Nightmare in Melrose Place

[Seer]

<< everyone returns to their apartments and reflect on what they experienced, what they learned from the darkhold. there's more to the story...some of which they can find out, MOST of which has yet to be told for the first time.>>

<< daylight comes and the zaccharas and the six both decide not to share the evenings events with one another, not sure if they can be trusted.>>

<< this is only the beginning for both groups though.>>

<< the day begins...gray and overcast, slightly breezy and everyone has to get started with their day. everyone looks a bit more tired than usual, with echoes of the nightmare in their mind.>>

<< Ava has left for Aerie, to try to reach Hecate. Karen is out shopping on Melrose Avenue and looking for an apothecary. She noticeably left the building without saying goodbye to Mike. Morgan is on her way to Affinity Models. Sharon is in the courtyard with her silver gryfalcons. Alison and Delilah are inside of apartment 1 and Blaze is in apartment 4, tending to Tinkerbell and the small white Kitten. >>

<< NICOLAS has not yet left MP this morning and Haleigh is still on hand as well. >>

<< and as for the Zaccharas? well, life has to continue forward for them too, despite them not knowing "what's next".>>

<< the nightmare isnt over...>>

 

[Fusion]

MP -- Apt 6

Claudia: "IT'S NOT JUST A DREAM!"

Beyond looking a little unsettled, Clara didn't much react to her sister's outburst. Claudia reiterated that it was her LIFE, her PAST, and Clara unfolded her arms, supporting herself by the counter… concern written on her face. Claudia explained that she lied because she wasn't sure how Clara would react.

"Claudia…. [gently] you know…. Daddy… he's always tried to tell me all sorts of things about you. [shrugging] I never cared about any of that. I don't care what you've done in the past, and I don't care WHAT you're dreaming about. What I CARE about is YOU. You're my sister and I LOVE you and there's nothing that you could say that would change that."

Claudia finally relented… and relayed a story about Trevor's son, Ric Lansing… and falling in love. Clara wasn't so surprised about Claudia being with Ric… she KNEW who he was and knew that he was a FOX! She was SURPRISED that Claudia looked so guilty about LOVING him…. It didn't make sense to Clara. Love was nothing to be ashamed of…. But Claudia was clearly upset about it. Clara was going to try to explain 'love' to her sister… but Claudia went on…. To explain that Ric had been showing up in her dreams… dreams that were sexual but decidedly UNENJOYABLE. Well… that'd be enough to upset anyone.

"Well, I'd venture to guess that RIC isn't behind this. He'd have NO reason to subject me or Johnny to nightmares, his interest would be solely in you. Whoever's doing this must be able to 'read' us... And twist dreams to scare us. Hey. [touching her sister's forearm gently] This is nothing to be ashamed of, Claudia. Sex dreams are completely normal, and the rest of it…. That's someone ELSE'S doing. It's not YOUR FAULT."

Claudia: "I didn't want to tell you before because I KNOW how much you despise Trevor-- I do too. But Ric isn't anything like him… and I just didn't want to hear lectures or…"

"Look. I know better than ANYONE that just because you're the spawn of Satan doesn't mean you have to be Lucifer Jr. Maybe the expectation will precede him but I'll be the FIRST to allow him the chance to prove he's his own man. Every DAY I have to prove that I'm may be the HEIR to the Zacchara Empire… but I'm NOT 'Tony reincarnated into a cute little girly package'. And besides… if YOU fell in love with him… he must have been something really special."

Claudia: I don't know. I didn't want to have to tell you what HAPPENED in my dreams with him…..I promised myself I would never end up like my mother."

Better than ending up like MINE… Clara thought, glancing at the floor. Clara's mother had died trying to protect her…. From her FATHER. She sighed gently, as Claudia continued, saying she never wanted to let a man defeat her or hurt her.

"You and I are special, Claudia. We're STRONGER than our mothers… because of Daddy. We…. Can protect ourselves from men in way MOST women can't. [pausing] but in our dreams…. We can be completely powerless…. We can be paralyzed. We can TRY to escape and simply fail. That's why YOU CAN'T hold yourself responsible for the outcome of your dreams, Claudia… ESPECIALLY if someone ELSE is tampering with them."

Sighing, she went over to the breakfast bar and sat down on a stool… she was exhausted but completely WIRED and she was frustrated that she couldn't make sense of ANY of it.

"I guess it makes sense to target you separately with individually tailored dreams… to unsettle you, and cause confusion between US so that the joint dream is even more disconcerting. Although that MIGHT mean I've got a special nightmare of my own on the way. I guess I'll have to MAKE SURE I stay awake. No notable symbolic link, huh? Maybe it's the voices, did you hear them during OUR dream? What do they say?"

 

[Siren]

Claudia sighed out in relief. Clara would assume it was because she finally got her dreams off her chest and Clara's reaction wasn't what Claudia thought it would be. In reality it was because Clara bought the entire ridiculous story. She still 'had it'....that was atleast comforting to know. Claudia atleast bought time with this story about Ric, and although it made her look like a basket case in front of her sister, it was definitely better than option two.

I guess I'll have to MAKE SURE I stay awake. No notable symbolic link, huh? Maybe it's the voices, did you hear them during OUR dream? What do they say?

"Yeah...same here. [lifting up a mug] Coffee?"

Claudia smiled. A small, short laugh came from her due to her own lame joke. Handing the mug to Clara, she asked about the voices. Claudia rolled her eyes.

[casually] "Oh you know. The usual. I'm a slut. Whore. Unforgivable, tretcherous, tramp who destoryed my family. Blah, blah, blah. [taking a sip of her coffee] If I didn't know any better I would swear daddy was behind this."

Claudia smirked, Clara knowing all too well their father's favorite adjectives for Claudia were something steming off of the word 'whore'.

"Honestly, I don't know if they were during the joint dream or not. I don't know WHEN reality became the dream. [looking over at the clock] Shit, i'm late for my meeting. [looking back to Clara] I've got to go, but if I think of anything else i'll call you, okay?"

Claudia exited the kitchen and made her way around to the bar where her sister sat. Taking her face in her hands, she gave her a kiss on the cheek.

"Thank you for being so supportive. I love you, Clare-Bear."

Claudia smiled before quickly heading down the hall and into her room to grab her purse and keys.

"Ugh, do I look okay?! I've been wearing this outfit since last night, but I don't have time to change......[rushing past Clara, Claudia quickly stopped and did a 'turn'] I don't look like I just had a one night stand and going straight to work do I?"

Still wearing dark washed boot cut jeans, a black fitted turtle neck [to cover the scratches on her chest] and blood red spike healed boots, it was the outfit Claudia put on last night to go out in, but never got the chance to due to supernatural reasons. Her hair was straight and parted to the side; the ends subtly curling under naturally. It wasn't the most 'professional' look, but she was the damn owner, so screw what others thought.

 

[Firebird]

Apartment 4

"Easy with those claws, missy!"

Smirked Blaze who was showered with soapy water from the kitchen sink. Her hands would scrub through Tinkerbell's wet coat, despite the avid protest of the frisky feline.

"Keep it up and I won't be giving you any catnip."

Winking down to her while the small white kitten was on the kitchen floor pawning at a toy mouse that was filled with catnip.

Rinsing Tinker from the soapy shampoo, Blaze drained the water from the sink while picking up the enchanted familiar. Wrapping a cotton towel around her to dry her quickly.

Putting Tinker down onto the tiled floor, Blaze giggled at the look she was given.

"Oooh, if looks could kill!"

Tinkerbell's paws and back feet would try to shake off the additional water.

"Oh please, you're not soaking wet!"

Blaze moved to pick up Tink but she scurried off as she shook her polished coat.

"That cat is such a Diva."

Walking over to the small kitten, Blaze gingerly scooped her up and the toy before entering the living room. Placing the white kitty on her plush cat bed before sinking down onto the sectional. Most of Blaze's shirt was damp from Tinkerbell. Crossing her jean-clad leg before flipping on the television.

 

[Fusion]

MP -- Apt 6

Claudia: [casually] "Oh you know. The usual. I'm a slut. Whore. Unforgivable, treacherous, tramp who destroyed my family. Blah, blah, blah. [taking a sip of her coffee] If I didn't know any better I would swear daddy was behind this."

Clara stirred sugar into her coffee, nodding knowingly.

"That DOES sound just like him."

Claudia went on to explain that she wasn't sure if the voices were in the joint dream… and it made sense… Clara didn't know when the dream began EITHER. Realizing the time and remembering she had a meeting, Claudia rushed around to gather her things so she could leave, after thanking Clara for being supportive.

"Of course… I love you too. [glancing over at the clock as well, talking mostly to herself as her sister left the room] Isn't Demetri usually here by now? I'm STARVED."

Claudia came back in, still wearing what she'd had on since just before the dream, but looking fabulous none-the-less. There came a knock at the door… likely Demetri, their cook, just in time.

"You look wonderful, Claws. Knock 'em dead."

She replied, with a wink. She let Claudia get the door, since she was on her way out anyway, and Clara instead went to tell Johnny the private talk was over so he could put in his breakfast order and come back to join the conversation.

 

[Spellbinder]

Affinity Models

<< the new day had come and Morgan hoped a hot luxurious shower would help wash away the pain from the night before. one thing was clear though...whatever happened, it was MORE than a dream and something or someone had saved her and her friends and family from the jaws of the seige perilous. >>

<< the fear she had felt...it was nauseating, crippling and painfull. never had she felt THAT terrified, save perhaps the night she fought her father off of her mother, or when battling Black during her time on Valiant...or the night she died ...via the seige perilous. but each time felt like the FIRST TIME.>>

<< she lavished her body, and tried to push on, but her mind couldnt help but dwell on the memories and on Nicolas, who was the object of her fear. It had began with bitterness, mistrust and then went to hatred...now FEAR? from a logical perspective, his betrayal of her and the bitter blow out in the courtyard yesterday WOULD have caused her to regress in some of her issues with men in general, but to go as far as she did?? even SHE was troubled by that.>>

<< she had time to think and for now, she could do so clearly.>>

<< after she was done showering and getting herself together, now wearing a fitted, long sleeved blouse with a nice plunging V neck, a pencil skirt and some high heeled boots Morgan grabbed a cropped leather jacket and her attache'>>

I'm leaving now mother, Blaze said she'd come over to take care of the cats for me today. ...but...you know how to reach me if you need to [ referring to their bond as mother and child] I'll give you a lift to Melrose Ave.

<< both Karen and Morgan were well dressed, looking stylish for the time of year it was, but beneath their well put together looks, BOTH women were tired, WEARY in their minds. knowing who their foe was didnt change that he was on the offensive and even their magick coudnt fully protect them. There was still much to uncover, to understand...and neither one could afford to cower in fear while they did that.>>

Karen: alright dear, but let's leave now. I dont want michael to see me.

Morgan: << wondering why her mother was avoiding Michael, but she decided not to press it now.>>....okay. as soon as we get out of the courtyard and into the jag, i'll teleport, drop you off and drive the rest of the way to affinity.

<< Blaze came and Morgan and Karen greeted her. Morgan thanks her sister for taking care of her babies for the after noon and will see her later and with that, the two witches leave together. their high heels click clacking through the courtyard as they walked out and to Morgan's jag. >>

<< after dropping her mother off, Morgan arrives at Affinity, parking in the underground lot, and as she gets out... off in the distance behind her she sees, that shadowy FIGURE again. narrowing her eyes, she tries to make sure its not just a hallucination. it looks SIMILAR to Nicolas, like the figure that attacked her in the courtyard yesterday evening.>>

....

<< from behind her oversized gucci shades, the sorceress stood for a moment, but as soon as she blinked...he was gone!>>

<< after a few moments, Morgan walked, making her way down the path toward the elevators. her high heeled boots made the most noise as they echoed with each each step. she stepped with poise and purpose. but as she reached the elevator and it dinged with arrival...>>

Barbas: You can't get him out of your head, can you? He's watching you, even now! you saw him yesterday....last NIGHT and now today! He's going to finish what your father started! He's a MAN! Don't you regret ever trusting him? SLEEPING with him?

<< Morgan looked down for a moment, frowning ...and as she looked back up, she gasped as the figure who at first glance seemed to be Nicolas was now beside her.>>

"Nicolas": Don't you know there's no such thing as SAFE SEX?

<< Morgan may have had a start of fear, but that was all it was as she swings her arm backward and SLAMS it into "his" neck...targeting his adam's apple and then she spins around to confront him.>>

TAKE THIS!

<<ZARK!

<< an eldritch bolt! it blasts her assailant...and he feigns being hit and hurt as he flies back. Morgan advances , manifesting her soul sword, the arm which grips it now covered in eldritch armour as well as that shoulder.>>

how's THIS for "PROTECTION" you BASTARD!

<< as she swings the soul sword with deadly strength and dexterity, the apparition of "Nicolas" fades out and the sword slams into wall next to the elevator. Morgan, now feeling the rush of adrenaline looks around fiercely, but there's no one there...and suddenly the elevator doors open, and a few people come out, seeing her standing there looking rather BIZAAR.>>

I...I was just...i dropped my attache.

<< she had dropped. THANKFULLY they didnt see the eldritch armour, but they DID see the tremendous damage to the wall and the scorch mark...and Morgan played it off like she hadnt noticed it. gathering her things and hurrying into the elevator. it shut...and she exhaled.>>

DAMMIT!

NOT AGAIN!

<< was Nicolas stalking her? playing some perverse game? was he fooling everyone else or was SHE going insane? from being crippled by fear now on the way to being trigger happy...this wasnt good. and the day wouldnt get any easier, once she found out CLAUDIA had gone and signed NICOLAS as the male signature super model. Claudia was KNOWINGLY adding fuel to a fire that she would soon be burned by and it was a shame, considering both women were being menaced by the same creature.>>

<< arriving to the floor of Affinity Models, Morgan steps out, once again poised and looking presentable, her oversized gucci shades hiding the lingering look of distress in her eyes as she strode past main reception and was greeted by the office manager. The woman lead her up to another floor to show her to her large "corner office" where she would be able to set up shop. Morgan was unusual for the crop of Models that Claudia had at Affinity. She was older, but also more experienced and savvy to the business side of it and was bringing several high end accounts to the agency which she would solely represent and service...this would only add to Affinity's clout. But despite this being the start of something new, it would not bring much relief for a variety of reasons.>>

<< Morgan had a meeting with MAC later on this afternoon to discuss the details of her upcoming photo shoot, television spot and spokesmodel campaign for their lipstick and lipgloss lines. SHe was unaware that Claudia was in a meeting of her own...>>

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas returned with Mike to his apartment, mostly by force of habit. The demigod showered and changed again, going for a comfortable pair of slacks with a cotton shirt, perfectly fitted. He nodded to Mike as he left the apartment, deciding to drive his car to his meeting with Claudia.

As he drove, he reflected on what had occurred and thought of who could have saved them. it was obvious that was the case, as the dream was doing what Barbas wanted. So who could do it. What he knew of Barbas suggested only a high-end magic-user or a world-class telepath.

Malice? Yeah RIGHT. He HIMSELF might have been able, definitely before his ill-fated battle with Aphrodite, but he didn't, and he knew of no other living telepaths greater than he and Malice. Dominique? She would have told him somehow by now.

Even beyond that, how would they take the fight to him? That was what had distracted him a bit as he pulled up to the office building.

Nicolas walked up to the elevator and went up to the executive offices, wondering what on EARTH could have banged it up so badly. He figured that this must be new, so he slowed the car and fixed it as he rode along. Couldn't hurt to be nice...

 

[Arsenal]

Mike changed clothes and nodded back to Nicolas as he left for his meeting. He got dressed in a comfortable pair of jeans and and a t-shirt, then decided to head to check on Karen before he left for the studio.

KNOCK! KNOCK!

Mike waited...and waited...and then realized that Karen had left without so much as a word. He realized that he didn't OWN her...but the lack of respect to at least say something on the way out. Mike was nearly PISSED, but said to himself that maybe she'd just gone out for a moment and hadn't thought to saying something.

Mike shrugged and headed out, firing up his muscle car and heading out to Universal, where he was to meet with some execs who needed advice of a military nature...

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Melrose Ave.

<< walking down Melrose Avenue, Karen looked elegant in her whit3 blouse with a silver bell blue cashmere cardigan and matching pencil skirt and some alligator high heeled pumps. her hair was down in a simple , side parted bouncy flip and she looked pristine but beneath the put together look lurked a mind and heart churning with thoughts of reflection, concern and ...some lingering fear.>>

<< images of MIKE in a bad way, flashed in her mind try as she may to block them.>>

<< that whole night was a wild ride of terror... a dream within a dream? an astral nightmare? or something all together different?>>

<< Karen had BARELY been able to save Mike. her magick had only been able to help his body and she and Sharon were ill equipped to deal with the threat....she remembered how the fear creeped up on her like a fog, overtook her. she held on to her daughter as only a mother could even as Barbas closed in on them.>>

<< EVEN NOW, it seemed like she was being watched....every where she turned, it felt like someone was behind her.>>

<< she couldnt bare to see Mike right now. He had tried to encourage her, to tell her that she had it within her to live up to her grammie Verna's legacy, and while she vowed NOT to let Morgan fall prey to Barbas...just the sheer shock of what happened to Mike had rattled her to her core. How could she tell him how she felt? >>

<< as Karen slowed in her walk, holding on to her purse...she paused, as she looked up, the skies were gray and the wind was still breezy. She was so lost in thought that a group of children running past her startled her as they screamed and squealed. She gathered herself and smiled a bit seeing the children and walked on a bit, looking very elegant and catching the eye of a few men young and old who passed by her. she stopped at the window of a boutique, and leaned in to take a closer look at a porcelain doll. it intrigued her, but even as she looked closer at the doll....a reflection in the glass caught her eye....it was CHRISTOPHER VICTORY...looking more like a ZOMBIE! she turned around with a start! But it wasnt Christopher after all!>>|

man: :: a tall, lanky looking man with silver gray hair. rather distinguished and well dressed:: I'm sorry ma'am, i didn't mean to startle you.

I couldnt help but notice....has anyone ever told you that you look like....

Karen: Elizabeth Montgomery?

<< the man nods and agrees and Karen smiles a bit, relieved that it was "JUST a man" and not zombified Christopher about to attack her.>>

Yes....I've been told a few times. It's quite flattering, that anyone thinks I'm as beautifull as her.

man: yes, it's uncanny the beauty is quite bewitching...i'm sure it must run in the FAMILY...your mother...your GRANDMOTHER...

<< Karen blinked a few times, as she felt a wave of cold wash over her.>>

....

Karen: Thank you kindly. I must be on my way.

<< without hesitation, Karen makes her move to leave when the man grabs her arm.>>

Karen: You...let go of me right now or I'll be forced defend myself!

Man: I wouldn't DREAM of you acting out in public. It would be so unlady like, and if nothing else, you are all about pristine elegance and presentation, are you not?

<< Karen narrows her eyes and pulls back from him with force.>>

Karen: Let GO!

<< her heart races. she turns and walks from him , quickly, and toward a small crowd of individuals. the apothecary is the next block over. she reaches the crowd, and joins them crossing the street. she turns back and see's the man standing tall and unmoved, watching her from afar. she reaches the other side of the street and reaches into her purse...grabbing the phone. Her first instinct is to call Morgan or Mike, but instead she calls Blaze.>>

on the phone with blaze: Blaze, it's Karen...

<< closing her eyes for a moment and trying to regulate her breathing.>>

I am headed to Ariel's Apothecary at 2nd and Melrose Ave to pick up a few things. Would you like to meet me for lunch?

<< she didnt want to bother Morgan just yet...and she was still reeling from the images of Mike being attacked in the nightmare. She couldnt bare to face him, knowing how she nearly failed in saving him. but not wanting to seem distressed, she decided to call Blaze...and offer her to join for lunch.>>

 

[Arsenal]

Mike was in a businesslike mindset but a relatively sour mood. Karen was hiding things from him and he was not amused by that prospect. That made what was happening now very dangerous...

He was in a large warehouse, and he was scrutinizing some fight choreography presentations for a B-grade film. There was apparently some debate among the production group as to whether the fight looked real, looked good enough, and they brought him in to check it out. After the fighters finished the scene, he stepped forward, his face set in stone.

Poorly done. This guy <<points to the larger of the combatants, who was now eyeing him in a way that he eventually decided was disrespectful>> is too slow and cumbersome for what you are doing with him. Either make the fight less...athletically intense or lose the fat boy. The other guy is fine, but he is being held back. Maybe a speed vs. size battle would make more sense with these two, assuming theis one can lift more than a fork.

The guys nodded their heads, then began to whisper a bit. The one who appeared to be in charge then spoke to the big guy.

We are going in another direction. You will be paid for your time. Thank-

You believe this PRICK?! I can do the scene!! Who the hell is this guy supposed to be anyway.

The big guys steps toward Mike, who has his arms folded over his chest. Mike began to smile as no one else seemed willing to restrain the increasingly agitated tough. Mike spoke again.

You do not want to do this, chubby. I won't even have to unfold my arms to hurt you. BAD. This is your ONLY warning.

The guy took a swing. Predictable...shoulder drop, slow step, out of balance. Mike leaned back at what seemed an impossible angle as the man missed and fell forward. As the big guy started to stumble. Mike stepped to one side and kicked his foe's ankle, nearly breaking it as he spun and kicked again, hitting the assailant in the back of the head and knocking him COLD.

Now THAT...THAT would look good on film. Call me back when you are serious about making better shit with better tempered people gentlemen. Good day.



Mike walked away, smirking as he seemed to manage to get a little frustration worked off and get his point across to some people who could get him some work around here.

Now, back to the hard part. He picked up his phone and dialed...he was in no mood to beat around the bush.

Hello, Karen. I imagine there must be a damn good reason you are avoiding me right now. I am REALLY interested in hearing it.

 

[Black Widow]

MP -- Apt 5

Haleigh poured orange pekoe tea over ice and made her way back to the monitors… she looked much more relaxed than one might think she would be… she'd changed out of formal clothes into an ivory negligee with black lace accents, and a flowing, knee length black silk robe that she didn't bother to tie shut… there was no reason to bother with dressing… she had no plans to go out today…. She didn't expect any visitors. Her sister had already gone home to Aerie in search of Hecate and all the REST of the Six certainly had better things to do than drop in on the black sheep of the family.

No matter…. Haleigh went back through the tapes… she also checked in on the Zaccharas…. In short, Claudia was attacked in the bathtub, Clara revealed some kind of ability… there was a GLOW from her palm as she forced the bathroom door open… they had a short discussion which seemed tense and tempered… then Claudia left to get dressed and Clara joined her bodyguard [or was he her lover? It was hard to tell] on the couch for a drink, where they both subsequently fell asleep. Claudia, after getting dressed, fell asleep as well-- although… there was some FALLING involved-- right to the bedroom floor as if fainting. Haleigh sat up a little bit, lowering the glass of tea from her lips. She ran the feeds of both Claudia in her room and Clara/Johnny in the living room in synchronized playback…. It was as she suspected. All THREE of them fell asleep at precisely the same INSTANT.

"Oh… you three had a dream of your own last night, didn't you?"

Haleigh fastforwarded through their 'peaceful' sleep to their waking up… and observed them discussing it… trying to make sense of what was happening. But they didn't have the benefit of knowledge as the Six did… so most of their conversation was just conjecture, although Haleigh DID get to hear an interesting story about Claudia and a lawyer named Ric Lansing. Haleigh didn't have trouble accessing a dossier on the man… which she filed away in her mind just in case. Haleigh caught up to real time events… Claudia had left and Clara and Johnny were playing chess in the dining room as they waited for the chef to finish cooking their breakfast. Maybe she should pay them a call… and just give them a heads up. She didn't much care for Claudia… Haleigh knew the woman was a BITCH… and a CERTIFIABLE WACKO, and those were the GOOD qualities. But the other one… Clara… she seemed to have some sense about her and Haleigh DID still have interest in working with the Zaccharas… so it might be a good idea to keep them alive. She reached for the phone…

Barbas: Tsk tsk tsk… trying to make new friends… because all your old ones HATE you? You just can't help yourself, can you? You settle in… get nice and cozy and let them start to think that you're not so BAD after all… you PLAY with them.. Charm them…. and then when you're bored with them you DESTROY them in a way they LEAST expected… you hurt them, BREAK them and eventually… either they'll stop bothering to exile you and just LEAVE you all alone in your self-inflicted misery… or you'll get them all KILLED. And you'll pretend to be SORRY for a while… and then you'll move on… find a NEW family and start the cycle all over again.

Haleigh set the phone back down… glanced around…. and then took a deep breath.

"Barbas, is that you? [sighing] Can't you go ANNOY someone else? I do just fine haunting MYSELF, I don't need your help… so why don't you just FUCK OFF?"

Barbas: I'm going to kill them, all of them. And Haleigh… you're going to WATCH them fall, one by one. And then you'll be alone again… all alone.

"For YOUR sake, you'd better make sure that NEVER happens by your hand."

Barbas: Oh? And why is that?

"Because as LETHAL as I am on a regular basis… I'm even MORE SO when I've nothing left to LOSE… and I'm CRUELER, too."

Barbas: [eerily laughing] We'll see. Hmm… who shall I start with? Would you like to pick?

Haleigh coolly took a sip of her tea.

"Does it matter? Like you said… I'll pretend to be sorry for a bit… and then I'll find a new unit to ingratiate myself with."

She watched several of the Six depart for the morning… it was still so early. She didn't hear Barbas again for several minutes…. And eventually… she ran out of video to watch and review… and the silence of her apartment, the loneliness seemed to echo with Barbas' sinister suggestions. She HAD to get out of this apartment… she DIDN'T want to be alone, but who could she go to? Her sister was back home… her relationship with Nicolas was damaged at BEST, she was still ANGRY with him… and after what Mike did the other night when she'd brought Zach in… she wasn't particularly pleased with HIM either. That left one option…. Zach. After the blowout fight… Haleigh knew she'd probably have to apologize for overreacting on him… but it'd be WORTH it to have some company, someone to talk it over with.

She appeared in his suite at the Roosevelt, after a short search of hotel databases for his name. He'd purposely made himself easy to find. It was still quite dim in here… the drapes were drawn closed to keep out the light and she watched him sleep for a moment… remembering what her sister had said yesterday. After a long pause… she took a slow, deep breath… and gently crawled into bed with him. She gently touched his face, stroked his hair… admired him for sleeping so tranquilly. She missed him… she missed the CALM he gave her. He was still as handsome as she remembered… his body next to hers warm and firm. She snuggled up next to him, leaning in, kissing his lips gently. She rubbed his chest, smirking and chuckling softly. She had missed him as a lover as much as anything and he was RIGHT about one thing he'd said the other night. She sought comfort through sex at LEAST as much as men did. She kissed him again, rubbing his abdomen… but as she worked her hand lower… beneath the waistband of his boxers… he woke with a START and quickly grabbed her wrist.

Zach: "Good Morning, Beautiful. Waking a man up like this…. I hope you intend to follow through."

[whispering in his ear] "I still love you."

Zach: "Haleigh…"

"Shhh…."

She replied, kissing him again as he let go of her wrist….

 

[Rampage]

As Nicolas sat waiting for his meeting (he was early), he stiffened a bit. Apparently the two-way between himself and Haleigh was not all advantage, as he winced, feeling that Haleigh was making a mistake of convenience. he turned their connection volume WAAAY down and concentrated on his meeting with a very attractive modeling mogul.

He was a bit surprised at Claudia's call for something other than sex, but he realized after a little looking round that he had a Q rating of his own; apparently he had a bit of a fan base that had hoped for him to return as well. Nicolas sat grimly amused that he would end up with THIS as his legacy of his relationship with Morgan, of all things...

 

[Firebird]

From Apartment 4 to Ariel's Apothecary

Blaze had been watering a few of Morgan's plants when the phone rang. Curious, she walked over to her Verizon Voyager to see Karen's name illuminated.

Touching the screen to unlock it before accepting the call.

"Hey Karen."

She greeted, but listened intensely on the other end of the phone. If it was one thing this Blaze was good at it was detecting when people sounded upset.

"Lunch would be great. I'll be over in about thirty minutes, I've gotta quickly get ready."

Blaze would hang up with Karen quickly before walking down the hall to Morgan's closet. If it was one thing Morgan had it was a FABULOUS wardrobe. And being the baby of the family she was sure Morgan wouldn't mind if she borrowed her Donna Karen black skirt and white blouse. Morgan was only an inch or two taller than Blaze and both weighed about the same. Slipping it on before she looked at herself in the mirror.

"I really should horde Morg's closet more often!"

Chuckling, Blaze left some dried cat food and water down for Morgan's two babies before locking up. Descending the stairs she exited past the courtyard only to freeze once she released she'd have to actually get INTO a car. Nervously, she bit down onto her bottom lip. Her own roaster had been totaled. Fear crept up through Blaze as she almost started to panic. Her heart beat increasing. Shutting her eyes she thought about Karen and the way she sounded over the phone.

"No, I must conquer this."

Moving over to the parking lot, Blaze pulled out a set of keys that were inside her clutch as her hips swayed. Unlocking her back up car, a Toyota Supra in the color of fire engine red. It was more of a racing car but she loved the color. Climbing into it, she set her clutch down onto the passenger side before buckling up.

Pulling out of Melrose Place, Blaze reached over to turn on the classical radio station to distract herself. Her hands would firmly grip the steering wheel as she headed off to meet Karen. Stopping at the same exact intersection where the exact took place. Flashbacks would reoccur for her remembering driving through the green light only to be smashed by a delivery truck. Tensing up, Blaze's heart would frantically beat faster before a beep sounded behind her, signaling there was a green light. Beads of sweat trickled down her forehead.

Glancing back into her rear view mirror, Blaze's black designer pump would push down on the gas petal. She drove past with success as a wave of triumph overcame her. Sighing heavily under her breath. It wouldn't take Blaze long before she parked the car and got out.

Walking over to Ariel's Apothecary where she knew Karen would be. Looking around for the other woman as she entered the shop. Usually Mike and Karen had lunch. So it was a rather nice surprise for Blaze to be invited.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Ariel's apothecary

<< Karen's metallic pink LG Shine began to ring once more, playing [of cource] the Bewitched theme song as its ring tone. It was Michael. She answered.>>

>> This is Karen.

<< said in her formal tone.>>

Hello, Karen. I imagine there must be a damn good reason you are avoiding me right now. I am REALLY interested in hearing it.

<< Karen's eyes widened briefly, and then her eyebrows betrayed a look of agitation as Mike seemed to be "calling her out.">>

Why Michael...I don't know if I like your tone.

<< and with that, Karen twitches her nose ala' "Samantha Stevens" that distinct trademark sound is heard as Karen "zaps" the phones and the phones began to experience sudden static and interference.>>

>> Hello? Michael? oh dear...I'm afraid I can't hear you I'll have to call you back!

<< her voice goes in and out and with that, she ends the call. she reaches Ariel's Apothecary and enters, immediately noting the serenity of the store. there are many talismans, reputable books on the occult, magick, spirituality and other items, accessories, tools for potion mixing etc. >>

<< Karen begins to look around. She wonders where the mistress of the store is, but there's no sign of her at the moment. Karen can't believe what she just did, but Michael wasnt aware that she'd just been harrassed by a strange man who was quite possibly Barbas in a new form. Mike didnt know how truly unnerved she was from last night and every time she saw him, she could see the images of him in his appartment. it was too much for her at the moment. She just KNEW he'd think she was being selfish and maybe she was but even she had her moments of weakness.>>

<< soon, the chimes at the door sound off as Blaze arrives. Karen's look of dismay slowly fades.>>

What a lovely apothecary. << she says as Blaze draws near.>> I'd like to meet the mistress here...it wouldnt hurt to...warn her [about Barbas].

<< selecting a few crystaline talismans, Karen intended to charm them with a spell and use them as warning/warding devices for any mystical or supernatural presence at Melrose Place.>>

a couple of candles, and some bella donna oil for an invisibility potion...

<< she said as she gathered a few more things up in her hand basket.>>

and then we can go to lunch!

<< she said in a faux upbeat tone.>>

 

[Siren]

Stepping off the elevator [which didn't have a scratch on it thanks to Nicolas ], Claudia made her way through the luxurious office like she was on a mission. With her large black glasses still on, the brunette carried a venti latte in one hand, some folders in another, and her large red tote on her shoulder. Approaching the waiting room, Claudia spotted Nicolas waiting patiently.

"Either i'm late or you're early."

Claudia said with a smile, stopping in front of Nicolas. She nodded her head toward her office door.

"Come in."

Walking past her secretary, Claudia told her to hold all calls before entering her office and heading straight for her desk. Placing her folders, purse, and keys on the desk, Claudia took off her sunglasses giving Nicolas a once over. Gesturing to one of the chairs that was placed in front of her desk.

"Take a seat."

Taking a seat herself, Claudia took a sip of her coffee and inched her chair forward a bit before sitting back. Although she was dressed a hell of a lot more casually than the first two times they had met, Claudia still looked like a 'siren'. And with a natural confience exuding from her, it was hard not to take notice of the alluring brunette.

"Thank you for meeting with me, Nicolas. You're probably wondering why the hell I asked you here. [Claudia smirked] I became curious after our conversation at Club Rain about your involvement in Illustra. I took a look back at the numbers, and every magazine issue you were in, the sales doubled. Not to mention the grow in interest of the designers you did campaigns for. People notice you Nicolas, they feel they can relate to you. And lets face it, woman find you hot. [Claudia chuckled] I need that in a male model. I want to offer you a very lucrative deal that will be beneficial for the both of us."

Claudia placed one of the folders she had been carrying on her way into the office in front of Nicolas. It was an outline of the contract she was offering him and the substantial amount of money he would make if he decided to sign with Affinity.

"Would you be interested?"

 

[Rampage]

"Either i'm late or you're early."

I've waited for worse things in my life. It is no problem.

Nicolas entered the office with her, noticing her mean-assed walk and the fact that she could look very good even in what was undoubtedly casual wear. He smiled as she took a moment to look him over before speaking of what she had to offer, She presented him an offer sheet and he glanced over it, committing it to memory and noting the changes that needed to be made. He looked back at her, and even behind the smile, she could see the steel that had made him worthy of his father's business mantle.

Not bad. But I do see a few corrections that need to be made. The monies will not go to me. I will do the work, but only if my income is donated in full to my charity. I do not personally need the money, so I do this for fun and people in impoverished countries receive clean water and advice on how to plant and grow, even if their region is quite arid. The next is to make it clear that the time frame of this contract is to be for successive one-year shots, with either side having the right to terminate after each twelve months. That way, we have the opportunity to do something else should the need arise.

Finally, the initial dollar amount is quite generous, but since the people who will be getting it will need it much more than I do, may be we could consider a forty per cent increase? Especially since my income would technically be tax-deductible, it only seems fair.

Nicolas awaited Claudia's response as he regarded the pretty brunette...

 

[Arsenal]

Why Michael...I don't know if I like your tone.

I am sure you would not, Karen. But I am willi--

Suddenly the phones started to act up. In LA?! Made no sense at all,he was looking at the goddamn tower... unless Karen were pulling the old "I can't hear you so I don't have to talk to you" act. That was middle school shit and NOW he had to count to ten in the languages he knew. Then he stood still, opening a pocket to reveal an unusual-looking GPS.

You got tricks, Karen? I GOT tricks for you.

This GPS had a tracking device that was tied to the signals used by phones. He knew Karen's number. SO...he NOW knew where she was within about 50 feet in each direction after allowing the device to silently "ping" her phone.

Mike climbed into his car and drove off, having already used the GPS function to determine where she was located...

 

[Firebird]

Ariel's apothecary with Karen

The scent of incense and candles filtered through the quaint little shop. Blaze looked around at the various trinkets. Spotting Karen not to far away she smiled her way.

"Hey you, how's it going?"

Blaze picked up a book on the Zodiac, flipping through the spine of the heavy book before she stopped on the Aries section.

What a lovely apothecary. << she says as Blaze draws near.>> I'd like to meet the mistress here...it wouldn't hurt to...warn her [about Barbas].

"It is, I've never noticed this place before. But that's a good idea none the less."

The young fire elemental was in awe at everything in the store.

a couple of candles, and some bella donna oil for an invisibility potion...

"Cool! Wait...invisibility from who, Mike?"

Blaze teased, as she carried the book on astrology signs before she picked up a few white candles.

"You know I've been curious...and you're a..." Pausing to lower her voice, "A butt-kicking witch. Do love spells really work? You've obviously seen it all over the years."

As Karen continued to grab a few more items, "Are you making a potion?" Curious as ever, this Blaze had a love for the occult and everything supernatural. Her vest for it was about as enthusiastic as Phoebe on Charmed (Seasons 1-3).

"No rush, I love these little shops."

Blaze would inquire about what was really bothering Karen when they could go to lunch.

"By the way, thanks for inviting me out to lunch."

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Ariel's Apothecary

<< Karen smiled a bit as Blaze complimented her on being a "butt kicking witch".>>

Yes...they do. But only on humans [including mutants, witches etc] any being that is purely evil...will not be affected. and if the language of the spell is not specific or the person igniting it is foolish or inexperienced....the consequences could be dire.

<< after gathering a variety of things, Karen and Blaze enjoyed the serenity and mysterious atmosphere of the apothecary but now, Karen was concerned, she had not seen or heard the mistress not ONCE since she arrived.>>

Maybe she's in the back?

<< they walked together, until they heard the soft "tinkle" of a cat's bell collar. Karen looked down, and a very sleek, pretty all white cat peaked up from a box.>>

well look here! hi pretty kitty!

<< the kitty mewed a bit, seemingly happy to see a friendly face. Karen pets the cat, but the cat seems a bit nervous.>>

She must live here.

Where's your mommy? I want to buy some things from her.

<< Karen looked at Blaze.>>

I'm getting worried...

<< the cat climbed out of the ornamental box and slipped down to the floor, still talking a bit as she looked at the two women.>>

I think she wants us to follow her.

<< and so, Blaze and Karen follow as the cat walks, taking some hesitant steps before leading them through a doorway where a small bejeweled statue glows and hums.>>

a talisman...but it let us past!

<< Karen says as she walks along, they find themselves in a back area, that is secluded and feels very ANCIENT. the walls are stone, there are ancient carvings and inscriptions on the walls and small niches with torch flames housed by them. it reminds Karen of Ororo's citadle.>>

this is an area of consecration...where the mistress must perform her rituals.

<< there was a soft melody in the air....and the air was very clear, but still.>>

hello? is anyone here???

<< they walked forward a bit....until they found the inner most area of this back area, where a young woman sits, in the middle of a pentagram. its five points are indicated by candles. the woman looked very shaken, but she was focused, intent, and uttering a spell of protection.>>

hello...are you allright?

<< the young woman looks like she's been through a rough time, her brow betrays her strain. she cant be more than 25-30 years old.>>

I'm Karen....this is Blaze. I'm a witch too...we mean you no harm.

<< the white cat jumps up onto a plush chair and sits...looking a bit nervous.>>

Blaze, check to see if there's another entrance...or someone ELSE in this room.

<< Karen sets her basket down and crouches down.>>

young lady...are you Ariel? i'm a witch too...we're here to help...if you'll let us.

<< Karen was not aware that Mike was closing in on her. He was not so easily deterred. >>

 

[Firebird]

Ariel's apothecary

Yes...they do. But only on humans [including mutants, witches etc] any being that is purely evil...will not be affected. and if the language of the spell is not specific or the person igniting it is foolish or inexperienced....the consequences could be dire.

"That's cool that they work. Not that I'd ever cast a spell like that. I always wondered if they worked or not. In the movies it looks so glamorous and all."

Maybe she's in the back?

"She probably is, let's go check."

Upon hearing the soft tinkle, both women ventured further back until they noticed a sleek white cat. Smirking, Blaze also reached down to stroke the soft fur.

"I wonder if she's enchanted like Tink."

The two women would look at each other, "I'm sure she's fine..." Blaze's mind began to wonder though now as they followed the white cat who seemed vocal.

Entering further back, Blaze looked around at the back area that looked very ancient. Noticing the small niches with a torch nearby.

"Area of consecration? I didn't realize witches had a specific place for such rituals."

Walking just a little further to see a young woman sitting around a pentagram. Obviously for projection and probably Barbas. His main targets were witches.

"I'll check it out, yell if you see or hear anything."

Touching Karen's shoulder, Blaze walked back to where she had noticed the small niches before taking a hold of the torch that was lit. Her eyes scaling along the walls that were covered in ancient inscriptions. Walking along the walls while her hand ran across the stone wall, trying to see if there was any sort of hidden door.