Dream a little a dream

[Chimera]

*As the sun began to fall on the city that never sleeps, Lauren Danvers sat in front of her computer going over the pages she had spent the day writing. While her new primetime show was keeping her very busy, it wasn't her only job. Currently she was working on her third book which was supposed to be a book about the time she had spent while working for Channel 6 News as an investigative reporter right before she had left the city for Washington DC, as a way to somewhat get the public to remember that she was a true NYC girl and to get them to tune in. It was about the only part of her life that she hadn't really talked about and there was a good reason. For Lauren, there were still a lot of loose ends. It was here that she began her obsession with a particular group of social elite in the city who seemed to leave destruction and questions in their wake. It was during that time she had first heard the words "The Six" and it was the time where she was the first person in the city to report on the DEATH of Sharon Kelly, live at the scene with a bruised and beaten Alycia Barnett. After seeing what happened that night, she closed the lid on what she knew might be the biggest story of her life, figuring that the reason these people remained in the shadows..was a very good one.*

*Lauren had been back in the city for awhile and until The Purifiers attack, things seemed to be running rather smoothly. After her call to arms on air she had experienced a bit of a backlash from the network and for the time being she had a strict guideline for the type of news she was to report and how she was supposed to report, something she wasn't planning on following. Lauren had built her career on taking extreme risks to get a story, often placing herself in the line of fire in order to uncover the truth. That was the job of the press and the media. She was a gatekeeper and she wasn't about to hide the ugly truth from her viewers in order to keep investors, sponsors or anybody else happy. The Purifiers attack reeked of being connected to The Six and unfortunately for them, if they ended up being a part of this story involving Stryker's death and the dismantling of WilPharma, she was going to have to report on it. She had kept her mouth closed for a very long time out of respect for the lives of people like Sharon Kelly, Blaze Fielding and Alexis Quartermaine who had either died or gone missing to whatever their cause was. Glancing at her clock, she realized it was time to get ready for dinner at Ambrosia with some old and very dear friends.*

*She walked through the halls of her chic and understated Park Avenue penthouse, a far cry from the loft that she once rented in Chelsea (two floors underneath Vivica Lennox's apartment). Everything was still new. A new house, a new wardrobe and seemingly a new her. She had always been a girl on the go, opting for comfort rather than fashion, but as her career grew and her presence in the public eye grew worldwide, Lauren knew she would have to up her game. This meant consulting a stylist and caring about shoes and how they should correlate to dresses. If Lauren had her way, she would spend her time in sweatpants, a loose ponytail, a slice of pizza in one hand and a glass of delicious wine in the next. Still, even she would admit that the little girl inside of her loved being able to feel feminine and beautiful. As she popped a bottle of Pinot Grigio open and poured herself a glass she began to make her way towards her powder room and began to get ready for the night.*

*A few hours later, Lauren stepped out of her towncar and into the flashing lights of the paparazzi that seemed to always be at The Parthenon Hotel ever since Cameron King had made his glorious return to the spotlight as NYC's Golden Boy. She stopped and posed for a few photographs and smiled. She had been in those trenches before and she would be again. Waiting for hours just to get the smallest bit of information or a picture of something, anything that could help you pay your rent and move you up on the ladder.*

"Hello Boys!"

[finding a few photographers from Channel Six News in the Crowd]

"Oh! Look! My old stomping grounds! Hey! Tell Morty I said Hi! Good luck out there tonight guys!"

*She smiled as she entered the massive lobby of the hotel and took a moment to take it in, her sparkling coffee brown eyes taking her back a moment. One of her first jobs as a staff writer for Tempo had been to cover the Illustra/King Enterprises deal for The Parthenon's opening. It was here that she had gone through one of MANY experiences involving The Six that she hadn't been able to explain or figure out and here it still stood, bigger and more beautiful than ever. People could say what they want about Cameron King, but as she made her way through the Great Hall and towards the lobby of Ambrosia, it couldn't be denied; he had created a paradise of a getaway for New Yorkers.*

*Heading into the restaurant she checked in with the host and was led towards a table in the back where her dinner guests were already waiting for her with bright smiles and glasses of white wine. She was so excited as she ran over towards the women and embraced them both in a hug.*

"Valerie! Candice! Oh is it good to see you!"

*Her dinner guest and friends for the evening were Valerie Cooper, her best friend through college and life and one kick ass Assistant US Attorney for the District of Columbia who was consistently praised by the White House for her tireless work and the other was Candice Elliot, Congresswoman of Virginia and somebody who she had a great and deep respect for after her time spent pounding the streets of Capitol Hill covering elections and exposing fraud. The women sat down at the table as a waiter brought her a glass of wine.*

Valerie: [with a slight southern accent] "I think we need to start with a toast. When is the last time the three of us got our schedules to coordinate like this?!"

"...and on my home turf even!? Aren't I special?"

Valerie: "Nah, just lucky! I'm doing a speaking engagement at Columbia..and well nothing gets done in Congress anymore anyway, so you know she was free!"

*Candice crinkled her nose and rolled her eyes, taking a sip of her wine before setting it down.*

Candice: "Bite your tongue young lady! Despite what you read in the papers, *some* of us are actually getting things accomplished! Well..at least we were before William Stryker wound up dead..."

*Valerie laughed and rose her glass in the air.*

Valerie: "I think we found our toast! Good riddens to the son of a bitch! That man was stickier than molasses and the entire government is better off without him."

Candice: "I'll cheers to that.. [smirking] Though before we go any further..Lauren dear, I know at this point in our friendship we shouldn't HAVE to say this, but it's YOU we're dealing with..SO..let it be known that this dinner is exclusively and beyond the shadow of a doubt..."

*Candice and Valerie looked at each other and laughed, clinging their glasses together*

All Three: "OFF THE RECORD..."

*Lauren rolled her eyes but was able to laugh at herself. These women knew who she was at her core and knew how serious she took her job. They ALL did. It was nice to be around powerful women with respect and concern for their fellow woman, a trend she felt was slowly dying among women.*

"Alright, alright...But I mean I have to ask...not to mix business with pleasure, but..Stryker's death..I mean The White House must be up everybody's ass at the moment, right?"

*Candice shrugged and turned her head away for a second.*

Candice: "Eh, can you blame them? A state Senator dies after it's revealed he helped arm a group of religious zealots to murder American Citizens. They've been questioning everybody. I mean..[gesturing her hand] this city is breathtaking but the amount of loss it has experienced, especially with it's elected officials...It has people on edge. They don't feel safe anymore..and it doesn't seem like anybody is willing to do anything about it."

*Lauren cocked an eyebrow as she located Simon Pratt and Ava Cassadine across the way.*

"That's not necessarily true..Simon Pratt over there [pointing] apparently has big plans..He's supposed to be on my show to announce some big mutant rights initiative in a few days. All of New York Society is talking about it."

*Valerie shook her head and downed her wine with no abandon.*

Valerie: "Simon 'my shoes match my tie' Pratt? Get real! He's a hot guy..albeit a little scrawny for my liking, but he's not necessarily known for his charity work..unless you count all of his charitable donations to the degradation of femalekind over the years...he's a poor man's Cameron King."

Candice:[ "Not to mention the fact that his family actively funds and promotes some of the biggest anit-mutant legislation this country is facing. Their connections have stopped many a committee from laws and acts that could have prevented things like The Purifiers from ever being able to happen..."

*Lauren eyed him for a moment before snapping back into reality and her table, taking a long sip of her wine.*

"I don't know..I mean there's something about that kid. He's got moxy..and I think people underestimate him. I mean, I think at this point..where the balance of the scales are now..ANY HELP is good help. I mean the world lost a big ally when Sharon Kelly passed on.."

"If only they knew.."

*She knew that Sharon Kelly was The Silver Swan. It didn't take a rocket scientist to figure it out. Lauren had looked upon Sharon Kelly's dead body that night with Alycia Barnett and she had NEVER forgotten that face. So when she saw that face as some kind of masked superhero, she connected the dots immediately.*

*Valerie grabbed Lauren's hand and squeezed it before smiling softly.*

Valerie: "The world DID lose a big ally..but it was what inspired girl's like us to continue the fight. Everybody knows something was going on..and even I have to admit, I've abused my own power to search for information on the matter and I came up with something..I've busted my own fair share of cases wide open..in fact, it's a matter for pride for me..but I couldn't find NOTHING on Sharon Kelly's death..and that means something..."

Candice: "Sharon was really a class all of her own. I respected her deeply. She was a woman of principle and without apology..and Miss Cooper is correct. But if we learn anything from loss it's how strong we women are. We always rise to the occassion and fly head first into that glass ceiling. We thrive..."

[lifting her glass]

"To the strong, confident, BITCHY and effective women who came before us!"

*The women clinked their glasses together as the waiter came around and refilled their glasses. The conversation continued but Lauren kept an eye on Simon and Ava in her peripheral. It was simply part of her nature. She was always alert.*

 

[Longshot]

Ambrosia Restaurant

Ava: "National television?....You certainly are jumping from the frying pan into the fire. [letting out a small laugh] I would definitely mention something so they're not blind sided. If it's one thing the six hates, it's being kept in the dark."

< Simon gave a kind of unimpressed laugh. >

"Well..that last sentiment is a little ironic..don't you think?"

< Taking a sip of his drink. >

"But actually...as luck would have it..and for me it usually does, I'm supposed to go on her [pointing to Lauren Danvers across the way] show in a few days to unveil the idea and pimp the opening of the center. She's gold in this town. People love her and the kind of exposure she has is going to get me the attention that I need to get started.."

< Looking back at Ava. >

"Much to the chagrin of my family, i'm sure. I would start worrying about me, Cassadine..don't get me wrong, I have my own money, but if this whole thing doesn't work out, I might have to move in with you..."

< He watched her horrified look with laughter and a smile. >

"Jesus Christ Ava...calm down. I'm kidding."

< Setting his glass down on the table. >

"While I do love to go on about myself..I think it only fair to ask you how you are holding up, not that you'll actually tell me. Are things getting..I don't even know the right word to use...easier? Almost getting ready to talk about what's going on with you?"

< Simon was weighing his options carefully. He had always been fairly straightforward with the goddess and while the two were not in the dating business really yet, he was hoping that at some point she might feel comfortable talking to him about whatever it was that she was going through. This hadn't just started after the bus accident..it had been happening since he met her. Screaming in her sleep, vacant look in her eyes, tossing and turning. It may had been none of his business, but recently Simon's eyes had been open to a whole new world. The people he could talk to about things had just been cut in half...more than half. He saw the value of remaining emotionally honest. >

 

[Harbinger]

Minerva's Mansion

"Now..where is The Great Room in this Labrynth? I'm picturing David Bowie popping out at any second..not that I would object..he's quite a good kisser..."

<< Looks at Alison who seems surprised. >>

:: Alison turned back to look at Hazel, with a bemused expression on her face!::

"Oh don't give me those eyes, Alison.I may not require the pleasures of a man now..but back in my heyday..I was a legend."

:: Alison took a moment to close her mouth, which was slightly opened in disbelief as she looked at her mentor and mother figure just now, while Xavier, who seemed to be enjoying the intrigue and attention, laughed loudly::

::SIGH!::

:: Alison ran her hands through her blue/black hair as rolled her eyes up and smiled a bit::

Just what I need...Xavier to live out his "GRADUATE" fantasies.

:: She laughed at her own thought, in spite of herself as she turned around::

Right this way, you two.

:: Alison lead Xavier and Hazel to the Great Room. She kept a few steps ahead of them and with her back to them, they couldnt see that had a strange look on her face as she listened to Hazel easily befriend Xavier.::

:: When they reached the Great Room in all of its splendor, she turned to face them. Hazel asked if she maintained a proper herb garden::

You'll find that my herb garden is beyond just about anything else on this side of the globe, not to mention the rest of the flora and fauna that occurrs on this aerie.

:: Alison replied with confidence, knowing that even Hazel would be pleased like a kid in a well stocked candy store at the sight of the gardens::

My staff is preparing one of the suites for you now, it'll be ready shortly and if there's anything you need, please just let me know.

Please be seated

:: She gestured for them both to sit down as she sat aross from both of them.::

It's already "the next day" in the western hemisphere, so I won't be disturbing Karen when I reach out to her to let her know you're here.

:: Here she was, entertaining guests, a very important woman from her past and a man she had just met a week ago. Alison had been content to live a life of semi-solitude here at Minerva's. Vivica had said it herself, she'd become something of a hermit. But that all stemmed from her cold and distant nature, one that developed in response to her early years...with Kelly King.::

:: But Hazel was the first person to counter act all of that and help Alison to at least ALTER the path she was on. The care and guidance she gave to Alison not only helped ensure that Alison would realize her ultimate destiny, but it would continue to have an effect on her for the rest of her life, even if she had sometimes forgotten.::

:: Alison studied Hazel. With everything that happened, Alison couldn't help but want to make sure this wasn't some cruel illusion or apparition courtesy of Circe or some other foe of the Six's. She "SAW" the timelines leading to/from Hazel and confirmed that this was in fact HER. So there they were...Hazel and Xavier, both here to see Alison and not wanting anything from her, not judging her, not expecting anything from her. If anything, they BOTH wanted to be there for HER, HELP her however they could! Hazel especially.::

:: It was a rare moment and Alison didn't quite know what to do with herself::

:: After all this time and with everything that's happened, Alison was STILL not comfortable with "letting go" even when she'd earned the right to do so!::

::Looking at them both for a moment, Alison slowly inhaled and exhaled before beginning::

Your timing couldn't have been better, Hazel. There has been alot of activity around here, more so than usual, for the past few months. But right now, things are quiet. Xavier is visiting...

Before I send HIM on his way.

:: Alison already knew where HE needed to be. She'd been studying HIS time threads and saw where he needed to go in order to make the progress he needed. It was back in New York, but NOT on his own.::

And I...?

:: She was having a hard time.::

...I have an ABUNDANCE of free time on my hands right now.


:: Xavier had gotten up and made his way over to a well stocked bar and began fixing himself a drink, asking Hazel and Alison if they wanted anything. Hazel would probably want Hemlock, which Alison was stocked with and it was a truly CLASSICAL vintage, thanks to Persephone's connections but Alison was actually in the mood for something ELSE, a light, minty MORTAL concoction for a change::

Hmmm, Alycia raved about a "lifesaver" drink she had at the V.I.P. Lounge at The Parthenon. If you're up for playing bartender, I'll have one of those.


:: She looked at Hazel and leaned forward, speaking in a MUCH lower tone that only she could hear::

My having him hear is two fold...and NOT just for...CARNAL reasons.

:: KNOWING that Hazel already knew that was certainly part of why he was here::

Ever since he helped me with my brother and the Purifiers, and the Nimrod, I've wanted to at least return the favor, and I will. Just watch and see.

:: Her colbalt eyes shift over toward where Xavier is for a moment before returning to Hazel::

He can drink HEMLOCK and SURVIVE!

:: Sitting back they waited as he fixed all three of their drinks and returned. Alison reached out to take her's::

Thank you.

:: One of Alison's staff made her way into the Great Room and quietly indicated to Alison that all the preperations for the suite for Hazel were complete. Alison nodded and thanked her::

Hazel, you're suite is ready. Do you need any special food for your familiar?

 

[Titan]

You know, it used to be I never bothered with the skinny boys...I always thought they were a bit too FRAGILE, ya know what I mean? But they've GROWN on me!

Andrew tensed his arms in a “bodybuilder” pose.

“You’d just never met anyone as strong and manly as me. Face it Sally, you just can’t resist my rakish charm.”

And THIS one here, he's been an absolute GEM!

"I think Nicolas and Mike might get a bit JEALOUS if they heard you say that, Sally!"

“Ah, they’ll have to fight me for you, Sally, that’s for sure.”

He gently lifted her hand and kissed it with a grin, then gave it a pat with his other hand.

Well, MY day is certainly made! I'm feeling refreshed and ready for the world! I'm surrounded by beautiful people and I'm pretty sure that Eric Forrester is once again putty in my hands. Now, all I need are my walking papers to get out of here! I've been away from Spectra for too long!

“Amen to that. Sitting behind a desk all day is too demanding for my blood – Spectra is definitely ready to have its queen back. And I’ve been missing my dancing partner as well.”

He grinned down at her. Then looked to the other three, raising his eyebrows and flashy a winning smiled as he continued.

“But not to worry – there is plenty of me to go around. No need to fight.”

 

[Ruby]

The Hospital – Sally’s Room

:: Cass listened to the back and forth between Sally and Blaze, as well as Sally and Andrew once he showed up. She was quiet when Sally thanked them for helping her out. She wasn’t sure if the formidable woman even knew that she had been captured by the Purifiers…and SHE certainly wasn’t going to tell Sally. She was relatively fine, her captors were all dead, and she was slowly adjusting to her normal life again with help from Karen. There was no need to get her all worked up over it. ::

Well, MY day is certainly made! I'm feeling refreshed and ready for the world! I'm surrounded by beautiful people and I'm pretty sure that Eric Forrester is once again putty in my hands. Now, all I need are my walking papers to get out of here! I've been away from Spectra for too long!

:: Cass opened her mouth to protest, but Blaze excitedly told her that they ALL were looking forward to her being back and that she would be happy to plan the celebrations. Cass was looking forward to Sally’s ‘homecoming’ as well but she still wanted to make sure that Sally Spectra was indeed on the mend. ::

“Amen to that. Sitting behind a desk all day is too demanding for my blood – Spectra is definitely ready to have its queen back. And I’ve been missing my dancing partner as well.”

He grinned down at her. Then looked to the other three, raising his eyebrows and flashy a winning smiled as he continued.

“But not to worry – there is plenty of me to go around. No need to fight.”

:: Cass’ ice-blue eyes sparkled with mischief once again. ::

“Well then! I never could resist a charming Irishman…”

:: Inwardly she waited for the deep heaviness that always accompanied the trigger that made her think of her ex and she was surprised and pleased that she felt…NOTHING. Her smile grew bigger and it looked as if she were glowing from the inside out. ::

FINALLY! Another step to reclaiming my life! It had been WAY too long!

She looked then at Sally and playfully wagged her finger at her. ::

“I know that you’re all revved up and ready to go, Sally, but I don’t want you to overexert yourself now. I don’t want to hear about the great and mighty Sally Spectra fainting in her office from trying to do too much at once.”

:: She said all of this lightly, but she was protective of Sally – as they ALL were. She didn’t want anything bad to happen to her ever again. ::

 

[Persephone]

Simon: "Well..that last sentiment is a little ironic..don't you think?"

Rolling her eyes.

"You know what I mean."

Simon: "But actually...as luck would have it..and for me it usually does, I'm supposed to go on her. She's gold in this town..."

Glancing over at the woman Simon gestured to.

"She looks 12."

Simon: "People love her and the kind of exposure she has is going to get me the attention that I need to get started.."

"She does broadcast beyond the Trinity Elementary School morning announcements, right?"

Simon gave her a look and Ava laughed.

"What? Okay..fine, hopefully she's as good as you say she is."

Simon: "I would start worrying about me, Cassadine..don't get me wrong, I have my own money, but if this whole thing doesn't work out, I might have to move in with you..."

Ava was preparing to take a bite of her salad when she looked up at Simon with an obvious look of horror on her face. She didn't MEAN to look horrified....but the thought of moving beyond anything physical with him was not in her yearly agenda.

Simon: "Jesus Christ Ava...calm down. I'm kidding."

Ava narrowed her eyes at him.

"Not funny."

She finally smirked before taking a bite of her salad.

Simon: "While I do love to go on about myself..

"Imagine that?"

Ava interjected jokingly.

Simon: "I think it only fair to ask you how you are holding up, not that you'll actually tell me. Are things getting..I don't even know the right word to use...easier? Almost getting ready to talk about what's going on with you?"

Ava paused mid salad stab, looking at her plate of half eaten food for a moment. She could tell him she was fine--like she always did. He would look at her with unconvinced eyes but let it go--like he always did. That was one thing she appreciated about Simon, he was very discrete and didn't pry. That was probably why she was still enjoying his company for the last couple months.

"I'm fine."

Looking up, immediately Simon got the same look he always did after she said that statement.

"No, really....i've been feeling less weighed down lately. I think after everything that happened with those children, I realized that I needed a little....guidance."

She didn't quite want to say she was getting help from Karen, but he got the general idea that she was getting the help she needed.

"You met me at a very unusual time in my life Simon. I may be old as dirt, but I still have hardships."

She said with a slight laugh, poking fun at her own age and trying to lighten the mood a bit.

"I wouldn't worry about it. I promise i'm doing better."

 

[Firebird]

Outside the Hospital

The time had come for everyone to leave Sally so she could rest. She'd be getting out of here soon enough and Blaze would make sure her "Welcome Home" party would bring down the house!

For now though, it was time to get about the business of the day

But before they all left...

"Viv, if you and Cass want to go on without me, that's fine. I have something I need to check on before I get on with the rest of me day."

She hugs Cass, kissing her on the cheek. Then she hugs Vivica, giving her a light kiss

"I'll be in touch later today and we can have our usual hang out and cocktails Be safe, you two!"

She watched as each of them got into their cars and left from in front of the hospital. She waited by the entrance for...

"Hey, Drew!"

She called out as she saw him exit. He had stayed behind a bit longer to talk with Sally about some reports, but now he was down on the ground floor.

"Do you need a ride back to the Parthenon? While I'm waiting for my car I'd like to chat with you a moment, please. "


She walked over to him. He did clean up nice. He looked far more dashing than he did the night she saw him at the cathedral. He had a unusual way about him, but he didnt seem to be out to harm anyone, and Sally was crazy about him. Vivica and Cass seemed to like him also.
Blaze wondered what Morgan would think of him. In a short space of time, he'd gone from being a member of support staff to being a vital member of Sally's inner circle at Spectra, and for someone with little known experience in the fashion world, he took to it like a duck to water! He was also going to be Sally's body guard once she came out of the hospital! Blaze needed to get over her apprehension about him, and now was the time to start. She'd always been the one to reach out to new comers and help them feel more settled, more at ease. She was also the one to ask the questions no one else could or would.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

A private floor on the Parthenon

<< Karen was already in her [temporary] office, waiting for Ava for their meeting. The doctor had been much more active lately, seeing several clients, but she didn't mind. She was happy to provide help and support where it was needed among the Six. She took extra steps though, since she now counted two members of the six as her patients, members who were SISTERS no less. Things like completely shifting the appearence of the office for each of them so that nothing overlapped.>>

<< While she waited for Ava, she went over some notes and files on her tablet. At one point, she paused and took a moment to look out of the floor-to-ceiling window.>>

<< Being back in NYC was an interesting experience for her. She was ENJOYING being semi-retired, spending more time at Minerva's Aerie with michael and experiencing life in a different lane, but things always had a way of coming back here.>>

<< As she looked out of the window, she thought about the time when she FIRST emerged from protective relocation from Clanedstine Inc, to assist the Six during the emerging Inferno event that her daughter had caused.>>

<< She missed her daughter, but the two had communicated more recently. THe communications were unspoken but on via the bond of mother and child that they shared. Morgan was getting better, feeling like she could return SOONER rather than later.>>

<< That comforted Karen, who like Blaze, had been worried about her for some time. It was time for her to come home. Her REAL home, not that eldritch dimension Limbo. She needed to face the world she was apart of, the reality that had been forever changed by the choices she made.>>

<< She heard the doors opening and turned to see...>>

Hello , Ava.

<< Smiling as she made her way over to her chair.>>

You're a little late.

<< Smiling at she sat down and gestured for Ava to take her seat on the couch>>

And how is Simon Pratt this afternoon?

<< It wasn't hard for Karen to guess where Ava had been before she came here.>>

 

[Persephone]

Knocking on Karen's office door, Ava opened it, peeking her head in. She was running a bit late after loosing track of time while dining with Simon. Their lunch had been fun--a little bit of business mixed with a little bit of pleasure.

Karen: Hello, Ava. You're a little late.

"Hey...sorry. Lunch ran a little long."

Entering the office, Ava closed the door behind her. Placing her purse on the entry table, Ava walked over to the couch and took a seat. Even though she had been here a couple of time before, it was still never easy getting comfortable in a place where you had to bare your soul so to speak.

Karen: And how is Simon Pratt this afternoon?

"He's good....he's doing better after everything that happened last week. He's actually creating an organization to help non-humans against people like the purifiers. I just think he's unsure about how the six will react when he goes public with it....Anyway...how are you?"

It was always an awkward start--these sessions were foreign ground for Ava. She wasn't used to opening up old wounds and letting people look inside. She knew Karen was a professional, but it didn't make it any easier. Crossing her legs, Ava took the glass of water that Karen offered her and took a small sip before placing it on the table in front of her. And so it begins.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Dr. Victoria's office

<< Karen crossed her legs at the knee and held her tablet in hand. She looked over at Ava when the goddess revealed that Simon was starting an organiation to help parahumans against people like the Purifiers. The look on Karen's face said it all as Ava also said Simon was unsure how the Six would take this news.>>

Well I think if he's more than just a pretty face, which he'd HAVE to be to keep YOU entertained << winking at Ava>> He'll do the COURTEOUS thing and inform the Six of this privately before he hosts some MEDIA EVENT about it. I think we both know that Haleigh among others will NOT be happy if they find out about it at the same time as the general public.

<< Ava went on to ask how Karen was. It was a sign that she was settling in, getting more relaxed and not feeling like this was a "doctor appointment" or even a traditional therapy session, which was a GOOD THING.>>

I have moments where I feel like a total stranger in this town. It's hard to believe that just a few years ago, I was running my long standing, successful private practice in Soho...before Bishop. <<sighing>> But being semi-retired definitely suits me, playing a multi-pronged supportive role for the Six, while still having time to pursue my own endeavors is a good fit for me.

<<Nodding with certainty>>


Speaking of what is a good fit, before we go any further, this is just a formality, but I want to state on the record that these meetings are private and confidential. This office is free and clear of any technology that could compromise that confidentiality. You have consented to any diagnostic testing that I may need to run if it becomes necessary.

<< Smiling to Ava with reassurance before lowering the lights a bit. >>

Now then, picking up where we left off the last time, You were expressing that you were haunted and that you felt you were being dragged down, crippled even, but you weren't able to say just by WHAT aloud yet. Because of this, you've been having pattern nightmares and your powers have been FLARING out of control at some moments due to extreme emotional distress.


The "Bus Accident" has been worst result of that so far and you've decided you need to push through your relutance to talk about it. If you're ready, you may begin...


<<Her goal was always to reach a point where she began to blend into the background as it were, her voice acting as a guide for the patient, rather than the patient being keenly focused on HER.>>

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas, she'll be back. She did the right thing by leaving...she knew her limits. She knew she needed to recover from what happened during the Blue Moon and that in order to be able to face a future where things would never be the same due to choices she made and still be effective, she needed this time.

Let's check everything over in her apartment, make sure everything is in order. We'll do one more search around the perimeter of the building afterward before heading back to New York.

The move was wise, but that does not make it any easier. In any case, all of you be what you are meant to be, and do not be too proud to ask for anything...EVER. You have the luxury of enjoying a most effective...CAVALRY.

Nicolas nodded at Sharon's suggestion of wrapping things up. He has already done a preliminary TK scan, but there was nothing sometimes like eyes and ears, especially ones as sensitive as Sharon's. They finished up and walked out to the courtyard, when Nicolas tapped Silver Swan's shoulder, a gleam in his eye.

I have an idea. Let's take the scenic way back, gets some air under us. I will track you and piggyback a bit with my TK and you can air it out while I give the leg muscles a workout. What do you say?

 

[Tachyon]

Alison made her order request and Hazel seemed to leave her selection to him, so he made two of the drink requested by Alison, then poured himself a Scotch on the rocks. He carried the drinks over to the two ladies, already cognizant that he had been 'discussed'.

It was an interesting few days for him. One could do worse than having copious amounts of sex with a pretty Raven-haired sorceress who obviously kept herself in shape and needed tending to. But it was no romance, and that was perfectly FINE with him. He sensed that there was as much an investigation occurring as anything else, that he was an oddity that she was researching as much as enjoying. There WAS, he hoped, a friendship brewing, and he was simply content with being here and hanging out for a bit while having a few extra friendly 'benefits'.

It had been an ordeal, dealing with the loss of those children, battling that monstrosity. It reminded him that many of the stories people told of things that went bump in the night were TRUE, that his investigations had shown him that many myths sold the terrible truths contained in them short. But even then he had lulled himself into sleep as he perfected his skills and played a sort of mystic Robin Hood.

But that time was over. He could no longer operate in simply his niche; he needed to be more front and center, more available for the fight. It was a stroke of fortune that he had been there now...that was a situation that would not be repeated. But for now, he would enjoy himself, get his mind back together. And figure out his next move.

He drank quietly, watching the ladies reconnect and amusing himself with the idea of perhaps getting to enjoy a PAIR of Hemlock-drunken witches. Hey, it could happen. He leaned back, smiling.

 

[Titan]

Outside the hospital

Once the girls left, Sally was all business and she and Andrew went over the day’s numbers before he too left so she could get her rest (as if Sally was going to really do any resting!). He pushed through the revolving door at the front of the hospital into the cool air. He was just about to raise his arm to hail a cab when he noticed a familiar face calling out to him.

"Hey, Drew!"

He smiled.

“Ms. Victoria – I think your lady friends might be jealous if they knew we were secretly meeting like this.”

The smile became a wide grin.

“I’m not in trouble, am I?”

"Do you need a ride back to the Parthenon? While I'm waiting for my car I'd like to chat with you a moment, please."

He made a show of a formal bow.

“Your wish is my command.”

 

[Sybil]

The Island of Aerie

This woman was amazing. He would not leave her with the last word here though...

"Men are rarely necessary, dear Hazel. But we can enrich one's experience, provided you have selected the right man that is."

Xavier walked cooly to the bar, then turned back quickly.

"Care for a drink ladies?"

"Perhaps you are right Xavier. I'll be the first to admit my taste in men over the years has been questionable..fun, sexy and thrilling YES, but QUESTIONABLE."

[thinking for a moment]

"And I would enjoy sipping on some Hemlock. It's watered down baby formula compared to some of my concoctions, but it will do just fine. Thank You..."

"Just what I need...Xavier to live out his "GRADUATE" fantasies."

:: She laughed at her own thought, in spite of herself as she turned around::

"Right this way, you two."

:: Alison lead Xavier and Hazel to the Great Room. She kept a few steps ahead of them and with her back to them, they couldnt see that had a strange look on her face as she listened to Hazel easily befriend Xavier.::

:: When they reached the Great Room in all of its splendor, she turned to face them. Hazel asked if she maintained a proper herb garden::

"You'll find that my herb garden is beyond just about anything else on this side of the globe, not to mention the rest of the flora and fauna that occurrs on this aerie."

:: Alison replied with confidence, knowing that even Hazel would be pleased like a kid in a well stocked candy store at the sight of the gardens::

<< Hazel nodded as the two walked through the halls and towards The Great Room. Alison explained the status of her herb garden. It was music to the witch's ear. >>

"Well thank The Lord and The Lady! So many witches these days have become "designer" forgoing some of the basic tenets of the craft for power mini skirts and dark magick as they walked their paths on the winding way. Learning the basics such as potions and true spellcraft, the meaning behind ritual were important tools. Many witches had been able to be fairly powerful without them, but when faced with a witch who has a deeper understanding of the roots behind the craft, they will find themselves outclassed EVERY TIME."

"My staff is preparing one of the suites for you now, it'll be ready shortly and if there's anything you need, please just let me know. Please be seated"

:: She gestured for them both to sit down as she sat aross from both of them.::

"It's already "the next day" in the western hemisphere, so I won't be disturbing Karen when I reach out to her to let her know you're here."

"Oh please. She needs to be disturbed every now and then. That's why Michael Armstrong is such a good match for her. An aggressive and sometimes cheeky but gentle man seems to be the best suited for Victoria women..."

[smiling somewhat devilishly]

"Which makes sense when compared to men like Christopher. Miserable bastard. The second Karen brought that man home I tried my damndest to persuade her against him..unfortunately, it's one of those scenarios where my intuition told me of the importance of the child they would bare together.."

[she cocked her head to the side as she looked Alison up and down]

"See..? You're not the only one who is privvy to terrible things and must keep her mouth shut..or act with swiftness in order to avoid a greater and more harrowing disaster. I also think that might be part of the reason I'm here, but we can discuss that in the days ahead...when you aren't entertaining such delicious looking guests."

:: Here she was, entertaining guests, a very important woman from her past and a man she had just met a week ago. Alison had been content to live a life of semi-solitude here at Minerva's. Vivica had said it herself, she'd become something of a hermit. But that all stemmed from her cold and distant nature, one that developed in response to her early years...with Kelly King.::

:: But Hazel was the first person to counter act all of that and help Alison to at least ALTER the path she was on. The care and guidance she gave to Alison not only helped ensure that Alison would realize her ultimate destiny, but it would continue to have an effect on her for the rest of her life, even if she had sometimes forgotten.::

:: Alison studied Hazel. With everything that happened, Alison couldn't help but want to make sure this wasn't some cruel illusion or apparition courtesy of Circe or some other foe of the Six's. She "SAW" the timelines leading to/from Hazel and confirmed that this was in fact HER. So there they were...Hazel and Xavier, both here to see Alison and not wanting anything from her, not judging her, not expecting anything from her. If anything, they BOTH wanted to be there for HER, HELP her however they could! Hazel especially.::

:: It was a rare moment and Alison didn't quite know what to do with herself::

:: After all this time and with everything that's happened, Alison was STILL not comfortable with "letting go" even when she'd earned the right to do so!::

::Looking at them both for a moment, Alison slowly inhaled and exhaled before beginning::

"Your timing couldn't have been better, Hazel. There has been alot of activity around here, more so than usual, for the past few months. But right now, things are quiet. Xavier is visiting..."

"Before I send HIM on his way."

"Good Girl."

:: Alison already knew where HE needed to be. She'd been studying HIS time threads and saw where he needed to go in order to make the progress he needed. It was back in New York, but NOT on his own.::

"And I...?"

:: She was having a hard time.::

"...I have an ABUNDANCE of free time on my hands right now."

:: Xavier had gotten up and made his way over to a well stocked bar and began fixing himself a drink, asking Hazel and Alison if they wanted anything. Hazel would probably want Hemlock, which Alison was stocked with and it was a truly CLASSICAL vintage, thanks to Persephone's connections but Alison was actually in the mood for something ELSE, a light, minty MORTAL concoction for a change. ::

"Hmmm, Alycia raved about a "lifesaver" drink she had at the V.I.P. Lounge at The Parthenon. If you're up for playing bartender, I'll have one of those."

"I arrive at Alison Marble's estate to find her frolicking with a boy and drinking club drinks. I have say it's quite a surprising, albeit affirming thing to see. A leopard may not be able to change her spots, but you certainly have untightened your corset."

:: She looked at Hazel and leaned forward, speaking in a MUCH lower tone that only she could hear::

My having him hear is two fold...and NOT just for...CARNAL reasons."

:: KNOWING that Hazel already knew that was certainly part of why he was here::

"Ever since he helped me with my brother and the Purifiers, and the Nimrod, I've wanted to at least return the favor, and I will. Just watch and see."

:: Her colbalt eyes shift over toward where Xavier is for a moment before returning to Hazel ::

"He can drink HEMLOCK and SURVIVE!"

:: Sitting back they waited as he fixed all three of their drinks and returned. Alison reached out to take her's::

"Thank you."

:: One of Alison's staff made her way into the Great Room and quietly indicated to Alison that all the preperations for the suite for Hazel were complete. Alison nodded and thanked her::

"Hazel, you're suite is ready. Do you need any special food for your familiar?"

"Well, you don't have to explain anything to me, dahling. Your life is your own. Though I will say he APPEARS to be sufficiently thanked. I can't wait to see what else you might have up your sleeve."

[upon hearing her suite was ready]

"Oh Apollo most likely won't be staying with me..unless he so desires. He's not of this world but of The Otherworld. He, much like me to you, comes only when he feels I need an added layer of protection or when he senses I need him. Other than that he is free to roam the realms as he wishes..."

<< Apollo sat resting by her side as she brushed his beautiful red grey fur and his brilliant green eyes opened for a second before returning to his slumber. >>

"He's a cheeky little guy to..as most foxes are. I've been told that even Ororo has seen him from time to time in her garden. Exactly what he's doing there I'm not sure..but really, I don't OWN him so I guess that's none of my business!"

[laughing for a second]

"I truly do hope I am not interrupting things. Had I known you had company I would have planned my arrival accordingly..it's just--"

[she spoke in a lower tone that only Alison would be able to hear]

"...Ever since The Blue Moon nearly ended my life I have sensed such an..unsettling feeling that you needed my help. That you were going through something. You know it's not my style or my place to intefere with the grand order and destiny of The Six..but even Ororo herself agreed I should come.."

 

[Longshot]

The Parthenon Hotel - Ambrosia

Ava: "I'm fine."

"Ahh yes..The Ava Cassadine mantra. I know it well."

< Of course she was lying through her pristine white teeth and while Simon desperately tried to switch his glance from unconvinced to accepting of her usual answer to anything regardling her life whatsoever, she opened up a little more, shocking the hell out of him. >

Ava: "No, really...I've been feeling less weighed down lately. I think after everything that happened with those children, I realized that I needed a little...guidance."

"What you need is a straight up intervention and if people weren't so scared of you, they'd have done one already.."

< This was something Simon couldn't understand about The Six. There were so many choices that seemed to affect each other in the worst ways yet nobody had seemed to figure out the benefit of talking about things before they got to the point where they left people in ruin. He had heard random bits of gossip from the others about certain situations and it was clear to him that if any one of them could just learn to actually admit fault or that they needed help, more often then not a LOT of situations would have been halted before they got as bad as they did. It was reasons like this that kept him from going deeper into The Six's orbit. He was a good employee to Cameron, a part time lover to Ava, and a light acquaintance of the rest. They had opened his eyes to a new world, one that he couldn't go back from and while he was grateful, he also perhaps felt a little bitter about it overall. >

"That's not a bad thing to realize..that you need guidance."

< She continued. >

Ava: "You met me at a very unusual time in my life Simon. I may be old as dirt, but I still have hardships."

"And a killer rack..I mean smile...?"

< He flashed a sardonic smile and shrugged a little bit, trying to ease her reservations at admitting something that she would have never told him a few months ago. Something that she still didn't want to tell him now. >

Ava: "I wouldn't worry about it. I promise I'm doing better."

< Simon nodded. >

"Good. That's good to hear. Makes me all [gesturing his hands] tingly inside..."

< He knocked his head back and sighed loudly. >

"Oh you people are turning me into somebody who gives a shit about other people, and I really hate it."

< Simon glanced down at his blinged out watch. >

"Shit. You're late for your appointment yes? I'll settle things here...I'll be at The Fencing Club for a few hours, blow off some steam. Text me later if you feeling like blowing something off too.."

< Laughing the two said a proper and seemingly innocent goodbye, not wanting to draw any more attention to themselves than their "affair" had already gathered as Simon began to finish him meal in silence, ordering another drink and deciding to just relax for a minute by himself before heading to the Fencing Club. >

 

[Chimera]

The Parthenon Hotel - Ambrosia

*Lauren was enjoying the evening with her friends as the wine was flowing and so were the appetizers. None of them were women who gave a second thought to eating whatever they wanted in public. And in a town like New York City, sometimes you had to be like one of the boys to get ahead. You could never underestimate how ordering a steak or a cigar in front of the right person might reveal a new opportunity. It sounded silly, but Lauren had learned that half the battle in her line of work was getting people to like her and trust her. It was something she was incredibly good at.*

"Oh man..I swear it feels at least twenty degrees hotter in this damn hotel since we got here!"

Candice: "I think that's all the wine we've been sipping on dear."

Valerie: "Or not. Think about it..Cameron King probably has the thermostat set to 90 degrees just so the women who stay here will want to shed their layers. Pervert!"

[laughing]

"VAL! I swear I don't know how you got ANYWHERE with that mouth of yours!"

[Valerie smiled]

Valerie: "Well..it certainly wasn't by keeping it shut!"

*The women laughed as similar conversation ensued. All the while, Lauren had managed to keep an eye on Simon and Ava watching their interaction closely. While she wasn't one for gossip journalism, she had to admit the two of them were an intriguing couple. The platinum playboy spending time with the worldly ice queen. It was odd but anyone within a three feet radius of their table could sense those two had chemistry. As she began to scan the restaraunt looking at all the couples and friends gathered together, something struck her. Furrowing her eyebrow, she dropped her white cloth napkin into her plate and rose from her seat.*

"Excuse me ladies..I need to go do a bit of damage control.."

*Walking through the restaraunt she quickly made her way over to Simon's table where he was now sitting alone. But before she stopped there, she made a line to the table next to Simon and flashed a bright hundred watt smile at the woman sitting there.*

"Well Elle Hudson! As I live and breathe! So good to see you!"

*The woman looked a little nervous as the two exchanged an awkward hug and Lauren nodded to the woman sitting next to her.*

Elle: [nervously and falsely sincere] "Oh Hi! Lauren! How are things?!"

"They're good! Great even. The show seems to be doing nicely, so I can't really complain!"

Elle: "Wow! Good to hear..especially after that rant last week on your show! Word on the street was that you got reprimanded pretty harshly."

*Lauren faked a bigger smile and shrugged her shoulders.*

"It was really just a smack on the ass. They know what I bring to the table..Speaking of things brought to the table..."

*She hunched herself over and leaned into the woman speaking in a low and distinct tone.*

"That's a really nice cell phone you have there, Elle. A cell phone that I may have seen out just a few minutes ago while Simon Pratt and his friend Ava Cassadine over there were having dinner?"

Elle: [rolling her eyes] "Oh please Lauren..I know where this is going. You know how this business works.."

*Lauren smirked.*

"I do..I also know how the law works, Elle. Specifically Penal Law 250.00.250.05..Article 250..which states that unless one party to the conversation you were recording consents you are unable to record that conversation without the threat of legal action..I ALSO know about commercial use and the right of publicity..and in terms of press credentials..I happen to have them for the very story I'm a little...concerned you might be trying to scoop me on and bring it to the gossip pages of The New York Star, which is something i'm sure Mr. Pratt and his brand wouldn't be very happy with. Not to mention you're on private property owned by the man who employs Simon Pratt..a man who might not be very keen on reporters recording the patrons of his hotel to use against them in the press, especially since The Parthenon caters to some VERY powerful people in this town..."

*Her eyes shot over to Simon who could very well hear the conversation between the two woman before her cafe au lait eyes shot back to Elle who seemed very uncomfortable and nervous.*

"So YES..I know how this business works, if only because I know HOW to operate within the system and how to get around it the RIGHT way. You are a fun girl..and you're writing is DEFINITELY better than most people working at The Star..but don't start getting in the habit of doing this. It's only gonna send you down to a downward spiral. Look at what happened to Nigel Barker? He's ruined..all because he asked one of Cameron King's friends the wrong question. I will tell you what..you hold off until my interview with Simon and I will garauntee that he sits down for a fluff piece with The Star and that you are the person to interview him.."

*She watched as Elle nodded.*

Elle: "Alright..."

"This is the part where I watch you delete the file from your phone..."

*Lauren watched as Elle deleted the audio file from her phone and ensured Lauren that it was nowhere in some kind of cloud waiting to be released as she bid the two women a far more calm and genuine goodbye before sitting down at Simon Pratt's table, smiling as she crossed her silky legs.*

"So..you might have to sit through a number of questions about your relationship with Ava Cassadine, but at least your whole marketing campaign isn't going to be ruined. You never know who is going to be sitting next to you in this city, Simon. I would have thought someone who comes from a family like yours would know that by now."

Simon: "Thanks for your help...Miss Danvers. Kind of obnoxious and ballsy of you..but thank you."

*Lauren smiled as she took a look at Simon. He smelled good, was a perfect dresser..a giant egomaniac and probably incredibly mentally unstable. For all intents and purposes he was just the kind of guy that Lauren found herself attracted to. It was the very reason that as of late she had stopped dating altogether. But her intention was not to flirt with Simon.*

"You're welcome, but i'm not obnoxious. I'm just smart..and a career woman. You come on my show with an announcement that everyone in town has already heard? Doesn't look very good for me..and from what I have gleamed from my own sources...your new cause seems to be a good one. It should have the unveiling you want it to..and that certainly isn't in the gossip rags.."

*She rose from her chair and leaned in, giving Simon a peck on the cheek before grabbing his hand.*

"Pleasure to finally meet you, Simon. Now if you'll excuse me I must be getting back to my friends..."

*Lauren began to walk away before turning her head and calling back to him as she went.*

"And do us both a favor...and stop talking until you're in front of my camera!"

 

[Recall]

New York City

:: It was such a relief to see such a bright eyed and healthy looking Sally. The night that they were attacked by The Purifiers with Vivica hovering over a brutalized fashion maven she had looked so different. It had been harrowing to think that even a woman who was as full of life as Sally Spectra could be taken down like anyone else and that light, that energy extinguished. There had been so much blood. A biproduct of Vivica's ability was that it caused her to be somewhat of a worrywart, being able to replay the scene over and over in her head in perfect detail. Her visit with Sally had brought a strong resolution to a very bad and grizzly situation. ::

:: As everybody said their goodbyes Vivica had the pressing need to want to get out of the hospital and back into her own life. Her last encounter with The Six had made her very resolved to not necessarily put herself in situations with many of them unless she had to. Not that she had anything to worry about with Cassandra and Blaze, it was just that she felt that if she let herself get too close to anyone deeply affiliated with that group she might end up feeling burned and she had come too far to go through something like that again. Her strange trip outside of time and space with Morgan had one of great healing and there was now too much at stake to revert back to her old feelings of bitterness and unappreciation. ::

:: Still..she knew that Cassandra was new to everything and historically the way that people treated newcomers into The Six was rather lukewarm. She probably needed a friend that wasn't so closely tied to everything. That and Vivica just liked Cassandra and wanted to get to know her better. Vivica saw that despite how long she had been around, Cassandra seemed to look at the world with new eyes. She was excited by things that people often took for granted. There was something very sweet and genuine about that. As the two made their way out of the medical facility, Vivica approached Cassandra. ::

"Hey girl! I don't know if you have any plans or not..but I was wondering if you might like to come visit my studio? It's not as fancy as my gallery, but it's right down the street from my flat. I could uncork a bottle of champagne, mix up some colors and maybe we could work on some art together! I'm working on a new exhibit and to be honest, sometimes I go a little stir crazy in there by myself. Whaddya say?"

 

[Firebird]

In the car

He smiled.


“Ms. Victoria – I think your lady friends might be jealous if they knew we were secretly meeting like this.”


The smile became a wide grin.

Blaze lifted her eyebrows and her apple green eyes sparkled with intrigue as Andrew greeted her.

"Ha ha! I think not!"

Smirking as he grinned at her.

"My 'lady friends' and I like the same thing YOU like, if you know what I mean!"

Winking at him. He did have a way of winning even the toughest person over. He HAD to if he was able to charm Delilah, given how she'd been acting.

"No, there's no trouble."

Smiling at him as she took a moment to study him up close.

"If anything, I should apologize for being so distant and aloof toward you the last week. We work in the same fashion house and we both care deeply for Sally. I haven't been as welcoming as I should have been. I'm sorry about that. "

The black car arrives and the driver opens the back door and Blaze climbs in. Once seated, she leans forward and motions for Andrew to get in.

"Hop in!"

Once Andrew was inside, the driver closed the door and returned to the front.

"To the Parthenon, please!"

Blaze purshes a button and the window between the front and back end of the car closes up, giving them privacy.

And soon, the car slowly pulled out of the circle drive and off they went. Blaze reached forward and immediately helped herself to a glass of champagne from the bar.

"Care for a little drinky poo? It's always after 5 somewhere!"

After a long, satisfying first drink, Blaze immediately pours another one and sits back and looks at Andrew.

"So! How've you been? I mean after the confrontation with the Purifiers? I understand that was when you first found out YOU were a mutant?"

 

[Harbinger]

Minerva's Mansion- Great Room


How can any witch worth her salt NOT understand the value, the NEED of being well versed in potion making or the art of spellcasting and incantation? Why...in the event of a magickal "black out" like the Blue Moon or something [hopefully] less life threatening, being able to make potions or having access to magickal ingredients to bridge the gap can make all the difference!

:: Alison had prooven this when, in the absence of Spellbinder, she could provide healing with any number of potions and elixirs she had made. Now it was apparent where Alison had learned the art of making potions and elixirs. It certainly wasn't from Kelly.::

"I arrive at Alison Marble's estate to find her frolicking with a boy and drinking club drinks. I have say it's quite a surprising, albeit affirming thing to see. A leopard may not be able to change her spots, but you certainly have untightened your corset."

:: Alison looked away, blushing a bit. Hazel made it sound so easy, and for many people, it WAS. But for Alison, "loosening up her corset" was often a luxury she didn't think she could afford, and there were many reasons why. Still, it was rather nice to have her mentor and surrogate mother figure point out that she had come a ways in that.::

"Oh please. She needs to be disturbed every now and then. That's why Michael Armstrong is such a good match for her. An aggressive and sometimes cheeky but gentle man seems to be the best suited for Victoria women..."


[smiling somewhat devilishly]


"Which makes sense when compared to men like Christopher. Miserable bastard. The second Karen brought that man home I tried my damndest to persuade her against him..unfortunately, it's one of those scenarios where my intuition told me of the importance of the child they would bare together.."


[she cocked her head to the side as she looked Alison up and down]


"See..? You're not the only one who is privvy to terrible things and must keep her mouth shut..or act with swiftness in order to avoid a greater and more harrowing disaster. I also think that might be part of the reason I'm here, but we can discuss that in the days ahead...when you aren't entertaining such delicious looking guests."

:: Hazel always seemed to know just what to say to bridge the gap.::


You always said that KNOWING was just one part of it. CHOOSING whether to say/do something was critical and not being afraid to make the hard choices. I never was, and you knew that. BUT there was one thing you tried teaching me that I always secretly hoped that I would avoid. The possibility of doing the wrong thing for the right reason...of making a mistake. Either that, or having the wisdom and even the serenity to know that even though you have the power to solve/fix a situation, you MUST NOT.


:: Hazel informed Alison that Apollo would likely NOT be staying with her. The precog looked at the beautiful, mysterious fox as he lay next to Hazel. He traveled far and wide, even being able to visit Ororo in her garden oasis! Still, despite his unique nature, he was adorable to behold. Hazel did not regard him as pet though.::

Well, he's certainly welcomed here. The island has much to offer in the way of flora and should he need to rest undisturbed, he can stay with you in your spacious suite. I dont have a familiar, but Morgan does. A beautiful siamese cat that is her enchanted familiar. She too travels far and wide, having made a few visits here recently while Morgan is off-world.

"I truly do hope I am not interrupting things. Had I known you had company I would have planned my arrival accordingly..it's just--"


[she spoke in a lower tone that only Alison would be able to hear]


"...Ever since The Blue Moon nearly ended my life I have sensed such an..unsettling feeling that you needed my help. That you were going through something. You know it's not my style or my place to intefere with the grand order and destiny of The Six..but even Ororo herself agreed I should come.."

:: Alison moved forward and extended her hand, taking Hazel's hand.::

You're not interrupting anything. I'm GLAD you're here!

Knowing that you nearly died during the Blue Moon makes it all the more a good thing that you're here now. We knew that it was affecting witches and magick users across the world...but we were faced with Circe's attempt to return to earth, using THIS PLACE as her focal point, so we didn't have the opportunity to check on anyone else...with the losses I have sustained, I'm DEEPLY relieved to know that you are not among them.

And me? well...I didn't emerge unscathed. Not by a longshot.

:: She said with a gloomy countenance on her face::

But I've been working to recover from that. The world doesnt stop even when I've done something so terrible[ but necessary] that someone I cared about now wants to see me dead over it. and quite honestly, if I had it to do all over again, I would NOT have done anything because this person is an insane IDIOT who has no regard for her own life and was quite content to throw it away.

:: the BITTERNESS in Alison's tone was quite apparent to Hazel and Xavier, as the precog almost seemed to forget they were looking at her. The thought of Delilah and her ridiculous, unreleasitic, suicidal behavior just PISSED HER OFF TO NO END!::

EVERYONE around her is at a loss to what to do because she made it IMPOSSIBLE for them to help her. We'd be better off if she'd DIED!

 

[Titan]

Blaze's Limo

"My 'lady friends' and I like the same thing YOU like, if you know what I mean!"

“Cheese & Onion Tayto crisps and Guinness?”

He grinned and feigned stretching.

“They just haven’t been exposed to my awesome powers of seduction.”

He wagged his eyebrows over at Blaze good naturedly and laughed.

"If anything, I should apologize for being so distant and aloof toward you the last week. We work in the same fashion house and we both care deeply for Sally. I haven't been as welcoming as I should have been. I'm sorry about that. "

“Think nothing of it - I didn’t take offense. You had no reason to be my bestie especially with Sally’s attack on your mind – and if trying to help Sally out during this time has shown me anything it’s how little time for pleasantries you have.”

Andrew followed Blaze into the car. He liked her – she was a straight shooter. And she didn’t mind a drink, clearly. But he still wondered what she would want to speak to him about.

"Care for a little drinky poo? It's always after 5 somewhere!"

He held up a hand.

“That’s a bit fancy for my tastes, but ta.”

"So! How've you been? I mean after the confrontation with the Purifiers? I understand that was when you first found out YOU were a mutant?"

He pulled a face, thinking for a second.

“Well, you know – no worries, right? I just wanted to make sure the people who did this to Sally paid for it, and that’s done, so…”

He sat up in the seat and leaned forward.

“It’s all a bit mental, though. It’s not like I shoot laser bolts out of my eyes or breathe fire or something like that. I’m not sure being good at sport qualifies me as a mutant…but if it means I can protect Sally, I guess it’s all good, right? I mean, it’s not like I’m different than I was last week.”