A debutante ball for Blaze Victory

[Black Widow]

Nicolas: Haleigh. Cass here is a psionic succubus. She NEEDS to feed on psionic energy to survive. Her targets either die or, more often, fall unconscious for several hours. I need a team to scrub any stories concerning unconscious patrons from Club Envy for last night before anything gets started. I would also like you to advise us on the nest way to keep her fed in a way that is discreet. Given how upset Cass was I apologize if I was overly...alarmist.

Haleigh stared at Nicolas for a good long minute, then glanced over at Cass, who looked she was standing on egg shells. So... nobody died? Haleigh breathed a sigh of relief. Nicolas looked apologetic.

"Okay..... no, it's fine, I just.... I read your text and I had inferno flashbacks."

They both started at her blankly. Right, neither of them knew what the hell she was talking about. Neither of them had experienced the inferno.

"I assumed all hell was breaking loose."

The look of recognition dawned simultaneously in their faces, a slightly comical sight. Haleigh held her hand up to her ear, activating her phone function.

"Audrey, send a containment team out to the Parthenon. We had some patrons of Club Envy who experienced unexplained blackouts... the kind we don't want explained. Thanks. I'll send you a photo of someone whose identity needs to be concealed from the blackout victims. If they remember her, they need to forget."

She turned back to Nicolas and Cass. In the past, she might have just blown Cass's secret right then and there.... but Haleigh had learned a lot about diplomacy from Zach. But Haleigh needed to have a serious talk with Cass....

"Cassandra..... you and I are about to enter no-Bullshit-land. If you are uncomfortable discussing ANYTHING about your past in front of Nicolas, then you need to say so now. He will respect your privacy, but I will not."

 

[Ruby]

VIP Clubhouse - Patio

"Cassandra..... you and I are about to enter no-Bullshit-land. If you are uncomfortable discussing ANYTHING about your past in front of Nicolas, then you need to say so now. He will respect your privacy, but I will not."

Wha--? My...past?

:: She looked from Haleigh to Nicolas. Her expression was one of confusion. ::

"N-no. I'm fine with him staying."

:: She had nothing to hide. At least, she didn't think she did. It's not as if she actively went and hid her past from the team. No, she assumed that nobody was interested -- since THEY didn't speak of their pasts -- so she didn't bring it up. Apparently...somebody was. She looked at Nicolas. ::

Do NOT leave me here alone!

"He can stay."

 

[Rampage]

Shit happened and Nicolas was tired of shit. He looked at the two before him. What secret was there that was SO big and amazing? Too many mysteries, he was ready for one of them to end.


Proceed Haleigh.

 

[Black Widow]

Cass: N-no. I'm fine with him staying.

Nicolas: proceed, Haleigh.

"Very well."

She glanced around the patio, then walked over to the only other couple out here with them. She grabbed them each by the elbow, hoisted them out of their chairs, and escorted them forcefully back inside.

"Patio's closed now, mmmkay? Bye."

She pushed them through the doors, adjusted her vest, and walked back over to Nic and Cass.

"Let's talk about the Nazis, Bryda. You used the hunt them down, didn't you?"

Game recognized game. And just like last night, Haleigh saw a glimmer of her own predatory instincts in the reflection of Cass's eyes. Haleigh knew the truth... Cass not only needed to kill, she LIKED to.

"Half the fun is in the hunt, is it not? The other half is in the kill. The way the kill makes you feel....alive."

 

[Ruby]

VIP Clubhouse - Patio

"Very well."

She glanced around the patio, then walked over to the only other couple out here them. She grabbed them each by the elbow, hosted them out of their chairs, and escorted them forcefully back inside.

"Patio's closed now, mmmkay? Bye."

She pushed them through the doors, adjusted her vest, and walked back over to Nic and Cass.

"Let's talk about the Nazis, Bryda. You used the hunt them down, didn't you?"

Game recognized game. And just like last night, Haleigh saw a glimmer of her own predatory instincts in the reflection of Cass's eyes. Haleigh knew the truth... Cass not only needed to kill, she LIKED to.

"Half the fun is in the hunt, is it not? The other half is in the kill. The way the kill makes you feel....alive."

:: Cass licked her lips. And there it was. She chuckled and turned to Nicolas. ::

"My BIRTH name is Bryda Jesko."

:: She pronounced Bryda Jesko like bree-dah and jes-co. She turned back to Haleigh. ::

"Yes. I DID hunt Nazis. They SLAUGHTERED my family."

:: She sighed again. ::

*quietly*: "And yes, I do like the thrill of the kill...but I know when to kill and when NOT to kill."

:: She was taken back to those months after she escaped from the German lab. ::

:: A teenage Bryda ran through the words, chasing a man of 29 years. He was breathing heavily, gasping for breath, pleading with the young girl to spare his life. He used to be a guard in the concentration camp, Dachau. He…was a NAZI. ::

Man: *speaking German; pleading*: “Please! I have a family! A boy and a little girl! They need me to take care of them. Their mother died in childbirth of my daughter. Spare me, ja?

:: Bryda chuckled as she came closer. The man tripped and fell down. He could see she was absolutely beautiful. Her DARK hair and BLUE eyes against her PORCELAIN skin made her look almost ethereal in the moonlight. ::

*speaking German*: “Nein, you monster! You must pay for your crimes. Families have been torn apart and entire families have been destroyed by the likes of YOU! You may THINK I’m leaving two children orphans but I’m SAVING them from YOUR delusional thinking that YOU are BETTER then other people!

:: She POUNCED on him and laid a hand on his shoulder. She LAUGHED as she began draining him, his screams piercing the night. ::

This is for you, Mama! And for you, Papa! And for you as well, Jacek!

:: She drained him, and drained him, and drained him…until he was nothing more than a pile of dust. Bryda felt POWERFUL. She ENJOYED this. She got up…..and SMILED. ::

:: She sighed again and took a long drink of her water. She eyed Nicolas. No doubt would he have questions. ::

“I haven’t been Bryda Jesko for a LONG time, Nicolas. Bryda Jesko lived a charmed life. Her father, Aleksander Jesko, was mayor of Warsaw, Poland. He had a wife, Natusia, as well as a son, Jacek, in addition to Bryda. She was a beautiful baby. Always laughing, always cooing. She looked around at everything, as if she was taking it all in. That curiosity never left her. As a toddler, she would go around the front lawn of the Presidential Palace looking at anything and everything. Her parents were best friends with the First Couple of that time. Her brother, Jacek, was her hero. He looked out for her, and she…”

:: Her voice shook with emotion. ::

“She ADORED her big brother. The people of Warsaw LOVED her because she was always happy. They loved all of the Jeskos. Aleksander and Natusia instilled into their children to always treat people as if they were their own family. Now Aleksander was pretty radical back then. He had some pretty bold ideas of what life should be like and how we should treat others. He was a great mayor. Natusia was a socialite by today’s standards and definition. They were well-liked. Jacek was the oldest and even though he was fifteen and Bryda was five, they shared a special and close bond.”

:: She took another breath. ::

“Bryda absolutely loved Hanukkah. It was her favourite time of year. She especially liked the lighting of the menorah, but she couldn’t light it because she was too young. Hanukkah of 1938 was a s pecial treat for Bryda because her hero, big brother Jacek, lifted her up so that SHE could light the candles. She really enjoyed THAT and everybody clapped for her. She was proud of herself and Jacek took her and began to dance with her all around the room. There was love and faith and laughter and many special moments then. MANY.”

“Then came September 1939. The Jeskos were woken up CRUELLY by these men dressed in dark clothing. Bryda was six and kept calling for her mama. She didn’t know what was going on, and so her papa carried her outside in the middle of the night, where it was freezing and the Jeskos, as well as some other prominent families of Warsaw, were herded into these cattle cars where there was NO room to sit. Only standing. Bryda clung tightly to her papa. She was scared. The cars began to move and soon enough, they arrived at their destination.”

:: She looked right at Nicolas and Haleigh. ::

“Auschwitz. They were then herded off of the cars and made a single file into this place that we had no idea of what it was or why we were there. We had to be looked at by a doctor…Josef Mengele. He looked at us all and he sent us all in, but I remember him staring at me, looking right AT ME. I cried and held Papa tighter and we both went into this room where were got this…”

:: She turned her left arm over and it was then they saw her number tattoo. ::

“But that wasn’t the worst of it. I SCREAMED and screamed in pain. But the worse was still to come as I had to leave Papa and Jacek to go with my mama. But then…I DIDN’T go with my mama. They took me from her arms and placed me in a wagon with the President and First Lady of Poland.”

:: When she looked up, her expression was fierce. ::

“I was in the Nazi secret laboratories for a DECADE. I was experimented on and tortured. I was abused in every way possible. I finally escaped because I came into my powers at age sixteen and I killed three guards who had come into my cell to rape me. And then…as I was running out of there, I killed everybody that stood in my path. When I got outside, the country was in ‘clean-up’ mode; the war was over. I went looking for someone who would’ve known about Auschwitz and I inquired about the Jeskos. I didn’t say who I was. But they told me they were all DEAD.”

:: She shrugged again. ::

“So I made it my mission to avenge their deaths and kill every single Nazi and their supporter I came across. But that wasn’t the end. No, I changed my name to the Western-sounding Cassandra Johnson in order to evade capture. It seems that the mystery of Bryda Jesko is unsolved. See, I look like I’m in my mid-twenties so I had to change my name in order to evade suspicion and questions. To this day nobody knows what happened to Bryda Jesko. NOBODY. She was never confirmed dead and she was never found. The historians tracked her to a German lab deep in the depths of Germany but after that…nothing. She vanished without a trace.”

:: She looked at Haleigh with a small smile. ::

“I killed Nazis AND their supporters and I did it with a song in my heart. I’m a predator and I DO love the thrill of the kill.”

 

[Rampage]

Now Nicolas knew Cass' original name. He knew her history more intimately. And he realized that they had picked up another predator in their midst.

:: She looked at Haleigh with a small smile. ::

“I killed Nazis AND their supporters and I did it with a song in my heart. I’m a predator and I DO love the thrill of the kill.”

Honestly, Nicolas expected more. He looked at Cass before he finally cracked a small smile.

This is not unexpected. Indeed, I asked you about this last night when I offered you some of my own energy Cass.

Nicolas looked at the two of them.

Think about eating...drinking. People derive pleasure from the consumption of good food and drink. And why? Because your body NEEDS food and so it creates a mental incentive to feed. This is no different, except that she has outgrown her original food source in Nazis. She has already adapted to being a non-lethal feeder as needed. But to get back to the question at hand, what do you suggest in terms of a longer-term solution? And Cass, what is your necessary amount of feeding you need to do? Lethal and nonlethal.

Nicolas had been through too much to freak out at this point. He wante dto solve this and move on.

 

[Sally Spectra]

Spectra Office

“I’d like to take that advice to heart with a few people at the moment.”

Delilah smiled warmly.

“Hi Sally. I hope I’m not interrupting you?”

Tuh! Not at all! What can I do for you?

Well I just wanted to thank you again for all the beautiful things. You’re a life saver, and I do appreciate it.

::Sally smiled, looking upon Delilah with a sincere friendly expression::

Aww you're very welcome, my dear! Any chance I get to play "fairy godmother"!

:: winking at the young mutant::

SO! What're you plans while you're here? From the look of you, I gather you're thinking about something along the lines of a...

:: leaning in a bit closer::

Relocation?

Change is good for the soul! You're young enough that you can have a FEW changes before you feel any fatigue!


:: speaking of changes and recent developments, Andrew shows up::

As promised, Andrew had been on time to Spectra. Dressed in a clean suit he was soon rushing anywhere and everywhere. He had thought Fridays were meant to be slow – but not this one. AND he had gotten a message that Sally wanted to see him. After last night, that couldn’t be good. She might have decided to sack him once she sobered up, especially after the pictures. God, the pictures! He covered his face with a hand just thinking about it. Luckily there wasn’t much chance his mum would see it. But you never knew today, did you?

He finished up his deliveries in the hotel and headed back downstairs. He waved to Cyndy with a Y! on his way through the door, not stopping as he breezed through the boutique and into Sally’s office.

He stopped dead.

Delilah AND Sally. Together. Ah hell.

After a second, he recovered. He held up his hands and grinned.

“My two favorite ladies together at last!”

He feigned a “calm down” motion with his hands as he looked away briefly.

“Now, now – no need to fight. There is plenty of me to go around.”

:: Sally laughed and scoffed, waving her hand dismissively::

I don't fight over men, my dear boy. Men fall all over themselves to get to ME. THAT is the way a DIVA handles it.

Besides, you know I only keep you around for my personal amusement, right?

:: Smirking devilishly as she joked, but she and Andrew BOTH can recall the occassions where she happily GOOSED him on her previous visits to this newest Spectra location after hiring him. In that, he had something in common with Cameron! But it was all in fun.::

Smiling unabashedly, he strode to the desk and, with a wink at Delilah, sat in a chair facing Sally, pulling his left ankle up to cross over his right knee. He looked from one woman to the other, his right foot rapidly tapping on the floor.

“So, boss, I got a message you needed to see me?”

::Sally's face melted into a dead serious expression as she stared at Andrew::

Yes.

You're fired.

:: Nothing but silence for a few moments until Sally herself smiles and laughs loudly::

Oh come ON now, you easily set yourself up for THAT.

:: shaking her head as she notes the BRIEF look of dismay on Andrew's face, along with Delilah's look of astonishment:

Oh. Are you worried about these?

:: Gesturing to the copies of TMZ on her desk::

You shouldn't be.
:: picking up the one that had the splash page featuring herself, Nicolas and Andrew::

When you've got it? F-LAUNT IT! You keep this up and you might find yourself joining my stable of male models! Just like my chocolate beefcake here!

:: running one of her red fingernails over the image of Nicolas King before putting it back down again::

Now, I DID want to see you. First, I want to make sure that we're CLEAR on last night and that in the future, if you want any special access privileges in this hotel, you come to me first.

AND I to make sure that the special deliveries for Blaze Victory and Karen Victoria have been delivered to their penthouses?

:: At that moment, the email from Nicolas regarding Vivica Lennox and her art gallery had popped up on Sally's screen. She was scanning it even as she was talking to Andrew, who was stealing glances of Delilah. It was rather cute to Sally, watching him watching her.::

 

[Orion]

Cafe Dolce

They shared a hug and took their seats, and Zach declined to order anything when the waitress came over. He'd had a big breakfast AND his coffee already.

Vivica: I know this isn't protocol...but goddammit...it's really good to see you!

"Likewise, Viv. You look amazing. You've got a glow about you."

Vivica: You know..I don't think I will EVER get used to those fancy watches. Besides, it HARDLY goes with this outfit.

"Yeah well it gets me around the city-- and across the country a lot faster. I basically wrote Sebastian a love letter when he finished development of the transporter. In beta testing we had a choice of the portable remote control, and working it into a watch was just the best option. I could talk to him about putting yours into something more feminine for you."

Vivica: Oh Zach! You look so good...that California sun has definitely done you well!

"Thanks. I like, work out and stuff."

He joked in a surfer accent that was an octave lower than normal.

Vivica: I definitely missed you last night, Zach! It was the first time I had been faced with...The Six since...well...you know...Greece.

"Yeah, I wanted to come but I ended up stuck at an emergency meeting."

She got that look.... that thousand yard stare of a flashback. Zach looked around the charming little cafe politely, not wanting to interrupt her personal reflection.

Vivica: You know...all ANYBODY is talking about is Black Widow and The Avengers Initiative. I would have reached out sooner, but you're a busy man...and I respect that you can't drop everything for every damsel in distress you've saved...

"Hey..... I told you to call me any time you need, and I meant it."

Vivica: This is definitely...for the most part a social call...don't worry...Davenport hasn't run me into the ground as of yet...Still...there WAS something to be said for being one of “Jack's Girls...”

"Amelia is a tough lady, but she thinks highly of you. She pushes you because she believes in you, Viv. Not as fun to work with as Jack, but back when I was lieutenant, she was one of the best field operatives in her division."

Vivica: Anyway...I know it's been some time...but I felt like I owed you a meeting...so you can see what your good deeds have done...You may be an empath...but I know you don't like mushy stuff...it's just that...that night..when I woke up in a Clandestine facility in the UK and you were there? I don't think I ever expressed my gratitude enough...and I wanted to meet with you and make sure you were aware...just how much you changed things for me...

"It was the least we could do..... Haleigh felt responsible for allowing what happened between you and Ava, but she was so twisted up about Cameron....l

Vivica: I don't know how involved if at ALL you were with finding Elizabeth for me...but it allowed me to come full circle. I'm now working exclusively in the field...no more recon or surveillance for me. You guys didn't just fix me...you made me better...you made me PERFECT for this line of work, and really...working as an Agent for Clandestine has been the best decision I ever made.

"Honestly Viv, Dr. Crichton is the guy you should be thanking. He handled your surgery, your recovery, AND he's the one who found Miss York. I didn't do half as much as he did. And Haleigh is the one who paid for it all."

Vivica: Haleigh...has been great...per our agreement to keep my status as an agent a secret until I'm ready to come out with it. She lightly regarded me at Blaze's party and nobody was the wiser. I am really thankful for that...and I'm really thankful for you too...You know...this may be overstepping my bounds and forgive me if I do...you know Cameron is my oldest friend...that I've known him since I was a child myself...but I have to say, there are but a few people I think are deserving of a woman such as Haleigh...and I think...well I just want to say that I think the right guy got the girl...

"Wow, thank you..... could you mention it to Haleigh? Because I'd really like to propose again but I haven't exactly gotten the vibe that she'd consider it after everything that's happened."

He replied with an awkward laugh. He didn't want to say he still had the original engagement ring in his sock drawer. She asked what else he'd been up to, and he shrugged.

"Not much really.... just working. I really enjoy diplomacy....it's like a calling.... I guess it runs in the family. I find it even more satisfying than espionage."

 

[Black Widow]

Parthenon: VIP clubhouse

Cass: Yes. I DID hunt Nazis. They SLAUGHTERED my family.

"AND?"

She wouldn't be satisfied without confirmation.

Cass: (quietly): And yes, I do like the thrill of the kill.....but I know when to kill and when not to kill.

Haleigh smirked knowingly. Cass launched into a full-on history lesson, and you had to give the girl credit for coming completely clean. Haleigh wore a steely expression but refused to blink. She knew first hand how it felt when you didn't get to decide what happened to your own body. She knew first hand what it was like to hang on someone else's mercy, or lack thereof. And she also knew the appetite of vengeance.

Cass: I killed Nazis AND their supporters and I did it with a song in my heart. I’m a predator and I DO love the thrill of the kill.

Haleigh smiled softly. She almost looked.... FOND of the girl.... in as much as you could expect from Haleigh. Nicolas jumped in, working overtime to justify Cass's need to feed. Haleigh tossed him a sarcastic glance that said 'you're cute.'

"Just a hypothesis, but I'm thinking an actual kill would last longer....."

She didn't mention the undercurrent..... something that she understood. The thrill of the kill..... and killing without remorse. Haleigh herself had killed many times.... in her line of work, it was often kill or be killed. But there was something few people knew about her.... even amongst the six. There had been times that Haleigh had killed even when it wasn't necessary. And though she was a master at rationalizing and justification... There had been times Haleigh had killed simply because she COULD... or because she'd wanted to. Was she a sociopath? Probably. She'd stopped judging herself about it and just accepted it.

"The good news is that you live in a big city. A large population offers not JUST a plentiful target pool, but also a better chance of hiding your patterns. Don't ever feed on someone you know, and for fuck's sake, stop shitting where we eat. I can easily find you some suitable targets, bad guys that won't be missed and deserve what they're getting. What happens to the body when you kill your victim?"

 

[MorningStar]

Spectra Boutique, The Parthenon

SO! What're you plans while you're here? From the look of you, I gather you're thinking about something along the lines of a...Relocation? Change is good for the soul! You're young enough that you can have a FEW changes before you feel any fatigue!

Delilah sighed.

“Yeah, well, I just needed to get away from LA…make a fresh start…back someplace I can do some GOOD.”

She stared off into the distance for a second, but her thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of a tornado.

“My two favorite ladies together at last!”

Delilah rolled her eyes.

“You again?”

“Now, now – no need to fight. There is plenty of me to go around.”

She crossed her arms and looked down at him where he had made himself at home sitting across from Sally.

“Your ego ALONE is enough for ten women.”

She couldn't believe that Sally put up with this impertinence from an employee.

 

[Titan]

Spectra Boutique, The Parthenon

I don't fight over men, my dear boy. Men fall all over themselves to get to ME. THAT is the way a DIVA handles it. Besides, you know I only keep you around for my personal amusement, right?

He made a point with his index finger.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way, Sally.”

You're fired.

He froze. Well, he had enough to get himself a plane ticket back to Belfast. It had been fun while it lasted. He glanced at Delilah. I wonder if she would put me up for a few days…

He leaned forward.

“To be honest, I was expecting this-“

Oh come ON now, you easily set yourself up for THAT. Oh. Are you worried about these? You shouldn't be. When you've got it? F-LAUNT IT! You keep this up and you might find yourself joining my stable of male models! Just like my chocolate beefcake here!

He laughed.

“You got me, Miss Sally.”

He put on a mock wistful face.

“But alas I don’t think the female population could handle having pictures of me that readily available. They would just stare at them all day long. How would they do anything else? It would be a worldwide problem.”

He turned his head to smile broadly up at Delilah, who wasn’t looking amused.

“Don’t worry, my love, you’ll always be first in my heart.”

He brought his two hands together and made a heart shape with his thumbs and forefingers. But he turned back to Sally as she got down to business, focusing on what she was saying to him.

Now, I DID want to see you. First, I want to make sure that we're CLEAR on last night and that in the future, if you want any special access privileges in this hotel, you come to me first.

He glanced sideways at Delilah. For some reason he couldn’t quite pinpoint, he didn’t really want Delilah knowing what he had done. He nodded.

AND I to make sure that the special deliveries for Blaze Victory and Karen Victoria have been delivered to their penthouses?

“Of course, Miss Sally – I took care of those first thing.”

 

[Ruby]

VIP Clubhouse - Patio

:: Perhaps Cass should’ve been PISSED to hear that somebody had not only looked into her past, but that they discovered her true IDENTITY. But it was as if Cass had been WAITING for a chance to tell her story…at least, part of it. Of course, Sharon and Karen both knew it, but this was the first time she had given a really in-depth explanation about her FORMER life. Nicolas jumped in to try and justify Cass’ need to ‘feed’. ::

This is not unexpected. Indeed, I asked you about this last night when I offered you some of my own energy Cass.

Think about eating...drinking. People derive pleasure from the consumption of good food and drink. And why? Because your body NEEDS food and so it creates a mental incentive to feed. This is no different, except that she has outgrown her original food source in Nazis. She has already adapted to being a non-lethal feeder as needed. But to get back to the question at hand, what do you suggest in terms of a longer-term solution? And Cass, what is your necessary amount of feeding you need to do? Lethal and nonlethal.

:: Cass gave Nicolas a soft smile. ::

“That’s not what she’s asking…and that’s not what I’m saying.”

:: She sighed AGAIN. ::

Dammit…do I really need to spell it out?!

“Nicolas, I HAVE killed…and not because I had to. I killed because I WANTED to, and because I COULD. Yes, that hasn’t happened in a LONG time but the blood lust, or, in my case, ENERGY lust, is still there. To answer your question, I could get by feeding and rendering people unconscious. But that only serves to stave off the hunger. Think of it as having a ‘snack’. If I could get away with feeding on an entire group of people, thus rendering them unconscious, that would be the equivalent of a full meal. That’s the nonlethal route. Lethal…well, that would be like a full meal for me.”

:: She took a deep breath. ::

“Think about how much energy is in just ONE person. Mutants, meta humans, even super humans, are deal because of the tremendous amount of energy they give off. YOU, as well as Cameron, are considered ‘forbidden fruit’ by me. Being psionics, you BOTH are like thick, juicy steaks. Psionics such as myself are the MOST ideal; the cream of the crop. Ideally, though, draining somebody until they’re ‘dead’ is the best.”

"Just a hypothesis, but I'm thinking an actual kill would last longer....."

:: Cass grinned. Haleigh KNEW what Cass was about. Haleigh mentioned not feeding on somebody you know and ‘shitting where they eat’. ::

"The good news is that you live in a big city. A large population offers not JUST a plentiful target pool, but also a better chance of hiding your patterns. Don't ever feed on someone you know, and for fuck's sake, stop shitting where we eat. I can easily find you some suitable targets, bad guys that won't be missed and deserve what they're getting. What happens to the body when you kill your victim?"

“Well, I fed on my ex boyfriend once, but that was mainly a survival instinct. WHAT! He was attacking me! As for ‘shitting where we eat’, it was Casanova’s entire fault here…”

:: She jerked her thumb in Nicolas’ direction. ::

“See, Nicolas, I have used my succubus side in order to feed for SO long that not only do I ‘charm’ and ‘enthrall’ others to get my way or to make sure nobody sees me, but I also get worked up when I’m in the presence of energy…energy that is FORBIDDEN to me.” *embarrassed*: “It, uhm, gets me all hot and bothered.”

:: She answered Haleigh's last question. ::

"I drain them until there's nothing left. LITERALLY. They are nothing but a pile of dust."

:: She shook her head. It was time for questions of her OWN. ::

*curious*: "Okay, Haleigh, I just want to know ONE thing: how the FUCK did you find Bryda Jesko when she pretty much disappeared off the face of the earth?"

:: She wanted to know in case she ever had to hide again. ::

 

[Recall]

Dolce Cafe - Chelsea

Zach: "Amelia is a tough lady, but she thinks highly of you. She pushes you because she believes in you, Viv. Not as fun to work with as Jack, but back when I was lieutenant, she was one of the best field operatives in her division."

"Oh I respect her, she just DEFINITELY lives up to her reputation!"

Zach: "Honestly Viv, Dr. Crichton is the guy you should be thanking. He handled your surgery, your recovery, AND he's the one who found Miss York. I didn't do half as much as he did. And Haleigh is the one who paid for it all."

Vivica blushed for a second and laughed as she took a sip of her drink and began mindlessly picking at the pastry she had ordered. She wasn't even really that hungry.

"Oh, I've thanked him PLENTY. So much so that I'm pretty sure that if I called his office right now he would most CERTAINLY let it go to voicemail. I'm just trying to cover my bases. Haleigh I just plain HAVEN'T seen since last night. After all that....mess...I was in Europe and she was resuming duty with The Six...Cameron happened to catch me on a short trip to the city last year when he "came back" from the dead...other than that...I've had no interaction with The Six..."

She watched as she told him that she felt that he was deserving of Haleigh. It was interesting. With the memory that Vivica had, reading facial cues and body language were nearly instinctual. Everytime she had been around a person, her memory would absorb the way they spoke, their tone, their posture, their facial expression, and everytime she saw a person she ran through each of these interactions in her head, comparing them to the last. It allowed her to detect when those around her were lying, uncomfortable or...in Zach's case, a little embarrassed.

Zach: "Wow, thank you..... could you mention it to Haleigh? Because I'd really like to propose again but I haven't exactly gotten the vibe that she'd consider it after everything that's happened."

Vivica cocked an eyebrow for a moment.

"Well...as lovely as that sounds, Zach...My advice to you would be to bide your time. You two are FINALLY in a good place for the first time in a long time, right? Why not ride that wave for awhile until you know for SURE that her answer would be yes...You'd hate for another SURPRISE to come barreling into you at a church venue..."

She smirked as she inquired about what had been going on with him.

Zach: "Not much really.... just working. I really enjoy diplomacy....it's like a calling.... I guess it runs in the family. I find it even more satisfying than espionage."

"Like father, like son I guess...it's nice to find something you enjoy doing isn't it? I mean my gallery has FAR exceeded all my expectations. I just wanted to be a girl who sold some paintings in between serving her country and then BOOM...it just kind of came overnight...I'm grateful for sure..I'm having my debut as an artist next month...The first time my own art will be viewed publically. I've invited the members of The Six who seemed interested...I'd love for you...AND Haleigh to come..."

Vivica thought for a moment while looking at Zach. She wasn't lost in thought but something DID bother her. Something she hadn't been anticipating. Something about her felt bad...for ALYCIA. For Zach...With Cameron doing so well...and Haleigh doing so well...she figured it would only be a matter of time before those two were back in cahoots. Vivica was worried that once Haleigh and Cameron resolved some of their issues...inevitably they would give into desire. Where would that leave people like Zach? And for that matter...people like Alycia. Still, this was all circumstancial. Perhaps Cameron and Haleigh really HAD changed...maybe they would be able to simply be friends and let live. Vivica wasn't so sure...she decided that she would do what she could in order to see these two people (Zach and Alycia) didn't get caught in the crossfire of Cameron and Haleigh. The fact that she had just thought about sticking up for Alycia's feelings made her want to vomit...but it could have been ANYONE really..She didn't want to see ANYBODY get hurt like that...or at least that's what she told herself.

"I'll make sure you get all the information..."

She looked across the street at her gallery and then back at Zach. All of this around her, she had created for herself...with the help of people like Zach...but this was her identity outside of The Six...and outside of Cameron. And being here now with Zach, it relaxed her and made her feel more comfortable and sure of her choices. She really had come full circle, and the last pieces of the puzzle were beginning to be solved. She really just had ONE bone to pick, but Vivica knew that THAT day would come and when it did, Alycia and Vivica WOULD settle the score.

"Well...I hope I haven't kept you from anything important. I'll let you get back to work. I just wanted to check in with you and say hi. I have a feeling The Six is going to be in New York for an extended period of time, which I assume means you will be around more often...Don't be a stranger, Zacky..."

She stood from the table, grabbing her coffee which was now in a to go cup as Zach rose as well. She embraced him in a warm hug.

"And don't worry about Delilah...from what i've heard, you aren't the only person on her shit list. Just be thankful you aren't Morgan or Alison..."

Vivica squeezed him as he walked her over to the door.

"Bye Zach....and again...thanks for everything...we'll be in touch..."

She walked across the street cautiously as she headed back to her gallery. She had a little more time to put in at the gallery and she had been called into Clandestine for a short mission. Vivica hadn't made up her mind if she was going to share the conversation she had heard Nicolas and Dominique having at the clubhouse with the Security detail who watched over the allies of The Six just yet. She would wait to see how things shaped up. For now, she opened the glass double doors of her gallery, stepped inside, brought her cup to her lips...and drank it ALL in.

 

[Sally Spectra]

From the Parthenon to Zenith

:: Sally eyed the interaction between Delilah and Andrew. Andrew was like a naughty but cute puppy. That's one of the things she found endearing about him. Delilah was clearly going through something, though she remained gracious with Sally.::

Now, now children. There are other, FAR more fun ways to work out MUTUAL ATTRACTION!

:: Sally said with boldness as she smiled knowingly at the two. Her phone chimed as she received a text from Blaze that she was on her way down to the main floor of the Parthenon and that the limo that would carry them to Zenith was already there ::

:: closing up her computer, she stands up, grabbing her wrap and clutch::

Now then, I have a limo waiting for me down on the ground floor and Blaze is already down there, So I must be off!

:: Andrew stands as Sally does::

Andrew, take the rest of the day off, with my compliments. All our urgent deliveries have been covered. You have yourself a good rest of the day & take the lady some place nice for lunch. Show her you're more than just a pretty face.

:: laughing softly as she cups Andrew's chin and shakes his face a bit::

And Delilah, darling! If you're ever interested in moonlighting as a print model, I've got a couple things I could definitely use you for!

:: Sally said with a nod and a wink as she took in the sight of Delilah in one of her designs, looking sleek and hot! It was a reminder to Delilah of her days at Illustra, when she had done that very thing, filling in as a print model for Morgan in some spreads in various publications and fashion catalogues::

Now play nice kiddies and I'll see you later!

:: And with that, Sally Spectra struts out of her office and soon exits Spectra Boutique, making her way down to the main floor of the Parthenon and out the revolving doors where Blaze is already standing.::

Alright, let's get this show on the road!

:: the driver of the limo immediately opens the door, helping both women inside and then shutting it. Soon he's in the driver's seat and the limo is pulling out of the circular drive of the hotel and now heading for Zenith!::

What could possibly be so urgent that Cameron wanted to see us both?

Blaze: "Your guess is as good as mine, Sally. But I am definitely intrigued."


Well...The House of Spectra and Zenith already have several key partnerships. But I did receive a rather interesting email from Nicolas about Vivica Lennox, that little girl who was at the party last night? She introduced herself to me. Pretty little thing...although she could stand to eat a little more...

:: Sally said thoughtfully as Blaze giggled a bit, having seen ALL of Vivica's figure up close and personal::

I'll want to speak to Cameron about her.

Blaze: "Yes, I wanted to talk to you about her too!"


:: Sally holds up her hand::

Now, NOW!

:: A moment of silence::

There will be plenty of time for THAT.

Right NOW? It's time for champagne!

:: And with that, Blaze happily retrieves a fresh chilled bottle from mini-bar and pours them both a flute::

That's my girl! You know I don't like to conduct business when I'm on EMPTY!

:: Blaze and Sally laugh as they clink their glasses and enjoy their drink, while making their way to Zenith::

 

[Seer]

Arriving at Zenith

<< The limo arrives at Zenith and the driver helps Sally and Blaze out of it.>>

<< Inside, the two women walk, their high heeled steps unconsciously synch with each other as they make their way to the elevator.>>

<< Up the elevator the go, emerging from it as it dings, arriving on the floor of Cameron's Executive Suite.>>

<< They walk with a purpose, arriving to The office suite. Sally waves off a security guard as they immediately approach the snobby looking receptionist.>>

Sally Spectra and Blaze Victory here for Cameron King. We'll see ourselves in, thank you!

<< Blaze smirks as the receiptionist tries to object, standing up to follow after them. Sally and Blaze reach the double doors of Cameron's office and Sally flings them open as they boldly enter, the receptionist trying, and failing to stop them>>

Cameron, dahling!

<< Blaze continues to find amusement in the way Sally completely ignores the receptionist. Blaze herself stands along side Sally, looking around the large office suite, this was her first time actually visiting Zenith in person>>

 

[Arsenal]

Whap!

Whap! Whap!

Grunts and heavy striking accompanied the lithe form before him. He had been watching for a bit, but she was too preoccupied to notice. He took a seat and grabbed a pair of 400 pound barbells, still silently watching. After a couple of sets of 30 he set them down silently and decided to make himself known.

Ahem!

She turned quickly, almost like her pet panther, wondering who the hell was here. She finally saw him and he put his hands up.

I am here in peace! I hated to disturb you so I found my own spot. I am just glad that I am not whoever you are beating the shit out of right THERE. Only one thing I saw...you telegraph the power shots. Probably a throwback from before you had goddess strength. You should never have to shift that much weight to hit anyone this side of Nic or Sharon.

Mike walked over and nodded at the trainer, who promptly walked away. He put on some punch mitts and gave her targets to hit.

We both know that IF you tell anyone what's eating you, it probably won't be me. Fair enough. But I CAN help you stop telegraphing that uppercut and help you finish working out this...whatever it is. You decide to talk, I'll listen. But for now, beat these pads up a bit more and I will shut up, except to try to help that hook.

 

[Prophet]

The Zenith Group Headquarters - Wallstreet

"I expect everything to be in place for Monday, Richards...when I give you a timeline I expect it to be followed..."

Cameron was sitting in the center of his newly rennovated executive office suite at The Zenith Group building on wallstreet. A crackling fire roared behind him. The city was getting colder and he felt a fire would be a fitting accessory to have when Blaze Victory arrived at your office. He was attending to last minute details for the coming work week...which would see Ava Cassadine be placed on The Board of Trustees for The Zenith Group as well as heading up the Internation Project of The Parthenon in Paris.

"Her office needs to be perfect and her staff needs to be ready. I've appointed Simon Pratt as her Chief Liasion for the project...He was there a few weeks ago, and he was able to secure the acreage we needed for the park as well as for hopefully a special private project I have in the pipeline...Yes...I HAVE seen the papers recently...and NO I don't give a shit. I've picked the perfect person for the job and the perfect person to assist her. And I'd be careful what you say about somebody who effectively becomes one of YOUR bosses on Monday morning...Look i've got a meeting in a few minutes...Just get what I asked in order, will you? Thanks..."

He placed the phone back on the receiver as he sat down in his desk, completely pleased with himself. Cameron had specifically picked Simon for the Paris job because he had sensed the attraction between Simon and Ava at The Zenith Group a few days earlier. Originally he just intended Simon to become sort of a "job perk" for Ava. Cameron hadn't seen James in quite some time and he figured she could use a distraction. He didn't intend for Simon and Ava to be making front page news. That was icing on the cake. The more those two were seen photographed together, the more people would want to KNOW about them, and in turn..the more they would want to learn about The Parisian Parthenon. It was synergy at it's finest, and any businessman would be proud. He smiled to himself as he took a sip of his coffee.

"And Sally comes bursting through those doors in 3...2....1"

Sally: Cameron, dahling!

He shook his head and laughed a little as she came trampsing through his large office like a wildabeast. His receptionist and personal assistant Caitlin seeming incredibly frazzled. Cameron put his hands up in a 'easy now' way to her.

"It's fine Caitlin...they have an appointment...and even if they didn't...you would have had NO way of stopping the TIDAL WAVE that is Sally Spectra..."

Cameron turned his attention to Sally and Blaze.

"Sally, my LOVE! I've seen you THREE times in the last forty eight hours...I'm starting to think you might be FALLING for me!"

He embraced Sally in a warm hug as he gave her a linger and firm kiss on the lips, before gesturing her to take a seat in front of his desk. He greeted Blaze next.

"You like the place? [gesturing around him] Just got rennovated! Everything's perfect! And there's a second story...for private meetings!"

Cameron winked as he gave Blaze a hug as well and gestured her to sit down next to Sally before making his way back to his desk and taking a seat.

"I know it was a little last minute, but thanks for coming! I hope you BOTH had a good time last night?"

He took a look at his desk for a moment, making sure everything was in it's place before beginning.

"Well...this whole New York trip was supposed to be strictly pleasure...so I guess I will cut straight to the chase..Allow me..."

Cameron stood from his chair for a moment.

"Sally...you've created one of the biggest fashion empires in the WORLD. There isn't a celebrity or socialite worth their salt that DOESN'T own a few Spectra pieces. You create outfits that aren't just statements, they are EVENTS. People FLOCK to your shows, they SNATCH up your lines like HOTCAKES and you can go toe to toe with some of the most successful business people in this country..."

He paced back and forthe as he continued.

"Blaze...ever since you've arrived here with us, you have worked with Morgan and Sally and even Nicolas to help create and launch some of the most SUCCESSFUL campaigns that The House of Spectra has seen to DATE. Your personality, your attention to detail and your sense of ADVENTURE have brought a new life into the Spectra brand...."

He stopped for a moment and threw his arms out, almost shrugging.

"And me?! Well...not to toot my own horn but I own the largest investment firm in the entire country. I also own the country's most exclusive and luxurious hotel...The Parthenon Brand is poised and ready for it's expansion into Europe...with the construction and completion of The Parisian Parthenon coming soon..it will offer the same comforts that everyone has come to know from The Parthenon: NYC with a few 'additions' that honor and accentuate the romance and culture of the city. The three people in this room are incredibly successful in their own right...and I can't help but wonder, just how much MORE successful we might be...if we were to work TOGETHER?"

Cameron sat down at his desk once more as he could tell that both of the women were intrigued. He took a softer stance as he continued to speak.

"Blaze...you have done The House of Spectra proud...but I wonder, what is it that YOU truly want for your future? You love fashion, that much is true...but is it the ONLY thing you can see yourself doing...FOREVER?"

[looking at Sally]

"Calm down, doll...I'm not trying to steal her away...but I AM trying to give her an opportunity..."

"Thanks to the help of Simon Pratt, I recently was able to require a rather PRIME piece of real estate in the HEART of Paris. A piece of real estate that just DOES NOT become available. The whole thing was very lucky... I decided to think of what I might want to do with that space...How can that space help The Parthenon...and that's when I thought...maybe it shouldn't just benefit The Parthenon...maybe there is somebody who could do something REALLY great with that space for THEMSELVES...and naturally I thought of YOU..."

"Blaze, ever since you nearly left us...I've been thinking...I've been trying to put the pieces of the puzzle together...and I think I might have figured it out. You are in essence a true party girl, there's no doubt about that. While you excel in business, you are at your BEST when you are ENTERTAINING the people around you..you need only to look to last's night PERFORMANCE to confirm THAT..."

[smiling]

"It's time for you to branch out...Sally and Morgan have been GREAT wings to be under, but I think in order to TRULY cement yourself here with us...you NEED something of your OWN. Something that belongs to YOU..something that you can develop into your own UNIQUE brand. It's time to start building your empire..."

The Plasma Screen behind him on top of the mantle of the fireplace turned on as images of club lights and small venues began to play around him. Club music could be heard with an undeniable beat. Hot women in corsets and fishnets began to dance around.

"One of the most famous destinations to visit in Paris is of course...The Moulin Rouge. People travel all over the world to see the historical show. It's sexy and fun and people love it...and maybe this is the insatiable capitalistic tyrant in me but...I think we can BEAT it...I think YOU can beat it...You have a NATURAL stage presence...and you can DANCE like nobody's business, and not just for fun...you can really dance....I'd like you to consider joining The Zenith Group.. In doing so, you'd own the property in Paris outright and helm the designing and execution of Paris' next PREMIERE and ULTRA exclusive BURLESQUE club...This club will TEST it's audience's boundaries..it will be provocative, sexy and naughty...It will be the FIRST club in the city to feature MALE and FEMALE dancers in the show. Decadence at it's FINEST....That's where YOU come in Sally..."

[he turned to Sally]

"Of course, Blaze would still stay on at Spectra if she chooses, as you will be VERY busy designing ALL fashions and accessories for the shows in the culimination of a Burlesque themed "line" that will make it's debut at the GRAND OPENING of The Parisian Parthenon..and then trickle into the Spectra Boutiques...I would in turn handle ALL marketing and promotion and the media campaign will be handled by none of than Liquid Crystal Images, to ensure the UTMOST security and the ULTIMATE control of your brand's image. Any GUEST stars you secure would of course stay at The Parthenon as part of their contract, and I would of course need an official endorsement from you Blaze, out of good faith. The venue lies a mere stone's throw from The Parthenon in Paris and under the VISION and PASSION of somebody like YOU, Blaze...I think we could make the three of FILTHY...STINKING...RICH. Well even MORE so..."

He stood once more and walked over to Blaze's side of the desk as he leaned on the corner, grabbing her hand.

"I've taken care of everything...I've got you a business license, I've got you everything you could need. You could parlay this into an entire BRAND of clubs, or branch out into promotions, in ANY facet of the ENTERTAINMENT industry you can imagine...HELL, if things go well with this project...I've got leads in the music industry, radio, film...you NAME it...This is your ticket to create a brand and EMPIRE that is unique to you..."

[looking at the both of the as he stands in the middle, between them...]

"All you have to do..is say YES..."

Cameron watched the two women ponder their decision. This could be VERY beneficial to them and be a GREAT precursor to the OTHER gifts Blaze would receive later on tonight. If she took this bait she would unknowningly be EXPANDING what was coming to her already...

"Of course, there is plenty of business mumbo jumbo to go over, but no sense in explaining all of THAT until I know you're on board..."

 

[Rampage]

:: She answered Haleigh's last question. ::

"I drain them until there's nothing left. LITERALLY. They are nothing but a pile of dust."

:: She shook her head. It was time for questions of her OWN. ::

*curious*: "Okay, Haleigh, I just want to know ONE thing: how the FUCK did you find Bryda Jesko when she pretty much disappeared off the face of the earth?"

:: She wanted to know in case she ever had to hide again. ::

Nicolas HAD to laugh. And he did so...shaking for a moment before finally speaking.

Cass...there is no hiding from us. Haleigh checks everyone we come into contact with. And her resources are as close to limitless as one can imagine. Now that we have everything pretty much out on the table, I have a proposal.

Nicolas takes a step back so as to see the pair of reactions.

The targeted baddies get teleported into a labyrinth, naked and wandering. Our girl gets to hunt them and maintain herself at their expense. There is no trace. Probably as clean as what you do now, maybe even moreso.

Nicolas was serious. DEAD serious. Now he would see if they were serious or not.

 

[Persephone]

Ava had been at it for about an hour. Hitting the punching bag with every ounce of strength and power she had in her. She jabbed, back handed, upper cutted, and kicked the shit out of the bag as if her life depended on it. Her entire body was covered in a sheen of sweat, and the loose strands of hair that fell from her pony tail stuck to the sides of her face. Grunting a few times as her fist connected with the bag, her heart was racing and her eyes were focused on the "kill."

Mike: Ahem!

There was music pumping throughout the gym, but the holographic people were silent. So as soon as she heard a voice, Ava quickly turned. Seeing it was Mike, she her tense body relaxed a bit. Out of breath, her chest moved in and out as she swiped the back of her gloved hand across her forehead.

Mike: I am here in peace! I hated to disturb you so I found my own spot. I am just glad that I am not whoever you are beating the shit out of right THERE.

Letting out a small laugh.

"Who says you aren't?"

She teased between breaths.

Mike: Only one thing I saw...you telegraph the power shots. Probably a throwback from before you had goddess strength. You should never have to shift that much weight to hit anyone this side of Nic or Sharon.

"Yeah?"

Cracking her neck to the side, Mike began to walk over to the punching bag dismissing the trainer who had been holding it for her before. He picked up a pair of punching mitts and put them on. They had definitely come a long way since the night of the Set caper. Ava respected Mike, even moreso after what happened that night, but it was a long process to get to that point.

Mike: We both know that IF you tell anyone what's eating you, it probably won't be me. Fair enough. But I CAN help you stop telegraphing that uppercut and help you finish working out this...whatever it is. You decide to talk, I'll listen. But for now, beat these pads up a bit more and I will shut up, except to try to help that hook.

Inhaling a deep breath, Ava nodded. She really didn't need to respond to Mike, because obviously, he knew enough not to pry. And frankly, it was nice to have someone just take a few blows without any questions. Getting in a fight stance, Mike lifted his mitt covered hands. Sending out a few jabs, Ava then turned her body in a 360 spin, connecting the back of her fist into one of Mike's fist. Doing a quick cross jab hook, she then connected the move with an upper cut. These series of connective boxing moves went on for a good five minutes straight before Ava finally took a step back, out of breath.

With her hands on her hips, the goddess looked at Mike.

[between breaths] "Thanks Mike."

 

[Arsenal]

Inhaling a deep breath, Ava nodded. She really didn't need to respond to Mike, because obviously, he knew enough not to pry. And frankly, it was nice to have someone just take a few blows without any questions. Getting in a fight stance, Mike lifted his mitt covered hands. Sending out a few jabs, Ava then turned her body in a 360 spin, connecting the back of her fist into one of Mike's fist. Doing a quick cross jab hook, she then connected the move with an upper cut. These series of connective boxing moves went on for a good five minutes straight before Ava finally took a step back, out of breath.

With her hands on her hips, the goddess looked at Mike.

[between breaths] "Thanks Mike."

No problem. Your speed and imagination is what makes you deadly, not brute force. That was great to behold for...more than the OBVIOUS reasons.

Mike chuckled and dropped the mitts. His palms were red, but nothing permanent.

If you need to work out ever, you have my number. I am always here to help. If you want, I am headed up to meet Karen to get some calories in me. You are welcome to join us if you wish. We would love to have you. The choice is yours. 25 minutes, VIP lounge.

Mike nodded and then turned on his heel, leaving the DR.