The Parthenon

[Rampage]

"Oh Nicolas, baby that aunt of yours is one hot mama! And of course, that little number she's wearing only adds to it wouldn't you say?"

It runs in the family Sally. We ALWAYS put on a show.

Then it was their turn.

"C'mon boys! It's time for me to show you off!"

She brings both men just a bit closer with her her arms wrapped under one from each of the men. Right before she takes her first step...

"Now keep in time with me, Cameron, ya hear? Last time I put you on a stage, you walked like a 3 legged donkey!"

She was half joking, but half serious too. Nicolas smirked.

Nicolas DID smirk, if smirk mean narrowly avoiding losing his shit. Sally was in rare form and she was making this all easier to do. If not for the importance of the night Nicolas would have preferred to make up an excuse and cancel the show. Mike even tried to push it but to no avail. This WAS important and the Six never stopped living just because of some threat, so forward everyone went.

And now he had an easy role to play, let three beautiful women run the show while managing not to ruin it by breaking form. He had done this already for Morgan and Sally many times and he could carry this off in his sleep. So he focused on smiling and posing as trained, knowing that he was where he should be at any moment. As of right now, that place was behind Sally, letting her be the center of attention for a moment.

Dominique: Alright, Mustang Sally show us what you've got!


The band and DJ reach the DRUM POP of the song, and extend it out. The audience begins to clap along in time with the beat.

"Watch me work, boys!"

Sally steps ahead of Nicolas and Cameron. She strikes a pose and then starts to move, revs up the audience as she swings her hips. She shimmies, showing off her buxom bosom and playful peak of cleavage & even drops it like its hot! the audience loves it and responds accordingly

"Don't just stand there, boys! What do you think I brought you out here for!?"

She danced with Cameron, who proves to have rhythm and has decent moves. Then it was her turn with Nic. Previous shows and hours laughing in the office had given them a routine to do (complete with dip!) that always managed to wow the crowd. She pops his bottom and they walk back up the stage for her speech.

And speak she did. Proudly proclaiming the familial relationship between Dominique and Nicolas as he blew her a kiss (with no hint of disapproval from Auntie D...yay!!), she then had a little more fun.

"is Dominique's nephew. He's many things, including one of my models and i get to dress AND undress him ANY TIME I WANT!"

Hugging Nicolas, she grins as he poses, flexing his muscles for additional effect. Then she moved to Cameron. Who she promptly made blush. Meanwhile, Nicolas mimes a shocked expression, then winks at the crowd as well.

Then it was time for the next star: MORGAN. Nicolas listened to the introduction and became a fan all over again as Morgan emerged. She moved gracefully onto the stage, greeting Sally and then....kissing him on the mouth during a tight hug.

Well DAMN. Maybe he WOULD make love on diamonds and sapphires tonight after all!! But the thought was fleeting as he noticed her lack of strength, her physical frailty compared to before. This woman could shotput a city bus but was wobbly in his arms. Nicolas set himself, prepared to step forward if need be as she began to speak.

TONIGHT, I come to you to announce a change. One that is happening at the right time!

As Sally said, "when the tide is rising at the flood, every body wants to get on the boat!" and the same can be said for this handsome man to my left

<< gesturing to and holding out her hand to Cameron King, he comes forward, taking her hand...which he feels is trembling.>>

<< As he joins her, a [muted] clip of archive footage showing Cameron and Morgan as they appeared together at the original opening of the parthenon plays on the media screen behind them.>>

Cameron King, the man who created this place, has recently come through transition in his own life's journey. Now he's here with the wind of change at his back. Ladies and Gentlemen, we come FULL CIRCLE tonight as I stand here before you to formally announce the change of ownership of the Parthenon- from my self/Spectra Couture, BACK to Cameron King, CEO of Zenith Corporation. A new name for a man who has even done Madonna proud with his reinvention of self.

Cameron King, it is my pleaure to present to you, the deed of ownership to the Parthenon hotel and brand with all related holdings. Now we'll watch as you carry it into the future.

Ladies and Gentleman, Parthenon's true father and your host for this evening's special event!!!

<< She leads the audience in applause as she steps to the side, now next to Nicolas. She wraps her arm up under his, holding on to him for support as she exhales, RELEAVED that she was able to step back and let Cameron take over in more ways than one.>>

Nicolas steadied her, controlling the urge to wrap his arm around her waist to comfort her further. This was almost done. The hardest parts were over. So, even as she stood there, he leaned over ever so slightly and whispered to Morgan.

You did it baby. You made it through. We are almost finished here. Then you can lean on me further.

Nicolas looked out on the audience as Cameron spoke...

 

[Prophet]

The Parthenon - Crystal Room

The lights began to fade as everyone moved to their places. This was it. The event they had thrown together in record time would either be a giant success or an epic failure, and it's opening was in the hands of none other than Dominique Devereaux.

Voiceover: Please Welcome Multi Platinum Artist, 3 Time Grammy Award Winner, Headliner and STAR of the Parthenon, DOMINIQUE DEVEREAUX!

Dominique, who he had not yet seen, steps onto the stage looking as incredibly beautiful as always. No matter what she wore, she always looked enchanting, to the point of which almost made her look "untouchable", or at least up until last night, that is what Cameron had thought.

"Go get 'em Goddess..." he whispered to himself as Dominique began to move around the stage against the backdrop of falling diamonds, making sure that everyone in the entire audience felt some kind of connection with her. It was a skill that not many in mass produced, mass marketed music knew, but when Dominique sang, you felt like she was singing to YOU and that was a large part of her appeal.

The band starts off with a bang as a smile curls up in his face. Sally was most definitely impressed as well. Mustang Sally was the PERFECT song to play as models from Spectra filled the stage, moving in synch with Dominique's moves.

Sally: "Oh Nicolas, baby that aunt of yours is one hot mama! And of course, that little number she's wearing only adds to it wouldn't you say?"

Cameron laughed, his eyes still fixed on Dominique, hoping that she would show him a few of those steps she was doing in private LATER on.

Isis: Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen. Many of you come to see me on a regular basis and for that I am always grateful. I am happy that you could be here with me tonight for this evening of excitement, change and glamor, things that are associated with the fashion world as well as the world of the Parthenon, which is, a place unlike ANY OTHER.

"Good, good..nice nod to the Parthenon, Dominique...very nice.."

Isis: Now, please join me in welcoming, the woman who not only put me in this FABULOUS DRESS, but who's classic and cutting edge fashions are also seen on the lovely young women behind me...This woman is UNLIKE ANY OTHER and when you want to look GOOD, there's no one better to turn to! Ladies and Gentlemen, this bodacious vixen IS the embodiment of "Mustang Sally" , please welcome, FASHION GODDESS, SALLY SPECTRAAAA!!!!

The crowd goes absolutely wild as he can see Sally's own eyes light up with excitement. This was a woman that TRULY loved being a part of it all. Fame, Social Status, Money, Power, Men. He had never seen anybody so truly comfortable and perfect for the spotlight.

Sally: "C'mon boys! It's time for me to show you off! Now keep in time with, Cameron. Last time I put you on a stage, you walked like a three legged donkey!"

"Well Sally, maybe you and I can work on my THIRD leg some other time"

[laughing] Sally did have a way of making a guy feel "welcome"

And So Sally, Nicolas and Cameron took to the stage and Sally became even MORE "in the room" than she was before. They take a strut down the catwalk

Isis: Alright, Mustang Sally show us what you've GOT!

The music shifts to a drum pop as the audience begins to clap. Sally plays to the audience in the way that ONLY she can as she looks at both Cameron and Nicolas

Sally: Don't just stand there, boys! What do you think I brought you out here for?

Sally grabs Cameron for a quick dance as he saunters with her in a very tango like manner as he spins her around and around and they meet back once more, cheek to cheek. Cameron had learned LONG ago that women love to dance, and that a man who can dance, gets the girl. Sally goosed him once more much to the audience's approval to which Cameron also plays up, grabbing his but and making sort of an uh-oh face before laughing and finding a few attractive people in the audience to wink at. After her dance with Nicolas, Sally takes to the podium and delivers her speech, filled with true salacious, outrageous and humorous satire that was signature of Sally Spectra. It was why her personality was so far reaching. She began to wrap up as we were about to get into the "meat" of this event.

Sally: "Now without further ado, please welcome BACK, the CEO Spectra Couture, the Newest Member of the House of Spectra family, my dear friend and bewitching beauty...MORGAN VICTORIA!!!

Cameron watched in awe of Morgan's entrance. The music was perfect and to be honest, he never looked much into Morgan's career as a supermodel because honestly at the time he was more into destroying her as a person, but watching her walk in all of these on the media screens, he had to say he was more than impressed. There was definitely a reason she was booked so much and loved by people everywhere. He looked up to where the Six was sitting and they were going absolutely insane, very supportive of their friend.

Making her way over to Sally and the boys, kissing Nicolas on the LIPS which albeit was a little peck, but Morgan had usually always been VERY careful about her private life and he had no doubt that all of the entertainment networks would be talking about this moment after hours for SURE. He embraced Morgan in a hug and squeezed her hand to let her know he was there for her.

She gave a great speech about the unveiling of the Parthenon years ago and spoke of The House of Spectra with great reverence. It was a very rousing display that got the crowd on their feet and excited.

He grabs Morgan's hand, which is weak, another effect of the Blue Moon and it began to make him worried for her and even more so for his sister. The Six in general. The last time the Six had faced Circe, they were nearly obliterated and Morgan was THIS close to being powerless.. DEAD.

Morgan: Cameron King, it is my pleaure to present to you, the deed of ownership to the Parthenon hotel and brand with all related holdings. Now we'll watch as you carry it into the future. Ladies and Gentleman, Parthenon's true father and your host for this evening's special event!!!

He was up. He squeezed Morgan's hand out of nervousness. Thankfully Cameron had the easier part out of them all. The crowd had been sufficiently warmed up and he literally just had to walk it home.

"Thank You, Everyone! Really! Thank You for Coming!"

He waved to people in the audience and smiled.

"Let's give another round of applause for Dominique, Sally, Morgan and Nicolas, shall we? Great job! This event most certainly could NOT have been without each and every one of you, I appreciate you! And also, though she is not on the stage, can we give a big hoot and holler to Blaze Fielding of Spectra Couture! Things have gone very smoothly tonight and it's in large part due to her! THANKS, Blaze!"

[clearing his throat for a minute]

"Tonight marks a transition for all of us. I'm reminded of coming to New York and meeting Morgan Victoria at Illustra. I had just purchased the group of Parthenon hotels and was looking for somebody to help me with the campaign. And when you wanted anything done in THIS city..you went to Morgan Victoria! Am I right?"

[pointing over to Morgan, winking]

"Months later, we stood in this very room at The Parthenon Grand Opening. And in the time of my professional absence, Ms. Victoria had endured the legacy of this hotel which is one of Old Hollywood Glamour with Modern and Cutting Edge Comforts."

[flashes of the various venues of the Parthenon began to flash onto the screen. From the clubs, to the restaurants, to the lounges. All elegant. All with a nod to Old Hollywood yet sophisticated and modern in their own way]

"I may have built it's bones, but Morgan Victoria helped shaped it's heart with the addition of Chic Boutiques, Tailors, and a Sophistication that was needed, but that the eyes of a man could not yet see. Thank You, once again Morgan...for opening my eyes and taking care of my "baby" for me all this time"

[the lights began to dim]

"I began to think of where The Parthenon could go from here. Already it stands as a Pinnacle of Class, Glamour and Sophistication. Where could it possibly go from here? And my answer...was UP"

[pictures of the NEW and IMPROVED Parthenon Hotel began to form on the Media Screens. The hotel seemed even LARGER and more expansive, and many would notice that the building was TALLER than before]

"That's right, friends. The Parthenon is EXPANDING once more. Bigger rooms, more exclusive suites, a CLUBHOUSE for our VIP Members...."

[graphic design shots of the interiors of all of these things began to flash on all the screens at once, giving people an idea of what they were about to experience]

"And the addition of a STATE of the ART Spa & Salon, poised high in the skies of Manhattan, which we are calling "Mandala". Mandala will have every luxury service imagineable from extensive and rare massage practices, to acupuncture and energy work. We will have private locker rooms, relaxation chambers, and of course a full service salon to further help our residents always LOOK and Feel their best. It will be the biggest and most luxurious Spa in the CITY."

[laughing]

"I can already see Miss Sally Spectra turning into a "Beauty Saloon" soon enough!"

The crowd laughs as he crinkles his nose and laughs with them, giving a small little wave to her, playing off the crowd's desire to see the two of them interact with one another.

"And if that is not enough! We are THIS close to breaking ground on our Paris Location, which you will remember was THE go to place for the elite to relax while maintaining residence in the HEART of Paris! The Zenith Group is proud to present Parthenon: Paris!"

[a quick teaser is shown on the media screens with images of french architecture, blueprints, designs, people getting together, drinking wine, laughter. Wetting the crowds appetite for all things related to the brand.]

"I want to thank EACH and EVERY one of you for coming here tonight. As a thank you for your support, loyalty and hopefully continued trust of The Zenith Group, we have given each and every one of you a "gift bag" of sorts filled with $500 worth of gifts from our retail partners within the Parthenon. And that's not all. Thanks to some very GENEROUS last minute donations to the event, we were able to secure you all a $3,000 Gift Card to the House of Spectra Boutique located RIGHT here in the Parthenon! Give it up for that!!!

The crowd bursts into an almost frenzy! Everyone loves free stuff and right now they were looking like they were an audience member for "Oprah's Favorite Things" They loved EVERY second of this event, and he was quite proud of ALL involved. He took a moment to find his sister's gaze and give her a wink and a nod..

"Thank You For being here, Ally Cat..."

"Again! Thank You For Your Support tonight! I am incredibly indebted to you all, and that support is not lost on me. In order to be able to continue to do what I love, I am dependent on your thoughts, reactions and dedication as well. I TRULY appreciate each and every person I see..."

[laughing]

"NOW, if you'll excuse me I have to go put an ice pack on my rear thanks to Sally Spectra's wandering hands! ENJOY THE FOOD, ENJOY THE COMPANY, THE GIFTS AND EACH OTHER! GOODNIGHT LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! THANK YOU FOR COMING!"

Cameron throws his hands up in the air as the crowd goes wild. The EVENT was a SWEEPING SUCCESS and being able to FEEL all that good energy that was being generated in the room was nearly intoxicating. They had done it. With an impending doom and Delilah about to pop at any moment. They had done it. He motioned for Morgan and the others to come over and bow with him, definitely not wanting to hog the spotlight, which he would admit was highly uncharacteristic of him.

 

[Seer]

And so...

<< The evening, THIS part of it at least, has been pulled off with tremendous success, as the now thunderous applause, cheers, whistling and other sustained postive audience feedback indicates.>>

<< At Cameron's call, Dominique emerges, as does Blaze, who was appreciative to Cameron for giving her a special mention, even though in her mind it wasnt necessary. She gladly joined her sister and the others on stage along with Dominique and now all 6 of them, representing 3 major companies across multiple industries, stand before the wowed and delighted crowd showing them what can be accomplished with time, GROWTH and change!>>

<< The DJ plays the instrumental version of Ray of Light as the audience continues to stand and cheer.>>

<< with Sally in the center, Cameron on her left with Dominique on his left; Nicolas on Sally's right with Morgan on her right, the group BOW together once, twice and each then give their own personal sign off "gesture" to the audience as they leave together, followed by the Spectra models. the media screen and floating monitors flash images of of all them and the motifs of zenith, the parthenon and spectra. >>

<< they walk, hand in hand and exit stage left....and once out of sight of the audience and the theatre, the crew and employees from all three companies shout and cheer with glee. Sally and Morgan hug and thank their models for a job well done, then they hug each other. Hugs all around among them, with Dominique even allowing and GIVING hugs to Sally, Nicolas and Cameron, while offering a more reserved hand shake and positive affirmation to Blaze and Morgan (as was expected from her, given their standing w/ each other)>>

<< They all take a moment to revel in what just happen, with Blaze quickly giving Sally, Morgan and Nicolas the news as alerts and info come in her eye pad that BUYERS over seas are alrady FLOODING Spectra Couture with orders and their total SO FAR is in the MILLIONS already! Talent scouts and agents are circling as close as they can get to where they THINK Dominique will be, trying to either sign her or buy out her label to merge it to theirs, they will fail before they even open their mouth to pitch and of course the Parthenon and this revelation of its being sold back to its original owner under his new company has set the financial markets abuzz.>>

<< It's all happening, starting here and now.>>

----------------------------------------

< In the V.I.P. Box seat of the Six, everyone was truly impressed and enjoyed the show. They enjoyed Dominique, laughed and clapped as Sally danced and goosed, approved Sally's endorsement of Cameron and Nicolas' "Hotness", cheered loudly for their fashion diva Morgan and watched history being made, again.>>

<< Each person in the VIP box watching had his/her own personal reactions to the show as it unfolded, realizing how far things had come or changed with the Six to make something like this even possible! The growth of individuals, the restoration and deepening of relationships, the change of circumstances around them and more.>>

<<But even as they all allowed themselves to revel in the immediate aftermath, as it came to a close, the lingering concerns and fears that remained about what ELSE was looming this night for THEM began to return for all except Delilah, who was- for the moment- "benefiting" from that often misapplied phrase..."ignorance is bliss." Her evening was about to take a sharp turn...for the worst.>>

<< But at THIS moment...>>

--------------------------------------------------

<< The members of the Six repaired to the Lounge of the Parthenon, which was closed off to the main audience this evening, they would enjoy the short "after party" in the Rainbow Room of the Parthenon, while Sally, Dominique, The Six and their allies only had EXCLUSIVE use of the Lounge.>>

<< Despite the heavy hearts and worried minds in the group, no one could NOT smile with Sally in the room as they had their brief private time togetherr.>>

<< Sally, who was well aware of the true nature of the Six, along with Cameron and Dominique (she was VERY well connected and accepted), didnt know ALL the details about what was wrong or what the Six had to deal with tonight, BUT she knew her Morgan was sick and had put up one HELL of a front tonight. She informed Morgan and Blaze that they were now officially OFF DUTY for the remainder of the week and that SHE would handle any possible loose ends here with "Cameron's people." before retiring to her posh diamond suite with a young, hard bodied, male "room attendant" she had already selected from the parthenon staff earlier >>

<< While the Six, Dominique and Sally relaxed and/or spoke amongsts themselves and partook in refreshments available...Ava, quietly slipped away , moving towards Dominique, who was keeping a comfortable distance from the majority of the Six without looking too awkward or obvious with it. She bent down and asked Dominique for a quiet word in private.>>

 

[Sally Spectra]

After party

Sally walks in, arms spread out as if she could hug them all, looking at Cameron, Dominique, Nicolas, Morgan and Blaze with a heart melting smile

"And THAT, boys and girls, is how it's DONE!"
Nodding as the spectra staff assisting them claps and cheers.

Their private little after party is in progress, Sally stands among members of the Six, having greeted Ava and Alison, both of whom she worked with when Illustra was operating.


"Ohhh-hoooo Delilah! You look radiant tonight, mama, simply glowing!"

Sally say's with her smooth, contralto voice as she gently rubs Delilah's belly.

"You also look like you're ready to pop! You did your tour of duty for tonight now Take the load off honey!"

Sharon obviously agrees with Sally as she helps/guides Delilah to sit down into the support enhanced chair she's brought


Snapping her fingers to an attendant

"What're you doing over there? Get this woman an ottoman to put her feet up on."


Looking at Michael.

"Mikey, darling...I appreciate your look. And believe me, if i EVER wanted to be arrested, I'd make SURE to do my BEST bad girl act right in front of you, but PLEASE, don't look so serious! I'm already hot enough as it is and you're liable to burn a hole through me!"

Nudging him as she winks.

"Now listen, I know Morgan is not feeling well. She's been a brave, WONDERFUL trooper these last few days and I am DEEPLY gratefaul for her pulling this event together to give Spectra another boost! But as of THIS MOMENT..."

She accents "Moment", especially the T with her tongue.

"You, my dear girl and your firebrand sister are OFF DUTY!"

Taking Blaze's ipad away from her

"That's it! DONE. FINITO! And don't come back to your office until next week! You need some time to yourself and you've MORE than earned it"


"Nicolas, you and Blaze take care of my Morgan, ya hear me? I want this girl feeling BETTER soon! She's too pretty and to look so sad!"

Gesturing for them to lean in close

"Whatever's going on...whatever you have to face, do it the way you always do it...TOGETHER. If there's one thing I know better than ANYTHING about this life is that you will get FARTHER with a group that you can truly call your family! Family isn't ALWAYS your blood either...BUT..."


Noticing that Dominique and Ava had slipped away

"IF you are fortunate to have it..."

Referring to Karen, Morgan, Blaze, Nicolas, Dominique, Alison and Cameron all of whom had blood bonds in this room, and of course the group in general


"Then take care of each other like you would your most PRECIOUS posession."

Moving back as she waves for her staff to move to the doors and another person to go find her personally selected parthenon male room attendant for the evening

"Kids, I'm outta here. I've got a little after party of MY OWN to make some waves in. Forget the high tide...I'm the TIDAL WAVE!"


Rolling her tongue around in her mouth and looking rather naughty as more than one person on the six laughed, Sharon and Blaze both whistled as Sally winked.

"I'll handle the last minute details and formalities between Spectra and Zenith. I'm still a hands on kinda gal ya know? But YOU kids, have a good time and whatever you do be safe , be good to each other!"

And with that, Sally blows a kiss and struts out, followed by her staff closing the doors behind her

 

[MorningStar]

Parthenon - VIP Box to Rainbow Room

Sharon was pestering her, even though CLEARLY Delilah wanted to be left alone.

Delilah, you're internal rhythms are fluctuating and your heart rate is up. You're body's reacting to the stimulus of pain, which my sonar detects is emanating from your lower back.

“Yeah, no shit.”

Come with me.

She wasn’t happy about it, but she did what Sharon told her. Sharon guided her – like a child, she might add – to a private part of the box.

Michael. Please see that no Staff enters this Box while I am peforming the sonic pulse stimulation on Delilah.

And that made Delilah pause.

“Wait – sonic pulse what? That doesn’t sound pleasant. Sharon-“

But then Sharon did SOMETHING with her powers, and Delilah felt a coolness fill her body as the pain left.

Are you ready to return to your seat?

“Wow.”

A little confused, she felt her back and stomach, surprised at the strange thing that had just happened.

“Um, yes. Thank you, Sharon.”

They returned to the others, and Sharon and Karen helped Delilah to sit between them.

Feeling better now?

“Yes, much. Thank you.”

Delilah smiled at her, a little sheepish about her earlier mood swing.

The show began, first with Dominique then Sally Spectra, who introduced Morgan, who looked like the glamourous DIVA she was. Delilah found her eyes tearing as she watched a montage of Morgan’s “greatest hits”. It was a triumph. But…

Delilah leaned forward. The guests in the crowd would not have noticed anything amiss, but Delilah knew Morgan better than most other than her family.

Her faced perplexed, she whispered, to no one in particular, “What is wrong with her?”

Morgan officially handed over the Parthenon to Cameron, which he charmingly accepted. It seemed Alison’s brother had done some growing up since the last time they had been together. But Morgan’s strange behavior was needling her at the back of her mind, and she was glad when they all retired to the lounge for the after party and were reunited with Morgan, Nicolas, Cameron and Blaze.

Sally Spectra entered the room like a hurricane.

"Ohhh-hoooo Delilah! You look radiant tonight, mama, simply glowing!"

Delilah smiled, genuinely this time. She couldn't help it - Sally's bubbly personality was infectious.

"Believe me, it's all the dress. It's lovely, Sally, thank you."

Sally rubbed Delilah stomach, which normally would have made her fly off the handle at the offender, but it was just impossible to be angry at the woman!

"You also look like you're ready to pop! You did your tour of duty for tonight now Take the load off honey! What're you doing over there? Get this woman an ottoman to put her feet up on."

Sharon had brought a chair for her, and Sally was already getting her people to wait on her - Delilah HATED needing to be helped like this, but she couldn't disagree. She was too tired and she welcomed the seat. She felt a little out of breath.

"Again, thank you."

And then like a whirlwhind, Sally left them to the party.

She looked around from her seat for Morgan, Sally had said she wasn't feeling well, and Delilah wanted to make sure she was okay. It seemed there was a bug going around - Karen had said earlier that she wasn't well either.

 

[Prophet]

The Parthenon Lounge

They had MORE than done it. They had knocked it straight out of the park. Home run for them ALL. After a deliciously powerful photo-op TRULY representing THE top tier of business and social status in NYC, The Six managed to retire to the Parthenon Lounge which had been reserved EXCLUSIVELY for The Six and Their Allies after the party. Cameron was more than relieved. He had been feeling a little bad about planning such an event in the midst of a very dark and looming situation. Granted he had no idea of what was happening when he planned the extravaganza but still, he felt bad about placing a workload on Morgan when she was very obviously weak.

In true Sally Spectra fashion, she came in like the Tazmanian Devil, covering all bases, throwing a few humorous jabs around, and then left, leaving people to be both enthralled and confused by her presence. Cameron let out an exaggerated sigh.

"I love that woman [Sally], but she is EXHAUSTING..."

The mood in the room was THICK. He could almost FEEL the sickness his female counterparts were experiencing. It was draining, and Cameron had to exert more than a little effort to fight off those feelings having an effect on him. Thankfully, he was able to keep it under control because there were things to figure out, plans to make, and with so many members of the team being incapacitated in some way, he had NO time to be anything less than flawless.

First he moved over to Delilah and embraced him in a hug that was warm and invited. He really had missed her and the somewhat sibling relationship they had developed upon his return. But Delilah had big things to worry about, and he knew how deeply private of a person she was, and with Sharon and Karen and Morgan and Blaze and Nicolas most likely ALL UP in her pregnancy business, he felt it was better to give her a little breathing room, and would call her periodically and mostly send her texts and funny pictures of things he had found online to keep her spirits up.

"It's so good to see, Delilah...and you..." [he said looking at her belly]

He leaned in a little closer.

"I'm not going to coo over you like anybody else because I know you hate it. Just letting you know I am Team "D" all the way. Pregnancy sucks, you want a drink and the last thing you need is to trot around feelin as big as a house next to supermodels. Still, you came to support, and I appreciate that. And you know they mean well, and...I think you are doing a great job of grinning and baring it for the time being...It will all be over soon..."

He kissed her on the cheek and smiled.

"Now if you'll excuse me, I have to say hello to my big sister over there..."

[walking over]

"Alison!"

He embraced her in a very warm hug, taking every moment of it in. They both knew what it was like to live without the other one, and Cameron would NEVER let that happen again. He was appreciative and took every aspect of his sister in during that hug.

"With everything that's going on, thank you Sister...for coming. You know it means the world to me..."

[leaning in]

"You look great...and I know you won't have your baby brother worrying about you...but I am. I'm worried about all of them..especially Delilah. I can FEEL that it centers around her...I may not be of much use against a Priestess of Hecate, but i'm HERE...and willing to go to the farthest reaches if it helps keep us all safe...and happy."

 

[Harbinger]

:: Watching this event unfold, Alison lost herself in the show and for a BRIEF period, forgot about what was coming for her...for THEM. It was a small miracle that should even do this.::

:: From the beginning with Dominique, Alison couldnt help but remember the days at Illustra. Though Dominique was technically a FOE, she was still a fellow magick user and had the irrevocable connection to the six due to being Nicolas' aunt, his only living blood relative. Alison respected that and she respected Dominique's talent as a songstress and show woman. Even though she was a member of Hellfire AND the Black Queen, she managed to maintain her own seperate life and identity apart from Hellfire, unlike Diana, The White Queen, who, even though she REIGNED over the club and all there in, seemed to have been CONSUMED by it many moons ago due to her lofty ambitions and power grab of Mystech.::

:: Sally Spectra! Nothing BAD could be said about this woman. Ever. and if anyone tried? EVERYONE, Including ALISON would shut them down if necessary. She had met Sally many moons ago shortly after she met Morgan at a party at Illlustra. She was a force of nature in a way FEW baseline humans could be. She was much like Sharon and Alycia before their changes. It was a safe bet, even with her precognition being limited as it was, that Sally was unlikely to become SuperWoman Spectra anytime soon. She was plenty powerful and memorable just as she was. Comfortable in her own skin and always helping others to feel the same way. It was obvious Sally loved Morgan and helped Morgan get her SPARK back, get the courage to get back in the fashion game and thus, giving Morgan a renewed sense of her life. For that, Alison and the rest of the Six owed Sally a debt of gratitude. Seeing her play with Cameron made her chuckle in spit of herself. He needed someone who could still make him blush and Sally was just the one to do it and she made them ALL look like models this evening. How many people have a friend who can do that?::


:: Morgan. At this point, Alison doesnt even have to think about it before standing up and clapping, CHEERING. THis was a truly special moment for Morgan. To be here in NYC, welcomed back by her peers, fans and a new generation, in the place just blocks from where it all began! This was a home coming for her and she deservd it. She'd worked with Morgan at Illustra and now she had Blaze Victory at her side, a perfect pairing. Alison, Ava, Delilah and Karen all felt genuine emotion for Morgan at this moment. ::

:: As Morgan officially handed the Parthenon back to Cameron, Alison nodded with satisfaction. As the audience clapped, she reached into her clutch, her hand trembling. She withdrew a small potion bottle filled with a dark blue glowing elixir. She had several more in there as well, two for herself, Morgan, Karen and even Dominique. These would act as "suppliments" and boost the witches energy reserves and alleviate the physical discomfort they were feeling. she quickly gulped her's down, like a shot.::

:: Cameron showed how much he'd grown. Alison was happy, relieved, SATISFIED. He'd found his way and found HIMSELF, finally fullfilling her vision and warning to him from two years ago. Now they could enjoy a sibling dynamic more like Morgan and Blaze or Haleigh and Ava. And it couldnt have happened at a better time in their lives.::

:: As the show and ceremony came to a close, the promise of new beginnings and bigger dreams and higher heights was promised and Alison clapped and cheered with genuine support. But none of this would matter if they did not survive TONIGHT.::

:: A short time later, in the closed off lounge, where the Six and their allies were gathered. Alison greeted Dominique and subtlely passed her the two potions.::

Dominique, take these. I have two for each witch among us. It's ALL that I have, but it's better than nothing.

Dominique: I thank you, Alison. Your kindness and consideration are much appreciated. Rest assured that I WILL be on hand to assist you and my nephew this evening and hopefully together, we will prevail against Circe.

:: The two women share a silent moment of concern and understanding. Dominique was genuinely grateful to receive this potion and Alison was happy to know that Nicolas had convinced her to assist them.::

:: She moves on to the rest of the group.::

Delilah...

::Alison says, shocking Delilah with how cold and hoarse her voice sounds. She smiles at her dear friend but quickly looks away, covering her face with her clutch as she coughs a bit::

You look beautiful! I never imagined that I'd see anyone among us pregnant! But as always, you are the brave trail blazer.

:: Alison faltered for a moment...she was almost AFRAID to take Delilah's hand for fear that it might generate a premonition. AND she was shaking...::

Tonight...

Just....

:: she turns away, removing her hand from Delilah's as she coughs again::

Just like old times at Illustra...eh?

I was glad to be here for it. I'm glad to see you too...

:: Alison looks pained as she turns away, once again covering her face with her clutch as she coughs more harshly::

UGH!

I'm sorry...the last thing you need is for me to be around you like this when you're pregnant. It's just that i hadnt seen you in so long...

I already feel like I've FAILED her...

:: She smiled at her old friend before turning away and leaving. Carefully sitting herself on one of the bar chairs, Cameron, who had sent a thought call to her earlier, comes up to her and pulls her up into his arms and tight hug. In her weary state, it's all she can do not to begin to CRY just because she feels so weak and needs to feel SAFE::

:: he expresses his gratitude for her support and then speaks to her via their sibling bond::

What a night this was for you, for Morgan and Sally, Nicolas...and for me too. Ava and I we used to work with Morgan in the days of Illustra, I was there when you formed that partnership with her. Beyond my being a precog...this moment ...seeing it tonight gave me such satisfaction, seeing the promise of possible time threads...and how you've come so far in successfully changing your path into a far better time thread than you once were on...you've made me proud of you. Sally said ...we should be good to each other. I think now...for the first time in our adult lives, you and I will finally be able to do just that for one another...

:: She abruptly pulls away from Cameron and coughs, terribly...bending over by the bar with one hand on the counter as she trembles::

I just wish ....all of this were happening under better circumstances. I've...never felt so SICK...I've never felt my power...my vitality being drained from me like THIS. I think i've failed tonight....I feel like i could ...just...

:: It's too late, Alison passes out right there in front of Cameron and the rest of them::

 

[Shadow Weaver]

To The Lounge

<< It had been so long since Karen could attend an event like this to support her daughter. Despite how uncomfortable Karen was, she wouldnt deny her daughter this moment for the world. Everything unfolded just as it should and all those involved did a remarkable job.>>

Dominique is really quite extraordinary, isn't she?

<< Karen whispered to Michael. He heard the wavering pitch in her tone.>>

<< the show continued and Karen smiled with amusement at Sally Spectra. Sally had no shame in flirting and chasing after younger men, many of whom didn't mind being caught. Michael may not have known it, but Sally, especially in the recent months, had given Karen an almost SUDDEN inspiration and epiphany about reveling in her own status as a cougar and enjoying Michael a bit more thoroughly. But he certainly had benefited from it Just ONE MORE thing somebody in the Six could thank Sally for>>

<< Sally was also responsible for starting Morgan on her path in the fashion world, so this moment was so fitting, seeing them together again in the same city...as others had remarked...only blocks away from where HER journey began. Karen was on her feet clapping and cheering her daughter on but even as she clapped, she felt like all the sound around her was fading out! THEN she felt her eyes rolling up to the back of her head....>>

<<...she almost PASSED OUT right there! But she managed to somehow regain herself and Michael gently but quickly sat her down and began to ran a small fan on her, handing her one of Alison's elixirs to drink.>>

Oh my stars, Michael...this can't happen to me! not here! not NOW!

<< she whispered to him with fear in her hushed voice. a few more moments passed...and Karen felt she needed some more air. CAMERON had taken the stage and it did Karen some good to see how far HE'D come. From the loud mouth, disrespectful, arrogant yount telepath that she had once labeled a "sexual predator" and "psychic vampire" the night the Inferno had begun, till now...proof positive that almost ANYONE could change and grow if they were truly willing to.>>

<< Unfortunately, Karen needed more relief and so, with whispered apologies to those they had to move in front of to get out of the seating row and Michael quickly advising Sharon in a CLOSE whisper to her ear where he and Karen were going and why, Michael takes Karen out of the VIP box and down to the closed off Lounge. He helps her to lay on a chaise lounge. The elixir is helping her...for now but she needed some space...some more air...>>

Oh michael...I havent felt like this ...not even when I was going into labor with Morgan did i feel like this...it's as though...something has LATCHED ON TO ME and is DRAINING ME of my very WILL to even stay conscious...

<< tears fall from her eyes...

Help me....I can't pass out...not now....not here....

Hecate....GRAMMIE...

<< she cries out with distress as Michael attempts to calm her. Moments pass. The ceremony ends. The others are coming soon.>>

<< The elixir holds...for now...soon Karen does find a sort of balance and sits up. She dabs her eyes with a hankerchief and composes herself as the others are soon to arrive. She insists on standing up to greet Morgan and the others.>>

<< Sally arrives, she and Karen warmly embrace>>

Oh Sally...

<< Karen says with some emotion. part of it due to the evening's events, the other part due to her ailing>>

You gave my daughter her start in this industry and you tought her well. She avoided many traps and pitfalls and she learned the benefits of moxie and being bold an industry that has too often become a trap for those who sought to thrive in it. As her mother, I thank you for that and everything else you've done...including helping her get BACK to this life once she moved out to LA.

You are a gem, Sally, never doubt that.

<< Sally is touched by Karen and they exhange sweet air kisses before Sally playfully jabs Michael. Karen dabs her eyes as she exhales/laughs.>>

He...he DOES make the idea of being a BAD GIRL seem worth while doesnt he?

<< Karen and Sally exchange knowing glances before Sally winks at her and moves on, but NOT without giving Michael a playful squeeze and whispering in his ear>>

Sally to Michael: "You gotcha self one terrific lady there, Mikey! You're keeping her young! After that scumbag asshole Christopher, I didnt think she'd ever be herself again...I'm glad to see that she is and THEN some and I know you have something to do with it. Keep it up, my good man...or you might get a spanking from yours truly!"

<< Sally offered her thanks and well wishes to everyone before taking her leave. the others mingled for a moment. Ava and Dominique were noticeably absent. Karen sat down again...>>

Well...I think it's time that we were....

<< Alison passes out in Cameron's arms.>>

Oh no...Alison!

<< Karen instinctively gets up with a start, only to find HERSELF nearly tumbling and being caught by Michael as her eyes once again roll up in the back of her head and her eye lids flutter...>>

....SO dizzy...too tired to even...

<< she was going to say "THINK"...but now she couldnt even do that, as Michael found that she too was unconscious. >>

 

[MorningStar]

Rainbow Room

When the group was finally reunited in the Rainbow Room, Alison took her hand. Delilah did a visible double take as she heard Alison’s rough, hoarse voice and saw how pale she was. And she had a terrible cough!

I'm sorry...the last thing you need is for me to be around you like this when you're pregnant. It's just that i hadnt seen you in so long...

“I’ve missed you too, hon…but maybe you need to sit for a moment?”

How strange that Alison seemed to be sickly too? Was someone targeting them? Could it be poison? A million scenarios ran through her mind. But before she could say anything, Cameron’s larger than life self was in the middle of them.

During Cameron’s time in LA, when Alison had chosen to stay on Aerie, Delilah had “adopted” him, thinking of him like her own younger brother. Cameron approached her and gave her a warm hug, which she happily returned.

She smiled brightly, giving his hand a squeeze as they separated.

"It's so good to see, Delilah...and you..." [he said looking at her belly]

“Well done, Cameron. I am so very proud of you.”

"…Still, you came to support, and I appreciate that. And you know they mean well, and...I think you are doing a great job of grinning and baring it for the time being...It will all be over soon..."

“You know I will always be there to support you, no matter what.”

Cameron kissed her cheek and made his way over to see Alison.

Delilah watched the siblings reconnect, smiling to herself. It was so good to see them together once again. Looking around at everyone there, they ALL seemed genuinely happy. Her gaze fell back on Cameron and Alison; Delilah was suddenly sad that she had no brothers or sisters of her own. She did think of Morgan and Alison as sisters, but they both had REAL siblings and that was a bond you couldn’t manufacture. But still, Delilah was always going to be there for them, and it was time she did just that. If Morgan and Alison were sick, they needed to quit partying and see to their health. Delilah started to get up – and that’s when she saw Alison collapse, followed shortly afterward by KAREN doing the same!

“Alison! Oh my god – Karen!”

She looked around for help.

“Nicolas! Help! Help them!”

She got up, rushing (as fast as she could) to their sides.

“Could it be poison?”

And then she remembered – Morgan.

“Morgan! Where’s Morgan? She wasn’t feeling well either!”

 

[Persephone]

It had been a spectacular show for both Morgan and Cameron, and the night had been a success for them. Ava was glad. She knew that with everything they had been through in the past they deserved this. So while the show came to a close, everyone was ushered to a private room for the after party. Pleasantries were exchanged, but Ava's mind was elsewhere. She needed to speak to Dominique.

Spotting the woman across the room, she noticed that she excused herself from a few acquaintances and slipped out the back door. Ava quickly began to follow, slipping out of the room full of people. As much as she wanted to socialize with her friends--especially since she hadn't seen them in what felt like forever--she had more pressing issues to deal with. The quicker she made contact with her mother and Hecate, the quicker she could come back and help her team with the impending doom that was looming over them. She needed answers and she needed them fast. Dominique was her best option.

Though she had lost sight of Dominique, she assumed the singer went back to her private suite. Approaching the door, Ava knocked; completely unaware of what was happening down at the party.

 

[Isis]

Dominique's executive suite

:: It had been a fantastic evening. Following her own instinct to allow herself to be apart of this event and effort had prooven to be the right thing to do for Dominique.::

:: After a truly unique and powerful photo op with Morgan, Cameron, Nicolas, Blaze and Sally Spectra and then a few minutes in the Lounge, where she personally greeted Sally with well placed air kisses and shared a few private words, the chanteuse remained just a few minutes longer, before quietly slipping out through the back.::

:: As earlier, while she may have a few connections to the Six, one of them now being Cameron and her business/personal interactions with him, she was not fond of the team as a whole and did not wish to be around what was clearly "family time"::

:: she seemingly did not notice Persephone, quietly following her. She avoided the main halls and most of the staff and any lingering photographers. Finally reaching the private floors of the parthenon, she went into her executive suite.::

:: A few moments had passed as she slipped out of her high heels into some some soft, plush, luxury slippers, turned on low lights and was brewing herself some tea to help her relax when a soft knock came at the door. She immediately went to answer it.::

Persephone??!

:: She said with a surprised, slightly curious tone. She look out into the hall to see if anyone else was about. They werent & Dominique was not one to engage in chatting, common or otherwise, out in the open..::

Do come in.

:: Inviting the goddess in, Dominique and Ava were not friends, BUT they had a respect for each other that was apart from their being on opposing teams due to their unique history.::

:: Closing the door and gesturing for Persephone to follow her through the large, sprawling, tastefully decorated executive suite into the den::

Please, sit down.

:: Dominique invites her to sit in one of the chairs as she moves to the couch on the other side of the table.::

Would you care for some tea? It's freshly brewed.

:: Dominique may have been technically the enemy of the Six, but she was not rude. Just as she dealt with Nicolas and Cameron in her own way, so too did she deal with any GUEST in her dwelling, including Persephone. The goddess politely declines and Dominique nods, seating herself across from her. Dominique can see a look of concern and determination on the goddess' face. She knew enough to know there was no need in wasting time with pleasantries, so she got right to what she suspected was the point of this visit- something to do with what her nephew had told her last night::

You seem to be troubled. What can I do for you, Persephone?

 

[Silver Swan]

The Rainbow Room

[ As far as outings with the Six go, this had been one of the best since her return to them as the Silver Swan. She had her own memories of the Parthenon. Her and Alycia, back when they were a senator and district attorney, respectively. Allies of the six, but still "...only human." A literal lifetime ago.]

[ Everything went smoothly, or smoothly as it could, considering the problems that She, along with Michael were trying to keep under control while watching out for the witches in their group as well as Delilah]

[ In the lounge, Sharon, who was also amused and taken by the curious but no less genuine Sally Spectra, whistled with approval at the bold woman's banter as she breezed in, mingled, relieved Morgan and Blaze of duty and told them to rest up and then wished them all well before taking her leave]

[ Sharon talked with Cass for a few moments, then Cameron, whom she was happy to see had bulked up. Now she wouldnt have to worry about breaking him in two... AS EASILY as it looked like it could be done before ]

[ Soon she was standing nearby Delilah, keeping watch over her, but her senses told her that Alison and Karen were in trouble. Just before Alison passed out, Sharon's head quickly turned in her direction. ]

Her heart beat and neural activity...she's utterly exhausted....

[Alison falls and while Sharon is certainly concerned, she does not wish to see an already urgent situation become worse]

Delilah!

[Sharon immediately calls as the younger mutant gets up far too quickly]

Sit down! You are in no condition to move in such a way and there's nothing you can do to help them. you could cause yourself harm if you...

[Delilah, who normally obeyed Sharon's direction during this pregnancy, ignored her now. Sharon understood...these two were especially near and dear to her and her concern was genuine. But the fact remained that there was nothing she could do, and if anything, SHE would end up in a similar state to them if not worse if shey was not careful]

[ Sharon gently but firmly takes hold of Delilah, who is no match for her in terms of strength, restraining her and sitting her carefully back down]

I take no pleasure in "interferring" this way, but I must ensure that YOU do not place yourself in a bad way either.

[Sharon was careful NOT to go into detail about what was happening to Karen and Alison. Indeed, Morgan had ordered them all NOT to discuss ANY of it with Delilah in an effort to keep her as calm as they could]

[Blaze immediately stepped up, backing Sharon's action with Delilah]

Blaze: "LISTEN to Sharon, Delilah. She's looking out for you, as we all do for each other. Trust her...trust US."

[ Blaze stands beside a now seated Delilah as she and Sharon watches Michael, Nicolas and Cameron quickly go to the aid of the fallen witches.]

Blaze: << answering Delilah's urgent question about Morgan>. "Morg's in the parlour room, she needed to freshen up..."<< the fire elemental would have known if Morgan had passed out via their sibling rapport, she hadnt...BUT in order to assauge Delilah's worry, Blaze looked down upon Delilah, locking her apple green eyes into Delilah's bright blue eyes.>> "I'll go check on her and get her now. Stay put, okay?" << she and Sharon look at each other, before Blaze slips out of sight.

Nicolas, Cameron

[Sharon calls to them]

The non-essential staff!

[ By now, the team worked well enough together that she need not explain. The humans needed to be telepathically "urged" out of the room, with no memory of what they'd seen or heard. It was a necessary precaution. Once one of the psychics handled that, Sharon herself went to secure the doors. Blaze, Morgan, Persephone and even Dominique would be able to get back in, but no one else. They didnt have to worry about Sally, even though she knew who/what they all were, as she was well on her way into the rest of HER evening.]

Everyone just calm down.

[Sharon commands]

Alison and Karen are far from dead

[Nicolas confirms this]

But we do need to get back to Melrose Place.

Michael, once we are there, you must use the charmed door way in your apartment to carry Karen from there directly to Minerva's mansion, the infirmary. Cameron, you take your sister. The staff at the mansion will know what to do once you're there.

As soon as Blaze and Morgan return, we must leave this place.

Nicolas, send a thought call to Ava once Blaze and Morgan arrive and tell herwhat's happened and where we're headed so she can meet us at Melrose Place.

[ Sharon returns to standing behind Delilah as she watches Michael and Cameron tend to the two fallen witches]

Athena and Artemis, grant us the strength, the speed, the STRATEGY to DEFEAT Circe tonight...we will need ALL the help we can get!

 

[Prophet]

Parthenon Hotel - Starlight Lounge

Cameron listened as his sister struggled through her words. He had underestimated the strain this Blue Moon was having on her, and just as he was about to see that she got some "care" in the form of some calming tea or perhaps some lavender oil, he watched all the life simply FALL from her body as she began to head towards the floor. He instinctively grabbed his sister.

"Alison!"

Just as Alison fell, so did Karen. He slowly carried her to the couch and laid her out. Delilah gasped and went to help and he heard Sharon start to stir, however he was not paying attention to ANYBODY but his sister at this moment. Instinctively, he mentally "pushed" the staff and people in the surrounding area away, all believing their shifts were over.

Sharon: Nicolas, Cameron...

"Taken care of Sharon..."

He pushed the hair away from his sister's face, and rubbed her cheek.

"Come on, Sis..."

Sharon: Everyone just calm down. Alison and Karen are far from dead.. But we do need to get back to Melrose Place. Michael, once we are there, you must use the charmed door in your apartment to carry Karen from there directly to Minerva's mansion, the infirmary. Cameron, you take your sister. The staff at the mansion will know what to do once you're there..

Cameron sent a mental distress signal to the mansion that would alert the Staff of their arrival and also put the security on high detail as they were aware of the dangers that might befall them.

"The staff has been notified. They are preparing as we speak.."

He looked at an obviously very distraught Delilah.

"Delilah, I promise they're fine...you need to remain calm. No matter how much that pisses you off. YOU NEED to remain calm for that baby."

He turned to Sharon...

"We need backup teleportation. Morgan might be down as well."

Cameron said a silent prayer to himself. He had never been much of a religious man, but at that moment whatever God or Goddess that Cameron King might believe in, he called upon them right now. For the sake of his sister. For the sake of ALL of them. Cameron squinted his eyes as he catapulted a bucket of ice and a wash cloth from the bar to his side. He quickly fashioned an ice pack and put it on his sister's head.

"This is not over by a long shot...I know it...Morgan is NOT okay..."

 

[Rampage]

Parthenon

Isis and Morgan had managed to slip away and Nicolas was enjoying the general feel of the room. He had spotted Alison speaking with Cam and had intended to go that way when he FELT her and Ma pass out at once. Nothing really dangerous at the moment, vitals solid, but pure exhaustion at this point. He immediately fell into his medical training.

The staff started leaving in a way that screamed Cameron. The security began to extend a perimeter OUTSIDE the room. Good job Mike.

Sharon: Everyone just calm down. Alison and Karen are far from dead.. But we do need to get back to Melrose Place. Michael, once we are there, you must use the charmed door in your apartment to carry Karen from there directly to Minerva's mansion, the infirmary. Cameron, you take your sister. The staff at the mansion will know what to do once you're there..

Morgan was not in this room, and quite possibly out though he doubted it by Blaze's reaction. Blaze was a great 'canary in the mine' for Morgan and he leaned on that for now as he walked closer to Alison and laid her gently on the floor. Cameron was quite obviously set to object at her being taken from him but Nicolas looked into his face as it and his form began to darken. His eyes began to glow with psionic power as he spoke.

Trust me Cam.

With that he grabs Cameron by the hand and shunts them through the astral plane...


...to INSIDE Mike's apartment at Melrose Place. Looking at him he said one word as he disappeared.

STAY.

...he reappeared in seconds with Alison and laid her in Cam's arms.

Be right back.

4 seconds later, he laid Karen on the couch.

3 seconds after leaving, he came back with Mike, who began to take charge.

3 more seconds, Sharon arrives with Nicolas.

...and now back with Delilah seated on his knee. He then places her in the chair by Karen.

Finally Cassandra is brought to Mike's large living room except Isis, Ava, Morgan and Blaze.

Mike, get them to the door. We will meet you in Aerie.

And with that, the young demigod was gone again...

...arriving back at the Parthenon outside Isis' private quarters. He decided this was best as the LAST thing he wanted to do was pop in on some naked Auntie. Yeah, she was fine but the thought made him gag a little to be honest. So he knocked...URGENTLY and HARD. He also reached out mentally.

The time has come Isis. I am here to take you to Aerie and make sure you will remain OK. Some of the sorceresses are down.

 

[MorningStar]

Parthnenon to Melrose Place

Those around her would notice Delilah’s luminescence was heightened. They were treating her like a child, and she was PISSED about it.

Sharon FORCIBLY kept her in her seat.

“For god’s sake, I am NOT going to break, Sharon, so just leave me be! Alison and Karen are in trouble!”

Blaze stepped in, promising to find Morgan, while Sharon announced to Delilah’s relief that Alison and Karen were not dead.

Delilah could only watch helplessly as Nicolas disappeared with each of them one at a time, presumably returning them to Melrose Place. Then it was her turn, and sure enough, she found herself expediently back in Mike’s apartment.

“Thank you, Nicolas.”

Delilah put a hand on her stomach. She wasn’t feeling so hot again.

Mike, get them to the door. We will meet you in Aerie.

“But Morgan – Blaze?”

But Nicolas was already gone.

Sharon began to help Delilah back to her own apartment.

“Shouldn’t we get them to a hospital? What’s going on?”

 

[Silver Swan]

Melrose Place - apartment 1

Sharon began to help Delilah back to her own apartment.

“Shouldn’t we get them to a hospital? What’s going on?”

Alison and Karen are suffering from exhaustion...a form that is unique to...witches. The both have been under great strain the last 2 days.

[ Sharon left it at that. KNOWING there was more to it...but keeping in mind that Morgan demanded they all not tell Delilah ANY of it.]

A mortal hospital will be useless. They will be cared for in the medical facilities of Minerva's aerie. Now come along.

[ Sharon helps Delilah to her apartment, not taking "no" for an answer]

You must settle yourself. They will not be left unattended.

[Inside of apartment 1, Sharon helps Delilah to her bedroom ]

We will return to check on you in a few moments...

[ Sharon looks upon Delilah. She takes no pleasure in deceiving her. After a few moments to make sure Delilah will be okay for the time being, Sharon leaves to return to apartment 3]

 

[Prophet]

NY to MP

Cameron was NOT keen on leaving his sister's side, but he trusted Nicolas. Within seconds he was transported via the astral plane to Mike's Apartment in Melrose Place. Funny, he was planning on a taking a private jet, having some champagne and a nice meal on his way to Los Angeles, but things dont always go as planned.

Within moments he reappeared with Alison passing him over to her as he took her in his arms. Quickly the apartment began to be filled with familiar faces, among them Sharon, Delilah, Cassandra, Mike and Karen. Mike scooped up Karen in his arms as Sharon and Delilah left for Delilah's apartment. None of that was right. Cameron did NOT agree with what they were doing, but he wasn't about to against the team on it. They had their reasons.

He looked at Mike and nodded.

"Lead the way, Big Guy.."

[turning to Cassandra]

"Keep up."

 

[Spellbinder]

From the Parthenon to Melrose Place

<< In the parlour room, Morgan splashed water on her face.>>

<< Everything had gone well...PERFECT even. But now, all she wanted to do was crawl into her bed and sleep...FOREVER. But sleep was not the answer to this problem, not by far.>>

<< she groans as she leans over the beautiful marble sink, finally looking up at herself in the mirror when she gasps in dismay. In the mirror, her reflection seems to be almost...ANIMATED. She's growing OLD with each passing second until finally, a form super-imposes over her reflection...a ghostly form that gains dominance in the reflection to reveal...>>

CIRCE!?

<< Circe's soft laugh can be heard in the air around Morgan as a lowere toned version of the mystic chimes associated with Morgan sound off. Morgan begins to buckle as her violet eyes widen, then she shuts them tightly as they start to roll and flutter...>>

No....can't...

<< She's going to pass out!>>

.....

<< Or IS SHE!? In her mind's eye...through the bond of mother and child, she feels her MOTHER'S light go "out". Not in death, but just in exhaustion and sleep.>>

Oh mom....

<< Morgan shudders. Alison may be gone too then. She might be the only one left...>>

Need...to get...

<< at that moment BLAZE enters the parlour room>>

Blaze: MORG!?

Blaze...please...help me!

<< Blaze quickens her pace over to Morgan, steadying her sister's trembling body with her own as she places Morgan's arm over her shoulders for support>>

Blaze: "Hurry, drink this. It's an elixir that will help you, at least for now. Long enough to get to Minerva's aerie, which is where we have to go...right now! Karen and Alison have passed out...the Blue Moon is almost here!"

Delilah...where is she...

Blaze: "Back at Melrose. Everyone is. They're going through the charmed doorway in Michael's apartment to get to Minerva's. Delilah doesnt know...but she's starting to suspect...if you want me to, I'll...."

No....

<< She says as she GULPS down the elixir>>

I will handle that. It is my responsiblity...but we must get back...I can still teleport. That is my mutant power, not effected by my magick...


<< Blaze sends a thought call to Nicolas, telling him that she's found Morgan and that they're getting back to MP and with that, stepping disc opens. They arrive in the MP courtyard. >>

Go....

Blaze: "What??"

Go! Go with the others. Get to Minerva's!

<< she points up to the sky. the black clouds drift along and a VERY large, low hanging MOON is...>>

Blaze: "The moon is CHANGING before our eyes!"

<< From white...to BLUE. Now more than a 1/4 of it has changed color already>>

Time is short...

<< Morgan says with a low, but steadier tone in her voice as she is now standing up right on her own without support.>>

The elixir has given me a temporary boost. More than enough time to see to Delilah and get us to Minerva's. But you go, right now! You know what Alison's vision was. If it isn't ALREADY under attack, it will be soon and we'll need everyone we have that's at full power there to protect and defend.

Blaze: "I don't want to leave you Morg...what if Circe..."

SHE can't come here. Not directly. But the longer WE waste time...the sooner I will begin to succumb again and I don't want to pass out while trying to teleport with Delilah. So go!

I'll be there as fast as I can...

<< Thunder rumbles in the night skies above>>

I promise!

Both sisters: Be safe....I love you

<< they hug and with a hesitantlook in her apple green eyes, Firebird turns and quickly runs to Michael's apartment, going inside and into his master bedroom, where she opens the closet door and steps through, immediately disppearing in the portal and reappearing in Minerva's Mansion with the others.>>

<< This leaves Morgan, standing alone in the entrance way leading into the dark court yard of Melrose Place. She looks up as her blonde hair begins to blow, narrowing her violet eyes as she looks at the changing moon.>>

<< The winds begin to pick up, howling a bit as thunder rumbles in the skies once more ...and the sound of soft laughter from Circe, haunts the air that is now blowing in a strong breeze. That laughter sends a CHILL through Morgan's body. Circe's touch...which surpassed only by BLACK'S as the most terrifying, PAINFUL and LIFE DRAINING touch Morgan had ever experienced! But she couldn't stop now. She had precious few minutes to get to Delilah...>>

<< In those uncertain moments, Morgan is distracted long enough to have missed something...SOMEONE skulking about MP from the laundry room, toward apartment one...>>

 

[Isis]

The Parthenon- Dominique's suite

:: As the elemental goddess began to speak to Dominique, Dominique shut her eyes tightly, rubbing her temples.::

headache...

My apologies, Persephone. I am experiencing some...discomfort. I'm sure that the root cause of that is part of why you are here?

:: at that moment::

The time has come Isis. I am here to take you to Aerie and make sure you will remain OK. Some of the sorceresses are down.

...arriving back at the Parthenon outside Isis' private quarters. He decided this was best as the LAST thing he wanted to do was pop in on some naked Auntie. Yeah, she was fine but the thought made him gag a little to be honest. So he knocked...URGENTLY and HARD. He also reached out mentally.

Sigh!

Please excuse me, Persephone.

:: Making her way back through her executive suite to the main double doors, she opens them to find::

Nicolas...

:: She opens the door wider, gesturing him to come inside::

Your teammate, Persephone, is here. She came to see me about something that seems to be troubling her and I suspect it has to do with what you're here for.

:: Dominique pauses again...shutting her eyes tightly::

Ugh....

:: Without thinking...She reaches out to her nephew for support to steady herself::

The headache...it's getting worse...and I am feeling a bit...dizzy.

:: Shaking her head as she regains herself::

I understand why you are here. But I suspect Persephone's reason for being here is urgent. She would not have come calling for any mere social reason.

:: she gestures for Nicolas to follow her. It is only the 2nd time he's been in her sprawling, luxury executive suite. To his SURPRISE...he finds a framed picture of HIM among other personal photos sitting on the mantle above her fireplace.::

:: She returns to the den, where a pensive looking Persephone can be found seated. Dominique returns to her seat on the couch, motioning for Nicolas to sit in the chair beside Persephone::

My apologies for the interruption, Persephone. But as you can see, given the circumstances all of us are facing, it was to be expected.

I assume that you can speak freely in front of my nephew, since you are teammates.

Now, what was it you were going to see?

::She waits for Persephone to respond.::

 

[Arsenal]

Hope can be a cruel thing.

Things were going well. Everyone looked beautiful. The show went incredibly well and while all of the sorceresses were out of sorts, it was going mostly like a bad flu going around. It started to give Mike a bit of hope about a few things.

MAYBE things would work out. MAYBE this old enemy can't get out of hell. MAYBE Karen actually put on his lingerie suggestion on under this dress and they could go home and get busy.

But his gut...oh yes, his gut. It knew better. And so when Karen dropped like a stone, Mike was there to catch her. He looked up to Nicolas and Sharon and the pair sprang into action.

Next thing he knew, he was in his apartment and preparing to door the others to Aerie. He picks up Karen in one arm (it was amazing how small she really was in comparison) and grabs Madelyn in the other.

He looked at Mike and nodded.

"Lead the way, Big Guy.."

[turning to Cassandra]

"Keep up."

Let's move everybody!!

Mike steps through the door and arrives in the infirmary at Aerie. Placing Karen on one table he turns and motions Cameron to place Alison on the other. The doctors were already doing scans and set to administer...SOMETHING. He stepped away to a monitor and started to assume control of the defenses. The computer echoed his input.

Defense perimeter Sigma. Automated defense grid set to 10. Form and DNA scans of approved members allowed. All unknown humanoid forms will be engaged with deadly force. New member "Cassandra" form and DNA being scanned and logged. Acknowledged. New parameters engaged.

Mike stood and removed his suit, revealing his battle suit underneath. He changed his Stacy Adams into Combat Boots from his locker in the room. From the same locker he grabbed two cloth packs and opened them for Cass.

From my stash. A pair of Argentinian Paratrooper knives and a Xiphos sword. Titanium stiffened and perfectly weighted with Osmium. Use 'em well.

Mike was ready for a fight. His gut was correct again and luckily he listened to it enough to prepare.