The Blackout Party

[Seer]

from Aerie BACK to NYC

<< and so, Alycia's return was in question, but while some may have been disappointed, that would have to wait. the time had come for this new faced team to return to NYC for the first time since Illustra was destroyed. It was more than a little thrilling for them, but Sharon was not quite as moved and the alternate Blaze wouldnt appreciate what this "return" meant to the mainstreams either.>>

<< even with Sharon being in silver while Haleigh was in white, Blaze in red and Nicolas in grey everyone was dressed and as ready as could be for an evening that would be uncertain at best.>>

<< after Sharon's gryfalcons are covered up to keep them calm for the evening and Tinkerbell is placed in Nicolas' room on the bed so she can sleep, the group is teleported via Worm Hole by Delilah from one side of the world to the other. the sensation is different than Spellbinder's discs, but no less exhilirating.>>

<< they arrive at Haleigh's safe house which is very close to the Hellfire mansion in this posh area of NYC. inside, the do last minute prep. Haleigh scans the building for security detail, noting the guards who were in costume , the weapons they were carrying concealed and the level of training they had which was considerable. Malice wouldnt employ amateurs. the building was fortified with anti personnell devices and features capable of countering a number of mutant, metahuman abilities, some were obvious and some were not, ALL were grafted into the decor of the mansion.>>

<< Nicolas and Haleigh through their individual ways could register many mutants and metahumans present, but all were secretive about their status. there a few magick users in attendance as well. What they DIDNT realize yet was that Malice (the one and only) and Enchantra from the alternate time were now here as well as their special guest, the new Black Queen, the one whom Nicolas actually was seeking but didnt know.>>

<< Haleigh summons a luxury vehicle and the group boards, before being driven to the hellfire mansion. they exit out, clearly looking like they belong, but there are a few disapproving whispers about Sharon's SILVER dress at the Blackout party.>>

 

[Silver Swan]

inside the Blackout

[ back in NYC, it feels like she's been gone for years rather than months. but then again being dead, then alive and insane , then disconnected from oneself before being nearly obliterrated AGAIN and then leaving to live in a hidden mystical realm can leave a person feeling disconnected from the rest of the world cant it?]

[ the mild spring breeze washed against her skin. thanks to her intense training and mental conditioning, her costume was no longer bonded to her skin in one form and this dress was much more comfortable, luxurious. it made her feel more like her OLD self. Even haleigh, in a surprise remark, spoke of knowing now what Zach must have seen in her while wearing this dress.]

[ coming back to the Hellfire club after so many years, without Robert, it was nother surreal feeling. but she had to keep herself focused. there was a REASON they were here and it wasnt for a trip down memory lane.]

[ up to the stairs they went. Sharon walking ahead of the trio.]

to be here again, after all this time...people are starring, and yet...I DONT CARE. I'll be MYSELF...EVERYDAY.

[she thought defiantly. the concierge and the guards rose up.]

I'm Mrs. Robert Kelly, Senator Sharon Kelly....

[they looked at her.]

What are you STARRING AT? I'm here arent I? just check the list and LET ME PASS.

[ and with that they make way for her and her guests. they past through the marble foyer and walk through to a world of luxury, decadence and glamor. Sharon is a little taken aback, to be around so many humans again...to be in a setting that is no longer part of her own world. the smooth modern jazz plays, as she stands, forgetting that she's with a group. she hears heart beats, the smallest sounds, even whispers...]

so many ugly people, despite their beautifull clothes...this is what i was apart of before? my husband robert and i....

[ a scantily clad maid moves by, casually offering Sharon the opportunity to take a goblet of Dom Perignon. The mutate is disinterested as she snapped out of her deep thought .]

oh...no thank you.

[ she was soon after approached by an older, distinguished looking man who apparently recognized her.]

William Stryker: Sharon? Sharon Kelly?? so the rumours ARE true...you're not dead after all! and you look beautifull as ever...still going against the grain i see, wearing a silver dress to the BLACKOUT party...

[ as he touches her...she takes offense]

Don't TOUCH ME!

[ grabbing his hand and squeezing it HARD as the man winces.]

just...get BACK.

[ and with that, she pushes him away and quickly walks in another direction.]

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas walked proudly with his team as they entered the party, thanks to a forceful sponsorship from Sharon. As she stood in the room, he could sense a bit of her feelings, like behind a screen. He could also see the contrast. To be certain, everyone here was one of the "beautiful people". But most of them had insides as corrupt and rotten as could be found. He had no wish to be one of these people, that was why he refused to wear the uniform of one of their ridiculous aspirants or their hired help.

Catching the eye of a scrutinizing onlooker, Nicolas returned his gaze. The man was unknown to him, but Nicolas knew that he was a mutant. He had some power, but Nicolas nodded at him in the negative, as if to say "you do NOT want this". The man, somewhat shaken, looked away as Nicolas noticed a small scene in front of him.

[ as he touches her...she takes offense]

Don't TOUCH ME!

[ grabbing his hand and squeezing it HARD as the man winces.]

just...get BACK.

[ and with that, she pushes him away and quickly walks in another direction.][/I]

Nicolas stepped between the man (who he now recognized as William Stryker) and Sharon as she walked a bit away.

She's not in the mood, so I would take her warning. Dom?

Nicolas motions to a server who quickly comes over. He picks up a glass and offers it to the man.

Have some <<sniffs, then puts back>> it has been thawed at LEAST a day.

Nicolas turns and walks away...

 

[Black Widow]

The gala was bustling with the affluent and the decadent... most of whom Haleigh could easily identify, some of whom she'd even dealt with BEFORE... but none would recognize Haleigh... She hadn't been seen by any of these people since she'd gotten her new 'face'.... and so, Haleigh could smirk at these old aquientences, with them none the wiser. She even taunted some of them, nodding with superiority, sending them into fits of confusion though they knew enough to politely acknowledge her back.

Haleigh was doing more than just scoping out the party... she was keeping the surviellance from scoping out THEM.... forcing camera sweeps to look the other way, temporarily shorting out hidden microphones, tampering with the exposure of pictures that would have shown them to be in attendance.... all to prevent any physical evidence of them... without pictures or footage.... there was no proof and Haleigh of ALL people was aware that it wasn't what you KNEW.... it was what you could PROVE. As a fortunate side effect.... all of the Six stayed OFF the monitors being observed by Malice, Enchantra, and their newly crowned Black Queen.

Sharon has a run-in with William Stryker.... Haleigh hangs back and doesn't interfere, though Nicolas does attempt some damage control. Haleigh's got something ELSE to deal with.... several feet away, there is an eruption of hurried whispers... they go beyond remarking about the Six's blatant disobediance of the dress code....

Man:"Check out the woman in white...."
Woman:"The White Queen?"
Another Man:"No, too young.... her daughter?"
Woman:"I didn't know she had a daughter."
First Man:"Not much really IS known about the White Queen... I suppose she COULD have a daughter."
Second Man:"Well, one thing's for SURE.... the only person with the clout to wear WHITE to the BLACKOUT gala would be the White Queen.... or her daughter."
Woman [in awe]:"The White Princess...."
First Man:"Yes... and don't forget her party mates.... the couple in red. The Red Princess and her date?"
Woman: "Well, if the Red Queen can disappear for such a long time that everyone assumes she's dead and then just POOF, turn up again at the Blackout party like nothing's happened then I'm sure she can just as casually introduce a grown woman as her offspring at her whimsy. The girl is probably another of Christopher's. Everyone knows how much THAT old horndog got around."
Second Man:"Even MORE curious than the idea that they have children is the fact that the supposed offspring are running around with former Senator Sharon Kelly... see the woman in silver there [pointing]... that's her."
Woman:"And here I thought SHE was dead too.... I guess the Senator was more a part of our circle than she and her dead husband ever let on."

Haleigh:"Don't you vapid yakking idiots have BETTER things to do than stand around gossiping about the Royalty?? Why don't you PISS OFF and go kiss someone else's ass.... or else the NEXT thing people will be whispering about is whatever happened to the lot of YOU for sticking your nose where it didn't belong."

Haleigh growls with a disdainful glare, causing the trio of gossipers to disband and slink away like scolded children. Haleigh took a glass of champagne from a passing attendant and made her way over to Sharon with a frown.

"The richer people are the less MANNERS they seem to have."

She sighed, sipping from her flute and continuing to scan the party, looking for anyone that might be of help with Nicolas's problem.

"Sharon.... try to remain calm... and not cause a scene. I know you must feel like a fish out of water here... but we need to at least SEEM like we belong here and try to siphon as much information out of these people as we can.... you won't be able to do that by blowing off William Stryker and others like him. We NEED to know what THEY know... and it may require that we spend some time out of our comfort zones in order to learn from them."

 

[Enchantrah]

"Well, well, well....it seems we have company."

Helena nodded her chin in the direction of Sharon, Nicolas, Haleigh, and Blaze. Shifting her sapphire eyes over to Dominique, a hue of red flushed along the woman's carmel colored cheeks at the sight of Nicolas. That alone put a smirk on Helena's face. Moving her eyes back to the six, Helena watched as their little sparrow made a small scene with William Stryker...temper temper mother goose... she thought to herself, enjoying the fact that even now, Sharon couldn't stand the thought of being in the same room with people that ultimately helped facilitate the projects that killed her son and her 'former' self.

So far, the six had made quite a stir among the guests that were in attendence. However, they had yet to spot herself, Diana, and Dominique who were in a lofted VIP room overlooking the main level of the party. With her elbow propped on the arm of her chair, Helena casually waved her fingers in a 'fan' pattern creating a subtle shadow around the VIP loft, concealing them from sight. It would look as if the area was simply dimly lit for 'mood' purposes.

"No need to draw their attention to us just yet. Voyeurism can be such fun...especially at their expense. [looking to Diana] I've already taken care of our DNA signatures so Davidoff can't compute that we are even in this timeline, so just make sure King can't sense my mind."

Knowing that Dominique and Diana both had ways of protecting their minds from Nicolas, unfortunately Helena's was the only one he could actually sense or tamper with unless Malice protected it for her.

 

[Silver Swan]

[ in many ways this was a true test of her new found discipline from her time on Themyscria. Despite all she had become, she was still at her core, A HUMAN. The Amazons reminded her to not be ashamed of her past, but understand it, OWN IT and face herself as she is NOW with as much boldness as she ever had while being a senator. Indeed, the Amazons themselves were women who died in tragedy. Tragic yet honorable deaths only to be reborn as they were now, the ULTIMATE gift. Her being the Silver Swan was a GIFT , nothing to be ashamed of.]


[ Nicolas checks Stryker, Sharon's one time former opponent in the Senate race. She beat him, and died several hours later at the hands of Master Mold. the sight of him took her aback but Haleigh reminded her that they needed to attempt to blend in. that there was a bigger goal here. If she didnt know before, she knew NOW that she was thrust into ACTIVE DUTY with the Six.]


I'm sorry...

[ she adjusts the plantinum bracelets that adorn her wrist.]

It's just been a while since I've been apart of a scene...like this. and Stryker....

[ Nicolas and Blaze drew near. Haleigh was keeping the cameras off them as much as possible but even she knew they wouldnt go unnoticed for long.]

Okay...I can handle it. you'll see.

[ at that moment a man, dressed in 18th century garb, complete with powdered wig approached.]

Attendant: Begging your pardon, Mrs. Kelly, but the pleasure ofy our company is well received. We have your suite prepared for you and your guests. it is ready for you at anytime. Robert Kelly and his father before him were well established, respected members of the club, and you were Robert's lovely wife. The Hellfire Club takes special care of its widow members. We are completely at your disposal.

[ he hands her the key card.]


Sharon: Thank you very much. Are there any other members...of the Kelly family present?

[ She knew Robert had been dead for a long time...but with everything that had happened with mystech..her son, the six...HERSELF...Just in case...she just had to ask...not really knowing what she expected him to say other than...]

Attendant: No, Madame. You are the only one present.


Sharon: ...okay....thank you.


[ she speaks softly, seeming a bit disappointed DESPITE knowing the reality. she pauses for a moment, before thinking to pull out a tip for the man from her silver satin clutch. the man smiles gratefull and departs.]


[ looking at the others.. Sharon holds the key card in her hand.]

well...at least we have a place to hole up in for a while. the Suites are lavishly furnished and there's room service at beck and call.

but we should take the time to move through the crowd...partake of refreshments and the music and all. the BLACKOUT party is a night were people meet, mingle, exchange secrets, corporate spying etc etc...it all happens here even influences on government policy have happened here.

[she knew they would use this time to gather information about the person behind the massive, sweeping takeover of King Enterprises, but in her heart...what she really wanted to do was SING , she'd learned to control her sonic abilities to a variety of effects and now had a perfect singing voice, that would EASILY make her a rival for Dominique but the Blackout party was not the place for that. there would be other occasions.]

 

[Malice]

Blackout party- VIP Suite

"Well, well, well....it seems we have company."[

Helena nodded her chin in the direction of Sharon, Nicolas, Haleigh, and Blaze. Shifting her sapphire eyes over to Dominique, a hue of red flushed along the woman's carmel colored cheeks at the sight of Nicolas. That alone put a smirk on Helena's face. Moving her eyes back to the six, Helena watched as their little sparrow made a small scene with William Stryker...temper temper mother goose... she thought to herself, enjoying the fact that even now, Sharon couldn't stand the thought of being in the same room with people that ultimately helped facilitate the projects that killed her son and her 'former' self.

::as Enchantra pointed out a most interesting development, Malice's opal blue eyes moved to the one monitor that Haleigh hadnt accounted for. a wicked smirk came over her beautifull face::

Now THIS is a truly unexpected bonus.

:: looking at Dominique who was also drawn to the floating monitor. Malice immediately detected the emotional flash of ANGER from Dominique at the sight of Nicolas...it was POWERFULL.::

Dominique, i assume that you see your quarry amongst the new arrivals, who clearly were not interested in observing the dress code of the evening.

::Noting Sharon in silver, Blaze in Red, Haleigh in WHITE / and Nicolas in grey::


:: Watching as Sharon rebuffed William Stryker, Malice took note. Sharon Kelly, the Senator whose child Malice had helped identify as a mutant. the woman whose husband was murdered in Arklay mansion, the MOTHER who did all she could but STILL could not save her child. Everything from then till now was so much in the way of change and Sharon seemed more hostile than ever before. the perfect target for empathic attacks if things got down to it this evening.

So far, the six had made quite a stir among the guests that were in attendence. However, they had yet to spot herself, Diana, and Dominique who were in a lofted VIP room overlooking the main level of the party. With her elbow propped on the arm of her chair, Helena casually waved her fingers in a 'fan' pattern creating a subtle shadow around the VIP loft, concealing them from sight. It would look as if the area was simply dimly lit for 'mood' purposes.

There is a tremendous amount of determination, even agression..even RAGE stirring within Nicolas. They are here at HIS behest. They are searching for information.

:: she gathered this by quickly and judiciously surfing the mind of Blaze, the most unprotected of the three from psychic contact, then from Haleigh, whose mind she had torn through during their encounter in the alternate reality. THEY had a grudge match coming, as did Enchantra and Haleigh...another interesting thing to see what would come of it.::

:: Enchantra was already insulating them further from detection. while Diana remained seated, not even showing a sign to get up. she looked over at Helena.::

"No need to draw their attention to us just yet. Voyeurism can be such fun...especially at their expense. [looking to Diana] I've already taken care of our DNA signatures so Davidoff can't compute that we are even in this timeline, so just make sure King can't sense my mind."

Don't worry. I've made sure your mind is safe from detection, just remember to continuous think of "ocean waves crashing" , it will add to the whitenoise effect that will keep him away. Nicolas never COULD breach my psi blocks. His forte' is telekinesis. He's become more refined since i first tangled with him nearly a year ago, he's become more calculating, which makes him more dangerous. but his telepathy is still no match for mine. If Dominique can remain nearly impossible for me to scan, the Nicolas certainly wont be able to register her either.

As for now, I agree. We'll let them be for a while. Give us a chance to watch them as they search for the information they need. It'll give Dominique a chance to observe them as well. Won't they be FLOORED when they see the person they are looking for is here WAITING for them.

They've arrived easily enough. But their DEPARTURE will be anything BUT.

:: and with that, the White, Red and newly annointed Black Queens remain seated, calm and collected and most of all WELL HIDDEN, above the crowds, out of reach and detection.::

 

[Isis]

Hellfire Club- VIP SUITE

[ a new chapter in one's life was always filled with uncertainty, a little anticipation, and of course high expecations. Dominique was quietly pleased with the outcome of her descision to not only join the Hellfire Club, but to become its new Black Queen. It was a sound move both in covert strategy and in future endeavors.]

[ as the three women seemed to be on better ground with one another, Helena alerted them to new arrivals..4 of them. She too watched the one monitor that was able to capture their images.]

so it IS true

[ they WERE alive. Even Blaze, unless she too was a renegade alternate like Helena. But there was no sign of Morgan or Alison. or the woman whom her earthen soldiers had fought at Minerva's mansion weeks ago...Karen Victoria! Yes, Dominique was the person who attempted to steal the sceptor of Isis, a powerfull egyptian talisman that would only ADD to Dominique's impressive array of abilities. She suspected that had she gone in herself, she would have faced the doctor and while she was certainly prepared, she did not want to lose track of her more IMPORTANT goal at that time, which was to gather information on Nicolas while systematically taking over his company with a controlling amount of share holds...eliminating those who stood in her way.]

Nicolas King...

[ she said it with such CONTEMPT...as her perfectly manicured nails raked across the arm of the large, plush chair she was seated in. One MUST NOT lose composure, especially in front of someone like HELENA who feeds off of perceived weakness. Dominique contains any further signs of anger.]

that wasnt his name when he was born. this life he lives..it came at a HIGH PRICE and its time he REPAID that debt...with BLOOD!

[ Diana and Helena too precautionary measures. and Dominique decided to help.]

Given the abilities of Nicolas...his spatial perception could detect an ANAMOLY around the area where Enchantrah has cloaked us. It may prompt him and Davidoff, whose powers are rooted in technology to further investigate. They would SEE nothing...FIND nothing...but we know that they never give up and that NOTHING is impossible.

[ at that moment, an odd chime is heard as a golden glowing egyptian hieroglyphic manifests with a searing effect on the entrance of their suite. ]

It is a warding rune. It will jolt anyone who somehow manages to reach this area with enough force to lay down an ARMY of men, leaving them temporarily paralyzed.

Furthermore...

[having heard that Sharon has a suite waiting, another rune manifests in the wall of that suite, glowing gold at first before fading down to blend in with the wall...at the right moment, it would transform into a SCORPION, not just an ordinary scorpion either... this scorpion would be immune to all attempts to destroy it, but one sting from it would poison its victim into unconsciousness and paralysis.]

a little personal greeting that will keep them occupied if they should get too close.

[ Dominique wanted to fight Nicolas, she wanted to show him that he wasnt the ONLY one who had changed..and to REMIND HIM of the lives he DESTROYED...just by his being here, BUT after all her carefull planning and calculated moves, there was no point in being foolish now. she too sat calmly with the others.]

Now then, let us enjoy ourselves as they go there way and we go ours.

 

[Rampage]

As Nicolas turned from Stryker, he sens a telepathic/telekinetic ping through the room. This scan was abnormal in that many of those present were unable to be routinely scanned one way or another. As he azpproached an area near the seond floor balcomy, he is jolted by a ...BLAST of some sort. It was immense, more than enough to level the room, but he only stopped for a moment as he recovered, determined not to stagger or fall before the rabble that made up this club. Haleigh or Blaze would most likely notice his change as he more gingerly made his way with the group as he healed.

Their adversaries apparently safely hidden, Nicolas walks with the others through the room, towards the suite...

 

[Enchantrah]

Given the abilities of Nicolas...his spatial perception could detect an ANAMOLY around the area where Enchantrah has cloaked us.

Helena stiffled an irritated huff at Dominique's statement about Nicolas most likely detecting her illusion quickly. It was insulting even though it wasn't meant to be, therefore Helena flipped her hair behind her shoulder defiantly, making sure to clear up Dominique's perceptions of her powers.

"That boy couldn't sense his way out of a paper bag. My illusions are nearly impossible to detect, even for omega level telepaths. If anything your little stick figure [hieroglyphic] on the door will give us away."

It would seem that hers and Dominique's relationship would be quite similiar to the relationship she had with the former Black Queen [Karen Victoria of her time]. As Helena finished her drink, almost instantaneously a young waiter handed her another glass of champagne.

Waiter: From the gentleman, madam.." [he gestures across the room]

"Thank you."

Looking to the gentleman whom the boy gestured to, he was quite the looker....it was no secret Helena enjoyed the company of men, especially powerful men. Lifting the glass to her lips, Helena sipped the cold liquid before turning her attention back to Dominique and Diana.

"Anyhow, let them continue to play Nancy Drew for the evening. I intend to enjoy myself tonight, and I hope you ladies do the same. Excuse me..."

With a coy smile, Helena stood from her respected seat and made her way across the VIP room where the attractive gentleman stood waiting.

 

[Firebird]

Hellfire Club

Blaze's dark crimson dress managed to fit her svelte form like a second-skin perfectly. It accentuated all the feminine curves yet showed off her taut body. All the while revealing her near flawless hour-glass figure. Unlike most of the other women, Blaze wore her hair down in a dense roll of her sepia curls. Almost feathered that framed her heart-shaped face. Nicolas' clever design would incorporate a bit of a flare from the mutant as far as her own fashionable desires.

Stepping forward the long dress flowed gracefully like she was made of air to coil her hand around Nicolas'. "Such a gentlemen." Peering over to Haleigh's dress, allowing her eyes to wander on the hybrid for a few seconds. "She's just jealous I'll steal you away." A playful flirty jest on the part of the fire elemental. Although, Haleigh's remark was enigmatic and had peaked her curiosity. Trouble? What happened between Nicolas and Haleigh? Concealing the frown, Blaze took note of the remark but didn't dwell on it.

Nicolas' kind offer to Sharon went noted but even Blaze was in awe at the strength and power of this Sharon's powers. "Neat, hot little dress." Winking to the Silver Swan playfully forgetting this still wasn't the one she knew. Sobering her expression up, Haleigh's comment threw the brunette for a loop. 'What Zach saw in her?' Unsure if she heard that, Blaze blinked her smoky-long lashes. Zach loved Haleigh, poor Blaze wasn't aware of the decadent little affair since her Haleigh was always aloof and showed no visible sign of emotion. Shaking her head, she cleared her voice, "Let's get a move on then, we've got a party to crash."

As Delilah manifested the worm hole, each of the team walked through to be transported to Haleigh's safe house. Immediately, Blaze walked towards the bathroom to add a few finishing touches to her ensemble. A diamond tennis bracelet and a dark crimson lipstick to match her dress. Returning to the others just as their luxury vehicle arrived. "Damn, gotta love Haleigh." Flashing her a smirk as they all piled into the vehicle. Blaze had been slightly worried for Nicolas, would he be able to control his emotions? Especially with Morgan and Dr. Victoria not around. She could only hope the mutant could handle himself.

The vehicle rolled to a step and each of them climbed out. Stepping out last, Blaze's emerald eyes took everything in. Catching the glamour and the power that dripped off the members who strolled in like a cocky peacock. Blaze flashed one of her carefree smiles blending in perfectly as she followed the entourage towards the front of the building. Sharon's voice could be clearly detected, causing Blaze to side-step to peer over a few taller people to see. Clearly, Sharon didn't like to be touched by anyone. In a way she reminded Blaze of Alycia. The next commotion between Sharon and William Stryker caused Blaze to offer another crest smile. This wasn't exactly the best way to make an entrance.

Moving over to Sharon, Blaze's hand caressed the side of the woman's wrist. Leaning into the blonde, "Its okay, we'll make sure he doesn't dare to touch you again." Nicolas took the initiative to check William even to smooth the situation with a glass of champagne. God, didn't they have hard liquor like a screwdriver or even sex on the beach. Blaze wasn't an avid fan of the bubbling liquid as she refrained, "No thanks, honey, Jenny Craig." The server smiled before walking away.

Commotion from her left caused Blaze to glance over to see Haleigh offering a bit of her own brutal honestly. Sighing under her breath, "Am I the only sane one here?" She mumbled to herself as the blonde crossed the distance between them. Blaze remained at Sharon's side. Playfully glaring at Haleigh (think Piper glaring at Phoebe). "Look whose calling the kettle black, darling." Smirking, Blaze was half serious yet half joking. "Would it kill you to kiss a little ass, Hales? Wait..." She threw up her hands, "Don't answer that, God I can only imagine what sort of reply I might get." Shaking her head as the wave of curls fell along with her.

As Blaze teased Haleigh, another man would greet Sharon providing her with the key card to the lounge upstairs. "Excellent." Her words were whispered as Sharon provided a bit more background to brief them. Blaze was standing between Sharon and Nicolas as the woman talked. Although Nicolas' movement sought her attention. Coiling her slender-bare arms around his neck to mask his jerky movements to spin them around. "I'm feeling like a dance." Winking up at him to try and camouflage Nicolas' little stumble. Her green eyes sought to catch his as if to say 'are you okay?'

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas as nodded shakily at Blaze and smiled his most charming smile. He did not wish to worry her, so her twirled her around a bit and dipped her, holding her a bit there as he whispered to her.

There are powerful forces in this building. Stay totally on your guard. I do not trust this place at ALL.

He sent the same message to the rest of the group telepathically as he picked Blaze back up and continued with the group...

 

[Firebird]

Blaze didn't have to be psychic or telepathic to see that Nicolas was on edge. Those deep-chocolate eyes of his betrayed him easily. Wrapping her arms around his thick neck to allow the muscular mutant dip her to the floor. A few of her dense curls hovered above the dance floor.

Straightening up, she canted her head to the side more towards his full lips. Concealing her facial expression from strangers and other members of the Hellfire Club. She faked a smile to make it look as though he whispered something in her ear. Playfully she smacked him on the shoulder blade as a chuckle escaped her lungs.

This was just great! But the team knew what they were getting themselves into or did they?

 

[Isis]

Hellfire Club- VIP suite

[ even in moments where they should be coming together, Helena showed herself to be little more than a snipping dog, always yipping and yapping, making noise, more annoying than anything else. Dominique looked upon the woman with no discernable feeling.]

the manifestation on the door is a rune, something that I'm sure your limited mind cannot understand since you are less than a novice in the ways of mystic arts. the initial flash of golden colour indicates the activation of a mystic barrier, after which it fades from view.

No matter what they do, even if they come to the space where this lounge is SUPPOSED to be, they will be repelled by such force that rivals the power channeled by Spellbinder's pentagram of protection.

[ she ended her retort there, no longer wanting to waste the energy it took talking to this insufferable woman. Helena thought herself something of a temptress as she attempted to mingle with some of the high end MEN in attendance in the luxury VIP suite. It was as equally unimpressive to watch her flirt as it was to see her do anything else really. ]

[ Dominique returned to looking at the viewing monitor with Diana.]

What a pity she couldnt "glamor" herself into someone with intelligence. But that might be pushing the limits of her parlour tricks.

[ Dominique's icy, catty reply told it all. She would take Helena at her measure, and find her WANTING. THIS Black Queen was as ready and willing to OWN the title and mantle as the White and Red Queen were.]

Diana, you mentioned something about the "Zero Hour" when the club is sealed and those who remained would be in their private rooms and suites. How far away are we from that?

[ She watched as Sharon lead the others to her VIP lounge. The sexy chanteuse's eyes fixed on Nicolas...wishing that she could cause the stripling to spontaneously combust right then and there, but alas, pyrokinesis was not among her power set]

 

[Malice]

Hellfire Club- Blackout party

:: Malice shieled Helena's mind as Nicolas reached out with an obviously BROAD band scan. She was the one telepath he could not match. His TK was another story, though history showed that Malice was able to block him from even accessing THAT, his charmed axe, given him by Morgan now helped to sharply cut down the DOWN TIME she could force upon him.::

Nicolas will no doubt realize that there's a block that he cannot breach. He knows there's only one telepath he's dealt with that can out power him in that regard. But it doesnt matter. What he cant SEE with his own eyes, what Haleigh CAN'T scan, courtesy of Helena will more than keep us insulated and with your rune, we are surely secure.

:: Dominique and Helena continued to discredit one another, causing Diana to roll her eyes.::

Helena, this isnt the original Black Queen, Karen from the alternate timeline. Dominique is just as given over to evil as we are. When you're done trying to recreate Britney's "Onyx Hotel" with your gentleman callers, kindly bring yourself down to the hidden tunnel network of the mansion...the control room. Dominique and I will be going there shortly.

Dominique, you'll find that Helena is quite adept in battle as well as strategy. Her personality is ....her own. Each of us has a strong will. If we're going to succeed, if we're going to have the ability to blight the Six in a continuous and MOUNTING campaign of destruction, we need to work TOGETHER.

:: as Dominique asked about when the club will be sealed...::

That happens at midnight. Since they are obviously here for information, they will be here for a while. we can make SURE they are delayed long enough until the mansion is sealed and once the "blackout" takes full effect? we can personally greet are party crashers.

 

[Enchantrah]

Helena was enjoying the company of a very handsome gentleman when the most annoying buzzing sound flooded her head; Malice's voice. Giving the gentleman a small smile before sliding onto a barstool next to him, Helena crossed her legs at the knee and glanced over in Diana's direction.

"Just because you haven't had a man since that lump in the bed, Christopher, doesn't mean you have to rain on my parade. And as far as Dominique is concerned, I won't treat her any differently than I treated Karen until she prooves that she won't backstab us like that witch did. I'll be over shortly....once i'm done with this fine specimen of a man."

And with that, Helena turned her attention back to her gentleman friend and continued to converse with him.

 

[Rampage]

Nicolas smiled as Firebird playfully tapped him, trying to be as reassuring as he could be. But he knew that SOMETHING was up, and so he continued to "search", scanning his surroundings. As he looked aro9und, he found an area that defied his scans, setting up a pattern that was unknown to him, but strangely familiar in terms of type. He was still thinking about it as the group stopped at the door of the suite, aciidentally bumping into both Firebird and Sharon.

Sharon, as one of the strongest of them, was barely moved at all. But Blaze? The fire elemental began to pitch forward as Nicolas reached her, holding her upright by grabbing her waist.

Whoops. S-Sorry Blaze. I didn't see you for a second...

Nicolas nervously gulped as he absentmindedly smoothed out her dress, pulling it lightly from the bottom as he let go of her.

 

[Silver Swan]

Hellfire Club- the suite

[ moving along, down the hall to their own suite, Sharon was surprised at how SMOOTHLY she and the others had "mingled" in to this setting. She was supposed to be DEAD and yet, no one seemed to be alarmed, at least not like they were when Bishop had dropped a bomb on the unsuspecting public.]

[ She had to use the lessons she learned on Themyscria as well as REMEMBER her own experiences, her humanity as she experienced something that felt "like the first time" all over again.]

[ at the luxury VIP suite, she prepared to open the door with her key card with Nicolas accidently bumped into her and Blaze. she looked over as Blaze was more jostled than she was. ]

Nicolas?

[ it was unlike him to stumble or to be unaware of his proximity to others, but maybe he was just as unsettled in his own way as she was. Nicolas steadied Blaze and Sharon opened the doors. they all went inside, unaware that a RUNE had manifested on one of the walls not too long ago. ]

Here we are.

[ she said flatly, while secretly noting the splendor of the luxury suite.]

Robert and I havent attended one of these gatherings as a couple...in ages. and I only attended a precious few during my time as a Senator. If this will help us blend in better, that suits me.

[ the others were inside and a chamber maid closed the door behind them. Sharon picked up a card from one of the tables.]

It says that the mansion will seal at midnight as the "Blackout" goes into full effect. Are we going to stay?

[ Sharon asked, knowing that Haleigh and Nicolas seemed to be taking the point on this mission as it were. Sharon never took kindly to being ordered about, and her potential for an "outburst" since becoming the Silver Swan was still on the minds of those who had first encountered her following her shocking resurrection. but the mutate had learned to appreciate direction and teamwork while on Themyscria. She was more tolerant of taking direction now...at least for the time being.]

 

[Seer]

into the night

<< and as this current incarnation of the Six settled, exhaling a bit after their initial run through the crowd in the ballroom, Nicolas and Haleigh had a chance to go over their findings in terms of the defenses of the building, the number of mutants/metahumans present AND the large spatial anamoly on the 2nd floor. Nicolas tried to keep himself in check, knowing this his quarry HAD to be here but not wanting to level the place or cause a scene. >>

<< the alternate Blaze attempted to bring Sharon closer to the "human" side of things as she talked to the woman. This Blaze couldnt help but see HER Sharon, "Swan Lake" as she affectionately nicknamed her. But her friendly intent, the warmth and charm of her heart seemed to do the trick as Sharon looked a bit less stern. They would all find Sharon to be a tremendous asset to them as the evening went on and SHE would find out that she was more cut out for being a "super heroine" than she might have ever imagined. >>

and so

<< the Six spent some time planning, and later relaxing, some more slowly "acclimating" into the vibe of the Hellfire Club than others. They enjoyed the finest food, drink and were attended by beautifull or handsome, but ALL scantily clad wait staff, all dressed in sexy, highly stylized 18th century garb. >>

<< the Blackout party was without a doubt a success, the burst of revenue from everyone from celebrities to investment bankers shelled out big bucks to insure that their membership to one of the most elite and powerfull secret socities remained a strong influence from the shadows in everything from the government to media and without MYSTECH overshadowing the Hellfire Club, Malice could ENSURE that the direction of this club was focused in its direction.>>

<< the midnight hour approached and now, Malice and Isis were preparing to leave the VIP suite which had been well cloaked by Enchantrah from the Six. They were going to make their "beauty pass" through the crowd, wishing their members and special guests a deliciously SINFULL evening as the BLACKOUT took a effect. when the lights went out and those who remained to stay in the suites (at a VERY high cost) would enjoy themselves in ways that few might want to admit, as well as secrets being shared, alliances being made...ALL under the watchfull (and hidden) "eyes" of the Inner Circle.>>

<< the Inner Circle would have its own unexpected turn of events though, as the Six had no plans to leave anytime soon.>>

 

[Malice]

Hellfire Club

:: Diana and Dominique took the time to talk a bit, both about their mutual hatred of Nicolas and their ideas for global power and dominance. Diana noticed though, that Dominique did not reveal the TRUE reason for her deep seated hatred of Nicolas. Diana had mentioned how he interferred with her at EVERY turn, and while she couldnt effectively read Dominique's mind, the EMPATHIC awareness that Diana had suggested Dominique was closely guarded about Nicolas...that it was a DEEPLY personal matter.::

could she be RELATED to him? but none of our GLOBAL searches indicated no known relatives and Nicolas was an orphan that was adopted...

:: it seemed remote, but at the same time, it wasnt that far fetched. still, at this moment, Dominique seemed ready for action and she seemed ready to stand with them in the inevitable confrontation with the Six this evening which promised to be especially "personal" on both sides.::

:: the time for the blackout is near.::

Dominique, Helena and I will present you to the Hellfire Club this evening as our new Black Queen. You'll need to wear specially designed outfit which I'm sure you can tailor to your measurements. Helena and myself will be dressed accordingly as well in our colors as the Red and White Queens. We will stand out on the balcony overlooking the guests in the ballroom and introduce you, shortly thereafter, the "BLACKOUT" will go into full effect and we, the inner circle will move down to the secret underground network beneath the mansion where the control room is.

:: she gestures as two chamber mades come forth, bringing a box with the outfit inside, a black, front lace up corsett complete matching "hot pants" a black fur trimed cape with a black choker w/a red rose attached. along with thigh high black high heeled boots and black opera gloves.::

This is for you, Ms. Deveraux. Wear it and SHAME the men who lust after you rather than YOU being ashamed. We are women of power, the rules that apply to those handicapped by their petty sense of "Morals" do not APPLY to us.

:: she smirked as she watched Dominique examine the garb::

and yes, it is all of the finest material, including the fur.

:: she motioned for Dominique to get ready::

time is short.