Ororo's ghost story II: Raccoon City

[Seer]

<< through the fog and veil of dimensions and space, we arrive on Earth.>>

<< The United States, a sparkling, cutting edge town on the eastern side of the country called Raccoon City!>>

<< This city has come to set the standard for many others across the country who strive to meet its efficient municipal operations and booming technological and medical industries. Many of the employees across industry lines do not realize, however, that they are employed under the "Umbrella" of the global entity known as MYSTECH, the most powerfull commercial entity on the planet.>>

<< they have considerable influence in government, the financial industry, military and other key areas and their reachcan be seen in nearly every household in america thanks to their extensive and diverse range of products for the home as well as healthcare, beauty, and cosmetics. Raccoon City is the cradle of Mystech, the entire city was built and is powered , maintained and controlled by Mystech.>>

<< but their secret ambition is global domination through bio technology experimentation and it is with that in mind, that this story begins. >>

FRIDAY MORNING

<< downtown is bustling with activity and the surrounding suburban area is filled with life and vitality but all of the cities movements, the R.P.D., Raccoon City Hospital and other major functions are under the control of Mystech. many of those on staff at these places dont even know who they are REALLY working for, but some do, such as Dr. Karen Victoria a noted researcher and psycho therapist who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy and the mysterious field of regeneration. her own work is aided by the use of her magick.>>

<< The doctor is the very definition of a "cougar" although in her earlyl 50's she looks far younger than her age, very attractive and beautifull. one of the many benefits of being a witch. but behind that beautifull facade is a tired, weary soul. this woman is keeping a terrible secret and with each passing day, she grows more distant from her family and friends and colleagues but so far, only a precious FEW seem to really notice.>>

<< she is in her office within Raccoon City hospital, having just been present for the arrival of an emergency patient who was horribly wounded, BITTEN as though he'd been attacked by an animal in the arklay forest but he was screaming that he'd been attacked by PEOPLE...CANNIBALS. He wasnt the first...not for her anyway. She'd heard this before as had some other members of the senior staff and she KNEW that a member of STARS ...Michael Armstrong would be arriving to ask her some questions. >>


<< else where in the downtown area, in a stylized high rise office building that was near the city's center, Morgan Victoria and her sister arrived and were traveling to the 25th floor....Morgan was the signature model for the "Rejuvination" line, a wide line of health and beauty products created by mystech's labs and now marketed to the public nationwide. Morgan was a witch as well and her sister Blaze Fielding was a mutant. They traveled nearly everywhere together and were very protective of one another. It seemed that BOTH were suffering from trauma of some kind in their past but the only person that could get near them enough to know would be their best friend Delilah Trelevan, a member of STARS as well.>>

<< in that same large office building, Cameron King helmed his own successfull investment company. Unlike many other companies based in Raccoon City, his was truly HIS OWN. He was the CEO but because of the generous revenue he brought to the city, he was not run out of town by Mystech, he was a beacon of intrigue to other corporations seeking to settle their offices in Raccoon city and that brought with it the potential for MORE income. Cameron was clever, savvy....and a telepath. The young man had exquisite taste and enjoyed a healthy sexual appetite, but among the many women on any rung of the social ladder in this city, he could NOT make any head way with Morgan or Blaze, despite his repeated attempts.>>

<< He was informed by his secretary that he had a phone call from a Miss Alison Marble, his jet setting sister who preferred to live abroad and hob knob with her close friend Ava Cassadine, sister to Haleigh Davidoff, the former field commander of the STARS team that had gone missing recently.>>

 

[Shadow Weaver]

her private office

<< Raccoon City Hopsital. a rather generic name but the hospital and the technology it employs are anything BUT, this large, sleek facility with its many gleaming floors and busy staff is moving along at full force today, and one of its most prominent senior staff, Dr. Karen Victoria is walking through a hall in her black leather high heels, black pencil skirt and cashmere, blue V neck blouse and a perfectly tailored lab coat. with several files in hand, the doctor looks poised and elegant, passing other staff, nurses, vistors patients etc. the cool female automated voice plays over the p.a. system every so often as she reaches an elevator and prepares to zoom up to a higher floor, where her private office is located.>>

<< she looks rather cold in her facial expression as she arrives on the higher floor, down the hall and into her office suite where she greets her secretary and asks for any messages. the secretary informs her that an investigating officer will be coming to ask questions about the trauma victim she admitted.>>

<< she rolls her eyes and thank her secretary before going into her large office with its splendid panoramic city view and shuts the door before seating herself at her wrap around desk and activting her TWO computers and other information feeds.>>

<< she leans forward and rests her forehead in her palms as she groans a bit...>>

FLASH

<< paramedics arrive in the ER...a man, badly wounded, bloodied, SCREAMING and writhing is in retraints on the stretcher as they rush him in. While she is a psycho therapist by speciality she also has credentials as a general practicioner. She is the first on the scene. the paramedics' uniforms bear the Mystech logo as do several surfaces of the hospital around them.>>

<< they brief her on what's happened. the victim of an apparent wild animal attack but the MAN screams he was attacked by HUMANS, CANNIBALS!>>

<< they determine he is in shock and work quickly to sedate and stabilize him.>>

<< his injuries were severe but NOT consistent with ANIMAL bites. WHERE had these paramedics found him? They seemed so...cold and uncaring! the man died a short while later...but then...he...RE-ANIMATED. he was in restraints in the morgue but before anyone could do anything a man clothed in black with an obscuring helment and face visor arrived and put the man down. Karen was asked to release the body from the hospital by a superior officer via secure video conference...she did. she'd seen ALL of this before. it happened almost right under the noses of the genera public and yet...somehow no one knew...no one suspected. >>

<< the man's face...before and after his death and reanimation kept forcing themselves up to the forefront of her mind and memory.>>

FLASH

....

<< she opens her eyes, to look at a photo of her daughter...her DAUGHTERS, Morgan and Blaze.>>

what kind of life ...what kind of life have i given them? i'm lying to them...to myself...

<< she said softly as she felt a headache coming on.>>

<< but she knows what she must do. she will stonewall the investigator just as she has been instructed by her superior in MYSTECH.>>

 

[Spellbinder]

elsewhere in Raccoon City

<< zooming across town, to an express way bridge leading into downtown, a long, sleek black escalade stretch bearing the logo of mystech on its exterior cruises along.>>


<< inside the luxury limo is famous model and pitch girl, Morgan Victoria and her sister, Blaze Fielding. the two young women sit across from one another in the cabin with Morgan primping in her compact and Blaze looking down on her ultra sleek lap top reading news, and other information.>>

<< Morgan looks beautifull and is indeed a highly celebrated public figure thanks to the lucrative contract she scored with "Rejuvination" yet another company backed and controlled by Mystech. From Morgan's pitches, modeling campaigns and commercial spots, she influences SCORES of women (and some men) across american and spurs the sales of healthcare and beauty products that are actually created/designed/manufactured by mystech using bio technology.>>

<< but she's growing tired of this. with fame has come other problems not the least of which includes watching out for her sister, who survived a horrific trauma during a camping trip in arklay forest that has now become a dark family secret since no one else will believe them about it>>

<< wearing a black, long sleeved, low cut V neck calvin klein mini dress and black calvin klein high heels, the leggy witch crosses her long smooth flawless legs at the knee. she is indeed picture perfect both on and off screen.>>

I think i need to lose some weight...

<< she says as she scrutinizes her reflection in the compact.>>

<< the pass a large billboard which bears Morgan's face and "farrah fawcett" esque smile. beside her are some of Rejuvinate's products and the slogan underneath: "NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE".>>

<< they head into town, toward a large, stylized highrise building. the limo takes them underground where Morgan and Blaze are helped out. They know where they are going....it's Morgan's job. She has an office at this building and Blaze almost always accompanies her.>>

<< the two women keep their eyes moving as they make their way to the elevator. once inside, they stand silently again...before Morgan looks over at her slightly shorter sister.>>

Are you alright today?

<< she asks.>>

<< Blaze was a fire elemental, and a powerfull one. She was also an adventurous, inquizitve spirit but she had been the victim of an extreme, unthinkable trauma not so long ago, one that had put a strain on their entire family.>>

We won't be here long and then we're supposed to meet mother for lunch.

<< the relationship between Karen her daughter and her adopted daughter had always been close and warm, but over the last 10 years...things had become strained...Karen seemed to be withdrawn and increasingly cold...and ever since the trauma Blaze sustained, the sisters BOTH felt like Karen had not been there for them like she could have been. INDEED, they had no idea how badly Karen was hurting over it...they had no idea about alot of things but BLAZE had begun to suspect things were not as they seemed on the surface...not just with this Rejuivnation line but with her adoptive mother and some other things as well.>>


<< on their way up, they would pass the floor that housed Cameron King's offices. The hot shot CEO was a major financial player in Raccoon City and a playboy but his charms fell flat on Morgan and Blaze.>>

 

[Arsenal]

SHIT.

That was what he was going to get. He knew it even as he stepped out of his vintage Road Runner and into the hospital. He decided to take a different tact this time with the attractive doctor. He looked for someone freaking out and he found her, a young RNA who was shaking like a leaf. He walked up to her, firm but warm, showed his credential and asked her if she had seen someone with a bite, something strange.

Y-Yes. It was HORRIBLE. He screramed that a monster, or cannibal had bit him, and we couldn't stabilize him before he died.

Wait. was it a wound that would have normally been fatal?

No. It was bad but not unmanageable, but he just got worse and worse until he was gone.

It's okay, Ma'am. You had a bad day, but these days get better, I promise. Take care.

Mike patted her shoulder and gave her a cup of water, making her feel a bit better before he headed up to Dr. Victoria's office. He walked in, ignoring the receptionist as she rose to stop him.

Ma'am, I know she is expecting me, as were you. I can find my own way in thanks.

Mike knocked, then opened the door and stepped inside, closing it behind him. He walked forward calmly, smiling in spite of himself at the woman who managed to be involved in so much yet managed to appear to know so little.

Dr. Victoria? Mike Armstrong, again it is a pleasure. I understand that you had a very INTERESTING patient tonight. Could you tell me more about him?

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Raccoon City hospital

<< Karen was "allowing" herself to BREATHE normally but her moment of tranquility was ended when she heard a male voice out in the lobby. >>

<< the young man INVITED himself into her office despite her receptionist attempting to halt him. He shuts the door behind him and draws near. Karen does not get up from her desk.>>

Dr. Victoria? Mike Armstrong, again it is a pleasure. I understand that you had a very INTERESTING patient tonight. Could you tell me more about him?

<< she looked at the young man for a moment, not speaking. her opal blue eyes betrayed a cold, unwelcoming vibe.>>

Officer Armstrong.

<< she said in a disdainfull tone before finally gesturing at a seat in front of her wrap round desk for him to sit in.>>

I knew you or that young woman, Officer Trelevan would come here sooner or later.

I'm sure I could tell you all sorts of things about the patient but there's only so much I am LEGALLY OBLIGATED to tell you, considering that you are not family nor are you investigating a murder.



<< she said matter of factly as she continued to lock her opal blue eyes on him.>>

Why are you here? Patients die from trauma all the time. its an unfortunate reality.

<< the file was already classified, this patient had joined a GROWING number of patients who had met death under this circumstance...INCLUDING the re-animation. it was a BOMBSHELL with deep, far reaching implications. Karen knew that. she KNEW the danger...but she wasnt about compromise herself, her family or risk Mystech's wrath.>>

 

[Arsenal]

I knew you or that young woman, Officer Trelevan would come here sooner or later.

I'm sure I could tell you all sorts of things about the patient but there's only so much I am LEGALLY OBLIGATED to tell you, considering that you are not family nor are you investigating a murder.



<< she said matter of factly as she continued to lock her opal blue eyes on him.>>

Why are you here? Patients die from trauma all the time. its an unfortunate reality.

MIke locked eyes with her and remained standing.

That it is. People die all the time.

MIke stepped forward, leaning over her desk. He did not expect her to flinch, nor did he want her to. He did this to inspect her body posture, her eyes, her microexpressions to see if she was lying.

But what if I told you that I have evidence that this person should not be dead? That their wounds weren't serious. That they complained of a HUMAN bite? That would constitute an assault resulting in death or an attack by one of the hospital staff, or gross negligence resulting in death, any of which are classic definitions of murder. In that case, it would be in your best interest to level with me. What . Happened. Here. Dr. Victoria.

Mike stood back up, his eyes not leaving her as he looked to see her response. He was in no mood for lying, he knew this woman had secrets she kept.

 

[Prophet]

Raccoon City: Cameron's Office

"Don't test me Miller, I can be a very convincing man if I want to be..."

:: Cameron smirked to himself. Yeah, he was good at his job, and this was one of the parts that he liked. King Enterprises was one of the most successful Investment Company in the country, and Cameron had made a much more than modest living by making smart choices when it came to investing in stocks, bonds, real estate and other more personal ventures. Right now, he was on the phone with Hank Miller, the CEO of a company that Cameron had invested a lot of money in when it got off the ground, only to watch it fail horrible in it's first fiscal year, and if there was one thing Cameron didn't do, it was FAIL. ::

"Look, I helped you when nobody else would. You have failed and as we speak, I am securing the majority of shares in your company. I am giving you until the end of the business quarter which is two weeks to start turning a profit or I will take control and remove you from your position. Don't become what they said you would Miller. Failure is for those with neither the will nor the tenacity to succeed..."

:: Clicking the phone off he made a few mental notes. A side project aside from investing was corporate takeovers. The territory was new and he had to admit VERY exciting. And with what he knew about Raccoon City, he knew that any moment he might have to leave it all and survive somewhere else, but the many swiss bank accounts and real estate across the globe helped him feel somewhat secure. Somewhat. He got out of his desk and over to the window where he saw the black escalade pull up. That meant one thing. The lovely Morgan Victoria and Blaze Fielding. He watched them get out of the limousine and enter the Office Complex. ::

"What I wouldn't give..."

:: They had to be about the only women in town who had REFUSED his advances and he had to admit that it made it ALL more WORTH his time. One day. One day. The speaker phone sounded off from the corner of the room. ::

Secretary: Mr. King, your sister is on the phone for you...

"Thank you Penny!"

:: He returned to his desk, grabbed a stress ball and began meticulously squeezing it as he clicked the speakerphone over the line to his sister. ::

"Well if it isn't Alison Marble. How is my sister and her partner in crime doing today?"

 

[Persephone]

The limo ride to Raccoon City was quiet. Ava sat staring out the window for what felt like hours; watching the trees turn into city buildings. But she didn't take in the scenary...she didn't even notice it. Her mind was on her sister Haleigh.

Ava Cassadine was a very famous model in Europe, known for her 'socialite outings' with best friend, Alison Marble. She was a brazen, outspoken, gorgeous woman that lived with the mindset of getting what she wanted, when she wanted it, no matter the costs. Her attitude was what catapulted her to stardom and gained her her status. However, after hearing the news about her sister's dissapearance and presumed death, all of that didn't matter. Ava was truly upset about the entire situation....but she was also pissed off. She knew Haleigh would one day get herself into the type of trouble that she wouldn't be able to bully her way out of. She didn't care about dying, but what she failed to remember was, Ava DID. And she was furious that Haleigh kept taking these risks despite the fact she KNEW it upset her.

Subconsciously tracing her thumb along the bottom of her lip, it was apparent the elemental was in deep though. Alison--whom was sitting next to her in the limo--was making a call to her brother Cameron King who lived in Raccoon City....Ava barely paid attention. She just kept staring out the limo window, waiting to arrive in this god forsaken city.

 

[Firebird]

Raccoon City

Bright-green eyes peaked over the Dell inspiron E1705 that was cradled in her lap. Blaze had been victimized and ever since that traumatic experience the fire elemental had difficulty sleeping. She had been prescribed sleeping pills but it didn't stop the nightmares. It felt like it happened yesterday to her. The fear still crept it's way into her heart. But Blaze was a fierce woman and she wasn't about to be victimized either. Which is why she tended to bring her laptop every where with her. Any inkling to what attacked her...that monster! That thing, whatever it was.

Short, sepia locks blew away from her heart-shaped face that was styled in a classic bob. Morgan and Blaze were two of the cities most beautiful women and they knew it. Something Cameron King was also aware of. Cameron was devilishly handsome Blaze had to admit and he was dangerously charming. But everyone knew his long list of...credentials and how many hearts he broke. Blaze wasn't about to be penciled into his little black book. Just another face in the crowd or a body to be conquered.

Browsing a variety of web sites Blaze had been deep in thought when she barely heard Morgan's comment as they drove across down.

I think i need to lose some weight...

Raising her designer sunglasses on top of her forehead to glance at Morgan as though she had grown a second head. "You do not need to lose weight! Morgan you're thin. Any more weight loss and you'll look like Farrah Fawcett and she weighs all of eighty-five pounds." Blaze scolded before pulling her sunglasses back down. Blaze shook her head stubbornly. She didn't trust the company Morgan worked for, "Rejuvination". If anything it stressed Morgan out. There was something shady about that place, Blaze could sense it. Which was another area she was looking into. Things just didn't add up for her.

Her mind drifted to their mother Karen. Both Morgan and Blaze had learned to rely more on the other after Blaze's camping adventure. Almost every night Blaze had nightmares and Karen had been distancing herself. What kind of mother did that? Morgan seemed focused on her weight and Blaze had silently worried her sister could suffer from an eating disorder as most models did in order to stay ahead of other competitors.

Are you alright today?

Blaze shifted in her seat pondering how to answer that question. The sun's rays cascaded down across her Donna Karen canvas blazer and matching tie wrap skirt complete with a satin plunge v neck top. Tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

"I'm fine."

It wasn't a total lie. Today had been better but she still couldn't get past the nightmares.

We won't be here long and then we're supposed to meet mother for lunch.

"You mean she has time for her daughters today? What do you know." She spoke with a strong sense of sarcasm. Blaze wasn't entirely sure what to think of Karen. Her work seemed much more important than her own daughters. Something that irked the mutant.

By the time the two sisters arrived, Blaze stepped out. Her own athletic legs were toned and bronzed from being athletic. She walked beside her sister as they entered the building. Passing Cameron's office, Blaze glanced in that direction before looking over to Morgan.

"Well, if you're still interested in losing weight I would suggest taking up Cameron on his proposition. I'm sure he could work you out better than my personal trainer."

She chuckled knowing Morgan dismissed Cameron as well.

 

[Spellbinder]

Raccoon City - Rejuvination

<< Morgan's face frowned with defiance as her sister scolded her, but her younger sister was on to something. Morgan's preoccupation with her weight, indeed her growing insecurity about EVERY possible flaw, no matter HOW minute, with her physical appearence was becoming a problem. One thing was clear, the dirty secret was that Morgan would NOT actually use Rejuvinate's products. Per the urging of Blaze, Morgan had her contract changed to reflect her refusal to put anything not pre approved by her OWN management team" on her face and body. She had no idea how SMART a move that was. >>


<< "Rejuvination" was a plum job for the model. It gave her print and television exposure, and she became the standard for beauty nationwide...but the pressure on her, the DRAMA of the fame and celebrity...it wasnt quite what she wanted it was taking a toll on her and now, with her becoming so protective of Blaze, she became even more stand offish.>>


Yeah, "i'm fine" is stretched tightly across your face, dear.

<< Morgan said in a disbelieving tone as they exited the elevator.>>

<< passing Cameron's office and company, Blaze made a joke and Morgan scoffed.>>

Please. I'd rather drink bleach than be bothered with that cloak room cassanova.

<< they rounded a corner to the reach the last stretch of hall leading to Rejuvinate's offices.>>

<< inside, the layout of the company looked like some futuristic spa more than a company office. Morgan's picture was the center image of the crystaline lobby and the place was abuzz with activity.>>

<< Morgan was greeted by her assistant, Jennifer, who had come to mean a great deal to the sorceress. She shielded Jennifer from the unkind treatment of male co workers who viewed her as "just a secretary".>>

Thank you, Jennifer.

<< Morgan said as Jennifer handed her a mug of hot tea with lemon, part of Morgan's routine.>>

Jennifer: Miss Victoria, Miss Cassadine and Miss Marble are arriving in town today and asked if you would meet with them this evening for Cocktails at Jill's Piano Bar. Your meeting with Rejuvinate execs is in 30 minutes and your lunch date with Dr. Victoria is still on schedule. Everything is ready in your office per your specifications.

<< Morgan smiled as she took the messages and other files from Jennifer.>>

Thank you again, Jennifer.

<< looking back to Blaze to respond to her about their mother.>>

Something's wrong with her....I know it. But she wont talk to me...to US. I am worried...but I'm also hurt by this. It's like we're not even close anymore. the love is there...but the things that made our family so close are gone.

Everytime I try to call her to talk...she's busy. Now suddenly we're having lunch...part of me is thrilled...but part of me is starting to feel like we're on our own Blaze. I hate that...she's not like Christopher [their' deceased father, Karen's estranged husband] she never was...and yet now she's so cold...so distant!


<< into the circular office suite, Jennifer takes her station and Morgan and Blaze enter the inner suite where Morgan promptly seats her self at her desk in the center while Blaze takes the plush leather couch and spreads her things out.>>

I'll call Ava before i head to the meeting. When i leave...Jennifer knows not to let anyone in here and YOU don't go anywhere without letting her know where you're going.

and if there's a problem, if EITHER of you need help, you contact me A.S.A.P. Blaze.

 

[Harbinger]

riding into Raccoon City

:: Alison happily gulped a goblet of Hemlock and then signaled the attendent in the cabin for ANOTHER as she waited for Cameron to answer. Ava was next to her but looking out of the window, watching the scenery of this curious city as they entered Raccoon City. ::

Why anyone would live stateside is beyond me.

:: she said flatly as they passed a billboard featuring their friend, Morgan Victoria.::

Morgan will be calling you shortly, Ava.

:: the precog announced, already looking "ahead" into the near future. it was one of her powers, one that made her RICH early on in life. Her best friend Ava was a model and came from money and Alison quickly established herself as a mysterious socialite, UNLIKE Paris Hilton...she did not feel the need to pimp herself out for "celebrity", insteady she let the MYSTERY do that for her. Morgan was a friend of Ava's and a fellow model. they had met a while ago in Milan. They were all aware of each other's status as "supers" , people with powers. But they all kept their true natures a secret from the general populace. each using their abilities to provide them with success in life and to protect t hose they loved and cared for if needed::

:: when word of Haleigh's death and the circumstances surrounding it reached Ava, she IMMEDIATELY contacted Alison for further insight. It was Alison who validated Ava's feeling that more investigating needed to be done and with Raccoon City authorities were not more forth coming, Ava decided she would come there herself. Alison joined her, as any true friend would. It seemed like it could be another fun adventure, reuniting with Morgan and Cameron, seeing the sights, showing everyone who was boss ::

:: but as they entered the city, Alison began to sense more than meets the eye, her normal "devil may care" attitude and appetite for excess was muted just a bit as s he seemed to KNOW there was more te this city...and that they were heading right into one HELL of an "adventure".::

Cameron:"Well if it isn't Alison Marble. How is my sister and her partner in crime doing today?"

:: Alison rolled her colbalt blue eyes::

No, it's Shannen Doherty and Angelina Jolie . OF COURSE it's me, you incredible boob!

:: Alison enjoyed giving her brother a hard time. He NEEDED someone that didnt stroke his ego or swoon at the sight of him like many of these gold diggers and scheming girls around here did no doubt.::

We're in town as we speak reading in on the Arklay overpass. Ava has business here.

:: the details of which Alison would not discuss over the phone::

and we thought we'd look you and Morgan up and find out how life in Mayberry is!

:: she said with a mocking tone::

So clear out your scheduled appointments with the little tramps in your office and make way for two DIVAS to arrive and don't worry, I already know where you're located.

:: after she bids farewell to Cameron, she looks at Ava. Alison's face takes on a more somber look as she feels for her best friend.::

Ava...we're GOING to find out what's going on. I promise. But we should get as much help as we can. My magick tells me that t his town...is some kind...facade. I dont know how else to describe it...but its like something is hiding here...in plain sight! My brother is a powerfull telepath. Morgan is a witch and Blaze is a fire elemental. We'll NEED them if we're going to be able to get deep into whatever is being covered up here about Haleigh.

For now though, let's do what we do best and TAKE OVER this little town.

:: though it was hardly "little" , Alison didnt see anything impressive about the mid western metropolis either.::

:: they soon arrive to the same building where Morgan and Blaze had arrived. Only they go to Cameron's floor and company rather than Rejuvination.::

:: the two women boldy ignore the receptionist as they barge in on Cameron and Alison waves her hand back dismissively as a rushing chiming sound is heard and the double doors slam SHUT before the protesting receptionist can follow them into the room.::

BOO!

:: she says as she finds Cameron in the room with some young tart.::

Out , bitch.

:: Alison says to the girl::

real women have arrived and you don't measure up.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Raccoon City Hospital

MIke locked eyes with her and remained standing.

That it is. People die all the time.

MIke stepped forward, leaning over her desk. He did not expect her to flinch, nor did he want her to. He did this to inspect her body posture, her eyes, her microexpressions to see if she was lying.

<< Karen looked up, following Mike's every move and still looking directly into his eyes with her own cold opal blue eyes. A silent but no less bold statement that said: "i'm not afraid of you and you dont intimidate me.">>

<< she sat poised with her legs crossed at the knee, her above-the-knee pencil skirt riding up just a bit to reveal more of her smooth, bare legs supported by those black high heels. Karen was subtly using her own tricks to distract Michael, even just a bit. She remained steady, poised, with her arms folded under her ample bosom, the cleavage was tastefully displayed from her clingy, V neck blue cashmere blouse. He may have been an officer, and even a member of the elite STARS squad, but he was still a MAN and he was so wrapped up in trying to find justice that he forgot somethings never change...like men being distracted by a pretty woman.>>

But what if I told you that I have evidence that this person should not be dead? That their wounds weren't serious. That they complained of a HUMAN bite? That would constitute an assault resulting in death or an attack by one of the hospital staff, or gross negligence resulting in death, any of which are classic definitions of murder. In that case, it would be in your best interest to level with me. What . Happened. Here. Dr. Victoria.

Mike stood back up, his eyes not leaving her as he looked to see her response. He was in no mood for lying, he knew this woman had secrets she kept.

<< lifting her perfectly shaped eyebrows a bit, she pretended to be interested in what the young officer had to say. who did he think he was? Detective Green from Law & Order?>>

and what if you told me that Elvis had been sighted on a boat on Raccoon River, having tea with the Loch Ness monster?

<< she replied with knowing sarcasm as she slowly unfolded her arms and slid a manilla file across her desk and then gestured for Michael to step back.>>

a copy of the report, signed off onby ME, verified by Medical Examiner.

<< who also happened to be in Mystech's pocket, along with the Chief of Police.>>

The young man's toxicology report indicated the presence of several drugs, at least one of which was illegal and two of which could combine for DEADLY complications INCLUDING DEATH.

He was in shock and dellusional upon arrival. TYPICAL of victims of wild animal attack who have suffered extreme blood loss.

and...

<< she said with rehearsed but convincing contempt.>>

the implication that I or my staff had anything to do with, much less being complicit to this young man's death is both ABSURD and sloppy on your part. This is a HOSPITAL, not a drug house, Office Armstrong Your unfounded accusations could result in YOU and the R.P.D. being sued in court for LIBEL.

We see hundreds of patients daily in the emergency room and are DUTY BOUND to assist each and everyone with utmost urgency and care. Some are beyond rescuing, as was this young man. His death was the result of an unfortunate accident in Arklay forest. The Park ranger AND paramedics will verify these findings.

Now if you've quite finished, I have other matters to attend to.

<< unwavering in her glare. the doctor was lying through her teeth, but she, like so many OTHERS "involved" were experts at cover ups. they HAD to be. the emerging "crisis" was something that could DESTROY Mystech if it got out ....and Karen's lively hood , not to mention her family hung in the balance. the file she gave him was "doctored" but would be verified by the medical examiner, the paramedics and anyone else....the RNA he questioned would either be discreted , fired or WORSE if she ran her mouth any further. Mike would have to realize that sooner rather than later. as far he could SEE, there was nothing more here than a terrible accident but he was a member of STARS and he , along with Delilah had seen something unusual of their own during an investigation involving Blaze Fielding's mishap in Arklay Foresrt. He lost his partner Haleigh during that investigation. Ever since then...it seemed like there was a fog growing around him and Delilah. He KNEW something was amiss.>>

<< Karencertainly was stern, icy and elegant but for a BRIEF moment, her eyes betrayed a flash of distress. something was pressing on her. and as she stood up to show Michael out, she felt a bit dizzy and accidently knocked a picture of herself with her daughter's Morgan Victoria and Blaze Fielding over...the picture crashed to the floor and the glass broke.>>

DAMMIT!

<< she exclaimed, momentarily forgetting that Michael was there. it was as if the picture breaking signified MORE than just "a picture breaking".>>

<< at that moment her receptionist and a black suited, sunglass wearing security guard burst in.>>

Receptionist: Dr. Victoria!! Is everything alright?

<< the security guard was large and looked like a season pro , as he placed his hand on his holster which held not an ordinary gun, but one with ENERGY PROJECTION capability.>>


Karen: oh...yes. I just...knocked something over, it's fine.

<< she knelt down...beginning to pick up the pieces, wishing she could pick up the pieces of her own family in realy life...but she couldnt afford to lament now, not in front of HIM.>>

If you could just...summon a house keeper to vacuum the rest of this up?

<< the receptioinist and the mysterious looking security angent left shutting the door quietly as she stood back up and looked at Michael.>>

Why are you still here?

<< she asked in a weary tone.>>

 

[Prophet]

Raccoon City: Cameron's Office

:: Rebecca Everhart was a skilled woman both in and out of the boardroom, the ladder Cameron was now enjoying on the desk of his office. He leaned in kissing her neck, running his finger down her side gently as he began to unbutton her shirt. ::

"You're right, this IS much better than a working lunch.."

:: Just as things were about to get interesting, his sister and Ava BURST into his office and promptly scuffed the woman out of the office as fast as she had arrived. Quickly putting himself together he smirked at his sister and wiped his mouth off with his left hand ::

"Well Alison, you always HAVE had a knack for making an ENTRANCE..."

:: He laughed and embraced his sister in a hug. Yeah she was frigid but Cameron like to bust her personal bubble every now and then. He turned to Ava with a look of concern that he tried to hide by embracing Ava in a loose hug as well. ::

"It's good to see you Ava. Traveling has done you well. You look great..."

:: Pausing for a moment ::

"Sorry to hear about your sister.. if there's anything I can do, just let me know..."

:: Cameron tried to hide what was going on in his head. He had a good idea on what had happened to Haleigh Davidoff. Mystech. Cameron wasn't stupid and if he wasn't such a good businessman, he probably would have been dead by now too. Turning to the girls. ::

"So, you like the place? It sure cost a pretty penny. Though I am sure Morgan is convinced I bought this office space solely to get a little closer to her.. though she does drive up the rental spaces of other floors..."

 

[Harbinger]

Downtown

:: Alison was temporarily flustered as Cameron hugged her. EVERYONE knew Alison didnt like being touched...UNLESS of course your name was DIDDY . She made no secret about her dealings with him the way Madonna dealt with A-Rod. Kim Porter was no match for Alison Marble! ::

Alright alright...get off!

:: she said as she playfully pushed Cameron away.::

:: He expressed his sympathy for Ava's loss, as Alison looked on. taking in the surroundings of the of the luxurious office suite. He then asked how they liked the place::

It's cute for what it is, but face it...this town is nothing more than a metallic Mayberry.

We have reservations at the Hilton, but they didnt have diamond executive suites...what kind of hilton doesnt have THAT!? Still, we took the best rooms they had on the property. We'll head there to freshen up before meeting Morgan later this evening for cocktails.

:: Cameron mentioned Morgan and the draw she had. Alison smirked.::

Forget it, Baby brother. You have about as much chance with her as a snowball in hell.

:: beneath the surface of that, Alison knew that it was VITAL she convince Morgan and Blaze to at least TRUST Cameron. They would need to work together and watch each other's backs in the coming days...which would change ALL of their lives.::

Clear your schedule dear, two of the hottest divas the OTHER side of the international date line are in town and you're going to spend time with your big sister tonight.

:: If Alison was going to plunge head long into an unseen mystery that could very well be fatal, she was going to make sure to party HARD and enjoy the best this town had to offer first.::

 

[Arsenal]

As Mike made his play, he DID notice the doctor. He had for quite some time and they both knew it. He allowed his eyes, but not his mind to wander a bit before snapping back to examine her answer. PURE lie but very, very good. She even managed to try to threaten him, as if libel applied in a personal interview to investigate a death. It was laughable, and the doctor was reaching.

<< Karen certainly was stern, icy and elegant but for a BRIEF moment, her eyes betrayed a flash of distress. something was pressing on her. and as she stood up to show Michael out, she felt a bit dizzy and accidently knocked a picture of herself with her daughter's Morgan Victoria and Blaze Fielding over...the picture crashed to the floor and the glass broke.>>

DAMMIT!

<< she exclaimed, momentarily forgetting that Michael was there. it was as if the picture breaking signified MORE than just "a picture breaking".>>

Doc, are you alright!

Mike moved quickly, but not quickly enough to save the picture, which tumbled to the floor. He began to help her retrieve the broken glass, still studying the emotional dismay on her face when the door burst open.

<< at that moment her receptionist and a black suited, sunglass wearing security guard burst in.>>

Receptionist: Dr. Victoria!! Is everything alright?

<< the security guard was large and looked like a season pro , as he placed his hand on his holster which held not an ordinary gun, but one with ENERGY PROJECTION capability.>>

Mike stood quickly as Karen explained that she was fine. t took him less than a second to size up the guard. He was military trained, strong (but not strong enough), and he had a really interesting toy to play with on his holster. Too bad that Mike would have put three teflon-coated bullets in him before he could even get it out. He gave the guy a look like "you do NOT want to do this" and after Karen explained that she was fine, they both left, closing the door back behind them.

Why are you still here?

<< she asked in a weary tone.>>

Mike stood very close to her as she rose, looking into her eyes. His eyes were still stern, but there was a compassion there that would not go unnoticed. He spoke ina much mower voice as he took in mor eof his surroundings in this office.

Dr. Victoria...I am still here because while what you have in the report is airtight, we both know that there is much more to this story...that something is going on here, something that I want to make sure doesn't destroy the city I am sworn to protect, and that includes YOU...

<<points to the picture>>

and your daughters. Whatever is going on, we can't afford to wait until it strikes close to home to care about it. You are a good woman, ad I know that you have a lot to lose, but I NEED you...to please just give me a starting place. Karen.

Mike quickly leans in close and whispers in her ear. His strength and presence (and GREAT cologne) would not be lost on her as he urgently tried to communicate.

Why do you have an armed guard straight out of a bad sci-fi movie? Who is listening
to us right now? Slap my face and tell me to get out right now to cover yourself, I will storm out with this piece of shit report, and then call the card I left in your bra from a untapped line in 2 hours. If they ask you anything, tell them I made a pass at you. Now slap away, and make it good, Dr. Victoria.

 

[Firebird]

Raccoon City - Rejuvination

Yeah, "i'm fine" is stretched tightly across your face, dear.

Rolling her eyes, Blaze knew she couldn't pull off a successful lie in front of Morgan. The witch knew the mutant too well. But rather than reply or retort to her sister's remark Blaze left it at that.

The two passed Cameron's office which had caused Blaze to provoke Morgan with a jest. But it was Morgan who got the upper hand with a playful retort.

Please. I'd rather drink bleach than be bothered with that cloak room cassanova.

"Uh huh, you think so?"

Giggling, Blaze knew Morgan couldn't stand Cameron's playboy antics. "I'm not sure who would be broken in half if you two...well I'm just saying. With your unique ability to...break things." Blaze burst out laughing at the mental picture of Morgan and Cameron in bed as she shook it from her mind.

Both siblings entered the Rejuvinate's offices as Morgan being greeted by Jennifer. Blaze had a Starbucks Chai Latte waiting for her while Morgan was prompted of her schedule.

Taking a sip of her chai, Morgan began to discuss her feelings on Karen's strange behavior.

Something's wrong with her....I know it. But she wont talk to me...to US. I am worried...but I'm also hurt by this. It's like we're not even close anymore. the love is there...but the things that made our family so close are gone.

Every time I try to call her to talk...she's busy. Now suddenly we're having lunch...part of me is thrilled...but part of me is starting to feel like we're on our own Blaze. I hate that...she's not like Christopher [their' deceased father, Karen's estranged husband] she never was...and yet now she's so cold...so distant!

"I agree, it's not like her. I think we need to confront her at lunch today. It's not like she would make a scene in public. Something is bothering her, Morgan, and I think it has something to do with her job."

Once inside the inner suite, Blaze moved to the plush leather couch. Taking a seat and crossing her legs. She pulled her laptop out of its leather case while sitting her drink down on the nearby table next to her.

I'll call Ava before i head to the meeting. When i leave...Jennifer knows not to let anyone in here and YOU don't go anywhere without letting her know where you're going.

and if there's a problem, if EITHER of you need help, you contact me A.S.A.P. Blaze.

"Got it."

Peering over the top of her laptop to look at Morgan. Morgan had been overly protective of Blaze. While it was sweet and nice to have someone who really cared unlike Karen as of late. Blaze felt like a victim who had no rights or liberties. She usually had to constantly call Morgan or brief her personal assistant, Jennifer. Sometimes Blaze would forget to call and then usually it worried Morgan.

If Blaze could only get to the bottom of things then maybe she would feel better. But she had felt so violated. Her skin crawled just thinking about the experience.

 

[Shadow Weaver]

Raccoon City hospital

Dr. Victoria...I am still here because while what you have in the report is airtight, we both know that there is much more to this story...that something is going on here, something that I want to make sure doesn't destroy the city I am sworn to protect, and that includes YOU...

<<points to the picture>>

and your daughters. Whatever is going on, we can't afford to wait until it strikes close to home to care about it. You are a good woman, ad I know that you have a lot to lose, but I NEED you...to please just give me a starting place. Karen.

the safety of my daughters...

Flash

<< Emergency room. night. siren. screaming! Blaze. terror. monster.>>

<< Karen facing the R.P.D. and reeling in shock as she is told there will be no further investigation into the attack.>>

<< flashes of Karen in the ER. a terrified Blaze. A dismayed Karen holding Morgan.>>

Flash


<< despite his close proximity, his voice suddenly seemed to become muted to her. all she could hear was her own heart beating and the sound of her daughter Blaze shrieking, the sirens wailing, and the sound of...ZOMBIES.>>

<< the REST of what Mike said after this was BARELY registered. something about a card, later contact...>>

<<SLAP!>>

<< Karen BOOSTED the STING and impact of her smack with her magick, a chime was heard in the air...something Mike had not expected as he was not immediately aware that she and morgan were witches.>>

"The safety of my daughters?"

<< she bellowed.>>

A FINE job you displayed of THAT when Blaze was attacked and nearly MURDERED during a camping trip!

<< although Karen knew the TRUE nature of the attack, it still was a TOUCHY subject...and coming from a member of the R.P.D. who all but ABANDONNED any further investigation or efforts to see to Blaze's well being, Karen really did NOT want to hear any pleas for empathy on what Mike was trying to do.>>

you know NOTHING about what you speak. "The safety of my daughters" INDEED. I KNOW the value of the "promise to protect" when it comes from the Raccoon City Police Department. So does my daughter Blaze!

<< Michael had unintentionally touched a VERY raw nerve and it could proove to be a problem.


Be carefull what you wish for, MICHAEL....<< in regards to his investigating the unusal happenings.>> you may find that the answer is more than you can possibly h andle. and if you EVER put your hands on me again << referring to the card in her bra>> ...I'll have your BADGE for gross misconduct, sexual harrassment and assault and see to it that you are RUINED.

<< he made it TOO easy for her to forget her own indirect culpability as he tried to stand on the principal of "looking out for the city." PLEASE. his own superior worked for the same entity SHE did. She could barely trust herself anymore, why would she dare to trust him?>>

GET OUT! NOW!

<< she screamed with FORCE as her eyes flickered in a way he'd NEVER seen in a NORMAL human's eyes.>>


<< she gestures, waving her hand fiercely as a chime sounds off and the doors SLAM shut behind Michael and lock up.>>

<< she stands...fuming for a moment, before slowly exhaling. with each breath she calmed, and closed her eyes...tears began to fall. she COULD have just...crumbled and told him everything. MAYBE if it had been someone else...like Delilah? But he was too sure of himself, too full of bravado and he DARED to say he could protect HER and her daughters? when had the RPD EVER been good at that? >>

<< he was right about one thing though, something was happening, building and if something wasnt done, it WOULD strike close to home...in a way that no one could know just how BAD it would be. SHOULD she give him even a starting point? would it make her feel better? her own skill as a psycho therapist was nagging at her. why NOT do something to help ALLEVIATE the stress, the PAIN she was feeling. She KNEW a storm was coming and if someone ELSE was willing to try to blunt its damage, the RIGHT thing, the RATIONAL thing would be to at least give them SOMETHING to go on. >>

<< but for NOW? the guilt ridden doctor slowly sat down on the leather sofa against the wall and then laid on her side stretching out across it...trembling with unhappiness. she felt so alone...so isolated.>>

<< soon it would be time to call Morgan and meet with her and Blaze for lunch. yet ANOTHER event filled with uncertainty.>>

 

[Persephone]

Alison: Morgan will be calling you shortly, Ava.

Glancing over, Ava nodded. Looking back out the window, Alison started her conversation with Cameron. Their banter was cute, showing that despite the distance between them they had a good relationship. After Alison got off the phone with him, she finally turned to Ava reassuring her that they'd find Haleigh.

"I know, Alison. I trust you. I'm just.....so FURIOUS with Haleigh and the fact that she would get herself into this type of situation AGAIN. She plays chicken with the grim reaper all the time...and this time....i'm afraid she's finally lost."

Haleigh was a resourceful woman and Ava knew this. But there was something about this situation that just ate at her.....this city was strange. Everything about it gave the elemental a sick feeling in her stomach. She was truly worried that this time, Alison would be wrong.

Finally arriving at Cameron's building, Ava and Alison headed up to his floor. Giving one of the pissed off receptionists a cute 'smile' before entering Cameron's office, Alison blew the doors shut, abruptly stopping Cameron from going down on his bleached blonde friend.

Alison: "Out, bitch."

Ava smirked; the girl quickly gathering herself together before rushing to the door. Kissing the air in her direction twice in a 'bye now' gesture, the brunette rolled her eyes before unbuttoning her knee length black trench coat and revealing a sexy fitted black knee length dress that first perfectly against her body and cut low enough for some eye popping clevage. Alison and Cameron said their hello's, and finally Cameron turned to her. The expression on his face softened and Ava knew why.

Cameron: "It's good to see you Ava. Traveling has done you well. You look great..."

Giving him a small smile before returning his hug.

"Thank you, Cam."

Cameron: "Sorry to hear about your sister.. if there's anything I can do, just let me know..."

Ava nodded, appriciating his gesture and concern. Cameron and Alison began to converse once again before Alison finally stated for him to clear his schedual, that there was some partying to do.

"Good. I need a lot of alcohol and a hot man, NOW. [looking down at her phone for the time] Shouldn't Morgan be calling us soon? It's almost nine."

 

[Spellbinder]

downtown raccoon city

<< after a short meeting, in which Morgan's employer expressed extreme excitment over her upcoming ad for "Regenerate" , the latest "breakthrough" in anti aging treatments, they previewed her commercial. Morgan KNEW she had the presence , poise and beauty to promote these products. She had become something of an influence for beauty for women across america and unlike many other products on the market, "REjuvination"'s products seemed to actually WORK. no one actually KNEW what was behind this technology or what would come of it.>>

<< for now, Morgan was still on top of her game, bringing "Rejuvination" the recognition and money and making a pretty penny herself. She didnt FEEL like a model anymore, she felt like a mouth piece...this isnt what she wanted BUT it was a plum job for her and having come when she was "on fire" in the modeling industry, it was a lucrative contract to take. so WHY did she feel less and less like a valuable human being and more like a glorified pitch girl? why did she feel like her employers would try to persuade to dive off a bridge if it would sell a product.>>

<< her conflict of success versus feeling used and unappreciated ...coupled with her growing insecurities about her own beauty were weighing more and more on her and when she may not have realized it, her facial expressions showed just how "lost in thought" she was. >>


<< walking down the round hallway, she looked out of the panoramic window which gave a breathtaking view of downtown Raccoon City and the outskirts.>>

<< "Rejuvination" was a product from the minds of MYSTECH and all over town, there were subtle reminder's of Mystech's presence though not many people recognized the true origin of the logo they saw on buses, public buildings and other places. in the distance was a billboard with Morgan's own face and th at mega watt smile, a group of "Rejuvination" products and the slogan "NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE". >>

I wish it were possible for me to actually ENJOY what i do again...

<< she murmured to herselef as hand held device beeped, reminding her of her upcoming lunch with her mother and to call Ava Cassadine.>>

<< she touched the screen with her finely manicured, red painted nails and called her friend and fellow model, Ava. the phone rings.>>

Ava? Morgan here. I heard you were in town! How are you honey?

<< Morgan was always warmer with her close friends, Jennifer and sister than she was with strangers. Like Cameron, Morgan and Blaze knew about Ava's loss of Haleigh and the controversy surrounding it. H ow could she not? it was all over the news...a commanding officer of R.P.D [ and STARS] lost in the line of duty. In fact, Karen was one of the physicians connected to the aftermath of the case. No body was found but dna evidence had confirmed her last known where abouts. Morgan thought about the news and images from that...which included shots of her friend , grief stricken Delilah Trelevan and the tall, handsome Michael Armstrong.>>

<< HE would be alot more tolerable if he wasnt always harrassing her mother. Whatever problems Morgan and Blaze were going through with their mother, they didnt need some OUTSIDER harrassing her and on top of that, WHY would Morgan trust HIM? The Raccoon City police didnt help THEM when they needed it...when BLAZE needed it.>>

<< so many things...and they all seemed to be connected. How was it that people whose lives , on the surface, hardly seemed like they'd be connected had so many secret and tragic connections? was it just painfull coincidence? or was it something else?

BAH!

<< she thought to herself as she shut her eyes and shook her head, listening as Ava replied. she pushed all that "CLUTTER" out of her mind.>>

You're staying at a hotel? Well I know you and Alison can afford it but why dont you stay at my place? << a mansion in the suburban area of Raccoon city>> its outside the downtown area, quieter, private and i have all the accomodations you and Alison need. we can make a weekend of it, like the old days when we used to share hotels in Milan during those fashion show marathons.

We can talk...catch up...all that sort of


<< she trailed off as she cought sight of a bizarre looking image from an office of an executive whose door was slight ajar. the image of a male...albino apparently...with unusual looking eyes...and mouth agape. she had no idea that that fleeting image was that of a ZOMBIE a human that ha ad used some of rejuvinations products which was actually "powered" by the T VIRUS! >>

what in the world...is THAT!?


<< she then bumped into someone by mistake.>>

OH...i'm so sorry....

<< snapping back into focus.>>

Sorry Ava, something here had ...caught my attention.

<< Ava could hear the weariness in Morgan's voice.>>

So what do you say? after cocktails tonight we can settle you and Alison at my place. the limo will bring us.

<< after ava agreed, Morgan smiled a bit.>>

Great. tell Alison I said hello and I'll see you all later!

<< she ends that call and then calls her mother.>>

<< after a few rings.>>

Mom?

Karen: Hi sweetheart...<< clearing her throat.>> how are you>?

<< Morgan looks a bit concerned on her end.>>

Morgan: I'm okay...just a little...tired, with a headache. Mom you're voice is a little shakey, you sound upset, have you been...crying!?

Karen: << hesitating.>> oh no..no...I've just had a very strenuous morning @ the hospital I'm tired myself and its probably a good thing we're eating, we need to nurish ourselves. we can talk about it more then, okay?

she's lying

<< Morgan thought.>>

Morgan: Okay mom...well, Blaze and I will be arriving to the cafe in about 30 minutes so we'll see you there.

Karen: alright Morgan. I'll see you two at the appointed time.

Karen/Morgan: bye!

<< the conversation was short and disjointed, like most of their conversations had been even just before Blaze's trauma. Morgan KNEW something was tearing at her mother but the bad thing was...Morgan HERSELF was wearing down and soon she may not be even able to care because she will be lost in her OWN growing issue.>>

<< the Victoria family was coming apart...slowly but shortly just as the secret of Mystech's shadow was looming larger and would soon cast over the entire city.>>

<< Morgan returned to her office suite and found Blaze. Smiling as she ran her hand through her blonde, highlighted hair.>>

Well, I'm done with that. << Not even bothering to discuss the details of the meeting.>>

Let's get going. I just called mother, and everything is on schedule. I also talked w/ ava. She and Alison are in town. They're going to stay with us at the mansion as we have plenty of room. It'll be fun and i think we ALL could use the distraction.

<< she couldnt shake that bizarre image she saw and for a moment, her mind drifted to that and Blaze could see that she was concerned about something, even as she gathered her coat and purse.>>

<< with some last minute instructions to Jennifer before letting her know she can leave work ANYTIME after she's done, Morgan and Blaze leave together, walking side by side. Morgan struts in her high heels and makes it look far easier than it is for many women down the elevator to their limo, and off to meet their mother. >>

<< they arent yet aware that Michael Armstrong has once against harrassed their mother but the thing is...NO ONE on EITHER side can help Karen if she doesnt TELL SOMEBODY SOMETHING.>>

Mother sounded upset...like she'd been crying again. Why wont she tell us what's GOING ON!?

<< Morgan said in a frustrated tone as they rode in the limo.>>

 

[Seer]

the day wears on

<< Blaze and Morgan once again talked among themselves in the smooth limo ride, while Ava noted Morgan's decidedly DIFFERENT sound from the last time they had spoke. She would inform Alison that they were going to stay with Morgan at her mansion and playfully taunt Cameron about how he already KNEW he wasnt invited >>

<< in truth, Morgan and Cameron were friendly, they were financial peers and ran in the same social circles, but neither Morgan nor Blaze would sleep with him, that's all. He'd been to Morgan's place for a few swanky parties. lots of fun, music, dancing, drugs and yes...sex for t hose who wanted it. after all, the beautifull people often knew no limits.>>

<< Morgan, Ava, Alison, Blaze and Cameron would get together tonight at "Lipstick Lounge" , a sleek, glamorous hang out in the heart of downtown Raccoon City where the food, music and atmosphere were the desire of many but accessible only to a few.>>

<< for now Ava, Alison and Cameron would have lunch while Morgan, Blaze and Karen did the same thing ...the two groups would unexpectedly be in the same restaurant but in different areas. >>


<< and of course there was Michael, who was left with more questions than answers now. the closer he got in his probing of doctor victoria and what she knew, the more volatile and defensive she became. and what was more, she seemed to be possessed of some kind of POWER... a "super". Something he hadnt immediately suspected. BUT his partners, Delilah and Haleigh were also "supers" too. He knew that mutants and metahumans existed. he'd heard stories, seen other famous figures in the news such as the Avengers...but Dr. Victoria? he wouldnt have immediately guessed. What did that mean about Morgan and Blaze? so far these women had done an EXCELLENT job of concealing their actual status. >>

<< he KNEW Karen was on the edge. Her stonewalling him was somehow part of her overall defense but the woman was not COMPLETELY "bound" to Mystech. it was obvious that she cared for her daughters more than life itself. He REMEMBERED the case of Blaze Fielding, the young woman and some friends had gone hiking and camping in the arklay forest and mountains but something happened, a series of bizarre murders. Blaze was the ONLY survivor and CLEARLY traumatized. the public outcry was such that STARS was dispatched to investigate (though the public didnt know this) and it was during that fatefull mission that HALEIGH was lost.>>

<< Mike realized that he was on the verge himself, of getting in DEEP. It occurred to him that Blaze's trauma, Karen's extreme defensive nature and his own team's ordeal were somehow connected. He couldnt forget that night with Delilah and Haleigh...>>

night time. the moon hangs low as three well armed, coordinated and capable figures move through the forest. Haleigh Davidoff, Delilah Trelevan and Michael Armstrong. members of the R.P.D. but also members of STARS, the elite of the elite and unknowingly employed by MYSTECH

Haleigh: continue a tight search pattern. Secure the area near the incident and report back to me. stay in open communication at all times.

<< the search and recon went well enough for a while, until Haleigh, who went in another direction deeper in the forest came across a TRAIN...the The Elliptical Express! it had been idle for a while, but was still on the tracks. such an unexpected find, what was this small luxury TRAIN doing in the middle of the Arklay Forest? while she cautiously entered to explore, Mike and Delilah found Blaze's campsight! there were a few articles left behind from the group, pieces of clothing, accessories etc. and BLOOD...but what had been troubling, one of the reasons for this special investigation...was that the bodies of Blaze's fallen comrades had never been found. Blaze screamed about being attacked by humans...MONSTERS. but no one believed her. "on the record" it was attributed to wild animals. if that was the case then WHY were STARS dispatched to further investigate? it was the first time that Michael felt like they were being sent out on a mission that was too risky, with too many discrepencies.>>

<< Soon, he and Delilah had been confronted by animals alright, VICIOUS, decrepit looking DOBERMANS, there was something ODD about them. they attacked , so vicious was the attack that Delilah had to use her power over light to defend them. they couldnt outrun the pack and so after a harrowing battle, they radioed Haleigh and reached her.>>

<< running through the forest>>

Michael: Keep moving Delilah, I've got your back...just get to the train where Haleigh is!

Delilah: No heroics, Michael. I'm the "super" here remember? let's just get to Haleigh and tell her what we've found. they couldve been what attacked Blaze and her friends!

Michael: Blaze said she was attacked by HUMANS...CANNIBALS, Dee...not devil dogs.

<< they ran, keeping a sharp eye and making good time when they heard Haleigh's voice and gun fire. She was fighting off/repelling something, but WHAT?>>

<< they too reached the train, deeper in the forest. rushing inside, they found Haleigh fighting off large , bizarre looking LEECHES that could LEAP from the ground ON to them. the leeches had teeth and appeared to be carnivorous! the trio battled and beat the creatures back with their fire power and Delilah's lasers. any NORMAL person would have turned back, but STARS were the best there were. They further explored the train and were confronted with a true horror...the dead bodies they found, were decript but not so dead as they REANIMATED.>>

Delilah: what the fuck ARE THEY!?

<< after they tried ordering the creatures to stand down...>>

Haleigh: no dice, SHOOT EM DOWN!

<< the trio once again did what they did best, staying together and picking off the zombies in close quarters.>>

Michael: THIS...could be what Blaze saw, but what the hell is a train doing here?

Haleigh: i've tapped into the train's systems. its the Elliptical Express, a small luxury passenger train that was owned and operated for the Arklay Mansion, a property owned by the ellusive, super rich Spencer Family, one of the founding families of Raccoon City! the train was reported retired over 15 years ago, that's why no one thought anything of it! We need to find out what's going on here.

Michael: << working with Delilah.>> This is some crazy shit.

Delilah: Um YEAH? So our reports should be quite interesting...

<< on they went, fighting off a few more devil dogs as they explored cabins and different levels of the train. soon though the train reactivated! and NOT by Haleigh's doing!>>

<< the group battled more human creatures that would come to be identified as zombies and the primary goal now became to take control of the train as the group was whisked FAR OFF into the forest to an unknown destination! they had NO IDEA of the horror that had taken place on this train 20 years ago involving Sharon Kelly, Nicolas King and Kyle Kelly.>>


<< as if it couldnt get more complicated it began to STORM in the night sky around them.>>

<< the group had to split up with Haleigh reaching the conductor cabin and Delilah and Mike getting to the rear car to activate the control panel back there but when Haleigh realized that the train was heading to an underground passage that lead to a largely undiscolsed facility, she KNEW they could not go here...not like this. they were not prepared! they had already seen things their training couldnt have prepared them for. with zombies and leeches still posing a problem, Using her power, she SEPERATES the rear car from the rest of the train....leaving Delilah and Mike behind as she and the rest of the train hurtle off and DERAIL inside the tunnel, the resulting EXPLOSION and backdraft from the tunnel were what lead Mike and Delilah to believe they'd LOST their partner.>>

<< they were able to summon their ALPHA team counterparts to rescue them by chopper but when they attempted to explain their ordeal to their superiors, including the CHIEF of RPD and STARS commander RICK RILEY, they were told that Haleigh had been lost but that they, along with the Alpha Team would be sent back to the forest to further investigate. Delilah and Mike refused to go back and were suspended from STARS until word from a 'high authority" reinstated them. >>

<< to this day, Mike had no clue that part of that higher authority was Dr. Victoria herself who used HER influence on Dr. James Marcus to make SURE that STARS would return to the forest and eventually find the MANSION.>>

<< there was so much to deal with, and yet he tried his best to do his job...he and Delilah both. How long could it last? and where was this all leading to?>>

<< Mike had his work cut out for him but he knew his dealings with Doctor Victoria were not over...even if it was becoming more risky for him. He knew it was all just beginning.>>

<< for the evening, he would take a rare break and check out the festivities downtown, aware that some high profile visitors were in town, he knew that Morgan and Blaze, Dr. Victoria's daughters would no doubt be there. Perhaps he could talk to THEM this evening.>>

<< FOR NOW though, in the afternoon, returned to R.P.D. where Delilah was working at her desk. HE sat down at his desk in their shared, high end tech office and began to access whatever files he could on Dr. Victoria.>>

<< his subject of interest was now seating herself at the restaurant, having arrived just after Morgan and Blaze. meanwhile, Ava, Alison and Cameron arrived. Cameron used his psi powers to gently compell the maitre'd to accept their non existent reservation and seat t hem in the same V.I.P. area as Morgan and her family but far across on the other side. both groups had things to discuss, personal things...although they didnt know it yet, these things OVERLAPPED.>>