Firebird's dilemma

[Firebird]

Spectra Couture- Morgan's office

First of all, there are several key differences already between those timelines. While D and the witches ARE estranged, Cameron and Karen have been there for her and we do not have two more capable people to help mental anguish than those two. Ma can help her empirically and as a Mother Figure and Cam should be able to detect serious warning signs a mile away. So we can relax THAT talk honey.

Blaze watched Nicolas intently with her apple green eyes for a moment, before her gaze shifted to a parge, framed picture of Morgan, herself, Nicolas and Sally Spectra on the wall. A picture from the "grand opening" of Spectra Couture.

As she stared at the picture, she still heard and listened to Nicolas' words, but her apple green eyes sparkled with intent as she zeroed in on herself and Morgan in the picture...and eventually just Morgan.

"Can I, Nicolas? I'm sorry...but so many people in this timeline...they seem so petty and SELFISH...and so willing to throw a life time of friendship away over the smallest thing. I thought...I thought that after what you all had seen in MY timeline...you'd understand...but that night..."


Exhaling with annoyance as she stands up and walks around from the desk, pacing slowly.


"Oh what's the use...nothing anybody could have done would have changed anything. It just looks like Delilah never truly trusted Alison or Morgan."


"& Morgan and Alison...I know they were hurt...but they've completely turned their backs on Delilah...on US. How's ANYTHING supposd to get resolved like this!? "

"I don't care what Delilah says...I've SEEN what can happen when she's "left alone"...we're FAMILY and yet THIS Six hardly acts like it! Why did I come here? At least in my own timeline...we appreciated each other and learned not to sweat the small stuff because we SAW just HOW BAD things could get!"

He finished his drink and set it on Morgan's desk, then returned his gaze to the fire elemental. She was JUST as in tune with her sister as the Foxfire from this time, but she was so much more at the same time. He was impressed with her in a brand new way and he did not want her to lose faith and step back from the growth he had seen in her. He lifted her chin to look into her eyes.


I miss Morgan as well Blaze. And I know how much she means to you, to both of us. But she WILL be back. Tinkerbell has been visiting me regularly and while she cannot talk, she lets me know that things are OK. If that changes she will let me know and I will return to Limbo to help her if need be. But for now she needs this time to gather herself.

Blaze eyed him curiously. He seemed perfectly willing to travel to Limbo, despite the dangers that were posed to anyone OTHER than Morgan and Ororo. His love for her was stronger than even he may have known. But it was not lost on Blaze. THIS was one thing that was better HERE than in her timeline...where HER Nicolas had been turned into a violent psychic hound shortly before Morgan's disappearence.

He looked off, out of the window as he continued.

Leading this team is a hell of a burden. I once wondered why I never led the team, but the truth is that I will never be able to do what she does. Morgan has earned the trust of the entire team, the ability to say to gods and goddesses to make something happen and have it happen. As long as I am the spawn of Set I will never have that level of trust. I cannot imagine how it must feel to be at that place and have it shattered the way it was with Delilah. That is a blow that takes time to recover from and may never be fully healed.

"That's just IT though, Nic. Did she REALLY have everyone's trust?"

Nicolas would no doubt know what or WHOM she was referring to

"I've seen Morg take alot of crap from team mates before on Valiant and even in the early days of the Six."

"But you know...sometimes in the midst of life threatening emergencies...you take the action you deem necessary without thinking about it or asking or saying anything because all that's on your mind is saving a life...or the world. You dont think about it...you just ACT and you hope that your loved ones...the people that you think know you and understand you the most will see your heart and your true motives. Morgan was counting on that and she got one hell of a surprise didn't she?"


"If there was ANYTHING I could have done to set EVERYTHING right for Delilah...for all three of them...I would have. even if I had to give a piece of my soul to do it!"

"But there was nothing anybody could do and rather than pull together...a core part of the team just BLEW APART in front of us...and Nicolas...I didnt see anything but malice and distrust...i didnt see anything that suggested that no matter what...we'd stick together and see each other through this...some how."

"What could I have done....what could ANYBODY have done?"

"Now Morgan's gone, Alison has turned her back and Delilah...no matter what any of us says or does...she's always going to hold us responsible for what she feels was Alison kidnapping her baby! We know that's not what it was...but we're not HER...it's so different for her!"

"I feel useless."


Sinking back down into her chair

He looks back at Blaze.

But she knows that she is not alone, that we are here for her and awaiting her return. She also knows that at some point I will come back for her should she be too long. But we have to be patient and trust that she will return to us as she said she would. MEANWHILE....

Bowing her head, she knew Nicolas was right. But she also knew he didn't quite understand ALL of the reasons why all of this felt so WRONG to her.

Nicolas stands up and pulls Blaze to her feet.

Take a bow dear!! You have been doing absolutely great in this position. When Morgan comes back I may have to steal you for some projects for my business. As for now, what can I do to make this easier. Shopping? Partying?

Nicolas had a gleam in his eye and he was intent on trying to cheer up the fire elemental. This normally was very easy but he had a feeling that it might take an extra effort. He was certainly game for that, at least it took his mind off his own sense of temporary loss.

Blaze looked up at Nicolas. She stared into his deep brown eyes with her own apple green eyes. He was doing his best to help her, steady her and encourage her. For that, she was appreciative. But there was something else....something that she hadn't said....something that she didnt think even HE would understand.

She was careful to keep her emotions collected and her thoughts steady. He could hear thoughts...but Blaze had been trained by one of the best telepaths in her timeline (Cameron King)in the art of keeping certain thoughts CONCEALED when necessary and right now, for her sake as well as his, that was just what she was doing.::

"... Let me just send this batch off to Sally via email and then we can lock up and knock off early."

"I need to stop by Morg's and change before we go shopping...."

Smiling a bit as her apple green eyes sparkled once more

"On YOUR dime of course..."

Breaking out into the refrain of one of her favorite songs...

"...cause we are living, in a material world! I am a material GIRL!"

She playfully pokes Nicolas in his side with her finally manicured finger nail as she laughs a bit

"Shopping can cure almost ANY ailment!"

 

[Artemis]

The northern side of Minerva's Mansion

:: Her return to The Six during the Blue Moon saw alot of things about her life with the Six come full circle. Everything from now being to stand among them as a true PEER in terms of power, to more personal and nuanced issues involving herself and Cameron and now here with Michael. They'd both stood by the Six as baseline humans and they'd suffered because of it, but still there was no place else either would rather have been.::

:: Now she was an Amazon and he had received a new level of capability with the help of a technological gem designed by Haleigh Davidoff in the form of battle armor, not to mention the shotgun charmed by Shadow Weaver's dark magick. He was a brave man and she realized in the weeks that she'd spent with him, helping him with various tasks, just how much she DIDN'T appreciate his courage before. But after the blue moon, she certainly did now.::


:: Pre-dawn training sessions were par for the course with Alycia during her time on Themyscira, so Michael relished in having a training partner that he didn't have to drag out of bed (Karen ) or admonish not to come dressed to battle in high heels (Blaze) OR think she was above the need for training (Alison)- all though those three had come far in allowing themselves to be physically honed by Michael in a way that even surprised him. Alycia, on the other hand, was another story all together. She matched him and challenged him to reach a new level with each session.::

:: If only HALEIGH could see her now.::

:: The were now nearing the end of their target practice session::

Six targets fired into the air in a spread pattern. Mike raised his hand, signalling that he was taking high. Alycia took low and 5 of the targets were gone in a second. There was one left off to the left and he yelled instinctively.

10!

Rotating smoothly, Alycia fired a bolt that vaporized the pigeon inches from it hitting the ground. An awesome shot. She managed a small smile as she looked at him, hand on one hip. He shook his head.

You are the god-DAMNED devil. Great shooting...what the hell is a Charope by the way? Never mind. Damn good job "Licia. Ready for more targets?

:: Staying in form for a moment, before standing down, Alycia lowered her special weapon, the Silver Bow, a gift from Artemis that could fire "arrow shafts" of Zeus' divine lightning bolts. As she relaxes her grip on her weapon, the silver bow sparkles and vanishes with a soft chime. Alycia herself laughs as she tucks some of her raven locks behind her ear and looks over at Michael::

"Charope" is an Amazonian name. It means "Brilliant confrontation". Hypolite decided that was an apt code-name as well as an honorary Amazonian name for me, given my background in the legal realm as well as my newfound physical skills as an Amaon.

You're very kind Michael, and I thank you. I use the gifts and physical skills given me by the Amazons and the goddesses in the hope that I can do far more in this world than I ever could before.

Being back here...among The Six...it feels right and yet...so many things are not what I expected.

:: on a more somber note::

I'm heartbroken for Delilah.

I'm STUNNED over the fall out between Morgan, Alison and Delilah. As long as I've known them...THAT IS THE LAST group dynamic associated with the Six I EVER would have thought would come apart.

::Shaking her head::

I'm sure it's on everyone's mind too...as we struggle to understand make sense of it all.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Melrose Place- Delilah's apartment

Delilah laid her cheek on the cushion of the white slipcovered sofa. Her head just felt so heavy.

“I don’t doubt you, Karen. I just need to get back to my normal routine.”

<< Karen watched as Delilah sat, then slightly lay on the couch. She knew that Delilah was far from completely recovered. Her body language, her tone of voice, even her countenance all suggested that she was still in the midst of a long, slow journey down an uncertain road. One that, no matter how Karen, Cameron or anyone else might try to help, Delilah would have to walk alone. BUT that didn't mean that Karen, Cameron and the others couldn't help light the way if nothing else. If only Delilah would let them.>>

<< Karen slowly walks by Delilah, gently stroking her hair as she moves to take a seat in a chair near the wall>>

None of our lives, dear Delilah, are routine.

But as you seek to find your new place in the aftermath...rest assured that Cameron and I, not to mention those amongst your team...your family...will be on hand to help light the wawy for you.

That's all we want you to be sure of right now. The rest...will come to you.

<< At that moment, there was a knock at the door...>>

 

[Silver Swan]

Melrose Place- Delilah's apartment

[ Sharon Kelly and Cassandra Johnson carefully enter into Delilah's apartment]

Greetings Karen, Delilah.

[ Sharon greets them both before moving forward and extending her hand to Delilah, squeezing the mutants hand in her own]

We have come to welcome you home, Delilah.

[ Sharon says as she seats herself near Karen.]

[ Sharon was well aware of how delicate things were for Delilah. The last time she was here, it was as Delilah's mid-wife. Now things were completely different. But the one thing Sharon wanted Delilah to know was that she wasn't completely alone. She may have had to walk her own path, but there were people among her that understood something of what she had endured. ]

[ If there was one thing Sharon hoped to impress upon Delilah, it was that she still had a chance...had a reason to hold on to HOPE, but now was not the time to say such things. Though several weeks had passed, it was still "too soon". She was still reforming.]

 

[Ruby]

Melrose Place - Delilah's Apartment

:: Cass had just finished her tea when Sharon came to get to her. She placed her mug in the sink and followed Sharon to Delilah's apartment. She couldn't help but feel slightly nervous. Delilah was MORGAN'S friend after all, no matter what had happened between the two. Sharon knocked and then opened the door. Cass cautiously followed her in, looking around at everything as if she were scared that Morgan would come in and attack her just for BEING in Delilah's apartment. ::

Greetings Karen, Delilah.

[ Sharon greets them both before moving forward and extending her hand to Delilah, squeezing the mutants hand in her own]

We have come to welcome you home, Delilah.

:: Cass nodded and, with a small smile, she followed suit but instead of squeezing the young woman's hand, she squeezed her shoulder lightly before taking a seat on a soft loveseat opposite Delilah. She knew a bit of what Delilah was feeling. She may not be a mother herself but she did lose her entire family in the blink of an eye, much like what happened to Delilah. She felt awkward. She looked at Delilah. ::

*awkwardly*: "I'm sorry I didn't come and visit you while I was at the Parthenon; Cameron was a hard ass in the Danger Room...otherwise I would've come."

 

[Arsenal]

"Charope" is an Amazonian name. It means "Brilliant confrontation". Hypolite decided that was an apt code-name as well as an honorary Amazonian name for me, given my background in the legal realm as well as my newfound physical skills as an Amaon.

So they essentially named you PRETTY SHINY ARGUMENT? Now it all becomes clear.

Mike laughs a bit as he gives her a half-joking 'once-over'. Alycia knew she was fine and a little bit of flirting never hurt ANYBODY. Then everything got serious...FAST.

You're very kind Michael, and I thank you. I use the gifts and physical skills given me by the Amazons and the goddesses in the hope that I can do far more in this world than I ever could before.

Being back here...among The Six...it feels right and yet...so many things are not what I expected.

:: on a more somber note::

I'm heartbroken for Delilah.

I'm STUNNED over the fall out between Morgan, Alison and Delilah. As long as I've known them...THAT IS THE LAST group dynamic associated with the Six I EVER would have thought would come apart.

::Shaking her head::

I'm sure it's on everyone's mind too...as we struggle to understand make sense of it all.

I know what you mean. and admittedly I was not helpful that night, but I was in my OWN tough place. I am more at peace on it now thanks to Doc sticking by me. And I cannot thank you ENOUGH for accompanying me as I informed the families about the deaths we had. You made that part much easier.

He looked out into the sky a second and then back at Alycia.

As for the fallout with Dee, I don't see how it could have been avoided, looking back. It appears that she has been holding us in varying degrees of hidden contempt at least since RIGHT before she met Bishop. Everything she said the night Alexia was born is everything she has said before. Nic is a demon who cannot be trusted and undeserving of Morgan. I am a flatscan temporary plaything for Karen. The Six never considers the results of their actions and no one trusts her. So we cannot dismiss it as simply her being upset. These are deep-seated feelings she has been holding in and at some point, we will need to address them all.

Mike stopped suddenly, his nostrils slightly flared. He leaned in suddenly and whispered in Alycia's ear.

Cam's coming. I can smell his cologne. He is cool people for sure but I can GUARANTEE you that he is not here for me. I think he wants to have a...what is that?...a brilliant confrontation.

By now Mike was laughing his ass off at the pretty amazon...

 

[MorningStar]

Melrose Place, Apartment #1

None of our lives, dear Delilah, are routine.

Unfortunately…

Karen’s well-meaning lecture came to a blessed end…just in time for two more guests to arrive. She wasn’t exactly upset about Sharon and Cass’ arrival…it just meant she had to keep up the façade longer than she had anticipated.

“Hi Sharon.”

Delilah also waved to Ruby, who entered behind her.

We have come to welcome you home, Delilah.

The hybrid squeezed her hand. Delilah took it as a good sign that she didn’t break it. Ruby awkwardly squeezed her shoulder. She looked as if she would rather be ANYWHERE than in Delilah’s apartment at that particular moment. Delilah couldn’t blame the poor girl.

"I'm sorry I didn't come and visit you while I was at the Parthenon; Cameron was a hard ass in the Danger Room...otherwise I would've come."

Delilah gave her a wan smile.

“There was no need. Your training is more important.”

She sat up a little in her seat. Picking up one of the decorative pillows on the sofa, she squeezed it to her chest.

“And I wanted to thank you for your help on Aerie. Both of you.”

Delilah made eye contact with Sharon as she finished speaking, so she would know she was being genuine. They had done their best to protect her, and that was worth recognizing.

 

[Prophet]

Minerva's Mansion - Northern Estate

Cameron was truly enjoying himself with his sister and Ava. The last six months or so had seen him somewhat revert from the world of The Six and
focus incredibly hard on restoring himself to the 'real world' and while it was most DEFINITELY needed, it felt good to be amongst people that he didn't necessarily have to watch his words or thoughts about. People who truly knew who he was.

It's been a joy to have you here, you've helped me more than I can say and you're always welcomed. Both of you. But I have plenty of things to
catch up on that will keep me busy for the coming weeks, including an expedition to Pammukale, Turkey. The locals and even some scientists and
archeologists are all up in arms about the discovery of "the gateway to hell". They're calling it "Pluto's Gate".

OBVIOUSLY this is incorrect, since Doom's Doorway is located on Themyscira. BUT there IS an artifact located at "Pluto's Gate" that I need to retrieve before one of the archeologists does and ends up transforming into the Exemplar, Inferno.

:: It all sounded perfectly normal and even a bit exciting for Alison, HARBINGER- The Keeper of Time and the guardian of the secrets of the
world, even as Ava and Cameron stared at her in disbelief for a few moments.::

What? You have your real estate to check out...I have an ancient, powerful fire based talisman to retrieve before some over ambitious, fool hardy
mortal gets his hands on it and becomes a problem THE SIX has to deal with.

:: She smiled. Obviously this and any number of other tasks- whether urgent or not- would be used by her to delay and avoid ANY possible
necessity of returning to the States or any where near Delilah.::

:: Undaunted, Alison continued on...::

Besides, I see some GREAT things ahead for both of you upon your return to the states. We wouldnt want any of that to be derailed by a "Six
matter".

Cameron smirked at his sister as she spoke of her 'duties' coming up. While he knew they were merely to serve as a distraction from her truly
dealing with what had happened with Delilah..at least she would be venturing OFF the island.

"Ah yes, Sister! And then once you come back from THAT terribly important mission..I've got another for you. I can't remember the last time anybody
has counted all of the STONES that make up the mansion!"

He was merely joking. He knew what she did was important, but he also knew that she was simply trying to keep herself busy.

"I mean.. that could keep you from the states for MONTHS!"

[smiling]

"That being said.. I expect you to visit me by the end of the month. All of your Penthouses rennovations have been completed to your specifications and not a ONE of you has visited me to check them OUT!"

The girls began to poke fun of him about Alycia as Ava nudged the vodka bottle forward and made kissy faces. He rolled his eyes, but grabbed the bottle anyway, refreshing his own drink. He was definitely feeling a little buzzed.

"Oh Ava...haven't you seen by now? The ladies of The Six can't HELP but be attracted to me..but I can't blame 'em! They're just confused! They don't know whether to slap me in the face or kiss me..and many have done BOTH!"

[Cameron laughs loudly]

"When you're done trying to seduce her...There's one other thing I'd like to talk to you about. But ther's time, so go see her and I'll see you later..."

"Well then! On that note! I'm off!"

[grabbing the bottle of vodka and kissing his sister on the cheek and giving Ava a hug before he left]

"And i'll see you later tonight! It WOULD be nice to have a little dinner put together... just saying!"

Cameron smiled as he began to track over to the Northern part of the estate. From a distance he could see Mike and Alycia speaking to each other. He had a newfound respect for BOTH of them as when the chips were down and MANY of the uber powerful people on the team were dispatched or simply de-powered, it was Mike and Alycia that bridged the gap...and together, the three, along with Firebird worked FLAWLESSLY together to fight back the bestiamorph's and stall Circe's magick just LONG enough to allow Morgan and Nicolas to do what needed to be done.

A smile curled up in his lips as he approached them, able to hear what they were talking about. He shouted a bit.

"It's $300 cologne! For THAT kind of money, the DEAD better be able to smell it!"

Within moments he was standing next to the two, feeling overall VERY happy about life, thanks in part to the vodka in his system, but moreso just reaping the benefits of all the work he had put into himself for the last year or so. For the first time in his life... he was secure in himself. He was HAPPY, and he would do WHATEVER was in his power to help the others find their 'HAPPY'

[embracing Mike in a playful 'chokehold']

"Shows what YOU know, Mike! I'm ACTUALLY here to steal you from Dr. V and run away together! Don't fight it!"

Laughing he let go of his embrace and gave Mike a good strong handshake, before turning to face Alycia, embracing her in a warm and strong hug.

"Oh Alycia! You weren't supposed to see that!"

[laughing, he rose the bottle of vodka in the air]

"You know.. I was sitting there in Los Angeles, and I thought to myself..why not take a mini vacation to get the residents of Aerie a little DRUNK. I've already started work on Alison and Ava..."

[leaning in, he whispered in Alycia's ear...his lips a little dangerously close to her ear lobe]

"It's fantastic to see you love...forgive my current state of tipsiness.."

Turning back to face the both of them...

"Now... How the HELL are you guys?"

 

[Persephone]

It was quite lovely to be able to just relax with the people she now considered her family. Even Cameron. These people were the main reason she was able to get through what the had endured for those months earlier. Although it was painful to see a rift between Delilah, Morgan, and Alison....but it was moments like these that made that rift seem like it could potentially heal in the future.

Alison began to discuss having some work of her own to tend to. Some National Treasure type of mission that Ava raised an amused eyebrow to. If she didn't know any better, Alison was becoming the damn Tomb Raider. Nodding slowly, Ava couldn't help but chuckle through her words.

"Well then, go on with your bad self."

Alison could tell both her and Cameron were pretty amused with the venture she had planned, but she explained that if she didn't go then it would become a problem for the six later. In that case, GO. The six had enough damn problems already. But something Alison said also struck a chord with Ava. She said good things were to come for both her and Cameron. A positive change for once? It actually put a small smile on her face. It had been nothing but turbulence and pain for months, to actually hear that something GOOD was going to happen was welcomed.

Cameron picked up the bottle of vodka, preparing to head off to meet with Alycia. Alycia. That was just an ODD pairing. Then again, Alycia and Ava's relationship [if you could call it that] was unique considering their history. So frankly, any six man being interested in her sexual was odd.

Cameron: "Oh Ava...haven't you seen by now? The ladies of The Six can't HELP but be attracted to me..but I can't blame 'em! They're just confused! They don't know whether to slap me in the face or kiss me..and many have done BOTH!"

"Oh I would just slap you. No need to get confused darling."

She quipped; grinning playfully.

"Have fun, Cameron."

She stated as he said goodbye and went off to find Alycia.

Alison: So, Ava... it sounds like you're really looking to take root back in New York. This is all going to help pull Morgan back to NYC too, you know. Deep down that's where she really wants to be...

"Yes....Los Angeles is just....awful. [coughing out a small laugh] I've always been very fond of New York, and was quite disappointed when Morgan decided to move the hub to LA. But I understand why it had to be that way. So I've decided that I want to move my businesses to New York permanently. I might even take up residence in The Parthenon considering my apartment has been taken over by that vampire."

The first indication that Ava did NOT like vampires. She had a long history with them....and frankly, wished they'd all burn in the sunlight. BUT, she understood Cass was now apart of the team, so she kept her opinions to herself.

Alison: Speaking of Morgan...her sister, Blaze...Firebird...how has she been? I offered her to come here to visit anytime...but she's been so withdrawn since Morgan's departure. I think we all tend to forget...that she's NOT our original Blaze and that she suffered a serious trauma the night HER Morgan, Alison and Delilah fell out. It was the fear of losing Morgan AGAIN that prompted her to leap through a disc, risking the danger of LIMBO to somehow get to Mainstream Earth to find US.

"Truthfully Alison, I have no idea. I know she's upset because of what has happened, and distraught about Morgan leaving....but she's basically been living at work. Anytime I DO venture back to Melrose Place to check in on things, she's not there. I think it's her way of keeping her mind off everything and coping."

 

[Arsenal]

"It's $300 cologne! For THAT kind of money, the DEAD better be able to smell it!"

Within moments he was standing next to the two, feeling overall VERY happy about life, thanks in part to the vodka in his system, but moreso just reaping the benefits of all the work he had put into himself for the last year or so. For the first time in his life... he was secure in himself. He was HAPPY, and he would do WHATEVER was in his power to help the others find their 'HAPPY'

[embracing Mike in a playful 'chokehold']

"Shows what YOU know, Mike! I'm ACTUALLY here to steal you from Dr. V and run away together! Don't fight it!"

Shit...Karen would kill you before I could let you down easy Richie Rich.

Mike gave Cam a hearty handshake and licked his lips mockingly at Alycia as Cameron gave her a LONG hug, trying not to laugh again.

"Oh Alycia! You weren't supposed to see that!"

[laughing, he rose the bottle of vodka in the air]

"You know.. I was sitting there in Los Angeles, and I thought to myself..why not take a mini vacation to get the residents of Aerie a little DRUNK. I've already started work on Alison and Ava..."

Then give up the bottle Cam! You have already made one hell of a dent.

Mike turned it up, taking in a good swallow of the cool liquid. He felt it roll down and warm his belly as he passed it on to Alycia.

Your turn....Charope.

This was going to be fun. In fact, he was ready to HAVE more fun. Maybe a 'guy's night out' would do the trick. He filed the thought away for later on.

 

[Rampage]

Blaze was doing the look, when she was thinking but hoping like hell you would not pry too much. Very well...he would not pry (mentally or otherwise), and her training made reading her harder than normal in any case and he did not feel like the exertion.

"... Let me just send this batch off to Sally via email and then we can lock up and knock off early."

"I need to stop by Morg's and change before we go shopping...."

Smiling a bit as her apple green eyes sparkled once more

"On YOUR dime of course..."

Breaking out into the refrain of one of her favorite songs...

"...cause we are living, in a material world! I am a material GIRL!"

She playfully pokes Nicolas in his side with her finally manicured finger nail as she laughs a bit

"Shopping can cure almost ANY ailment!"

He began to smile wider as she went on. Sometimes it was nice to be able to buy a little happiness for the ones you cared for. he laughed finally as she sang and ushered her out of the office.

Very well Red. If you want you can even drive the Bugatti. But try NOT to scratch her.

Nicolas ushered her down the express elevator and to his baby. He hesitated, and then tossed her the keys.

 

[Artemis]

Minerva's Aerie

:: Alycia listened to Michael. She sensed the resentment he felt toward Delilah, toward the the fact that at any given moment ANY of them could throw in his face that he was...[ as she so often said about herself] "Only human."::

Mike...

:: She reaches forward, placing a hand on his arm::

I know what you're feeling. I felt it many times through the years runing with this group. It's unavoidable when you're a baseline human amongst mutants, witches, metahumans and the like.

I used to reflexively short change myself with the phrase..."only human". Ironically enough, it was a person who i once despised the most, that helped me break OUT of that bad habit. Haleigh. She gave me more credit, even when I was a rival or adversary in her eyes, than I sometimes gave myself.

The fact that I stand before you now as an Amazon? That is nothing short of a "divine intervention"....literally. ATHENA offered Sharon and I a gift beyond imagination after our lives were blown apart by Bishop and we barely escaped with our lives, even if our minds and souls were shattered.

But even an Amazon began her life as a HUMAN. I am no different.

You are a standout among men, you always will be. It's one of the reasons why the MOTHER of this world's Sorceress Supreme has pledged her heart to you.

And of course...:: she smiles as the feminum wrist bracelet gleams while she playfully squeezes Mike's bicep:: there are OTHER reasons I'm sure.

:: She laughs a bit, noticing Mike giving her a look over. Alycia would NEVER even THINK of disrespecting or betraying Karen, but there was an acceptable way for a friend to appreciate another friend's asthetic appeal and this was it::

Something Haleigh used to tell me....NEVER doubt yourself. NEVER measure yourself by someone else's reality or standard.

It takes someone made of STERNER STUFF to run with this group and live to tell about it. You, me, Sharon...we know this better than anyone else in the world.

:: Stepping back a bit, Alycia looked out on to the ocean as she pondered Delilah and Michael's assessment of THAT situation.::

Be kind to her, Michael.

The woman lost her child before she could even establish a true bond with her. Thankfully, Alison had the foresight to cast a spell to help with that, but it could've been MOTHER THERESA doing the same thing and Delilah would have had the same reaction.

It's just that way...I'm not a mother, but I saw Sharon with her son, I know the nature of Karen's relationship with Morgan, I saw Hypolite with her daughter Diana on Themyscira...somethings just go beyond logic and understanding.

WE KNOW that Alison didn't conspire with Bishop...Maxim...

:: Alycia tried to do Bishop the courtesy of using his actual name. Though her interaction with him at Minerva's during the blue moon was brief, she sensed that he was indeed a changed man. Maybe it was because of the looming doom facing Delilah and his child...maybe it was something else...but she just felt that he needed to be regarded as something more than his PAST. She understood that better than most.::

to "KIDNAP" the baby. We're talking about Alison here, not MALICE. Maxim granted Alison permission to do what was necessary...the only thing that could be done to save Delilah's life.

You...WE...KNOW that. And someday, SHE will understand that too.

Maybe not now...or even MONTHS from now.

But we have to just give it...give HER time. She deserves THAT much since she's lost so much else.

If there's anything that has changed for me since my time being on Themyscira...it's being able to just SIT BACK and WAIT. Not just when it comes to the hunt or in strategy...but in LIFE in general. I know Harbinger can manipulate time and Spellbinder can teleport THROUGH time and space...but there's something to be said for WAITING and letting time take it's course. We HUMANS have had to learn to do that since the beginning havent we? Having super powers doesnt really change that. It might afford more OPTIONS but options arent always solutions.

Alison has given Delilah and baby Alexia the precious gift...the CHANCE to let time take it's course so that one day they will be together. Even if Delilah can't see that now...we should remember that and hold on to that...one of us may be able to give her that reminder of HOPE when she's ready.

But for now? she just needs TIME. I know her. I know Morgan and I know Alison. What happened in the Infirmary was BAD...but Haleigh & I have said TERRIBLE things to each other in similarly heavy situations and yet...I can't imagine this world without Haleigh.

And as for Morgan/Alison and Delilah...I think about Ava and Myself. There's been no love lost between she and I ever since that night when I...killed her father. It was self defense. That was understood by most...but it was still HER FATHER. She said some terrible things to me. Whether or not I deserved them is irrelevant. That's how you have to look at Delilah and the things she said to you. You just have to let that stuff fall away.

I couldnt ask...or even EXPECT her to understand or forgive me. I just had to live with it...and carry on as best I could. TIME has passed and that has probably been the BEST thing that could've happened for us. NOW we can be in the same general area without storm clouds gathering and threats of violence looming in the air. But there'll always be "that thing" that hangs between us. We may be civil...we may be able to work together...but I understand that we'll NEVER be what we WERE before that night and I've accepted that.

It's not for any of us to try to say or dictate what will happen between Morgan/Alison and Delilah. We just have to preserve this FAMILY because that's the only way ANY OF THEM is going to be able to have reason to know they should COME BACK.

:: She nods to Michael with an encouraging look in her face::

:: at that moment...::

Mike stopped suddenly, his nostrils slightly flared. He leaned in suddenly and whispered in Alycia's ear.

Cam's coming. I can smell his cologne. He is cool people for sure but I can GUARANTEE you that he is not here for me. I think he wants to have a...what is that?...a brilliant confrontation.

By now Mike was laughing his ass off at the pretty amazon...

:: Alycia had a slightly bemused expression on her face without even realizing it as she held her breath for just a moment::

:: Alycia exclaimed/laughed as Cameron made a wild joke about stealing Michael from Karen::

Yeah...okay. I think Karen would have OBSCENE fun casting any number of BODY TRANSFORMATION SPELLS on you if you tried that, Cameron!

:: She couldnt help but laugh as Mike echoed her sentiment. Cameron then moved in close to her. Alycia was a strong woman, in more ways than one....so why did she suddenly feel rather ODD with Cameron so CLOSE to her?::

[leaning in, he whispered in Alycia's ear...his lips a little dangerously close to her ear lobe]

"It's fantastic to see you love...forgive my current state of tipsiness.."

::BEFORE he moved away, Alycia's hand moved, seemingly with a mind of it's own. IMMEDIATELY reaching up and grabbing the back of Cameron's neck...her fingernails gently poking nape of his neck as she FORCED him to remain close to her with just a FRACTION of her amazonian strength:

his scent...his mana...they're so different...so much STRONGER than before...

::Seconds were like MINUTES as she kept him there...looking down at her own chest as she felt him breathing on her, then shifting her hazel eyes over toward his face...his mouth.::

::Finally she lets go and he steps back and addresses them both, while Alycia clears her throat and composes herself.::

Turning back to face the both of them...

"Now... How the HELL are you guys?"

:: Soon, a bottle of alcohol is being passed. Michael takes a big gulp and directly hands it into Alycia's grasp leaving no room for her refusal::

:: She looked at the bottle::

These concoctions are so...limited compared to the libations made on Themyscira...

:: But with a look of "eh, why not..." she holds the bottle up and tilts her head back, taking a full, unhesitant gulp and swallow::

Still....this is rather smoooothhh

:: smirking a bit as she hands the bottle off to Cameron::

 

[Prophet]

Minerva's Mansion - Northern Estate

"Shit.. Karen would kill you before I could let you down easy, Richie Rich!"

[Cameron laughed.]

"Yeah...okay. I think Karen would have OBSCENE fun casting any number of BODY TRANSFORMATION SPELLS on you if you tried that, Cameron!"

"Fine! Damn! Who knew Karen was so possessive! I guess i'll have to steal somebody else away!"

Prophet took a moment to steal a glance at Alycia, the hairs on the back of his neck still standing straight up on at end from the touch of her hand. It was just like the night of the Blue Moon Caper. BEFORE things got...ugly. There was always such an electric charge between the two. There always had been. Even though the two had HATED each other in the past, deep down...there was a definite..and HOT chemistry between them..and finally for once, they were both in the place that it was manifesting in ALL the right ways...for both of them.

Cameron was pleased when Mike took a big swig from the bottle and even more happy that Alycia followed suit.

"Then give up the bottle Cam! You have already made one hell of a dent! Your turn Charope!"

"These concoctions are so..limited compared to the libations made on Themyscira..."

Upon taking her first drink, both Mike and Alycia cheered.

"Yay! There we go!! Come let's sit down for a spell..."

Cameron motioned them over to sit down on some plush patio furniture that was in the distance for people to sit down and observe training as well as relax and take in the scenery of the beautiful island.

"Ahhhh"

As Cameron had the bottle he took another swig as he sat it down on the glass patio table in front of him.

"I have to say..this feels good. I've been so busy in the city, this is the first chance I've had to stop and just relax..."

Cocking his head to the side though...

"Which reminds me...When are you guys coming to visit? You know I just spent a ton of money rennovating the upper floors of the Parthenon. There is Penthouse Luxury Suites specifically designed for each of you...well...FOR ALL of you!"

[Turning to Alycia]

"Yours...is almost complete...if you visit TOO soon, you might, I don't know...have to stay with a friend..."

[Handing the bottle back to Mike]

"Come on now! Drink up, friends! How often to we get a "break" in the storm! We have to celebrate when we have the chance! Look around. This place is beautiful, the accommodations are to DIE for...it's about time we USE this place like we should...Plus.. I think my Sister needs some light and laughter! Yes...I did play the 'my sister is sad' card..."

 

[Harbinger]

Minerva's Mansion- the Stone Garden

:: Alison "fake laughs" and waves her hand dismissively at Cameron as he presents to her the DIRE and URGENT mission of "counting ALL THE STONES that make up the mansion's structure. It was clever and she took his point, but she wasnt about to give him the satisfaction of knowing that! as he bounded off to see Alycia and Michael...::


hmmm. Dominique has GREAT taste in vintage when it comes to Hemlock. And she's obviously enjoying Cameron...

:: She couldnt help but laugh even as she said that. It couldnt have sounded more absurd. Her baby brother, slepping with a powerful sorceress who's not only the Black Queen of the Hellfire Club but also the AUNT of one of her own team mates! But the TRUCE was still in effect between the two sides. SET certainly had a way of making VERY strange "bed fellows" ::

ONLY a member of the Six could take bed hopping to THAT level.


:: Alison leaned back in her large, oversized chair. Noticeably she removed her oversized "Jackie O" sunglasses as she tilted her head back and slowly rolled her neck, letting her blue/black hair flow in the breezy air. She was feeling the hemlock...just a bit but she liked it::

But Ava, Ruby's not a literally vampire though. She's a mutant...a psychic succubus. Which begs the question...how DID she come to befriend Ella Price? Vamps don't generally welcome someone who isnt REALLY "one of them" into their circles.

Still...Ruby owes a great deal of gratitude to Ella. ELLA "softened up" Morgan enough for her to even allow, much less TOLERATE Ruby at Melrose Place. I understand that she's doing a good job keeping "After-Dark" going.

Actually, before the Blue Moon blighted our lives, Morgan had been telling me that she was STRONGLY considering selling Melrose Place to Sally Spectra and making plans to return to New York, with the team of course. But the property values in that neighborhood, while already high to begin with, have SKY ROCKETED since After-Dark opened its doors just blocks down the road from Melrose.

And now, with Morgan selling the Parthenon back to Cameron, the price tag of THAT sale should be more than enough of an incentive for her to take that step.


Yes...

:: happily pouring herself ANOTHER flute of Hemlock::

Even WITH this black hole between myself, Morgan and Delilah. Morgan has something to come back to...something to pursue. Even now, in Limbo...she knows that she COULD stay there forever...even create her own "world" there...but THIS is where she belongs. This is where we ALL belong, living our lives, being WHO WE ARE! even IF Delilah can't stand the sight of us...

:: Alison said that in a noticeably BITTER tone::

:: Ava pointed out that she hadn't seen Blaze at ALL since the fallout and Morgan's depature! This troubled Alison because it was ANOTHER tributary leading to a time thread around Blaze that was now becoming more and more PROBABLE.::

Ava...

Blaze is having trouble. The fallout between Morgan, Myself and Delilah has served not only to play on some of her deep seated fears regarding elements of her own dystopian timeline coming to pass here, but it's also caused her to focus more on an issue that she's struggled with since she came here...ever since Haleigh made a rather cruel remark about her NOT BELONGING HERE, no matter how glamorous or polished she may be.

She wonders why should she be here...she notices how we ALL look at her with a mix of curiosity and surprise because of "how much better, more powerful, more 'together' she is than her mainstream counter part...Foxfire" and it begs a question she's been growing increasingly distressed about...WHO was Foxfire? and was she "THAT BAD" that we've rushed to REPLACE her with Firebird??

Before the Blue Moon...she asked to borrow the Seige Perilous to use it for one of its more benign functions. To view "herself" across time and space through the ruby lense of the cosmic gateway. In the midst of all the chaos and confusion, I forgot to ask for it back.

That's why I want to see Cameron before he leaves.

I've "seen" a timethread surrounding Firebird become increasingly more probable and I want him to check on her. REALLY check on her.

:: There was a bit more seriousness to Alison's tone. She was genuinely concerned about Blaze.::

She's formed a strong bond with him and I think it would be better for her to see HIM instead of me.

 

[Silver Swan]

Melrose Place- apartment 1

She sat up a little in her seat. Picking up one of the decorative pillows on the sofa, she squeezed it to her chest.

“And I wanted to thank you for your help on Aerie. Both of you.”

Delilah made eye contact with Sharon as she finished speaking, so she would know she was being genuine. They had done their best to protect her, and that was worth recognizing.

If only there was more I could have done to help you. But to see you here again is a good thing.



[ Sharon said to the point]

Delilah, Karen and I are BOTH mothers. and despite my form and appearence now...that part of me is still an essential piece of me.

I do not like it when things are beyond even my power to fix.

If there's ANYTHING I could have done then...or NOW...I would, without hesitation.

But there is one thing I want you to know.

Even when the fire devours a forest...so long as ONE root...ONE SEEDLING remains...there is the start...the PROMISE of a life renewed.

You can ALWAYS come to me...draw from my strength in whatever way you may need. I want you to know that you have something that I did not when I lost my son the first time. HOPE.

There's more than a chance...there's a PROMISE of HOPE for the future.

[ there was no need to be specific or mention any name. but it WAS clear what Sharon was referring to. It was important to plant that seed of thought. "the law of attraction" was something that had been taken from an ancient amazon principal and Sharon wanted Delilah to start taking back control of herself and start planning...LOOKING ahead, knowing that to get THERE...she had to start HERE and now]

I'm believing in that for you.

[ Karen noticeably nodded and agreed with an audible "mmmhmmm"]

We'll stand beside you. We'll hold you up when you need it...whatever it takes, we'll see you through to that day.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Melrose Place- Delilah's

<< Karen greeted Sharon and Cass as they both sat and talked with Delilah.>>

<< of them all, Sharon was perhaps the most direct with her words, but they were sincere, true and right on time and the mutate was careful not to say "TOO MUCH". Karen appreciated her effort at sensitivity, agreeing with the mutate at her affirmation of SUPPORT for Delilah>>

<< Of COURSE Karen was concerned for her own daughter, Morgan. BUT Morgan had come far in her life and knew herself, knew how to CONTROL herself and what to DO when she needed to regroup. THAT was why she was in Limbo. She lost her dearest, oldest friend. NO POWER could protect from that kind of loss...that kind of PAIN and there was nothing even Karen could do about it. But Morgan showed that she would not allow herself to lose control as she might have years ago when she was more DRIVEN by emotion rather than using emotional intelligence.>>

<< Sharon spoke of hope and Karen took that to heart as she HELD ON TO HOPE that her daughter WOULD return to them when the time was right. Hope for Morgan, Delilah and Alison to repair their relationship...to overcome the widening "black hole" of misunderstaning and find each other again.>>

<< Right now, in this moment, Karen was doing what she could where she knew it would matter the most. Helping her friend and "surrogate" daughter start back on her own road to LIFE, and furthering her recovery.>>

Delilah, I'll be traveling back and forth between here and Minerva's Mansion, helping Blaze to maintain Morgan's apartment and care for her kitten.

You and I will be maintaining our regularly scheduled sessions as well.

<< she smiled at the young mutant>>

<< Looking at Sharon and Cass>>

I think it's time that we wrap things up here. Delilah will need some alone time.

 

[Persephone]

Alison: But Ava, Ruby's not a literally vampire though. She's a mutant...a psychic succubus.

Ava rolled her eyes.

"Potato, Potatoe."

Vampires were vile creatures that Persephone wanted NOTHING to do with. She had a very long history with them--one that is actually quite surprising to say the least. Alison knows of it because of her precog abilities, but aside from that, it was a subject she chose not to dive into. Among MANY others of her past and present involving HIM.

"Frankly I could care less why Cass has anything to do with Ella and blah blah blah. [finishing off her screwdriver, the alcohol obviously taking effect now] That girl is lucky I don't snap her neck."

Pausing for a moment, Ava began to fan herself while smiling.

"Apparently I get very hostile when i'm drunk."

Laughing softly, though what she said WAS half true. However Alison seemed to become more concerned with Blaze and her ability to adjust to this alternate universe. She believed Blaze was in trouble.

Alison: She wonders why should she be here...she notices how we ALL look at her with a mix of curiosity and surprise because of "how much better, more powerful, more 'together' she is than her mainstream counter part...Foxfire"

"Well speaking from experience, it is quite overwhelming trying to adjust to a completely different timeline. In my "world" there was an ongoing battle of good verses evil similar to here, except I was evil...and WE were winning in the fight. I did what I wanted, when I wanted, with no thought of how my actions would hurt others. Then I came here, to a place where I was forced to think of "the greater good". To trust you [the six] as I did my own timeline's team--FAMILY. I had my hiccups....[scoffing] shit, I still do. But i've adjusted and acclimated to this world. The same will happen for Firebird. She just happen to arrive at a pretty shitty time."

Her's and Firebird's stories were pretty similar. Crosstime alters from different timelines who are now here, in this world. Frankly, she would probably be the best candidate to help Blaze through this, however she didn't have the same rapport with Blaze as Nicolas and Cameron did. She got along with her fine, there was no doubt about that, but Blaze--like her counter Foxfire--was definitely more of a "guys girl". Alison seemed to agree.

Alison: That's why I want to see Cameron before he leaves. I've "seen" a timethread surrounding Firebird become increasingly more probable and I want him to check on her. REALLY check on her. She's formed a strong bond with him and I think it would be better for her to see HIM instead of me.

"I agree. I think with everything that's going on with you, Morgan, and Delilah, Blaze needs someone who's not directly involved in this mess to help her. Afterall, she came from the timeline where Delilah went insane after your falling out."

Getting more comfortable, Ava rested her head back and shut her eyes. The warm sun dancing across her skin.

[smirking] "All we need now is a hot little cabana boy to "clean" the pool."

 

[MorningStar]

Melrose Place, Apartment #1

We'll stand beside you. We'll hold you up when you need it...whatever it takes, we'll see you through to that day.

Delilah managed a half-smile over at Sharon, reaching out to squeeze her hand again. Out of anyone here, Sharon was probably the person she could most trust. Even Cameron had family ties to think about.

Delilah, I'll be traveling back and forth between here and Minerva's Mansion, helping Blaze to maintain Morgan's apartment and care for her kitten.

Delilah felt a twinge in her stomach: in the past, Morgan would have asked HER to care for Tinkerbell and the little kitten.

You and I will be maintaining our regularly scheduled sessions as well.

Delilah didn’t complain but she couldn’t help but wonder what the point of meeting with Karen was? To talk about her feelings? Everyone knew what her feelings were, including Delilah AND Karen. What was the use of talking about it ad nauseum?

The three women said their goodbye and left Delilah alone in her apartment. Finally, she could breathe. She wandered aimlessly around the apartment, nothing to do and nowhere to be. Like much of the past weeks, although now Cameron wasn’t there to babysit her. Not that she really minded his company, but she knew that he was watching her, waiting for her to break so he could be there to pick up the pieces.

It looked like Cameron had already unpacked the things she had brought from the Parthenon. She decided she needed a shower after being on the plane. Luckily, everything was clean so she didn’t need to spend the day airing the apartment. The hot water felt good, and afterward she slipped into her stolen Parthenon white robe. Hopefully Cameron hadn’t noticed.

Coming back into her bedroom, she sat down at her vanity and looked at her reflection. She looked so old to her eyes, compared to when she had started all this in Valiant. FELT so old too. She reached into the top drawer to pull out an elastic for her hair, and noticed the little blue box. She pulled it out gingerly, cradling it in her palm. Carefully she pulled off the lid. Inside was the tiny silver baby bracelet she had purchased. She stared at it for a long minute, then dropped the entire box into the waste basket next to the vanity.

It hadn’t occurred to her until then that the rest of the baby stuff was gone. She stood slowly. This was all bullshit. Her life, her friends, The Six – it all meant NOTHING. Everything they had done, everything she had fought for. What had been the point? All of her sacrifice, all she had tried to do for humanity, all that SAVING THE WORLD – where had it gotten her? NOWHERE. Constantly trying to keep the others from overstepping their bounds as mutants, trying to keep disaster away from their door. Why had she bothered?

She threw open her closet doors to find something to wear. Her clothes sickened her. There wasn’t one thing in front of her she wanted to put on. She reached into the closet and grabbed an armful of clothes, not bothering to take them off the hangers. Moving straight through her apartment and out the front door, she launched the clothes into the pool.

<< Sharon Voiceover >>

Even when the fire devours a forest...so long as ONE root...ONE SEEDLING remains...there is the start...the PROMISE of a life renewed.

Satisfied, she turned on her heel and marched back into her apartment, slamming the door behind her.

 

[Ruby]

Melrose Place

:: After a little small talk, and after Sharon said some very encouraging words, Karen, Sharon, and Cass took their leave to give Delilah a few moments to herself. As Sharon and Cass left, Cass reached out and grabbed Sharon's wrist. ::

"Sharon? Would you like to come back to my apartment for a bit? I have something I'd like to ask."

:: She then turned to Karen. ::

"I'd love it if you would come too. I could use another's opinion on this. I have a few concerns about the Six."

:: She bit her lip. She felt shy and nervous. What would they think when she told them she wasn't sure she could balance her glamorous job with her duties of the Six? Would they be mad at her? Would they ask her to leave? ::

 

[Seer]

Some time passes

<< Shadow Weaver, Silver Swan and Ruby would not see MorningStar emerge from her apartment and hurl all of her clothing into the pool. As close at hand as they were, they were still miles away in the mind of a woman who had been cast adrift in what felt like an endless blackhole.>>

<< Sometime passed as Karen and Sharon visited with Cass. Delilah had since went back inside of her own apartment as well.>>

<< Outside of Melrose Place and just down the road, the momentary quiet was disrupted by the sound of a blasting horn and then the view of a sleek red Bugatti tearing around the corner. With a slight “fish tail” as it was now on Melrose Avenue, the vehicle zooms down the road, the horn sounding off once more before we here another equally curious, if not amusing sound…>>

WHEEEEEEEE!

<< The auburn haired fire elemental squeals with delight. Having made TERRIFYING “good time” from the Mid Wilshire Professional building where Spectra Couture was housed, driving in a way that even gave Nicolas pause at a few particular moments, the little speed demon now zooms down Melrose Avenue and smoothly pulls into a parking spot just outside of Melrose Place, with only a SLIGHT squeal of the tires as she comes to a complete stop.>>