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Genesis
Apr 25, 2005 16:13:56 GMT -5
Post by Theoren Roullier on Apr 25, 2005 16:13:56 GMT -5
[glow=pink,2,300]Chapter Three: The Battle Rages[/glow]
I'm posting this chapter because Jade is lazy... *ducks the incoming sandal*
Hope:
Oh dear, this wasn’t boding well with her already and she’d not uttered a single word. It was enough to see him drop to his knee and bow his head before her….that was enough. Hope wasn’t one to stand on ceremony, that wasn’t the way she worked at all. They were ‘family’. The Peace Angels were family and this unsettled her to begin with, bringing a frown to darken her flawless features.
Stepping on close enough to be able to lean close, to reach out and place a gentle touch to his elbow, urging him to not remain on his knees. She could have revelled in the attention. It was after all a mark of respect. Of one that was to be revered but she was and always saw herself as nothing more than an Angel herself. She didn’t strut nor flaunt her power or stature.
“Oh do get up” she whispered softly.
It didn’t matter either way really, she was already sinking to her knees, to meet him at his own level. So troubled…so young. So much turmoil and she could do nothing else but listen to him while he told her what he felt he had to. There was a long moment of silence as she mulled over what he’d said, and what he actually wanted from her.
“Well Maedryn…” she began. Actually settling to sit upon the floor…had there been one. “Your timing was perfect” she’d not begrudge him her time. It was more than clear that he needed help. Something other than what he knew, what he had. He was so young…he could have been one of her own sons and perhaps this is what made her say what she said next.
“I can try to help you Maedryn but you have to find your own answers, you have to give yourself the clarity you desire. I can tell you there is more than the war, more than the war here anyway.” She’d just left one. Even she had made decisions that affected many, just as he had told her that he had demanded from the council the leave to live among the mortals. Wasn’t that what eve she strived to do now? She could relate so much to what he yearned for.
Rising to her feet, she’d offer a hand as she looked into those golden eyes of his “Walk with me, Angel” she wasn’t one to stay in the same place too long. “We can talk, and perhaps find a little clarity along the way” she was smiling as she waited for him to take another step. “You’ve already done the hard part. You just have to follow through and find what it is you seek. I’ll help you” right there she committed herself to helping the young Angel.
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Genesis
Apr 25, 2005 16:16:59 GMT -5
Post by Theoren Roullier on Apr 25, 2005 16:16:59 GMT -5
Light flared in the darkness as the match head struck the outside of the flip book. The flame at the end of the sulfur stick burned hot as the well dressed man brought it to the end of his cigarette. He inhaled as the tobacco lit up and blew the savory smoke out his nostrils. The sweet stench of the cigarette already filled the room, and the man with the slicked back hair and the handsome cashmere suit leaned back in his chair at his desk in an otherwise empty office to enjoy it. Such simply pleasures, he thought to himself.
From beyond the heavy oaken door directly in his line of sight the pounding throb of tavern noise threatened to invade his personal Elysium. A hint of a smile curled up on the man’s lips as he though of the drunken revelry and total debauchery that was rampant in his establishment. A proverbial paradise of women and beer. Chose your poison, the bartender would say, and they would laugh at the joke. Little did they know. They were his marionettes, and he the great puppeteer who played them upon the stage of life. Worthless, discardable characters in an ongoing Greek tragedy with only one, inevitable ending; Death.
Rising from his chair the man ran his hands down his pants, getting the creases out and picked up the cigarette deftly from the crystal ashtray on the desk. A relaxed gait took him to the door, out into the open of Perdition, the city’s hottest nightclub. There he stood, admiring his handiwork. The thralls of the mortal world cavorting to the pleasures he set before them… utterly unassuming masses of bodies that would, after drinking his beers and sleeping with his consorts, find themselves totally and completely drained of their life essence which he and his staff would happily feast upon. The cigarette met lips and another breath was drawn in, and exhaled in a cloud of sweet smoke.
Ah, mortals. My favorite after dinner treat. I should really watch how much essence I take, it’s going to go straight to my thighs. Not a nod was given or an acknowledgment made to any of the patrons of the wretched brothel he passed off as a nightclub. In fact it was as if no one saw him at all. Like the shadows he always played his games from, he was so fleeting that even in such elegant dress and posture there was nary a soul to care of his comings or goings.
The outside air was cool and seconds after his exit the club door swung shut, dulling the noise from the rabble inside. The handsome business man finally had the space to breathe – and breathe he did, taking in another long, saccharine inhale from the cigarette, blowing it in a spiral into the night air. Eyes remained closed, but a smile began to fade on the face of the most unnatural man as recognition hit him.
The cigarette dropped to the ground and hands clenched around his throat as he felt his knees hit the grass in abnormal silence. “Don’t try to scream, Valefor.” Said the female behind him. A voice like a song… she stole the very air from my body… The woman with the copper curls in the smart white suit smiled as she ran her hand through the demon’s hair. He looked up at her in silence. “I took your voice, and the air you were breathing. And I can take more, if you don’t tell me what I came her to know.” The heel of a white stiletto pressed down on the cigarette, grinding it into the mud.
With a flick of wrist there was a gasp and Valefor felt his lungs fill with air again. Choking and coughing he looked up with a scowl, struggling to one knee. “I have two squads of demons in there, Israfael. You don’t want to do this.” The woman smiled and leaned over to him. Extending her index finger the tip lit up with a flare so white it hurt Valefor to look at it. Pressing it into the side of his face he grimaced and stifled a groan of agony even as she dragged it down the side of his face leaving a streak of charred flesh in its wake. “Don’t tell me what I want to do, Valefor. Because what I want to do to you is far more horrible than what I’m going to do.”<br>
Holding the side of his face and seething in his sweat and frustration, the Impudite snapped “What the hell do you want from me, Israfael? Since when have you been so sadistic?” Israfael stood and folded her arms gracefully over her breasts. “You know Henry, my Touched, don’t you?” Valefor was staggering to his feet, leaning on the wall of the club. “I know of him. He hangs out here. I’m always kicking him off my property. You should take better care of him if you love him so much.” Israfael’s face darkened. “I won’t ever get the chance to, since you killed him.” Valefor looked up with hesitation for a moment, then a small grin.
“So what if I did?”
He never saw it coming as the gust of wind knocked him clear into the side of the building. Dropping to the ground in a heap the demon shook his head and tried to get up. But the wind did that for him too, picking him up off the ground and slamming him into the wall, pinning him a foot off the ground. Israfael sauntered to the wall as Valefor’s face began to turn purple from the strain. “You’re an arrogant jackass, Valefor. An underhanded street thief, but you’re not smart enough, nor do you care enough to have killed Henry.” Valefor held his hands to his chest and gripped his shirt, “All right! All right, I didn’t do it. I swear I don’t know a thing about it.”
Israfael sighed and let him drop. Demons are all alike. They’ll tell you anything to save their pathetic hides, especially the Thieves. “Who did it?” Valefor coughed and turned over to sit with his back against the wall. Loosening his tie he gasped, “I don’t know. Honestly I have no idea. One day he just wasn’t here anymore. Like I cared… he was bad for business and I need essence to run my operations. I can’t say I wasn’t glad he was gone, but I don’t know who did it. I didn’t even know he was dead.” I could call the Djinni right now… but do I want to risk it? Against Israfael? Better save my own ass while I can….
Israfael turned to go. “Go back to your petty delinquency, Valefor. We have no more use for you tonight.” He didn’t move, he only reached into his rumbled suit and pulled out another cigarette. Touching it to the still smoking flesh on the side of his face he lit it and took a deep breath in. So someone offed that crazy war vet and Israfael is out for blood. It’s shaping up to be an interesting day after all!
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Genesis
Apr 25, 2005 16:19:04 GMT -5
Post by Theoren Roullier on Apr 25, 2005 16:19:04 GMT -5
He could see them walking along the edge of the universe from his vantage point. It hurt him to watch Maedryn and Hope. That should be me. Maedryn was practically his son. It hurt him that Maedryn did not understand. Even if he escaped the War, there would be others. There would always be a war to wage. And it was inherent to Maedryn’s character, war and struggle was what he was built for. That was something he could never escape from.
Leaning against the marble pillars in the windows of the monstrous cathedral, Michael folded his great wings behind him and let his silver head loll against the stone. Maedryn would be a great loss to the War, and to the General. And the worst part of all of it was that there was nothing Michael could do. Shouldn’t he be the one counseling the young and wayward angel? He supposed that chance had come and gone, but Maedryn was too young to understand that the only reason Heaven held together was because the rules were obeyed. They were not chaotic and separated like the Pits. Even if they didn’t want to, the superiors here worked together to achieve their goals. And when an edict from the council was passed, everyone followed it.
Of course that did not mean there was no dissention. Sweet Israfael understood. She was the opposing force, the balance within Order, as was Michael. But as a soldier, Michael knew better than to disobey that structure. Sometimes in a war one had to do things one did not want to do because if they did not, the entire machine could malfunction. Maedryn only understood this half way. And now it seemed Michael would never have a chance to try to explain it.
His thoughts scattered as a page clattered through the doorway. “My Lord!” the angel cried, “Forgive me my intrusion but I have urgent news from the Pits!” Michael’s head turned and eyes flashed. From the Pits? “Tell me.”
The parchment fell from the young angel’s hand to the table top. “Ba’als forces are amassing for a strike on a huge military outpost just outside the city tonight Sir. Orders?” Michael’s eyes flew over the page in stark disbelief. What on earth…
“You say this came from the Pits?”<br> “Yessir.”<br> “Who gave it to you?”<br> “A freelance page, Sir.”
Michael frowned. “Whoever it was seems to want to stay anonymous.” There were plenty of free floaters in the Pits right now. When Prince Haagenti had been overthrown and killed by the relatively new Prince of Thieves many servitors were left without masters so they worked as pages running messages to other Princes and to Heaven in order to get in favor with another Prince. Mulling he placed the papers down on the tabled and turned back towards the window, stretching his giant wings.
“Orders, Sir?” The page asked once more, nervously.
Michael smiled deviously. If it was a fight Ba’al wanted, he certainly wasn’t one to hold back on his former disciple. “Assemble three squads. Even if the rumor is false we can spare the troops for it. And if it’s true, well then we’re going to have a little bit of fun tonight, soldier.”
No, one could never escape the War, and for Michael that was just fine.
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Genesis
Apr 25, 2005 16:23:44 GMT -5
Post by Theoren Roullier on Apr 25, 2005 16:23:44 GMT -5
“The squads are ready for departure, Sir!” Despite his hideously deformed appearance the corporal was grinning and saluting. A horrible product of Ba’al’s even more horrible anger, the demon was scarred over his entire face and left arm with claw and burn marks. And he had loved every second of the pain. His master did not look up from the battle map spread over the table in front of him. “Excellent.” The word rolled off Ba’al’s tongue like it was meant there.
“Michael and the rest of those self righteous pricks he calls servitors will never see it coming.” And neither would the United Nations. As soon as those explosives hit hordes of demons would onslaught the joint army facility and decimate it. Ba’al smiled wickedly. Intelligence had reported a concentration of Michael’s forces on that base. They were all about to be wiped clear off the planet.
“Give them a go. I want that whole place flattened by midnight.” The Calabite hissed with deviant pleasure. The Corporal saluted again and turned curtly to carry out the orders, leaving his proud and demented master to revel in his glee.
“Well well, doesn’t it look like I walked in on a party.” Ba’al hadn’t even gotten time enough to light his victory cigar when already there was a shadow darkening his doorstep. Ba’al looked indignant and flicked up his middle finger, flame spurting from it. He lit the cigar and bit, then pointedly folded the finger back in his fist. “What do you want, Asmodae?”
The would-be chess master smiled and stepped into the room putting his hands in his pockets nonchalantly. “Just checking to see how the war fares.” The smile on Asmodae’s face could only be described accurately as ‘shit eating’. Ba’al was suspicious. “It’s going just fine.” Asmodae was not satisfied. “It looks like you’re celebrating a wonderful victory.” Ba’al smiled evilly. “We’re about to crush a good number of Michael’s forces at an outpost by the city. It should be devastating to him. We’ve been planning it for months.” Asmodae feigned being impressed.
“Really? Because word on the channels tonight have been Michael’s already launching a countermeasure.”
Ba’al’s face dropped, the cigar fell from his lips as he stared stunned at his comrade and tentative ally. “W… what?”<br>
Asmodae half sat on the edge of the desk. “Word on the channels is, someone’s been selling your battle plans to the angels.”<br>
Ba’al’s face twisted with rage. He always had been the capricious sort. Asmodae thought with a private smile. “Who would have done this?!” The Prince of War growled, “Who would have dared?!” Asmodae shrugged indifferently. “Who have you had around in here long enough to see them?” Ba’al stopped and stared, thinking to himself. Who could it be? Who even had access… who has been in this room… “Vasago…”
Asmodae perked his eyebrows. “Now that, my friend, is not really a surprise. You know, speaking of Vasago, I just saw him on the outskirts of Gehenna with one of Israfael’s lackeys.” A smirk crossed his face, “Perhaps he’s decided to buy his way into Heaven now that there’s no place for him here.” But Ba’al wasn’t listening any longer. He was beyond the point of sensing anything. That Calabite rage was boiling over and there would be no mercy for his betrayer. Perhaps that was one thing Michael taught him that had stuck- you did not betray your side for your own gratification.
Storming past Asmodae there was a thundering crack heard all over the region of Gehenna as the door to his private office slammed into the wall and shattered. Asmodae clicked his tongue and helped himself to one of Ba’al’s cigars before leaving himself, whistling some old tune, and headed back to Hades.
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Genesis
Apr 25, 2005 16:27:09 GMT -5
Post by Theoren Roullier on Apr 25, 2005 16:27:09 GMT -5
Maedryn nodded and rose to his feet. It’s all he could ask for. And she gave him the answer he had expected. Only he could find the answers. How many times had he been told that? And what about the answers Michael took pains to hide from him? Maedryn tilted his head and looked up at the skies, knowing high above them his master and mentor was looking down on them. Who does he think he is? What right does he have to keep me from the truth about myself? And what is it he thinks he’s protecting me from?
He would walk with her, but that did not make the whispers go away. Maedryn, is it really that hard of a choice? All you’ve ever wanted is the freedom to make your own decisions. That’s why you left the first time. Why follow the decrees of a Council you don’t support, when you can end your suffering with us? Maedryn shook it out of his head. “I don’t feel right up there. Every time I turn around they’re telling me I can’t do something when I know I should. I’m not free to do what I think is right. It’s always the order, the structure, and all that. And I understand that, but at the same time, how can we support something so… machinated?”
Maedryn. Maedryn! It doesn’t have to be that way. You can be free, Maedryn. We’re not evil, per se. We just work outside the bounds of what the Clouds think is right. Don’t look at is as Falling. Look at is as liberation.
“I don’t want to simply follow orders. I don’t want to stagnate. I don’t want to be a part of something so unfeeling.” He winced as he said it, as if maybe Michael had heard him. It was breaking his heart to say such things. “Maybe I just don’t want to believe it’s so unfeeling.” He followed with. That sounded more accurate to him. “I know for someone like me it sounds silly, but I don’t think I want to be a part of this war anymore.”
And you don’t have to my boy! There are things other than the War, son. Many things. You may not remember your past time on the mortal plane but I do. I watched you, and I know what will make you happy. Don’t you want to be happy, Maedryn?
Eyes filled with tears as he tried to shake off the voice. “To be honest with you the… alternative path is looking pretty tempting right now, and I’m just not sure if its right. Even Michael told me, nothing is truly evil. I mean this coming from the guy who cut down Lucifer right? It sounds out there, but if they’re not truly evil… why not consider it? But then how can I leave my post and my side? Loyalty is thicker than thieves.”
Ah, to Hell with them! What have they done for you? Wanna talk about betrayal? How about punishing you and then wiping your memories so you can’t remember it? Now that’s a wound, my friend, that’s something you don’t forgive and forget so easily. We’d never do that to you. You have your own power here…
Maedryn had to stop, holding the side of his head as he resheathed his sword on his belt. “I just don’t know which side to turn to anymore, or where I really belong. And I can’t remember what it’s like outside this context even if I wanted to.” Eyes slid over to Hope for a moment as he tried a more subtle way of gaining the answers he wanted. “I mean, what would you do?”
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Genesis
Apr 28, 2005 16:39:12 GMT -5
Post by Jade-ness on Apr 28, 2005 16:39:12 GMT -5
[glow=pink,2,300]Chapter Four: On the Nature of War[/glow]
Hope:
In a way she knew they were watched from above though she did not cast them a glance as she walked with Maedryn, still listening to him…and the other. She heard him alright though she could not utter a word. Maedryn…he had to deal with his own demons in his own way. As much as she’d have loved to have stepped in to protect such a young and troubled Angel…she could not. Her hands were as tied as Michael’s. Not even the immunity of Neutrality could sway her mind on this. The courtesy’s only ran so far before lines were stepped over.
“There has to be order to all this. Without it there would be chaos” it was obvious really but when one was so confused, even the obvious was hard to see. She knew what it was like to feel as though she didn’t belong. To want something different from the rest. To –be- different from the rest. - Choices had, had to be made all round and most…had caused her much sorrow and pain. However, they had been hers to make and she had not looked back, not once. Not even when half her soul was torn from her when her own little demon cast her away.
“Maybe it just feels as though there is no feeling. Looking for the nature of another’s better judgement, looking for a little leverage is sometimes…” she struggled for a moment. Valefor was offering such sweet things, everything the young one wanted but for reasons Maedryn would soon resent. “Sometimes things have to be done for the better good. The better of two evils. The cause of the many is far greater than the cause of one” even she’d made those decisions before so she understood Michael and why, she empathised with them all.
It wasn’t fair. The Mother within her rebelled against everything, the warrior wanted to serve some serious damage but the Angel, the Peace she strived to keep was her strength right now, if it was all she could give Maedryn, for even a moment it was better than nothing. Smiling as he sheathed his sword and asked her what she would do…she even chuckled and shook her head a little. Oh he was good…but not that good.
“Try something for me?” she asked politely. Reaching out to only touch her fingertips beneath his chin. “Trust in yourself, for just a moment and close your eyes; see for yourself what it is you desire.” His memories may have been wiped but surely he could take back what belonged to him. Even she could, and would dare to go before the Council to demand back what belonged to Maedryn…he had to have something left at least. It was just a minor technicality, in her own mind anyway. “Even if its something from a dream. Something you can recall. Tie your heart and your mind” she knew it wasn’t an easy thing to do but if he trusted in her to remain, trusted in himself to be able to do this one small thing…it was another small step. Her voice was kept low, meant to soothe and reassure. “Small steps Maedryn. See what you need to see”<br> She gave him nothing, only the reassurance that she was there. There was no power, no sneaky, sly inkling to what there was out there other than this…She knew in her heart of hearts he’d see –something- However in that moment of respite from the voices she had to add her own taunt to the voice that called and taunted with such sweet offerings of power, freedom and more…<br> Its been a long time…oh how I’ve missed those dulcet tones. You know how I love it when you talk like that. Such wonderful promises Valefor. I’m almost tempted to succumb myself.
Of course her own taunt was a distraction to allow Maedryn a little silence. Only a little, but Valefor would know that any Angel, least of all a Seraph making way to have words was indeed a knife’s edge he’d not want to balance upon.
The moment was now in Maedryn’s hands. She’d done what she could for him. The way out was clear. She could take him so readily and easily onto the mortal plane, but he had to see it and want it for himself. – This was his choice to make.
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Genesis
Apr 28, 2005 16:39:43 GMT -5
Post by Jade-ness on Apr 28, 2005 16:39:43 GMT -5
The Patchwork Demon sat stirring his drink in amusement. Playing with Maedryn’s head was almost worth it whether he fell or not. And poor little Peaceangel had no idea he was even there. Maybe she and the Host had problems interfering with free will, but he sure as hell didn’t. Sitting with his feet on Haagenti’s old desk and leaning back in his chair, Valefor was enjoying the new luxuries being Prince afforded him. And he was also enjoying the vintage bottle of Chivas Regal he had stolen from Asmodae’s office last time he was there. Thanks for the booze, chump. He chuckled to himself as he whistled a tune and stirred the drink with a toothpick.
He knew his words must have sounded trite to Maedryn, yet as Hope so graciously pointed out, to someone so confused even the most obvious things could sway him. What a precious game they played when a being’s very soul hung in the balance. How ironic that no one even cares what happens to him. Means to an end and all that bologna. Valefor chuckled as he took another long drink of the stolen Regal. He wondered for a few seconds exactly how long it would take for Asmodae to notice it was missing.
When the voice of the Outsider reached him Valefor leaned forwards and spit out the Chivas in mid sip. Looking down with disdain he found he had spewed it all over his beautifully colored patchwork suit. He was very proud of it, the jester’s outfit he had made himself. It was a commoner’s clothes- a thief’s suit. It was a handsome array of all the colors of the rainbow and had earned him the nickname the ‘Patchwork Demon’. And now it was covered in Chivas Regal. How utterly frustrating.
Still, he had to hand it to her. He always gave credit where credit was due when he was bested. Well played, Outsider! He cried in amusement. So the tricky bitch had been listening all along. I’m sure you’ve seen his former life, you know at least I’d be good for his ego, but if you want to have at him, be my guest, Lovely. I’ve said my piece anyhow. He smirked as he brushed the last few drops from the now stained coat and took up his drink again. Oh, but expect a bill from my dry cleaners you little bitch. This was my favorite coat.
Now was the time to sit back and watch, he assumed, listening to the ice clink in the glass. He did what he could for Maedryn. Let’s see what the Angels have to say to him, shall we?
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Genesis
Apr 28, 2005 16:40:23 GMT -5
Post by Jade-ness on Apr 28, 2005 16:40:23 GMT -5
“My Lady? You called for me?” Anale stood nervously in the doorway. She hated being summoned so curtly. It meant something was very wrong and Anale was a sensitive being. She did not take reprimand well. Israfael stood by her window, robes whipping about her as an angry wind blew through Heaven today. “I spoke to Valefor. As I suspected, he doesn’t know anything. Whoever gave you your information set you up.” She said flatly.
Anale’s face dropped. “I… he’s never lied to me before… I… My Lady I can’t apologize enough…” she stammered, tears already welling in her eyes. Israfael turned with a faint smile. “My dearest, he’s a demon. Vasago, isn’t it? He’s a floater. Someone probably got to him first with the promise of a better deal than a few redemption points we’re not even sure he really wants.” Anale shook her head. “But he’s never lied before…” Israfael almost afforded herself a chuckle and took Anale’s face in her hands. “He’s a demon my dear. He lies. I’m not angry at you, I simply want you to go back and find out who did this. I want Henry avenged.”
Anale lifted her eyes to her mentor’s face. Israfael is so beautiful and strong. Someone like Michael or Gabriel would have me punished for this. Israfael’s strength lies in her mercy. Oh what I would do to be like her. She nodded resolutely. “For Henry.” She repeated, though even that thought made her heart sink. The time she’d spent with Henry she adored, playing checkers and go fish on the park bench disguised as a little girl, watching over her homeless charge, talking to him about the war… and the War. At least Israfael took him in and now he’s here with us, and safe. She thought.
“You know what you have to do, Anale.” As Israfael stepped back Anale nodded sharply and took off from the floating church and spiraled out into the brilliant blue. They had talked about this before, Anale stepping up and taking more charge in situations. Her meek Mercurian nature needed some bolstering to do her job. She would get the right answers from Vasago this time. For Henry.
Israfael was left with her thoughts in her floating church. Picking up her violin she caressed the wood and smiled. Playing always cleared her head, though it was always the same tune. It was the song that was everything. And nothing. It simply was. As she played she wondered to herself, why would Vasago lie now to Anale when his lust and desire for her kept him brown nosing up until now? Could it be that he was falling out of love with her? Probably not. But if someone did get to him, who? And more importantly, why?
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Genesis
Apr 28, 2005 16:44:25 GMT -5
Post by Jade-ness on Apr 28, 2005 16:44:25 GMT -5
He hated being summoned. That was the only good that had come from not having a Prince to answer to- he could come and go as he pleased and enjoy a rare albeit very unprotected freedom. Sneering at the sniveling demon in front of him carrying the message, the Calabite looked hungry. “A messssage from above, Vassssago.” It hissed, some pitiful remains of one of Saminga’s experience probably, hideously deformed with only one leg to stand on, the only thing that kept the pathetic lump of flesh upright was the a-rhythmic beating of vestigial wings. It blinked its one eye and handed the parchment over. The wanton urges of destruction inside him got the better of him once again and he raised a hand, slashing it across the creature’s face, then took the summons with a laugh. “Thanks.” He said to the crumpled heap on the ground as he stalked off towards his destination.
She hated the smells down here. Putrid rotting flesh, sulfur, and all sorts of other noxious odors that made her shiver. Sitting on her stalagmite Anale watched Vasago approach warily. “Anale…” He crooned, pleasantly surprised to see her again so soon. “Don’t even start the banter, Vasago. I’m here on business.” She snapped at him, golden eyes narrowing at him with a certain amount of malice she had been working up for the past few minutes. With a smile and a gentlemanly bow Vasago acquiesced. “Very well, my love. What can I do for you today?”
Anale folded her arms and stared hard at the demon, flaring her wings in agitation. “You lied to me.” Vasago pretended to look hurt. “Why would I do that? I’ve never done such a thing to you before.” Anale’s golden eyes flashed with Heaven’s fire for a moment at the thought of Henry lying dead in the snow, but then it subsided for the sake of her sanity. “Valefor was not the one who killed Henry.” Vasago scoffed. “Oh, come on. He had every motive in the world. Add to that the fact that everyone knows he’s a loose cannon and you have a guilty verdict.” The indignation was not appreciated.
“Israfael went to see him and asked him about it.” Vasago had a good chuckle at that. “Oh yes, and I’m sure the Prince of Thieves would be the first in line to be honest with an angel.” Anale smiled knowingly. “Vasago, even you should know, that when talking to a Seraph, you don’t have much of a choice in being honest.” Vasago caught his tongue. He had forgotten about that. Israfael was one of the Truths, angels with the innate ability to sense lies. Not even Valefor could lie to a Seraph. “Look I just report what I’m told.” Anale twirled a piece of wavy golden hair with her index finger. “Then start by telling me who told it to you.”<br>
Vasago started to laugh but then stopped. Not because he wanted to stop, because there was a lump in his throat from the sight before him. Anale, the little Mercurian, was growing claws. Four inch long sickle shaped bones clacked together as she stared ominously at the demon. I could run… I could call some of the Djinni hanging around outside Hades, but then I would owe Asmodae further… and she might catch up. Or send Israfael… “Protection.” He said, gulping down the knot in his throat. “I need protection and I’ll tell you true everything I know.” Anale perked a brow. “I can see what we can do, but no promises. Now tell me.”
“Asmodae called me to his office and told me he would consider taking me as one of his brood if I told you Valefor was the one that killed Israfael’s Touched. I don’t know if it’s true or not, I took the job because I’m desperate for the protection. I’m making enemies and I need a shield. That’s it, that’s all I know, really.” He said, eyes shifting around nervously. Anale rolled her eyes. Demons are SO easy. She thought. “I’ll see what we can do for you. But don’t think for a second anyone pities you for making enemies. You did all of that on your own.” Vasago looked around, uncomfortable. “Talk to her right away… and hurry back.” He said, almost shivering in the warmest place in the world.
As the Angel took off for the portal the figure in the shadows was livid. So it was all true… Vasago was selling him out to the angels for his own gain. There was a snarl from the shadows, and a very angry demon Prince emerged. Vasago turned around in confusion, and then went to drop to a knee, bowing his head. “Lord Ba’al, how may I be of ser-“ Ba’al didn’t listen. His claws connected with Vasago instantly and sheathed themselves in his chest cavity. With a rumblings growl the lesser Calabite was lifted clear off the ground and found himself completely stunned, and hanging from Ba’al’s razor sharp digits.
“You disgusting bottomfeeder.” Ba’als eyes flashed red with insane rage. “I am going to tear you open and leave you for the hell hounds to feast on.” He said, his voice shaking with anger as several glowing eyes appeared behind him. Vasago could hear the smacking of tongues on teeth as the hounds waited impatiently for a meal. Ba’al curled his upper lip and twisted his claws inside Vasago’s lungs, effectively slicing them into ribbons. Vasago screamed in agony. “You betrayed all of us you worthless piece of scum. And now you are going to pay for it.” Vasago’s eyes went wide in horror at the thought as the blood began to run in dark rivers down his eviscerated torso. “Wait… wait you’ve got it all wrong… it wasn’t me!” Ba’al licked some of the blood spatter off Vasago’s cheek and whispered to him “That was the wrong answer.”
The screams were enough to send a chill down the spine of everyone in Gehenna as the snarls of dogs became the tympani for the concerto of pain. No one was out in the open, except for one. The cigarette smoke trailed up the stalactites as a shadowy figure watched as Ba’al fed several unrecognizable body parts to the demonic dogs that scavenged the Pits. “Dinner and a show, hmm?” The voice was too familiar. Ba’al whirled around with fire in his eyes to see who was speaking to him. “Valefor…” He hissed. Not a smart move, thief. I’m ready for round two. Ba’al thought as he advanced on the Patchwork demon. “Easy there big fella. Might not want to turn me into sushi until you hear what I’ve got to say.”<br>
Ba’al was momentarily paused in his tracks. “What, you want to finish your last cigarette?” Ba’al snarled. Valefor chuckled at him. “You killed the wrong guy.” Ba’al grit his teeth. “What do you mean I killed the wrong guy?” Valefor shook his head. “Wasn’t Vasago who sold you out.” Ba’al fists clenched so hard that his nails began to dig into his palms. Valefor’s arrogance, his tone of voice, even the way he smoked his damn cigarette was aggravating. “And I suppose you know who did sell me out.” Valefor just smiled and took another drag. “I sure do. And I’ve got proof.”
Hours later the Prince of War was stomping through the gates of Hades. He was looking for someone, and when he found them, there would be Hell to pay alright. The troops above were being decimated, and Ba’al was going to find out why.
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Genesis
Apr 28, 2005 16:46:18 GMT -5
Post by Jade-ness on Apr 28, 2005 16:46:18 GMT -5
Explosions all around, the ringing of swords on the air. This was what he lived for. The heat of a battle. “Push forward, men! Show them no mercy!” Michael cried as his blade met the neck of one of Ba’al’s men and sliced it clean through. To Night the Night and Day the Day in the presence of God! For Honor! For Glory! VAE VICTUS! He sang to himself. The noise of the battle died for him as he entered his zone. Every sweep of the blade was another demon slain. They would defend this compound to the very last, though somehow Michael didn’t think that would be necessary.
The screams of the enemy were like Israfael’s violin. The rhythm of the swords was the metronome for the music. Sickening as it sounded, Michael knew better than to deny that he loved it. He was a creature of War, and he would always be. His first step in becoming an Archangel had been Israfael helping him to understand the concept of necessary destruction. War had to happen. It had to. And Michael was fine enough being the acting force.
A mortar blew a few feet away and Michael was knocked off balance. An angel went down beside him. Crawling over the rubble and body parts to the fallen comrade in arms, Michael picked up his broken body and cradled it. “Soldier… talk to me.” The angel smiled even as blood began to dribble from his mouth down his cheek. “Don’t worry, Sir. I’ll be alright. It’s just a vessel, just like you always tell us, Sir.” Michael beamed with pride at his servant. “That’s right son, it’s just a vessel.” As the Angel’s eyes rolled to the back of his head he whispered, “See you up top, Sir.” And then he was gone.
Michael knew better than to mourn. Angels lost their vessels in the War all the time. He would get the boy a new one as soon as they got back. But the humans here did not have such a luxury, and it was those innocent souls that Michael was here to protect as best he could. Humans were futile creatures, but still so capable of nobility that they were well worth fighting for. Picking up his sword Michael stood and raised the blade high to strike down yet another foe.
Then there through the crowd Michael recognized one of Ba’al’s primary Lieutenants, scrambling about no doubt having a heart attack over the ambush Michael had set for him. And the Lieutenant spotted Michael as well, but did not recognize him. Why should he? Michael assumed a fairly nondescript form when on the mortal plane. It gave him the element of surprise. Amidst the flying shrapnel and the bodies Michael stood up and sheathed his sword with a grin. The Lieutenant looked incredulous and pulled out a gun. Michael started to walk towards him.
Three rounds fired all centrally located right over where Michael’s heart should have been. But Archangels didn’t need a vessel to take physical form. The Lieutenant’s face froze as Michael continued towards him. In a snap Michael grabbed the demon by the head, and dragged him out from behind the artillery cannon. No amount of flailing or screaming made it stop as more and more pressure was applied to his skull, the demon’s eyes bulged, red and glowing, his teeth, sharp and vile, bared as he clawed and struggled against his capture. And then he was still as Michael’s hands met in the middle, and gooey innards and skull fragments dripped from his forearms.
The feel of the former demon’s brains and spinal cord was savored for a moment before Michael let the body drop to the ground in a headless heap. With blood on his hands and face the Archangel of War could only grin. That felt good. Looking up he realized that the fractured forces of his rival were starting to scatter. Now the battle could come to a close. “Push them back, men! Hold this facility!” He cried over the din. Ah Maedryn if only you could be here.
When all was said and done tonight, Michael knew the angel he appointed as general of this base would have to answer to the public. The masses would want to know why so many men were involved in this firefight, and why the death toll was so high. Not all of them were celestials, some were humans men and women alike. And Michael knew that would never set well with mankind. What they could never explain is that sometimes innocents die. Bad things happen to good people, and sometimes there’s not enough feeling in the world to expend it on each and everyone one of them. War was nothing new to this world, and it would never ever be wiped out. It’s just like I always told you, Maedryn. It’s not the War that matters. It’s the choices you make in the War that matter..
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Genesis
Apr 29, 2005 19:26:06 GMT -5
Post by Theoren Roullier on Apr 29, 2005 19:26:06 GMT -5
Maedryn was shaking. But he did as he was told and closed his eyes. How could he remember what had been taken from him? And what did she mean there was always something there? Concentrate Maedryn, just like Michael taught you, meditate… Maedryn was in the center of his mind. To the back of it was a door. Putting his hand on the knob he turned it slowly, scared of what he might find on the other side. But there was only darkness when he opened it. Michael was always there to help him do this, but now there was no one. Only himself. Hesitantly he took a step forwards…<br> And then he was falling, down down in a spiral towards the bottom of himself, a place he was afraid to go. But when he landed, it was not in blackness. It was for one instant, on a ship with the wind whipping through his hair, the smell of salt. And then it was gone as quickly as he had grabbed a hold of it. He reached out in his mind for it again and grabbed something. Another flash and he was in a tavern, lavishly built, sharing a drink with some seedy looking people and laughing with them. Gone. Desperately he in his mind’s eye to see more, taste more of it. He was with a woman and she smelled like Lilacs. He loved her. He had loved someone very deeply. But he had never told her. And then like the others she was gone, too.
It was all so fleeting, but one thing was constant throughout. He had been free… he didn’t always have to do the right thing or the self sacrificing thing, he did what he pleased regardless of the situation. He had the most beautiful gift of pragmatism. Opening his golden eyes he stared at Hope almost catatonically. “But how can it be?” he asked, almost choking on the words. “If I was created this being why would I crave something other than what I was made for?”<br>
Maedryn… what makes you think that you did not thrive on your natural urges here just as you did there. Three memories of gallivanting around the world and you’re already read to give up on all of this, your creator and your job. Why
Michael’s voice in his head sounded hurt. Maedryn looked down in shame. “I do have a job here, a job I agreed to do, and Michael… he’s like my father. He knows me. He guides me but… there’s just something missing. How can I neglect my duties though? Isn’t there something to be said for following through on something once you take responsibility for it?” He looked at her forlorn. Michael had always reinforced that no matter how much you didn’t want to do something, if you swore to it you had little choice.
I just want you to think before you leap into things Maedryn. You have always been impulsive. Before you make a decision that you can’t go back on remember the feel of a blade in your hand and remember how much you adore the feeling of pride you get when you defeat your enemy with your prowess in battle. Remember why God made you Maedryn, because I know you, and I know you still believe it.
Was he speaking genuinely or was it a subtle way of guilting him? Michael was never one for passive aggression. His mentor had always been a full front head on man when dealing with a problem. “I have this choice of leaving my family, and then going to what? To the Pits so I can fight them? Not that I disagree with everything the Pits have to say… but I do think they’ve become so corrupted that their methods are vile. And what are my other options? Go back to a life I can barely remember, to people who may be dead or won’t remember me?” With a sigh he looked out over the edge through the portal.
“Yet it’s so beautiful, Hope. Look at it… it’s free, it’s wild, it’s full of humans who are so full of life. I want that. But how badly do I want that?” That was the question. How much was he willing to pay for a piece of something beautiful?
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Genesis
May 2, 2005 16:35:52 GMT -5
Post by Jade-ness on May 2, 2005 16:35:52 GMT -5
[glow=pink,2,300]Chapter Five: The Decision[/glow]
Hope:
Of course she had been listening all along. What did they take her for? There wasn’t many that knew just exactly how far Hope’s capabilities could go if she let them. However, Valefor and his suit would have to wait. Maedryn had called her here to help him and she had said that she’d try, he was her reason for being here. It didn’t matter how much she’d have loved to have taunted Valefor further…she wasn’t going to give the demon the satisfaction.
Watching Maedryn, smiling even more as he did exactly as she had asked of him. Satisfaction as he recalled only a few fleeting images. Yes, Valefor had been right, she had seen his old life and much more. Only Hope wasn’t one to shout about it all. Hence her silence when it came to dealing with the Patchwork Demon. This game…the pieces were already set in play, long before she had ever been cast onto the board. It was a shame Valefor couldn’t see that he’d already lost, the moment Maedryn had brought her into play.
The look on Maedryn’s face, the things he said only drew her to take up his hand once more. To begin that slow walk toward the way out. “It is beautiful Maedryn. Very beautiful” they’d not step out and she had no plans on going through. She was looking and perhaps thinking of her own family. However, her words spoke of something far different. “In your own heart you know there’s something more out there. Something far more than just being a creation to do a job. – That’s what it is here, or perhaps in your case. There was a place that needed filling, a job that needed doing and so…you were created to do it.” She paused and took in a deep breath, watching the features of his face as she tried to cope with the magnitude of the choice he had to come to. It was life…or work, and those that he knew.
She felt for Michael, she knew better than most how it felt to lose a child, or someone you loved…or even someone very special. Her trials weren’t over and she was ready to face every single one of them…with a smile on her face because it was living.
“Responsibility? Don’t you think you have a responsibility to yourself? To life, the life He created for you?” this was so hard. Not being able to show him more or even tell him more. She could have said so much and yet…her words were chosen so carefully. ‘What would you do?’ he’d asked her before and she couldn’t say…though she’d have been off and through the portal that led to a life with the mortals without a second thought. Then again, it was all she knew. The Council….they’d made a grave mistake to show Maedryn and give him what he desired in the first place. If this was all he had known, he’d not have wanted more. The fools.
She moved before him then and spread her wings a little to block the sight of the portal from him. Offering out her right hand “The demons” her left hand was offered then “The Angels” – if he chose either the victory on the ‘winning’ side would scream through the plane. Taunt and jeers, back and forth – she could just imagine it now and it was hard to not roll her eyes. “Or there is life” he’d already said he wanted it. All he needed do was take that step.
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Genesis
May 2, 2005 16:36:15 GMT -5
Post by Jade-ness on May 2, 2005 16:36:15 GMT -5
The business man stood in the chilly morning air with a smile painted on his face. Everything had fallen into place beautifully and within the next few hours his enemies would all systematically be eliminated by other enemies. And Maedryn would be his for the taking. He had moved his pieces around the board like a true chess master and he could hardly wait to savor the taste of a checkmate. Maybe it wasn’t the whole war, but one battle against his own personal arch rival was enough for him today. Taking a deep inhale of the cigarette, the man sat down on the park bench and spread his arms over the back of the wooden seat.
Sure there had been sacrifices- a few pawns here and there, even a rook, but that was nothing compared to what he was going for. The Queen wasn’t his interest; he went straight for the jugular and the kill. Wouldn’t it just burn Yves to know he was outdone? Who cared if it was Maedryn or someone else, it was a prize worth winning for the side effects alone. He had taken a lot of risks for this, killing a touched, sabotaging his own side’s efforts in the war, stealing, and lying through his perfectly white and straightened teeth. Now sitting here in his wool and linen smoking his cherry scented cloves and grinning, his victory lap was a stage away from beginning.
“You know it’s bad luck to smoke a victory cigarette before winning a battle, Asmodae.” The voice from behind him almost made him jump. But the smile came back quickly. “Ah, Israfael, come to join me in a smoke?” He offered to the woman in the three piece suit who sat down on the bench beside him. She was silent for a moment, staring ahead at the stale snow. “So this is where it happened?” She asked. Asmodae’s face did not change. “Where what happened?” Israfael turned her head and looked at him plainly. “Where you killed Henry.” Asmodae froze for a split second but recovered almost instantly. “I’m not quite sure what you’re talking about, Israfael.”
A small coy smile spread over Israfael’s perfect lips. “Of course you don’t.” She paused to recross her legs and fold her hands in her lap. “But it’s not a very smart idea to lie to a Seraph.” Asmodae shrugged with a handsome smile. “Nothing you can do now to stop it.” Israfael smiled. “No, there isn’t anything you can do.” Asmodae looked up quizzically. “If everything is going how it should, Valefor is licking his wounds in the back of his nightclub plotting some other kind of hostile world takeover.” Asmodae’s smile twisted into a look of frustrated anger. But then it subsided.
What do I care if one piece of the puzzle fell through? She does not know about Ba’al. Vasago is dead by now, and Ba’al can just as easily be turned against Valefor once Maedryn falls. “So you found me out, points to you. I’ve still caused enough damage. So if you’re here looking for some kind of match…” Israfael laid a hand on his knee. “No Asmodae, I’m not here looking for anything. Just confirmation of my suspicions. And you’ve given me that much. You walk a thin line, Asmodae. I’m not here to hurt you. I’ll let someone else do that much.” Having said her piece she stood and rearranged her long wool overcoat. Asmodae took another long drag from the cigarette.
“Say whatever makes it easier on you, Israfael. You can’t defeat me. You can only delay me.” He said as she walked away. Ah Asmodae. Your arrogance will be your undoing. Your flawless plans, your manipulations, they’ll all fall through in the end when you have no allies and no where to turn, and suddenly the walls are inching closer and closer. “If I were you, Asmodae, I would get back to your office.” She quipped over her shoulder, much to Asmodae’s look of surprise. Little did the demon Prince know, the rules and players of the game were all about to change and pull the rug right out from under his feet.
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Genesis
May 2, 2005 16:36:56 GMT -5
Post by Jade-ness on May 2, 2005 16:36:56 GMT -5
There was no subtle knock, no enraged yelling, nothing but a calm before the whirlwind that hit as the door to Asmodae’s office was ripped clear out of its stone frame. As it was thrown into the wall there was a crack like thunder as it shattered into hundreds of stone fragments. Asmodae looked up from his paperwork to see the hulking figure of a betrayed warrior breathing labored before him. He could tell that this was not one of Ba’al’s usual temper tantrums. This time, his anger was not its normal simmering under the surface ire. This time it was full on rage.
Ba’al made no hesitation in moving straight towards his target. Picking up the stone desk by the lip he heaved it free of its foundation and sent it sliding into the far wall where another thunderclap resounded as it cracked clean in half. Picking up Asmodae by the shirt collars the demon Prince of the War slammed him backwards in his chair into a pillar. His voice was strung like a high tension wire as he tried to exercise his very best restraint in controlling his wild need for destruction. “You... sold me out…” Asmodae’s eyes went wide for a moment. Ba’al didn’t even give him a chance to respond.
“It was you. You told Vasago to lie to Israfael’s lackey for you, and then you lied to me. You used him as a scape goat because you knew I would kill him. That eliminated two enemies for you, Vasago would be dead and I would be forever endeared to you for the information. You played me, and I warned you not to play me Asmodae. You killed hundreds of my men for your own interests. Now I’m gonna make you pay just like Vasago did.” Asmodae’s face hardened even as Ba’al’s hand tightened around his throat.
“I wouldn’t do that if I were you.” Ba’al paused. “And why wouldn’t I want to do this?” Asmodae glared. “You’re right Ba’al. I played you. I played all of you. But don’t take me for a fool. I didn’t do it without insurance. I’m not so arrogant as to think I’m perfect. If you lay so much as a hand on me, with a thought I can send out stolen battle plans to Michael and his outposts, and I have half a platoon of Djinni and five lieutenants outside your main temple even as we speak. You might kill me, but I will cripple your forces and your epicenter so beyond repair that you’ll be helpless against the forces of the Host. Not to mention the Hierarchy would excommunicate you almost instantly.” Ba’al’s face froze in angry horror. “You sick bastard… you’d destroy Hell just to make sure one of us didn’t get it.” Asmodae’s lips curled in an ugly smile. “If I can’t rule it, no one will, Ba’al.”
“How did you get those plans?” Asmodae chuckled as he loosened Ba’al’s grip on his shirt collar. “Valefor owed me a favor. I would say though, now you and I are even.” Ba’al wanted to spit. His hands were tied. I could survive his so called attack. Chances are I could change my battle plans at the last minute, and though it would be a hard blow to take, I could stand up again if he took hold of my temple. But if the Hierarchy banded against me with some very angry lieutenants of Asmodae at the helm of the decision, I could easily be ruined. It was a terrible Catch 22. Save his integrity and gut the traitorous bastard, while chancing complete annihilation or looking like the weaker of two evils and walking away. Well there always was that old adage, He who fights and runs away….
Ba’al relaxed his grip on Asmodae’s throat, letting him settle back into his chair. “Don’t get too comfortable, Asmodae. I might not kill you today, but our alliance is officially over. Next time our interests collide, we’re as enemy as Michael and I.” The eyes of the Calabite flashed red and then he gave Asmodae a quick shove back into his chair before stalking out the door again. Asmodae sank down in the chair, recovering from the blow and smoothed out his suit. Calabim. Couldn’t live with them sometimes.
Asmodae had lost the battle, but not the war. Not yet. Nor did he intend to. On the bright side, a most spectacular revelation! So Ba’al’s weakness is not his stupidity after all. It’s in that subconscious trait that makes him so much like his former master. Ba’al cares for his troops, whether he wants to admit it or not. Just as Michael does. It does not matter if they believe in their cause, that is for people like you and I, isn’t it Yves? Indeed it does seem Ba’al has just give me a new way to manipulate him. Not a total loss, I suppose. Only time can tell that now. He thought as the smile returned to his face. Tomorrow, after all, was a new day.
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Genesis
May 2, 2005 18:50:30 GMT -5
Post by Theoren Roullier on May 2, 2005 18:50:30 GMT -5
Looking out over the swirling portal Maedryn somehow felt he was at a precipice within himself. If he made the choice to be an Outsider he could never come back, ever. And the Outsiders were only loosely banded together, they did not help even each other unless it was in their best interest or in the best interest of their cause. That’s why he had called on Hope, because she was one of the few that had other’s best interest in mind. Each side offered what they claimed was freedom, but deep down in him Maedryn knew that wasn’t true.
He closed his eyes to think. He knew what Hope was presenting to him- his third way out. And he knew she wouldn’t take him if it wasn’t what he wanted. Freedom… is that what it really is? One side offers me chaos, the other side offers me a mask. Valefor’s ‘freedom’ is nothing more than the absence of a structure, and Michael’s freedom is to be someone I don’t think I am. Hope’s words rang in his ears. He did have a responsibility to himself, but more over, he had a responsibility to everything in creation not to pretend anymore. That’s why angels fell in the first place. They didn’t have any other place to go when they realized they weren’t meant to be angels anymore.
And there was something more. Those memories had grabbed a hold of something buried deep inside him that someone, maybe himself, was trying to hide or hide from. Something wild and unpredictable, something with no intentions hidden. It had ignited the moment he had relived the sea spray on his face. That was what freedom was. “The Council was foolish.” He said, his eyes still closed, “They gave me exactly what I wanted… I’ve tasted it… and now I can never go back, can I, Hope?” Things were starting to become clearer now.
Deep within his mind he was grabbing memories as they came. Of a ship, of a silver haired lady, of a mute and a best friend, of pirating, robbing, slitting throats, birthing babies and saving lives. He hadn’t been anything to categorize. No wonder the Council was terrified of him… think of what kind of mayhem he could have unleashed. And think of how miserable he would be to know he could never having it again.
In his mind’s eye, he could see it. He could see the tavern, taste the beer, feel the wind and hear the sails whipping back and forth. He had a home. He had been someone. He had loved, and lost and taken and given and all of the beautiful things angels were told to reserve themselves from. Hope understood, she knew all along. Had she seen it to? “I did some bad things when I was there. Maybe I did good ones. It doesn’t seem to matter now. I can’t very well go up and I definitely can’t go down.” All he could hope for now is that Michael found it in his heart to forgive him. And hope he was about to make the right decision. But then again, something in his gut just felt… right about it.
He looked through the portal again and then over to Hope with that trademarked old grin he had worn for so many years in Ayenee. Despite the fear, despite the thought of never returning to this place ever again, he was ready. Reaching a hand out to her he folded his wings back with a broad and charming smile.
“Alright, Outsider. Take me home.”<br>
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