and ...

:: Glaring at Cameron::

Find out just WHO is behind all this.


:: Nicolas and Ava RETURNED, with a shaken Firebird. THANKFULLY, Ava had used her elemental powers to counteract the effects of the cryo-beam. Firebird had expended an INCREDIBLE amount of her energy and firepower in the struggle against that beam. it was a MIRACLE she had survived, but now thanks to Ava, she was out of physical danger and already lucid, thanks to Nicolas' neural jumpstart::

:: Alycia went to Blaze::

Sally....it's all my fault!

:: The fire elemental cried. Alycia took one of her hands into her own and brushed some of her auburn hair from her face. She was still grief stricken.::

Hush, Blaze.

::She looked at Cameron and then Ava::

Do we know what hospital they're taking her to? We need to get there fast! Don't think for a minute that whoever attacked her didn't do it to get to US and that they won't come back for her in the hospital!

 

[Firebird]

From the Parthenon to XS

She was losing consciousness. The only think that kept hanging on THIS long, by now, was the beautiful garnett ring on her finger. IT was glowing and a red halo was around her hand. The ring, imbued with her's AND Foxfire's essence and power, was acting as a life support measure, buffering the last output of power that Firebird had left trying to sustain herself and repel the attack of the cryo beam.

She didn't see, couldn't here anything or anyone else. Persephone arrived, giving Vivica her one chance to disarm and subdue the Purifier. Blaze fell to the ground, barely conscious, but alive.

gently placing Blaze down on the ground.

"God, you're freezing..."

Blaze's body was like ice, and her skin was pale with almost a blue hue to it. But before she could help Blaze, she needed to secure the purifier.

First there was the edge of darkness. Then there was a more stable of feeling of...tranquility?

Ava turned to Blaze. Her eyes softened as she knelt down beside her friend. A soft breeze began to sweep through the alley way as the temperature increased. The breeze was now warm and circling around Blazes' body, helping her warm up. Ava could see the color returning to her face.

"Blaze? Can you hear me?"

Firebird could absorb ambient heat from any source, including Persephone's vortex of warm air. The elemental was gradually INCREASING the temperature of heat in the vortex as she concentrated its circulation around Blaze. Persephone knew there was no known upper limit to how much heat Blaze could absorb so this was a sound move on her part, a LIFE SAVING one.


Blaze's breathing began to return to more regular pattern, her vital signs were growing stronger and her eyes began to move and flutter as she slowly stirred. Persephone's voice rang out like a soft echo as the darkness gave way to a more "dream" like level of unconsciousness.

Ava???

Blaze was AWARE again.

Grabbing Blaze's hand, she was starting to feel warmer. Ava wanted to make sure that Blaze was stabilized before taking her and the purifier back to the Parthenon.

Blaze's hand immediately squeezed Ava's. She was coming around!

"Uggnnnn....."

The fire elemental groaned as her eyes fluttered more and soon OPENED...

"....Ava?"

Still not fully lucid though.

He knelt by Ava, who was warming Ava slowly but surely.

Great work Ava. I have her. Take your prisoner and let's return.

Nicolas picked up the fire elemental and gave her a neural jumpstart, boosting her in body and mind as he brought her...

...back to the meeting room, holding her as he allowed her to reorient herself.

It all began to return to her.


"Ava?? Nicolas?"

"Vivica....CASS...SALLY?!"

"Where are they!?"

Shhhhh! It's alright, Blaze. Vivica is with Sally, they're on their way to the hospital right now!

"Sally..."

She said with pained grief in her voice...

"It's all my fault!"

:: Taking one of Blaze's hands into her own and placing her other hand on Blaze's forehead::

Hush, Blaze.

The Amazon gently commanded as she performed some kind of amazonian touch therapy to instill CALM in Blaze. The fire elemental relaxed in Nicolas' arms. Persephone had saved her life, but her MENTAL state was still in question.

For the moment, she was a "passenger" as the others prepared to get to the hospital where Vivica, Sally and Haleigh were on their way too.

 

[Oracle]

The Clocktower

Oracle was in her chair at the computer console while Ashley sat on the counter, her body swiveled so she could see what was happening on screen. The security feed alerted them of Zach’s presence as soon as he hit the stairwell, his profile already in the system which allowed him to pass unhindered. Luckily for him that ensured they knew who was coming in – otherwise, he might have met with a nasty surprise breaking down their door like that.

Oracle kept working while Ashley turned to assess the damage.

Ashley: “Overkill, much?”

"Sorry, I thought you were in danger...(uncomfortable pause).... at least I used the door this time?"

Ashley smacked Zizi on the arm: “See, I told you that alarm was too loud.”

She sauntered over to Zach.

Ashley: “You’ll be paying for that door.”

She reached down and smacked his ass from behind as she passed him, then turned back to catch the view as he walked away from her.

Ashley: “One way or another.”

He ruined her fun by turning to speak to her.

"Sorry. Hey Ashley, I'm glad you're here. I brought all the complaint files the SRC (Superhuman Rights Committee) has received regarding the recent spike in hate crimes. I was thinking you could take a look, maybe cross reference them with your investigations. It could turn up some new leads on this Purifiers group-- is that Sharon??"

Ashley rolled her eyes as Zach moved closer to get a better look of the video feeds and what was happening.

Ashley: “Yeah, I’ll get RIGHT on that in all my free time.”

"What HAPPENED to Sally Spectra?!"

“She’s been shot. The Six have engaged the Purifier attackers.”

Oracle continued flipping through security feeds to bulk up the scenes they were getting from Vivica.

Ashley [whispering]: “Sentinels!? Here?”

Oracle shook her head.

“They scan as human. But someone knew enough to want to make us think they were sentinels.”

Zach was on his phone pronto.

"Haleigh! Firebird, Recall and Ruby are in trouble! Sally Spectra was attacked, she's badly wounded! Police and Paramedics have been called--"

They could hear Haleigh needlessly screaming on the other end of the phone.

"It wasn't her. It was....(Glancing at Oracle) A witness to the attack. They're getting their asses handed to them, and it looks LIKE-- MY GODS! CASS HAS BEEN TAKEN!!"

Ashley leaned into the console, carefully watching the action on the screen.

Ashley: “Not to worry: it’s not her first rodeo – we have people on the inside. The paramedics and police who arrive will be ours - and more than human. No reason to broadcast that anything out of the ordinary is going on. Zizi has control of all the cameras in the area as well. So relax Gung Ho.”

Oracle indicated the split screen on Silver Swan.

“The Silver Swan has just attacked and killed a group of Purifiers who were in pursuit of that young girl.”

[Reading Katie’s lips] “My parents...they killed them...Where will I go? I don't have...I don't have ANYONE. Those men said it was my fault because I'm a mutant? That god hates muties and wants us all dead!”

Oracle turned her head and gave Ashley a meaningful look.

Ashley: “Bigot bastards. But they must have decent numbers if they can mount two attacks at once.”

They watched Sharon take the small girl into her arms and carry her away. Oracle moved quickly to track her movements with the satellite, until she touched down on a rooftop. She cross referenced the sat image with a streetmap, which appeared on a side screen.

"I've got to act NOW, I think Sharon could be one of our greatest allies. Her and I go way back."

“Just make sure that little girl is okay – everything else comes second.”

Ashley: “Get her to join us, Zach – it’s on you.”

 

[Valkyrie]

The Clocktower

Zach teleported out, leaving them alone to watch the aftermath of the fight.

Ashley squinted at the screen, more out of habit than actually needing to see better. She could see that abomination just damn fine.

“Oh for FUCK’S SAKE!”

Her hands clenched into fists and she pressed her forehead to the table between them trying to resist the urge to smash something or someone.

“A helicopter? Seriously?”

Black Widow came into Recall’s view.

“That bitch cannot cross the street without holding a press conference about it. Didn’t anyone ever teach her the meaning of the word ‘subtle’? Seriously, how are these people not already dead?”

She began massaging her temples.

“I think I’m coming down with a migraine. Maybe I should call in sick tonight…”

Oracle: “Don’t you dare! Come on, Ash, I need you down there. That girl’s been kidnapped..”

“So? Seems to me that’s the Six and Helicopter Girl’s problem.”

Oracle: “For me, please.”

The situation for now at least had been resolved, Firebird’s teammates had rescued her and Recall was on the way to the hospital with Sally.

Oracle opened the com to Recall once more: “Recall, Firebird is safe. She’s with the Six. Take care of yourself, and keep us updated on Sally. Good work out there.”

“Yeah and say hi to your BFF Black Widow for us – tell her we’re cleaning up HER mess as best we can.”

She cut the link.

“Idiot.”

Oracle:I'll go over the clips of the attack, see if I can find anything we didn't notice the first time. After I finish scrubbing the area."

"I'll plant a story about Navy maneuvers in the area - I'll say they're prepping for fleet week or something. People won't believe that shit forever though."

She grabbed her keys and stepped through the wreckage of the door, then called back inside.

"And get someone to fix this damn door!"

 

[MorningStar]

The Parthenon, Executive Conference Room

Hello to you too, Delilah.

Oh lord, not today. Ain’t nobody have time for that shit today.

[slightly annoyed roll of the eyes] “Hellooo.”

Cameron's telepathic alert was my first indication that something was wrong [with the Six] as well. It's important for all of us to be here.

Delilah rolled her head toward Alycia, giving her a sarcastic smile.

“Trust me, that really depends on who you ask.”

"Obviously since you GOT the message you know you're being included...so unless you're gunning for "Most Dramatic Person in a Conference Room" can you just cool down for a minute AT LEAST until everybody gets here...?"

She scoffed.

“My darling Cam, you will ALWAYS win Most Dramatic Person in a Conference Room, so don’t you worry a thing. But who died and put you in charge – is it Morgan? PLEASE tell me it’s Morgan. She’s in desperate need of a close encounter with a beast from a hell dimension.”

"Haleigh will be here in a minute. She's finishing up at Clandestine. Any word on Blaze?"

[Examining her nails] “She’s a bitch.”

Delilah yawned while Ava answered her phone. Manners, manners.

"It's Haleigh. Sally's been attacked outside of XS and Cass has been kidnapped. Blaze and Vivica are under heavy fire. Someone already called the police. We need to get in and out."

Delilah stood up quickly.

“Did you say, Sally?! What did Haleigh say, is she okay-?”

But Ava had already Wicked Witch of the Wested out.

"Please...stand down for now. Ava has got this...and besides...now that they have Cass…"

Delilah gave Cameron and incredulous look. What was going on with him? She knew Malice scared the shit out of him, but surely it wasn’t THIS bad?

“Cam, what the fuck? We’re going.”

They're coming after me."

Her face softened with surprise. She pushed him, firmly but gently, so she was between him and the door, then put her hands on the closed door. A “seal” made of green light formed around the doorframe, shielding them inside. She moved to face Cameron, deep concern on her face.

I will watch Ava's back. Do NOT try to stop me.

Nicolas blinked out or whatever it was he did.

“Pfft no one’s gonna.”

She looked Cam in the eyes.

“Now tell me what’s going on.”

Ava and Nicolas returned suddenly with Blaze, who looked worse for wear. Boo hoo.

"What the hell happened out there?!"

Alycia tried to comfort the Mutant Torch.

Hush, Blaze. Do we know what hospital they're taking her to? We need to get there fast! Don't think for a minute that whoever attacked her didn't do it to get to US and that they won't come back for her in the hospital!

“Wait a second – let’s think about this. No one wants to make sure Sally’s alright more than I do, but Haleigh’s taking care of her. Cameron’s in danger too right now, and we can’t lead him right to whoever’s doing this.”

 

[Seer]

And So

<<Recall and Black Widow provide Sally Spectra with a FIGHTING CHANCE to survive the brutal attack by the Purifers. Recall also managed to subdue and capture Deborah, the last remaining Purifer from that assault. >>

<< From Oracle's view, this was a TREMENDOUS breakthrough. But she and Ashley are taken aback by the TREMENDOUS response from Black Widow, the de facto leader of the Six at this point, would go to ANY LENGTHS to CONTROL this situation and protect her own. Still, Oracle was not easily outdone. As Black Widow would soon learn. >>

<< Meanwhile, Persephone brutally "confines" confines the purifier, who will be taken to a holding cell for questioning.>>

<< The goddess then revives and stabilizes Firebird, who is carried back to the Parthenon by Rampage.>>

<< While the members of the six, at Alycia's urging gather themselves to get to the hospital, Recall rides with Sally on the way to the hospital. Sally, who is a brave woman and a true fighter, has fluxed in and out of consciousness but holds on to a stable status as the paramedics continue their efforts. Prophet communicates with Vivica telepathically to learn where they are transporting Sally. A posh, well equipped, PRIVATE hospital, heavily subsidized by CI. That was a huge relief. Still, Black Widow placed an urgent call to Six reservists Shadow Weaver and Arsenal, requesting that they MEET her at the hospital to personally guard and protect Sally. They would be backed by CI soldiers of course, but with the realization that the Purifiers had more powerful technology at their disposal than intially thought, it was not unwise to have Karen and Michael on hand to protect Sally from any further attempts on her life, plus Karen herself was a doctor AND a healer. >>

<< In CASE the worst case scenario occurred and Sally did not survive the night, Alycia phones her assistant, Ana-Leigh and instructs her to electronically send her Her SPECTRA file. It contains Sally Spectra's personal documents, living will, power of attorney, advance directives and more. If the worst possible scenario does occurr, Alycia will make sure that no outsider is able to swoop in and capitalize on that. Nicolas and Alycia express strong desire to go to Sally, but Delilah counters, stating that now that the emerging enemy has ONE of it's targets and Cameron is the OTHER, they shouldn't put themselves out in the open like flying targets at a skeet shoot. Alycia and Nicolas only relent when Cameron explains that at the moment, they should not leave the relative safety of the Parthenon, reassuring them that Black Widow, Recall along with Shadow Weaver and Arsenal will be there with Sally until the official word on her condition is updated. >>

<< Those present in the conference room allow themselves to "settle"...waiting quietly for word from Haleigh on Sally's condition.>>



-----------------------------------


<< At the private hospital, things are harried, emotions run high. Sally is prepped for emergency surgery, while Vivica is taken to the triage. Vivica is largely unhurt, but her energy level is quite low from manifesting the deadliest aspect of her power, the synaptic blast. They stabilize her vitals and compell her to rest, while Haleigh monitor's the medical team's fast, smooth efforts regarding Sally Spectra.>>

<< TIME PASSES.>>


<< The Purifier who was taken to the Parthenon has been secured in "The Brig", a place below ground in the facility Cameron had constructed to accomodate the Six in various matters. She is still unconsciouss and suitably restrained, having had ALL of her paraphernelia removed from her person, she is seemingly quite helpless. or IS she?>>

----------------------------------

<< St. Patrick's Cathedral. Underground lair.>>

<< Sister Mary Justice stands, with her eyes firmly fixed on the monitor with the feed provided by the Nimrod component.>>

<< FLASH!>>

<< MOMENTS EARLIER>>

<< Cassandra Johnson struggles against the strain of the vibranium coils contricting her>>

Mary: Struggling is useless. Not even YOUR demonic powers can free you of their bind

Ruby: Who ARE you!? Why have you brought me here?!

Mary: SILENCE!

<< She SLAMS her golden whip across Cass' face. >>

Mary: BE SILENT in the house of the lord, you wretched creature! You are here by divine order. But that does not mean you have ANY right to speak to me as though I OWE YOU ANYTHING.

<< Mary turns back to the monitors. Her face tightens with anger at the sight of Vivica subduing Deborah. BUT....>>

Mary: His will...be done...

<< While it SEEMED as though Vivica had achieved a critical victory, it was STILL within the parameters of Mary's overall plan. She'd ALREADY "seen" this moment, thanks to Nimrod's data feed. Them rescuing FIREBIRD or even SALLY was fine, because she'd gotten what she REALLY wanted.>>

Mary: When Deborah revives, we have a live feed into the den of ill reput, the Parthenon.

<< She turns back to Cass, still holding golden whip>>

Mary: And now that we have THIS wretched creature in our grasp, we have eliminated yet ANOTHER one of the outcomes shown to us by the gift of visions.

Ruby: What are you talking about!? Are YOU responsible for the attack on Sally Spectra, my friends!?

Mary: << she looks down at the girl with cold contempt>> I have told you once....and will not do so again. << striking Cass once more with the whip>> BE SILENT!

<< Mary quick turns to the table, where she placed her energy baton. She take it in her hand and comes close to Cass. GRABBING the girl's head by her HAIR and forcing her to look up>>

Mary: Your every word is blasphemy. Your very existence is an abomination. I will tolerate NO MORE of your horrid noise, you genetic mishap.

<< the head of the energy baton is glowing with electric blue energy. crackling with power. Without a moment more of hesitation, Mary brings the baton to Cass's cheek and presses a button. It delievers a POWERFUL SPARK of energy that overwhelms Cass' neural senses and renders her unconscious.>>

Mary: Take this creature to the containment unit and place a power neutralizing collar on her. I have no wish to look at this filth a moment longer.

<< The Present>>

Mary: Deborah is one of my most devoted and resourceful sisters n this holy war. Just like her namesake in the bible, the judge, who moved with boldness and determination.

<< She slowly paces around the control room, as her two sentinel armored guards stand sentry>>

Mary: In her hour of darkness and despair, I pray that the lord will place his hand upon her and bring her peace and that she remember that his perfect love casts out ALL fear. Her journey is not at it's end. It is only beginning. THEY think they have the key to knowledge and understanding? FAR FROM IT!

<< Turning back to the Nimrod component, Mary looks grim but determined.>>

Sentry 1: Should we prepare the next group to attack at the hospital and finish off Spectra?

Mary: No, The others in that group are expecting that. The Black Widow has summoned reinforcements, The witch Shadow Weaver and the armored assassin Arsenal, to stand guard over and protect the woman from any further attack. Sally Spectra has served her purpose. Even if she survives, she will be down for a while in recovery and the trauma of her attack has already left it's mark on Firebird, not to mention reverberated through the rest of the Six. The trumpet of the lord has sounded and they have been FORCED to hear it.

Mary: It is time to prepare to capture the other creature, Cameron King, the one who bewitches people's minds with his demonic talents.

<< Looking at the screen, now with a view INSIDE THE PARTHENON, thanks to Deborah, Mary actually smirks>>

Mary: They think they are starting to regroup. All they are doing, is making HIM RIPE for the HARVEST.

-----------------------------------

<< At the Parthenon, several hours later, HALEIGH emerges via her personal transport device. She quietly informs them that Sally survived the surgery and is in stable condition. She will live. This would not have happened were it not for the quick and decisive actions of Vivica Lennox, a.k.a. Recall. >>

<< Each person in the room reacts in his or her own way. Blaze exclaims with emotion, RELIEF, as she and Alycia embrace. Even Ava, who normally is not one to show emotion, can be seen with a look of relief on her face. With regard to Sally's recovery and safety, Haleigh informs them that she's called in Arsenal and Shadow Weaver to personally guard and protect her and that Karen, who is a doctor/healer is the best qualified to ensure Sally's recovery as well. This will ALSO allow the Six to stay together, since now that Ruby has been taken and Prophet is another target, they need to rally around him. >>

<< As the Six take a few moments to process everything so far and Haleigh moves to seat herself, they will soon find that there is ONE MORE to join them, for this part of things at least...>>

 

[Arsenal]

No way it would last. Nope. Of COURSE not.

The last couple of months, Mike had lived THE LIFE. He would 'port into New York or Cali as needed and help Nicolas or Alycia with starting up the building and such. SOMETIMES Karen tagged along and hung out; sometimes she took some "Doc" time. Either way, he spent his days relaxing or working with loved ones. And training.

And now this. Mike took the call. Sally was shot. And so they sprang into action.

Now Mike was working with Clandestine (the ONLY pleasure in this) while in full battle armor, Madelyn slung over his shoulder. He could fell Nic lurking in the corner of his mind but it was fine; he knew that the kid was worried about Sally and the alternative to what he was doing was probably VERY undesirable.

The old gal came though surgery and now Doc was doing HER thing. Given her skills he half expected Sally to walk through the doors and grab his ass any moment. He had a rundown on the situation that had them at this place from Haleigh and he was analyzing it and applying it to their defense protocol. He spoke to the defense leader in charge.

We are going to need to be on alert for portals of any type. Any such portal will need to be aggressively answered and contained until assessed, weapons drawn. That could mean that members of the Six will be tentatively confronted until verified. I will take responsibility should anyone be upset by this new protocol.

Mike nodded as the new parameters were put in place. He went back in to check on Sally and Karen. He walked over and stood by Doc, who was watching over Sally.

Still solid Doc? Do you need anything?

 

[Black Widow]

Haleigh conferred with Audrey on the situation as her people began to put the bodies in bags and use halon fire extinguishers on the burning remains of the limo.

Mirage: Looks like the responders are part of NYPD' s mutant task force. I was concerned that flatscans would get here, but someone on the other end is as interested in keeping this quiet as WE are.

At the line, Haleigh asked one of the responding officers for his badge. She checked the databases. 'X-unit', it was called.

"Yeah, I've heard of it. Zach has mentioned that he has a connection in that department.... her name starts with a V......Valerie? Something like that. Whatever, if they want to get in on this, work with 'em, I guess. Less for us to deal with. I just don't want any of our names on the police reports, okay?"

Mirage: Wilco, Director. I was thinking we'd call it a D.W.I.... say the chopper was life flight, IF anyone even picked up on it. Bandolier really nailed the stealth mods on our Blackhawks.

"Whatever you think is best. Play nice with the locals, okay, we might need them again later--"

Paramedic: Director, we've got to get Miss Spectra to Surgery. Do you want to ride with us?

"Yes, I'm coming."

She hopped in, sharing a look with Vivica, then putting her hand gently on Viv's shoulder.

"You saved her Viv..... and probably Blaze as well. Don't worry about CJ. I'll get her back."

Oracle>>Recall, Firebird is safe. She’s with the Six. Take care of yourself, and keep us updated on Sally. Good work out there.

Someone came in through Vivica's com link, and of course Haleigh could hear it. She raised an eyebrow. That didn't sound like Ice, and Haleigh was pretty sure Vivica's Sergeant was a dude. Haleigh was about to ask when a new voice broke in.

Valkyrie>>Yeah and say hi to your BFF Black Widow for us –tell her we’re cleaning up HER mess as best we can.

"WHO THE FUCK IS THAT?!? Tell that bitch to go FUCK herself, I am NOT in the fucking mood!"

Sawbones: The f-bomb hat trick! It MUST be bad.

They'd landed on the helipad of Jasper's practice. He walked quickly with them as the paramedics briefed him on Sally's condition. Two stabs and a bullet? It was a walk in the park for him. They disconnected Vivica from Sally, hooked Sally up to an IV, and ushered Vivica to triage.

Haleigh took a moment to call in Karen and Mike to watch over Sally personally so she could return Parthenon and check on her sister and Blaze. She watched Jazz work, meeting with Sentry to ensure that security was beefed up.

Karen and Mike arrived as Sawbones was closing Sally up. He came out with a winning smile. He gave Haleigh a run down of Sally's prognosis and gave Karen the all-clear.

Haleigh left, getting Vivica released from triage, texting the group to make sure they'd authorize her entry to the small conference room, then appearing. Both her and Vivica looked ragged and blood stained.

"Sally is going to make it, thanks largely to Vivica's quick thinking. She made it possible for us to get Sally to surgery."

She poured herself a glass FULL of scotch and sunk heavily into a leather chair, glancing at her sister before getting right down to business.

"You okay? How about Blaze? I heard we have a captive. I want to interrogate her ASAP. CJ's life may depend on it."

 

[Prophet]

The Parthenon - Conference Room

Delilah: “My darling Cam, you will ALWAYS win Most Dramatic Person in a Conference Room, so don’t you worry a thing. But who died and put you in charge – is it Morgan? PLEASE tell me it’s Morgan. She’s in desperate need of a close encounter with a beast from a hell dimension.”

Cameron had to bite his tongue a bit. As righteously INDIGNANT as she was being lately, he couldn't help but find her a BIT amusing..a thought he was VERY sure to keep to himself.

"Nobody has died...yet...and well, I don't see anybody ELSE standing up to do the job."

Nicolas was the first to go against Cameron's warning that whatever had captured Cassandra was now after him. Not that he could BLAME Nicolas for wanting to go help Sally but sometimes Nicolas had a tendency to act before thinking. Cameron didn't even get a CHANCE to explain what Alison had told him before Ava got the phone call from Haleigh and both Ava and Nicolas dissappeared. Cameron pressed his fingers against the bridge of his nose.

Nicolas: I will watch Ava's back. Do NOT try to stop me.

:: Alycia stared at Cameron intently::

IS THERE SOMETHING YOU WANTED TO TELL ME BEFORE NOW!?

:: SHE "SHOUTED" at him via their psychic rapport, when suddenly::

Cameron sighed.

"Well...there WAS a reason I had called you all here..."

Both Alycia and Delilah were incredibly concerned with Sally Spectra as was Cameron but to be honest, while Alison had named Cassandra and Cameron in her vision, she had been pretty vague about the other details. He didn't mind Ava leaving on her own. She was incredibly capable...as were the people she was going to. He didn't even necessarily mind Nicolas going...but he COULDN'T have everybody running over and doing whatever they damn well pleased out of fear.

Cameron motioned for them to calm down for a moment as Delilah sealed the room SHUT and walked over to him, which was a comforting sign to him that although Delilah hadn't been herself lately...she still cared about him and would protect him. Alycia seemed more pissed OFF at him than anything.

:: Alycia started to object, but Nicolas impulsively shunts himself across the astral plane to where Ava and the others are now::

We can't continue to just REACT. We need to get to the hospital where Sally is being taken, PROTECT HER and the staff to make sure they can SAVE her and ...

:: Glaring at Cameron::

Find out just WHO is behind all this.


:: Nicolas and Ava RETURNED, with a shaken Firebird. THANKFULLY, Ava had used her elemental powers to counteract the effects of the cryo-beam. Firebird had expended an INCREDIBLE amount of her energy and firepower in the struggle against that beam. it was a MIRACLE she had survived, but now thanks to Ava, she was out of physical danger and already lucid, thanks to Nicolas' neural jumpstart::

Cameron was relieved to see Blaze was safe as Nicolas laid her down on the large conference table.

Blaze: "VIVICA..CASS...SALLY! Sally...It's all my fault!"

He moved forward in an attempt to grab her hand and temper her emotion with his own empathy but before he could Alycia had seemingly taken care of it with an impressive pressure point technique.

Delilah interjected on Cameron's behalf about the group going to be with Vivica and Sally.

Delilah: “Wait a second – let’s think about this. No one wants to make sure Sally’s alright more than I do, but Haleigh’s taking care of her. Cameron’s in danger too right now, and we can’t lead him right to whoever’s doing this.”

Cameron put his hand on her shoulder.

"Delilah is right. Blaze is here with us. Haleigh is on the job and so is Vivica...that might not comfort you but it sure as hell comforts me. As much as I want to be with Sally...we need to be smart..they've already captured one of us...fatally injured our friend and are making plans to capture me. Let's try and get SOME kind of victory today..."

[he moved towards the front of the Conference Room]

"But now that I have all of you HERE...We can TALK."

He sat in one of the chairs at the front of her room.

"Alison came to Ava earlier today with word of a vision."

Cameron shot a look at Delilah.

"Dee? Not a word."

[turning back to the group]

"She said a huge threat has been sweeping over the city the past few months, and will soon effect us directly. Obviously...it already HAS begun to effect us...She told Ava that i'm in danger. That she can't see whether I will live through this or not....She said that Cass and I will directly be effected by this...and that one of us....might not survive."

[Cameron stood]

"The reason she HASN'T been here is because she is attempting to help us by approaching another side. Apparently whatever is after us has somewhat of a precog on their side...which is how they were able to predict our movements. She is looking into eliminating that threat for us.."

Cameron didn't want to say that the more pressing reason that Alison was not with them was that she didn't want to be anywhere NEAR Delilah and that she was afraid of not being able to intervene, take Cameron and leave the entire situation.

"My sister knows what's she doing and she acted accordingly. We can't expect her to personally deliver everything she sees to us. She will appear when she is needed and when it is the right time to do so...For now..we need to wait until we hear from Haleigh. I know it sucks...but it's the safest thing...for ALL of us to do."

And so...they waited...for SEVERAL HOURS. Until...

Haleigh left, getting Vivica released from triage, texting the group to make sure they'd authorize her entry to the small conference room, then appearing. Both her and Vivica looked ragged and blood stained.

"Sally is going to make it, thanks largely to Vivica's quick thinking. She made it possible for us to get Sally to surgery."

She poured herself a glass FULL of scotch and sunk heavily into a leather chair, glancing at her sister before getting right down to business.

"You okay? How about Blaze? I heard we have a captive. I want to interrogate her ASAP. CJ's life may depend on it."

"Vivica! Haleigh! Thank God!"

As Haleigh prepared herself a rather large drink, Cameron ran over to Vivica's who's hands were still covered with the dry blood of Sally Spectra and gave her a WARM and BIG hug.

"Thank You...for everything. Thank you thank you thank you..."

Haleigh: "You okay? How about Blaze? I heard we have a captive. I want to interrogate her ASAP. CJ's life may depend on it."

"She's down in the sub basement levels...one of the interrogation chambers. Do your WORST."

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Elsewhere in NY, Private hospital

<< Shadow Weaver and Arsenal arrived in record time, thanks to one of Shadow Weaver's spells.>>

<< The doctor's previous experience with Clandestine Inc, as a CLIENT, was what allowed her her to have respect and appreciation for the agency, even IF she had locked horns with it's owner many times through the years once THEY became personally acquainted.>>

<< She was in her current costume and while Michael coordinated with the defense team, Karen immediately went to the observation room to find out from Haleigh more details about what happened to Sally, Blaze, Cass and Vivica. Haleigh assured Karen that Blaze was fine, that she'd been saved by Vivica and Persephone and that Sally was in the BEST possible hands right now.>>

<< When Haleigh gave Karen the all clear on Sally, she exhaled with emotional relief as she hugged Michael.>>

<< There was one last thing, before Haleigh left...>>

Haleigh, Blaze is my daughter...of COURSE I will stay here with Sally and protect her from any possible further attacks, but...I ask that you PLEASE make sure she is okay. She loves Sally. They have a special friendship and this attack on Sally has had a TERRIBLE impact on her. I can sense it...even now, all the way here.

<< Haleigh assures Karen she will do that. The doctor squeezes her hand and looks at her, in silent thanks. They'd had a moment like this...YEARS EARLIER when they first met and Karen contracted Haleigh and her agency to PROTECT HER from Christopher Victory. They'd had quite a journey between them since then, but things were in a solid, stable place between them these days.>>

<< Haleigh departed. Leaving Karen and Michael, along with a group CI soldiers and support staff.>>

<< Karen went to see Sally. Her first act was to cast a cosmetic healing spell to remove all surface scars from surgery. the spell would be "time released", so as her body healed and her skin settled, it would be restored to pre-surgery vitality.>>

<< Time passed and Karen was once again sitting in Sally's room, by her bed side. It was dark, save for the monitors and other machines and the humming/whirring of power. Karen was holding Sally's hand.>>

Rest well, Dear Sally. You're safe. I promise you.

<< Karen said quietly as she thought about everything Haleigh told her. The scene at XS. The more she thought about it, the more it HORRIFIED her.>>

He went back in to check on Sally and Karen. He walked over and stood by Doc, who was watching over Sally.

Still solid Doc? Do you need anything?

<< Karen tucked some of her blonde hair behind her ear as she looked over to Michael. She was still holding Sally's hand.>>

She's as well as can be expected. The doctor who performed the surgery...he had the steadiest hand I've ever seen...and his technique was almost...ROBOTIC in precision.

And thank the goddess for Vivica. That brave girl. She gave Sally her fighting chance to survive!

Sally's a strong woman, Michael. She may be merely mortal, but her SOUL is strong. I can sense it even now. She WANTS to come back to us. I've already cast a spell over her body to EASE it's agitation as it heals more smoothly and progressively. I'm keeping her and the environment around her as comfortable as I can.

<< She paused for a moment>>

Michael, Blaze...she's in a bad way. The attack on Sally really shook her up and it's sent a shockwave through the reset of the Six. The people behind this...they knew what they were doing....and I'm sure they're not finished yet.

<< She looked at Sally, thinking of Blaze too.>>

WOE be unto them if they should come here.

<< And that's ALL Shadow Weaver had to say about THAT.>>

 

[Recall]

A break in the storm...

Everything seemed to be moving in slow motion for Vivica. The use of her most deadly attack had left her feeling incredibly drained. Even though sirens were blaring around her in one of the noisiest cities in the world all Vivica could hear were the beating of her own heart and her baited breath. She held on to Sally's hand very tight, impressed with the incredible will she had. Most women her age with these kind of wounds would be DEAD...but Sally had definitely shown that she was made of stronger stuff. She focused on Sally as she began to rock back and forthe a little bit. Vivica had seen a lot in the field during her time in Europe with Clandestine but those had been strangers...they had been VERY bad people...not a vivacious and kind woman like Sally. The Purifiers were getting far more aggressive and they were now making direct attacks against The Six which left Vivica, Ashley and Zizi a FRACTION of the time they had in order to figure out what Dominique's involvement with them was.

Vivica was JOLTED back into reality at the sound of Haleigh's voice.

Haleigh: "Sally? Sally! You're going to be fine. I'm well experienced in battlefield medicine and you're doing great..... but you've lost a lot of blood. Can you tell me your blood type?"

Sally was conscious but still incredibly weak.

Sally: AB positive.

Haleigh: Good, that's good! You're a universal recipient."

Vivica's face was expressionless as she looked at Haleigh curiously for a moment. She was still a little bit in shock. She spoke to Haleigh as her eyes seemed a little glossed over for a moment.

"I..there..she..I compressed her wounds...cleared her airways...the bullet is still inside but it missed her spinal chord...She's functional...she's...alive.."

She heard the sounds of a chopper in the air as finally became aware fully of her surroundings.

"Dammit!"

Vivica had alerted Clandestine because she was in a bad way and she wasn't sure if Oracle had reached Ashley in time to ensure that the police force arriving would be the 'right' kind. But as Vivica looked over, she realized that she had given the Purifier she had knocked out to Ava who was now gone. Hopefully...Oracle would be able to tap into security at The Parthenon. If they couldn't be the ones to interrogate her, they STILL needed to know what she knew.

Haleigh: "Fuck...Vivica give me your arm."

She looked over at what Haleigh was doing before simply nodding and stretching her arm out towards Black Widow. Vivica had never been scared of needles or doing things in an unorthodox fashion to get the job done, she simply complied in this situation.

Soon, Audrey and her team were on the scene as they began to set up a safety perimeter under the guise of the FBI. Vivica was relieved that the scene would not be compromised. She was finally in the home stretch..and for a few minutes she didn't think she would be walking out of that one.

Woman: We'll take it from here, Director. Recall, brief me on her condition.

As Recall briefed her comrade on the situation that transpired soon Haleigh and Audrey were with her and hopping on the helicopter to head to the medical facility. Zizi's voice soon filled her com link.

Oracle >>> "Recall, Firebird is safe. She's with the Six. Take care of yourself, and keep us updated on Sally. Good work out there."

"Shit."

Valkyrie: >>> "Yeah and say hi to your BFF Black Widow for us - tell her we’re cleaning up HER mess as best we can."

"Thanks Ash.."

Vivica shut off her livestream with Oracle as Haleigh flipped her shit for a second.

Haleigh: "WHO THE FUCK IS THAT?!? Tell that bitch to go FUCK herself, I am NOT in the fucking mood!"

"A contact of mine inside NYPD...She made contact once the police were alerted."

Vivica wasn't worried about Haleigh figuring out she was working with Oracle and Valkyrie. Zach was in the know, but she still felt the need to protect her new coleagues. Once they were at the medical facility, everything went by incredibly fast as Sawbones gave Vivica a warm hug before looking at Haleigh.

Sawbones: "The f-bomb hat trick! It MUST be bad."

She returned Jasper's hug warmly. He had been the head of the medical team that worked with Oracle in order to fix Vivica when she returned to New York.

Sawbones: "Hey, Recall. You look like hell..Let's get you to triage..."

After she was led into triage and treated, Vivica began to center herself, and take stock of the things she knew. The Purifiers were EXTREMELY well funded and FAR more organized than she had originally thought. They weren't a grassroots organization...and whoever their LEADER was...she seemed to have intimate details on members of The Six. Thankfully however, they didn't have many details on HER. This could also be one of the reasons Dominique was dispatching them. They might have something on her that she DIDN'T want to get out...but the fact that The Purifiers were now specifically targeting members of The Six..her mind couldn't help but wander back to The Hellfire Club. It could all be a giant rouse. Dominique appearing to fight against them while they worked together to dispatch The Six. They needed more information.

Haleigh arrived and got her cleared to leave as the two of them made their way back to The Parthenon, Vivica still covered with an astonishing amount of dried blood up to her elbows and staining her once crisp white tank top.

Vivica: Vivica! Haleigh! Thank God!

Her oldest friend ran over to her, scooping her into a rather large hug.

Cameron: "Thank You...for everything. Thank you thank you thank you..."

She squeezed him tight before her eyes turned to Blaze who looked worse for the wear. She kissed Cameron on the lips as she made her way past the others and over to Blaze who she scooped into her arms and held her tight, feeling a little emotional. She whispered in the fire elemental's ear.

"You don't know how good it is to see you, B...I was worried for a moment."

She brushed some hair out of Blaze's face as she kissed her warmly and deeply on the lips. It was a rather brazen display of affection but Vivica didn't care. She was just happy that Blaze and Sally were okay. Haleigh and Cameron spoke about interrogating the Purifier in the basement. Vivica nodded in approval.

"Use as much force as necessary...she's lucky I didn't render her deaf dumb and comatose!"

 

[Harbinger]

The Conference room

When Alison arrives at her destination, she will find a wad of paper from the trash balled into the shape of a rune. Once opened, the paper had a message.

Loved our time together. Returning the rune as promised. Call me. XOXO

555-1212.

OOOHHH!

:: She pursed her lips::

:: The precog narrowed her colbalt blue eyes, CRUSHING the paper in her hand, but not destroying it. No, she'd keep it and use it, to scry for the wretched greased lightning so she could deal with him most VIOLENTLY. He was so smug! But he BARELY got away with it this time, NEXT TIME would be an entirely DIFFERENT story for sure. ::

:: AND if he was brazen enough to go back to Bell,Book & Candle, she would know of it, and be there WAITING for him.::

:: For now though, she other matters to attend to. Back inside of Persephone's penthouse apartment, she noticed that Ava wasn't there and apparently hadn't been for a while.::

:: Alison took a moment to decompress. The speedster was the ANAMOLY she saw moving FAST across immediate time threads. She understoodthat now. So THATtook away his element of surprise. But WHO was he? WHY was he there? ::

:: She would take time to "search" for him as only she could, but right now? She felt an URGENT need to just stop and "look out" to see what had occurred around her in the last several hours up to the present.::

:: she stands still, her eyes turn solid white and her powers as a "seer" activate as she "looks" and sees...::

::FLASH!::

Sally Spectra getting stabbed and SHOT; Firebird, Ruby and RECALL(!?) coming to Sally's aid; Ruby getting CAPTURED; The rest of the Six down below in a conference room; Silver Swan arriving in to town and battling another group just like the one who attacked Sally; Black Widow and Recall saving Sally's life and getting her to a private hospital;

SHE SURVIVED

:: Alison exclaims in her own mind::

Oh thank the goddess!

Persephone and Recall saved Firebird; Persephone revived Firebird; A "PURIFIER" has been captured; Shadow Weaver and Arsenal are with Sally; Black Widow has returned...

NO!

They brought that woman...HERE!?

::Alison's eyes return to their normal look as she shouts with astonishment even though no one was present to hear her. ::

:: She holds her hand up and her TIME STAFF appears in it's grasp in a flurry of blue/black orbs::

They don't know what's COMING!

:: She BLINKS OUT of Persephone's penthouse. Delilah be DAMNED. If that woman got in her way tonight? She wouldn't LIVE long enough to say "OW!"::

She poured herself a glass FULL of scotch and sunk heavily into a leather chair, glancing at her sister before getting right down to business.

"You okay? How about Blaze? I heard we have a captive. I want to interrogate her ASAP. CJ's life may depend on it."

"She's down in the sub basement levels...one of the interrogation chambers. Do your WORST."

"Use as much force as necessary...she's lucky I didn't render her deaf dumb and comatose!"

No. She was COUNTING on you not doing that.

:: Harbinger's voice was HEARD before she BLINKED IN. Standing there, holding her time staff. She looks at them all, even Delilah, silently DARING HER to try something just now::

:: She returns her gaze to Cameron::

Cameron, Do not try to interfere with what I am about to do. Your life...the lives of everyone in this room, the security of this place DEPENDS on you NOT pulling a "DELILAH". I have to take this action and I have to take it now. Turn on the security monitors in this room. Watch from the safety of here.

::speaking to the others::

Vivica, that woman...that purifier that you subdued...did you notice that it took LONGER for your synaptic blast to accomplish it's effect, even though you unleashed it against a normal, unprotected BASE LINE HUMAN brain?

:: Looking to Haleigh::

You can't go near her. If you do...you will be overwhelmed by the TRAP that lies within her, a trap that will cause YOU to lose control of your techno organic power and unleash an OUTBREAK into this hotel!

:: Looking to Ava and Cameron::

Everything these two have told all of you is correct. And now, I must take action. If you value your lives, STAY WHERE YOU ARE until I am finished. For any of you stupid enough to challenge me, I will take NO responsibility for what happens to you because of that foolish MISTAKE.

:: She gave them a moment to process this and if they had anything to say, now was the time, but that "TIME" was going to be short::

 

[Orion]

Rose's Rooftop

Sharon: That still doesn't explain how you knew to find me HERE. This is a safe haven, Zachary, for MUTANT children. Alycia and I have been involved with it...since LONG before either one of us changed into who/what we are today.

"Yes, I know, I took over for Alycia when she 'retired'. I recognized The building when I saw you land here on the video feed at the Clocktower. I've been making SURE Rose gets her funding."

Sharon: Oh you were "a bit upset" INDEED. Your relationship with Haleigh was put asunder because she and YOU allowed it. OUR [gesturing between herself and Zach] relationship had already shifted, CHANGED by the time you were involved with her. I'm not going to apologize for my life to someone who I didn't even KNOW [Haleigh] at that time and I'm NOT going to stand in the gap for a man who was obviously too FRAZZLED to handle his own business.

He was a bit surprised her reaction, and ran his fingers through his hair. Her adrenaline was still up from the fight, perhaps THAT was why she feeling a little confrontational.

"Sharon..... I'm not ASKING you to apologize, I didn't come here to argue. I'm a big boy, I KNOW what happened and I'm not afraid to take responsibility for my part in it. I was just trying to be honest with you. I was hoping we could go back to being friends now that the dust has settled."

Don't forget...I didn't ASK to come back...as THIS. I had DIED. I died trying to help my FRIENDS- Morgan and Alycia-when the Master Mold exploded out of no where, I died standing by the mutants I always stood by and based my career as a senator, fighting for their rights.

"How COULD I forget, Sharon? Your death was hard for me and everyone ELSE, Haleigh included, and I had to deal with ALL that emotion on top of MY OWN grief, plus Morgan's death as well, it was a pretty difficult time, I don't think you appreciate that."

Sharon: I would think you would have realized that due to the unusual circumstances [ Her return as the Silver Swan and her initial programming] that NOTHING was a sure thing until The Six were able to help MITIGATE those circumstances.

"I would think YOU would have realized that those 'circumstances' were as unexpected and confusing and difficult and emotional for the REST OF US as it was for you. We were ALL doing the best we could."

Sharon: (flatly) If you say so.

Zach was genuinely perplexed. Despite his empathic abilities, women could be an absolute mystery sometimes.

"The last thing I want is to frustrate you, like I said, I had hoped we could come to an amicable understanding."

Sharon: Haleigh and I have reached a new place in OUR dynamic, in case you were wondering, so there's no need for you to act like dealing with me NOW is some controversy or secret.

(Giving a short, somewhat incredulous laugh) "I learned my lesson, Sharon. Now I'm a forthright kind of guy. I don't intend on keeping this a secret and I'm not planning anything untoward."

Sharon: Thank you. It's nice...to be seen again. And yes I have recovered. Thanks to support from the Six and the Amazons.

"Well, I'm sure a lot of it had to do with your inner strength, Sharon. Don't forget to give yourself some of that credit. You've always been stronger than you're willing to acknowledge."

Sharon: I'm...not sure what's keeping Rose. But then again, she wasn't expecting me yet. I'm waiting up HERE to avoid being seen by anyone on the ground. So...what is it that you wanted my help with? I'm here because Alycia needs help protecting Rose. She's being harrassed, by a group of people...threatened even! And the police don't CARE!

"That's kind of what I wanted to talk to you about. I'm working with people who DO CARE about this situation, and we could really benefit from your help. We're trying to put a team together to tackle this problem before it gets out of control."

 

[Silver Swan]

Rose's rooftop

I'm sorry, Zachary.

My aggression is alot HIGHER than it was before. My TEMPER is a bit...quicker

[ Even though she was a regular FIREBRAND as a senator both in her home state and on capitol hill]

It's a byproduct...of who ..WHAT I am now.

I have no ill will toward you. Before I died, I had no ill will toward Haleigh.

They took me...they twisted me...perverted me...WARPED me and when they set me loose after Haleigh, I did TERRIBLE things. I hurt innocent people. I didn't WANT that. But I...was a PASSENGER in my own psyche!


[ Zachary was right. The Silver Swan HAD become rather complex. In the beginning, PARTS of Sharon Kelly managed to ring out amongst the CHAOS of the Silver Swan. It was as if two distinct personalities were battling for control. As time passed, with help from Nicolas, Morgan and Karen in particular, Sharon Kelly had reasserted herself but THEN as things began to happen, particularly after the Barbas caper; The savage instinct of the Silver Swan began to assert dominance, warping her perception and understanding of her own past, her present and posisble future. She became quite resentful. She lashed out at The Six, she became abusive, VIOLENT even. But just when it seemed that all her ties with them would be servered, SHARON was able to take back control and help to SAVE Haleigh from Viper. That was when it was clear that there was still a chance. Even Haleigh recognized that SHARON hadn't found "all of her pieces" yet since returning as this new being. This super powered mutate. When Sharon left Aerie that night, Haleigh watched her leave, bidding her farewell and hoping for her recovery and proper return.]

[ In the months that passed, Sharon received more help from the Amazons and also underwent exposure to their mysterious PURPLE RAY, which helped to REALIGN her mental and spiritual composure, allowing the silver swan to INTEGRATE into Sharon Kelly, with SHARON being in control of HERSELF and completely CLEAR from any lingering effects of psychic programming or a fractured psyche.]

Well, I'm sure a lot of it had to do with your inner strength, Sharon. Don't forget to give yourself some of that credit. You've always been stronger than you're willing to acknowledge.

[ She immersed herself in the ways and teachings of the amazons, much like she had immersed herself in matters of law when she became a senator. It was SHARON'S unwavering courage to explore, to see herself through her journey of understanding of who she was NOW that allowed her to reach the end. Even the Amazons said this and now, Zachary, who hadn't seen her SINCE her initial rampaging return, was echoing their sentiments]

Zachary...

[ She said in a softer voice]

There are moments, where I STILL can't believe I'm ALIVE....that I'm...

[ holds out her hands and arms, which are covered in adamantium armour]

THIS.

It has nothing to do with me "missing pieces of myself" like before. It's just this...reality that I am now living in. It has EVERYTHING to do that the people who took my son, murdered my husband; the people I made a CAREER of opposing, before they murdered ME, TURNED ME into this!

But yet, I can't help but think...If only I had this POWER when my son was alive...I could have PROTECTED him AND my husband from those monsters.

[Balling her hand into a fist]

It doesn't matter where I go, how much time passes...I'll NEVER....

[ She shuts her eyes tightly]

I'll NEVER be able to forget them [ her husband, her son....OR the people she killed during her initial rampage as the Silver Swan] ...or...forgive myself.

[ Shaking her head]

But from the Amazons, I learned, I understood that there are MANY who have done terrible things and yet still found the path to redemption.

I can't change what's happened. Nor can I let those things stop me from protecting those that I CAN NOW, NOR do I let it lead me to LASH OUT against those who I've cared for ...or who care for me. Not anymore.

"That's kind of what I wanted to talk to you about. I'm working with people who DO CARE about this situation, and we could really benefit from your help. We're trying to put a team together to tackle this problem before it gets out of control."

[ She looks over at Katie]

That little girl...she lost her whole family tonight because of those dispicable men. I gave TWO of them a quick death. the OTHER ONE I made SUFFER just as they'd made Katie suffer while chasing her through central park.

WHO are they? Are THEY ones harrassing Rose?!

[ Zachary wanted her help. He spoke of putting a team.]

What team is this?

...I'm a Six reservist. Suppose they need me to come their aid?

 

[MorningStar]

The Parthenon - Executive Board Room

She sat in a chair next to Cameron as everyone assembled in the conference room and tried to show how hard they were. But Delilah had one objective, and one only: to keep Cameron safe. She didn’t give a shit what anybody said, or what stupid place they wanted him to go to so he could get grabbed, or what Alison had freaking told him. And she certainly wasn’t leaving him alone so she could go watch some religious zealot spout scripture at them. So she sat there, one eye on the door and one on Cameron, nervously tapping one foot against the floor.

"Alison came to Ava earlier today with word of a vision. Dee? Not a word."

She gave him innocent eyes and made the motion of locking her lips with a key and throwing it away, while…

CUNT, that’s a word.

She looked directly at Cam, and smiled sweetly.

And then the C Word herself arrived – she must have heard her name.

Surprisingly, Alison actually told Vivica there was a danger to her rather than locking her in a suite upstairs; huh, she must be growing.

Everything these two have told all of you is correct. And now, I must take action. If you value your lives, STAY WHERE YOU ARE until I am finished. For any of you stupid enough to challenge me, I will take NO responsibility for what happens to you because of that foolish MISTAKE.

Oh, please. As if she didn’t know who that comment was directed towards.

Delilah gave her the bird.

Did Alison ever get tired of hearing herself talk? She rolled her eyes.

“Go do it already.”

 

[Firebird]

The Conference Room

Sometime had passed as she slept a bit more. The conference room was more like a suite and so after Alycia had put Blaze to sleep, Nicolas gently set her down in another area to rest while they continued to talk and eventually every settled in to wait on news of the fate of Sally Spectra.

Blaze eventually awakened and returned to the others...still looking weary but definitely more stable and centered now.

Oh Blaze! You're awake again...

The Amazon handed her a warm, moist cloth, allowing Blaze to wipe her face. Then she was handed a glass of water. She soon sat down on the side of the table with Ava, Cameron, Alycia and Nicolas, leaving Delilah on the other side.

Cameron briefed them on what Alison had told them. She felt detached a bit, like she was still in a dream, WATCHING HERSELF in that dream. What the hell was happening? Sally was wounded, Cassie was captured and now Cameron was next? They liked to pretend like Alison's visions were easily altered but that was hardly EVER the case.

She was thinking the same thing everyone else was, so there was no need to ask. They just waited. Finally...Haleigh arrives. Blaze POPS up out of her seat like a jack in the box and looks intently at Haleigh and Vivica.

Please....

"Sally is going to make it, thanks largely to Vivica's quick thinking. She made it possible for us to get Sally to surgery."

"Oh thank god!"

Blaze exclaims with a mix of emotion and relief as she and Alycia immediately embrace each other. Mere MOMENTS after that, Vivica made a bee-line for Blaze. Even though Viv and Alycia HATED each other, this was a moment where even THAT didn't matter.

her eyes turned to Blaze who looked worse for the wear. She kissed Cameron on the lips as she made her way past the others and over to Blaze who she scooped into her arms and held her tight, feeling a little emotional. She whispered in the fire elemental's ear.

"You don't know how good it is to see you, B...I was worried for a moment."

Blaze returned Vivica's embrace tightly. If she had anymore arms, she'd have wrapped those around Vivica too!

She brushed some hair out of Blaze's face as she kissed her warmly and deeply on the lips. It was a rather brazen display of affection but Vivica didn't care. She was just happy that Blaze and Sally were okay. Haleigh and Cameron spoke about interrogating the Purifier in the basement. Vivica nodded in approval.

After a moment of locking lips, in front of all of them

"Viv, you saved Sally's life...and mine too. I screwed up...I NEVER should have let Sally go outside those doors. But inspite of my mistake...you were there for us. Thank you."

She embraces Viv once again before everyone moves to be seated again.

She poured herself a glass FULL of scotch and sunk heavily into a leather chair, glancing at her sister before getting right down to business.

"You okay? How about Blaze?

"Only because of Ava and Vivica. That ...cryo beam that the purifier used on me...I didn't think that was...I didnt think it was HERE. The LAST time I was exposed to it, was when my father, used it on my in the Mystech lab, to try to test the upper limit of my fire power. It's one of the ONLY things that has been able to HURT ME or DRAIN me like that."

That was a key thing Blaze just said. Before now, the Six HADN'T seen a weapon like that. How did the PURIFIERS know to use that on Blaze and HOW did they come to have one? Cameron mentioned that Alison was dealing with this from the back end, that this group might have a PRECOG of some sort in their midst? If so, that would give them a deadly edge, but as far as Blaze was concerned, THE SIX had the best of the breed in thier midst. Harbinger had prooven time and again that she wouldn't be out maneuvered.

I heard we have a captive. I want to interrogate her ASAP. CJ's life may depend on it.

Blaze had killed two of the others while Cass killed the third. It made Blaze's face harden with anger to know that one of them SURVIVED but she wasn't about to interfere in Haleigh extracting the information of WHERE Cass was taken to. They needed to find out and fast. If Cass was hurt? There would be no end to what Firebird would BURN DOWN to make them pay. They already had it coming for what they did to SALLY!

Use as much force as necessary...she's lucky I didn't render her deaf dumb and comatose!"

No. She was COUNTING on you not doing that.

:: Harbinger's voice was HEARD before she BLINKED IN. Standing there, holding her time staff. She looks at them all, even Delilah, silently DARING HER to try something just now::

"Harbinger!"


Blaze notices Harbinger's withering glare at Delilah. Delilah was all kinds of piss and vinegar lately and to be honest, Blaze didn't even WANT her here right now, but this was a Six matter and it wasn't Blaze's call. But she hoped that Delilah WOULD keep her rude mouth shut.

::speaking to the others::

Vivica, that woman...that purifier that you subdued...did you notice that it took LONGER for your synaptic blast to accomplish it's effect, even though you unleashed it against a normal, unprotected BASE LINE HUMAN brain?

:: Looking to Haleigh::

You can't go near her. If you do...you will be overwhelmed by the TRAP that lies within her, a trap that will cause YOU to lose control of your techno organic power and unleash an OUTBREAK into this hotel!

:: Looking to Ava and Cameron::

Everything these two have told all of you is correct. And now, I must take action. If you value your lives, STAY WHERE YOU ARE until I am finished. For any of you stupid enough to challenge me, I will take NO responsibility for what happens to you because of that foolish MISTAKE.

:: She gave them a moment to process this and if they had anything to say, now was the time, but that "TIME" was going to be short::

Before Blaze could react....

Delilah gave her the bird.

Did Alison ever get tired of hearing herself talk? She rolled her eyes.

“Go do it already.”

Oh fuck THAT!

She was TIRED of Delilah acting like she could walk around taking massive dumps on everyone as she pleased.

"Could you just SHUT UP? NOTHING you say is of any use or help and You havent been around...for ANYTHING because you're a bitch who's mad at the world. If all you're going to do is sit here and be smug about everything, why dont you just LEAVE!? That IS why you came out here, ISN'T? to "GET AWAY" from us? well there's the DOOR!"

 

[Harbinger]

The Conference Room

:: It was only a matter of MOMENTS now::

Delilah gave her the bird.

Did Alison ever get tired of hearing herself talk? She rolled her eyes.

“Go do it already.”

:: Alison looked at Delilah and SMILED for a moment::

Could you just SHUT UP? NOTHING you say is of any use or help and You havent been around...for ANYTHING because you're a bitch who's mad at the world. If all you're going to do is sit here and be smug about everything, why dont you just LEAVE!? That IS why you came out here, ISN'T? to "GET AWAY" from us? well there's the DOOR!"

Oh it's okay Blaze. The little deranged tramp can't do anything else BUT say "fuck you". It's all she's good for. Fucking up her own life and now MAD because the rest of the world is moving on WITHOUT her.

Oh and just in case you FORGET yourself, little run away flashbulb? That is MY brother. This is HIS hotel. The one that he's giving you CHARITY by letting you stay in. HIS LIFE is at risk and these people have the DROP on THIS TEAM, the one that YOU have all but ABANDONNED because you're a selfish, stupid IDIOT, was about to be AMBUSHED by a trap THEY SET.

You're WEAK. You always have been and you always WILL BE. You're in NO place to protect MY brother, understand THAT? You can't even make decisions for YOURSELF without causing DISASTER for everyone around you.

I will protect him as I see fit. Interfer with that...in ANYWAY and you won't have to WORRY about your daughter any more because you'll be facing your AFTERLIFE.

THEY may tolerate you, THEY may tip toe around you...but I won't.

Now...say something ELSE. DO something else...so I can do what I shouldve done on AERIE!

:: Alison takes a BATTLE READY STANCE with her time staff.::

 

[Prophet]

The Parthenon - Conference Room

"Okay....knock it the fuck OFF. ALL three of you!"

Cameron cocked an eyebrow as inserted himself in between Delilah and Alison as he cast a stern look at his sister as well as Blaze and then finally settling on Delilah.

"In case you forgot? We have a teammate that has been captured by a group of people that nearly killed Sally AND Blaze, and you three want to trade INSULTS?!"

He SLAMMED his hand down on the table.

"Knock it OFF. Once we have Cassandra back and once you stop this bitch downstairs from unleashing hell you can ALL beat the shit out of each other how you see fit...but NOW?! NOW is not the time or the place and we don't have the time."

He looked at the three of them...incredibly dissappointed. After what Blaze had just went through she REALLY thought that now was the best time to bring something like this up? And his sister...much as he appreciated her was BEGGING for Delilah to say something from the minute she manifested in the room.

"Alison....Go...please!"

He held his hand up.

 

[Black Widow]

Cameron: She's down in the sub basement levels...one of the interrogation chambers. Do your WORST.

"I don't think anyone's ready for my worst."

Vivica: Use as much force as necessary...she's lucky I didn't render her deaf dumb and comatose!

Alison: No. She was COUNTING on you not doing that.

"She may have been counting on it, but that didn't mean she's prepared for what's about to happen."

Alison: You can't go near her.

"The HELL I can't! I'm gonna rip her fingernails off one-by-one and stick them into her fucking forehead!"

Alison: If you do...you will be overwhelmed by the TRAP that lies within her, a trap that will cause YOU to lose control of your techno organic power and unleash an OUTBREAK into this hotel!

(Pointing to Ava) "okay, YOU'RE going to rip her her fingernails off--"

Alison: Everything these two have told all of you is correct. And now, I must take action. If you value your lives, STAY WHERE YOU ARE until I am finished. For any of you stupid enough to challenge me, I will take NO responsibility for what happens to you because of that foolish MISTAKE.

Delilah(giving Alison the finger): Go do it already.

Okay, a little hostile, but she's controlling herself still, I'm sure.

Blaze: Could you just SHUT UP? NOTHING you say is of any use or help and You havent been around...for ANYTHING because you're a bitch who's mad at the world. If all you're going to do is sit here and be smug about everything, why dont you just LEAVE!? That IS why you came out here, ISN'T? to "GET AWAY" from us? well there's the DOOR!

"Whoa, Blaze!"

Alison: Oh it's okay Blaze.

Oh good, she'll help de-escalate....

And then Alison launched a volley of insults, a full-on nuclear shock-and-awe campaign.

"ALISON, WHAT THE FUCK?!?!"

She stood so quickly, her chair rolled back and hit the wall. Cameron jumped in the way, and Haleigh was right there to back him up.

Cameron: Knock it OFF. Once we have Cassandra back and once you stop this bitch downstairs from unleashing hell you can ALL beat the shit out of each other how you see fit...but NOW?! NOW is not the time or the place and we don't have the time.

"FUCKING SERIOUSLY. That kid is COUNTING ON US to save her fucking life, and instead, we're helping THE FUCKING PURIFIERS by tearing each other down?"

(Turning and pointing at Blaze) "YOU! You're upset and stressed out, and that's understandable, but taking it out on your TEAM MATES? NOT acceptable. Now SIT DOWN and REST. And if you don't have anything NICE TO SAY, kindly shut the FUCK UP!"

(Turning on Alison with a look of shocked disapproval) "AND YOU! I love you and i appreciate you coming here to help but You are NOT HELPING RIGHT NOW! HOW FUCKING DARE YOU?! Delilah is NOT 'weak', and if I ever hear you say something like that again-- about ANYBODY in this room, I will fucking DROPKICK you on the SPOT, see if I DON'T!"

Cameron:Alison....Go...please.

(Turning to Delilah) "and you! Enough with the antagonistic behavior, okay? Keep your dirty looks and shit to your self. We KNOW you're upset, but you are egging them on, don't think I can't see that. I fucking INVENTED THAT SHIT, so get it under control and save it for the ACTUAL COCKSUCKERS that deserve it!"

 

[Rampage]

And THIS is why Nicolas loved Haleigh so much. Finally speaking up, he backed her play.

Let's focus on the task at hand and no other. Haleigh is right and for the foreseeable future, she needs to take point as leader of the team. Cam is a target and of the remaining senior members, Haleigh is the most trusted by everyone and has the best working relationship with the person we are relying on in Alison. Now that she has everyone's attention, let's try to take the initiative. Lead the way Hales.

Nicolas went silent verbally, but he had someone else on his mind. Someone he 'spoke' to. He was doing his own digging, hoping to find someone he could kill to get this over with.

Aunt D...one of these Purifier fuckers stabbed Sally Spectra twice and shot her. She will make it but this has become personal. Apparently all of the Six has been targeted, Cameron and Cassandra in particular. If there is something you know that can help us, I would appreciate leave to reveal it to my team. I can not mention you if you prefer.