The Blackout Party

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Seated in an old antique whicker chair, Pandora tucked her one leg under the other in a half indian-style sitting position in an attempt to get more comfortable. Wearing a pair of white draw string comfy pants that hung low on her perfectly sculpted hips and a pale yellow fitted distressed t-shirt, Pandora opted to stay barefoot and casual. Her alburn hair was left down and straight, cascasing over her shoulders and stopping slightly below her collar bone. Scooping a fork full of eggs off her plate, she looked up hearing Morgan arrive. Greeting her with a warm smile, it was nice to have the company of the six in Minerva's mansion....but she wished it was under better circumstances.

"Good morning Morgan, you look refreshed today."

Finally eating the fork full of eggs, Pandora placed her utensil down and traded it for a cloth napkin to dab her mouth clean.

Pandora, thank you for all your help in everything so far.
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"Oh, no need to thank me....you're all family. I would do anything needed to help you. Plus, it's been wonderful having so much company around the mansion."

Reaching for the pitcher of orange juice, Pandora's eyes caught a glimpse of Persephone who sat quietly picking at her plate of untouched food. As a friend she felt helpless. Persephone was constantly reassuring everyone that she was okay, which very well may be the truth physically, but Pandora knew Persephone was merely sugar coating how she felt so she wouldn't come off as weak or needy.

[to Persephone] "Orange juice?"

Persephone - "No, i'm fine."

Pandora nodded reluctantly and began to pour herself some as Karen spoke about Alison's vitals growing stronger and stronger by the day. It was great news....but Pandora secretly wondered how Alison was going to react once SHE woke up. It had only been two days since Persephone regained consciousness and the tension was still high. Would Alison react in the same way? Would the self induced coma cause her to not only heal in body but in mind? Or would she be WORSE?

"When do you think Alison will regain consciousness?"
 
Lifting her hand in a 'no thank you' gesture to the maid while shaking her head no, the woman nodded and quietly took the tray of fruit over to Delilah offering her some more. Persephone didn't have much of an appitite since being back from the alternate timeline....which was a bit odd considering she was starved through most of her delightful stay. Perhaps it was her own unique physiology at work, or maybe it was just stress. Either way, Persephone sat quietly, pushing a few pieces of cantalope across her plate.

good morning everyone!
Click to expand...

Looking up to see a cheerful Morgan enter the sun room, Persephone finally placed her fork down on her plate, giving up her attempts to eat.

"Morning."

Propping her elbow on the table, Ava rested her chin in the palm of her hand, listening to everyone converse. Wearing a black spagetti strap top and light vintage wash jeans with no shoes, the warm summers breeze kissed Ava's exposed skin, ushering her into a daydream-like state as everyone continued to talk. She half heard what Morgan, Karen, and Pandora were talking about...Alison's name registered in her head a few times, but for the most part Ava sat quietly lost in her own thoughts. Subconsciously running her fingers back and forth along the edge of her plate the sudden noise of a glass breaking behind her caused the goddess to uncharacteristically become startled and jump in her seat with a gasp, her hand knocking her half full glass of orange juice over on the table.

Pandora - "Oh!"

"I'm sorry...I just..[looking over her shoulder to see one of the staff picking up a broken glass she had dropped, Ava shut her eyes knowing she needs to get ahold of herself, especially in front of Morgan and Karen] got startled."

Finishing her sentence, Ava stood along with Pandora, placing her cloth napkin on the spilled juice knowing that everyone at the table knew Ava was never easily frightened. A staff member quickly came over and assured everyone that he could clean up the mess. Nodding to him, the goddess reluctantly sat back down, tucking some chocolate locks behind her ear. Giving the man an apologetic smile as he quickly finished dabbing up the spilt juice, Ava knew this little incident would be going straight into Karen's notes. So much for prooving she didn't need the doctor's mandatory therepy sessions.
 
Minerva's Mansion- sun room

<< Karen enjoyed her morning meal...a bit more than she'd usually eat but she seemed to have had a bit more of an appetite lately.>>

<< as Pandora spoke and Persephone picked at her food with an unenthused glare, Karen replied.>>

She could wake up at anytime really. Physically, there's nothing wrong with her at this point. She's recovering quite nicely. She may be reluctant to leave her "place" on the astral plane now. I've been reluctant to prod her, but i may have to with a visit to the astral plane myself. Her body could suffer stiffness and weakened physical strength from a prolonged coma like state.

<< as the glass of juice was accidently dropped on the floor, those at the table were more noticed of Ava's startled gasp than the glass itself. accidents will happen, but Ava was a bit jumpy still.>>

It's allright. It's just like getting back on the road after being nearly annihilated by a drunk driver. even the smallest things can cause extreme defensiveness.

<< the staff came to clear the table for those who were finished. Karen herself looked around for a moment as the other attendant cleaned up the broken glass. at that moment, a small device in her purse, sitting on a chair nearby began to beep. she went to retrieve it. it was the remote monitor for Mike back on Aerie and it revealed that the MED KIT was being USED...and that there were two large objects..ANIMALS nearby.>>

....

<< she looked up.>>

it appears that Mike may be in trouble. the monitor shows his med kit has been opened and that he is in close proximity to two large animals! this is the third time. I've told him about squaring off with the creatures in the wilder areas of Aerie.

<< bringing forth the two way device Mike left her, Karen activates it.>>

>> Mike? This is Karen...are you allfight? your Medkit has been opened! Please respond.

<< she waits.>>
 
Minerva's mansion- the sun room

<< Morgan smiled as Karen discussed Alison.>>

It'll be so great to see her awake again...

<< Morgan couldnt be thankfull enough for having Ava and Alison safely back with them.>>

I know its been very different at times in the mansion since Barbara's depature, Pandora, but you've been a big help to us. She'd be so proud and I'm very glad that you and Alison have formed your own bond as well. You're family too and even after we're gone, you're always welcomed to visit Aerie and if you ever need help, you just holler and we'll come running.

<< The Six's family included a wide array of beings, and having a "mythological character" among them was not too much of a stretch, considering they also had a goddess, as well as an immortal weather witch who USED to be a human mutant but now lived in Limbo. Ava kept herself reserved, but she looked much better than even a few days ago.>>

Ava, Onyx is outback, she's being fed and exercised. It was a sound move for Nicolas to bring her here...so that she would be at ease knowing you were back.

<< at that moment, a glass fell, startling Ava as the others looked over. Karen reassured Ava that there was nothing to worry or be embarrassed about but Morgan knew Ava well. Ava wouldnt receive Karen's reassurance too easily. She was harder on herself than anyone else was...she expected herself to have the same nerves of steel she'd always had. It was unrealistic...but then again no one there could TRULY know how Ava felt...unless she talked to them. The therapy sessions with Karen were only helping a bit.>>

<< Karen discovered that Mike could be in distress and was now radioing him.>>

Mom, if you need me to open a disc to bring him here, just say the word...maybe i should check on the others in New York too...just in case.
 
MIke went to the stream, his new charges in tow. As he undressed and washed, he coaxed the pair over as well, rinsing them off and using his wash to clean them as well. They were enthusiastic about the play, but not as much about the washing and so, as Karen radioed him, he was waist-deep in water, cleaning himslef so that he could visit Minerva's mansion and Karen.

Due to his state of undress his communicator was on the rocks, and he did not hear Karen's signal as he played and washed with the young wolves.
 
"Karen I'm---nevermind."

:: Shaking her head, Ava was getting extremely tired of saying 'i'm fine'. Probably about as much as Karen and Morgan were tired of hearing it. Standing from her chair, Ava decided to kill two birds with one stone: pay Onyx a visit and get some air. ::

"I think i'm going to go see Onyx. Excuse me."

:: Rounding the table, Ava headed for the door but stopped short, knowing Karen would remind her that they still had a session in an hour. ::

"I'll be back in an hour."

:: And with that, the goddess left the sun room and headed down to the large sprawling yard where Onyx and Haleigh's dogs were playing. Putting on large black sunglasses, Ava smiled seeing her cat in a pouncing position behind a large bush, waiting for Haleigh's Great Dane pup to walk around the corner. It was entertaining to see her panther--a cat that could easily kill any of the animal companions the six had--play so gingerly with them. Walking onto the grass with bare feet, Ava watched as Onyx lept into the air startled as Haleigh's two other dogs snuck up behind her. Chuckling, Onyx went flying around one of the numerous trees that filled the estate; dogs at toe. ::

"You're nothing but a big baby."

:: Onyx's ears perked up, just realizing that Ava was there. She quickly came trotting over to her master to greet her. ::

"Aren't you?"

:: Kneeling down on the grass, Ava rubbed Onyx behind the ear; the cat instantly purring. Haleigh's dogs soon came running over as well, bathing Ava with kisses. ::

"Oh whoa...ahh..hey there. Nice to see you too."

:: Laughing softly, Ava gave them a pet as well, until finally the dogs decided that playing was more entertaining than fighting for Ava's affections. Onyx, however, stayed by Ava's side, laying down next to her. Sitting on the soft plush grass, the goddess watched as Haleigh's dogs continued to play. ::
 
Minerva's mansion to Aerie

<< Persephone decided to go visit her baby, Oynx AND she knew that the doctor would remind her of their session later and beat her to that. Karen nodded and watched Persephone, whose tone and body language still suggested "uncomfortable"..."I'm Fine" was starting to be STRETCHED across her face.>>

your body may be back, but your mind and your spirit are in a totally different place. you wont adjust, until you realize it's OKAY to bend to forces beyond your control, kowing that you'll recover from it.

<< Karen looked at the two way.>>

>> MICHAEL! RESPOND please.

<< Karen's voice was sharp toned as she bellowed. STILL nothing.>>


Allright...

<< she tood up.>>

no need for a disc, Morgan. I'll go there myself. have the daytime medical staff on alert in case Mike is seriously injured and needs critical care.

<< looking to Pandora.>>

If you'll excuse me. I shall return.

<< with that, Karen thrusts her hand up, a rushing harp like sound is heard as she disappears in a chime...and REAPPEARS at Mike's campgrounds...not having changed into her flying suit, but ready for anything.>>

Mike?

<< carefully stepping in her sandals over the brush.>>

all you allright?

<< she couldnt hear anything...but then there was the sound of water, flowing water and splashing...she also noticed blood, and the smell of ...dead flesh...>>

ICK.

<< her face contorted with disgust as she looked about. fearing the worst.>>
 
Mike was just finishing washing himself, allowing the cool water of early morning to calm away the earlier exertions. As he was toweling himself off, brushing his teeth, and stepping out, he saw both wolves' hackles rise as they growled, sniffing back towards camp. They were getting more agitated as they started bac quickly to the campsite. That was when he heard the soft call of Karen's voice.

Mike? Are you allright?
Click to expand...

Forgetting everything, Mike dashed back in order to beat the wolves to camp (admittedly for their safety as much as Karen's) and turned to bring them to heel by placing a hand in front of each wolf's large muzzle.

Stop!!! Down!!!

They still growled softly but managed to stay in full control as they conceded pack lead to Mike. He turned to Karen and smiled at her, trying to figure out what was going on. Karen would notice that Mike was now more chiseled, his muscles larger and practically popping out in the sun. Mike had apparently not eaten as much as when he was with them at Aerie, and his hard work could be easily seen as the entire array of abdominal muscles could be seen while he stood before her. He came forward to greet her, touching her face.

Honey!! What are you doing here? I was coming to see you later.
 
Aerie, the wilderness

<< Karen gasped as she saw TWO unusual looking WOLVES coming out of no where.>>

goddess!!

<< she lifts her hands, which are now encircled in golden halos of magick, preparing to defend herself when MIKE dashes into view...her eyes widen as she sees that he has some sway over these feral looking creatures. her heart rate is racing and she was prepared to slay the creatures if she had no other choice. but the fact that they seemed to slowly listen to Mike was even more surprising.>>

<< her stare held for a moment until she blinked and looked at Mike...>>

...what...what is going on HERE!?

<< she bellowed. Mike came forward, looking leaner than before, obviously his time here had an effect on his physique. but she wasnt sure if had done anything for his BRAIN. she pushed his hand away as she gave him one of her famous intimidating stares from those opal blue eyes and perfectly shaped eyebrows.>>

you didnt answer your communicator and your med kit was opened! i came here to find BLOOD and dead flesh on the ground...and then these two...ANIMALS come charging out of the forest ready to devour me. I was going to have to use my magick to defend myself and YOU appear, seemingly in COMMAND of these creatures?

Have you FORGOTTEN how to check in? or were you too busy auditioning for the remake of TARZAN to remember that people would be worried about you when you didnt answer?

<< standing with arms folded, she looked up at the man. clearly upset and rattled.>>
 
Mike saw his hand slapped aside by a very upset Karen and as she gave him the business, he could hear growling behind him. He shushed the wolves to silence (damn they are smart!) and responded to Karen's questions.

Karen, this pair of juveniles were nearly killed by a twelve foot short-faced bear when I came along to help. Their parents and their smaller siblings were all killed, but we got each other out of the situation. I used the medkit on the female, not knowing it was rigged to tell the PLANET I opened it. After I treated her forelimb, we all took a bath, where the communicator was away from me for the first time today. I am sorry, hon. I did not mean to worry you and I planned to come visit today. This is all an honest mistake.

He reached again to touch her face and stepped forward, taking in her smell as he did so.

God, Karen you smell like HEAVEN. It is SO good to see you.
 
Minerva's Mansion- the recovery suite

<< while Ava sat with her big cat on the soft, lush lawns of the estate, watching Haleigh's dogs frolick. Sharon's gryfalcons soared high up in the air, gliding at some points, climbing high or swooping at others. Tinkerbell sat high up in a tree, nestled down on a thick branch, watching everthing and everyone silently. Tink was always among the smaller animals of the Six but she was the one that was most diva like AND she was an enchanted familiar, giving her a few special abilities. She'd out smarted Haleigh's dogs before, teasing them into a chase or two and then disappearing through a shadow, leaving the dogs disoriented and frustrated. But as the dogs grew a bit older and Haleigh and Morgan's own relationship improoved, Tinker seemed less antagonistic of the animals. She and Onyx regarded each other curiously. Tink would come near Onyx on RARE occasions, ready to disappear if Onyx made too sudden a move and Onyx seemed to know she was dealing with a distant smaller "cousin" feline.>>

<< Morgan was watching them all as well from a window, the window of the suite where Alison still lay. the animals seemed to be enjoying their time outside in the fresh morning air and Persephone seemed more comfortable in the natural surroundings of the estate. Nicolas did a good thing by bringing Onyx here for Ava, Morgan could see it just by watching them. She pressed her hand against the glass window as she looked upon them all, holding the small white kitten in her arms. the fluffy white kitten purred a bit, giving morgan's hand soft 'kisses' as she stroked the kitten's fur.>>

we're all in recovery it seems...

<< she spoke aloud as she looked down at her kitten>>

how naturally we move here at the mansion, and its only been 6 months since our lives...our personal "empires" as they were...were destroyed. we live in exile on Aerie and we've already had one major scare/adventure...and now here we are. half the team is back in NYC on a mission that could draw us ALL back to the states soon and the other half is here...in Minerva's mansion.

<< she looks over at Alison.>>

I never would have imagined this...nearly 2 years ago when we first began.

<< as she watches Alison...she tinks about the many faces, people who have been apart of the Six and no longer with them. some moved on, some died, others simply ...>>

....vanished.

<< Tempest, Prophet, Shockwave, Bane, Frost, Foxfire...>>

we've been so fortunate....and I'm sure we'll go on to do better still....but Ava continues to be standoffish and Alison...doesnt seem to WANT to wake up..even though mother says she can wake up at anytime.

maybe she knows something ELSE is coming...eh little one?

<< she asks the kitten, as if the baby could give her an answer. the kitten, th us far has not shown any signs of being enchanted, like Tinkerbell.>>

<< Morgan leaves the window and moves over to Alison's bed.>>

Alison...please...wake up. Come back to us.

<< she sets the kitten down on Alison's bed...knowing that Alison was fond of cats too. the kitten crawls up to Alison's stomach and begins to nestle down as Morgan takes Alison's hand into her own.>>

I'm so sorry...that you and Ava suffered as you did. I blame myself...once again for being too overwhelmed and somehow losing control. we rescued you...but we were ALMOST too late...Ava doesnt seem like she'll EVER forgive me or be the same as she was. She resists my mother's attempts to help...and she is rigidly "cordial" with me. Here i am, a woman who was known as a ball buster...FRETTING about things that are most likely beyond my control. I feel so SILLY sometimes.

<< squeezing Alison's hand.>>

but in the good ol' days..when it was just US...right after VALIANT. You helped snap me out of my psychosis about Blaze and Black...we brought Illustra to new heights...we kicked ass and took names on AND off the runway. YOU were the catalyst for the original six coming together....and though the names have changed, the game has changed....none of this will be right without you.

Haleigh, you and I are the only originals left! even Delilah didnt come on full time until much later...

<< she looks at Alison's face.>>

please...come back. whatever you're doing...on the astral plane. you dont have to do it alone. PLEASE let me at least help you. you're my SISTER.

<< Morgan held Alison's hand within her own up to her own face and closed her eyes...trying not to cry...as a soft chime is heard and a silver pentagram of mystic flame forms around the bed. a spell is cast and Spellbinder takes herself to the astral plane to find Alison. >>

Alison??

<< her icy voice echoes across the seemingly endless expanse. it has the look of a clear, starry night in space...the way Alison said she saw the time streams on a clear vision.>>
 
the wilderness of Aerie

<< Karen heard growling too...and her opal eyes immediately darted down. her perfectly arched eyebrows lifted with the expression of "ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?" Mike shushes the wolves.>>


hmph. the very idea...

<< she speaks with disdain, but beneath that lies the very REAL concern she has about being in such close proximity of feral creatures, at least not without Persephone to exercise her power over all animals on hand to keep them subdued. Mike seems to have some kind of "understanding" with them though. a credit to his survival skills and wilderness savvy.>>

a 12 foot bear!? there are creatures on this island that we dont know about. SOME of these creatures are MYTHICAL by the average human standards Mike. You can't go gallavanting through the wild areas of Aerie and expect to make friends with them all. this is not the time for you to be some well armed ...RICHARD ATTENBOROUGH.

<< still, the wolves remained in th eir laying positions. SOMETHING extreme must have taken place for them to even begun bonding with a HUMAN. Mike explained that they lost their parents and younger pup siblings to the giant bear. How he and the wolves seemed to work together. and now he was giving them a BATH?>>

well...

<< she seemed less upset, but not entirely convinced it was wise for him to have these unusual looking wolves in his camp.>>

they are still animals, Mike. They arent small or enchanted like Tinkerbell..they could revert at ANY moment.

<< he attempted once more to be affectionate with her...and this time she wasnt as quick to rebuff him. still, she looked rather stern. he asked about her scent. Karen couldnt help but smile...just a bit as he put his hand to her face again.>>

It's vanilla essence aromatherapy oils and beauty products. my daughter and i have used them for ages. I conjured some for us ...in an attempt to help us both enjoy some smaller comforts from our former lives.

and DON'T think that i remotely APPROVE of this...what you're doing here. you and your new found..."friends" here are going to have to REMEMBER there's other people AND animals to consider when you visit Minerva's today.
 
Minerva's Mansion

my name is Alison...

:: gun shots, search lights, wailing sirens, burning cars, screams, panic, growling dogs, psychic hounds...sentinels, helicopters, war machines.::


i am the keeper of time

:: she runs, with Persephone. They hold hands to keep together, covering each other's sides as they find cover.::

I am a precog i see time forward, backward and all in between

:: they fight back, they do what they can...but it is not enough.::

I am witch, with the power to channel chaos magick.

:: CHAOS all around her, antiseptic labs, cold blue lights, cold metal instruments, machines, cruel men, brutal, torture.::

i have climbed the highest mounts, stalked the darkest caves, in search of the secrets of the earth....not knowing what drove me. but i FEARED nothing.

:: she screams until her throat cracks. her head shaved, her body wracked with pain and poison....everything blurs, the pain, the violation, the trauma, the FEAR. it all combines...and strikes one final blow into...UNCONSCIOUSNESS. PITCH BLACK.::

from the time i left home until now...everything was so clear. and all at once nothing meant anything. my life was no longer my own. i could see nothing. i begged for the comfort of DEATH...and now...where am i?

where am i?

:: the question goes unanswered for days, weeks...but images, flashes, memories become less and less "machine gun" like in their feedback within her mind. things begin to calm, the pain leaves, replaced by numbness, then the slow, cautious sense of COMFORT. the nightmare apocolypse that she had forseen, yet her team had avoided in her timeline had found her just the same, but NOW she knows WHY. It was ...an accident. a stepping disc. it wasnt their reality, it was someone ELSE'S. they WERE there...and now thhey're NOT.::

it's okay to come back...

:: from the black void...a mumbled sound...it grows...::

Morgan: alison?? please...come back!

:: and for the first time, Alison's eyes OPEN on the astral plane and she SEES again...she SEES like she used to...the TIME STREAM its CLEAR again...she see's a violet hued astral form coming toward her from the distance. another foe? another enemy? NO.::

Morgan: Alison??

Alison: MORGAN??

:: Morgan calls out to Alison. Alison REMEMBERS... and all the things Morgan said at her bedside...she hears.::

my name is Alison...and i remember...EVERYTHING.

:: Alison reaches forward, to Morgan and at that moment...::

back in the real world

:: Alison's cobalt blue eyes open for the first time...and blink...as Alison is now full conscious and awake. the monitors all reflect the increase in her brain activity as well as her heart rate etc. ::

I remember....
 
Persephone
Persephone
Wow, I could seriously picture this as a promo for a movie or television show. I loved this post!
Aerie- wilderness campground

Mike smiled as he managed to elicit a smile from the witch before him. He grabbed her into his arms, only now realizing that he was still NUDE. Still, he held her tightly, smelling her neck as he nuzzled her.

MMMNNNN...Look, let me get dressed and I will be along quite soon, OK? But for right now...could you heal her?<<points to Xerxes>> She...saved my life and broke her foreleg in the process.

At this point Karen would see that the looks of both wolves had softened to her as she was held by Mike. His move of approval of her made her acceptable to THEM as well and their tails began to wag slightly as they relaxed...
 
and so

<< the doctor was hardly finished with Mike. in fact, she began to wonder if she could abide his taking these kinds of risks for much longer. it was something she had to settle inside herself as well as discussing with him.>>

<< still she did honor his request to heal the young wolf. the two animals seemed less standoffish with her. and she made it a point to observe them carefully. she kept her emotions in check, using her skills as a psycho therapist, knowing that animals could sense and react to emotions such as fear. her eyes remained clear and her facial expression stern. a sign that she was not going to be second fiddle to them or ANY animal.>>

<< shortly, Mike returned and Karen took them all back to Minerva's where the wolves were promptly and humanely tranquilized and given over to the professional animal care givers for proper cleaning, defleaing, vaccinations and more. Karen was greeted with the news that Alison had awakened and she rushed to the suite to see the newly awakened Seer who was now embracing a teary eyed Morgan. Mike and Delilah arrived as well. >>

<< Persephone and Pandora had also been informed of Alison's awakening as well.>>

back at the Hellfire Club

<< the members of the Six now knew that the person responsible for the assault on King Enterprises was a WOMAN, though no one had a clear discription of her. no one questioned had been a witness to Magnuss' murder, but one did reveal that he was actually in fear of his life after being attacked by a scorpion he had found on his bed. he was killed several days later after he went on record denouncing the forced buy outs of King Enterprises stock. >>

<< but now, the Six were finding less and less leads and it seemed like they were lost within the mansion. it was pitch black everywhere. the halls, the passage ways all seemed to lengthen and warp with no defined boundaries or space. it could be Malice's doing or Enchantra's both could cause this effect with their powers, but there was no indication they were anywhere nearby....and there was still the matter of Dominique, the woman whom they could not gain ANY definate information on yet. The only way they were going to know more of HER was to confront her face to face...which is EXACTLY what Malice was counting on.>>
 
The news of Alison regaining consciousness spread like wildfire within the mansion. Quickly making her way out to the sprawling back yard where Persephone had mentioned going to during breakfast, Pandora spotted her old friend sitting in the plush grass with Onyx sleeping next to her.

"Persephone!"

Jogging over, Persephone shifted her body as she turned to look over her shoulder at Pandora; Onyx mirroring her masters movement as well. Finally reaching Persephone, Pandora smiled.

"Alison's awake, she just woke up a few minutes ago."

The news was great, usually enough to put a spring in anyone's step, but Pandora looked puzzled as she watched Persephone look away as if she simply heard what they were having for lunch later on. Her friends eyes were concealed with large dark tinted glasses causing the immortal a bit of trouble as she tried to read what exactly Persephone was thinking in that moment. Pandora had known her for so many centuries even the smallest brow twitch or narrow of the eyes gave her an indication to what was going on in Persephone's head. But lately even without the help of large glasses, Pandora found it extremely difficult to get anything out of Persephone besides an emotionless smile of 'reassurence' to try and proove that she was alright. Pandora shook her head gently as she looked down upon her friend.

"P....aren't you going to go see her?"
 
outside minerva's mansion

Resting back on her elbows with her legs outstretched in front of her and crossed, Persephone's eyes were shut [although not seen] as she bathed in the suns rays. The dogs seemed to calm down, finding a shaded spot under a large tree to sit and relax while Onyx laid on her side, sprawled out and enjoying the suns beams as much as her master was. It wasn't until Persephone heard her name being shouted from behind that caused the goddess to push herself up off the grass and turn to see Pandora jogging over.

"What's wrong?"

"Alison's awake, she just woke up a few minutes ago."
Click to expand...

What should have been a moment of excitment and relief was anything but for the goddess. Her eyes shifted away from Pandora as her mouth parted in an attempt to speak, but nothing came out. She was happy Alison had finally regained consciousness; it meant she was finally well enough to come back to 'reality'...but it also meant Ava would have to face Alison after everything they had been through. She managed to keep to herself for the most part after returning from the alternate timeline. She did have sessions with Karen, but Ava never really dove into what she had experienced during those many months of being held captive. But now, she would have to look at Alison and know that there was no hiding from facing what they been through. To look into her eyes and remember that it was HER voice Ava heard screaming for mercy, her pleads and anguish that still haunt her dreams.

"P....aren't you going to go see her?"
Click to expand...

Ava looked up at Pandora with shaded eyes and nodded just barely.

"Yeah...i'll--i'll be up in a few minutes."

Pandora was hesitant to leave, knowing from the tone in Ava's voice that something was off, but she reluctantly nodded and slowly made her way back to the mansion and up to Alison's room with the others. Blankly staring at the grass, images of their capture played in her head like a movie. Shutting her eyes, Onyx immediately picked up on Ava's distress and began to nuzzle her leg like a mother cat would a frightened kitten. Parting her dry lips, Ava placed her hand on Onyx's head, petting her feline.

"It's alright....i'm fine."

And with that, Ava pushed herself up off the grass and began to make her way back into the mansion to see Alison.
 
Hellfire Mansion

Blaze couldn't help but grin at Haleigh's comical routine, "Its definitely not that Hales." Winking simultaneously to tease the hybrid as she carried on. Nodding to acknowledge that Haleigh would remain behind to survey the crowd and the like.

Everything seemed calm so far but pandemonium was sure to break out, the fire elemental was sure of it. Especially with the Black Queen added as the new addition to the Hellfire Club or what Blaze liked to label "The Drama Mafia." Blaze had been surveying the three queen's just as pitch-black interwove through the crowd to bathe them in darkness. Blinking her eyes, Blaze's green eyes had to adjust as the sage-green would flicker an unusual cascade of yellow around the iris. Being able to wield fire had its benefits, allowing her to see almost in an infrared shade due to targeting the unique heat signature Heat that was at her beckoning call, which would provide brief shadows of the Hellfire Club members. Side-stepping a few hurrying members that nearly came crashing into her, obviously in a hurry to get to their respected suites. "Jesus, its like Black Friday in here except there's no chunks of hair weaves on the floor or people fighting." A devilish smirk crawled on her glossy lips before she utilized her heighten senses to locate Sharon, Haleigh, and Nicolas.

With Sharon and Blaze making use of their enhanced senses, Haleigh and Nicolas managed to move through the mansion a little easier. More and more people would clear out as the group ascended to the second floor. "Stop guys." She called out smoothly to snap her fingers as a brightly lit fire would illuminate itself upon the fireplace nestled in the corner. It would provide enough light for them to spot a very intoxicated man. A curious brow rose as Blaze watched him stumble and even slur his words. "No more sparkling bubbles for you, pal." Sarcasm dripped like venom from her tongue as the group neared him. Haleigh would take the time to request that Blaze usher the woman out of the room.

Moving over to the woman, Blaze ran a hand on her shoulder as her body would be engulfed with a low heat to ease her tension. "I'm sorry but this is a private party. You'll find everyone has retired to their respected suites. Be careful going down the stairs." Moving her along to open the door for her, Blaze would quietly shut it behind her.

Interview after interview was taken as almost everyone they spoke to had been coerced into selling their shares. Blaze remained near the back of the room, making sure no unexpected visitors barged in. Although one of the men caught her attention. "Scorpion stings?" Moving over to the group to listen and even see the wounds across his neck. Putting the pieces of the puzzle together, "Odd that he's even still alive to begin with at the amount of wounds across his body. Yet...scorpions usually never attacked unless provoked, defending their territory, or for killing their prey. Scorpions are more nocturnal than anything and are usually timid creatures. This place doesn't exactly look like it would house such creatures." Blaze had her doubts and judging by the evidence they had collected it was no coincidence these people were threatened. Each of them had invested stock in King Enterprises and now it was gone.

"Does anyone think this is just too much of a coincidence between all these abnormal activities and the new Black Queen?"

She spoke out loud as the flickering flames would shed some light on the subject or rather the surrounding perimeter of the area. Although the animated flames would soon extinguish as the team moved further into the mansion. "Malice and Enchantra wouldn't allow just ANYONE into their little club. She would have to be a huge resource to them....its obviously safe to say that Dominique isn't human. I'd put my money on this new Black Queen that she's the culprit behind these attacks."
 
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The blackout began.... the patrons rushed to their rooms, giddy with excitement. The four remained where they were, and Haleigh encouraged that they close in tightly to avoid being swept away from one another in the momentary chaos. None of them had any trouble in the dark.... Sharon would have superior sight, Blaze clearly had her own advantage, Nicolas could use his telepathy as a cat used its whiskers.... and Haleigh had night vision, evident in the eerie red glow of her pupils. They began to make their own way, sticking close together.... Nicolas mentioned floor plans and offered help.... Haleigh seemed to have previously been distracted, thinking in binary code that ran through her mind so quickly, it would escape Rampage before he could translate it.

Hmm? Oh, yes, of course.... no, thank you... I've got the plans right here. There's a VIP suite..... its well hidden and only accessible by passages that aren't evident unless you know where to look.... It's very extravagant.... no doubt for the inner circle. The Queens are most likely there... Give me a minute... I'll map out the shortest route.

Haleigh slowed to compute it.... running through various scenarios.... and as she settled on one in particular, Blaze called her attention to a drunk man and the girl he was after..... Haleigh identified him immediately.... he was a former shareholder of Nicolas' company.... Haleigh's red eyes were harsh on him... but it was too dark to see her glare...

"Blaze.... escort this young lady out of here.... she doesn't need to see this."

She says menacingly, never taking her eyes off the man. Surprisingly, though, the man required little encouragement. He came out with the details almost instantly.... and they moved on through several interviews, getting conflicting descriptions of the person behind it all... but everyone DID agree that it was a woman. They let the man with scorpion stings go.... he had been especially intriguing.... and Blaze was curious as well. Haleigh shut the door behind him as Blaze spoke.

Firebird said:
"Odd that he's even still alive to begin with at the amount of wounds across his body. Yet...scorpions usually never attacked unless provoked, defending their territory, or for killing their prey. Scorpions are more nocturnal than anything and are usually timid creatures. This place doesn't exactly look like it would house such creatures."
Click to expand...

"No.... but I remember scoping out sites to build the headquarters for the Meridian Trident [her relief organization based in Cairo] Egypt was LOUSY with scorpions. That one guy mentioned someone in egyptian garb..... scorpions are culturally symbolic: in Ancient Egyptian mythology they are associated with Set, he was the God of the Desert, Chaos, and Storms. I'm not sure what THAT signifies.... but I DO know that Set is the brother to Life and Death-- that is to say, he is brother to Osiris, the god of Death; and more importantly, Isis, the GODDESS of eternal life and rebirth. We know that it's a WOMAN behind all this.... [pausing] I'm not saying it's DEFINATE... but it's a lead. Another interesting fact.... the egyptian Book Of the Dead refers to Isis as 'She who knows the orphan'. [fixing her eyes on Nicolas] She was definately giving you extra attention. Like she knew you already.... like she HATED you. Any idea what that's about?"
 
Hellfire Club Suite

Nicolas performed telepathic analysis as each person was interviewed by Haleigh. Each of them had a DIFFERENT vision of the woman, but there was a similarity; the woman was CONVINCED that she was actually FIGHTING evil with her actions!! How, he did not know.

As they finished with the last of them, a man with several scorpion stings, Haleigh and Blaze offered their thoughts as he was asked what he knew about the new queen.

The scorpion stings are illustrative, these scorpions are either bred or otherwise procured for torture's sake. A person suffering that many stings is dead under any NORMAL circumstance. If a scorpion stings you and does NOT kill you, you kill it. That he withstood that number of stings indicate that he either was UNABLE or AFRAID to kill the scorpion, that he was otherwise withheld from doing so, or that there were so many, all at once, that they all stung him before he could do anything. Any of those scenarios suggest something metahuman, probably magic in nature.

As for Ms. Devereaux, I cannot get a fix on her at all. That also suggest a mystical connection, as her level of mental protection is both passive and beyond anyone in this room, except POSSIBLY Sharon. I do not know her. I can remember pretty much anyone that I met from age five on. She must know me from before then, if what you are saying about Africa is connected to her, maybe she knows something about me at a very young age. That's all I can think of, but I cannot imagine what her connection or interest in me could be. Or her apparent hatred for me.

Nicolas began to pace again, becoming more intent as he rolled things around in his mind. he stopped, facing Haleigh.

It is apparent that they will not easily let us leave and that this...PERSON has information about me and/or what is going on with the charities. No need to keep them waiting, I think. At least if we go to them it is on our terms, rather than waiting for the shoe to drop. You have the plans, we can certainly MEET with the queens as we are ready.
 
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