Casualties of the nightmare

[Seer]

Grammie's manor

<< as Spellbinder and Firebird stalked the halls of the dark manor, the storm outside was almost "tame" compared to the dread felt inside the home.>>

<< the sisters found themselves standing midway in the hall when they heard foot falls coming up the stairs behind them! as the turn to see...they are seemingly confronted by Verna..."Grammie" herself. but as Morgan calls out to her, Grammie rushes past her. She is wearing her OWN variation of a witch's "flying suit" and she looks grim with urgency.>>

<< as she makes her way down the hall, she looks back...seemingly at the sisters but not really. Morgan realizes this is either a temporal phantom or they have some how traveled back in time courtesy of her spell even though its not what she wanted to do.>>

<< they soon follow, coming to the door and find Verna in a large room, a little girl's room...where a small blonde girl cries with fear and pain on her bed. Verna bursts in...and gestures ala' Prue Halliwell, sending the horribly burned man up in the air, spinning around violently before hurling into a wall and then falling to the floor.>>

Karen: Grammie!!! << she cries...her face conrtorted with fear.>>

Verna: << hugging Karen as she gets her off the bed.>> I know baby...grammie's here. Now remember what I said...you run! you get out of here...go to Nancy ( a close friend of Grammie's and a practicing witch in their coven - was down stairs..hiding via a cloaking spell, waiting to spirit Karen out of the house while Grammie battled Barbas no holds barred...just like HECATE when she sent Persephone away that night.) she will keep you safe until I am finished here!

<< Barbas calls for Karen...and Verna speaks over him.>>

Verna: Don't look at him...don't listen! Do as grammie says...and RUN!



<< Morgan and Blaze realize the little girl is KAREN! She's bruised from being assaulted by Barbas and Barbas looks as insane and predatory as ever! It's still unclear when (date) this is...but obviously its back in the early 60's. Clearly Morgan and Blaze have traveled back in time, and yet, they cannot be seen by Grammie or Karen...but BARBAS , as he looks up at Grammie, takes a moment to look beyond her...at THEM.>>

<< Little Karen is afraid...for herself and her grammie, but as Grammie orders her to run...Karen takes a few hesitant steps and then flees...running right past her GROWN daughter and Blaze.>>

meanwhile

<< those who remain in MP have begun to settle and do what they can to be comfortable yet stay awake. Sharon, who lives next door to Mike, goes over to see about them. After all, they'd been attacked by one of the Six's most deadly foes, even if it was just a dream manifestation and she knew Karen was hurting over Arielle's loss. She soon joins Karen and Mike for coffee and quiet conversation while Alison and Delilah enjoy some tea and conversation. Morgan and Blaze's sudden disappearence didnt register as an abduction to Alison or Karen and so, neither one was alarmed...not YET anyway. unknown to Haleigh and Nicolas, who are both at the Roosevelt...Alison is now keeping tabs on THEM. a pair of floating cobalt eyes observes Nicolas...with utter disdain and disappointment as he engages Claudia in what they have both wanted all along.>>

 

[Siren]

Nicolas: Remember when we first met?

"Vaguely."

Claudia answered with disinterest. A blatant lie on her behalf [because of her powers], but what was the fun in having Nicolas think he was worth remembering? It would only inflate his already large ego.....and that elevator only had enough room for Claudia's ego.

Nicolas: Nothing so far has changed my mind, even your BADNESS.

"Oh really?"

Nicolas: And so...

He came in quickly, swooping Claudia up into his arms like she weighed nothing. Crushing her lips against his, she wrapped her legs around his hips to secure herself. It was a tantalizing kiss with an underlining hint of need on BOTH their parts. The elevator doors opened a couple of floors below Claudia's original destination. Breaking the heated kiss, Claudia's breath was slightly labored as she looked at Nicolas.

"You have no idea what you're getting yourself into."

Unwrapping her legs, Claudia 'hopped' down out of Nicolas' grasp, taking his hand and leading him out of the elevator with a grin. If he wanted to get his mind off his obnoxious friends, Claudia would MORE than happy to help.

 

[Firebird]

Gram's manor

Just watching Morgan hurl the picture frame down onto the polished wooden floors excited Blaze, who grinned largely.

"There we go! Now, he can cry a river."

Blaze winked, happy to see Morgan getting out her anger in a healthier way than turning into Darkchilde. Unlike mainstream Blaze, alternate Blaze wanted to prevent that any chance she could. She preferred the land of the living.

I'm sorceress supreme! There's no reason why I can't contact my grammie and i don't need the help of some arrogant telepath to do it! The darkhold has been passed down my blood line since Hecate's time. all the hopes, the accomplishments, the efforts of the witches from then till now are here.

Now, close your eyes, and remain quiet and meditative while I call for Grammie!


Verna Eckert... Blood of my Blood
my great grandmother,
I Summon Thee
Beloved spirit,
we seek your guidance.
We ask that you commune
with us and move among us.

Nodding along, Blaze shut her eyes and remained quiet as Morgan concentrated on calling for Grammie. The Darkhold would begin to flip open wildly as a stream of air blew across Morgan's apartment. Opening her eyes, Blaze could feel the apartment shaking.

"I thought you said you knew what you were doing!"

Blaze quipped as she reached out for Morgan, something that was instinct for the mutant to do.

Something's WRONG! HOLD ON!

"Morgan!"

Was all Blaze could muster as they were whisked away in a blinding white light, taking them to another destination. The ceiling would open and both women dropped down with a thud. Blaze looked around to see the same manor she saw in Limbo. Taking her sister's hand to get up as screams reverberated around them.

"This is what I saw in Limbo!"

Noticing the photograph too to see Karen and Grammie as well as hearing a petrified scream. Bolting with Morgan for the stairs, "I'm right behind you." Just as both began to ascend the stairs the house shakes and trembles from an earthquake! Grabbing onto the railing for support with Morgan's hand, avoiding a few on falling picture frames of family members that crash loudly to the stairwell.

stay with me, Firebird...

A small flashback hit Blaze who was back in the hospital room surrounded by doctors after her near fatal car accident. Morgan's voice filled the air 'Stay with me.' It was almost deja-vu for the mutant who trudged up the stairs with her sister. Walking hand-in-hand together down the lengthy hallway, wary of danger at every corner.

Hearing the footfalls from behind, Blaze glances back prepared to blast a demon if need be. But seeing Verna walking towards them Blaze relaxed some. The older woman seemed non responsive even with Morgan calling out to her.

Following Verna inside a little girl's room to see a small blonde girl who held a striking resemblance to Morgan as a child. Blaze knew it was Karen from her previous encounter in Limbo. The badly burned demon was hurled through the air, something she'd witnessed from Alison.

"Very cool."

Blaze whispered under her breath, watching these events unfolding in seconds. But as Verna orders Karen to run Blaze notices Barbas looking directly at them!

"Morgan, he can see us."

Raising her hand defensively prepared to offer the ugly bastard another dose of her fire. Although something in her wanted to run after Karen to watch over her. But despite herself, Blaze remained at her older sisters side.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas swept up Claudia again after her warning, as if to reiterate that he hadn't a care in the world.

What I'm getting into? If we are talking about the same thing, it isn't my first rodeo, dear. Try to keep up.

Nicolas laughed as he carried her into the room...

 

[Spellbinder]

Grammie's manor

<< Firebird said she had seen the manor and grammie in Limbo! another temporal phantom. But why had the spell she cast had THIS effect?>>

<< standing with Firebird, Spellbinder watched with concern and dismay as the horrid scene unfolded. she realized that Barbas had terrorized her mother as a child in an up close and personal way. But Grammie was there in strong, elegant form, wearing a variation of a "flying suit" and apparently ready to deal with Barbas.>>

<< Little Karen hurried past her and Morgan looked at her own mother , who in this temporal warp, was young enough to be HER daughter!>>

my mom!!! and grammie...our looks...their all so similar and they all came from...

Hecate!

<< she too caught sight of Barbas looking at them...grinning from his horrid, burned face as he laughed softly and rose up to face Grammie. the look was scarey indeed...and Firebird lifted her hand, ready to act if necessary. Spellbinder felt the Eldritch Armour manifest over her right shoulder and arm as her soul sword once again leaped in to her hand WITHOUT her calling for it.>>

We...we're in trouble...

<< but before they could prepare to DEFEND themselves the door to the bedroom SLAMMED and they were pushed back out into the hall. a crash of thunder heralds the sound of a fierce battle inside.>>

Grammie!!!

<< Spellbinder was about to break down the door. her EMOTION had kicked in. She wanted to help protect her grammie, lest she lose her the way they lost Arielle!>>

<<but what they had to remember that this was much like a temporal phantom in limbo! they could not interfere...only observe!>>

 

[Seer]

danger

<< as the sisters witnessed the frightfull events, they were soon shut out of the room and back in the long, dark hall. Karen had disappeared down the stairs and Spellbinder's instinct to go back in for Grammie was understood but not the correct course of action. >>

<< They would soon find themselves more than a little "diverted" in their attention as they were confronted by Black! Not as he appeared now [ Morgan's servant in Limbo after having been cast through the Seige Perilous by Ororo 2 years ago], but as he was in the days of VALIANT! The advanced killing machine that had been dispatched to specifically target Spellbinder and her half sister after Spellbinder had liberated Blaze from a black ops organization.>>

<< the creature was in full effect and apparently as ruthless as ever as he snatched Spellbinder and began to electrocute her with black lightning! JUST like he did the first time he ambushed her all those years ago. He was IMMUNE to most of her magicks, and it was only when she relied on her basic MUTANT power [ mental control of the stepping discs] and her super strength and a bit of guile did she NARROWLY win her battle against him, but not before he had killed Blaze.>>

<< would THIS time be different? Spellbinder was older, more seasoned now and Firebird was the more powerfull alternate of Foxfire....in spit of the, they were now being ambused [indirectly] by Barbas in a temporal warp!>>

 

[Siren]

Time elapsed before the room in which Nicolas and Claudia were in finally fell silent. For a younger man he certainly did know how to keep up, however Claudia was well seasoned in the art of sex and threw in some tricks even NICOLAS never encountered before. All in all, it was an extremely ejoyable experience for the both of them.

Laying in a mass of tangled sheets, Claudia rolled to the side and climbed out of bed. With the sheets still wrapped around her body, she headed to the mini bar and began to pour herself a scotch; something strong and to the point. Lifting the drink to her lips, she took a small swig and turned around; leaning her body against the bar casually.

"So, what's happening with the Barbas situation?"

Claudia wasn't much for cuddling or having cutesy small talk about how 'wonderful' the sex was. They both knew it was good, so she asked about a more important subject: Barbas. With her sister shaken up because of the last attack, she wanted answers from Nicolas.

Barbas: You're deflecting, Claudiaaa...

Rolling her eyes, Claudia took another large swig of her drink hoping to drown Barbas' words away.

"Anything on how to neutralize him yet?"

 

[Rampage]

"So, what's happening with the Barbas situation? Anything on how to neutralize him yet?

Nicolas relaxed after what can only be described as an intensely enjoyable experience. Her skill and...flexibility were, in all honesty, the stuff of legend. Her question was neither unexpected or unwelcome, although his amazing recovery meant that he was sincerely hoping that she had more in the tank as he'd gone longer than he would like without sex.

I have engaged him several times in the last couple of days. He is powerful and sustaining himself on pure fear. As crazy as it seems, the best thing you can do is not allow your own fears and doubts to feed into him. You are not his primary target, only a source of fuel as it were, and we are working to finish this on several fronts. Hopefully this will be the last sleepless night for us.

Nicolas looks at her intently, guessing at what was eating her. His next words were said in earnest, and she knew that he was not lying as he said them.

I have been trying to make sure you and your sister and her friend make it out of this, alright? I wish I had more, but it is not from trying. So try to relax, as hard as it may be to do. Perhaps I can help...

Nicolas disappears...

...reappearing beside her as he washes a fluttery soft caress over her body. He was planning for one more go before he left, if she were willing. In any case, he would at least present her with the rather pleasurable option...

 

[Siren]

Nicolas I have engaged him several times in the last couple of days.

"Join the club."

She deadpanned under her breath. Putting her empty glass on the bar top, Nicolas continued.

Nicolas: He is powerful and sustaining himself on pure fear. As crazy as it seems, the best thing you can do is not allow your own fears and doubts to feed into him.

Claudia looked at him for a moment before shifting her eyes away. She was a independent and headstrong individual....she never liked asking for help. She never liked to admit she had any flaws. The walls she built around herself were her protection. She found out the hard way at a very young age that the world was filled with sick and darranged people.....people who did nothing but hurt others because they could; because it made them feel BETTER about themselves. Nicolas' words made Claudia think of all the things Barbas COULD use against her...and why he hadn't already. It was actually comforting to know he was targeting someone else rather than herself. It kept her secrets safe and unexposed to the world. Secrets that would ultimately destory her emotionally if revealed.

Nicolas: I have been trying to make sure you and your sister and her friend make it out of this, alright? I wish I had more, but it is not from trying.

"I appriciate your help Nicolas. If it was up to the others, they would have fed me and my sister to Barbas on a silver platter already."

Nicolas: So try to relax, as hard as it may be to do. Perhaps I can help...

Nicolas disappeared and reappeared next to her; already ready for round two. Smiling, Claudia shut her eyes and inhaled deeply, feeling a soft caress overcome her body. His seduction techniques were definitely good....but if you give a dog too many treats, they become spoiled. Dropping the sheet that concealed her naked body, it fell to the floor and pooled around her feet. Walking past Nicolas with a smirk, she grabbed her black wrap dress that was tossed on the nearby dresser and slipped it on, tying it shut.

"Next time."

Picking up her red pumps and purse, Claudia made her way to the hotel door and opened it. Before leaving, she looked over her shoulder at Nicolas.

"Keep me updated [on Barbas]."

Giving him a sly smile, Claudia finally exited the hotel room, heading back to her own suite three floors above.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas disappeared and reappeared next to her; already ready for round two. Smiling, Claudia shut her eyes and inhaled deeply, feeling a soft caress overcome her body. His seduction techniques were definitely good....but if you give a dog too many treats, they become spoiled. Dropping the sheet that concealed her naked body, it fell to the floor and pooled around her feet. Walking past Nicolas with a smirk, she grabbed her black wrap dress that was tossed on the nearby dresser and slipped it on, tying it shut.

"Next time."

Nicolas smiled. She was certainly practiced in seduction, right down to leaving them wanting more...

Perhaps.

Picking up her red pumps and purse, Claudia made her way to the hotel door and opened it. Before leaving, she looked over her shoulder at Nicolas.

"Keep me updated [on Barbas]."

Giving him a sly smile, Claudia finally exited the hotel room, heading back to her own suite three floors above.

No problem. Take care of yourself.

Nicolas turned, his clothing already returned as he stood, discarding his key cad on the bedsheets as he exited not too soon after the seductress.

As he stepped into the doorway, he disappeared again...

...reappearing at the entrance to Melrose Place. He was refreshed and it felt good to be made to feel good. Now, back to the GRIND. He made his way towards Sharon's when he realized that she was in Mike's apartment. He hesistated a moment, then walked upt o the door, knocking soundly...

 

[Firebird]

The manor

In seconds Morgan's armor appeared as did the soul sword. Just as Blaze had said previously that powerful weapon was the key to stopping Barbas.

We...we're in trouble...

"You've been hanging out with Alison too long!"

The Seer had a solemn way of explaining things to the others, which was usually always very grim and depressing. Before either sister could react they were thrown out of Karen's room with the loud clash of a door slamming shut.

"Verna!"

Even if they could only observe these events, it was difficult not to react to the situation. Blaze was right beside Morgan attempting to get inside the door to help Verna battle Barbas.

Already Blaze was trying to think of a few possibilities to gain entrance to Karen's bedroom when Black appeared! Glancing to the side, Blaze's green eyes went wide with horror. She remembered him well, it was an experience that haunted her for years. The nightmares of seeing him in her dreams.

Watching Black electrocute Morgan sent a ripple of fear and adrenaline through the mutant. The emotional onslaught of this would anger Blaze. She knew if she touched Morgan the likelihood of being electrocuted herself was great. But unlike mainstream Foxfire, Firebird was much more pro active.

With Black's back turned away and his focus on Morgan, scorching flames shot through Blaze's hands directly at Black's wrists, an attempt to char the skin and burn his hands right off Morgan. Raising her hand towards the ceiling to hurl a fire beam, causing shards of debris to fall from the ceiling. But Blaze wasn't about to stop there as the ground underneath him would tremble. Firebird's eyes glowing bright yellow as she clenched her teeth. The ground underneath around Black would tremor as the floor boards would break apart by Firebird's doing. A sudden explosion rocked under his mammoth weight from her volcanic powers. Lava shooting up from the floor and even if he avoided it the tremble of the floor would propel him towards the ceiling where broken debris were, which would be an onslaught of sharp wood, plaster, and other debris that would stab him.

Springing forward from her position to propel through the air to grab Morgan. Firebird was bolder daring, and courageous as she would do whatever it took to stop a beast that tormented her and her sister.

 

[Siren]

Reaching the top floor of the Roosevelt, Claudia withdrew her suite's key card and slid it into the slot to unlock the door. Seeing the red light turn green, she opened the door and entered the room. The Marilyn Monroe suite was large; it had a livingroom, sitting room, kitchen, two bedrooms, and a balcony overlooking Hollywood. As Claudia entered the livingroom she could hear Johnny and Clara talking in the sitting room. Slowing her movements, she quietly stopped. Noting the lights throughout the suite were dimmed and candles were lit, Claudia realized that she was probably walking in on an intimate moment between Johnny and Clara. But then again, when WASN'T there an underlining intimate moment between the two of them? It was like watching a Shakespearean play the way they danced around their feelings for each other.

With her heals in her hand, Claudia quietly bypassed the sitting room and headed straight for one of the vacent bedrooms, closing the door behind her. Sighing, she tossed her shoes and purse onto a nearby chair and climbed on top of the perfectly made bed. Curling up with her head resting on top of her forearm/bicep in the middle of the bed, ironically she wasn't very tired. Completely the opposite actually. The alcohol had worn off and she was now alone with her thoughts.

Barbas: You don't think I know...do you?

Claudia blinked slowly, her eyes settled on the plush green potted plant that sat in the corner of her bedroom.

Barbas: I know everything, Claudia. I know everything there is to know about you and your past. And THAT is what scares you the most. That I will share your deepest and darkest secret with everyone, exposing who you really are. That this tough mob queen fascade you have will melt away because no one will look at you the same way again. That they'll be disgusted by you.....pitty you....think you're pathetic and weak. Oh I know everything Claudia.....it's just a matter of time before I USE it.

A single tear falls from the corner of her eye, running across the bridge of her nose, and onto the bed as she stares blankly at the plant. She knew exactly what secret he was talking about....and the damage that would be done once exposed. It petrified her, hearing his words in her head. His unfeeling, ruthless voice. It reminded her of her father.....Blinking, Claudia's dark chocolate eyes were glassy and sad; a stark contrast to how playful and frisky they were only ten minutes earlier. Nicolas' words about feeding Barbas with her fears and doubts really struck Claudia hard. That was actually the main reason she didn't end up staying with him longer. How could she not be fearful of what he could expose? Especially now that Barbas himself made it clear he knew exactly where to hit Claudia the hardest.

 

[Seer]

and so

<< Morgan's screams gave Black the validation he needed as he attacked her with his cold, debilitating touch and electrocuted her with the black lightning. However FIREBIRD was not about to stand idly by as she attacked Black with pin point ferocity, first his hands...which weakened his grip on Spellbinder long enough for her to tear away from him and fall to the floor. Firebird scrambles to pull her sister away as she unleashes the second part of her attack, a volcanic eruption force beneath Black which propells him up to the ceiling and INTO the jagged wooden spikes which now push through his chest and stomach.>>

<< the fire elemental pulls Morgan down the hall...into another room and onto a bed before slamming the door shut and barricading it On the bed, Spellbinder is shaking badly, still in shock, but not dead. her magick protected her from being BURNED but the PAIN in her body...and the fatigue that would soon set in her muscles would make her less than useless, unless Firebird could rally Spellbinder's attention long enough to get her to use her restorative magick on herself. Firebird counteracts the debilitating cold of Black's touch with her own gentle heat touch which will help stabilize her sister.>>

<< But like any menace...Black was FAR from finished. Firebird had only brought them precious few moments. as he was now about to come busting through the door at any moment.>>

back at the Roosevelt

<< Nicolas and Claudia enjoyed a satisfying and supposedly "no strings attached" fling. a workout of sorts for mind and body...some might even suggest it was THERAPY for both. But while Claudia certainly had less to lose than Nicolas in this little situation, she was now being confronted by Barbas with a prologue of what would be her worst nightmare to come and Nicolas, was being confronted by Harbinger and MorningStar! The precog, during the course of the evening, had been aware of where Haleigh and Nicolas were going. Haleigh was one thing, Nicolas was another. He was told to stay with Sharon...that was part of the terms of his NOT being cast out of the Six at this time. Not only had he violated that...but he then went and slept with CLAUDIA, a woman who had not only vexed Sharon in times past, but most recently MORGAN! >>

<< The reprocussions of Nicolas' actions this evening would be evident the next day. If he THOUGHT he could violate the terms of his remaining with the Six, he was mistaken. if he thought it would be OKAY for him to fraternize with the ENEMY...he was SADLY mistaken. >>

<< how interesting that for once, Haleigh was NOT the focus of mass disapproval and now, she was able to fully enjoy herself and devote her time to trying to fix her relationship with Zachary Armani, but not even SHE could escape the shadow of Barbas for long.>>

 

[Spellbinder]

Grammie's manor

<< Spellbinder gasped as Black was instantly upon her, snatching her away and assaulting her with the black lightning, one of his many destructive attacks. Her body seized up...and she felt like the power was slicing through her body with a bitter cold touch. She could ALMOST think...but certainly not act.>>

<< Firebird intervened, and freed her from Black's grip. The fire elemental got Spellbinder to temporary safety inside another room.>>

<< Spellbinder FINALLY felt like her body wasnt exploding on a cellular level but she trembeled fiercly from cold...and shock. >>

wh...wha.....

<< she sputtered, as Firebird quickly barricaded the door and then calmed Morgan's body by stabilizing her temperature and soothing her with her touch. her the eldritch armour on her arm began to glow as her magick began to further fight the effects of the attack.>>

what...happened!?

Firebird: It was Black! Barbas must have pulled him from our fears...but don't worry , sis. I've got your back. Just heal up soon.

<< Morgan shut her eyes. She still felt shaken and nauseated but surprisingly this wasnt as bad as the first REAL time Black had attacked her. Maybe its because she never FORGOT...and she always had it in the back of her mind one day it could happen again, and that she must be ready...be able to recover more quickly...or die! she couldnt allow herself to fall victim to yet ANOTHER MAN! Nicolas had crossed that line with her and no one ELSE would live to tell about it. NOR could she allow Firebird to DIE trying to defend her like the last time...even if that was a DIFFERENT Blaze.>>

...i've got to...

<< Black was beating on the door, no doubt trying to scare them by dragging it out rather than just busting through with one punch.>>

i've got to GET UP!


<< she said...as she centered herself and silently ignited a restoration spell. groaning as she rolled over, she began to feel better and better with each breath as the spell took effect and soon, she stood up to her feet firmly gripping her soul sword and standing next to Blaze.>>

alright...that's IT! I'm TIRED of tall, over grown MEN thinking they can TERRORIZE ME! that shit stops HERE AND NOW! It's time for ALL OF THEM to learn why it's NOT a good idea to PISS OFF A WITCH!

<< she says with forcerfull bitterness as chimes sound off.>>

<< Black EXPLODES THROUGH the door...and is now in the room, taking up most of the space around him as Spellbinder looks up at him defiantly.>>

are you any kin to Nicolas? you're big, tall, you dont care who you hurt OR what you destroy!

<< she spat with venom, knowing that the creature would not appreciate her communication.>>

Well...come and GET US!

<< Black ROARS with savage instinct and rushes forward, even the force that preceeds him causes Spellbinder and Firebird's hair to blow back as they are pushed back themselves.>>

Hang on FIREBIRD!

<< she thrusts her hand forward, firing a massive eldritch bolt, KNOWING it will simply pass through him and will only make him hasten his steps! closer and closer...he charges like a nemesis until Spellbinder catches him MOST off guard as she mentally summons a STEPPING DISC that opens about his mid section, encompassing his waste!>>

Die...AGAIN! and say hello to Nicolas AND his father when you get to HELL!

<< her violet eyes sparkle as the disc CLOSES and teleports the bottom half of his body, leaving the top half. She splits him in half before the top half of the body is ALSO teleported, somewhere ELSE. his scream roars and echoes around them...his shadow recedes from over them and falls back until it fades away, leaving them in the dark room with only the sound of the storm outside.>>

<< after a few moments...>>

I knew my magick...my eldritch bolt wouldnt stop him, but I remember him...he expected me to lash out with that first and i had to make him THINK that, so i could lure him into the trap of my stepping disc.

<< slowly exhaling as she lowers her soul sword.>>

the last time we fought...he nearly beat me to death...i didnt know what to do..it was the FIRST TIME EVER that i had faced a foe that my MAGICK had no effect on! You...or rather your alternate, Blaze...Foxfire...she stepped in...when he battered me to near unconsciousness. It was her cries of pain as he killed her that brought me BACK and made me draw on other parts of myself, my powers that I had not relied on before... my super strength, combined with physical training, and my stepping disc, used purely as defense/offense. I used my disc to steal his sword from him...i gripped it...DESPITE the pain, long enough to plunge it into his heart and seemingly kill him. I nearly lost my arm that day, along with my life.

Barbas may have thought BLACK was the trick to scare us...to DEATH...and maybe it would have worked...in other circumstances. But i NEVER forgot my battle with Black, what it took for me to BEAT HIM...what it COST ME...and most importantly, I'll never forget what i LEARNED from that battle.

Barbas underestimated me. If he thinks I'm going to CONTINUE to let him prey upon me through my fear of men trying to hurt me like what Nicolas and my father did ...he's SADLY MISTAKEN!

<< the bitterness was evident.>>

I have SURVIVED Christopher AND Nicolas...and now...it's MY TURN!

 

[Firebird]

Verna's Manor

Determined and stubborn Firebird fought bravely to save Spellbinder from the crippling grip of Black, a foe that terrorized both siblings. Yet unlike Foxfire who had fallen to the powerful creature known as Black Firebird wasn't going out without a bang. Just like Foxfire the desire to save her sister and even sacrifice her own life in order to preserve Morgan's was exactly identical. The difference was Firebird's power was more potent and she thought on her feet quicker, a result of the mutant holocaust on her world.

Spotting Black's mammoth body propel through the air into the jagged edges of wood and other debris she was quick to grab Morgan and rushed down the hall into another room. Placing Morgan on the bed quickly before slamming the door and dragging one of the nearby dressers in front of the door, that easily slide on the polished hard wood flooring. Blaze knew that wouldn't hold for long but it was just enough to offer a reprieve.

Rushing over to the bed, both of her hands cupped Morgan's chin in her hands. A gentle stream of warmth cascaded into the Sorceress' body. "It's okay Morgan, you're safe for now." She tried to coax to bring her back down to earth.

what...happened!?

"It was Black! Barbas must have pulled him from our fears...but don't worry , sis. I've got your back. Just heal up soon."

The pounding of the door continued to shake the room. Firebird was prepared to go round two with Black if necessary. He wouldn't touch Morgan a second time if she could prevent it, allowing Morg the time to heal.

alright...that's IT! I'm TIRED of tall, over grown MEN thinking they can TERRORIZE ME! that shit stops HERE AND NOW! It's time for ALL OF THEM to learn why it's NOT a good idea to PISS OFF A WITCH!

Firebird nodded once, obviously the restoration spell worked as Morgan stood next to Blaze just as Black exploded in front of them. Raising her arm in an attempt to block as Morgan coaxed Black. The roar of his cry causing Blaze's hair to whip around like snakes of Medusa's hair. Brushing a few strands away as she stood tall with her sister.

"Come on, pussy face!"

She smirked, catching onto what Morgan was doing. Black fell right into the trap. Morgan cleverly summoned a disc of his body before slicing right through him. Blaze looked on in awe as her big sister annihilated Black.

"Dayum!"

the last time we fought...he nearly beat me to death...i didnt know what to do..it was the FIRST TIME EVER that i had faced a foe that my MAGICK had no effect on! You...or rather your alternate, Blaze...Foxfire...she stepped in...when he battered me to near unconsciousness. It was her cries of pain as he killed her that brought me BACK and made me draw on other parts of myself, my powers that I had not relied on before... my super strength, combined with physical training, and my stepping disc, used purely as defense/offense. I used my disc to steal his sword from him...i gripped it...DESPITE the pain, long enough to plunge it into his heart and seemingly kill him. I nearly lost my arm that day, along with my life.

Barbas may have thought BLACK was the trick to scare us...to DEATH...and maybe it would have worked...in other circumstances. But i NEVER forgot my battle with Black, what it took for me to BEAT HIM...what it COST ME...and most importantly, I'll never forget what i LEARNED from that battle.

Barbas underestimated me. If he thinks I'm going to CONTINUE to let him prey upon me through my fear of men trying to hurt me like what Nicolas and my father did ...he's SADLY MISTAKEN!

"You kicked his ass to the curb real well! That was awesome." Blaze grinned more, relieved that they had rid themselves of Black. Blaze had never seen her sister this way but the mainstream Blaze had. It was refreshing and exciting at the same time.

I have SURVIVED Christopher AND Nicolas...and now...it's MY TURN!

"Yes, it is."

Blaze looked around, "Morgan, should we contact the others? They could be looking for us." Trying to think ahead of the game. "And if Barbas can see us does that mean we can hurt him here too?"

 

[Spellbinder]

Grammie's manor

<< Spellbinder allowed herself to relax just a bit as the din of Black faded into the darkened, cold air of the room and manor. as Firebird spoke, the sorceress felt oddly invigerated! like FINALLY she had turned the corner! like Barbas had just did her a FAVOR!>>

"Morgan, should we contact the others? They could be looking for us." Trying to think ahead of the game. "And if Barbas can see us does that mean we can hurt him here too?"

and how would they get "here"? I cast the spell that somehow brought us here. The only ones who MIGHT be able to get to us are Harbinger and Shadow Weaver.

<< she looks over at her sister.>>

and I don't think we NEED to contact them. Something tells me that the spell is playing out the way it was supposed to.

<< walking toward the door and pushing the dresser aside, she turns and looks back at her sister and beckons her to follow.>>

Besides...since when did WE need BACK UP everytime we had a little work out on our hands? Remember our [since the alternates shared this point in history] days in Valiant? You said so yourself...I need to regain my edge. Black is totally VANQUISHED and I'm ready to bust some more heads as we get out of here...but first, I need to find Grammie...

<< opening the door.>>

that was the whole point of casting this spell.

which i still can't figure out WHY it brought US here rather Grammie to US!

 

[Seer]

and more!

<< back out into the hall...there was NO evidence of a confrontation between Black and Firebird! it was as if nothing had happened!>>

<< the sisters quickly checked each direction of the long hall before stepping out and walking together down the hall. Spellbinder IMMEDIATELY goes for the door to her mother's childhood room and forces it open, but again...there's no one there!>>

<< the sisters burst in, but again..NOTHING. the room looks perfect and in order. Spellbinder and Firebird shut the door and stalk the long dark hall together with Spellbinder holding her soul sword firmly ready to strike and Firebird manifesting a corona of energy around each of her fists.>>

<< without going through another door and up one smaller flight of stairs to the ATTIC, the sisters returned down the stairs and back on the mainfloor, the sisters were now in the family room, with the option of either going toward the elongated dining room, the conservatory or the kitchen. >>

<< the night time sky outside was still stormy, the rain pelted the doors and the flashes of lightning preluded the cracks of thunder through the dark house.>>

<< after a few moments and whispered ideas, the sisters stay together, moving through the family room and toward the elongated diniring room, to the kitchen.>>

<< in the kitchen, there were signs of chaos and violence...and a large SCORCH MARK on the floor headed toward the door leading to the basement. there were beams of light flickering from the crack of the door.>>

<< Spellbinder looks at Firebird, before taking hold of the doorknob and opens it...the sisters are greeted by flowing black tendrils of "Smoke"....and the extreme feeling of urgency and DREAD. they HEAR the sound of a little girl crying...not loudly but almost as if she's trying to hold herself together inspite of what she feels.>>

<< as the sisters come down the stairs slowly they find the basement is filled with a hellish backdrop...the cries of fallen witches echo in the air which itself is thick with despair.>>

in the basement...toward the center

<< Verna can be seen...in her flying suit, holding Karen tightly. the little girl's arms are wrapped around her neck and her face is buried down between Verna's shoulder and chest area. Verna looks weary, some of her hair is out of place...and clearly she has been exerting herself in battle.>>

Barbas: Foolish woman....didnt you realize your road of defiance would lead to an end? You thought you could DENY ME of my RIGHTFULL vengeance againt Hecate's blood line? It's a shame...

<< the demon appearing in a tall column of billowing, glowing black smoke as his tendrills attempted to lash at Verna and Karen but were being rebuffed by Verna's pentagram of protection spell.>>

Barbas: All those girls...they died because YOU denied me what was mine! Even Karen's little friend Katie! She could have had a wonderfull life...but YOU interferred.

<< his face sneers with contempt and looms large over Verna with the little Karen in her arms.>>

Barbas: with YOU AND KAREN , I will have all the power i need to take my rightful place on earth ONCE MORE and with Hecate gone...no one will be able to stop me! as long as the human heart beats..there is FEAR...and where there is FEAR...I AM!

FEED ME YOUR FEAR!

<< the basement QUAKES as plumes of black fire erupt from cracks in the foundation around them...and Verna, although visibly WEARY holds her ground and remains steadfast.>>

Verna: NEVER!

<< she extends one of her hands forward, in a "STOP" gesture as she faces the demon head on.>>

Verna: I have already LIVED THROUGH my fear...of watching you strike at my granddaughter. The blood of innocents, the essence of their souls...that is on YOUR wretched head, but if i AM to die...it will not be before i BANISH you from this place. My LOVE for my granddaughter gives me the strength to carry on where others may have failed and it is that LOVE that casts out ALL FEAR!

<< and with that, Verna casts a spell as Barbas increases his ATTACK on her and the envrionment around her.>>

Verna: in, boxed in full of fear,
my panic grows amnic, till I can't hear.
In need of reprieve, so I can breathe,
remove my fear please, make it leave.

<< Barbas ROARS with agitation and surprised ANGER, just as he did the night Hecate turned the tables on him in Medusa's cave...he lunges at Grammie and Karen, but the pentagram STILL holds fast...Verna falters for only a MOMENT but remains committed...>>

LOVE is LIGHT
Too strong for FEAR to fight
Ancient demon that haunts, return to the dark void where you belong
You cannot have this child!
Go away and leave my sight
And take with you this endless nightmare!


<< Barbas' stronghold is BROKEN and the feedback is TREMENDOUS as his entire horizon begins to fluxuate and he begins to erupt in flames as his physical form is twisted INSIDE OUT as the souls of those innocents he consumed burst forth..charing for the ceiling, through the house and roof and up to the sky.>>

<< Barbas sputters and roars with final pain as his manifestation EXPLODES and the feedback knocks Verna and Karen to the floor...before charing toward Spellbinder and Firebird, and BLASTING them back to their own time...their screams herald their arrival as they fall through the ceiling of apartment four BACK to the floor where they first began!>>

 

[Spellbinder]

MP- apt. 4

<< as the crouched down, heading down the steep , old wooden stair case to the dark basement filled with commotion and despair, Spellbinder gasped as she saw Barbas in a frightfull manifestation trying his BEST to get to grammie and her mother. Grammie's pentagram of protection held fast but the situation was no less dire. He wanted Karen and would GLADLY take Grammy for sustenance too.>>

<< The sisters had to stand back and not interfere...this had already occurred, but Spellbinder GLARED at Barbas. In him she saw the sum of her fears revolving the menace of MEN...and it was clear that it didnt BEGIN with her with either.>>

<< as Grammie held on to her mother, Spellbinder realized more than ever how much she owed to Grammie. The woman risked her life battling Barbas so that Karen would LIVE and ultimately that is what allowed Morgan to be here. Hecate had ordained Morgan's arrival and probably had communicated to Grammie the need to defend Karen from Barbas.>>

Grammie...

<< Morgan coughed as she sat up...and she and Blaze helped each other to stand. they were BOTH still in costume!>>

she faced Barbas...and survived...

But the darkhold doesnt mention the details of her battle with him , nor any specific spell to vanquish him! i wanted to TALK to her! The spell...it didnt work the way it was supposed to...WHY?

<< she said with irritation in her voice.>>

Grammie: The spell worked, my precious Morgan.

<< a wind rushes through apartment for as Blaze and Morgan look across the large living room to see GRAMMIE standing by the breakfast nook, in her flying suit. She looks older, but no less regal.>>

Spellbinder: GRAMMIE!

<< Morgan shrieked! The woman was holding the Darkhold, a sign that she was in fact who she claimed to be since the book could protect itself from EVIL at all costs.>>

<< the sorceress ran forward to hug Grammie, who welcomed her great granddaughter with open arms and warmth.>>

Grammie: Oh my precious baby. You've come so far...you are everything Hecate said you would be! and my granddaughter...your mother, where is she....

<< the woman spots Blaze.>>

Grammie: Blaze Fielding. You were born after i died...but I've watched you, or rather your original mainstream counterpart. That fire in your green eyes and your heart is just what Morgan needed in this time to get back to HERSELF!

<< she beckons Blaze forward and takes her hand in her own.>>

Grammie: You took a BIG risk in coming HERE to this time, but it only shows how much courage you have. You'll need that in the final battle with Barbas.

<< Morgan was about to speak but Grammie held up her hand.>>

Grammie: first, bring your mother and the rest here...then we can talk. time grows short and I can only remain corporeal for so long.

<< thunder rumbles outside of Melrose Place.>>

<< Morgan nods and looks at Blaze.>>

to her mother via their bond as mother and child: Mother, come to my apartment, and hurry! GRAMMIE IS HERE!

<< meanwhile, Blaze goes to the wall panel near the air conditioning unit and presses a button to contact Alison, Delilah and Haleigh [not realizing that Haleigh had left for the Roosevelt.] everyone who was at MP was summoned to apartment 4 for the surprise.>>

 

[Seer]

together in the night

<< soon, Alison, Delilah, Karen, Mike and Sharon were in apartment four with Morgan, Blaze and a newly arrived Verna Eckert.>>

<< Alison contacted Haleigh immediately but did NOT contact Nicolas. Quite frankly, she was THROUGH with him and even if he managed to show up, it wasnt going to stop her from OUTING him to the team and letting them know where he had went and what he'd done. He sought out the company of a woman who was out to vex Morgan, Sharon and Haleigh at EVERYTURN! a woman who would use him up and thow him away with but a SLIGHT thought. He was no better in his judgement now than Delilah was with Bishop and she'd let him know as only SHE could but for now, the important thing was to talk with Verna and to LEARN what they could to prepare to deal with Barbas...for their sakes and for all others at risk.>>

<< the night was wearing on...it was now late night. the time when the viel between reality and spirituality was thinnest. this made it possible for Grammie to respond to Morgan's summoning spell but not before Morgan saw and learned something crucial about the past and about HERSELF.>>

<< it would all come together soon, but at the moment, a tearfull reunion between Karen, Verna and Morgan took place while the others looked on. soon everyone was seated around the large leather sectional in Morgan's spacious living room with the darkhold on the square coffee table. Verna sat between Karen and Morgan with Blaze beside Morgan. the three blondes all resembled each other. three generations of witches, all from Hecate's legacy and Blaze, who was apart of the family...but from the OTHER SIDE [Christopher] sat with her sister. She may not have been Grammie's blood, but the older witch regarded her warmly just the same...and Karen had also learned from her mistakes with FOXFIRE and had been most kind to Firebird since her arrival. Alison sat with Delilah...and glared with CONTEMPT at Nicolas for more than a few moments. Haleigh sat near those two while Sharon sat beside Mike. >>

 

[Firebird]

Apartment 4

and how would they get "here"? I cast the spell that somehow brought us here. The only ones who MIGHT be able to get to us are Harbinger and Shadow Weaver.

"You're the witch here, Morg, not me." Countered Blaze with a smirk before Morgan would reply back.

and I don't think we NEED to contact them. Something tells me that the spell is playing out the way it was supposed to.

Nodding along, Blaze trusted Morgan's judgement here.

Besides...since when did WE need BACK UP everytime we had a little work out on our hands? Remember our [since the alternates shared this point in history] days in Valiant? You said so yourself...I need to regain my edge. Black is totally VANQUISHED and I'm ready to bust some more heads as we get out of here...but first, I need to find Grammie...

"Well, I think that restoration restored more than just your body." Winking to the statuesque blonde. An inkling of sarcasm from the fire mutate. Blaze recalled the days in Valiant well. Morgan had been just as fierce back then as she was right now. Grinning wider just thinking how that 'hot mess' Nicolas would think of her new ball-busting sister now! Blaze would be damn sure to get front row seats to that event!

After exiting the room they were in both Morgan and Blaze would return to Karen's room only to find no one there. Frowning, Blaze and Morgan would check room by room, both ready and prepared for a fight this time. Finally, they arrived in the basement to find Barbas there with Verna and Karen. The look of fright in Karen's eyes pulled at Blaze's heart who wanted to desperately jump in and help Verna.

The battle would come to a fierce conclusion with Verna reciting a spell! "Of course.." Blaze mumbled as she realized that spell was another key to defeating Barbas. Being rocked and blown backwards Blaze cried out expecting to hit concrete when she was brought back to Morgan's apartment. Crashing down onto the floor with a groan before sitting up slowly before helping up Morgan.

she faced Barbas...and survived...

But the darkhold doesnt mention the details of her battle with him , nor any specific spell to vanquish him! I wanted to TALK to her! The spell...it didnt work the way it was supposed to...WHY?

Before Blaze could answer Morgan Verna would intercept instead. Glancing to her right to see Verna standing there with the Darkhold in her hands. Morgan shrieked with delight while Blaze remained where she was before finally being addressed.

Blaze Fielding. You were born after I died...but I've watched you, or rather your original mainstream counterpart. That fire in your green eyes and your heart is just what Morgan needed in this time to get back to HERSELF!

Smiling, Blaze walked over to take Verna's hand to offer it a squeeze of support. Poor Blaze was in awe at seeing Verna in the flesh, well, not quite. Going to the wall panel near the air conditioning unit and pressing a button to contact Alison, Delilah and Haleigh [not realizing that Haleigh had left for the Roosevelt.] everyone who was at MP was summoned to apartment 4 for the surprise.

Once everyone was seated on the large sectional everything would begin. But even from her position Blaze could tell Alison was irritated with Nicolas for some reason! The Seer's cobalt blue eyes burned a hole through Nicolas and Blaze couldn't help but be amused as well as irritated. What had he done now? If it was one thing Blaze knew it was Alison was going to have a field day with this one! Reaching down to Morgan's hand to squeeze it for support before her eyes reverted onto Verna.