Rose found herself in her old apartment, among friends, laughter, and happiness as she went around asking if they wanted anything like drinks or snacks. She felt herself laughing and giggling at jokes unheard and as she made her way to the kitchen, an image of a woman with red hair came up to her and kissed her - it was a quick so it wasn’t awkward for others, but Rose could feel all the love and gentleness of someone who thought the world of her, making her grin shyly as she scooted around her to grab some sodas for the guests.

Suddenly though, she turned around to see her friends leaving, opening the apartment door and disappearing into the hallways. She kept trying to ask everyone what was going on, but every time she asked them, another friend or three would leave… before long the only one who was left was her lover, who hovered around the open door, staring at her. The words, ‘I’m sorry,’ was mouthed and soon her lover was also gone, leaving Rose completely and totally alone in her apartment - just standing there, holding her drinks and crying. She felt so alone. So alone.

Melrose shot up from her bed, waking up from her nightmare and breathing heavily. She reached up to her cheeks and felt tears steadily racing down her face. It was a nightmare she had been having for a while now and she always woke up, feeling heartbroken and abandoned. She once heard that nightmares were healthy, that having them meant you recognized your problems and were dealing with them. In truth… she was tired of dealing with them… she was tired of being alone every night…

Wiping her tears away, she looked down at her cat, who had been staring at her the entire time. Quietly, it mewed at her, making her smirk and scratch under her chin. She turned over and tried to get back to sleep. She was still rather tired from the late night.

Having finally woken up and gotten out of bed, Rose was at her closet, choosing a purple skirt and a pink shirt to wear. She had to go out early today since she had a project to do! Namely the new superhero clubhouse they had decided was their base. It was kind of fun, to think it was only a few blocks away! Grabbing a light jacket and tying her cutesy boots, she hopped up the stairs and hopped onto her bike, pressing another fancy button. Quickly, the entire color scheme of the bike changed from a sleek black to a purple and blue swirling pattern, giving her a chance to use the same bike without it being recognized on the streets. After all, what sort of vigilante rode around in a purple and blue bike? None of them did!

Melrose clicked the remote on the bike as the elevator took her back up, the cover opening up from above until she was level with the abandoned warehouse floor, the elevator platform merging perfectly so it was nearly impossible to tell there was one at all. Slowly rolling out of the building, the sealed doors opening at her beckon, she dialed a number and held the phone to her ear. “Hey, Tim… got another project for you - can you break away?” She paused to listen. “Oh, lucky me then, hehe… yeah, meet me at 4315 Racket Avenue… uh, yeah, I know it’s still in the same neighborhood, haha. Just meet me, please? - Thanks.”

Rosey was parked outside the clubhouse when Tim finally pulled up with his work truck, turning the engine off and hopping out with a friendly smile. “Miss Faye! I thought we were done around here… now you have another crazy project?”

Rose chuckle and shrugged innocently. “What can I say? I told a few friends and they thought it’d be fun - I know, us rich kids,” she teased. “But come on!” She urged him inside, opening the door and instantly pointing to the hole in the wall Tank had made. “So… uh…. yeah.. we need this place fixed up.” She looked over her shoulder, smiling amusingly at Tim’s expression.

“Uhh.. haha, you pick the strangest places Miss Faye.. but yeah, that shouldn’t be a problem. Do you want to keep the stage too?” he asked, starting to stroll around and take notes of what needed to be done. He has worked with Miss Faye long enough to know what she was asking.

Melrose muddled around for a little bit, inspecting the place herself for a few moments. She could instantly tell what needed to be touched up, fixed, restructured, but knew Tim was worth his money so she normally kept her mouth shut. “The stage? Yeah, totally keep THAT. Also, restore the platform above it - so it’s stable and can hold at least three people.” She hummed a little and spun towards Tim. “Also, when the restoration is done, we need it reinforced - your cousin, Tyler, can you get him to install that security system here too?”

Tim paused and grinned at her. “What, is this going to be your own private fortress?”

“Yeah - something like that. Can’t have the criminals knocking down the doors now, can we?” She gave him a playful, friendly wink.

Letting out a sigh of satisfaction, happy that the project had gotten underway, she plopped into her chair. Tim was a fast worker and it wouldn’t be that long before she was getting calls about completion - probably a week or two. For now though, she started to boot up her hacking program and sat thoughtfully for a few moments. She didn’t mean anything out of malice, but Ditch had hacked everyone’s phone and found out who they were - she was simply curious. So for the next couple of hours, she casually went about finding out everyone’s info, just enjoying knowing who would potentially be on the team. That was until she ran into Ditch’s info, but she wasn’t surprised - of course a super class A hacker would’ve deleted and removed all information on her. She sat there for a little while, debating if she could take the time to recover all the bits of data or not…

“Snooping, are you?” Ditch’s voice rang out through Melrose’s home. The infamous vigilante leaned against the doorway to the room, arms crossed, looking both curious and almost bored at the same time. Ditch expected someone to search for info sooner or later, but this was definitely sooner than later. Of course, anyone digging deep around her name would find nothing, and Ditch would be alerted immediately.

It hadn't taken much effort to get inside Rose’s home, and though she had no ill intent, she simply felt it best to speak to the woman face to face. “Nice place.” The blonde haired woman left her spot in the doorway to step further into the room, of course, without invitation. “And not too far from HQ at all.” Ditch’s outfit had hardly changed since their last meeting, she obviously wasn't trusting anyone with anything more then her face just yet. Black jeans, except these had stylish tears, converse instead of boots, and a black hoodie. Her mask was nowhere to be seen, but she had the same backpack as before slung over her shoulder. Unlike last meeting, she now sported black, heavy rimmed glasses. She moved her hands to her pockets as she waited Rose’s response to her intrusion.

Rose blinked for a moment and looked over her shoulder. At first there was no reaction, until finally a smile appeared on her lips. She didn’t feel threatened by Ditch, so instead, she felt impressed - of course she could bypass her silent alarm and activate the elevator. Though she was an interesting sort to just walk into a girl’s private room, but she really didn’t mind all that much - honestly, this was the first time any women had been in her room before - she kind of enjoyed the idea. “Yeah, well…” she started slowly, spinning to face Ditch. “Figured you got to know everything about us - well, almost everything,” she teased softly, “that it wasn’t such a bad thing to learn a thing or two about my teammates as well. We’ll be working together, after all… I wouldn’t worry too much though - I don’t normally go about flaunting what I know that much. I try not to anyways… I don’t like people thinking I’m arrogant..”

Ditch only uttered a small “hmn” after Rose finished speaking. “I don't mind you looking into your teammates,” Ditch started. “It's the clever thing to do, actually. If I were in your position I'd be doing the same. I only start to worry when my own personal business is being dug out of the grave.” Ditch smiled at Melrose, a kind smile, one that held no threats. “Though Umbra has taken someone from me, there are still people I need to protect. And though I've put many hours of research into making sure you won’t go behind my back, I can’t be sure just yet.” Ditch paused. “No offense.”

“Also,” Ditch said. “I heard you were getting a security system installed. I’ve already got that covered.” She gave Rose a smirk, but said nothing further of the subject, leaving her to wonder what Ditch had truly done to the place already.

“If you have questions,” She reverted back to the original topic without any trouble at all. “You can ask me. Of course, I won’t be spilling my guts, but if there are things you need to know if you’re going to be working with me, than by all means, ask away.”

Melrose pursed her lips for a moment and looked back at her computer before looking back and shaking her head ever so slightly. “Nothing in particular…” Rose’s tone had instantly changed, being tinged with sadness more than anything as she relaxed into her chair. “That makes sense though… that you still have loved ones to protect… I suppose not all of us have that sort of fortune.” She sighed and shifted. “Anyways - you’re not the only one to protect people you know, but of course you already know that, with Aurora… anyways, just saying.” She casually mentions towards her right. “If you want, you can go into the work area and the room on the end is the kitchen. Feel free to take anything you’d like… or I can cook something if you prefer… I really don’t have much on my agenda at the moment besides calling Tim back.” At that, she finally smirked slightly, showing at least a little humor in the situation.

Ditch raised an eyebrow as Rose’s voice softened with sadness. What had she done to provoke that? Admittedly, she’d never been the best with emotions. Ditch focused on her words. Oh. It quickly made sense, obviously Melrose had lost those she cared for. It was a common thing, in this business. A terrible thing at that.

“I’m not as fortunate as you’re making it out to be,” Ditch said, her smile never seeming to fade. “I’ve got a strange predicament on my hands. You’ll find it very hard to protect those you love when they can no longer love you back.” She cast her gaze to the floor for a moment before looking back at the young woman. “But I don’t mind it.. it’s good to have something that keeps me from going mad. I admire people who go on with their lives even when they have nothing left to live for. Perhaps except revenge.”

A grin spread across Ditch’s face at Melrose’s little joke. “I appreciate that you’re taking renovating the place into your hands.” She said with a nod. “And I’m glad you decided to keep the stage.”

Rose snorted softly and gave Ditch a particular look. “Well… I guess we have that bit in common… in a sense anyways. Though I do think you’ve misunderstood that part - I never really ‘lost’ anyone.. even when my father passed, I didn’t know the man. The thing is…” She paused, taking in a breath, as if it wasn’t the most pleasant thing to say. “I never really HAD anyone. Losing people.. would’ve been preferable.. at least then I would have had happy memories to fall back on. Instead, it’s just been… me.” Melrose shrugged half-heartedly. “But what can you do? … but, yeah, I thought about removing the stage,” she admitted, “but it seemed like maybe if I kept it - it’d keep the original spirit alive. I suppose I enjoyed that thought..” She smiled softly, swinging her legs just a tad in her chair.

“Losing people is not preferable.” Ditch said sharply, demeanor suddenly changing. She was visibly more tense as she shook her head. “Don’t.. wish to lose people. Ever. No matter if it’s only because you wished to have them in the first place. I suppose you think it would’ve better to feel something; but you can’t possibly realize how much more it hurts.” She was becoming bitter as she spoke, though after the rant was over, Ditch paused, inhaling and stopping herself from getting any angrier. “You still have time to 'know' people anyhow. The world isn’t ending quite yet.”

“It’s sad to see how horribly the place deteriorated,” Ditch admitted. “It used to be so colorful. But we’ll make it feel like home. It’s a great part of why I chose the place.” Ditch tilted her head. “That, and the place is basically empty. I hope your contractors don’t make too much of a ruckus, though. We don’t need any unwanted attention.”

She paused in her tracks as soon as Ditch snapped. She listened intently, pursing her lips and nodding. Letting her finish, she felt it was best to address the noise concern first. “Well, Tim is used to working for me… he knows by now to be… discreet. They normally do off site cutting and such and make as little noise as possible.” Rose stopped for a moment then and let out a short breath. “I didn’t mean to hit a nerve, by the way… and I’m not really good at words sometimes, so I apologize… it’s not that I wished to lose someone - what I TRULY want is for someone to actually stay in my life and love me for being me. THAT’S what I want… and I suppose I say I haven’t had anyone is because everyone abandons me. I guess that’s the same as people leaving you… I mean… even if I got a ‘friend,’ they would only leave me a year later. For whatever reason.” She looked sullen over the whole matter. “I’m not saying what I’ve been through has been worse - this isn’t a competition, after all, but it’s not very often people really understand being completely alone. It’s gotten to the point where you can say there’s time all day long, that I’m young, I still have time… but after twenty-three years of being left every single time - it’s sort of hard to believe.” She reached up to twirl her hair in her finger for a bit. “Doesn’t mean I’ll push it away if it comes though… just… hard… ugh, sorry.” Rose shook her head and dropped her hands in her lap. “I don’t normally rant to strangers about this sort of thing - I really am sorry.”

“Don’t apologize,” Ditch mumbled. “You’re fine. We’ve all got feelings upon feelings stacked up inside us.. the best thing you can do is let them all fall out. It makes you feel lighter.” Ditch shook her head, crossing her arms again. “I do hope this team I’m putting together can be more than just a crime-fighting gang. We’re all used to working alone.. perhaps it’s time to change that.”

“People come and go.. it’s the way life works. Nothing stays forever, and loyal friends are one in a million. That doesn’t mean it’s your fault, though. Remind yourself of that from time to time.”

“Yeah..” she replied softly and gave a sad smile to that. “Yeah, I know it isn’t.. I suppose I’m just sorry that venting to you, opened up your own wounds.” Rose brushed her hair back and reached across her desk, pulling another rolling chair around it. “Go ahead and sit if you want - no need to stand there and look cool all day,” she teased softly again, smirking. “At least, not in my home anyways… I mean, really, you’re the first person to have visited it after being completed.” She relaxed back into her own chair. “I’m all for making this more than just a gang.. a ragtag group of individualistic heroes.. but regardless of what happens, I’ve always been willing to work with others. I’ll stay on for as long you need or want me.”

Rose looked back at her computer for a few moments and then back to Ditch, considering and thinking to herself before suddenly the thoughtful expression formed into donning a serious, but lighthearted expression. “So… there was something I wanted to correct you on - and probably should do with the others when I have the chance. Accelerated mind? That was amazingly close to what my actual powers are… but it’s not entirely accurate.” She only paused, not for dramatic effect, but out of curiousity of Ditch’s reaction. Rose was curious how often Ditch was actually wrong about something. “I’ve done some thinking and researching and the best actual titles for what my powers do is, adaptable prediction & intuitive aptitude. I figure most people might get confused by that though… essentially, I can interpret body language regarding movement which allows me to predict things like attacks even from the movement of the eyes. The other, more interesting, power of mine allows me to fully understand any subject - including powers… chances are, I probably know Levi’s powers better than he does now.” Rosey gave the hacker a smile. “So.. if you don’t want me to find yours out, I’d suggest not using them around me… but I promise even if I do, I won’t say anything. It’s obviously a secret and it’s not mine to share.. just be aware, is all.” She had given Ditch a gentle, friendly tone, trying her best to not sound arrogant or offensive in any way, giving off a genuine feeling about what she had said.

Ditch gave a small laugh as she sat down, crossing her legs and resting her gaze back on Rose again. “I’m glad I have your support. And you have a very nice home.”

Ditch raised an eyebrow as Rose began to correct her on her own abilities. “Interesting.” Ditch mumbled, adjusting her glasses and leaning back in the chair. “A useful power. Certainly not flashy.. but helpful for sure. If you haven’t picked who you want to go after yet, I might suggest Walker. He’s slippery; he’ll run for sure. We’ll need people who can think quick if we want to catch him at all.”

Ditch spun in the chair with a small grin on her face as she chose her next words. “Who says I’ve got powers anywho?”

Melrose was already feeling better, the smile on her face reflecting that as she leaned over her desk a little to prop her elbow on it. “Yeah.. I had considered that,” she replies causally. “I suppose one of these days you’ll stop being so secretive,” she added with a slight smirk. “As for the group - yeah, that might be a better choice. With my powers, I’d be good with either, but at least I don’t risk being squashed like a bug with the walker.” She pondered it for a few more moments. “Though my powers overall are more useful in preparation after I already know their weaknesses - but I have an idea to electrify the walls with something. I imagine, in theory, he spaces out his molecules or stops the attraction of atoms to allow space to form through objects. Electricity would excite his atoms regardless of form… if we’re lucky, it’ll stop him completely from exiting whichever building we catch him in - assuming we do, that is.”

Looking right at Ditch though, she offered a more gentle smile. “To be honest though, you really are smarter than I am. Before my power awakened, I didn’t know how to do a fraction of the things you can… I mean, I’m intelligent.. so I can take advantage of the knowledge given me.. but I’ve no doubt it’d be more useful in your hands if something like that was possible.”

“Perhaps,” Ditch said, drumming her fingers on her thigh, in response to Rose considering the option of her stopping to be so secretive. “Yes, Scarlet is much more volatile than Walker. That’s why it’s best if the heavy hitters of the group go after her. Walker is quick, smart.. I think even if you don't have time to plan, you’ll be a big help. And that’s an interesting plan already. When we regroup next, please be sure to share it.” Ditch gave Rose a smile.

“Oh.. I’ve just.. been training myself for a long time. And as a kid I had a lot of time on my hands to teach myself whatever I wanted.” Ditch shrugged. “You’re perfectly smart. And I guess I just look smarter than I am. It comes with the job. I have to look smart.”

“I think I should be heading out now.. but I enjoyed this talk. If you ever need to find me, wander around HQ for a while, or you know, try to find info on me again.” Ditch gave a nod. “And if you need to vent, by all means, try to hack my stuff.” She laughed.

“Look smarter than you are?” She scoffed amusingly. “Suuure, if you say so,” she teased, still leaning forward on her elbow. “But yeah.. I’ll share the idea.. should probably explain my powers too.. but didn’t seem important last night..” She sighs softly. “I actually enjoyed the chat too… but now that you’ve given me permission, I might try and send you texts every time I want to talk now,” she grinned playfully. “... have a good day, Ditch - someday I’ll be able to use your real name.” Rose smirked.

“It’s perfectly important, and you could’ve said it then too. Your abilities are important, otherwise you wouldn’t have been there today.” Ditch insisted. “Heh.. I don’t guarantee a response, you’ve been warned. Though I basically hack all day, I do prefer to speak in person.”

Ditch moved towards the stairs, but pausing before she started to climb them. She bit her lip, looking to be mulling something over, before looking back at Rose once more. “Kendall. Name’s Kendall.” She gave a casual two-fingered salute, and with that, she left the room.

Having followed Ditch to the stairway, like a polite host should, she tilted her head at first - curious why she had paused. Then suddenly she knew her name and even after Kendall had left, she stood there, really going over what it must’ve meant for her to share her name so quickly. Rose had been teasing her mostly since she could tell how much that secrecy meant to Ditch, but she never expected to actually get something so personal already.

She quietly walked back to her room with a small grin, biting at her lower lip. It wasn’t very often she felt a ‘connection’ with someone… it was actually a bit scary, but it made her smile anyways. She had really enjoyed Ditch’s company - Kendall’s company.

Jason Graves arrived back at his home very late, or very very early, depending on your point of view. He waved to a neighbor just getting on his bike to leave for work, quickly unlocking the door to his apartment and heading inside. The young man sighed as he saw the TV in the living room still on, his father staring blankly at the screen. The old man had never been the same since momma had died, he thought. And who could blame him? His son was a failure, his wife had been killed, the country he'd hoped would save them had destroyed them; and his daughter?

Well, their father hadn't put as much faith in Emma as he had Jason. Shoving his bandanna into his pocket, Jason sighed again and headed for his small room, stopping to dump a few crickets into his gecko's tank in the kitchen first. "Where the hell have you been, jackass?" A voice behind him hissed, startling him and causing him to whip around.

Jason stared down at his sister, surprised by the fire in her eyes. The blonde bombshell stood shorter than him at only five foot seven, but with eyes like that it was enough to make anyone feel small. She had dark bags under her eyes, the only blemish on an otherwise perfect face, and a sign to the young man that she'd stayed up waiting for him to get home. "Emma, what are you doing up?" He asked, not bothering to lower his voice. Dad wouldn't care anyway.

"Waiting for you, jerk! I thought something had happened, I thought... I thought you were gone. I've been calling hospitals all night." Her voice was shaking now, and he could see tears forming in her eyes. Jason grasped her by her shoulders and looked at her, smiling slightly.

"Emma, it's okay. I'm fine, see? It's been a long night. I met Ditch." He laughed at the shocked expression on her face and continued. "Yes, that Ditch. She's putting together a team, people like me who hide in the shadows and work behind the scenes. We're going to keep this city safe, one way or another. I'm going to finally be able to do something more than take calls from crackheads squeezing money out of the IRS, I can actually do something. This will be so good, for you and me and dad. I promise you, everything will get better."

Emma chewed on her lip, caught between looking concerned and happy. "Jason, that's amazing. And I'm so happy for you, I am. I just... I know it's dangerous out there. And I know that... People don't come home sometimes. You and I know that better than most. Are you sure I can't help you? Watch your back, keep you safe?"

"You can't." Jason said, more sharply than he intended. "It's not safe for you. I can take a hit, you... No. I'm not going to drag you out there and lose you. This city kills people like me, and I'm not going to take you with me when I go. You need to make your own way, calming protesters and helping charities. Speaking of which, aren't you doing both of those things tomorrow?"

"That's part of why I'm pissed off, Jay! I need to be out of here in like, six hours and you kept me up all night worrying! Just... Give me a call next time, okay?"

Jason nodded and gave his sister a hug before parting ways, promising her that he would keep her updated in the future.



Footsteps, thundering in a marching herd. Shouting voices, rising up in a chant. Emotion merging together and growing in fervor to feed back to its owners. That was the scene that greeted anyone within the vicinity of Vale Street as protestors took to the streets, bundled up for the weather but stubbornly wielding picket signs and calling out. There was a small police presence to keep things in order and a news van to cover it – most likely hoping blood. The latter was the only reason Zoey wasn’t already down there.

At heart, Zoey was a worrier. It was what brought her to Racket Avenue just as the sun was setting last night, and what brought her to Vale Street just hours after the sun rose again in the morning. Like a gargoyle she perched high above the streets, submerged in shadows as she kept an eye on the protests below. It had started out innocently enough as the first of the activists showed up in front of the worn down Vale Street Apartments, but time and more protesters showing up began to add fuel under a once small fire to set it ablaze. At this rate they may save Zoey some demo bills and take down the building for her. Yet…

Her mask was heavy in her pocket. The only true part of Reaper’s costume was concealing herself, and so the balaclava found itself in the back pocket of her slacks as she continued to watch. Yet Reaper showing up to a protest, to stop civilians? Zoey wouldn’t be able to raise a finger to them other than to warn them off, and even then was a risk. A darkness elemental showing up to protect KaRe Co.’s interests would definitely raise some alarms ringing back home.

Really, how bad could a public appearance be? She may be young but Zoey was now the captain of this ship, so to speak. The thought bolstered the redhead and sent shadows swirling around her legs, and within an instant she had her cellphone out calling Jasper. The limo would be nearby in just a moment. The vigilante spared one last glance down below before turning and walking into the shadows that took over her being.

It took only a moment to find Jasper and meet her from an empty alley, gaining a few glances at the snazzy ride. Feigning coming out of one of the nearby stores was child’s play however and she was soon in the back, fixing her dress shirt and smoothing out the cuffs of her jacket.

“Are you sure about this, Miss Kasimir? Your intentions are good, however-“

“How hard can it be?” Zoey interrupted Jasper quickly, flashing her a confident smirk. “They’re people just like you and I. People can be reasoned with, and I’d like to talk to those who oppose Kasimir Realty so fiercely.”

“… but a mob can’t be reasoned.” Jasper muttered under her breath. If Zoey heard, she ignored it. She was a vigilante, someone for the people. She couldn’t just shy away.

It took only a moment to get to the protest, the limo causing a small increase in noise outside. Jasper adjusted her mirror to glance back to her boss, and friend.

“Would you like me to come with you?”

“No, I’ll be fine. How do I look?”

“Presentable.”

“Perfect.” The limo stopped. Zoey took a breath and motioned Jasper to stay in the car. The instant the door opened the wall of noise hit her, but calling on training had Zoey standing up and calmly shutting the door behind her before focusing on those in front of her with a charming grin. The reporter hustled to the front, and Zoey found a microphone shoved to her face.

“Zoey Kasimir, CEO of Kasimir Realty-“

“KaRe.” Zoey offered the abbreviation smoothly. The reporter certainly didn’t.

“Why arrive at this protest specifically? What do you have to say to these people?” Alright, this is what her father had helped her with. Image is everything. Coming off confident, with a grin and smoothness dripping from her painted lips was the method.

“I-“

“Why do you hate the poor?!” The ridiculousness of the statement caught Zoey off guard briefly. It certainly wasn’t something you’d hear at a press conference. Then again, at those her answers were well rehearsed anyway. She barely bit her tongue on the ‘what’ as her eyes roamed across the people gathered, a sudden influx of sound roaring up at the man’s called out words.

“I certainly don’t-“

“This was the only place my family could afford!”

“Are you that greedy?!” Okay, dial that back a bit. These people were more out for blood than anything. Zoey could almost feel Jasper face palming in the limo behind her.

“The previous owner-“

“Who cares?!”

The reporter was just eating this up. Zoey tried not to glare at her as she felt a ripple of anger course through her and settle in the pit of her stomach, watching how the cameraman panned the camera to all the glaring faces. Her father’s temper. She had to bite down intensely on her tongue to stop her shadow from beginning to wisp, taking a deep breath.

"KaRe of course cares about your needs. That's why we're building another apartment building here."

"Yeah, apartments for people like you!"

"... I've never rented an apartment." Confusion, brows furrowed. Zoey honestly had no idea what they meant. It was that one statement, innocent though it was to Zoey, that set the crowd howling for blood.



High above the city an impressive figure glided on wind currents and warm updrafts. Emma Graves floated in the air, eyes closed as she breathed deep the essence of the city. The protests for Vale Apartments had started, and she needed to get down there, but this... She needed her safe space first, to center herself and make sure she was ready. This was by no means her first public appearance, the news stations had already taken to calling her Angel. However, between her worry and lack of sleep last night, and the talks about the anger of the crowd today, she needed to be calm. After a few moments, her eyes snapped open and she smiled.

Angel looked down at the city far below, and tucked her wings against her body. She began to fall, slowly at first but rapidly picking up speed. She wanted to make an entrance, and this was the best way she knew how. She rocketed towards the ground, aiming herself for the streets in front of Vale. At the last possible moment, only a few hundred feet above the ground, she opened her wings again, spread wide to slow her descent. These days the city had no shortage of flying supers, but she was different. With a thirty foot wingspan of radiant white, she drew attention to herself immediately. And she could already see heads turning in her direction as she came in for her landing, feet touching the ground gently as she shook her wings.

The superhero dressed in gold and silver smiled at the gathered crowd, already feeling power pour from her. The tensions were high, and this place needed peace. And Angel was the best in the business when it came to peace. She folded her wing to herself ad began to make her way through the crowd, laying hands here and there to some of the more angry protesters. The news crew was speaking to someone at the front of the crowd, and Angel knew that was where she would be needed. She could feel the change in the crowd behind her, they were still angry, but more calm about it. Willing to listen, and to speak instead of rushing to accuse or hurt. She made her way to the front and stood still for a moment, surprised by the sight. There in front of her was the famous Zoey Kasimir, head of KaRE; the new owners of the building. She hadn't expected to see the young billionaire here. Much less getting attacked verbally by an angry reporter looking for a scoop and figureheads of the protest giving her exactly what she wanted.

Angel reached out towards the group, feeling her peaceful aura radiate off of her to everyone around. She stepped forward and cleared her throat, thankful for not the first time that her helmet obscured the upper half of her face. It wouldn't do to be found out for who she was, some nobody from the slums with delusions of grandeur. "Excuse me, if I may interject for just a moment?" She said, her melodious voice drifting on the wind. "I am called Angel, and it seems some help is needed here. Please everyone, just calm down for a moment, and let us talk about this. I'm sure Miss Kasimir is a reasonable businesswoman, and will listen carefully to your concerns, just as you fine people are all equally reasonable and would listen to her reasonings for purchasing this property and her future plans for it?"

’Oh, wow.’ Zoey wasn’t blind, at least not physically. It was hard to miss the descending figure, the sweep of shadow over the crowd from their landing sending a thrill through the darkness elemental. As this powerful woman, all towering wings and gleaming armor stopped in front of Zoey she couldn’t help but stand up just the tad bit straighter even as her muscled seemed to relax. This is exactly what she needed. A calming breath, unraveling her twisted tongue – which admittedly wasn’t all from the crowd-, and her confident smile back in place.

“Why thank you, Miss Angel,” The redhead began smoothly, flicking her head to send some strands back. It was nice not being immediately interrupted. Her eyes darted to the side for a moment, recalling the information Jasper had given her last night before focusing back on Angel and the crowd behind her. The cameraman was eating it up. “As I’m sure some of you may know, one of KaRe’s main focuses is taking older buildings and restoring them. This one in particular has been closed down for nearly two years – we merely took it off the previous owner’s hands recently. The building has been condemned, and so KaRe is dedicated to rebuilding in its place. Housing is, of course a concern, which is why another apartment building will be taking its place.”

Angel nodded as the situation seemed to begin resolving itself, smiling to herself. She could feel the energy of the crowd settling down, everyone leaning closer to listen and not to accuse. The protest seemed to be going smoothly, though she couldn't help but feel slightly guilty for not defending the people more. She was afraid that these new apartments would drive the poor out of this area even further, only adding to the problems the city had. But she had a duty, and she couldn't choose sides. Perhaps she could talk to Miss Kasimir about the building after this was all said and done. After all, the businesswoman probably owed her one for defusing the situation for her.

“… And I realize one of the main problems is that families need homes, but KaRe is all about quality! There won’t be anymore issues in this building from flooding, or heating breaking down in the long winter months!” That had happened to Zoey once. It took the repair guy almost an hour to fix it.For right now however she was all charming smile and smooth voice, taking the time to look over the crowd. It was just like she was taught about public speaking – even if her eyes couldn’t help but linger on the blonde in front of her at times. It was kind of hard to ignore. Luckily between the heavenly figure and Zoey’s own in-built charm, even if it did come briefly off the rails, things were beginning to settle down.

“And what about price gouging, Miss Kasimir?” Blue-grey eyes flicked to the reporter, obviously looking for something noteworthy to end on after her blood bath had calmed.

“We’re all people here, Miss, and I’m sure my realtors know there are people who need homes in this city.”

Angel sighed at the mention of realtors. Miss Kasimir seemed to have no intent on taking a guiding hand in the development of the new building; but what could anyone expect? She was very busy, and had to delegate something. Though... If she took a personal interest today, perhaps there was a chance. Angel stood around for a few more moments, spreading her calming presence through the crowd as the interview came to an end and the people began to disperse. Angel took a few steps forward, hoping to portray an air of confidence to the rich young lady.

"Hello there, Miss Kasimir, is it? As I mentioned before, my name is Angel. I was hoping to talk to you about the state of this building, and the future you have planned for it. Away from prying ears, of course. A strictly off-the-record conversation."

The relieved sigh that was exiting Zoey’s lips halted half through as she glanced up on the shadow falling over her, realizing quickly she overshot the mark and tilting her head back down to look upon Angel. Even under all that armor it wasn’t hard to tell that the woman was beautiful, and though she’d never admit it the fact did open Zoey a bit more to her words. Not that she was closed off after, well, after what was nearly a PR disaster.

“Please, call me Zoey. I can’t be much older than you.” The redhead gave her best charming grin, all teeth and curling lips. “If that’s what you wish then I’d be happy to accommodate you.” Could she? Did she have the courage to really ask this woman in all her gleaming armor and angelic appearance?

Well, Zoey was no DNB.

“It’s still a bit crowded here however, maybe you could join me for lunch?”

Angel smiled and nodded, bowing her head gracefully. "I would love to accept your offer, Zoey, but only after getting your promise that my face is safe with you. I'd rather not go out in costume, after all, people like me tend to get mobbed. And yourself, I suppose." After receiving the other woman's word, Angel asked her to wait for just a moment, disappearing into a nearby alley and glancing around to make sure nobody was watching. After concentrating for a moment, she felt the power drain away from her, knowing from experience that her wings and armor were fading away into nothingness. A scant moment later Emma Graves adjusted her white blouse and ran a hand through her long hair, making sure she looked presentable. Then she began walking back, rounding the corner and making eye contact with Zoey. "Hello again." She began, sticking out her hand for Zoey to shake. "I feel a bit more comfortable now. Still going by Angel though, a lady has to have some secrets, right?" She asked with a wink.

Zoey looked up from leaning against her limo, having been whispering urgently with the butler in the front seat. However the conversation died the instant she glanced up and found the woman’s eyes on her, no longer blocked by the silver and gold helmet. The redhead’s lips parted and she quickly straightened up, her long fingers finding Angel’s to grasp her hand in a firm handshake. The wink only made her laugh, feeling some heat raising in her face.

“I can certainly understand the need for secrecy, Miss Angel. I assure you that you’re safe with me.” A wave of her hand had Jasper staying in the car, not that the butler felt the need to interrupt. Zoey took a few steps back and hooked her fingers into the handle of the limo door to open, bowing at the waist slightly and gesturing inside. “Jasper knows all the top rated restaurants around the area, unless you have somewhere specific you’d like to go?”

Emma smiled and climbed inside the limo, barely able to contain her excitement. She had never been inside a limo before, and this... This was like the most plush apartment she had ever seen, and it was on wheels! She turned back to her gracious host and smiled widely. "Oh, I'm open to suggestions, Zoey! If we want to have a chat, probably somewhere nice and private, but wherever you want go!"

She looked into the front seat at the chauffeur, expecting to see a dour old man with a name like 'Jasper' but somewhat shocked to see a rather attractive younger woman. She smiled up at the driver and scooted closer, extending her hand. "I'm sorry, we weren't introduced. I'm Angel, and I presume you're Jasper?"

It said something of Jasper that she didn't react at all oddly to the girl's action other than the slightest quirk of her brow. However manners had her turning to extend her hand over the seat and grasp Angel's in a firm grip with a short nod.

"Alice Jasper. Miss Kasimir's personal assistant. My pleasure."

"And best in the business." Zoey boasted loudly, wide grin directed to the butler. It could be said Zoey was Jasper's number one cheerleader, and it would not at all be untrue. "Speaking of which, do you know a place we can go for a quiet bite?"

"Of course, Miss Kasimir. Miss Angel." One brief nod and Jasper's eyes returned to the front as she started the limo, a purr running through the frame before settling into a ride reminiscent of a cloud. It didn't take long for Zoey's gaze to find Angel's once more, her actually leaning in and whispering.

"Thanks by the way, Jasper's much more than just some servant."

Emma laughed and shook her head, melting back into the plush seats and sighing contentedly. "Oh, even if Jasper weren't obviously important to you, she wouldn't be 'just some servant'! Everyone is valuable as a person, nobody deserves to be put aside or ignored. Though I should hope I don't have to tell you that. Thank you by the way, for inviting me into this amazing ride, I've never actually been in a limo before!"

A brief look of surprise crossed Zoey's features, soon smoothed out as she tried to find her tongue and leaned back into her own seat, crossing one leg. "No, you don't have to tell me that. No one should be tossed aside when it's inconvenient." Her brows furrowed, a small grimace crossing her face before returning to the charming smile. "And you're welcome, but I would have assumed you've been in plenty - you are quite attractive, Miss Angel. I wouldn't be surprised if you were a rising movie star."

Emma gave a hearty laugh at that and brushed her hair out of her face, shaking her head. "Oh, no no no! Nothing like that, Zoey. I just got lucky with genetics, I suppose. Though if I can share a secret with you, I would love to be an actress one day." She smiled shyly before clearing her throat. "But, until that pipe dream comes along, I have a city to help protect. Maybe not by fighting and catching criminals like some, but by keeping the peace and trying to smooth over conflict."

"Speaking of..." She said, biting her lip lightly as she turned the conversation. "Though I am having the time of my life just shooting the breeze with you, I think we'd both enjoy it more if we got the business out of the way first, don't you think? Or would you rather wait? As your guest for lunch, I'll leave that up to you."

Zoey merely bowed her head in acknowledgement, raising a hand to knock against the tinted window beside her. "The inside of these walls are completely secure, if you wish to discuss it. I was planning on waiting until we arrived, but if you wish to get it out of the way first I shall of course be accommodating. I do owe you, after all." Despite her words Zoey couldn't help but sigh a bit, sinking back a bit more into the comfortable seats and eyes moving to look to the sunroof. "I do assure you I wasn't lying about what I said either, by the way. KaRe's plan has always been to demo the building but build a better one in its place - still apartments."

Emma nodded and leaned forward, knitting her fingers together as a solemn look spread across her picturesque face. "I have no doubt that everything you said is true, as far as you know. You seem like a very intelligent woman, and I doubt either you... Or Jasper would allow one of your companies to take advantage of you." She said, taking a guess as to one of the driver's other roles. "However, I do have... Concerns. Namely, the price point of the apartments. They were originally intended to be low-income housing, a place for people to go who couldn't afford anything else. I think the concern among residents of the neighborhood is what change in rent there will be with the new building, as well as how it will affect the neighborhood as a whole."

"Now, I am in great favor of providing a good quality of life to each and every citizen of this city, nobody should have to worry about where they will sleep at night or if they'll have an oven to cook dinner in." Emma continued, her eyes meeting Zoey's with a look of concern. "However, there is a fine line between what can be provided and what can be afforded, and that line is drawn by the realtors of KaRE, and ultimately yourself. I think what that man at the rally was trying to say was not that you yourself, or others who share your wealth would live in those apartments, but that the people who desperately needs homes would be unable to afford them. That even the people who currently do have homes in the area would see their own rent go up with the rise of a new building with higher rent, that the stores there would begin charging more, and that the people who live paycheck to paycheck in these run-down hovels would lose even that." There was an earnestness to Emma's voice now, a quiver that wasn't there before. She had seen it happen before, the buildup of a neighborhood to the point where people who had lived there for years couldn't afford bread anymore, and wound up sleeping under bridges.

"I want to impress upon you again Zoey, that I do not think you or your company would ever, EVER do something like that intentionally, run innocent people away from the only home they can afford." Emma said, reaching out to take Miss Kasimir's hand as she began to finish her speech. "But what I am saying is that you have a chance here, a chance to do something different. Something better. By cutting your profit margin just a little bit on the rent of this new building, the people who need homes will be able to afford one, and your building, which would be the cleanest and most well-equipped apartment building there in here will be bustling with families. That could encourage other landlords, other companies to improve their buildings as well; competition drives business. Within a few years, you; Zoey Kasimir could be responsible for Vale Street thriving, becoming a place where the good people of this city can come to better themselves, to give themselves another chance at life."

Emma smiled and squeezed Zoey's hand a bit. "I know it's a lot to take in, and you'll need to consider everything I've said before making a decision... But what do you think?"

“I…” Zoey’s voice faltered in her throat, not something she was used to. Her hand remained rather still in Emma’s own, her blue-gray eyes darting away from Emma’s own. She had kept her gaze level the entire time she spoke, but now that the ball was in her court she couldn’t find herself able to look at the bombshell that just before she couldn’t be paid to look away from. Angel was certainly passionate about what she believed in, and more than that? It made a lot of sense. Zoey had a lot of pride, it was hard for her to admit that she was perhaps not the most down to earth person considering her family’s wealth – her wealth, now. Reaper could roam the streets every night and not make as much impact to common folk, those not being robbed and murdered, as she could without the mask in this moment.

The mask. It seemed ten times heavier in her pocket now, a mocking reminder. How could she go out playing vigilante anyway if she was the cause of much of the homeless she passed? It was hard to wrap her mind around not being able to afford rent – at living ‘pay check to pay check’, but Emma seemed so sincere that it could happen so easily. Some protector of the people she was. Just like her father before her – talk a big game, but profits ultimately came first. Zoey couldn’t help but huff through her nose, fingers unintentionally curling to squeeze around Emma’s. The warmth finally drew the redhead to bring her gaze level with Emma’s, her sharp features hard and jaw tense, mouth set firm.

“I will never let someone suffer if I can help it,” She stated plainly, but the conviction set and fierce. There was so much more she wanted to say, plans already spinning around in her mind – she was sure Jasper could pull figures on everything for her, even if admittedly Zoey might not think much of the numbers – but that’s what it boiled down to. It was the reason she first picked up her night job, after all.

Emma smiled, biting the corner of her lip as tears of happiness filled her eyes. This was a huge victory in and of itself, hearing those simple words from one of the city's most powerful women. Angel had done something, something good. Had made a difference, changed the course of fate. She took Zoey's hand in both of her own now, enveloping it and squeezing gently. "Thank you, Zoey Kasimir. Thank you so much. Even just considering this, I don't think you know... How much that means to me. How much that could potentially mean to this entire city. This here, starting with you, could be the change we all need, the change that makes Millennium City the greatest place on Earth."

Emma paused, wiping at her eyes before giggling to herself. "I-I'm sorry, I don't know why I'm getting so emotional here! I just... You're a better person than I ever though you could be. Thank you, Zoey." Her gaze drifted just past the young billionaire to the drivers seat, to the woman she suspected had a strong influence on the character of this young girl. "Thank you." She said again, more to Jasper than to Zoey this time.

"Um... But, with that out of the way, we can move on, right? Enjoy the rest of the day?"

"The rest of the day? You're not just joining me for lunch anymore?" A little grin, more relaxed and confident now at the heavy tension began to leave the luxury car. Her mind still buzzed with thoughts, and Zoey wouldn't be surprised if she was distracted throughout their lunch - she was having lunch with her still! "Not that I'm complaining, mind you." Beneath them the limo slowed to a purr, the engine quietening. Zoey honestly wouldn't be surprised if they had been there a lot longer than just now, circling the block - Jasper was awfully good at what she did. Zoey took a moment to glance at Emma's face, making sure the other woman didn't seem to be tearing up anymore before opening the door to exit, offering her hand to the shorter woman. At her back was a steakhouse, a very fine dining establishment that absolutely reeked with class. An american classic.

"Well... Let's see how lunch goes. Though if it's anything like the rest of our encounter has been, I think I'd like to spend the rest of the day with you, if that's alright." Emma said coyly, taking the offered hand. Before she got out of the limo entirely she turned and looked at Jasper again, smiling warmly. "Thank you Jasper, the ride was lovely. And your sense of timing is impeccable." She winked and stepped out of the limo, gasping a bit as she recognized the place Zoey had taken her. She had only ever been here once, years and years ago after Jason won a big game for his baseball team. Dad had been so proud, and had brought the family here to celebrate. They'd lived on ramen for the rest of the month, but that night had been amazing. She covered her mouth with her free hand and turned to Zoey. "Oh, no no Zoey, this... This place would be amazing, but I can't afford this!" She said, her voice muffled by her hand.

It took Zoey a moment of furrowed brows and puzzlement before Emma's words sunk in, and when they did she couldn’t help but chuckle lowly.

“I don’t think anyone’s ever offered to pay when I’ve taken them out, Miss Angel. It’s very sweet, but I’m the one who invited you – I’ll be paying. I insist.” The last part was added on firmly, “Consider it… a celebration.” Zoey paused a moment, raising a finger in a universal gesture of ‘one moment’ and quickly ducked her head back into the limo. Jasper was smirking, just that little bit – oh, so she approved of the little encounter did she? Zoey couldn’t help but grin in return. “And Jasper… set up a meeting for tomorrow with Mr. Wilson. We have some talking to do about properties.”

“Of course, Miss Kasimir.” Zoey withdrew her head and shut the door before turning to Emma, gesturing forward. “Shall we, Miss Angel?”

"We shall, Miss Kasimir." Emma said, linking her arm with Zoey's before leaning in and whispering to her. "And I think you've earned something more than just Angel. My name's Emma. Emma Graves. And it is a true honor to meet someone like you, Zoey."

With that, the blonde and the redhead set for the restaurant, smiling the entire way.