Melrose unplugged

[Persephone]

"I'm not saying run away, Haleigh. I'm staying take a break. Rejuvenate yourself. Clear your mind. Just think about it, okay?"

Ava stood, taking both of Haleigh's hands within hers and looking at her sister in the eyes.

"But if you ever need me...need ANYTHING, please Haleigh, don't think you can't come to me. I'm always here for you....okay? And i'll physically be here for you soon in another few weeks, I promise. [Ava smiled] And considering MIKE took that last available apartment....I might have to bunk with you until I purchase a place of my own."

Rolling her eyes, Ava still couldn't believe that Morgan gave the last available apartment to Mike of all people. Even though she hadn't decided to come to Melrose Place IMMEDIATELY, she was planning on moving there within a month or two.

"So I call dibs on your bed."

With a grin, Ava embraced her sister tightly. Her hand running down the back of Haleigh's golden hair.

"I love you, Hales."

 

[MorningStar]

I dont know Dee...its just...something that i felt when talking to Blaze...I saw something...behind her, almost like a PRESENCE but it was not human...it was abstract. I don't know what it was...or why i noticed it THEN , but i felt a WAVE of ...anxiety...of ...

<< she looked at Delilah.>>

FEAR!

That was the last thing Delilah had been expecting Alison to say, and he face registered the shock she felt. It was hard to imagine Alison scared of anything. She pursed her lips and pondered the strange thing Alison had seen.

"Do you think it's something that could have followed Blaze here from her timeline?"

Harbinger's words were ominous, and there was a chill in the air that Delilah didn't think had anything to do with the ocean breeze. But Alison quickly changed topic back to the here and now.

But this here? this can't go on any longer. WE...[ everyone] HAVE to have a meeting about Nicolas and Haleigh...the time has come to decide if they should leave. ONLY when we do that, will i perhaps have a better grasp on what it is that i'm sensing...or trying to see.

Delilah nodded. This is not as she would have wanted it, and she wasn't entirely sure how she felt on the matter. But they couldn't keep treading water this way, that she knew.

"It's the right thing to do, even if it's not easy. Are you sure this is the right time though? With emotions so high? We need to do this right."

 

[Shadow Weaver]

MP courtyard

<< Shadow Weaver looked around the courtyard as she walked slowly with Mike. They didnt go TOO far from the stairs leading up to apartment 4 though. Karen saw Blaze pass by and made it a point to make sure no one else other than Delilah or Alison might be following.>>

<< Mike began to talk and Karen wrapped her arm under and around his large arm as the wind whistled in the air and her hair and cape continued to blow. of all the times to have to "debut" a new costume....her new look had gone seemingly unnoticed by anyone, but considering the circumstances, it was understandable.>>

I know it's bad, Michael. I FELT my daughter's fear and distress in greece when Nicolas...ATTACKED her!

<< Karen listened as he explained what had happened, from his point of view.>>

I have to tell you, Michael...I don't know what's worse...the fact that I SOMEHOW still feel SYMPATHETIC toward Nicolas considering the near PANIC and subsequent RAGE he sparked in my daughter OR the fact that I am pondering MURDERING Haleigh myself. I feel, in my self AT THIS MOMENT that something MUST be done. I feel, AT THIS MOMENT that my DAUGHTER could very well BREAK DOWN and what will happen to US then?

<< he went on to tell Karen that Morgan had torn his head off and threatened the wolves. Karen couldnt HELP but look a bit...unmoved by the bit about the wolves.>>

Well, Michael, this IS L.A. after all. How many people do you know walking around with not one but TWO large wolves that could savage any pet in this building, much less a human who doesnt have the power to defend him/herself? You may have trained them, but at their core they are STILL wild animals.

but that's neither here nor there.

<< she stops and is now facing Mike.>>

we have a PROBLEM! and what i CAN'T understand is...WHY HALEIGH was allowed to tell Morgan about that alternate TIMELINE! for goddess' sake Michael...how long have you known me? how long have you watched my daughter!? telling her that she was raped and murdered by a man much less HER man.... Isn't it OBVIOUS Haleigh didnt do that to HELP but to HURT?

<< she shrieked as she threw her hands up.>>

SHE DID THIS BEFORE!

<< the winds seem to rise a bit as the grey skies rumbled above.>>

She pushed MY daughter over the edge. DEATH was an ESCAPE for her while the REST of us had to risk our lives or in Blaze's case...DIE just to save ourselves and EVERYONE ELSE from Morgan.

<< Karen was now visibly distraught.>>

WHY is it that I can't leave my daughter alone for more than a few months at a time before HALEIGH finds a way to RUIN HER LIFE time and AGAIN!

She shouldnt have been the one to tell her, Michael.

and Then NICOLAS....

<< Karen stops...and composes herself after a few moments. Mike explains that he believes that Nicolas isnt a danger by himself, but that the combination of Morgan and Haleigh makes it something too much for him to handle. >>

Something has to be done. But for the first time in a long time, I am not quite sure WHAT that is.... But...

<< her stern expression softening a bit as she looked up at Mike.>>

Like I told Morgan, everything will be..okay. Somehow, we'll find a way.

<< she looks up at the sky.>>

I'd better get back to Morgan. But I'll be staying here for the time being. Alison and I both will. Alison said she'd stay with Delilah...and I will stay with Morgan.

<< Karen knew Mike might offer her to stay with him, but she felt her duty to help her daughter and to keep Haleigh away from her was paramount.>>

 

[Arsenal]

Mike listened as Karen vented. Fortunately, having him to confide in seemed to help her own agitation, at least keep it from being of a HOMICIDAL nature. But she repeated the question about why Morgan was told about the alternate timeline by Haleigh of all people. She softened her stance a bit about Nicolas, but wondered aloud what should be done, informing him that she would be staying with Morgan. Mike nodded slowly.

Even though I would love a house guest as pretty as you, I understand that is for the best. Right now Morgan is in no position to be without you both as a mother and...as a professional who can help her work through these revelations. You were the one I went to look for before I realized that you were actually already HERE. Remember honey, my door is always open even if you dislike my little doggies.

Mike chuckled a bit, hoping that his small joke would temper SOME of the tension. he then became serious once again.

We need to meet. You and me, Alison and Sharon. In my opinion Blaze, Delilah and Ava are compromised. We don't have the luxury in this situation to deal with people at this time who are unable to try to see the whole picture. I would have been one of those people not too long ago, but part of all of THIS is people trying to care enough to look at everything. It has to be. And that is why I want to help. We HAVE to put this back together somehow, get things situated. Because in EVERY timeline we failed to do that...it is NEVER good, let's just say that.

Take care, doc. When Nicolas returns he will stay in his apartment and will teleport as needed to avoid contact until we can get things situated. I will make CERTAIN of it.

Mike kissed her again on the other cheek and hugged her reassuringly before heading back to his own apartment...

 

[Harbinger]

MP apt. 1

:: leaning back , she exhaled slowly. Delilah was one of the few who actually cared enough to listen to her and take her words seriously.::

No....no, it isn't something that came WITH the alternate Blaze. More like...something old, very old ...trying to reassert itself. Trying to COME BACK!


I don't know if its due to the intense past of this property, there are so many astral images of past events and people here that stand out, or if its due to what's happening right now with the current group of residents.

:: Delilah asked if NOW was the time for the meeting and Alison shook her head to the negative.::

No. Not right now.

But tonight...it has to be discussed. It's the only way.

Delilah, if it's alright with you, I would like to stay here for a while. I had planned on asking you anyway, but now, I feel that I NEED to be here for a few days at least.

:: looking back out of the window, she saw Karen talking intently with Mike as the dried, dead leaves flowed through the courtyard and the winds blew.::

 

[Silver Swan]

out on the ocean

[ in a weird twist, Sharon unknowingly leads Nicolas to the same ocean butte that jutted up from the pacific ocean waters. it was on this very land mass that Morgan had that extreme astral episode/dream in which she lost herself in darkness and transformed into "Darkchilde". it was the on this rock that the dawn of the Inferno began nearly 2 years ago . this butte that was off the coast, and not too far from the mansion that was once occupied by Erika King and now in Alison's posession but not currently used or occupied.]

[ the mutate and the mutant now were sitting together on the butte, surrounded by nothing but ocean and sky.]


[ Nicolas was painfully aware of what he'd lost, and how he came to be where he is and SHARON could more than identify with it in some ways. To be taken and turned into something against your will...to then be let loose and to cause chaos and carnage. she'd BEEN THERE and Nicolas was willing to stand by Morgan as they tried to help her. Now, surprisingly she found herself able to try to return the favor.]


[ as she sits across from nicolas on the grassy ground of the butte, her blonde , silver streaked hair flows in the ocean winds.]

Nicolas. I know what this is like. Remember I used to be DEAD. I died...as I'm told by Morgan and the others, A HERO...a MATYR for the cause i believed so deeply in. But then, the very enemy that took my life, managed to bring me BACK somehow...against my knowledge or choice and turned me into the Silver Swan. I was literally INSANE. the shock of somehow being alive again, the changes to my body...it all left me beside myself and Rick Riley USED ME to murder dozens of innocents as Mystech attempted to reclaim another so called property of theirs...HALEIGH!

Morgan was willing to do whatever it took to "save" me, even as i posed a danger to her and all of you, and YOU stood by her! maybe it was your love for her, or the memory of gustav , or even me....I don't know. But I a large part of my new lease on life to you AND her. She was my friend before I died and i was watching you grow up even as my own son was denied the opportunity.

[ she takes his hands into her own armoured hands.]

My hands hold your hands now, but several months ago, my hands shed MUCH BLOOD. I can NEVER TRULY "move past" that. And as Haleigh so kindly reminded me just a bit ago...I was...or may still BE a MASS MURDERING PSYCHO PATH. But while I am STILL LUCID [ she says with sarcasm and a mental eyeroll at that mechanical misfit back at MP ] I am here to lend support to you.

Rick Riley caused me to enter a chapter of my life that threatened to ERASE my legacy as a senator. Set did the same thing to you. but just as Morgan and yourself helped to SEVER my link to Rick Riley, WE have helped to sever YOUR link to SET.

Just as I have had to find my way as the Silver Swan, YOU have to REDEFINE your way as Rampage...not "the son of set" but as the super powered mutant, the young man with a brave and bold heart!

But in order for you to truly KNOW that, you have to stop living in FEAR of SET and you have to stop giving him credit he doesnt deserve. He CAN'T do anything anymore.

FUCK SET! FUCK everything about him. OKAY? GUSTAV is your father and you need to ACT LIKE YOU KNOW THAT!

Use the power you have to take back CONTROL of yourself and your LIFE.




As a woman...a wife...a girlfriend...a mother, all the things that any of those girls are or hope to be, I can tell you that Haleigh's feelings for you themself were not a crime. About the only good thing she did WAS to keep a tight lid on them. Set took that block away in BOTH of you. MOST of us understand that and were slowly granting you BOTH the benefit of the doubt in that you made a terrible mistake against your will. Like SHIT...LOVE happens. Sometimes its a train wreck, sometimes its a work of art. Set USED that as a WEAPON and that shows that he knew NOTHING about love and what a gift it is. Do you REALLY want to remain in HIS shadow? We kicked his ass OUT of this realm of existence and if he comes back....we'll do it AGAIN!

[ Sharon said with boldness and conviction.]

And if we have to bust your ass to do it ...if that is what it takes to save you, that is what we'll do.



NOTHING i can say will change the reality that is NOW, the reality that Haleigh and You helped to create. But for some reason...I don't believe its TOO LATE. I think in Morgan's deep , secretive realm of her heart, she TOO wants to reach closure. But that most likely does NOT include getting back together with you.

NOW we have to deal with the damage done to her TODAY and what that could mean in the bigger picture. Karen is there now, so we'll let HER worry about that for now.

YOU need to worry about YOURSELF. You're not a little boy anymore. You're not even an innocent young man anymore. You know too much, and you KNOW BETTER.

I will help you, HOWEVER i can. And i think Karen may have a few techniques involving her skills as a psycho therapist and a witch that can help you as well.

But you have to make a promise, here and now, that you will never, EVER do to Morgan or anyone ELSE in that building what you did today. You crossed a line that is going to be HARD for the others to find in their heart to forgive, but ALL of us have had to seek redemption time and again. You are not exempt from that. It's time to face that path, and begin putting one foot in front of the other.

[ she looks at him as the waves and endless ocean flow and swirl around them.]

 

[MorningStar]

Harbinger told her that they needed to meet to discuss thre future of Haleigh and Nicolas.

"Tonight seems so soon...but of course you're right that it needs to be done. We need to talk about this - put all our cards on the table. Are we...are we going to have Nicolas and Haleigh present? Or is this a decision we make without them?"

Delilah really didn't want to have that conversation with the others, as much as she recognized its necessity. Even Nicolas - she didn't want to have to tell anyone they were out of the Six, or even vote that way. Voting them on or off the island seemed so impersonal. And of course, despite her anger, she didn't know how she would vote and an afternoon wasn't much time to decide.

She pushed it out of her mind for the moment.

"In the mean time - how do we find out more about this...this shadow hanging over us? What's our next step?"

Delilah, if it's alright with you, I would like to stay here for a while. I had planned on asking you anyway, but now, I feel that I NEED to be here for a few days at least.

"Of course, of course. You are welcome here anytime. Feel free to arrange the guest room in any way you like to meet your needs. Make yourself at home. But the Vanilla Coke Zero in the fridge is off-limits."

She winked jokingly at Alison, trying to lighten the moment a bit. But she could tell Alison was still very troubled. But then again, she was too when she wasn't trying to pretend she wasn't.

 

[Harbinger]

MP apt 1

:: Alison nodded with gratitude as Delilah opened up her home to the precog.::

No. Haleigh and Nicolas will not be present. Nor will Morgan.

In fact, as shocking as it may seem, Morgan will be leaving shortly. She is determined to completely revive her modeling/fashion career and she has always been at her BEST when pursuing that.

Karen is with her now and will do WHATEVER it takes to keep Nicolas and Haleigh away from Morgan. We must make sure that in her zeal to protect her daughter, that she does not inadvertently fullfill the destiny of "Shadow Weaver" in other timelines that are just a HAIR away from being our own reality.

I am more than certain she will not go that route, but at this moment, the time threads all seem blurred, something about this place...these events of the last 24 hours has made things seem more uncertain.

as for what is next? right now, let's just let things continue to settle. I'll set up things in the guest room and don't worry...that Vanilla Coke Zero in the fridge isnt of interest to me, Cosmo says it's too fattening.

:: she smiles at Delilah as she nudges her while joking. She STARTED to say something about Haleigh's pregnancy scare but thought better of it. why add a twist to a drama that needed to stay in INTERMISSION for the time being?::

:: and besides, her mind couldnt help but continue to try to make sense of the fact that the time threads and the space around them was now caught in what was becoming a growing fog of sorts. not since the Arklay incident had she felt this.::

 

[MorningStar]

Delilah felt ashamed for being relieved that Nicolas and Haleigh would NOT be there. And in some respects Morgan, for having to deal with Morgan's anger would not be very productive. But what did it say that she felt that shame? That there was something wrong with what they were thinking of doing?

"Wait - Morgan, leaving? Leaving the Six? Could she really do that? Even for her career, I mean..."

The Six without Morgan seemed unfathomable. Then again so had the Six without Alison at one time - yet she wasn't really gone, was she?

Delilah rested her head on her hand, thinking, wanting to ask a question but not knowing if Alison would tell her the answer.

"Alison...will Morgan - I mean, do you see her, ever getting over this? Moving on? I mean, really moving on and not closing herself off to the world again?"

 

[Harbinger]

MP, apt. 1

:: Alison turned back as she was walking when Delilah asked her about Morgan. She looked calm as her colbalt blue eyes fixed on her friend.::

No, not leaving the Six. Just leaving to attend to a personal matter this afternoon.

As a matter of fact, I definately see Morgan recovering. As BAD as this is, INSPITE of the damage Haleigh and Nicolas caused, I do not see Morgan succumbing. Its one of the resaons why Karen and I arrived when we did. We're not going to let this consume her and if we have to expell Haleigh and Nicolas for ALL of our sakes, then that is what we will do.

:: she looked at Delilah for a few moments longer. She already knew that it would be HARD for Delilah to consider such a thing with either person. What a pitty that Nicolas didnt know how WRONG he was about Delilah, the woman whom he thinks NEVER gave him a chance was still secretly hoping for a positive outcome for HIM as well as everyone else. ::

...Delilah, I think I'll lay down for a bit. For some reason...i feel TIRED.

:: truth be told she hadnt slept that much in the last 24 hours and though she was able to handle the changes in the time zones better than most, her body still needed its rest. the feeling of what she'd seen earlier behind Blaze was still nagging her and she had a feeling only by roaming the astral plane would she gain more insight.::

I'll see you in a little bit.

:: she smiled at Delilah before disappearing down the hall and into the guest room.::

 

[Spellbinder]

apartment four to affinity models

<< sometime had passed, and after more talking with her mother, a hot shower, some nurishment and more talking with her mother, Morgan felt herself calm and stable, at least enough to focus on the most important goal she had for the day before the nonsense of this morning.>>

<< she sat in her vanity, now in a black calvin klein pin stripped suit consisting of a tailored blazer and short skirt. bare legged, with black four inch leather high heels. on the lapel of her blazer was a beautifull diamond and amethyst brooch. she opted to leave her neck bare and the brooch drew more attention to the perfect reveal of ample cleavage from the blazer. her new shorter hair length allowed her to try new sophisticated styles, giving her a sleek if not somewhere severe look. the look in her violet eyes said it all. She was definately out to accomplish her goal. she could fall apart LATER. but right now, her meeting at Affinity Models was paramount. It certainly HELPED to know that Alison and Karen were now at Melrose.>>

<< her mind couldnt help but dart back to the still fresh memories of only hours ago. Nicolas was LUCKY he left when he did and Haleigh...what else was there to SAY?>>

<< as she finished primping, applying her scent of preference, PINK by Victoria Secret, there came a knock on her bedroom door. It was Blaze, Karen had let the fire elemental in.>>


<< the young cross time alternate wrapped her arms around Morgan as the sorceress sat facing her vanity.>>

"You know I never got to thank you for everything you did for me. You risked outing yourself for me. And it means a lot to me. I definitely owe you one, Morg."

Is that what you think?

<< she said in an icy voice as she looked at the reflection in the vanity.>>

I notice just how you show your gratitude.

<< referring to Blaze fraternizing with Haleigh, doing NOTHING while Nicolas attacked Morgan before turning on Delilah and Sharon. All Morgan could think about was how HAPPY she'd been to see FIREBIRD in the alternate timeline. She remembered how SHE had stood up to Haleigh when she became abusive to the ORIGINAL Blaze inside Illustra when Blaze had threatened to out Haleigh's secret link to Stavaros. She remembered the times on VALIANT, so long ago...when she first learned she HAD a sister. and how suddenly, THIS Blaze, aka Firebird, seemed more interested in towing the line instead of being a SISTER. It Hurt Morgan's feelings.>>

<< she stands up, pulling away from Blaze.>>

I don't want to see you right now. I have a meeting to go to.

<< she grabs her purse and her leather attache'. and exits. she couldnt look at Blaze. all she could think about was how her sister stood there and did NOTHING. All that talk she had about Nicolas in her apartment, but when push came to shove, she couldnt even stand up to him the way DELILAH and AVA did. >>

Mother, Blaze is not welcomed here anytime soon. Get her out of my apartment before I get back. I'll see you later.

<< she gently squeezes her mother's hand and then exits the apartment, heading down the stairs and quickly making her away across the courtyard before the winds gust...and the dried, dead leaves dust up, causing Morgan to pause for a moment as she looks around and then up at the sky. it seemed that the wind carried sounds, almost like WHISPERS...cold, forboding whispers. >>

....

this wind...

<< well, despite it beeing cooler than it was this morning and the sky looking rather gray, Morgan went on. out of the courtyard and onto the street, getting into her luxury jag and zooming off down Melrose Ave.>>



<< arriving at Affinity Models ahead of schedule (after driving the car through a STEPPING DISC to cut down on travel time ) the sorceress parks and entires the agency. It wasnt as grand a building as Illustra but it was abuzz with activity for sure. Morgan looked chic and glamorous, had her portfolio ready and was prepared to talk shop with the woman who would be offering her a job...a contract. , but if Claudia thought Morgan was a novice at the business side of fashion, she would be mistaken. >>

<< after announcing herself to the receptionist, Morgan seated herself. Her mind was turning. at some moments revisiting the mess of the morning, at others looking ahead, HOPING to find solace in work. What would her first in depth conversation with Claudia be like? >>

 

[Firebird]

Apartment 4

Is that what you think?

"Yes, I do."

The level of ice in Morgan's voice was noted immediately by the fire elemental. She expected this kind of reaction but even still it was never easy swallowing it.

I notice just how you show your gratitude.

"Morgan...wait."

But Morgan had no desire to sit there and listen to her. At least Alison was willing to listen. But Morgan was hurting and so she would throw herself into her career. Sighing under her breath, Blaze nodded.

I don't want to see you right now. I have a meeting to go to.

Blaze didn't know what to say, usually Morgan always wanted to see her. But Alison's vision was becoming true and unfortunately for Blaze she preferred to learn things the hard and painful way. She was far too stubborn for her own good.

Mother, Blaze is not welcomed here anytime soon. Get her out of my apartment before I get back. I'll see you later.

Such icy words felt like bullet wounds to the heart. Blaze gasped for a second to steady herself. A flicker of fire illuminated to cast an eerie yellow shadow across her eyes. But she would respect Morgan's wishes and so she walked past Karen.

"Its okay Karen, I can show myself out."

Descending the stairs and out of Morgan's apartment a single tear rolled down Blaze's cheek as she gasped at the strange weather outside. As chilly as the air was Blaze remained outside. The wind blowing her long brown hair as she clenched both fists tightly. Glancing in the direction Morgan had headed.

"I'm sorry Morgan..."

The young fire elemental had a lot to learn in this world but she wouldn't stray from following her heart. Wiping her cheek she turned to return to her own apartment. While Morgan kept Blaze at bay she wasn't about to give up either. She swore to herself that through thick or thin she would be there for both of them. Hell Sharon was there for NICOLAS! Nobody even tried to shun her away.

Wrapping her arms around herself she shook her head trying to shake it off. But nobody seemed to understand her position. Everything was just so damn black and white here. There was no shade of gray. Something Blaze was beginning to see.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

apartment 4

<< Karen, who was sitting out in the living room, cuddling Tinkerbell and the small white kitten, heard Morgan dismiss Blaze utterly before coming down the hall , moving with a purpose.>>

<< she sets the kitten down on the couch, and stands up.>>

Morgan? honey...

<< Morgan promptly informs her mother that Blaze is not welcomed in apartment 4 and to have her out by the time she got back. Morgan said her goodbyes and left for her meeting. Karen watched as her daughter departed. She was still hurting, that much was clear. But Karen now had the opportunity to speak to Blaze.>>

Blaze, come and sit down.

<< she called the young woman back motioned for her to sit across from Karen on the large leather sectional.>>

We need to talk.

<< she closes the door leading outside and comes to sit down across from Blaze. Tinkerbell had gone over to inspect the new arrival and Karen smiled a bit.>>

Would you like some tea or something else?

<< she wanted to make sure the alternate was comfortable before they had "real talk">>

There's been a lot going on and in order for me to understand the larger picture, I need to know more of the story. I don't want any slants or spin either. I want the truth. I also want to know why, when my daughter was in a state of panic, YOU, her next of kin...did NOTHING to help her?



<< Karen's eyes said it all. she was ready to get to the bottom of this.>>

 

[Firebird]

Apartment 4

Mostly in shock more than anything Blaze remained outside until the apartment door would open and standing there was Karen.

Blaze, come and sit down.

Blaze was tempted to decline Karen's offer. She knew the older woman had questions but Blaze didn't feel up to talking. She just wanted to return to her apartment. But Blaze couldn't deny Karen either, she had always been a mother figure to the fire elemental so she turned to return back inside apartment four.

We need to talk.

"Alright."

She was dreading this little chat but Blaze forced herself over to the large sectional facing Karen. Tinkerbell would curiously inspect her and Blaze was grateful the feline was there. Scratching her under the chin before glancing up into Karen's eyes.

Would you like some tea or something else?

"No, thank you."

Blaze just wanted to get this over with. She knew how protective Karen could be. She didn't want to delay any further.

There's been a lot going on and in order for me to understand the larger picture, I need to know more of the story. I don't want any slants or spin either. I want the truth. I also want to know why, when my daughter was in a state of panic, YOU, her next of kin...did NOTHING to help her?

"I don't have a valid reason for you, Karen. I wish I could come up with something really noble but I've got nothing. I choked...it all happened so fast and when I saw Sharon, Delilah, Haleigh, and Ava step in I figured they had it all under control. What could I have done? I could bad mouth Nicolas and I could have used my power on him to STOP him from hurting Morgan. But...I froze...it was like I was brought back to Aerie when Nicolas was the first person to greet me. And as much as I hate him for hurting Morgan and saying those awful things and hurting Delilah...I don't know. I was afraid. I tried to help but Morgan wouldn't listen to me. It all got out of hand and it mainly started because Morgan saw Haleigh exiting my apartment."

Blaze paused for a second before she continued on. "Haleigh came to my apartment last night to check up on me. But she didn't look well....she was cold as ice, and she could barely stand. I wasn't about to let her stand there. So I let her stay the night but she mentioned how she wasn't feeling well. And we both know Haleigh doesn't get sick. So I asked if she was pregnant...and I freaked her out by inquiring. So I spent the night trying to calm her down but I'm just not like Zach or Ava. I tried...I had good intentions I just wanted to help. Everyone here hates Haleigh and I feel for her. I KNOW she's done this to everyone here more than once but on my world that Haleigh had shut right down. I wanted to prevent that because I considered the alternate Haleigh my best friend. She was there for me when Morgan disappeared. But I also wanted to be there for Morgan but with my lack of reaction it looks bad."

Blaze was beginning to see what Alison, Morgan, Delilah, and Karen all saw of her. She had comforted Haleigh but she did nothing for Morgan when she needed her. Sighing under her breath, Blaze looked locked eyes with Karen.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

apartment 4

<< Karen appreciated this Blaze not being messy with her emotions like the mainstream Blaze was. Firebird was intriguing to the doctor in the subtle yet crucial ways she differed from her mainstream counterpart. taller, sleeker, more into fashion and glamor...which automatically made it easier for her to relate to THIS timeline's Morgan. Her power set was also substantially stronger than the mainstream's was. Karen had regretted not giving mainstream Blaze a fair chance for so many years because of who her father was. When Firebird arrived here, it was a second chance Karen would pass up.>>

<< the young woman shared with her the honest feeling and reaction she had to it all...and Karen nodded slowly, noting the genuine feeling of shock and disbelief and of fear. This was a problem.>>

Blaze...

<< Karen said with a less stern tone.>>

I don't blame you for being afraid. What Nicolas did...it was beyond inappropriate...it was inexcusable. and he WILL answer for it. he crossed a line that i never imagine he would...and the issue of SET is growing very old, VERY fast. If Morgan, Sharon, Haleigh or anyone ELSE with a "dark side" can fight the good fight to control themself then so can he.

Don't let HIS inability to behave prevent YOU from doing RIGHT by Morgan, YOUR sister.

Alison and Delilah are Morgan's surrogate sisters, and I do view/treat them as my daughters... but YOU are her blood. I don't know how it happened in your timeline, but in this one, when Morgan discovered her sisterly connection to the original Blaze in Valiant, she immediately accepted her. She even took time away from Valiant to PERSONALLY liberate Blaze from her contractual relationship with a black ops organization that tried to "cancel" her when she refused to carry out their orders. Their bond was strong, even when i didnt always treat Blaze with the kindness she needed, Morgan remained in her corner.

as for Haleigh? I don't know about the Haleigh of YOUR time, but OUR Haleigh is...shall we say..."difficult to tolerate" at best. She has maladaptive tendencies that are deep seated and she maintains this...outrageous ability to both acknowledge her wrong doing and yet somehow absolve herself of it at the same time.

She has hurt and burned nearly everyone in this building but at the same time, MANY of your team mates have tried to reach out to her time and again. She came such a long way with Morgan from when they FIRST met....which, by the way, was what made it possible for Morgan to discover that mainstream Blaze was still ALIVE after the disolution of Valiant.

Haleigh...<< Karen STRUGGLED to find a nice way to put this.>> Is...a...uh...HUMAN BEING << lifting her perfectly shaped eyebrows >> . and like any human being with at least an average level of intelligence and accomplishment, she has her strengths and weaknesses. unfortunately she rarely seems to find ways to minimize the weak and build on the strength.

MY issue is that she seems to LIVE to torment my daughter. It has been that way from the beginning. Inferno was one result...today's meltdown in the courtyard was apparently another. I don't care what she SAYS...her ACTIONS speak far louder than her words.

Which brings me to the matter of HER telling Morgan about the events in the altnerate timeline where THAT Morgan was raped and murdered by that Nicolas. It was not HALEIGH'S place to tell Morgan that, Blaze and SHAME on you for allowing that to happen.

I've never been able to get past Haleigh's wreckless, devil may care ways...and you need to understand that by continuing to LABOR on her behalf so much, you risk alienating yourself from Morgan. Is that what you really want?

I have high hopes for you. You came here, leaving YOUR world and its survivors behind. That is not something one does lightly. You still have alot to learn as you adjust. It doesnt happen over night and I want to see you do well here. But today was not a good day...for any of you.

<< Karen moved down, closer to Blaze and took her hand.>>

I know you were hit hard by what happened, all of you were. Just give Morgan time to recover from the shock and I know she will give you another chance.

 

[Firebird]

Blaze allowed Karen to elaborate more on the history of Morgan, Haleigh, and the real Blaze. Even Blaze seemed intrigued. She had some real shoes to fill with the mainstream Blaze deceased. Yet, Blaze wasn't hoping to live in the woman's shadow either. And she was fully capable of owning up to her mistakes. She wasn't the type to indulge in self pity. A part of Blaze could see why Morgan coldly blew her off and she couldn't blame her. Sure, it hurt like hell but Blaze accepted the consequences of having alienated and hurt Morgan.

I don't blame you for being afraid. What Nicolas did...it was beyond inappropriate...it was inexcusable. and he WILL answer for it. he crossed a line that i never imagine he would...and the issue of SET is growing very old, VERY fast. If Morgan, Sharon, Haleigh or anyone ELSE with a "dark side" can fight the good fight to control themself then so can he.

Nodding, Blaze would agree with Karen as she listened to the older woman. Karen spoke from experience as she also had a dark side. She saw it first hand when Ava murdered Mike. Even Karen managed to fight that dark side of herself as did the others on the team.

Don't let HIS inability to behave prevent YOU from doing RIGHT by Morgan, YOUR sister.

"You're right I shouldn't allow him to effect my judgement especially when it comes to Morgan."

Alison and Delilah are Morgan's surrogate sisters, and I do view/treat them as my daughters... but YOU are her blood. I don't know how it happened in your timeline, but in this one, when Morgan discovered her sisterly connection to the original Blaze in Valiant, she immediately accepted her. She even took time away from Valiant to PERSONALLY liberate Blaze from her contractual relationship with a black ops organization that tried to "cancel" her when she refused to carry out their orders. Their bond was strong, even when i didnt always treat Blaze with the kindness she needed, Morgan remained in her corner.

"I'm her blood but it was so frustrating when I first arrived here. I was always regarded as 'just an alternate.' And while that's the truth its still difficult when I was trying to acclimate to this world. After awhile I stopped regarding myself as 'Morgan's sister' because that title goes to your mainstream Blaze. Well, we all make mistakes, Karen. You were able to accept me when I arrived and I'm grateful for it. I know it wasn't an easy task for you especially with the history you and Blaze had."

It wasn't the first time Blaze had heard about her mainstream and Karen. She was curious what the real mainstream was like. The woman sounded like a hot head.

as for Haleigh? I don't know about the Haleigh of YOUR time, but OUR Haleigh is...shall we say..."difficult to tolerate" at best. She has maladaptive tendencies that are deep seated and she maintains this...outrageous ability to both acknowledge her wrong doing and yet somehow absolve herself of it at the same time.

"My Haleigh is actually worse than your Haleigh. At least this Haleigh is in touch with her emotions even if they are negative. And that may not sound positive for anyone here but I watched alternate Haleigh for months...years just depleting. Her heart was broken from Zach and Nicolas and as a result she felt her emotions were her weakness and she adapted. She threw herself into the leadership of the Six. I tried to get through but it was too late..she was too far gone. She was so cold....it was like she lacked a soul. Just an empty shell and when I saw her upset I didn't want her to revert like the alternate on my world. Haleigh is difficult for anyone even her sister but under all that armor she is a good woman."

She has hurt and burned nearly everyone in this building but at the same time, MANY of your team mates have tried to reach out to her time and again. She came such a long way with Morgan from when they FIRST met....which, by the way, was what made it possible for Morgan to discover that mainstream Blaze was still ALIVE after the disolution of Valiant.

"But you just said she has come so FAR. If she can do that once whose to say she can't again? I honestly think Haleigh is capable of good when she isn't provoked or upset. She and Alison were once able to put their differences aside when Morgan was gone. Both sides fail to see the bigger picture. Hell, they even all got along to heal me at the hospital. They worked as a unified hive to save me. That has to count for something, even Morgan put her personal feelings a side."

MY issue is that she seems to LIVE to torment my daughter. It has been that way from the beginning. Inferno was one result...today's meltdown in the courtyard was apparently another. I don't care what she SAYS...her ACTIONS speak far louder than her words.

"I have to disagree there. I think in the BEGINNING she liked to torment but after the Inferno incident I think Haleigh grew up. She took responsibility for her actions. But if we're going with the action card then I will also pull it. When we all went out to the club Nicolas and Haleigh were there. Haleigh had been drinking but she WANTED to talk to Morgan. She wasn't in the best shape to do any sort of communication but it was an effort. I saw the sincerity in her eyes, Karen. She was passionate about talking to Morgan but something provoked it."

Blaze frowned thinking back to that night she remembered seeing Claudia with Nicolas on the dance floor. Alison's words of her being a snake lingered in her mind before she snapped out of it.

Which brings me to the matter of HER telling Morgan about the events in the altnerate timeline where THAT Morgan was raped and murdered by that Nicolas. It was not HALEIGH'S place to tell Morgan that, Blaze and SHAME on you for allowing that to happen.

"Yes, that was bad timing by Haleigh. But I think that she did so because she knew she had nothing left. She knew she betrayed Morgan's trust, most of the team hated her, and she couldn't be with Nicolas. No, it wasn't Haleigh's place but who was going to bring it up? And while you can say shame on me I'm not a telepath, Karen. I can't read minds, I can't see into the future like Alison, so how could I have prevented that? It came as a shock to me as it did for you and the others. Haleigh has a unique ability of turning the tables when someone thinks they have her figured out. She's a chameleon of sorts. You can't predict her next move and just when you do she does something like that."

I've never been able to get past Haleigh's wreckless, devil may care ways...and you need to understand that by continuing to LABOR on her behalf so much, you risk alienating yourself from Morgan. Is that what you really want?

"That doesn't come as a surprise to me. I think most on this team have difficulty letting go. I understand that, I had this conversation with Alison already. But just as I told her I will tell you. I care for the both of them. I can't just alienate the other because people will take offense. Why is it that Sharon can coddle Nicolas and everyone is okay with that? He is the son of Set and he isn't innocent either. Why is it okay for him to shed a few tears and everyone coddles him. But if Haleigh owns up to her mistakes and admits she'll do it again that people throw her to the wolves. I just don't feel that's fair. Both are guilty but Haleigh accepts her actions and underneath it all she feels sorrow too but she knows she can't go back in time. She honestly believed she was saying Morgan from a gruesome fate."

I have high hopes for you. You came here, leaving YOUR world and its survivors behind. That is not something one does lightly. You still have alot to learn as you adjust. It doesnt happen over night and I want to see you do well here. But today was not a good day...for any of you.

"No, today flat out sucked."

Blaze knew what Karen was saying though and she appreciated her words of wisdom.

I know you were hit hard by what happened, all of you were. Just give Morgan time to recover from the shock and I know she will give you another chance.

"I was but I understand why Morgan did it. But what am I to do? I can leave Morgan alone for however long she needs. But it seems like I can't be there for Morgan and Haleigh. I would like to but I'll hurt them both in the end and myself. What do I do, Karen?"

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas listened long and hard as Sharon gave him a dose of tough love, speaking if what he would need to do, and relating to his own sense of violation, of being use din the situation. He nodded slowly, then after she was done, he HUGGED her..squeezing her rather hard. It felt too good to the demigod to have someone he could count on that he could give a TRUE hug for him to resist. He looked at Sharon.

Thank you. You cannot know how much I appreciate you taking the time to actually help me talk through this. I have a lot to do, and it will not be easy.

Nicolas stood quickly.

I will not return to Melrose Place tonight. To be among their number will not be productive for ANY of us, and no one there really needs to see me right now. Even now Mike is waiting to tell me not to be seen, to be discreet in coming and going. I have properties available, and I will take advantage of the Penthouse above my own office building near the harbor. If I am needed, you can easily contact me. [taps his head]

Nicolas began to fade as he teleported away...then stopped.

Sharon, I apologize for all of this. You deserved me to be better than this, and my Father...GUSTAV...would be hurt that I had not managed to utilize the meditation and mental health exercise he scoured the world to help me acquire. I am going to meditate, work some things out, and I will be in touch tomorrow...if you want. Oh, and one last thing...you won't be a grandma anytime soon. Haleigh is not expecting.

Nicolas faded from sight...

...reappearing in a posh Office Building near the LA Harbor. He had a suite there that rivaled the one at Illustra, something from the days when his Father ran the company, constantly traveling to the large offices. After his death, the penthouse were redecprated and maintained to suit his taste.

He stripped down, taking a quick shower before he sat on a large leather sofa...thinking of what to do next. he decided to pick up te phone and dial a number, hoping that it was still the same as before...

 

[Shadow Weaver]

apartment 4

"That doesn't come as a surprise to me. I think most on this team have difficulty letting go. I understand that, I had this conversation with Alison already. But just as I told her I will tell you. I care for the both of them. I can't just alienate the other because people will take offense. Why is it that Sharon can coddle Nicolas and everyone is okay with that?

I am not Alison. Your conversation with her has no bearing on THIS conversation. What may satisfy HER may not necessarily satisfy ME.

You are young and impetuous...not that THAT is a BAD thing per se, but it is clear to me that you do NOT understand all of the circumstances that surrounded these people.

as for Nicolas and Sharon? WHO BETTER to deal with him right now than the woman who nearly became his adoptive mother? She knew him when he was a boy. He's roughly the same age as what her son would be had he not been abducted by Mystech all those years ago.

Sharon understands what it is to be taken and transformed into something that you would never imagine for yourself. She was DEAD Blaze, at the hands of Master Mold no less. Mystech, the very entity she valiantly opposed as a senator then brought her BACK from the dead as the SILVER SWAN, a powerfull creature who was as INSANE as she was powerfull. She killed dozens of people as she sought revenge on HALEIGH, who was ONCE AGAIN at the heart of another disaster. NICOLAS was one of the ONLY members of the team who stood by Morgan as she sought to SAVE Sharon and LIBERATE her from the toxic programming of Rick Riley. He used his skills to help set her free from the programming and poison running through her body.

He helped her in the aftermath, providing her with a home and support even when other members of the team were terrified to be in the same room with her. It was moments like that where he was truly at his best. Sharon is returning the favor. Honoring the memory of Gustav, the man who loved her after she lost her husband and son to Mystech....the man who raised Nicolas as his own long before the revelation of Dominique and Set.

Am i very happy with him at this moment? NO. Would I be the one best suited to dealing with him right NOW? NO. But SOMEBODY had to find him and deal with him and Sharon was the best qualified to do it.

We don't know what she's saying to him now, but with all the changes she's been through even after Arklay, i can safely say that "CODDLE" isnt the word that comes to mind.

He is the son of Set and he isn't innocent either. Why is it okay for him to shed a few tears and everyone coddles him. But if Haleigh owns up to her mistakes and admits she'll do it again that people throw her to the wolves. I just don't feel that's fair. Both are guilty but Haleigh accepts her actions and underneath it all she feels sorrow too but she knows she can't go back in time. She honestly believed she was saying Morgan from a gruesome fate."

who among us IS? Even I have had my moments of darkness and despair.

and have you been watching the same thing that i have? no one here could or WOULD coddle him. This isnt about PICKING between Haleigh and Nicolas. That's like asking someone if they want to be shot or hung. What isnt FAIR is that the mess THEY made continues to GROW. Morgan's wounds are constantly REOPENED and more and more people are drawn into the SINK HOLE that they created.

What Haleigh "believes" and what IS are two very different things.

But it seems like I can't be there for Morgan and Haleigh. I would like to but I'll hurt them both in the end and myself. What do I do, Karen?"

some people are beyond help, Blaze. Haleigh can't be helped until she comes to that in HERSELF. I say that as someone who has TRIED to force her to face herself before. but if i have to resort to the use of full force MAGICK just to get someone's attention then its a lost cause from the beginning.

You can't be arrogant to assume you can be all things to all people. you need to do RIGHT by those who deserve it and MORGAN should come first for you. Haleigh has a sister and her name is AVA.

 

[Siren]

"It was a beautiful spread, Gisele."

The voice of two woman chatting increased in volume as Claudia opened her office door revealing herself and Gisele Bundchen ending a friendly conversation.

"Make sure you have your publicist get back to me on the details of Victoria Secret fashion show. I don't want it leaked just yet."

Gisele was just one of many famous and successful models that Affinity Models represented. Alessandra Ambrosio, Adriana Lima, Naomi Campbell, Stella Ebanks were just a few of the current models Affinity had under their belt, but some of their tops stars such as Tyra Banks, Cindy Crawford, Heidi Klum all started with Affinity and shot into stardome. It was the reason Affinity was the top saught after modeling agency throughout the world. Claudia leaned forward, giving Gisele a cheek to cheek kiss before bidding her farewell.

"Ciao."

As Gisele left, she passed by Morgan which caught Claudia's attention. She looked put together on the surface, but it was clear as glass to Claws that she was still reeling from her fight with Haleigh. However the brunette wasn't fully aware just how badly the fight escalated after she left.

"Ms Victoria. So glad you could pry yourself away from your personal dramas to make the meeting on time."

Claudia casually gestured toward her open office door, offering Morgan inside. Telling her secretary to hold all her calls, Claudia enetered her office and immediately headed for her desk; taking a seat behind it and crossing her legs. Closing a few opened files that were on the desktop, she slid them off to the side and watched as Morgan made herself comfortable.

"Is that your portfolio?"

A retorical question, Claudia held her hand out not bothering to wait for Morgan to say yes.

"I have to admit, I was surprised to hear that you wanted to get back into the industry. [flipping through the photos] Beautiful...[pointing to an avant garde photo of Morgan] But the modeling bug IS addictive...[looking up at Morgan, Claudia gave her a polite smile] or so i've heard."

 

[Spellbinder]

Affinity Models

"
"Ms Victoria. So glad you could pry yourself away from your personal dramas to make the meeting on time."

Good afternoon, Miss Zacchara. So glad to see that you are running on time. ( )

<< Morgan walked with poise and confidence as she took Claudia's cue to entire the large office suite and seat herself on the other side of the desk.>>

"Is that your portfolio?"

A retorical question, Claudia held her hand out not bothering to wait for Morgan to say yes.

<< Morgan handed Claudia the portfolio. She didnt have to reply, nor would she have. By now, her record spoke for itself and she knew it. >>

"I have to admit, I was surprised to hear that you wanted to get back into the industry. [flipping through the photos] Beautiful...[pointing to an avant garde photo of Morgan] But the modeling bug IS addictive...[looking up at Morgan, Claudia gave her a polite smile] or so i've heard."

<< sitting with poise yet not looking stiff, Morgan watched casually as Claudia went through the portfoilo. it was clear from the setting and what Morgan had observed in the reception area that Affinity was L.A.'s answer to Illustra. >>


<< She nodded as she made polite eye contact with Claudia.>>


Modeling allows me to work as hard as i play. Fashion is something that touches all society, its a pulse that can't be ignored. Having the skill and ability to tap into that pulse is what sets us apart from others in the industry.

How far one goes depends on who they allign themselves with. Affinity is the west coast's foremost authority on the pulse of fashion. Its the only natural choice for me as I look for representation.

<< She spoke with the voice of experience as she was ready to produce the firm offers she already had. offers that would bring Affinity into the world of cosmetics (MAC) as well as insure their mark being made on the top fashion magazines the world over AGAIN.>>