Shadowess

shadowess - March 14, 2021 "Oh man!" Parker complained. "C'mon, don't leave me behind! I still got some energy in me!" He tried to stand then immediately fell back in the chair as his legs shook under his weight. "Dammit!" he then sighed. "Alright...fine...I'll chill here with Vincent and Elliot..." he said in defeat. Tom had watched Nate help Leo with his weapons and outfit. His last comment causing his cheeks to turn pink as he smirked at Nate with soft eyes. Sebastian turned to Carter and kissed his cheek. "Someone has to stay behind to watch Elliot, Vincent and Parker while the Trickster is on the loose. I don't mind staying. Just make sure you stay safe." ------ Desi beamed at Bryce's compliment. "There's time." He assured him. "I can give you mild versions of my powers but a Devil can make you a fully fledged Demon." He explained then sighed. "I might be a sovereign among Incubi and Succubi but I am no Devil, unfortunately." When Terry was opening the front door and Bryce had positioned himself, giving the order, Desi stepped up to the front door. He opened it just as Terry was putting the key in the lock. "Hey honey." He mimicked Hannah's voice. Terry smiled then blinked. "Hiya honey, uh-...say you're looking good today! Something's different about you..." He said looking her over. Desi pretended to be giddy with flattery, giggling and stepping back to let him in. "I guess all that yoga is working!" She giggled. She'd almost forgotten that she'd altered this shape slightly. "I'll say!" Terry chuckled, stepping into the house. "Say, why don't we put dinner on hold and get an extra little work out in?" He grinned as he stepped further into the living room towards her, not seeing Bryce by the door. Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 Carter smiled. "Don't worry man. We'll be back before you even know it." Nate winked at Tom. "So, we have Carter, myself, Tom, and Leo coming then? I think this team will be good enough." "I unfortunately know a thousand ways to kill people and hide the evidence. I also know every fighting technique and am efficiently fast." "Fast as in?" Leo zoomed from the upstairs to the downstairs. Nate blinked. "How come I didn't read this?" "Guess you somehow missed it. But basically I've got some vampire and werewolf blood in me. I'm still human though. Just able to be more stronger and faster." "I think it's safe to say that there's no one like you." "Me too." Carter didn't like the idea of leaving Sebastian. Even if he was with some of their friends. Everything that had happened from before had him worried. He kissed his forehead. He caressed his cheek. "You be careful too." ----- Bryce picked up the lamp near him and struck it on the back of his head. Terry fell over. Knocked out. "I will never understand why humans must keep lamps near doors." shadowess - March 14, 2021 The wink made Tom's cheeks turn redder than they already had been and he grinned. He'd missed the way Nate made him feel. They then watched in surprise as Leo moved impossibly fast for a human, then explained he had both vampire and werewolf blood. "You're essentially a hybrid!" Sebastian had said in surprise. He then looked around at them all with a raised eyebrow. "Well, don't go getting too excited. You're stealing a body from a morgue not breaking into Alcatraz! I doubt anyone you'll come across will be anything more than just some human night security..." He then turned to Carter, smiling at his kiss while lifting a hand to cup Carter's hand on his cheek. "I love you." --- Stepping aside as the human fell, she watched the human fall face first onto the floor with cold indifference. Desi then laughed at Bryce's comment. "I suppose we should tie this one up for now." She said as he pulled Terry's arm around her shoulders, lifting him as though he weighed nothing. She dragged him over to the basement door. "Would you mind bringing one of the chairs?" She called back while descending the stairs and carefully stepping over Hannah's body at the bottom. Once in the basement, she'd tie Terry tightly to a chair and stuff some fabric into his mouth to muffle any noise he might make when he woke up. Grinning mischievously, she'd then drag Hannah's body further into the basement so that she was within Terry's eye line when he'd wake up. "That should do it. He's all yours whenever and however you want him." She said to Bryce, dusting her hands off then climbing back up the stairs to drink from the bottle of vodka again. She debated taking a short nap on the couch. Feeling tired after everything that had happened, and especially after being shot earlier. Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 Leo held a small smile for a moment. "I don't do anything drastic unless I have to." Carter blushed. His smile beamed. "Love you too." "Alrighty then. Are we all ready to go?" ,said Nate. ----- Bryce smirked. "I am feeling rather lonely tonight." He zoomed into the basement where he locked the door. (private time) shadowess - March 14, 2021 (Poor Terry rofl) Tom stepped away from the wall when Nate asked if they were ready to go. "Ready." He said with a nod and a determined tone. He moved to stand next to Nate. Sebastian reluctantly let go of Carter. "I'll call you if anything happens here." He said to Carter. "Good luck guys." Parker said, looking over at them. He then seemed to hesitate, his eyes wandering across the floor as if listening to something. He frowned then rolled his eyes with a sigh. "Alex says to make sure the body is a hot one..." He said in an embarrassed tone as his cheeks turned red. Shadowess - March 14, 2021 (I posted up a pic of Carter & Sebastian ) Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 (yeah lol. btw loved the picture) Carter nodded. "I'll do the same." He headed over to Nate. Leo did too. Nate smirked. "Don't worry, Alex. I'm an expert at finding hot guys anyway. Even the dead ones." Carter rolled his eyes. Leo raised a brow. "So, are taking a car over there?" Nate laughed. "That's pretty funny." His wings sprouted. Causing Leo to jump before all of them had disappear. Appearing inside a morgue. Shadowess - March 14, 2021 (Thanks, glad you like it ) You would think the morgue would be a hot spot for creeps and wierdos and that they'd need several guards to watch the building during the night. In reality, the morgue was the most boring place on Earth. It was so rare that anything out of the ordinary ever happened in the morgue that there was only ever one security guard on duty during the night shift. On this particular night, Rasheed was so incredibly bored that he sat with his feet up on the desk, playing on his phone and barely paying attention to anything around him. The first few nights of his shift had been creepy but once you got used to being surrounded by bodies with nothing else going on, the fear was soon replaced by boredom. That was until four complete strangers appeared in the room, one of them apparently being an Angel. Rasheed had yelped and jumped so much that he fell off his chair, which then rolled away from him. "Wha-wha-wha-wha-what-?!" He stammered, staring at the strangers and reaching for his stun gun with shaky hands. Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 Leo zoomed to the security guard and swiped the stun gun from him then knocked him out with one punch. "Damn. Good job buddy." ,said Nate. "I didn't think anyone guarded this place." "Me either. But we should hurry and pick a body. Just make sure Alex will like it." shadowess - March 14, 2021 "Here..." Tom turned on the little TV on the desk and switched it to a horror channel. "Put him back on the chair with his feet up again. He'll think he fell asleep on the job and had a nightmare." Once the security guard was taken care of, they went around the room, opening up the cold storage lockers to look at the bodies. "Remember, it's gotta be someone who died in the past day." Tom said. David had said 'fresh' so it only made sense that the body just be a few hours old. Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 Carter set the security guard on the chair. Leo cringed at the sight of the bodies. "You know, I don't think I actually ever got use to seeing dead people. When I was brainwashed, I never looked at anyone as a person. I just did the missions. That was it." "Yeah well, I was told to do the same thing by the big guy in the sky but he's full of shit anyway." ,said Nate. ------ Elliot was shivering as he suddenly coughed. Waking himself up. He held on to Vincent's hand. Still trying to stay with him. Shadowess - March 14, 2021 Some of the bodies had been cut open and sewn back up. Apparently having had autopsies conducted to determine their cause of death. Tom also cringed but he cringed at these bodies the most. "Yeah...I don't think Alex will want huge scars across his new body..." He commented. Pulling open a new storage locker, Tom looked over his shoulder at the others. "Hey guys. This one hasn't been touched yet." He checked the tag. "Died at 5pm today. That's only a few hours old. Cause of death is suspected brain aneurysm." The body was a slender male with barely any muscle to them. Short strawberry blonde hair. His eyes were closed. ---- Parker had gone to lay in one of the spare beds upstairs. Meanwhile, Sebastian sat in one of the chairs in the living room to keep an eye on things while the others rested. He looked over when he heard Elliot cough and raised an eyebrow. "You alright, Elliot?" Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 "Then that's the one." Nate grabbed the body. Putting it over his shoulder. "We should go." Everyone gathered near him before they disappeared. ----- Elliot struggled to keep his eyes opened. "Y-Yeah....I'm fin-" He suddenly fell over. Losing his grip on Vincent's hand. He had passed out. His body was still cold. All of this nonstop action and no sleep had made him sick. Giving him the flu. Shadowess - March 14, 2021 "Elliot!" Sebastian got to his feet and placed a hand on Elliot's head. "Dammit, you're burning up." He pulled him into his arms and took him upstairs to the spare bedroom, placing him on the second bed. He then moved into the bathroom where he took out the medicine they'd got for Carter when he'd been sick as a human. He also took out a flannel and rinsed it in some cold water before taking the items to Elliot. He placed the flannel over his forehead and the medicine on the little bedside table next to him for him to take when he'd wake up. Just as Sebastian reached the bottom of the stairs, on his way to fetch Elliot a glass of water, the others arrived with a corpse. David was also sitting on a chair near Vincent, apparently having been there since Sebastian had taken Elliot upstairs because he was now drinking a cup of tea with an old looking book on his lap. "Oh, wow you guys were fast!" He commented. "Hold on, I'll help. I just need to take some water to Elliot. He's not well." "No need, Sebastian. You continue caring for Elliot and Vincent. The spell doesn't really need a lot of people involved." David said casually, looking over the book's cover. Sebastian nodded and hurried off into the kitchen to get Elliot's water. David looked up at them. "We'll need an open space and some paint. Enough to paint a rather large symbol on the ground." He then looked at Nate and Carter. "I'll need you two to keep an eye on Alex once he's in his new body. Let's not forget, this is the Alex that tortured my daughter. He's not mentally stable. Don't kill him and don't use force unless you have to ...he might be a psychotic asshole but he's still, sort of, my grandson...I'd like to hope that he could still be saved...now, that having been said, would someone be kind enough to go wake him up. The sooner we do this, the better." Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 Elliot was breathing heavily as he was resting on the bed. Nate placed the body on the floor. "Can we do it here?" "Not in this house. And is Elliot ok?" ,asked Carter. "It's the flu. He'll live." "And what color should the paint be?" ,said Leo. Nate appeared with Parker in his arms. "You really have got to stop doing that. And put those wings away. You're ruining my carpet." ,said Carter. Nate's wings went back into him. Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 (forgot to put this in) He rolled his eyes. "So pushy." shadowess - March 14, 2021 Sebastian went back upstairs to Elliot and placed the glass of water on the little table next to him. He then gently tried to shake him awake. "Elliot, I need you to try sitting up. You need to take some medicine to try and keep the fever down." He said gently. David stood when he saw Nate reappear with Parker. He barely paid much attention to their banter as he tried to keep focused on what he needed to do. "The color doesn't matter. Make it pink if you really want to. All that matters is the symbol is complete with no breaks in the lines. Parker will need to stand in the center with the body face-up in front of him. Their feet together." He sighed and turned back to Carter. "I'm not going to lie. Pulling the other soul out of him is going to cause him a great deal of pain and he will likely scream." He looked at them all seriously. "But under no circumstance must any of you run into the circle to help him or the spell will fail catastrophically. Do you understand?" He looked each of them in the eyes before looking at Parker. "He needs to be awake. He has to consciously want the spell to work...We should choose somewhere remote, where no one will interrupt us." Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 Elliot slowly opened his eyes. "Hmm....?" Carter frowned but nodded. "Fine." "Then let's go." ,said Nate who let Parker as he picked up the dead body. Waking Parker instantly. "Wait a-!" Carter, Nate, Parker, Leo, and David appeared in the middle of a desert. "Minute...." Carter sighed. Leo looked around. "Where's Tom?" "David said he only needed a few people here and I figured he wanted to relax."

Denix Vames - March 13, 2021 Carter's hold on him tighten. "I'm sorry. I just didn't want anyone else to get hurt. You should have just left me. Vincent wouldn't have gotten hurt." Tears peeked from his eyes. "I wouldn't have fought you." Nate walked over to Parker. "We need to get rid of that pest that's in your head. You won't be able to help us if you keep hallucinating." Leo walked over to Vincent. He glanced at the wound on his leg. "Did I do that? Did I shoot him?" ----- Bryce glared. "We need to eliminate that bastard. I won't have a hunter around to ruin my plans." shadowess - March 13, 2021 "Not a chance!" Sebastian laughed through his tears. "And leave you at the mercy of that bastard? No. I don't care that I had to fight you to bring you back to yourself. I'd do anything for you." He kissed Carter's cheek lovingly. "I'd kill for you." Tom had followed Leo to the living room where Vincent, Nate and Parker were now. When he asked if he'd shot Vincent, Tom frowned and sighed. "You weren't yourself when it happened. Just remember that." He answered gently, then added. "He'll be alright though. It might take him a couple of days to heal but he'll be fine." Parker shivered then became rigid at Nate's words. His hands still covering his face. He breathed into his hands before speaking slowly. "And how do you suppose we do that?" His voice was monotone as he spoke. Tom rose a brow at the way Parker was speaking to Nate. "I might have an idea." The voice made Tom jump and he whirled around to see David in the house. "I'd visited the office but no one was there. Apologies for not knocking." He then moved into the room and looked over Parker who was still covering his face before glancing up at Nate. "By any chance, have you heard of the story about an Angel named Angel?" --- "Agreed. But we won't be able to do that in our current condition. Right now we're both weakened and vulnerable. Come, we need to move." He held out a hand to help Bryce to his feet. After recovering from such a horrendous attack, Bryce would probably need to feed again and Desi would need at least a day or so for his bullet wound to heal. They also needed a new place they could lay low and where they could retreat to if things got out of hand again. "Once we've recovered, we can come up with a new plan. On the bright side-" Desi grinned evilly. "They think you're dead again. Which gives you the element of surprise once more." Denix Vames - March 13, 2021 Carter chuckled at his last comment. "Let's not find ourselves at that point unless we have to." Leo frowned. He got to his knees. Being near Vincent. "Hope you wake up soon buddy." He turned to them. "Does he have someone? Anyone who would want to know about this?" Nate smirked. "That's a funny joke there, David." ----- Bryce smiled. "Then find us a new place. I'm running out of ideas here." shadowess - March 13, 2021 Chuckling as well, Sebastian nodded. "Agreed." He then glanced at the bathroom door. "We should probably see how the others are doing." Parker had become silent. Listening. His hands still covering his face. When Leo asked if Vincent had anyone that would need to know what happened, Tom's eyes widened. He hadn't even considered that! "Elliot!" He gasped and took out his phone. "Do you guys have his number?" He asked Nate and David. David smirked at Nate's comment and calmly took a seat in an empty chair, folding one leg over the other. "Not a joke. I knew her." He started, glancing at the ground briefly before bringing his eyes back up to Nate's. "Angelica Magpie. But everyone who knew her, called her Angel. When she'd been human, she'd developed a split personality disorder. Only it wasn't just something that was in her head...it was an entire consciousness of it's own. It had developed it's own soul. An entire individual trapped in her head, forced to watch her live her life through her eyes. Occasionally, this other soul would become frustrated and fight to take over Angel's body. Controlling her actions for a short period of time before it became too tired to keep fighting Angel's mind and she'd regain control." David glanced at Parker as he said this. "Right, Alex?" Parker didn't answer. He remained silent and rigid in the chair. "Angel got tired of fighting. Tired of constantly questioning her sanity. So, when Lucifer visited her town, she saw an opportunity to be free of this other mind. She approached him and they struck a deal. He performed a spell that separated the two. Angel remained in her own body while the other soul was transported into a fresh corpse which was then reanimated. Carol was born...and given the nature of the spell, she was born a Demon." David paused, remembering Carol. Amelia's adopted mother. The woman who'd helped him to raise her when they found her in Hell as an infant. He missed her sometimes. Stirring himself out of his memories, he pressed on. "Of course, Angel's part of the deal was to give her soul to Lucifer upon her death, adding to his power. What the two didn't count on, was that they'd fall for one another. When Angel died, her soul was damned. Yet she refused to become one of Lucifer's demons. Simply incapable of bringing harm to others. Not wanting his love to suffer an afterlife she didn't want, Lucifer made the ultimate sacrifice. He destroyed the contract...granting Angel her ascension to Heaven. There she worked tirelessly to become an Angel so that she could help people. With the war going on though, this now meant the lovers were on the opposite sides..." David sighed and shrugged. "Not a happy ending, I know. But Lucifer was never confirmed dead and shortly after his disappearance, Angel vanished too. So, who knows... Maybe she finally convinced him to give up his throne in pursuit of a peaceful life?" ---------- Chuckling at Bryce's attitude, Desi turned to leave the apartment, leading the way. He used his telepathy to tap into a man's mind. He saw where the man lived and who he lived with and grinned. Nice looking house. Wife, no kids and no other relatives. The man's name was Terry Sunderland. His wife was Hannah. Taking hold of Bryce's arm, he turned to look at him. "I have an idea. How would you like a little banquet?" He asked as he teleported them outside of the Terry's house. There, Desi changed his form to look identical to Terry. "Terry won't be home for another hour. Follow my lead and we'll have this entire house to ourselves. We just have to get his wife to let us in and they're all yours to feed on." He said quietly before stepping up to the door. He knocked on the door and Hannah answered. "Hey honey!" Desi said, mimicking Terry's voice perfectly. "I lost my keys! This is my friend from work, he's new to the office. I said he could drop by for a drink. Hope you don't mind." He said as he stepped into the house and kissed Hannah on the cheek on his way past. "Oh er- I guess not. Hello, I'm Hannah." The woman said and smiled as she held the door open for Bryce. "We've got Budweiser in the fridge if you want one...or we've got juice if you're staying off the booze." She offered, closing the door behind them. She didn't seem to notice Desi going around and closing all the curtains. Denix Vames - March 13, 2021 "Yeah, we should." They headed to the living room. When Carter heard him, he frowned. "I don't think so. Did anyone ever get his number? Maybe you could tell him Nate." Nate nodded. He disappeared then showed up with Elliot sleeping in his arms. "He was in bed." Carter pinched the brim of his nose as he shook his head with a sigh. "You really didn't have to bring him. You could have just told him." Leo walked over to Elliot. "Is this his boyfriend?" He looked down. "He's going to hate me." "Yes but I'm sure after he's done trying to kill you, we can take care of some business. First, we need to give Alex his own body. Then we kill the trickster." ----- Bryce raised a brow. "A banquet?" He listened to what he had to say. He chuckle. "I like that idea." He smiled. "Hello there." Once the door was closed, he licked his lips. "I'd like your blood." He tackled her to the floor. Sucking her blood as soon as he did. He didn't stop until she was dead. Shadowess - March 13, 2021 Tom shook his head, trying to be annoyed at Nate but couldn't help smirking and then chuckling at what he'd done. It just seemed too comical. When Leo spoke though, his smile slipped. "I'm sure it'll be alright once we explain everything to them." He tried to reassure him. When Nate said they'd need to give Alex his own body, David nodded and stood. "I think I know which spell Lucifer used. I'll be back in a moment with the book...just remember though...you'll need a fresh corpse for it to work." He vanished, leaving them to figure out how they would get a fresh body to put Alex's soul into. Only now, Parker lowers his hands. He sighed, losing consciousness. His head dropping back against the back of the chair he was in. Exhausted from trying to fight Alex who had tried to take over. ------ Desi watched Bryce tackle and bite the woman who yelped as she hit the floor. He watched in fascination as she struggled to push him off her until Bryce's venom took hold and her pupils dilated. Her movements becoming slow and feeble, her eyes searched the room. Looking for an explanation to what was happening to her. When they landed on Desi, she reached out to him desperately. "Ter-Terry! Help me!" She gasped. Desi's mouth twisted into a sinister grin as he changed his form in front of her, changing back into the blond male he had been earlier. Her eyes widened. She stared at him in terror and confusion. She then began to cry and beg for her life only for Desi to shush her. "It'll be over soon." He said softly. He watched her giving up, relaxing into Bryce's grip before going limp. Her eyes becoming lifeless. He smiled at Bryce. "Feel better?" He asked. "The husband will be home soon. If you're full we can always ambush him and save him for when you're next hungry." Desi suggested, he then looked around the house. "I think if anything, we've done them a favor...no sense of style in this place..." He opened up a cabinet and grinned. "Ahh, that's more like it!" He said as he pulled out the bottle of vodka, opening it up and helping himself. Denix Vames - March 13, 2021 Elliot opened his eyes. "Huh?" He looked around. "Why am I here?" His eyes widened at the sight of him. "Vincent!" He hopped out of Nate's arms. Stumbling then running to him. He knelt by his side. Tears poured out of him. He rested his head over his chest. "Why?! How did this happen?" "I'm sorry. I shot him." He turned to him. Glaring. "He was brainwashed to become one of the ADIEU soldiers. I was able to destroy that trance and bring him back to reality." ,said Nate. Elliot stomped over. Clenching his fists. "I don't care if you cured him of cancer! This bitch almost killed my boyfriend!" "I-" He punched him before Leo could say anything. Nate was about to heal Leo's bloody nose when he held up a hand. "Don't. I deserve it. I know I do." Elliot wasn't sure what to say about Leo accepting defeat. He silently went back to Vincent where he stayed on his knees and kept his head near him. Crying. Carter walked over to Parker and gently shook his shoulder. "Hey Parker. You alright?" "I'll do it." Leo lifted his head up. "I need to make up for what I've done. I'll die in order to save Parker from this other person." ----- Bryce licked his lips. "I wouldn't mind a little snack for later." He rested on a chair. "This will due as our hideout." shadowess - March 14, 2021 Tom watched what happened between Elliot and Leo awkwardly. Not knowing what to do. Being shook lightly, Parker's eyes flickered open and he groaned, bringing his hand up to rub his forehead as his head pounded. "Head hurts..." He groaned in reply to Carter's question. When Leo offered himself, Sebastian shook his head. "I don't believe David means for us to actually kill anyone. That's not like him." He said. Although David had been vague, Sebastian and the others had known him long enough to know he wouldn't just kill someone over something like this. He then thought for a moment then snapped his fingers. "The morgue. We just need a body. One that died in the past day..." Parker scoffed. "What a night...Carter gets kidnapped, Vincent gets shot, we tie a guy up, I chase a guy who'd been watching us...who turned out to be the trickster...and now we gotta go grave robbing..." He sighed heavily. "What the hell is today?" --------- Swallowing some of the vodka, Desi smiled at Bryce as he placed the bottle down on the nearby table. He looked over Hannah's corpse thoughtfully then shifted his form to look like her. Once he looked identical, he moved towards her, lifting her arm and dragging her towards the basement where he threw the body down the steps. "I'll clean that up later." He said while cracking his neck. He then looked himself over in the mirror. Running a hand through the brown locks. Gliding a finger over the rounded cheeks. "I rather like this form. I may use it for a while...I'm going to need a new form anyway after that little group saw me in that other one. At least they don't know I can shape shift." He said, his voice becoming more feminine. He looked down at himself, admiring his new curves. "Although..." His new shape then changed slightly. Making his breasts a little more plump and his waist a little smaller. "I wonder if I could have some fun in this form...stir up some trouble..." He smirked, stepping away from the mirror and grabbing the vodka once more. He sat across from Bryce and took a long swig of the bottle. It didn't take too much longer before the jingling sound of keys could be heard behind the front door. "He's here." Desi grinned, his eyes moving from the door to Bryce. Denix Vames - March 14, 2021 "You're sitting this one out. I can't have you passing out on us. Not to mention you're clearly in no shape to be doing anything right now. Go to one of the bedrooms and get some rest. That's an assignment from yours truly." ,said Carter. "Ah! I almost forgot." Nate picked up the handguns. In a flash, their forms changed. "Now, they're regular handguns that you can use on anyone. Hurts like a bitch but thankfully doesn't kill your friends. Kills your enemies though." He handed them to him. Leo examined them. "Why do they have laser sights?" Nate shrugged. "I thought you'd like. Also, you can still keep your knife and taser. It's not really a big deal. But I would recommend a better strap." Leo raised a brow. A chest strap was suddenly over his chest. Holding his knife on one side and one of his guns on the other side. His taser and other gun was in the waist strap which was on. He lifted his jacket so that he could look. "By the way, it's not winter honey." His neck sweater became a tight long sleeved shirt. "Ok but why am I wearing something out of a night club?" "Eventually, you're going to find someone who wants to see those abs. Not me though. I already have abs that I can look at and they ain't mine." Elliot had quickly fallen asleep with his head now resting on Vincent's chest. He was exhausted from everything that had happened within these past hours. ------ Bryce appeared impressed by Desi's words. "You do these things far better than I ever could. I would love to become what you are." He became alert once he heard the man walking to the front door with his keys by his side. He stood near the door. Ready to knock him out. "Let him in."

Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 (forgot to add this in) "Do you need anything?" ,said Elliot who wasn't sure what to do now. Shadowess - March 12, 2021 Parker had helped Vincent over to the couch to rest while he bandaged his leg. Carter seemed to grow impatient while they waited for the stranger to wake up. Throwing water in his face was one thing but punching him? "Hey! Take it easy!" Tom had protested. Sebastian did nothing to stop Carter. He was glaring at the stranger while leaning against the kitchen counter. Their eyes widened when the stranger then swallowed something. "Shit! the cyanide tooth!" Tom remembered. He'd recognized the weapons from ADIEU, so he assumed this man had been a member. Before they could react, Nate had reappeared and healed him. Tom breathed a sigh of relief and moved to stand near Nate. "Forgive us for being just a bit on edge." Sebastian said in response to Nate while still glaring at the stranger. "He did just try to kill us all. He succeeded in killing Bryce and I can only assume the Demon that was with him is dead by now as well. Vincent was lucky!" --- Neva shrugged, hugging her legs. She'd gone quiet again. She lay down and placed her head on the pillow, staring off at the wall as she started to calm down and feel tired. Denix Vames - March 13, 2021 "Oh? And I thought Tom was the last surviving member of the ADIEU." The man growled. "For a human, he sure knows how to sound like an animal." Nate looked at him. "Tell me now. What's your name and why did you try to kill my friends?" The man didn't respond. "Do you want me to get into your head again?" He seemed slightly frightened. He said, "Number 05468. I live to eliminate all monsters in the world. I am to kill myself when it is necessary. I am to accept ADIEU's experiments when it is required. I am to let ADIEU discipline me when I have broken the rules. I am a tool. I am a machine. I am not a human being." "Jesus fucking christ....Has this guy been brainwashed into becoming some kind of super soldier?" ,asked Carter. "Perhaps." ,said Nate. Vincent had passed out on the couch. ----- Elliot placed a hand on her arm. "Do you want me to stay here?" shadowess - March 13, 2021 "So did I..." Tom said They all watched intently as Nate questioned the stranger who identified himself by a number. All of them disturbed by what he told them. Tom especially. He knew there had been soldiers in ADIEU but he didn't know they'd been brainwashed like this. It was inhuman. It was wrong. "Eh, he looks more like a Klaus to me. Anyone else see it?" Parker smirked as he came back into the kitchen from the living room. "Vincent's asleep. He got pretty beat up though." Parker said, looking between them. Sebastian nodded. "He was fighting the other Demon..." he explained while pulling out a couple of blood bags, passing one to Carter to help them both heal from their injuries. "This isn't right..." Tom said, staring at the man in the chair. "To take away someone's free will like that..." Parker shuffled uncomfortably on his feet, averting his eyes from the others while trying to push away the memories of forcing Amelia to do whatever he said when he'd been a Blood God. Sebastian sighed, letting his anger at the man subside. "I refuse to call you by a number. You are human, not some mindless killing machine." He said sternly. "And just because some people are different from you, it doesn't make them monsters." --- Neva nodded, not wanting to be alone while she felt so frightened and vulnerable. She wiped away her tears and stayed laid down until she eventually fell asleep. Denix Vames - March 13, 2021 Carter drank from the blood bag. "Klaus? I rather let him choose his own name. At least when he has the sense to name himself." The man said again, "Number 05468. I live to eliminate all monsters in the world. I am to kill myself when it is necessary. I am to accept ADIEU's experiments when it is required. I am to let ADIEU discipline me when I have broken the rules. I am a tool. I am a machine. I am not a human being." "Looks as though he's been told to say this when he's been captured. I hope no one minds this but I might be able to get him out of this....whatever it is. I can bring his memories back from before and during his process of becoming an ADIEU soldier. It might 'wake' him up." ------ Elliot fell asleep next to her. Shadowess - March 13, 2021 Sebastian bit into his blood bag and started to drink from it. "Fair enough" Parker replied to Carter with a shrug. Both he and Sebastian then watched what was happening quietly. "I think at this rate you might have to..." Tom commented when it seemed the man in the chair wasn't going to stop repeating himself. It just seemed so awful that a human being could be forced to give up their humanity in such a way. To have everything that makes them human stripped away, leaving them nothing more than a tool. It made Tom in particular sick to his stomach. To think...if he'd ever gotten the promotion he'd been chasing...he might have ended up like this! Denix Vames - March 13, 2021 Nate nodded. He placed a hand on the man's head. The man's eyes widened. Flashes of old memories came to his mind. He could see his daughter Sky playing games with her mother Ava. The times when he had to drop Sky off to school. He remembered those moments of being alone with Ava. How close they were. He recalled men in black breaking into his home and kidnapping his family. Telling him that he had the perfect skills as a veteran who was needed for this kind of work. That if he didn't listen then they would kill his family. He always followed what they had to say but sometimes he didn't. That's when the experiments started. He'd ask for his wife and daughter but they would never say anything. Nate took a step back. "He's awake." The man had tears dripping down his face without realizing it. He gasped from the flashbacks. He looked at the people in front of him. "Where are they?" Carter tossed the bag in the trash can. "Where's who?" "Don't lie to me! You're part of the ADIEU, aren't you?!" He struggled to get out of the ropes. Shaking the chair. "Where's my family?! What did you do to them?!" Nate bent down. Placing a hand on his knee. "It's alright. We're not with the ADIEU. We stopped them from hurting people. Now, we might be able to locate your family if you give us your name." "It's Leo! Leo Knight!" He frowned. "I'm afraid your family is dead." "What?! That's not true! You're lying!" "Look back, Leo. I saw in your memories what you did. Please tell me what you remember. When was the last time you saw them?" "I-I...." A flash of Sky's frightened teary eyed face appeared. "I remembered Sky. My daughter...She was crying." He saw his wife bursting into tears. They were chained up by their wrists. "Ava....My wife. They were crying. Chained up for some reason. Then Sky said, 'Daddy stop! Daddy please stop it!'" As he recollected it all, he became almost surreal. He shut his eyes. He flinched as a pounding headache took him over. "I was holding a needle." "What color was the liquid?" "Red. I hear a voice. It sounds like it's coming from a microphone. Some kind of speaker." "What are they saying?" "To inject the needle into Sky's arm but I don't want to. But why am I not stopping? I can hear her telling me to stop but I can't!" He starts moving the chair again. "No! I'm putting it in her! Stop it! Why can't I stop?! STOP!" "Leo!" He gasped as he opened his eyes. He suddenly starts sobbing. "You killed them, didn't you?" "Th-They told me...." He lowered his head. "To put the vampire blood in them. And I did." Nate paused. "Werewolves. You fell in love with a werewolf and she gave birth to a half wolf half human child." "They burned from the inside out! It was horrible!" He shook his head. "And I killed them!" He let out a pained angry scream as he leaned back. Facing the ceiling. Shadowess - March 13, 2021 As Leo's memories returned and he explained everything that happened to him and his family, all the others could do was listen in a stunned silence. Tom had placed a hand over his own mouth, leaning against the wall as tears rolled down his cheeks, fighting the urge to vomit. Parker watched in silent rage at ADIEU, thankful that Charles had destroyed their facility. Sebastian couldn't hold back his own vomit. As Leo described what had happened to his family, he had to hurry off to the bathroom to throw up, having his own flashbacks of Patience's death. "You didn't kill them." Parker said suddenly, after a few minutes of silence. His voice was laced with anger. "ADIEU killed them. The gun might've been in your hands but ADIEU pulled the trigger. You had no control or choice. They took that from you. Because that's what ADIEU does. I mean, Christ, it's in the damn name! Adieu means goodbye! Fucking monsters! I'm glad they're fucking gone! I hope they're all rotting in Hell!" Denix Vames - March 13, 2021 Carter followed Sebastian. He leaned against the wall near the bathroom. He frowned. "You gonna be ok?" "Let's get you out of these." Nate untied the ropes. Leo hopped out of the chair. Knocking it over. He grabbed a kitchen knife out a drawer. "Hey! Stop!" Nate gripped his wrist. He looked into his eyes. "Doing this isn't going to help you or your family. Think about what they would want from you." Leo let the knife go as he broke into a sobbing mess. He fell to his knees. Nate held him close. "Parker told you everything. You have nothing to worry about now. And I know that your family is doing just fine in Heaven." Leo's breathing slowed to a much calmer pace as he heard this. Shadowess - March 13, 2021 Sebastian caught his breath, sitting back from the toilet and wiping his mouth with tissue. He looked at Carter tearfully and shrugged. "I'll have to be." He said weakly. "Just when we thought we were done with them once and for all...But then again they caused a lot of people a lot of damage and grief..." He wiped away his tears. "The weapons Leo had...we have to destroy them. We can't let anyone else get their hands on them or worse, learn of their existence and try to manufacture more...the world is harsh enough for our kind as it is..." Tom watched as Nate stopped Leo from hurting himself or anyone else then comforted him. With a small frown, he moved to the kitchen cupboards and took out a glass which he then filled with water before bringing it to Leo. "Here..." He said quietly as he knelt down next to them and offered it to Leo. He wasn't sure how else he could help. Parker had gone quiet after watching what Leo had tried to do. Nate and Tom seemed to have things under control. He sighed heavily and glanced out of the window...to see orange eyes staring back at him. His heart skipped a beat and his mind raced. Without thinking he darted from the kitchen to the front door, swinging it open. "Hey!" He shouted as the hooded figure ran. He ran after them, taking long strides to try to catch up to them. "Stop!" He barked as they leapt over a fence. Parker kept going, jumping over the fence after them. The figure glanced back, seeing Parker still on their tale, they didn't slow down. When Parker got close enough, he reached out a hand to grab the cloak. Just as he gripped it, it fell off the figure and the person that had been wearing it seemed to vanish. Parker ground to a halt, panting. Cloak still in his hand as he looked around, confused. Frowning, he turned and started walking back to Carter's house. Annoyed that he'd been so close to catching whoever had been watching them. --- Only moments after Nate had knocked Leo out and taken him to Carter's house, Desi re-appeared in Parkers apartment. Having had the bullet removed, he had bandages around his abdomen and hid in the bedroom of the apartment in case the shooter was still around. Everything was quiet though as he pressed his ear to the bedroom door. Quietly and carefully, he opened the door and looked around. Bryce was on the ground but everyone else had gone. He sighed, looking down at Bryce and watching the red foam drip from his mouth. "Now, I'm not having this...our fun was ended far too quickly." He said. He had no idea if Bryce could even hear him anymore in this state. He knelt next to him and stroked his cheek before checking his pulse. It was weak but he wasn't gone just yet. A few more seconds and he'd be in Hell again...Which would be a pain in the ass for Desi. Those rituals weren't easy to perform...then there's the contract they signed... "You didn't think I'd abandon my newest project, did you?" He said softly as he wiped the foam away from Bryce's mouth then cut his wrist on a dagger in his belt. He poured his blood into Bryce's mouth. "I don't know if this will even work, mind you. But hey, what better time to find out? and if it does work...well, I think you and I need to have a chat about whether this Carter fella is really worth the trouble, hmm?" He said this as he dug his fingers into the bullet wound in Bryce's head, pulling out the bullet and throwing it to one side. Denix Vames - March 13, 2021 Carter placed a hand over his back. "I'm sure Nate will be able to destroy them." Leo took it with shaky hands. He drank slow to savor the water until it was all gone. "Got anything stronger?" "No but I can do this." ,said Nate as a bottle of whiskey appeared. Leo's eyes widened. "You're a lifesaver." He grabbed the bottle and sat at the table where he poured some of the whiskey in the cup. He drank that down fast. He let out a sigh of relief. Nate yanked the cloak out of his hand. "That was stupid of you. Especially after what happened to Carter and Vincent." He sniffed the cloak then cringed. "Smells like a trickster." ----- Bryce's bullet wound began to heal until it reached the tip where it left an X marked scar. He gasped for air as his skin became pale once again. He sat up. "Wha....? What happened?" shadowess - March 13, 2021 Sebastian nodded, getting back to his feet. He turned and wrapped his arms around Carter. "I was so scared...I thought I was going to lose you..." He whispered, resting his head against Carter's as more tears fell. Tom stood back when Nate handed him the whiskey. He moved to lean against the counters as Parker walked back in and Nate scolded him for running off. Parker lifted both his hands by his sides "I'm not going to sit around, twiddle my thumbs and wait for shit to happen. If I see a bad guy, I'm guna chase the bad guy." He huffed as he walked into the living room and threw himself into one of the chairs. He knew it had been a foolish thing to do, but he hated feeling so helpless. As he sat there he heard his own voice in his head. The voice of his other self. 'You would have caught them if you weren't human.' Parker shut his eyes and covered his face while whispering into his hands. "Stop it! Stop it! Stop it! I don't need you!" Tom had stepped forward when Nate said he could smell the trickster. "He was here!? I thought that would've been another spy or something!" He glanced out of the windows warily. There was no one there but knowing the trickster had been watching them without them knowing was alarming. --- "What happened, my friend, is we just discovered that Demon blood is indeed an antidote to werewolf venom in vampires." Desi said while wrapping his wrist in a towel from the kitchen. "The bullet laying next to you was laced in wolf venom. We were all attacked by some sort of hunter." He then pointed to the bandages around his waist. "Bastard got a lucky shot at me as well. Bullets made from Angelic steel. He knew what he was doing...and I was so close to ending that other Demon!" He couldn't mask the absolute rage in his tone as he talked. "...Another second more and you'd be dead...again. We need to find a new hiding place in case he returns."

Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 Elliot stopped and looked at her. He sighed. "Guess you're right." He picked her up. Holding her in his arms. "C'mon Neva. Let's back inside." He raised a brow at Parker. "Uh no?" Kite's face grew pale. "The same crow that I saw earlier? Is somebody watching us?" "Yes they are and I intend to find out who." ,said Nate who appeared. ---- Carter suddenly felt entrance by Bryce. He smiled at him with those loving eyes. "Yes I do." Carter kicked Sebastian away from Bryce. He glared "Don't you dare touch him!" Vincent glared. "Fellow bastard." He ran up to him with his knife raised. He dodged an attack as he said, "This Incubus put Carter under a spell! You have to break it!" He stabbed Desi's arm. Shadowess - March 12, 2021 Neva had started shaking at the mention of a crow. "S-spy!" She whimpered. Ricky would know where she was and who she was with! Tom looked up when he heard Nate's voice, his eyes softening and his heart beating a little harder. He might have been mad at him, but there wasn't any doubt that he'd missed him terribly. "Boy, am I glad to see you!" He smiled tearfully. Neva stared at Parker curiously. --- Desi had attempted to swing a backhand at Vincent as he ran up to him but missed and wound up with a stab wound in his arm instead. He took a swift step back, grunting then looked at his wound. He grinned, his eyes lit up excitedly as he licked at his wound and moaned softly. "Thank ya sir, may I have another?" He chuckled maniacally, goading Vincent. The next time Vincent would swing his knife at him, Desi aimed to grip his wrist and twist it sharply to break his bones. At first Sebastian had been confused by Carter's reaction but Vincent told him it was a spell and he turned his attention to Carter while keeping Bryce in his line of vision, not trusting him for a second. "Carter, snap out of it! Bryce is evil! He needs to be stopped! Carter, please hear me! I love you!" Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 Elliot kept her close. Gripping her tight. "She can't stay here!" "We can head to my apartment. She'll be safe there." ,said Kite. Elliot nodded. He placed Neva at the backseat. He got in the car with Kite at the passenger side. They drove off. Neva shyly smiled. "It's good to see you too. And I'm sorry about what I did." He walked into the house. "Can someone please tell me who is after Neva? And why did they send a spy?" ----- Vincent cried out as he felt his bones break. He kicked him off. "A kiss! It has to be a kiss!" Bryce glared. "Don't let him kiss you my dear." Carter nodded. He ran up to Sebastian and punched him. Vincent staggered back. His knife was near Desi's feet. "Damn it!" He clutched to his broken wrist. He grabbed a receiver off a phone and threw it at him. Shadowess - March 12, 2021 Hearing Nate apologize, Tom smiled and nodded while holding back his tears. His silent way of saying he'd forgiven him. Parker and Tom followed Nate back into the house. Parker had also missed out on the details in regards to Neva so was curious to know what was going on. "Some criminal called Rickster the Trickster. All I know is Neva is terrified of the guy. Says he used to hurt her if she didn't steal for him and that he'll kill her if he found out she ran away and snitched on him." Tom explains briefly. "The kids got powers too. She made the house cold and the lights go weird when she got upset. So if this guy was able to keep hurting her then he might have powers of some kind too." ---- Desi stumbled back from the kick and chuckled. "Oh, I do love it when they scream." He purred. He'd followed Vincent's eye line to the knife and grinned. He bent down to pick it up when the receiver struck his head and he stumbled back again, gripping the spot the receiver had hit him. He turned and grabbed a nearby lamp, throwing it at Vincent. Hearing Vincent, Sebastian had stepped towards Carter. Only for Carter to strike him across the face, causing him to turn on the spot and land face down on the floor in a daze. "C-Carter!" He gasped, scrambling to get to his feet to face him again, feeling dizzy from the punch. Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 "Then he must be stopped. I need a location on him." ,said Nate. ----- Elliot parked the car at the huge parking lot. "You'll be safe with me here. Don't worry." He held her hand as they followed Kite to his apartment. Taking the elevator and finding their way to his door. Kite unlocked the door and let them in. He quickly locked it before anyone else could see them. He drew the curtains in. Covering the windows. "Just in case that little birdy tries to look for you." ------ Vincent shook his head. "And I thought I was fucked up." He ducked. Missing the lamp. He quickly twisted his wrist back in place with a cry. He grabbed the coffee table and swung it at him. Bryce chuckled. "You're doing a great job Carter." Carter wrapped his hand around Sebastian's neck. He slammed him against the wall. His fangs came out. He hissed. Shadowess - March 12, 2021 "No kidding." Tom said as he took a seat at the kitchen table. He sighed. "That crow was the first sign of any contact from him since Neva arrived. We don't know where he is or what he looks like but we know he's out there looking for Neva." --- Neva followed them into the apartment. She watched as Kite quickly shut all of the curtains and locked them in. Frightened that she might be found and knowing that Ricky was looking for her, Neva covered her face with her hands and began to cry. "H-He's not guna stop!" She sobbed. --- Desi brought both his hands up to catch the end of the coffee table then swiftly shoved it back into Vincent's chest to force him back and hopefully break a rib or two in the process. He would then throw it to one side where it would shatter from the force of it hitting the wall. He cracked his knuckles, striding towards Vincent. "Time to put you in your place." Sebastian gasped when Carter gripped his neck. He then cried out and gasped again when he hit the wall. He struggled to breath as Carter pressed him against the wall. Sebastian brought a hand up to grip Carter's wrist, looking at him with pleading eyes as Carter hissed at him. He might not get another chance. Moving quickly, Sebastian brought a fist down on Carter's elbow to force him to release him, then moved forward. Bringing both his hands up to grip Carter's head, he leant in, pressing his lips against Carter's. Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 "Then you two will stay here and wait for anything or anyone to make their move. I will watch over the city and see what I can find." ,said Nate. ----- "Not unless I have something to say about it." ,said Elliot. "And I'm a cop Neva. I can get him arrested." ,said Kite. ----- Vincent grit his teeth at the broken ribs. He fell to his knees as he clutched his arm. Carter flinched as he let him go. His eyes widened at the touch of his lips. "NO!" ,said Bryce. Carter found himself confused and awake as he looked at him. "Sebastian?" A man kicked the door down. He wore black pants, tight matching neck sweater, a dark brown jacket, leather gloves, and boots. He held two handguns. He had brown eyes and dark brown bangs. He aimed at Bryce. Taking him out with one bullet to the head. Bryce collapsed. His skin was turning yellow as he foamed from the mouth. "Look out!" Carter tackled Sebastian down. They barely dodged a bullet which hit the wall. The man fired a different gun at Desi who collapsed from the angel bullet. He fired again at Vincent who got one on his leg as he threw himself behind a chair. "We need to take him out! But don't kill him!" ,shouted Vincent. Shadowess - March 12, 2021 Tom nodded. Parker stood with his back against the wall and his arms folded. "How do we contact you if they decide to turn up here?" --- Neva turned to Elliot and hugged him, still crying. ---- Desi had been momentarily distracted by Bryce's scream when the stranger kicked the door down. He saw Bryce get shot and go down then he felt something strike his stomach. He fell to his knees and screamed as the bullet burned him. "A-angelic steel?!" He cried out as he watched the stranger also try to shoot the others. Well, time to go! Before the stranger could get another shot at him, Desi vanished. Retreating to Hell to get the bullet pulled out before it could destroy him. Sebastian hid behind the couch with Carter and looked over at Vincent when he suggested they try to take this stranger on. He could see small puffs of smoke coming from Vincent's wound and recalled what Amelia had said when David had been shot. If they didn't pull that bullet out quick, Vincent was done for. By the looks of Bryce, this guy also had the Lupusbolt which would kill either himself or Carter instantly if a bullet hit them. "Too dangerous! We have to get out of here, now!" He gripped Carter and Vincent. "Get us out of here!" Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 "Through thoughts. I can read anyone's mind." Nate hesitantly placed a hand over Tom's shoulder. "Please stay safe." He suddenly disappeared. ----- Elliot frowned. "It's alright. I'm right here. You're safe." Kite nodded at a door. "She can sleep in my bed." "Thanks." Elliot carried her over there. Bringing her to the bedroom which was a mess. He placed her on the bed. Sitting at the edge of it. "I ain't gonna leave ya. Ever." ----- Vincent teleported them to Carter's house. He squirmed as he groaned. Writing in agony from the bullet embedded in his leg. ----- The man's eyes widened as he fell over. Having been knocked out by Nate. "I don't like it when anyone hurts my friends." He placed his weapons back in their holsters and picked him up by his collar. He appeared in front of everybody once again. "I believe you were looking for this man?" He let him fall. "I'll go cover our tracks. In the meantime, you should secure his weapons and tie him up. Question his motives." He disappeared. (so this new character is basically the last surviving hunter who knows more than Tom. and I'm gonna have it where he's only still working for a personal reason. I want him to get accepted into the family but it will take time. first I'm gonna make him stubborn. He doesn't have a name. Just numbers. I figured someone will name him once they get comfortable with him.) shadowess - March 12, 2021 (I like it ) "You too." Tom said softly, watching Nate vanish. Only a moment later, Vincent, Carter and Sebastian appeared on the kitchen floor. Vincent apparently in pain and all of them looking roughed up. "Holy shit!" Parker stepped away from the wall. Sebastian looked around quickly at Tom and Parker. "Tweezers! Now!" Parker nodded and ran upstairs to the bathroom to search for tweezers. Sebastian then turned to Tom. "Hold Vincent down while we get the bullet out." Tom nodded as well, moving to Vincent's side, gently but firmly holding his shoulders down. Parker ran back into the room and passed him the tweezers. Sebastian gripped Vincent's leg, pinning it down against the floor. "Someone give him something to bite down on. This is going to hurt." He then pushed the tweezers into the wound, digging into it until he found the bullet and got a good grip on it. He pulled it out quickly and threw it in the sink. He then grabbed a kitchen towel and pressed it against Vincent's leg while nodding to Tom to let him know he could let go now. That was too close. "What the hell happened?!" Parker asked but before any of them could answer, Nate reappeared with the now unconscious gunman. "He happened." Sebastian answered, staring at the gunman. Nate suggested the tie him up and disarm him. Which is exactly what they did as soon as he left. Quickly, they removed all of his weapons and tied him to one of the kitchen chairs, placing him in the center of the kitchen where he wouldn't be near anything. --- Neva cried quietly as Elliot sat with her on the bed. She nodded at his words, finding comfort in them. But as long as Ricky was out there and looking for her, she'd never truly feel safe. Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 (awesome) Carter pulled his belt off. He placed it into Vincent's mouth. Vincent clamped down on it as the bullet was being pulled out of him. He let out muffled screams as he struggled against Tom's hold. Once the bullet was out, his grip on the belt loosened. Letting it fall out of his mouth and onto the floor. Carter bent down to the man's level. "Wake up." He splashed some cold water on his face from a cup. The man gasped as he instantly woke up. He shook his head. Carter threw the cup aside. He punched him in the gut. Breaking a few ribs. "Ah!" "I said to wake up." The man caught his breath as he looked around. Glaring at them. He moved one of his tooths. Swallowing it. Nate appeared. He placed a hand on his head. The man struggled to get out of the ropes. The cyanide in his system was gone. His ribs were healed. "I said question. Don't torture unless you have to." He patted the man's cheek. He smiled. "You're welcome."

Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 Bryce sat across from him. He glanced at her. "Oh. Not too long." ----- Kite was shocked by his panic and what he was saying. He raised his hands. "Alright. Just slow down. Take a deep breath and tell me everything from the start." ------ Elliot and Vincent had been having a private moment together of cuddling and kissing on the couch. They heard the knock on the door. Vincent opened it. He smiled. "Hey Tom. Good to see you. So far, nothing has happened." Elliot smiled at Neva. "Hey there. Slept well?" ------ Carter sighed. "Sorry about that." "Hey, I don't blame you. Now have fun you two lovebirds." ,said Blaire. He rolled his eyes but smiled. "We will!" They left the club. "So, what store are we thinking of shopping at?" shadowess - March 12, 2021 Lucy heard them talking and when Bryce looked at her she shivered, whimpering, her eyes widening a little. She knew she only had a short amount of time left to live if Parker didn't meet his demands. She had little hope of him succeeding too. Why would be bother saving someone like her? She started looking around for ways to escape or places she could hide. She couldn't get to the door without having to run past them and he would catch her before she'd reach it anyway. Her eyes moved towards the bathroom. She might be able to buy herself a bit of time by locking herself in there. Maybe if she opened the window in there she could scream for help... Desi grinned at his answer. "Good. I am itching to have some fun!" He laughed. --- "There's no time! We have to find the others! They'll know what to do! C'mon! Let's go!" Parker despaired, gesturing towards the door, tears running down his face. "Please! If we take too long he'll kill her!!" Outside, the crow was perched on a nearby fence, watching the house intently. Waiting to follow the next person to leave. --- "Oh, that's good!" Tom said as he stepped inside and closed the door behind him. He looked up and smiled at Neva as she came down the stairs. "Hey kiddo!" Still smiling, Neva waved at Tom and nodded at Elliot. "Can we watch some more TV?" She asked in a small voice. --- Sebastian grinned at the question and turned his head to look Carter up and down as they walked towards Carter's house to get Sebastian's card from Elliot. "Well, Detective Carter, we need to get you some decent suits. You'll need to look presentable for your business after all. I was thinking...some Martin Greenfield suits." He joked. A single one of those suits could cost upwards of hundreds of thousands of dollars. Sebastian wasn't exactly strapped for cash but he wasn't a millionaire either. A shame really, he'd love nothing more than to treat Carter to such fine things. "I think you'd look pretty dapper in one of those!" He chuckled. "Perhaps we could visit one of the local tailors?" he then suggested. Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 "Don't even bother. I can read your thoughts and I know what you're about to try and do, Lucy." ,said Bryce. He chuckled. ----- Kite placed his hands on his shoulders. "Ok! Look! If this is a hostage situation, the last thing we want to do is tell a whole lot of people about this. How about I disguise myself as the person that they apparently want? You can hide my face by blindfolding my eyes and mouth. Tying me up. All that crap. Once they get me to their place and loosen everything, I'll open fire on their asses. Trust me. I'll know who's the bad guy in this scenario." ------ "Of course. Let's see what we've got." Elliot sat on the couch with Neva as they were watching an old cowboy show called Rawhide. ----- "Oh god!" Carter rolled his eyes. "I rather not be wearing a monkey suit. I'll stick to no coat and rolled up sleeves on the added bonus of putting my tie on however I want it." He raised a brow. "Tailor? Nobody does that anymore. It's pretty rare to find a tailor these days." shadowess - March 12, 2021 At Bryce's words, Lucy hesitates. Staring at him with wide eyes as she realized she couldn't hide any intentions from him. "Why are you doing this?!" She cried, not moving from the corner. Desi didn't move nor speak. Merely watched with mild interest and feeling a sense of pride in Bryce for using the gift he gave him. "L-look, you don't have to k-ki-..." She couldn't bring herself to say it. "J-just let me go. Please. He doesn't have to know that I'm not here! I'll skip town. I won't tell anyone about this, I swear! I'll do anything you want! Anything! Please!" She tried, her desperation to survive growing. Desi couldn't help chuckling at her begging. "Ahh, the bargaining stage! Back your prey into a corner and they'll promise the world to save their own skin!" He tutted. "So selfish." --- Parker stopped pacing when Kite placed his hands on his shoulders and he paused to listen, taking some deep breaths and trying to think as he did so. In theory, not a bad idea. There was just one problem. Parker shook his head. "He's a vampire though, and if I know Bryce, he'll kill you as soon as he realizes you're not Carter. Lucy too. Not only that but he mentioned someone else was with him so for all we know there are two vampires that can move faster than us and are stronger than us!" He shook his head again. "If we can't tell them all, we could at least tell one of them! We can't do this alone!" --- Neva grinned and ran excitedly to the couch, flopping herself onto it next to Elliot to watch TV. She didn't seem to mind what was on, as long as she actually got to watch it. To Neva, this was a luxury that she wasn't used to yet. "She seems to be getting more confident." Tom noted before heading into the kitchen and heading towards the fridge. He took out one of the bags and leant against the counter to drink it. --- Sebastian laughed out loud at Carter's comment about the suits. "Just as well, I think that look suits you!" He chuckled, swooping in to kiss his cheek. He then blinked at Carter as he told him that Tailors weren't a thing anymore. "Oh, really?" he sounded disappointed. "That's a shame. Oh well, I guess you'll have to show me your preferred stores for what you want to wear." He smiled. It didn't take them too much longer to reach Carter's house. Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 Bryce walked over and knelt in front of her. "I need Carter to come back into my life. Once he's with me, you can go. And if he's not with me then you can die. That's it." ----- Kite sighed. "Fine. I'll drive over there." He stepped out of the house. He jumped at the sound of a crow. He swatted at it. "Get away from here! Shoo!" ----- Vincent walked over to the kitchen. He smiled. "That's pretty good. It'd be nice to bring her to a mall. Let her have fun." ----- Carter shrugged. "I don't really have any. But I'll show you which stores I normally go to." He knocked on the door. Elliot opened it. "Well hello! Good to see you two." "Hey Elliot. Mind if we have Sebastian's card back?" "Sure thing." He handed it back to him. "Thanks man. We're just about to go out right now." "That's awesome! Hope ya'll enjoy it." Carter got a sudden ringing on his phone. He handed Sebastian the card and picked it up. "Hello?" "Hey dear Carter! It's so good to see you." He tensed up as he heard his voice. "Who is this?" "Oh my. Did you forget your dear old lover? Bryce?" "What do you want?" "Well, I got tired of waiting so I thought why not call you? Anyway, if you don't come here then I'm going to kill this woman here." He glared. "And why should I believe you?" He heard a woman's scream. He walked away from Sebastian. "Alright. I'll go. Just don't hurt her." "That's the spirit. Now, I want you to go somewhere where no one can see you. Once you do that, I'll have Desi fetch you. Now go." He put his phone away as the call had ended. He looked at Sebastian with those loving but sadden eyes. "I'm doing this to protect you guys. Don't come looking for me." He zoomed past them. He made it to the corner of a fence. He suddenly felt a hand cover his mouth and grip him tight. He struggled as he disappeared with his captor. Shadowess - March 12, 2021 Relieved that Kite agreed to get help, Parker left the house with him. He couldn't just sit around and wait for news. He rushed over to the car while Kite was preoccupied with the crow. "Kite, c'mon! Forget the bird!" ---- With his card now in his pocket, Sebastian was looking forward to spending the evening shopping with Carter. He watched Carter answer his phone and as Carter seemed to become more distressed, Sebastian had a sinking feeling in his gut. Something was wrong. Very wrong. When he hung up the phone and turned to them, Sebastian's breath caught in his throat. "What? Carter, wait-!" Carter ran past him and he turned to face the direction he'd run in. "CARTER!" He shouted, running after him. Carter rounded a corner ahead of him but when Sebastian reached it, Carter was gone. His scent running cold. He looked around and around, panicking but saw no sign of him. "CARTER!!" He screamed, an awful feeling in the pit of his stomach. As he began to breathe heavily, he picked up another scent. A sour scent. "Demon!" He gasped. Then recalled the Demon that Blaire had called them about. "N-no..." He groaned, still looking around. He ran back to Carter's house. Tears streaming down his face and arrived in time to se Kite and Parker pull up. "Someone's taken Carter!" He cried, though his eyes were full of fury. Stepping out of the car, Parker had heard Sebastian and knew it had to be Bryce. "Bryce called me! He has Lucy. He wanted to trade Carter for her-" Sebastian's furious eyes landed on Parker who immediately put his hands up. "-So, me and Kite came here to get help!" he finished. Sebastian's angry eyes seemed to soften a little. Of course Parker wouldn't betray them. "A distraction..." He assumed, seething. "He called you first as a distraction...That has to be it..." Neva had been poking her head out of the door to see the commotion. She didn't notice the crow on a nearby rooftop staring at her. The same crow had followed Kite's car. "He has a Demon helping him." Sebastian said. "I caught the scent when Carter vanished. They must've teleported away because the scent went cold." He clenched his fists. "I'll kill him for this." He growled. His eyes, which were usually soft and warm were now cold and dark. Tom had also stepped out of the house when the commotion had started. Hearing it was a Demon who took Carter made him wish Nate was still around. He looked back at Vincent. Vincent could teleport. "Well, I'm ready for a fight. How about you?" He asked. "No." Sebastian said, looking over at Tom. "Bryce is mine." He growled then looked at Vincent. "Can you take me to them?" ---- Desi let go of Carter once they were back in Parker's apartment. "Your prize, beautiful one." He announced upon their arrival. Lucy was still huddled in the corner, cowering and whimpering. When she saw Desi and Carter appear in the room, she looked at Bryce tearfully. "Please let me go. Please." Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 The crow's head was mysteriously cut off. Vincent frowned. "If this is two versus two, I guess it would be a fair fight. But I need someone to protect Neva." "Can I come too?" ,asked Elliot. "Absolutely not! You have to stay here with her." "Why not?" "Because I don't want you to get hurt!" "So what? You're saying I can't protect myself?" "I'm not having this conversation right now with you." Elliot glared. "You know what? Forget it!" He stormed out of the house. Going down the street. "What are you doing?!" "Taking a walk! So leave me alone!" Vincent sighed. "Somebody please stop him. I don't want anyone to take any more of us." He placed a hand on Sebastian's arm. "C'mon." They disappeared. ----- Bryce opened the door. "As promised, you can go." He watched her leave then locked the door. Carter glared. "You son of a bitch! I don't know how you're alive right now but I'm going to make you dead!" He swung a punch. Bryce dodged many of them. He grabbed Carter's arm and kicked his gut. Carter gasped and coughed up a storm. Bryce wrapped a hand around his neck and slammed him against the wall. "Oh dear. I really didn't want to have to do that. You have such a pretty face." He leaned in and sniffed him. "But you left me no choice." Carter grit his teeth. He gripped his wrist. "Go to hell!" He spat at him. Bryce wiped it off with his sleeve. He chuckled. "So feisty. I like that." He licked his cheek. Carter cringed. Bryce let him fall. Carter coughed as he caught his breath. "Now, I need to find a way to make you listen. Desi? Would you mind helping me out here?" shadowess - March 12, 2021 Sensing danger and just when it seemed it had been killed, the crow vanished into a puff of smoke. "I got it." Tom said and before he could start running after Elliot, Neva had already run ahead and gripped his hand. She didn't try to stop him or pull him back but she rested her head on his arm while walking alongside him. Sighing, Tom caught up to them and walked along with him as well with his hands in his pockets. "Hey man, I get you're angry but it's not a good idea to wander too far from the others." He looked down at Neva. "For her sake." Parker had been staring at the rooftops in confusion. "Did-...did anyone else just see a bird randomly explode?..." --- Desi watched, amused, as Bryce fought Carter and pinned him to the wall. "I have just the thing." he said as he stepped forward and helped Carter to his feet, emitting his aura to make Carter more compliant. Whether it worked or how well it worked would depend entirely on how strong Carter's willpower was though. He turned Carter to look at Bryce, "Don't you want to hear what Bryce has to say, Carter?" He asked in a soothing tone. Sebastian and Vincent appeared in the room and as soon as Sebastian's eyes landed on Bryce, his pupils shrank in rage. "You!" He growled and unable to stop himself he lunged at Bryce furiously. Desi turned to look at the other Demon and grinned. His mind was always blocked to others so he had no worries there, although he couldn't help but notice that Vincent's mind was also blocked. "Fellow Demon." He greeted, almost pleasantly. His aura still being emitted.

Shadowess - March 11, 2021 ( No worries. It's when a character explains something integral to the plot without breaking the fourth wall or when they summarize the plot so far.) "So, I see." Desi chuckles as the vampire next to him had paid for his drink and eagerly moved over to sit next to him. "Yes, I think I'm going to like it here." He said as he lifted his glass to the vampire. "Cheers, beautiful." He took a sip. Before long, his glass was empty and he was letting the vampire lead him to one of the private rooms for some fun. --- Sebastian was cuddled up to one of the pillows when Carter entered the room, sleeping lightly. He heard the door click and blinked his eyes open while looking over his shoulder with a smile. "Hey." He breathed sleepily. "You're awake early." --- Lucy had yelped when she was pulled into the apartment. The door was slammed shut and she felt herself being pushed down before she could react or even see who was pushing her. He'd been moving too fast for her to see him. "What the-?!" She'd started then inhaled sharply when she felt the pain in her throat. She struggled but it was like trying to move concrete. Whoever he was, she just didn't have the strength to push him off. "S-stop it!" She'd gasped then felt a wave of numbness wash over her, making her too tired to keep fighting. She stared up at the ceiling, confused and frightened as she felt herself growing steadily weaker. "P-Parker! Help! Please!" She cried deliriously. She could hear the stranger swallowing her blood as her breathing became a little harder. She groaned as she came to an impossible realization. "V-Vampire! N-no!" She groaned again, tears rolling down the sides of her face. "P-please...I don't want to die..." She begged, her vision beginning to swim. "P-please! I'll do anything!" Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 (i get it now) Blaire raised a brow as the two went into the private room. She had her suspicions but wasn't so sure if she was right. Still, she had to do something about this. "Take over for me Hades." She stepped out of the club and leaned against the wall near the parking lot. She called up Carter. ---- Carter smiled. "Yeah. Figured I had enough sleep. Kite's fine by the way. I got a call from him. He's working right now." Just as he mentioned about a call, his phone rang again. He answered. "Blaire?" "Carter, there's someone here but I don't know if they're just a customer or something else." "What do you mean by that?" "This guy came in. He didn't seem like the vampires. I don't know. He gave me some weird vibes. I think you guys should come down here. Just to be safe." "I'll be there with a few of us. Please stay safe and don't try to do anything. Stick to being the bartender in this situation." "Got it." She hung up and headed back into the bar. He sighed. "For one day, I'd like to get some peace and quiet. Just for once." He looked at Sebastian. "That was Blaire. She wants us to head over to the bar right now. Apparently, there's a weird man hanging around the bar. She said he didn't seem human but he was nothing like a vampire. My money is on demon but that doesn't make any sense. Why would a demon be at a vampire club?" ----- "Anything huh?" Bryce stopped drinking. He sat up. "Then I need you to help me find Parker. It's the only way I can find his friend Carter. Do you have his number?" shadowess - March 12, 2021 "Oh, that's good." Sebastian smiled sleepily at the news that Kite was alright. He watched as Carter answered his phone again then chuckled when he heard what the call had been about. He shrugged. "Even if it is a Demon, that doesn't mean it's a bad thing. The ones we know aren't the only ones who spend time on Earth. According to Damien, Earth is full of Demons who occasionally like to pretend to be human and spend a lifetime on Earth. Some just visit for the fun of it. Who knows. Maybe this Demon just happens to have a vampire fetish?" He then got up and stretched, picking up his clothes and putting them on. "If it makes you feel more comfortable though, then there's no harm in checking it out." --- The fangs left her neck and she heard his words, shivering at his question. She felt drunk from his venom and her muscles ached from the blood he took from her. Tearful eyes looked at him fearfully, seeing her own blood on his lips. Woozy and whimpering, she sat up, covering the wound in her neck with one hand while she reached for the little purse, that she'd dropped when he'd grabbed her, with her other hand. Clumsily, she gripped the strap and pulled it across the floor to them where she opened it and passed him her phone. She was shaking violently. "H-he hasn't been answering my calls though." She slurred. Her eyes darted to the door and then back at him. "Y-you're not going to hurt him, are you?" Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 "Really? I had no idea." He threw his jacket on. "But either way, I still want to make sure everything's alright there. So many things has happened to us that I just need to be careful." He sniffed at his jacket. "I really need some new clothes." ----- "And why would that matter? You never cared about him. You're a slut who displays your naked body for money." He took her phone and called Parker up. "Hush now. I have to make an important call." shadowess - March 12, 2021 Sebastian chuckled. "That reminds me, I need to get my card back from Elliot. Maybe, if everything is alright, we can go shopping later?" He said as they made their way downstairs. Tom also seemed to be getting ready to go out when they got down there. "Hey, just guna swing by your place and check on Neva now that the sun's down." He said when he saw them. Sebastian nods. "We're just going to check something out at the club. We'll be going over there as well when we're done." ---- When he'd finished having his fun with the vampire, Desi wasted no time. He quickly redressed himself, not wanting to spend any more time here than he had to. The vampire lay on the bed, panting, covered in sweat and smiling up at him in a drunken state. "Do you have to leave?" He slurred his complaint and Desi turned to smile at him. He walked over, bent down and kissed him passionately. "Yes, sweet lover. But don't worry. There's always a chance that you'll see me again." He whispered as he stood straight again. "Can I get your num-?" As the vampire asked this, Desi vanished. He blinked, looking around the room before letting his head drop back onto the pillow in a huff. "Great...guess not..." He groaned. ---- His words had hurt Lucy and she could do nothing but stare at him as her tears fell. Too frightened to make a noise in case he hurt her for it and feeling too drunk and weak to be able to make a run for it. Hand still on her neck, she shuffled away from him to lean her side by the wall, bringing her knees up and turning her face to the wall as she cried quietly. Her entire body visibly shaking. She saw movement in the corner of her eye which made her jump and she looked up to see a new stranger with blond hair leaning against the front door with his arms folded. He looked at Bryce with the phone to his ear and smiled. He then turned his head towards Lucy and smiled a little wider before holding a finger over his lips, signaling to her to stay quiet. While Bryce was on the phone, he looked back at him and took out the business card he'd found. He passed it silently to Bryce. ---- After their conversation, Parker had decided to get a little air. He was glad Tom forgave him and having spoken to him had done them both some good. Tom hadn't really said it but Parker could tell he was starting to heal from it. Parker walked down the street with his hands in his pockets, just taking in the cool air. His phone vibrated in his pocket and he came to a slow stop, taking his phone out to look at who was calling. Lucy again. Parker sighed. He supposed she wasn't going to stop until she got either a solid 'no' or an explanation of what happened that night. He answered it and immediately began speaking. "Lucy, you really need to stop this. Look, you were right, ok? I'm not over him so it wouldn't be fair on you to start something. My heart just wouldn't be in it..." Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 "Hello there dear Parker. It's me. Your previous lover, Bryce Heathcliffe. Now be a good boy and bring Carter to me." He brought the phone over to Lucy and gripped her arm. Twisted it so that she felt pain but did not break it. "Do you recognize this scream?" He let her go once he felt like it was enough. "If that got you to understand then here's what I want. You will not show panic. You will convince Carter that you need his help. Anything that will make sense to have two people needed for a situation. And you will bring him to an alley. Desi will grab him for me. Don't worry about who he is. Once he has him, I will let Lucy go on the fact that she will promise to never speak of this. And you will never speak of this. If they ask about Carter then tell them that he killed himself. We'll stage his death. Get a vampire to burn under the sun so that they don't feel the need to search for him. Do you understand?" Once he got his answer, he smiled. "Good. Now, run along and get him before it's too late. Tick tock Alex." ----- Carter smiled. "Definitely. It'd be nice to get some fresh outfits for my work. And it would mean a date for us." He stepped out of the house with Sebastian. Shadowess - March 12, 2021 When Bryce had grabbed her arm and twisted it, Lucy let out a scream. She struggled to pull away, crying loudly while screaming at him "GET OFF ME! LET ME GO! PLEASE, LET ME GO!!" When he did let her go, she scrambled away from him into a far corner, curling up and crying into her knees while gripping her now sore and bruised arm. When Bryce hung up the phone, Desi did three slow claps. "Wonderful!" He chuckled. Still holding the business card, he once again tried to pass it to Bryce now that he wasn't busy on the phone. "I found piles of these in that bar. It would seem Carter has set up a little business for himself. There are contact details and an address on the back. Perhaps they might be useful?" He looked over at Lucy and smirked at how frightened she seemed. "You seem to have things under control. I will follow your lead." --- Parker's breath caught in his throat when he heard the voice on the other end of the phone. His features turned pale and when he heard Lucy screaming his heart beat harder. By the time Bryce asked if he understood, he was breathing a little heavier. "Y-yes..." He answered, his mind racing as he heard Bryce speaking again before hanging up the phone. He stared at his phone, his hand shaking. He felt tears welling up. What should he do?! He can't lie to Carter! Carter can tell when he's lying anyway! And he didn't want Bryce to get hold of him! He didn't want anyone to go through that! But he didn't want Lucy to get hurt either! His breathing became more and more rapid and he looked around, half expecting to be being watched. He turned and ran back towards the house, panicking. He burst through the door but when he looked around, no one was home. He paced in the living room, his hands on either side of his head as he struggled to breath. Crying. He had to do something! He just had to think of something! He had to save Lucy! He had to protect Carter! He had to-!... He had to...The room span rapidly and before he could do anything else, he collapsed, passing out. --- In Parker's mind he was back in that penthouse. Facing the other version of himself who was lounging on the couch and grinning up at him. "You need me." He gloated. "No." Parker shook his head, fearfully. "Yes, you do. You can do it all you know. Save your friends. Save the girl." Alex's smile slipped and he looked more angry. "Get revenge." "I don't need you...I don't need revenge and I don't need you!" Parker turned and hurried to the door, trying to open it but just as before, it was locked. "You need me." Alex said again, smiling once more. "When you've exhausted all your options and you see that you can't win as you are now...you'll do what you need to to win." Alex grinned. "You'll release me and we'll feast on him together. We'll destroy that son of a bitch once and for all and it will be..." Alex took a deep breath "brilliant!" he sighed. Parker leant his head against the door, crying. "I won't...I won't..." ------- Sebastian grinned at Carter when he said it'd be a date. He held his hand as they made their way to the club. Denix Vames - March 12, 2021 Bryce took the card. He read it over. "Hmm. I might be able to use this business for my own benefits." He grinned. "First, we wait for Bryce to fetch Carter. Then we let Lucy go and you will kill a vampire. They need to be in ashes to make this look real. And if he takes too long then we'll go there ourselves and kill them all except for Carter of course." ---- Kite knocked on the door. "Hello? Is anyone there? I came here to visit." ----- Elliot rubbed his eyes and yawned as he woke up. He looked across from himself. Neva was still sleeping. He smiled. Glad to see that she was at peace for once. He made sure to not cause any noise as he headed down the stairs to see Vincent. ---- Carter brushed his thumb over his hand sometimes during the walk. Once at the club, they walked. "Ya missed him. Looks like he was just another guy who wanted to fuck a vampire. He did grab your card though. So be prepared for that interaction at some point." ,said Blaire. He said sarcastically, "Oh, that's great. Just what I need. Another demon who wants to fuck me." "Could be worse." ,said Hades. "You could be wearing pink." shadowess - March 12, 2021 "Whatever you want." Desi smiled, knowing Bryce preferred to be in control. Desi didn't mind letting him take the lead. It made a nice change from being in charge all the time, plus he was eager to see the kind of chaos this vampire could create. He looked over at Lucy. He was half tempted to use his aura to settle her down but where was the fun in that? No, he quite enjoyed seeing the fear in her eyes as she stared back at them. "How long would you like to wait before slaughtering them?" He asked, moving to sit on the little couch with one leg over the other. --- Parker woke with a start at the sound of knocking. He looked towards the door, momentarily confused as to where he was. He looked around the room and couldn't see Alex anywhere. Just a dream. He then remembered what Bryce had said and his heart started beating hard again. He felt sick. He heard Kite's voice through the door and looked over again. Kite! Maybe he can help? He hurriedly got to his feet and rushed over to the door, opening it and looking at Kite with a frightened expression. "Quick, get in!" He said, opening the door enough for him to step into the house. Once he was in the house he'd shut the door behind him and start pacing. "I-I need help! H-he's guna kill her! I-I don't know where he is but he wants Carter or he's guna kill her!" He started rambling then paused, remembering the he and Kite were just human. "Th-the others...we've gotta go get the others! Th-they'll be at Carter's house. W-we gotta go! N-now!" --- Tom arrived at Carter's house and knocked on the door. He called through, "It's just me. Just seeing how you guys are doing." Shortly after Tom arrived, Neva woke up and rubbed her eyes. Sleepily, she sat up and looked around the unfamiliar room. This must be the house they talked about. Climbing off the bed, she made her way to the stairs, looking around her curiously as she went. She descended the stairs and smiled at the others. "Hello." She said quietly. --- Sebastian blushed when he felt Carter's thumb move over his hand. He found it amazing that Carter could still make him blush the way he did when they first started dating. They arrived at the club and Sebastian chuckled at both Carter's and Hades' remarks. "Well, there we are then. False alarm." Sebastian said cheerfully and looked at Carter. "How about we head to your house to get my card and we start that date, then?"

Shadowess - March 11, 2021 Desi grinned at the thought of them simply letting him in with this disguise. "Yes, I believe I could have quite a bit of fun causing chaos between them." He said while inspecting the nails on one of his hands. "While I have them at each other's throats, it shouldn't be too difficult for you to slip by them and do whatever you want." He lowered his hand and looked back at Bryce. "Do you think they'd still be staying at Carter's house?" He asked. From what he'd seen of Bryce's memories, it had been the last place he'd seen any of them before the penthouse. --- "You alright?" Parker stepped fully into the kitchen. When he said he wouldn't mind some help, Parker nodded and walked past him to the washroom. He returned a moment later with a dustpan and brush to sweep up the smaller shards of glass on the floor. Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 "Not after what I've done. No. Although I'm not sure how we will be able to find their hidden location." ,said Bryce. ----- "Y-Yeah. Just a little cut." His mind was still haunted by the memories of his torture, of his family's deaths, and knowing the truth about his own human race. That asylum crap. He could never forget those things. They will always haunt him. The room seemed to be spinning. He leaned against the wall. He breathed heavily. "I-I'm sorry. It's just....Memories. Guess I've got some bad memories that I still haven't gotten over yet." shadowess - March 11, 2021 (Sorry to keep you waiting. I decided to try to learn a new skill and spent most of today practicing drawing on my laptop. I'll post up the pic I finished in a mo. I based the drawing off of Bryce lol I wanted to finish it before replying. Feel free to have it if you like it.) Desi's eyebrows furrowed as he thought about how they could track them down. He then snaps his fingers. "I have an idea, but you will need to lay low until I return. I'll pay that club a visit and see what I can find. You're better off staying away in case the barwoman recognizes you. We don't want to lose the element of surprise. I can meet up with you elsewhere when I'm done. Any ideas where you can hide out for now?" He asked, shifting back into his blond, male form. Not that it mattered much to Desi, he could just imagine Bryce and appear in front of him no matter where he went. The question was to prompt Bryce to think about safe locations that he could lay low in for now. --- Parker had started sweeping up the glass. He caught a glimpse of his reflection in a large shard and his heart skipped a beat when he thought he saw red eyes looking up at him. As soon as he blinked, they were back to his usual green. He looked up with concern when he saw Carter lean against the wall. He took a deep breath and sighed, propping the brush up against the wall before going over to rest a hand on Carter's shoulder. "Guess that makes two of us..." He said quietly, unable to shift the image of the red eyes from his thoughts. "Why don't you go sit down for a bit? I don't mind finishing up here." He suggested as he moved back to the broom and picked it up again. Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 (wow! thats so cool. ill be sure to take a look at it when it gets posted) Bryce shook his head. "This is the only place that I can think of. I do have a mansion but it's been so long. I don't know if anyone's occupied it yet." ------ Carter slightly nodded. "Sure. I could probably use a break." His cut had already healed. He still had a hard time believing that he could heal this quickly. He just wished it was mentally too. He sat on the chair and sighed. He closed his eyes. Trying to relax. Shadowess - March 11, 2021 ( Thanks. I hope you like it! I might use our other characters as references to practice with as well. I'll post them up whenever I finish one ) Desi rose a brow. "The mansion the devil girl and that demon burned down?" He then shook his shoulders and turned away. "I'm sure you'll find somewhere. In the meantime, there is no time to waste. I am eager for a bit of action. Wherever you end up, I will come and find you as soon as I've figured out their location. Good luck, beautiful one." He then vanished. --- Parker continued cleaning the kitchen. He got rid of all the broken glass, slipping out of the backdoor to throw it into the trash can. While he was out there, he noticed a crow sitting on the fence. It seemed to be watching him curiously. He stared back at it for a moment then shook his head and went back inside. Maybe it was just looking for food? He then set to work cleaning all the surfaces. It was shortly after Parker re-entered the house that Tom yawned and opened his eyes. The couch was comfy but being in the same position for so long was starting to cramp him up. He sat up and rubbed his eyes then looked over at Carter. "Oh, hey." He yawned. "You alright?" Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 (omg yes please! i would love to see what elliot and carter look like) "Burned?" He grit his teeth. "They'll all die. Except for him." He appeared in Parker's old apartment once Desi left. ---- Carter rubbed his eyes of the sleep they had. "Yeah, I'm fine. I just..." He sighed as he pinched the brim of his nose. "I just wish I could drink some coffee right now." He looked around. "Hey, where's Neva?" shadowess - March 11, 2021 (Hehe! No worries! I'll let you know when I do them and ooooh man! I just had an idea xD Hope you don't mind if I take control of Lucy 😛 ) Desi arrived at the club and walked in. The nearby Vampires seemed to be both repulsed and intrigued by his scent as he walked in. Ahhh, that could be a problem if he wanted to try to fool the other vampires in that particular group...It would be pointless disguising himself as a Vampire, Human or Devil if he happened to smell like a Demon...Oh well, something to figure out later. He wandered over to the bar, wondering how best to enquire as to their whereabouts when something on the bar caught his eye. Business cards with the name Carter written across them. Desi smiled and picked one up, looking over it curiously. It seems this group are not hiding after all... --- "Know what you mean..." Tom chuckled. When he asked where Neva was, Tom sat back on the couch, still a little sleepy. "She's with Elliot and Vincent at your house. I said I'd swing by later to see how they are. She seems to be getting along with those two really well. They actually managed to make her laugh while they were here. It was kinda sweet." He explained. Hearing some noises coming from the kitchen, Tom looked over and saw Parker cleaning. Either Parker hadn't seen him yet or he was trying very hard to not look in Tom's direction. Either way, Tom quickly looked away from him and back to Carter while trying to hide the anger he felt. He knew it wasn't Parker's fault but he couldn't help feeling sour towards him for what happened. --- Neon pink high heels. Neon pink pleather mini skirt and tank top. Neon yellow fishnet tights. Hair up in long pigtails, Lucy climbed the steps towards Parker's apartment after her shift at the strip club. She'd been mad at him since he called out his ex's name in his sleep but having thought on it for a while, she decided she might have over-reacted. Maybe he was just having a hard time getting over the guy? She didn't know his story...plus he did say he had amnesia...she felt a little guilty for storming out on him the way she did. Maybe it's not too late? He'd been so sweet and caring during the short time that they spoke. Then there's his certain gift in the bedroom that she hadn't been able to get out of her head since that night. She paused at the top of the steps. What if he's already moved on? What if it had just been a one night stand? What if he hated her for what she said?? She shook her head. No! He was a good guy and she'll be damned if she let's an opportunity to be with a guy like that pass her by! She marched up to Parker's apartment door and knocked on it. Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 (uh sure. didnt even know who lucy was until you wrote that scene) Blaire walked over to him. "Can I help you sir?" ----- "Really?" Carter smiled at the thought of it. He frowned when he saw the way Tom looked at Parker. "Hey, he's not the bad guy in this situation. Besides, I'm sure you and Nate can probably put this past you guys." He pulled out his phone when it started ringing. He answer. "Hello?" "Hey Carter! I'm out of the hospital and back on duty. Just wanted to let you guys know that. Thanks for the Get Well card by the way. Really appreciate it." "What? I didn't-" He immediately stopped himself and realized that Sebastian must have given it to him. He cleared his throat. "Uh yeah. You're welcome. So, are you safe?" "Yeah of course. Nobody's following me if that's what you're asking. I'm fine. Anyway, I've got to go. I'm still working but I'll talk to you later. Bye." Kite hung up. He whistled as he was sitting in his cruiser on the side of the road. Watching the streets for any suspicious activity. ----- Bryce's eyes lit up. He wondered who it was. Parker seemed to have stopped living here a long time ago. If it was a human, he would drain them as he was hungry at the moment. He slightly opened the door. "Hello?" shadowess - March 11, 2021 (Lol Yeah, I figured some exposition might be needed. It's been a while lol) Desi looked up from the card and recognized the barwoman from Bryce's memories. He smiled pleasantly, pocketing the card. "Pardon. I'm new to town, just taking in the sights. Could I have a glass of red wine?" He asked politely and seated himself at the bar, not wanting to look suspicious by taking a business card and leaving immediately. He then turned to a nearby vampire who seemed to be looking him over. He smirked. "Buy me this drink and I'm yours, beautiful." He winked. The vampire, seemingly excited, promptly took out his wallet, ready to pay for Desi's drink. -------- Tom shifted uncomfortably as Carter spoke to him about Parker and Nate. "I know...I know..." Tom sighed, bringing his hands up to rub his eyes. "I just-...I guess I'm still sore about it...Y'know?" He then watched as Carter answered the phone. "Who was that?" He asked curiously. Parker, having finished cleaning the kitchen, walked into the living room. He paused when he saw Tom who looked up at him briefly before turning back to Carter. Hesitant, he moved to sit on one of the chairs. "T-Tom?" He started. "Parker." Tom replied sourly. Parker licked his lips nervously and glanced at Carter briefly before lowering his eyes to the ground. "I'm sorry...for what happened...I-...I didn't mean for anyone to get hurt-" "It's fine-" "No, it's not." Parker insisted after Tom interrupted him. "It shouldn't have happened. I know I was drunk but I accept responsibility for my part. I want you to know that. Because I am truly, very sorry." Tom looked up at him, his eyes filling with tears. He could see Parker was upset as well, visibly doing his best to hold back his own tears. Tom sighed, his anger melting away. He knew he was telling the truth and there was no point in holding on to this anger. "It's ok, Parker. I forgive you." --------- As soon as the door creaked open, Lucy started talking. "Hey, Parker. I'm sorry abo-" She then paused when she heard the voice. That wasn't Parker's voice. She squinted and stepped closer to the door, trying to see the person through the gap. "Wait...Who are you?" She demanded. Was it Parker's friend? Had he moved on already?! Was it his ex?? Where was Parker? Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 (i see. if i knew what exposition meant, i would have understood that) Blaire placed a glass of red wine in front of him. "It's not that hard to find someone here. These vampires only ever come here to fuck or get drunk or both." ----- "It was Kite. He's doing fine now. He's actually working. Believe it or not." Once Carter saw the entire conversation unfold, he stood from his seat. Not wanting to pry on something personal. "I'm going to see how Sebastian's doing." He headed upstairs. ----- Bryce grabbed her by the arm and pulled her in. He shut the door. He pinned her to the floor and sank his teeth into his neck. Slowly draining her.

shadowess - March 10, 2021 When Elliot burped, Neva giggled. Mid-giggle a little burp also slipped out from her and she paused, her cheeks turning red. "Pardon." She said quietly. Tom laughed and looked over at Elliot. "Careful Elliot, looks like you've got competition!" --- Desi shrugged. "I haven't decided yet. But let's say for arguments sake that I one day knock on your door and ask you to kill someone, run an errand for me or torture someone for information on my behalf. You would be contractually obliged to do so." He then waved a hand, "Oh, and don't worry. I know you've done enough research to know what a Devil's contract is. This is unfortunately not as powerful. This is the Demon's equivalent. Instead of signing away your soul, the only thing it does is ensures we both hold up our end of the bargain. So if I don't bring you back to life, I don't get that favor and if you don't do that favor after I've brought you to life, you will die and end up back in Hell. So...do we have a deal?" Denix Vames - March 10, 2021 "I'd like to see her try." ,said Elliot with wink. "First, ya gotta know your own burps like a tool." "Do not even think about stinking up the house." ,said Vincent. ---- Bryce laughed at his deal. Amused by the type of demon that Desi was. He cut his finger. Letting his own blood drip down. "Indeed we do." He signed his named, Bryce Heathcliffe (idk if i spelled that correctly. its been a while lol) shadowess - March 11, 2021 Neva laughed, then laughed a little harder at Vincent's comment. Tom smiled as he watched them. It was nice to see her becoming comfortable around them. Neva tried to watch TV again, occasionally rubbing her eyes. She wanted to sleep but she never got a chance to watch TV before so she didn't want to stop watching either. ------- Desi grinned seeing him sign the contract. Once he was done, he took the letter opener back and pierced his own finger, signing underneath Bryce's signature; Desi Dimitriadis. Once it was done, he took the contract, rolled it up and placed it back into his blazer. He then picked up the book and placed a hand on Bryce's shoulder. "Then let us begin." He said, still grinning as they vanished from the pleasure room and arrived in a sealed off, stone room. The only thing lighting this room where dozens of candles. In the center, on the ground, was a large seal painted in red. It depicted a deer's skull with large, sharp antlers within a circle. Around the deer were stars and words written in the Demonic language. Desi's own insignia. Desi let go of Bryce and took the book over to the alter, opening it up to the correct page. As he did he called over to Bryce "Stand in the center." Then he vanished. A few minutes later, he re-appeared with two intoxicated looking women. Both of whom were very much still alive. He pushed one of these women into Bryce's arms with a sharp dagger. "When I tell you to, slice her throat and pour her blood onto the ground." "Slice my wha-?" The woman slurred, looking between them both in confusion. "Shhh" Desi placed a finger on her lips. "You don't want to ruin our fun do you?" He asked, emitting an aura that kept these women compliant. The woman shook her head, blushing and giggling as if she was convinced something else was about to happen. He grinned at her evilly then stepped away from them and back to the other one. "For this to work, we need a blood sacrifice to act as a conduit and another life to trade places for yours. This one-" He laid a hand on the other woman's shoulder. "Will be dying so that you can live once more." Desi explained. "Once the blood sacrifice has been completed, I will kill this one and you will feel new life enter your body. Once it is done, I will take you back to Earth." Without further waiting, Desi turned to the book, double checking the details before turning back to the circle, staying outside of it and began chanting a few Demonic words over and over. After a short while, he looked up at Bryce and nodded, not breaking his chant. Signaling him to kill the woman. Once her blood was poured onto the ground, his insignia would glow red. Still chanting, he'd then walk over to the other woman, standing just within the insignia and in one swift movement he would tear out her heart with his hand. Crushing it as her body fell then dropping the heart into the insignia as well. This would send new energy into Bryce, bringing him to life. It is at this point that Desi would stop chanting and just stand back to watch. Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 Elliot looked at her. "Hey Neva. You seem really tired. How about I drive ya to Carter's house? I can stay there with ya so you're safe and sound." ----- Bryce grinned. "I cannot wait." He brought the knife to her neck and instantly slit her throat once he got the signal. He let her body and the knife go as he felt a swarm of energy enter his body. He caught his breath. He could hear his own heart beat. He touched his chest. Patting it all over. "Oh my. I really am alive." He licked his fangs. He snickered. "I'm sure Carter will be thrilled to see me." shadowess - March 11, 2021 Neva looked over at Elliot when he suggested they go to Carter's house. She thought for a moment with a frown. She didn't want to stop watching TV...but maybe there was a TV at Carter's house too? She nods sleepily with a smile. Tom looks over from the TV and smiles at them. "Guess I'll see you guys later then. I'll come over to visit when the sun goes down." --- Seeing Bryce's reaction made Desi grin. "Perhaps you would like an extra advantage?" Desi walked into the insignia and stood in front of him with his hands out by his side. "As a gift, this time. Something to show my appreciation for giving this bored Demon some new ideas for fun." He lowered his hands. "Nothing too drastic. I can make you telepathic. I couldn't help but notice from your memories a certain Demon that I know who is also a cunning telepath. If she is still hanging around your 'friends' on Earth, then you will need a means to guard your thoughts and emotions. To hide your intentions as well as your presence. Wouldn't want you dying too soon after this little ritual, now would we? The choice is yours." Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 "Can't wait to see ya." Elliot raised a brow. "Anybody know his address?" He accepted the written note from Tom that Carter had given him. "Thanks." He stuffed it in his pocket before taking the car keys. "C'mon. Let's get you there before you fall asleep on yourself." He held her hand. Guiding her to the door. "Wait a minute." Vincent walked over. "What?" "I really don't like the idea of leaving you two alone. I'm coming too." "Why? You don't think I can fight?" "Elliot, this guy isn't exactly human. You need someone with special powers." Elliot rolled his eyes. "Fine but you're sitting in the backseat. Neva gets to ride shotgun." Vincent smiled. "That's fine by me." They soon got into the car and drove off. ----- Bryce held his hands. "What a lovely gift. This will definitely come in handy." shadowess - March 11, 2021 Neva took Elliot's hand and walked with him to the car. Feeling safe with both of these men, she no longer felt the need to constantly look over her shoulder. Once they were driving, she rested her head against the window, looking out at the passing world. Wondering how her life will turn out now that she wasn't living on the streets and being forced to steal for a bad man. Her eye lids grew heavier and heavier as they drove and she couldn't help falling asleep before they even reached the house. --- Once they were gone, Tom had turned the TV off and had settled on the couch, ready to sleep. He had just started dozing off when he heard movement in the garden. He looked towards the curtains and cursed the fact that he couldn't check because of the sunlight. He listened carefully for several minutes but heard nothing else. Maybe it was just some wildlife getting into the garden or something? Whatever it was, it must've gone because he couldn't hear it anymore. He settled back down and went to sleep. --- Desi caressed the back of Bryce's hands with his thumbs and smiled at him as he stepped closer. "Close your eyes." He whispered and let go of his hands. He brought his hands up to either side of Bryce's head, placing his index and middle fingers onto his temples. "This will only hurt for a moment." He then focused, pushing some of his power into Bryce. When he'd finish, he'd lower his hands and place them onto Bryce's shoulders to steady him on his feet. "You can open your eyes now, beautiful one." He said then thought to him. 'Can you hear me?' Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 Elliot parked the car. He smiled. "Look at that. She's asleep." They got out of the car. "She does look adorable." ,said Vincent. Elliot carried her into the house where he placed her on one of the kids beds upstairs. "I'm going to stay with her." "I'll guard the house then." ,said Vincent. Elliot kissed him. "Stay safe, ok?" Vincent nodded. "I promise." He left the room. Elliot laid on the other bed. Sleeping there. ------ Carter yawned as he headed downstairs. He needed to get out of bed. Do something. Maybe watch TV? He noticed that Tom was sleeping. He quietly headed into the kitchen where he saw the mess. Cleaning then, he thought. Some long ass hours of cleaning. ----- Bryce cried out as the power went into him. He nearly fell when Desi kept him from being wobbly. He opened his eyes. He smirked. 'Yes, I can. And don't try to seduce me. My eyes are only set on Travis Carter.' shadowess - March 11, 2021 Chuckling at Bryce's thoughts, he let go of his shoulders and took a step back. "Shame...he's a lucky man." He commented then shrugged. "But I suppose there are plenty more bodies on Earth for me to conquer. Now then, before we head there I need you to do one more thing. Practice shutting off your thoughts and emotions from others. This is vital to your survival. Imagine an barrier in your mind that protects your innermost desires. I will try to read your mind as you do this." Once Desi was satisfied he'd gotten the hang of this skill, he would then step forward again and place a hand on his shoulder. "Wonderful. Then we are ready." He'd teleport them to Earth. Having never set foot on Earth himself, Desi used Bryce's memories that he'd seen earlier to guide him. They ended up standing in front of the penthouse he'd been staying in with Parker. Desi looked around curiously then back at Bryce. "So this is Earth...I feel I may enjoy it here." He grins evilly. "In regards to your plans..." He then shifted, his body taking the shape of Amelia. His voice mimicking Amelia's perfectly, including her accent. "Perhaps I might be of assistance?" --- It was a few hours after Carter had gotten up when Parker woke up as well. He spent several minutes gathering up the courage to leave the room. Nervously, he headed down the stairs and saw Tom was asleep. He was a little relieved but knew it was only a matter of time before he woke up and he'd have to face him. He heard a bit of clattering coming from the kitchen and poked his head in to see Carter cleaning. "Hey." He greeted him, scratching the back of his head. "Do you need some help with that?" Denix Vames - March 11, 2021 Bryce imagined this barrier that he mentioned. As if there was someone knocking on the door, it seemed like Desi was trying to get in but couldn't. He opened his eyes when he heard some praise. "I'll be sure to keep this skill in mind." He smiled. "I believe that it will not be difficult to get the door open once they see you." ----- Carter jumped. "Ah!" Nicking his thumb on one of the shards. He licked his finger. Getting rid of the blood. He awkwardly cleared his throat. " "Uh yeah." "I wouldn't mind some helping hands.

Shadowess - March 10, 2021 (Do you have any plans for Bryce? Was thinking he might have a run in with an Incubus/succubus in Hell? Maybe he'd stumble into his harem or something? As well as having fun maybe they could team up to get him resurrected or transformed?) "Thank you" Neva took the shake with a smile and eagerly tried it. Her eyes lit up at the taste and she looked at the pink liquid inside. "I like this!" She said with a grin. By the way she spoke it may become apparent that Neva had been denied most of these little luxuries all her life. She'd drank water and if she was lucky her boss would occasionally give her one of his cans of beer. That was about it. In the car, she quietly drank the milkshake as they made their way back to the house. The whole time she was looking out of the window and thinking that maybe being hit in the head with an icepack might have been the luckiest thing to ever happen to her. Denix Vames - March 10, 2021 (sure. that sounds interesting. so itll be an incubus. and do you want me to start the scene?) Elliot smiled as he was driving. Their stuff was at the backseat of the car. "Well, I'm glad you like it. Shakes are pretty good on any occasion. Even when it gets cold." He thought for a moment. "So, are you like a werewolf or something? Unless you don't want to answer cause you don't have to. Don't want you feeling uncomfortable or anything like that." shadowess - March 10, 2021 (Sure. I was thinking of using this bio; https://roleplay.plus/blogs/16/36/desi-dimitriadis So maybe if they ever visit Earth they can cause some trouble among the group by shapeshifting to pretend to be one of them around the others lol) "I don't mind..." Neva said quietly. She thought for a moment. "I'm not a werewolf...I don't know what I am...all I know is I can make things cold and I can mess with electricity...oh, and I can turn into a cat...or- well...kitten..." She took another sip of her drink, looking out of the window thoughtfully. "He makes me use my powers to steal things... if I don't or if I talk back..." She trailed off, rubbing her arms. "He helped me get out my foster home...they weren't nice to me...they were scared of me so they hurt me...then he found me and said he could teach me how to use my powers..." She explained. She had a faraway look in her eyes as she spoke. Denix Vames - March 10, 2021 Bryce was still wandering. Trying to find a place where he could collect his thoughts. Maybe he would run into someone who could help him get back to earth? ----- "Well, I can tell you that no one in our family is going to hurt you cause you're part of it now." They soon reached the house where he parked the car. Shadowess - March 10, 2021 (Oh, and does Bryce still have those handcuffs or did Charles remember to go get them off him? lol) Desi's harem was a huge stone building with dozens of sculptures, intricate cravings in the columns. Some rooms were bathing rooms with heated pools. Some were beautiful gardens. Some were just filled with lounges and pillows. Any soul stumbling into this place would wonder if they'd gone to Heaven...until they met it's owner. Desi was lounging naked, in one of the rooms filled with pillows. He'd taken the form of a toned and muscular man with long, blonde curls. He smoked weed and drank from a wine bottle while his violet eyes moved over the dozens of souls around him pleasing each other. A somewhat bored expression on his face. The sight of naked bodies and the sounds of moans were something he was used to by now. When his doors opened and a new face entered his pleasure chambers, he looked over curiously. A new soul had found their way to his home. He smirked, his eyes lighting up. A new plaything. He stood, opening his arms wide and smiling. "Welcome!" He strode over to the stranger, looking him over. "Welcome to my home. Don't mind the others." He paused a little ways off, looking over the soul more carefully. "A vampire!" He grinned then clicked his fingers. One of the souls nearby got up and stood by his side, as if in a trance. He picked up a knife from a nearby table and made a small cut in the souls collar, letting the blood drip down. The soul made no reaction to this. "I imagine you're thirsty. You look as though you've been wandering for ages." He said as he gestured to the soul he'd just cut. "Help yourself. I'm sure they won't mind." ---- Neva looked over at Elliot as they pulled up and blinked at him. "You mean that?" she asked quietly, her eyes hopeful. Denix Vames - March 10, 2021 (Charles destroyed the handcuffs a long time ago) Bryce smirked. "I do love the way you run this place. I imagine you're an incubus. I've done a lot of research before I died. And I want you to help me get back to earth. I need to claim someone. The last lover I had was useless." He sniffed at the soul. "This will not drug me, will it?" ----- "Course I do. Why wouldn't I?" They got out of the car. He kept holding her hand until he reached the door and opened it. "Oh! Hey Vincent. Me and Neva are gonna eat some lunch. I bought her some clothes." Vincent examined her. He chuckled. "And you got them at Hot Topic?" "Hot what now?" He shook his head. "Never mind. It looks good on her. It's like she's a rockstar." "Hell yeah!" Elliot closed the door. He looked at her. "Hey, have you ever heard of AC/DC?" He set the bag down on the table. Shadowess - March 10, 2021 Desi chuckled at the way the soul carried himself and the question as well. This one could be fun to have around. "Well, well. There's no getting anything by you, is there? Yes, I'm an Incubus. Or Succubus if the occasion takes my fancy." He looked over the soul next to him and smirked at Bryce. "No. He's just used to this kind of thing by now. He doesn't show it, but I can assure you, he enjoys it." He pushed the soul forward so he was standing in front of Bryce. "It's better than the alternative." He remarked as he walked around Bryce, looking at him as if inspecting him. "Interesting." He considered Bryce's wish to return to Earth. He, himself, hadn't been to Earth. He wondered if he could find some new fun there. "I might be inclined to help you." He came to a stop in front of him again and turned to face him. "But what will you give me in return?" --- She grinned as she went back into the house with him. Seeing Vincent, she hid a little behind Elliot shyly. Tom looked over and gave her a reassuring smile. She smiled back and relaxed a little, reminding herself that these people were nice. When Vincent said she looked like a rock star, she grinned then looked at Elliot blankly when he asked if she knew what AC/DC was. She shook her head a little. Tom chuckled, guessing this might mean he'll be putting some music on to show her. "Oh, here we go..." Denix Vames - March 10, 2021 Bryce smiled. "You can roam freely on earth as much as you like. No one can stop you." He opened his mouth. Letting his fangs out. He sunk his teeth into his neck. Immediately drinking him. ---- "Aw c'mon! AC/DC's the best rock band ever!" Elliot pulled out his phone and sat on the chair. Vincent muted the TV. He said sarcastically, "I can't wait for this." The song T.N.T started playing. Shadowess - March 10, 2021 The soul let out a sharp gasp when bitten then relaxed, tilting his head back and moaning softly. Desi watched in fascination, finding the act a little exciting. "Afraid it's not as good as living blood, but it'll do until I can resurrect you. Just be careful not to drain him completely. He still belongs to me." He paced a little, watching Bryce thoughtfully. "I can already roam the Earth whenever I please. No, you'll have to offer me something else...I'll need to collect a book from my collection to perform a specific spell to resurrect you. In the meantime, you may enjoy the comforts of my home. Drink, bathe, smoke, make love, do whatever your heart desires. The only rule I have is that you do not destroy my property. That includes the other souls here. You can rethink your offer while I retrieve the book." --- Neva walked over to the chairs and listened to the music Elliot played on his phone. The whole time she stared at his phone curiously with her head tilted a little. Tom was resting his head against his hand, his elbow on the arm of the chair as he watched them with a small smile. Neva smiled as the music went on and glanced between them all before looking back at the phone. "I think I like it." She said quietly. "Come and sit down with us." Tom said kindly as the music came to an end, nodding to one of the seats. "We were just watching some TV." Neva moved over to one of the chairs and sat down, looking curiously at the TV screen. "What's that?" She asked, talking about the show that was on while looking over at Vincent. Shadowess - March 10, 2021 (Don't worry too much about coming up with an offer for Desi. He likes making souls squirm lol if Bryce can't think of anything, Desi will.) Denix Vames - March 10, 2021 Bryce stopped drinking one he felt full. He smiled at the soul. "I think I like this already." He glared at Desi. "A better deal huh? Guess I've got nothing." ----- Elliot smiled. "Glad ya like it." He took out his burger and gave her one too. He took out the fries. Placing them on the table. He started eating. "It's called Seinfield. It's about a group of friends who deal with adult life. It sounds boring but it's supposed to be funny." ,said Vincent. Denix Vames - March 10, 2021 (oh ok) shadowess - March 10, 2021 The soul smiled back and moved backwards to lay himself down on one of the large cushions to rest. Desi couldn't help but smirk at Bryce's arrogance. It made a refreshing change from his obedient pets and the usual cowardly souls he found. "Oh, I think you and I are going to get along just fine." He commented before vanishing, leaving Bryce to relax in any way he saw fit. --- "Thank you." Neva took the burger gratefully and had to resist the habit of eating it rapidly. "Oh, ok." She replied to Vincent as she settled back in her chair to watch with them. Not used to eating so much in a day, she was already full by the time she finished her burger. --- A short while later, Desi returned, wearing a suit and holding a large and very old looking book. "Here we are." He said, approaching Bryce. "First things first." He reached into his blazer and pulled out an old looking piece of parchment. The writing on it was written entirely in the old Demonic language. "This is a contract. All it details is that I'll resurrect you in return for a single favor of my choosing whenever I want." He lay the parchment onto a nearby table and pulled out a letter opener from the table's little drawer. He held it out for Bryce. "If you want a second chance at life, you will sign this contract with your blood." Denix Vames - March 10, 2021 Bryce had sex with the soul without thinking. He just wanted to have some fun. ----- Elliot soon finished his burger and soda along with some of the fries. He burped out loud then awkwardly chuckled. "Sorry about that." Vincent shook his head but smiled. "That's alright. It wouldn't be the first time you did that." ----- Fully clothed, Bryce walked over to Desi. He looked at the contract and the letter opener before meeting his eyes. "And what favor would that be?"

Denix Vames - July 12, 2024 "Your son is an adult." ,said James. "I can't imagine him finding amusement in that." --- "I'll head there right away. Just stay put. I've got the car. We can drive somewhere safe." ,said Kite. He ran past Carter and Sebastian. Carter awkwardly shifted his eyes to Alex and River. "So, any news?" --- "Then we're taking a road trip! Let's give some big spiel about good will or whatever then get drunk afterwards!" ,said Eris. --- "I'm not sure about David. I was too busy dealing with the destruction of Hell. However, I did find out that a portal caused the quake. Apparently, a boy came out of there. He was with another one like him but it would seem that there was an accident. Someone killed one of the boys and now the one that still lives is seeking revenge. I assume he's taking time to plan and get use to this place." ,said Charles. Elliot shrugged. "Sorry Amelia. Me, Vincent, and Neva have been here taking care of Oliver. Carter and Sebastian did show up so we know they're alright. But they had to leave. Other than them, I don't know about anybody else." --- Adam thought for a moment. "There is an abandoned harem. I use to stay there in order to keep safe away from everyone else. We could take that place." --- "He wants Jean to trust him. I just hope that he stays alert." ,said Theron. --- Jean's eyes widened. Surprised for a moment that he didn't understand. He turned back to face him, "Killing doesn't solve anything. Torturing and all that violence? It doesn't do anyone any good. All it does is continue a neverending cycle of pain and torment. In order to find peace, we need to use our words. To tell our stories and understand each other through that. We've all suffered in some way. Why should others suffer too? Don't we want suffering to end? That's why I was able to end the conflict between the vampires and the Steinhells. Because they know what it's like to feel that pain. To grieve those losses. We're not so different from humans. And neither are humans different from us." He suddenly smiled as his heart warmed. Giving a happy aura. "We're a family." --- The hitman smirked. He bent down near the unconscious officer. Pointing a gun at his head. "Dumb sorry copper. What do ya think? Should I put him out of his misery?"

shadowess - July 11, 2024 At the zoo, now high as a kite as the brownie had kicked in, Damien was entranced by the vivid orange colour when they saw the tigers. When looking at the giant tortoises, Damien burst into fits of hysterical giggling as a pair in the enclosure started to 'get it on' very slowly and very loudly in front of them. He giggled so hard that he was almost wheezing and had to lean on James for support. Every time he'd start to calm down, one of the tortoises made another loud groan and it set Damien off again. After a while, they visited the gift shop and Damien spotted a basket of stuffed animal toys. "I wonder if I should get one for Parker for when he wakes up?" he asked with a smile then picked one up and ran his hand over the fluff, captivated by how soft it felt. --- Over at the hospital Parker's surgery was still ongoing. Sebastian and Carter would find Kite, Alex and River in the waiting room. Alex was sitting on one of the chairs, staring at the clock while bouncing his knee anxiously. River paced the room with a faraway look in his eyes. Just as Sebastian and Carter would walk in, Cindy would call Kite to see if he was ok and to tell him that she'd managed to get herself and the babies somewhere safe in time, thanks to their children crying to alert her of the danger before the quake happened. She also broke the news that their apartment building had partially collapsed during the quake. --- "Honestly, I was just wondering the same thing," Carol admitted. "But if I were a fugitive in Hell who had just escaped a magically indestructible, not-so-indestructible anymore prison, I'd probably want to lay low someplace empty where there are lots of hiding places... My bet is they've headed towards Dead City. Lots of abandoned, creepy buildings and empty streets." --- Amelia sniffled then looked around, suddenly alert. Their friends! "The earthquake hit Hell. Did it hit here too? Is everyone ok? Has anyone heard from my dad?" She looked at Charles. "Do we know what caused it?" --- "Like I said before, if we are to re-awaken Eden, we need to bring your new spouses to Hell while they're still alive. Once they start to bear your children, the world itself should revert back to its former glory...The main problem we'll face is finding somewhere in Hell that is both hidden and safe." John told Adam. "Once we know where that is, I can set up spells to make it invisible to all but those who inhabit it. As well as prevent your spouses from wandering into dangerous territory. You spent centuries roaming Hell's landscape, did you ever find a place that was safe?" --- "Wise." Bianka nodded in agreement with Theron. "But if he's not here to be a friend then why has he helped so many of us already?" Larissa asked naively. --- Shezmu released his grip on Triston's arm and the banished vampire stumbled away from him gingerly without taking his eyes off of Jean. "Th-thank you! Thank you!" He said with a look that was crossed between shame and relief. Then he bolted from the hall as fast as his legs could carry him. He knew he'd have to run straight into the shade of the forest as soon as he got out of the castle to avoid the sun but at least he was being allowed to leave with his life. Shezmu watched him run with a blank expression then turned his head to give Jean a puzzled look. He tilted his head slightly, prying into Jean's memories for Tristan's crime. Then his eyebrows furrowed. "Why would you allow such a wretch to live? Why doth he deserve thy mercy?" he asked, genuinely curious to know Jean's reasoning. --- The officer opened his mouth to retort but was interrupted by shouting coming from the main next room. "Hello? H-Hello?! Are there any officers here? I need help!" The officer hesitated. He glared at the hitman for a moment but knew he was currently the only officer available to help whoever it was as the others were all out trying to get the riots under control. "Fuck." he mumbled as he stood up abruptly. At least the hitman was locked behind bars. He doubted he'd be able to get out. He hurried out of the room. From where the hitman lay, he'd hear the officer begin to greet someone then hear a bang, a grunt and a thud in quick succession. A moment later, the taxi driver who had been up to no good around the city, including narrowly escaping Lilly and her friends after they discovered a body in his trunk, half-jogged into the room with a set of keys in his hand. "You're lucky there's a riot going on right now." He told the hitman quickly. "The city's police force are all busy dealing with that." He unlocked his cell and then stepped back to let him out. The officer that had been watching him had been knocked out. His badge and ID would name him 'Henderson'.

Denix Vames - July 10, 2024 James smirked, "Well alright." He stood from his seat. "Lead the way." --- Carter took a deep breath, "Ok." Once both of them were in the car, he drove straight to the hospital. --- "Hell yeah!" Eris ran for joy momentarily. Stopping already so she could save energy in case there would be a fight. "So, how easy will it be to find somebody? Hell is pretty expansive." --- Elliot couldn't help but have tears roll down his cheeks. He smiled at the whole scene in front of him, "I'm glad ya'll are ok." Charles rubbed his head against Amelia's. He smiled at Elliot, "Never would I have thought that we could have formed this friendship. I'm glad I can trust everyone here." --- "Where can we have a harem?" ,asked Adam. "Not sure if there's any available spaces around the world." --- Theron nodded, "That was his blood. Shezmu. He's an ancient Blood God but don't think he's here to be a friend. For now, him and Jean have a truce." He looked at the sword in his hands. "And he gave me this. Still, I will keep my eyes peeled." --- Jean glared at Tristan with hot tears in his eyes. He clenched his fists. "Just go. Leave this place and never come back. I never want to see your disgusting face." --- The hitman let out an annoyed sigh, "Already told ya mate. It was an assignment. Once I did my part, I'd get the dough." He laid on the so called bed in the cell, "But there's no point in talking to ya anymore. Looks like you've been on that high horse for a while."

shadowess - July 10, 2024 "They're only little ones," Damien said with a goofy smile. He finished his joint and tucked the packets he had left into his pockets. "Come on, I wana see the giraffes eating from the tall poll. Ha! Tall poll... sounds like something from a tongue twister." he jumped to his feet excitedly. "Come on!" --- "Carter, there was nothing anyone could've done," Sebastian said, gently holding Carter's face in his hands. "None of us saw it coming but when it happened you did everything you could to make sure Parker and I got out safely. As far as I'm concerned, that makes you a hero." he kissed him. "Come on. Our friend needs us." --- Carol grinned widely as she looked out at the expanse of Hell. "Me too, bestie. Now let's go spread the 'good news'" she chuckled at her own pun before walking with Eris to begin their mission. --- "Oliver!" Amelia gasped softly as she reached up to take him in her arms. The maternal need to hold him close to her was strong and feeling his little sleeping head against her chest simply felt right. Tearfully, she looked up at Vincent and gave him a small smile. "Thank you." She kissed the top of Oliver's head then turned to kiss Charles tenderly before burying her face in the crook of his neck. "For a while, I thought... but God, I'm just so glad to see you all again!" she wept. --- Satisfied that he'd found a suitable gift for Nate, Tom placed his phone into his pocket and glanced at the clock on the hotel foyer wall. He'd be back soon from his new business venture. The excitement that Tom felt in anticipation of Nate's return was as strong as it had been when they'd first started dating. They'd come a long way since then. To think, if not for the interference of Carter and his friends, he would never have become what he is now, nor met Nate to begin with. In fact, he was willing to bet he'd still be a Watcher for that awful organisation. How glad he was that he was taken away from such a downward, doomed path. That his life now had new meaning and his heart had never felt so full. Smiling to himself, he walked over to the front desk and requested that a bottle of champagne be taken to their room for when Nate would arrive. Then he headed to their room to freshen himself up and dab a little perfume onto his neck. --- John couldn't help smiling. His cheeks turned pink. Then, just as quickly, he wiped the look from his face and turned away from Adam to get up. He tucked his wings away as he did so and began getting himself dressed. "We should get to work. I was thinking, the chaos from those quakes may have afforded us an opportunity. We can pluck the wives that you choose from Earth and people will assume their absence to be related to the quakes." he told him while pulling a new shirt over his head. "Once we've relocated them to your harem we can then get to work on guaranteeing their obedience to you. To help them realise that being chosen by you is a blessing that they should be thankful for." --- Bianka had been pacing the room, anxiously. She was relieved when Theron appeared again. "How so?" she asked, curiously. "Bie-bie!" Larissa entered the room excitedly. She slowed down when she saw the look on Theron's face and the sword in his hand. "Woah! Did you make that?" she asked then looked at them both with the same excitement she had come in with. "I just saw Hannes giving some blood from a cup to the injured ones. You wouldn't believe how fast their burns healed! It's like they've never been harmed at all!" --- A cross between frustration and disgust flittered across Shezmu's features as he was told that the castle no longer had concubines and that the vampires here drank deer blood. At this as well, Tristan had visibly tensed as he recalled the look of rage he'd received from Shezmu earlier when he'd told him the same thing. But the ancient one didn't argue. There was a lot about this castle that had changed and Shezmu had sensed this from the moment he'd set foot in it. For one, there were a few more species present here than just vampires. Not including the two other Blood Gods that he'd sensed earlier. He had sensed Jean and Theron. Curiously enough, he'd sensed a Fae and even more shockingly, a werewolf. He had also sensed a Demon somewhere in the castle. All of these he was very curious about but was sure he would have the opportunity to meet them soon enough. Shezmu grunted uncomfortably when Jean hugged him but he didn't move. He tensed, standing stock still until Jean would release him. "Be careful thy kindness does not get mistaken for weakness, young one," he told Jean flatly. "Very well." he then sighed. "I wilt respect thy customs whilst I am welcome here. Alas, my needs persist. My clothes are tattered and aged. I had chambers here once, in the Lower East Wing. Has this room been occupied in my absence?" Catching sight of movement in his peripheral, Shezmu moved so quickly that neither Jean nor Tristan would be able to register the movement until he'd stopped. He had moved to grasp Tristan's arm, having caught him attempting to slip away. "And what of this one?" he asked calmly. "I plucked him from death's grip to bring him home. But he informed me of his banishment." "I just want to leave!" Tristan said again quickly, holding his hands up and giving Jean and pleading look. He winced, Shezmu's grip was like a vice around his arm. "I-I swear, I won't return. Just please let me leave. Please, please don't give me back to him. He'll kill me." he referred to X. The last he'd seen of him, he'd been one of the few prisoners that had managed to escape the facility but not before witnessing him killing off any prisoner he'd managed to catch. "I know you hate me and I'm sorry for what I did. I'm sorry. Just don't call him. Please. I'll just leave and never come back. I'll do anything. I swear!" his pleading became more desperate as he recalled those events. --- "Stop it." The officer growled angrily. He was trying hard not to lose his cool and just guard the hitman. "And what do you mean you 'nearly finished it?' What exactly were you hoping to achieve?!"

Denix Vames - July 10, 2024 James flustered. Unsure as to how to approach this new Damien. "Well, I hope my reflexes don't get the best of me. I rather not hurt the monkeys. They may be dangerous to humans but I'm a different story to them." --- Now, it was Carter to look sad and frustrated. He turned away. Trying to avoid Sebastian looking at him. "I can't. Not after what I did." He clenched his fists. "I let him down. I couldn't protect him like a friend should. Like....I don't want him to see what's left of this pathetic detective." --- Eris grinned, "I could care less! As long as we're having fun! Besides, we're friends at this point. That's enough for me!" --- Charles glanced at her before teleporting in Vincent's home. Elliot smiled for a moment until he saw Amelia. He frowned and lowered Neva to the floor. With his hands free, he walked over and knelt. "I'm starting to think no one's having a good day." Vincent cradled Oliver in his arms. Gently holding him close as he brought him to her, "I believe someone missed you." --- "Well, why did you think I had sex with you?" ,asked Adam. "You're the first guy who's trying to get me back on the spotlight. Might as well give my number one fan a good time." He winked. --- Theron hesitantly took the sword. Once he listened, he appeared in his room again. He looked at Bianka, "It's ok. There's no more danger. Everything's alright. Just be aware of the new guest in this castle. He's not nice." --- Jean had calmed down. Transforming back into his red ribbons and long flowing hair. He glared when Shezmu mentioned a concubine. "We don't do that around here. We have plenty of animal and human blood. You can always have a jug in your room just in case you get thirsty. I will ask you questions. But for now, if you're going to stay here, then you need to give everyone respect. I know things were different back then but things have changed for the better now. You don't need to step on someone to get what you want. People are willing to help each other so long as there's respect and kindness." He took a deep breath. "For example, a hug." He did his best smile before wrapping his arms around him. --- The hitman chuckled, "Oh I'm sure! You guys are totally besties!" His sarcasm flew through his words. He shrugged, "But look I can't say a thing. Confidential and all that. It's how business goes. I was given an assignment and I nearly finished it. So guess either way, I'm screwed." He gripped the bars as he leaned forward. Licking his lips, "But c'mon. At least tie me up. Makes this bit even more fun." He rolled his eyes, "Oh wait. I forgot. You're the boring stiff. No fun at all. Probably never even did it in the cell with one of the loudmouths you caught."

shadowess - July 9, 2024 Damien's smile slipped. He looked at James with a mixture of sadness and surprise. "That sucks!" He said. He took another drag on his joint. "Well, we should visit the zoo anyway. It'll be fun." he smiled again. "Hey, maybe the monkey thing is open. There's this little thing there where the monkeys are loose and you can sit with them and sometimes they sit on you! Oh but keep an eye on your things, they like to steal." He chuckled, talking rapidly and excitedly. This was the most animated he'd been since meeting James. --- Comforted by his words, Sebastian smiled a little. Although he was still quite upset that the conversation with Vincent had ended the way that it had. But maybe Carter was right. Maybe he just needed some time to cool off and think. Sighing, he hugged Carter before looking around warily. Half expected the riots to come down the street but luckily for them, this neighborhood was pretty quiet. "We should go check on Parker at the hospital. See if he's ok," he suggested. --- Carol was obviously worried about Amelia as soon as Charles said she needed him. She watched him leave, wondering what had happened to make him risk disease to be with her. She then glanced at Eris and chuckled at her comment. "Come on. Two dynamite gals, like us?" she said and opened her arms. "Who could stay mad?" she winked. "We'll charm the pants right off them all! Then we can go about charming the pants off each other." she grinned and then looked down at the Devil in the cell. "I hope that metal holds... and those cuffs. Putting him in there once was hassle enough!" she commented as she turned away from him and draped her arm around Eris's shoulders. "But I think you and me make quite the team," she said as they started to walk away together. "Now, I do have some ground rules if you want us to have any fun. Rule number one; don't fall in love with me. Rule number two; no jealousy. I'm polyamorous, so tend to have more than one partner at any given time." --- Sobbing softly, Amelia pulled herself into Charles's arms as soon as she felt his arm around her. Her stomach churned at the thought of having to explain everything to him and relive it all over again. But then he spoke and she knew he'd already looked into her mind. Despite her sorrow, she felt immense relief that he could understand her so easily, without the need for words. To be so thoroughly seen and known brought her such profound comfort, such joy that she could scarcely put it into words. But she was in such emotional pain from all that had happened that she couldn't even bring herself to smile at his last comment. She was far too wounded and angry. Part of her burned with a desire for vengeance. To hunt the Angel down and hang him by his heels. To hurt him relentlessly until he screamed the name of the one who had ordered him to seduce her. But mostly she just wanted to be with Charles and to be reunited with their son. Particularly after being made to think that she was so horribly ill that she might not survive to see either of them again. Of course, she clearly needed to address her trauma from her first Super Nova at some point as well as confront Damien about what Tuzo had said, but that could wait. Right now, she just needed some time and comfort. "I want to go home." She said quietly, after finally calming down enough to speak again. --- Tuzo appeared in a little French street. The houses here were a mixture of modern and old buildings. He wasn't far from the town's center and he looked around, reminiscent. He walked down the road with his suitcase trailing along behind him, noting how much of the town had changed since he'd last been here. Granted, it had only been a handful of years ago, but a lot can change in that time. Certain shops had either been replaced or moved entirely. Scaffolding on an old pub. A convenience store where a tiny cottage had once stood. With relief, he found that a certain hotel he'd used to frequent was still standing and seemed to also still be in business. It was one of the few places in the world that he'd never visited with Amelia and thanks to the gift he'd received from passing through Oblivion he, like Donnie and Damien, was no longer tracable. Which meant that if he didn't want to be found, it was impossible for anyone to teleport straight to him. They'd have to go through the hassle of actually looking for him. Confident that he would be safe to lay low here, he walked brazenly into the foyer of the hotel. Soft, red carpet. Burgundy wallpaper with a thin gold strip running horizontally across the centre of each wall. The skirting boards and cornices were also painted gold and embossed in a decorative floral pattern. Crystal pear drops hung elegantly from each of the beige lampshades. The front desk was sleek and made from old mahogany. It shone as if it had just been waxed several times over. Red velvet curtains hung by the entrance to a corridor that would lead to the hotel's rooms, giving any prospective guests the feel for the kind of privacy they would have here. While the shades and tones of the interior projected a sense of warmth and comfort. This was one of the most expensive hotels in the area and it would seem that its sense of being 'high class' had not slipped during Tuzo's 'time away'. There Tuzo noticed a handsome, tanned man with short, tight brown curls and equally dark brown eyes. The male hadn't noticed him as he seemed to be busy looking at his phone while leaning against the wall, so Tuzo took a moment to appreciate his beauty with a small smirk before approaching the desk. The male against the wall was Tom. He and Nate had been staying in one of the rooms in this hotel. Of course, if Tuzo knew this he'd have avoided the town entirely. Being a similar type of Angel that Nate had once been, the two had a history... and Amelia hadn't been the only one Tuzo had ever betrayed. Blissfully ignorant, Tuzo accepted his room key with a smile and gave Tom one last sly glance before heading into a corridor adjacent to him in search of his room. Meanwhile, Tom finally looked up from his phone. He had been completely unaware of Tuzo's staring and had been utterly engrossed in trying to find an anniversary gift for Nate. It wasn't for a few weeks yet but he wanted to make the day perfect for the two of them. By now, they had lived in France for so long that he was practically fluent in the language. --- Tilting his head back slightly, Azrael let out soft sighs as Death's kisses moved down his neck. Feeling his teeth, a subtle moan slipped from him while he ran his hand through his hair. He caressed his leg with his own. His other hand slowly started to unbutton his shirt. --- While Death and Azrael's passion was just getting warmed up, on Earth John and Adam were just cooling off. Covered in sweat and still panting, John lay on the left side of his double bed. One leg straight, the other bent. His blanket draped over his hips. He rested his head on one of his hands and stared up at the ceiling with a conflicted expression. His wings cushioned them both. He'd be lying if he said he hadn't enjoyed every moment of what they had done but once it was over, he wondered if it had been an error. He couldn't afford for either of them to get distracted. Not with Eden at steak. "We should get back to the plan." he breathed, looking over at Adam. "We need to build you a haram for the world you will rule." he bit his lip and hesitated. "I-... you're difficult to resist," he admitted. "But we can't afford to be distracted again. At least, not until we have succeeded in our mission. Then perhaps... once you have your new kingdom and the day is won, would you consider having me as one of your chosen? To bed when you tire of the company of women." --- Hannes took the cup gingerly and eyed Shezmu suspiciously. The ancient one took no notice of his glare and walked calmly away from them towards Theron. Hannes looked back at Jean worriedly but didn't argue. "Be careful, meine love," he said quietly before turning to leave the hall. Meanwhile, Shezmu stopped just short of Theron and regarded him with softened eyes. "Be not discouraged, childe of Lillith. Your effort to protect thy home was valiant. Thy courage is admirable. You must have questions. I may yet answer them. Meet me in my chambers later. For now, there are important matters that I must discuss with the current ruler of this castle." He held out his hand and the blood shards that he'd redirected into the ceiling earlier pried themselves free and floated down to them. They hovered around his hand momentarily before spinning around and colliding with each other. Merging and stretching to form a regal-looking black sword. The weapon hardened and its hilt landed in his hand. Though it weighed a little more than a standard broadsword, Shezmu seemed to hold it rather effortlessly. He flicked it around carefully to rest the blade in his open palm, then held the weapon out for Theron to take. "Take pride in thy lineage, Tyrs- Theron. of Tyr." The ancient one had seemed to stop and correct himself when saying Theron's name but once it was said, he didn't give it any further thought. He simply accepted Theron's current name, without question, as soon as he'd heard it in his mind. Without another word, nor further explanation, Shezmu turned and walked back to Jean. Stopping at a short distance so as to keep him comfortable in his presence. His arms were relaxed in front of him, his hands clasped together. "Now that thy concerns have been eased, might I assume that my old chambers have been unaffected by the destruction that your beloved eluded to earlier? I wouldst have need of a place to rest and a mortal concubine to drink from." he glanced down at himself with a blank expression then lifted his head to look back at Jean. "And I suppose some new garments would not go amiss? I would be happy to answer any of thy questions and offer my guidance, as promised. But only once I have been sated and settled." --- "For you to sit quietly and wait for my boss to get back." The officer answered snidely as he walked over to a chair on the far side of the room and sat down. He crossed his arms, glaring at the hitman. "Why did you do it, man?" he asked, visibly upset. "and you're wrong about us! In this precinct, we're practically a family. You fuck with one of us, you fuck with all of us!"

Denix Vames - July 8, 2024 James smoked his share but didn't show any signs of effects. Nor did he feel the effects. "I can play along with what being high is supposed to feel like. Unfortunately, I can't experience it. I was genetically modified to be a soldier." --- Carter sighed as he crossed his arms, "You weren't wrong. Neither was he. You're both just trying to do what's best for her. I get that. When me and Jack had our first kid, it was hard. I was unsure as to how I should teach Nate anything. But eventually, we got a decent idea of things. It's hard to really think of what's the right thing. All we can do is help in our own way. I'm sure if we give Vincent some time alone then he'll be willing to talk to you again." He kissed him, "You're good person Sebastian. Don't forget that." --- Charles cleared his throat. "Do forgive me but it would seem that my wife needs me. As much as this may be difficult for many to trust in you from your very words, please explain to the freed prisoners about the redemption program. I must have at least someone spread the news. I'm sure you two will manage just fine." He disappeared. Eris raised a brow, "If he means those angry demons are going to trust a chick like me and a chick like you then sure. I think we can convince everyone that things are all safe and sound." --- Charles appeared. He immediately went to Amelia's side. Wrapping an arm around her and bringing her close. He glared for a moment as he read her mind. Understanding what had happened. He quickly composed himself. Knowing that Amelia would need him at this very moment. "It's going to be alright. I'm sorry I couldn't see through his lies. He's a clever one. I'll give him that. Still, if he happens to end up on our doorstep again, I will turn him into a roasted marshmallow." --- Death gently placed him on the desk. He trailed his neck down to his collarbone. Kissing there gently but biting only a little. --- Surprised, Jean looked at the cup then him. He hesitantly reached out. Once he held the cup, he turned to Hannes. "Take this to everyone. Make sure they only take a sip. I...I'll be alright Hannes. Don't worry." He smiled to give him some encouragement. --- The hitman grabbed his now broken bloody nose, "Fucking damn it!" He bent over as blood hit the floor. "Figured you coppies could care less! All you lot are only after your own gain. Doesn't sound like we're so different, does it?" He set his nose back in his place. With a smirk and blood staining his lips, he said, "What do you say? If not a good time then what do you want?"

Shadowess - July 7, 2024 "Alright!" Damien beamed and led them to a large Bulldog cafe. There was an entrance to the main bar in the centre of the building and a small staircase leading down to a smaller door that was off to the side. Smoking or purchasing weed wasn't allowed in the main bar. That's what the smaller entrance was for. Damien greeted the doorman politely and showed him his ID before being allowed to enter. Although cannabis was legal here, there were strict laws about its purchase and consumption. They could buy it and smoke it either in the small cellar bar area or sit at one of the tables outside to smoke it as long as they remained on the premises. Alternatively, they could buy it and then take it to a private residence to consume it there. Damien bought four packs of pre-rolled joints and two edible brownies. Once bought, he sat at one of the tables outside and passed half of what he'd bought to James. Knowing his tolerance was already quite high from simply being a Devil, Damien started off by eating his brownie and then lit up a joint to smoke. Before long, his eyes were bloodshot and he'd slouched slightly in his chair. For the first time in a while, he was completely relaxed. "That's better!" he sighed after having stared across the street for a while. "I don't even feel the cravings anymore. This is perfect." he grinned and looked at James. His eyes lit up as he had an idea. "We should visit the zoo while we're high!" --- Speechless, Sebastian stared at the little family for a moment before turning to leave. He didn't understand why this was such a problem. Didn't they realise that by sheltering her like this they were doing more harm than good? Once outside, he stayed quiet for a few minutes. Frowning to himself he replayed the conversation in his mind. Then he turned to Carter. "Was I wrong?" he asked, insecure. "I didn't mean-... I just-..." he flustered, obviously upset at how quickly things had turned. "I just worry..." he said finally. --- Carol chuckled at Eris and helped her to place the Devil carefully within the cell. As she walked out, she looked at the metal bars uncertainly. She wasn't sure how the old magic on the cells had worked but wondered if Charles's power would be enough to reinstate it. Or perhaps that secret, along with many of Hell's original structures and magics, would be lost to the ages. After all, these cells had been standing since before Lucifer's time. "Well, now that that is taken care of, what's next?" she asked once the cell would be locked. --- Warm. Hot. Hotter. Burning. It's all burning. The roaring. The screaming. Smell of Burning hair. Burning clothes. Flesh... All turning yellow, then red, then black. All of it assaulted the senses. Overwhelming. Choking on hot smoke. Throat burning. Can't breathe. It's so damn hot. It hurts. Eyes shut but it's so bright that the room is still visible behind the eyelids. Still able to see the fire. The crumbling walls. The flailing bodies. Faces contorted in agony. Then white. Everything white. And silent. Skin is so sensitive, like a sunburn. All over. Can't see a damn thing. Ears ringing. The smell of smoke and burned things lingered. Like it was stuck inside the nose. A sound breaks the silence. Someone is crying. Soft, broken sobs. Then a rustling, like gravel underfoot. Starting off slow and quiet as if from a distance, then grew rhythmically faster and louder. "Amelia?!" "Damien?! Make it stop!" "Amelia, it's ok. You're dreaming. You're ok!" "I don't want to burn them! I don't want to burn anyone!" "Amelia? It's just a dream! Wake up!" But it wasn't a dream. It was a memory. Every detail felt as real as the moment it had happened. Except for the voice. Amelia opened her eyes to find that the voice hadn't come from Damien. She had simply remembered Damien being there at that moment. But the voice had belonged to Tuzo, who was now holding her close. Running his hand through her hair and looking at her worriedly. For a moment, Amelia was still as she caught her breath and snapped out of her dream-like state. Her eyes darted around the room as the whiteness faded and she could see Tuzo's apartment gradually come back into focus. She felt dazed as tears rolled down her cheeks. "I- I couldn't stop... Th-They burned... I couldn't stop and they suffered because of me..." She whispered through quiet sobs. "Shhh, it's alright. It's over now." his hand ran through her hair again. She was still on his couch but he was now sitting on it with her. Having pulled her onto his lap to hold her. The blanket had become tangled around her legs from how she'd tossed and turned in her sleep. Slowly, she came back to herself and realised what Tuzo was doing. She looked up at him questioningly. Into his eyes. As soon as their eyes met she felt something unseen grip her mind. It took her by surprise but she couldn't tear her eyes away from his. Whatever it was weighed on her heavily. She felt tired. Almost dizzy. "...Tuzo?" "It's all going to be ok." his voice was soothing and she believed his words immediately. At least, she wanted to. Or did she? He shouldn't be holding her like this. She didn't trust him. Yet, his eyes had a hold on her in a way she couldn't describe. Was he doing this? She tried to resist but the sickness that had been ravaging her had left her weakened. Yet she also couldn't shake the horrid feeling that what was happening now felt all too familiar. "Tuzo-!" she gasped, furrowing her brows as she tried to look away from his eyes. He placed a finger on her lips and gave her a sweet smile. "I know," he said softly. "We shouldn't. But you can't deny that there is still something between us." he licked his lips and Amelia's heart raced. But not out of excitement. From dread. She tried again to tear her eyes from his but before she could he'd pushed his lips against hers. It was the small break in his concentration that she'd needed to pull herself free. She pushed him away then brought her hand up to slap him hard across his cheek. "Get off me!" she raged, slapping him again and again. She scrambled off the couch, almost tripping on the blanket and stood over him, despite feeling woozy from his failed attempt to hypnotise her as well as her illness. She continued to smack him. "How dare you?! I knew I couldn't trust you! You scheming, lying, son of a bitch! You've done this before, haven't you?! Did you do this when we were dating?" she stopped and took a step back with a look of realisation. "You DID, didn't you? You didn't love me. You lured me in and then set me up! You're the reason those Angels knew where to find me. You-..." she trailed off, the betrayal she'd felt when he'd first left her felt just as fresh now as it had at the time. "You were using me..." she felt sick. "I should've listened to Damien." "Amelia, I-..." Tuzo looked up at her shamefully from the couch but seeing her glare, he knew there really was no going back now. "I swear to you, I did love you." She scoffed but Tuzo pressed on. "I did! I-... Ok, alright. It started off that I was sent to spy on you. I was only supposed to keep tabs on you and Damien. I was ordered to seduce you so I-... I did what I do best and hypnotised you into thinking that you loved me... but then I started to care about you. But I was stuck. I was scared that if I stopped hypnotising you that you'd stop loving me. I couldn't pledge myself to you because that would involve telling Damien that I tricked his sister into bed and he'd have destroyed me for that... and I couldn't tell-... I couldn't quit my job because that would've been treason and I'd have been destroyed for that too." Amelia folded her arms and glared at him hard as she listened. "Is that why you stood me up and sent me that note?" "Note?" Tuzo looked confused as he looked up at her. Then he hesitated. "I didn't send you any note. Like I said, I was stuck. I didn't know what to do back then. If I had suddenly disappeared and didn't report in, then my boss would've assumed I'd been made and you would've been targeted for retaliation and I didn't want that... But I guess that... is actually what ended up happening anyway." "What do you mean?" Amelia asked, confused. "Are you saying you just up and disappeared and that's why four Arch Angels tortured me for a week?!" "In a sense..." Tuzo replied, still hesitant about whether he should say any more. "How?! How the fuck did you just disappear?!" "Maybe... you should ask your brother that," Tuzo answered reluctantly as he stood and placed his hands in his pockets. Shocked, Amelia blinked at him. "N-no, you're lying. Damien had no idea about us." "It's honestly amazing that he's had you fooled for this long. But back then your brother had more contacts and spies than he ever let on about. As soon as he found out about me... Let's just say, my removal was swift. I can only assume he sent you that note to make you think I'd left you. Shame he didn't foresee the consequences of me not reporting to my boss on time." Amelia's head was swimming. She swallowed hard to try to stop herself from feeling so sick. "Where did he take you?" "Take me?" Tuzo laughed coldly. "He destroyed me. Completely. But I guess I had that coming." "But- you're-" "Not destroyed now, I know. You can thank Damien and Donnie for opening up the rift from Oblivion. The only solace I got from my destruction was that Damien ended up joining me in Oblivion sometime later. But I suspect I'm not the only one to come back either, so you may want to keep an eye out for 'old enemies'. If I'm honest, I don't think that rift is going to close anytime soon." "W-Wait, hang on-..." Amelia pressed a hand to her head and closed her eyes briefly as the room spun for a moment. "I know, it's a lot," Tuzo said gently and he took a step towards her with the intention of comforting her. But her eyes snapped open to glare at him and she moved away from him sharply. He stopped and lifted his hands while giving her an apologetic look. "You said you needed to report in and that's why I was targeted when you didn't..." Amelia started slowly and Tuzo tensed, knowing what she was about to ask. "I can't tell you who," he said quickly. "Bullshit!" "Ameli-" "No! You owe it to me! The bastard or bitch who gave you the order to fuck with my heart and then gave the order for those Angels to kidnap me, I want their name! Now!" Tuzo became quiet. They stared at each other for a long moment and just as Amelia seemed to be getting impatient, he shook his head. "I can't." "You fuck-!" Amelia growled furiously but Tuzo walked away, towards his bedroom. "Come back here! We're not finished!" "Yes, we are," Tuzo answered as he opened a wardrobe and took out a suitcase, apparently having been prepared to leave at a moment's notice the entire time he'd been looking after her. "Look, Amelia, I'm sorry about what happened. I'm sorry I broke your heart and tricked you. I'm sorry that those Angels hurt you. But believe me when I say, some things are better left unsaid." he gave her one last sad look as she'd marched into the room after him. "You're leaving me alone? What about the black vain?! How do I treat it on my own?" Amelia sounded afraid and Tuzo hesitated once more. "You don't have black vain... you never did. I wanted to get close to you and get you alone to see if I could get you to love me again. I hypnotised you into believing you had it. Turns out the placebo effect also works when it's done through hypnotism. So, I was hoping it would also work as a kind of Florence Nightingale effect if I 'nursed you back to health.'" he confessed. "and I think I might've stood a chance if you hadn't already found love while I was gone..." he pointed to the ring on her finger. Then he shrugged. "But, c'est la vie." "You-..." Amelia's eyes widened. She felt a white-hot rage wash over her. Without thinking, she'd grabbed the nearest thing to her, which happened to be a heavy lamp from on top of a chest of drawers, and threw it at Tuzo. But he'd vanished before it could hit him, causing it to smash against the opposite wall. She was alone. Within seconds she felt just as strong as she'd always been. Either the truth of what he'd done had rid her of the placebo effect, or his hypnotism had worn off when he'd left. Either way, that didn't stop her from feeling crushed and betrayed all over again. Breaking down, she fell to her knees and wept. "Charles..." she whimpered, hugging herself. "I need you." --- Black, silky curls tumbled effortlessly as Death's fingers moved through them. The kiss sent excited shivers through Azrael. He lost himself in his arms and in the ecstacy of the moment. Clicking his fingers, the door to his office locked. Clicking them once more, his desk cleared and tidied itself, putting all the plans safely into a drawer that opened and closed itself. He returned Death's kisses, deepening them while slipping his hand between the buttons of his shirt to caress his chest. --- Tristan wiped at the tears falling from his eyes and stared at his wet hand in confusion. Out of everyone in the room, only Shezmu seemed to be unphased as he stood firm with his hands still clasped together, staring intently at Jean. Hannes used much of his willpower to resist the urge to cry but it was a struggle. When Jean told him what Shezmu wanted, he moved his eyes over to the ancient Blood God pleadingly. "Y-you can't! Our people have been through enough already! Walls have collapsed, we have injured to attend to and we have only recently ended our fued with the Steinheils. We need Jean!" Shezmu didn't move but he seemed contemplative. Although it was difficult for him to understand this new, strange way that people spoke and was frustrated by how odd it sounded to him, he had been surprised by Hannes's claims. In his time, when he had ruled alongside other Blood Gods in this castle, the Steinheils had been a constant thorn in his side. If what Hannes had said were true, perhaps the castle would benefit from Jean's continued rule. Though it bothered him that this half-vampire's heart was soft. That in itself could create a weakness to be exploited. Afterall, Shezmu had been in his presence for the whole of five minutes and already he had identified Hannes as Jean's achilles heel. In fact, before Hannes had pleaded with him, he had considered using this knowledge to his advantage. But now, he'd changed his mind. Finally, after a moments pause, he regarded Jean thoughtfully. "I understand." He began calmly. "But tis my home, too. My family. My heritage. Wouldst thou turn me out when I have such knowledge and experience to offer?" he tilted his head slightly. "Much hath changed since my reign." he nodded understandingly. "I once ruled within these walls with my brethren but took to slumber in the earth some centuries ago. I know not these times, nor their customs. In that there lies an oppertunity to us both. That thy shall teach me about this era and I shall offer my council, from one king to another. What say thee?" A thought then occurred to him and he walked causally over to one of the dining tables to pick up a cup that was already half full of deer blood. He lifted his finger to his mouth to prick it on one of his fangs before allowing just a few drops of his own blood to fall into the cup. He took this cup over to Jean, stopping just a few feet from him and lifted the cup for him to take. "For thy injured ones. Allow them just a small sip each. No more. My blood will be potent enough to heal them quickly. Take this as good faith that our deal will be for the benefit of your people." --- The officer watched the hitman for a moment and walked towards the bars as if he was interested. Then he aimed a punch at his face through the bars. "Bastard! You killed one of our officers and shot another. What makes you think I'd be interested?!"

Denix Vames - July 2, 2024 James bit his lip. He thought for a moment before nodding. He followed Damien, "Ok. Let's see what this plant can do." --- Elliot picked her up. Keeping her close, "It's ok. Just some dumb argument." Vincent continued to glare at Sebastian, "You will never understand. Just....get out. I don't want to see your faces right now." Carter's eyes widened, "Vincent..." "Please Carter. Give me some space." Carter sighed, "Alright. We will." --- Charles guided them to Hell's Cells. Once there, he raised his hands as he melted the metal from some of the iron bars. Transforming it into a new cell. "There. That should do. Put him in there." Eris smiled, "Let's throw him!" "Not this time. Gently put him in there." "Ugh! Fine!" --- Death grasped at his lips. Passionately kissing him as he ran his hand through his hair. --- Phineas smiled, "Of course." He kissed him. "I will be back soon." He stepped out of the house and disappeared. --- Raven smiled, "Good. We have a lot of work to do." Both teens disappeared. It would be a while before Raven and Stevie would show up again to wreak havoc. But soon, Stevie will be just as powerful as Raven. And some poor bastards would have to deal with that chaos. --- "NO!" Tears streamed down Jean's cheeks. "I know what he wants! He wants to take over this castle! I won't let him! He doesn't know anything about being kind or loving someone! He's ruthless! He's a horrible person!" Jean stomped over to him, "Get out of my sight! People like you just want power! Not joy! Not love! You don't care about anybody but yourself!" His blue aura suddenly became more powerful. Making everyone cry. --- "Oi! Don't need to get all prissy about it!" The hitman rubbed his crotch, "But hey! You let me go and I can show you a great time." He winked.

shadowess - July 1, 2024 Damien hadn't flinched when James squeezed his shoulder. Now that he had his old strength back, he barely felt anything more than pressure. He nodded at his words. "I really don't know what I want," he admitted. "I definitely don't want a bite." he then chuckled. "I think I'm done with teeth for a while. As much as my cravings want me to believe otherwise. I just need to unwind. Relax, and I mean /really/ relax." he sighed and started to walk again. They left the bridge and entered a new street. "Maybe some weed will help." --- Sebastian had opened his mouth to say something to Vincent when Neva snapped at them tearfully "Stop shouting! You'll wake up Oliver!" Immediately the temperature of the room dipped by a couple of degrees. Not enough to be any danger but just enough to be noticeable. She then turned to Elliot, seeking comfort as she lifted her arms up at him. "Daddy, why is everyone mad?" Sebastian paused, watching her carefully for a moment before bringing his eyes back to Vincent. He took a breath and lifted his own hands to gesture that they should talk more calmly. "Vincent, I apologise. I didn't mean to question your parenting. That was out of line." he started then shook his head a little with a concerned look. "But surely you can see my reasoning? Look at her, she's not a small child anymore. She's growing and this world is dangerous. By all means, do what you must to protect her but sooner or later she will need to be prepared to live for herself...and part of that will be learning how to live in such a dangerous world." he explained in a gentle tone. --- "Well, no time like the present." Carol chirped as she walked over to the Devil's legs and lifted them. "A little help, Eris?" she called over. Once the pair had lifted the Devil between them, she'd look at Charles. "We'll need to follow you, then." --- Being dipped in such a way sent Azrael's heart fluttering. He felt impossibly weightless in his arms. He smiled as he felt Death's lips against his. His body shivered in ecstasy as he felt his hand on his leg. His words were silk to his ears and he caught himself sighing dreamily. "And you shall, my King, my love. I am yours." he purred as he tilted his head forward to capture his lips again. --- Happy to see Phineas with a renewed sense of purpose, Kasper smiled warmly and kissed his cheek lovingly. "Just don't push yourself too hard. This is paradise after all." he chuckled. "And I'll always be here, ready to welcome you home from your visits." --- Gasping, Stevie's eyes shot up to the source of the new voice. He was taken aback by the green eyes but the boy before him spoke as if he knew him. As if he could see him for who he really was. When the boy mentioned the flute, Stevie's eyes widened tearfully and he nodded. "Yes..." he confirmed, surprised that this boy seemed to know about the instrument. Then came the promises and the pivotal moment that could change Stevie's life completely. It would seem to Stevie that this boy, this Raven, was the very answer to his prayers. He stared at the hand offered to him for a moment before steeling himself and reaching up to grab it. "I'm Stevie." he nodded. "and yeah, I will." --- Hurt his people? Shezmu had not inflicted any pain, yet. If the Leviathon was who he'd been referring to, then all Shezmu had done was take control of his blood to manipulate his muscles into a kneeling position. This, although admittedly jarring for the target, would not be painful. The Blood God rolled his eyes in an exaggerated way as Jean flew up and prepared an attack. "Must thou?" he asked irritably. He even sounded slightly sarcastic. Then he vanished before the energy could hit him, leaving a small burned crator in the middle of the hall's wooden floor. Triston had just managed to roll away in time and he looked back at the crater fearfully. What had happened to Jean in the time he'd been exiled?! Hannes had only blinked and saw the creature had vanished, then with a sickening realisation he glanced upwards towards Jean in time to see Shezmu reappear, hovering right in front of his beloved. Fangs bared. "Jean!" By the time Shezmu had grabbed Jean's shoulders and pushed him into the wall, Hannes had sprouted his wings and flew up to attempt to pull the Blood God off of Jean. But it was impossible. Even with Hannes's Angelic strength he couldn't move the creature. Shezmu's fangs had barely grazed Jean's throat when he felt Hannes's relentless tugging on his ancient and tattered clothes. Some of which seemed to disintegrate at Hannes's touch due to age. He chuckled and retracted his fangs. He turned his head slightly to regard Hannes curiously. "As I predicted." he let go of Jean and then hovered away from them, declining into a gentle landing on the ground. There he stood, with his hands clasped in front of him as he stared up at the two expectantly. "Now, I ask once more; wilt thou be civil or dost thou need further demonstration?" Shaking, and taking Jean into his arms protectively, Hannes stared down at the Blood God for a moment before exchanging a worried glance with his love. "Meine Geliebte, we should be cautious," he warned in a quiet voice. "Let's not antagonise him further and just see what he wants." --- "Come on, this one." the officer with the hitman said as he pushed him into an empty cell. Considering he was the one who'd brought him into the precinct, he guessed he would have to be the one to guard him too.

Denix Vames - July 1, 2024 James placed a hand on his shoulder. Though it was a tight grip, he meant it as a gesture from a friend. He sighed, "I know I'm not a vampire. But I want to help in any way I can. I can't exactly bite you but maybe I can do something else. Whatever that is, just let me know. From my experience, especially with you, I've learned that holding those thoughts back only make you feel worse. That's why I use to lash out." --- Vincent clenched his fists, "Who are you tell me that?! You're not her father! I am!" Carter walked over, "Whoa! Hey now. Let's just all try to calm down, ok?" (definitely) --- Charles sighed, "Unfortunately, we don't have any standing cells. I'm not sure but I think I might be able to fuse the broken metal together into a new cell. We'll have to escort him to Hell's cells first." Eris winked at Carol, "You can count on us!" --- Death suddenly grabbed him. Bending him back as if they had been dancing. He then brought him close as he caressed his leg and kissed him. "You are my moonlight in the darkness. I must see all of you." --- Phineas wipe his tears and caught his breath. He turned his head. Looking at him with a nod, "Ok. But that means I have plenty of neighbors to visit in Heaven. Looks like I'll be taking a walk around the neighborhood. It shouldn't take me long." He held a small smile. --- (yeah I can make this work) The boy from the portal had appeared. His eyes continue to glow green. "I know how you feel. I came to this world in hopes of finding a better life for my lover and me. Yet, as soon as we entered, my boyfriend was immediately killed by a pathetic creature. I can see that you had nothing and no one except for that beautiful flute which brought you a voice. A great power against those who would destroy you. Even though it is gone, I can give you the very same abilities. Only far better. You and I can show these bastards what it means to lose something very dear to you. We can make them all suffer." He held out his hand, "My name is Raven. Will you join me?" --- Theron's eyes widened. Shocked that anyone else could control his power. On his knees, he groaned. Trying to catch his breath and still trying to understand what had happened. Jean saw what he had done. His aura became blue. His whole body had changed his anger rose. He flew up, "You don't get to hurt my people and walk around like you belong here!" He raised his hands and fired his energy at the Blood God. --- "I want someone to lock him up and stay behind to keep an eye on him!" Will had said over the radio. "Everyone else can help the city!"

shadowess - June 30, 2024 Hearing this, Damien slowed to a stop in the middle of the bridge as they'd been crossing over the canal. He glanced down at the water for a moment before looking around warily, as if checking if anyone else was within earshot. Finally, his gaze rested on James. "To be honest, I don't know," he answered. "My son is having a leg removed. Although it won't affect him when he enters his afterlife, it will be a permanent change in his mortal life. So, of course, I'm concerned for him. Aside from that, for the first time since I can't remember when I was made to feel vulnerable by that fucker of a vampire... and yet... " he sighed, glancing over the water again. "I don't know... maybe it was the thrill of feeling human and helpless again. Or maybe it's just withdrawals from the venom. But I sort of... want it again. I was bitten before. Donnie forced two other vampires to drink from me but even then I didn't feel what I felt with the last one." Damien shook his head and looked back at James. "I know it doesn't make sense. It confuses me too." he shrugged. "But it doesn't matter anymore. He's safely behind bars and I have a son to worry about. For now, though, I don't want to think about it anymore. None of it. I just want to forget... and feel nothing. I need to..." --- Sebastian's eyebrows furrowed as Vincent snapped at him. He glanced at Neva, feeling awful that the news had frightened her but that was rightfully so, wasn't it? Shouldn't they all be worried? The entire world was hit by this freakish event and now looters were taking advantage of the chaos. Making the streets dangerous even after the quakes had ceased. "Would you rather have remained ignorant?" he questioned Vincent as he pushed himself, with a grunt, to his feet. "We need to be aware of what is happening to remain safe. You saw what we saw, there is chaos out there still. We now need to take steps to prevent it from reaching our doors and harming the ones we love. I understand you don't want your child to be frightened but she is old enough that you can explain this to her calmly. Coddling her won't help." he gestured to Neva and for once, her current age and regressive behaviours were brought into question. She was an eight-year-old with the mannerisms of a four or five-year-old child. (I can't remember her actual age but she's definitely older than she's acting lol) --- Carol glanced in Eris's direction and looked her over with a smirk. "Maybe," she replied coyly. She then grinned at Charles with pride when he arrived. "You've got that right!" she announced then caught Eris's eye as she said this and shuffled on her feet awkwardly. "And Eris helped, I guess." she shrugged with a smirk as if reluctantly sharing the glory. "But we really should get this guy somewhere a little more comfortable. He was pissed before we knocked him out. So he's probably going to be irate when he wakes up and realises his powers are out of reach while he's wearing those cuffs." --- "Like now, your Grace?" Azrael asked as he gave Death a cheeky grin. Whenever he'd reported to Death in the past, he'd always conduct himself professionally. So, although Death would likely be aware of his, Nate's and Gabriel's shenanigans on Earth from Raguel's many complaints, Azrael had been very careful to not let Death see that side of him. But ever since Death confessed his feelings, Azrael thought it would be best that he simply be himself whenever they had a moment alone and didn't need the pretence. He lifted his hand again, caressing Death's cheek before gliding his thumb over his lips. "Your lips are soft," he whispered. "I'm glad to have been gifted to you. To me, you are perfection. I have and would do anything for you. You began with just my loyalty. Now you have my heart." --- Kasper was taken aback by Phineas's reaction. "Of course not. Phineas..." He shook his head and carefully put his book on the little table by the armchair. He stood and walked over to him, placing his hands on his arms and gave them a little, comforting rub. "I don't think that of you. I never will. If anything, you're stronger than I am. I don't think I could ever go back to Earth after the way I died. Being here with you is enough to make me feel safe." Kasper sighed. "That you could even consider going back at all makes you so brave. But going back now for what you want to do... I just don't think that it's wise. You can explain your side of the story but eventually, your account will be lost to history again and again and again. Because that's how history works on Earth. I think it'd be best to leave it to the mortals to interpret. Eventually, those mortals will end up here and if they want to learn the truth, you can tell them." --- Stevie kept running to the one place that still mattered to him. The place he'd found the wood to make his flute. He sprinted across the park towards the dead tree. He ran up to its split trunk and wrapped his arms around it, sobbing. Both halves of the broken flute still in his hand. "Please talk to me again. Please, please still be here." he wept. "I'll make a new flute. I'll use a stronger varnish this time to make it sturdy. Just talk to me, please... I need a friend... I need your power... Your guidance... I need to make them pay!" he slid to the base of the tree and hugged his knees when he still didn't hear the familiar voice. With all his soul he reach out to the tree, wishing for a friend. Wishing for power. Although he aimed these wishes at the tree, perhaps his mental pleas reached out further than he intended. Especially with vampire venom in his system, amplifying his thoughts and desires. (Perhaps your character from the portal could hear?) --- Bianka was still concerned and confused about the first danger Theron had told her about. She was then surprised by his gasp. "What's wrong? Did they come back?" She asked then blinked and suddenly Theron was gone. "Theron?!" --- Hannes appeared, still weak from giving his blood to help the vampires earlier. But hearing the fear in Jean's voice and having also felt the overwhelming aura from the ancient one, he stood firm in front of his beloved. Ready to protect him. The ancient Blood God saw this and only had enough time to raise an eyebrow slightly before Theron appeared. Frowning, the Blood God lifted his hand in a calm manner. The blood daggers were diverted upwards and all of them embedded into the ceiling instead. "Childe of Lillith. Dost thou not wonder why thy power stems from blood?" he asked calmly then flexed his fingers. As he did so his power radiated and in an instant he had seized control of the blood in Theron's veins, forcing him to kneel. "Cease this violence, at once," he ordered him as he let go of him then turned his attention back to Hannes and Jean. "Most curious," he commented as he studied the two interestedly for a moment. --- "Yes sir!" one of the officers said quickly as they turned to escort the prisoner inside. It was only once they'd walked towards an empty cell that they noticed another empty cell which had previously been occupied. The officer pinched the radio on their shoulder. "Uh, sir? There's a prisoner missing," they said uncertainly then within half a second of him letting go of his radio, another transmission came through. This time it was from the emergency operators, reporting several cases of looting and rioting across the city and calling all precincts to assist.

Denix Vames - June 7, 2024 "Are you ok? I know I'm not the first person to go to when it comes to feelings but I figured I should ask." ,said James. --- Vincent grabbed the remote from Sebastian's hand. Turning the TV off instantly. "It's ok sweetie. Everything's going to be fine." He glared at Sebastian. "Don't ever do that again." Carter glanced over. He focused back on the call, "Thanks for the update. I have to go check on everyone else. Just stay safe." He hung up. --- Charles nodded. "Thank you friend." He disappeared. --- "I can only teleport but that will be enough." ,said Insanity. He sat on his shoulder. Both Insanity and Abaddon disappeared. Eris pointed at herself, "If you're feeling feisty, I'm your gal!" She winked at Carol. Charles appeared. "Ah I see everything has been taken care of. It is good to see that I can trust you with anything, Carol." --- Abaddon immediately stood up. Causing Insanity to fly to a counter. Abaddon's eyes widened. He was shaking as he stepped back, "Where am I?! I don't want to be here! Get away from me!" He pushed past the nurses and doctors. One of them jabbed him with a needle. He could feel himself losing consciousness. He was placed on a moving bed as he soon as he fell asleep. Insanity flew over. Sitting by his head where he rubbed his head against his. Making sure everyone would see him as a concerned pet of his. --- "No need to apologize. I enjoy your sudden actions." Death gave him a seductive grin. "Please continue to do so. Of course when we are not surrounded by others." --- Phineas clenched his fists, "Is that why you don't want me to go down to earth? Or is it because you think I'll get hurt again? Like a pathetic damsel?" He grabbed his own arms. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to say it like that. I'm just....I don't know." --- Winters shouted, "Wait! Stop!" Cory slammed his fist on the ground, "Damn it!" Autumn helped Cory up with Winters on the other side to help. "We need to head to the school. C'mon!" Both would help Cory to the front office where he would be taken in to the nurse's office to rest. --- Theron clutched his head. "Never again! I made him leave for a reason!" He gasped when he felt the Ancient Blood God's aura. --- Jean pressed himself against the wall. Using it as support. He shivered but continue to glare. "H-Hannes!" Theron suddenly appeared. His eyes glowed as he opened his mouth. Spatting out his blood which hardened into daggers all heading straight towards the Ancient Blood God. --- Will ran over to the body. Once he got a good look of the officer, he immediately punched the side of a cruiser. "Someone better take that bitch to holding before I do it myself!"

shadowess - June 6, 2024 Seeing that James didn't laugh at his joke and seemed to want to ask something serious, Damien's own smile slipped. "Of course. What's on your mind?" --- "We're fine, everyone's fine. A few things fell off the walls and some delicate stuff broke but that's it, thank God. I don't know who built this place but they did a damn good job! Glad to hear you're all ok, too!" Atma replied. "Have you seen the news though? This wasn't just in the US, it happened across the world! Turn on the TV, doesn't matter what channel." Sure enough, there would be extensive coverage of the damage caused across the world on every channel as 'breaking news'. So far none of the reporters had any idea what the actual cause was. They would continually mention that scientists and government officials from across the world were working on getting answers but then as typical media does they'd sprinkle in their own speculations while simultaneously urging the public to remain calm. Some cities were hit worse than others and in some places, the civilians were so panicked upon learning that the quake had hit the entire world that they believed it was the beginning of a global extinction event and had begun rioting. "This is insane!" Sebastian gasped as they watched. "Daddy?" Neva became nervous and looked to them for comfort. Despite the coverage, not one channel mentioned anything about the portal or even reported anywhere near it. This was, of course, to prevent any civilians from trying to make their way there in case they tried to cross over into the other world or potentially make the portal bigger. --- Raguel nodded. "I understand," he said again. "I imagine both yourself and your wife are run off your feet trying to fix Hell," he commented, having no idea that Amelia was currently sick. "Just know that should you run into this boy, you will have Heaven's support in subduing him. In the meantime, I wish you and your family well." --- Hearing Abaddon's questions and Insanity's conclusion that he had amnesia, Carol frowned. "So... no tentacles, no memory and no more brutal Devil-beating strength?" she asked, sounding disappointed before standing up and dusting herself off with a sigh. "And just like that I'm dryer than the Sahara desert..." she rolled her eyes. "I wonder if Frenchie boy is free after this..." she mumbled to herself then glanced back at Insanity. "You uh-..." she faltered, realising the size difference between Abaddon and Insanity. "Are you able to take 'mr-no-memory' to a hospital? I need to help 'lady-you' with the psycho Devil." --- Surprised by the kiss, Azrael tensed for just a second and then melted into Death's arms. Entranced, he couldn't take his eyes off Death as he spoke. He'd always found him to be inspiring but right now he seemed particularly beautiful to him. He blushed at the compliment and felt his heart flutter with excitement as he dared to lift his hand to glide his fingers over his cheek. Tracing his jawline with his fingertips. It was a small movement but doing so had felt so improper, so brazen, so... thrilling. He pulled his hand back quickly and cleared his throat while clasping his hands behind his back. "Forgive me, your Grace. I forget myself," he said quickly. Thankful that they were both alone. --- Kasper frowned. He understood Phineas's want to do something like that but was hesitant to agree with it. "I don't think it'd be as straightforward as you might like," he said carefully, contemplating his words before saying them. "I know you'd like people to understand and to not feel sad but I believe some things are better left in the past. For the next few generations to speculate. You could go back to explain your side and have everything go perfectly but then would you really want to do that again and again over the next millennia or so when Earth's history becomes vague again and the newest generations of mortals are digging for answers once more?" he asked. In the short time that they'd been in Heaven, Kasper had spent most of it coming to terms with their new immortality and what that meant. "Or, hear me out, you let the past go. All of it. Let it lie and focus on the here and how. On us. On our new life together in paradise. Mortals will always be asking questions and trying to solve mysteries. Sometimes they do it even after a mystery is already solved and hold debates over its meaning. I don't think that will ever change. But, if it would make you feel better, you can always answer those questions when they inevitably arrive in Heaven, once their own time has come." --- The shock of having the flute ripped from his hands made Stevie freeze. He watched helplessly as the flute broke against the bench as if it had happened in slow motion. His eyes snapped back to Cory as he professed his love and he watched him collapse without moving from where he stood. He stared at Cory for a long moment as he spoke and slowly his eyes drifted back over to the broken flute. He couldn't hear it anymore. The voice. The whispers. They were gone. Leaving a deep emptiness in Stevie that he simply couldn't bear. This rapidly gave way to rage as he watched Cory telling Winters that they would need to talk. Through bitter tears, he gritted his teeth. "You bastard!" he raved. "You talk of love and trust?! Hypocrite!" His eyes were wild with anger and hatred. "What about Winters? He loves you and trusts you! Now you ask me to love and to trust you?! Or is this an act to save your own ass after making the mistake of already betraying my trust?! Do you mean to go back to him when I'm no longer a threat?! Because if that's so then why bother at all?! YOU'VE KILLED THE ONLY ONE THAT REALLY CARES ABOUT ME! THE ONE THAT GAVE ME THE STRENGTH AND POWER THAT I NEEDED TO FIGHT BACK! HE'S GONE! YOU THREE WERE SUPPOSED TO BE MY FRIENDS BUT YOU DID NOTHING! NOTHING! YOU TOLD ME TO HIDE MY POWER THEN WENT BACK TO YOUR HAPPY FUCKING LIVES AND YOUR HAPPY FUCKING FAMILIES WHILE I WENT BACK TO MY SHITTY HOME AND MY DRUNK ASS PARENTS WHO HIT ME IF I JUST BREATHED WRONG!" Tears streamed down his cheeks. He was seething as he continued to scream at them. His anger had hit boiling point. "AND IT'S NOT LIKE I COULD ESCAPE IT ALL AT SCHOOL EITHER WITH THE BULLIES ALWAYS PUSHING ME AROUND, STEALING FROM ME OR BEATING ME FOR FUN AND THE WHORE ASS TEACHERS WHO DO NOTHING ABOUT IT!" He breathed heavily but switched from screaming to growling. "But I was going to make it all stop. They were all going to get what they deserved like my parents and those twats that cornered me in the park! But you..." he glared at Cory darkly. "I was going to spare you. The three of you. But you ruined it. You took the one thing I had that gave me control over my life. The only real friend I will ever have. And you killed him." He strode over to his broken flute and picked it up, cradling it gently like an injured pet in his hands as he let out a short, bitter sob. He looked back at the trio and glared at them in turn. "Don't come looking for me," he warned, then took off. Running from the school grounds as fast as his legs could carry him. --- Bianka thought about Theron's words carefully before responding. The news was certainly surprising but stranger things had happened in the castle lately. "You're able to converse with this person? Are you able to find them?" she asked slowly. She wanted to know as much as possible to consider their position and whether there was anything they could or should do. --- Not knowing what else to do, Tristan remained still and silent as he watched the pair with bated breath. The ancient Blood God smiled. There was no malice in his smile, yet it wasn't friendly either. He took a step towards Jean and standing at over six and a half feet in length, a surprising height for a man of his era, he loomed over Jean. Looking down at him. Up until now, he had been suppressing his own aura. The others could only identify him as a Blood God from the scent of his blood but this was no indication of how powerful he was. But a Blood God of his age, who had once spent his time hunting and drinking from Devils and Angels alike until he absorbed their very essence to grow his own strength was very powerful indeed. And for just a split second he let both Tristan and Jean feel the extent of this power. An intense, overwhelming and almost suffocating sense of this being's potential. For less than a moment, both Tristan and Jean would become aware that if this creature should so choose, he could snatch them both up easily to drain them and drain them until there was nothing left of them. Then their own essence, their very souls would empower him further. 'Great Slaughterer of the Gods' his words would echo in their minds as they felt this and know that it was no mere title bourne out of ego. Only the 'Gods' he consumed were once Blood Gods that had challenged him or tried to take his power for their own. But this ancient one, this Shezmu, was not without mercy. He was willing to overlook Jean's slight this one time, but only if he'd bend the knee. Shaking and looking paler than normal, Tristan had dropped to his knees. Bowing his head to the Blood God. He didn't say a word but his short, quick breaths gave away his struggle to contain his fear. Just as quickly as he'd extended it, Shezmu suppressed his aura once more. Not wanting to intimidate them more than was necessary to get his point across. "I can be understanding, young one. But my mercy has its limits. Art thou willing to step down or wouldst thou challenge me further?" --- Relieved that Will had neutralised the threat, Hayward and the other officer moved out of their cover to greet him. Hayward was gripping her wounded shoulder but waved it off as not a big deal. After all, it could have been worse... she could have shared the fate of the officer who had been downed. She told Will who it was and where their body was still lying. She and the other officer were still in shock, as she was sure Will would be, too. But now wasn't the time to mourn. They still had to deal with the situation professionally so as not to cause further panic to any onlooking civilians. They would need to cordon off the area and wait for the coroners to collect the body. Then there would be paperwork to do. A lot of paperwork. That's not even mentioning how they'd need to handle the criminal but for now, they could at least place him safely behind bars... where they would likely soon discover Tristan's random disappearance.

Denix Vames - June 5, 2024 James frowned, "Damien? Can I tell you something?" --- Carter nodded, "Good idea." He dialed her up. If she did answer, he would say, "Hey Atma? Is everyone in the mansion alright? That earthquake seriously made some damage." --- Charles shrugged, "If he wasn't powerful already, he is most likely more powerful now. It's interesting how anger and bitter hatred can lead to such an increase in power. Since his friend was killed right before him...." He tipped his glass over. Watching the water fall. "The battle has truly begun." He stood from the chair. "Unfortunately, Hell has been a victim to this earthquake too. I assume that your men have everything under control. I hate to end this meeting so quickly but I need to make sure Hell gets put back together as well." --- Gabriel only appeared for a split second just to be safe. But it was enough for the bracelet to be sent. Eris placed it over the Devil's wrist. Abaddon slowly opened his eyes, "Hm? Who are you? What am I doing here?" Insanity's eyes widened, "It can't be.....Did taking away his powers make him forget?" Abaddon looked at the bird, "A bird that talks longer than just phrases? That's interesting." --- With all the chaos that had happened so far, it was a blessing to find himself alone with Azrael. Reminding himself of the times when he had received help from him. He couldn't help but grab him and give him a kiss. Death stood back and smiled, "Oh Azrael. You must never change. These plans are simply amazing. I'm sure she will love her new life here." --- Phineas blushed. He couldn't help but return the kiss. He stood back and pondered, "I wonder if I should visit those who wish to see me? Those who want to know who I am? Like those scientists. It wouldn't be dangerous. I would be answering them all sorts of questions. It's just....I feel like they need answers. From what I heard, I left quite a hole in people's hearts. Everyone is sad for me? It's still strange to me but I don't want people feeling bad, ya know?" He awkwardly smiled, "If that's alright with you?" --- Everyone else walked back to the school but Cory fought on. Cory had been forced to take some steps back. Yet, he made himself move toward Stevie. "Stevie.....!" Tears ran down his cheeks. "I know.....it's hard!" He uttered each word as he continued to go against the flute. "But....I need....you....to know...." He suddenly grabbed the flute and threw it on the one of the benches. Breaking it in half. "I love you!" All the students would suddenly stop moving to the roof. Giving everyone a sense of relief and confusion. Cory collapsed. It was the first time he had dealt with something this strong before. "I know I was with Winters but ever since I got to know you things have felt different. It'll break Winters heart. I get that. He'll understand though. Because I need you as much as you need me. And I promise you that I'm never going to leave you." He tried to get up but was still too exhausted. Winters and Autumn ran back to the scene. "Is everyone alright?" ,asked Autumn. "Cory?" ,said Winters. He helped him to the bench. Cory sighed, "Winters. There's a lot to explain but we have to talk." --- Theron silently nodded. He stood up, "That earthquake only occurred because something came through it. A person with immense power. He is grief stricken. He seeks revenge against those who wronged him. He doesn't care who's in his way. He wants to destroy everything. He thought that we were similar. He tried to convince me to join him." He hugged himself, "Had he found me before the castle, I probably would have been a part of his plan. I know what he's feeling. I just wish I could tell him that everything will be alright." --- Jean clenched his fists. "You will leave! Now! Normally, I try to be nice but already I can tell that you're not an understanding person." --- As soon as Will heard that over the radio, he immediately appeared. The hitman took that chance to shoot at him. Will's shield appeared before disappearing. The hitman looked back. "Huh? Where did he go?" "Right behind you." He turned to Will's voice. Will punched him. Causing him to drop his weapon and fall over. He wrapped a hand around his neck. Picking him off the ground. The hitman struggled to get out of his hold. Will glared, "You come into my city and try to kill my officers?! Well guess what? You're in my fucking territory bitch!" The hitman shouted, "Fuck you!" Will threw him at the wall of a building. Causing the hitman to get hurt and pass out. Will took a deep breath. "Ok, my bad. That might have been a bit much." He turned to his officers. "Is everyone alright?"

Shadowess - June 4, 2024 They left the bar and proceeded to walk down the red light district. On one side of them was window after window of exotic dancers with red backdrops. On the other, the canal. Ahead of them was a bridge which they'd turn to walk across, heading towards a different part of the city. "It's so peaceful here." Damien breathed, taking in the soothing sounds of the water from the canal and the birdsong from nearby trees. "Maybe we could get a souvenir while we're here? How about some clogs?" he joked with a cheeky grin. --- "Maybe try Atma? See if everyone at the mansion is ok." Sebastian said, wary not to mention Rickster in case this upset Neva. --- "I understand." Raguel nodded, concealing his surprise at learning Hell's Cells are apparently in need of repair. "Then we will ensure she is as comfortable as possible, despite her incarceration. In the meantime, I'm sure you noticed those quakes. Have they ripped through Hell just as they have with Heaven, Earth and Death's realm?" He would give Charles time to answer before going on to explain: "They were caused by a portal being opened between Earth and another universe. Much like the one that was opened before only this one is larger and hasn't closed itself. As yet, we don't know the reason for it being opened. Only that two boys stepped through. One was regrettably killed, the other fled and has yet to be found. I must appeal to you as the leader of your people to keep an eye out for this boy. Do not underestimate him. He is powerful, that much is certain. But he may be the key to closing the portal before anyone or anything else can step through." --- Carol paused mid-swing when Eris reappeared and finished off the Devil. She took a moment to catch her breath as she and Insanity talked. When she was tapped on the leg, she glanced down at Insanity before looking over at Abaddon. "Oh... no more tentacles?" she breathed, sounding slightly disappointed. "Oh well, not a complete deal breaker, I guess..." she mumbled to herself as she walked over to kneel beside him. She then quickly glanced over at the other devil, as if realising something. "Gabby, sweety? Your bestest frenemy in the world needs one of those fancy angelic handcuffs!" she called out before turning back to Abaddon. She brushed his hair from his face and tilted her head slightly while looking him over to see if he was ok. "Hey, are you still with us handsome?" she asked in a gentle voice. --- "Quite the opposite, your Grace," Azrael answered with a smile. "I was hoping to show you a few things I've been working on. To see if you would approve. My notes are in my office." Lilly watched the pair leave the room before looking around awkwardly, not really knowing what to do with herself just yet. She imagined she'd get used to living here in time and that she would find things to occupy herself with. Maybe she'd even find a hobby... imagine that! She wandered over to one of the tall stone windows and peered out over the village square below them. She watched reapers and spirits going about their business as usual. Her mind began to drift as she daydreamed of the kinds of things she might do once she'd settled down properly. Meanwhile, in Azrael's study, he showed Death his plans for the coronation. The village fair to bring the Reapers together to celebrate. The plans for the ball with honoured guests from each world. Azrael was both excited and nervous to share these with Death as he scratched the back of his head and showed him each plan. "They're only rough drafts... ideas mostly." he said modestly, although the 'rough drafts' were planned right down to the smallest detail. "I also drew up a schedule for the Princess's education. Seeing as she's from an entirely different universe, I thought it best to include all academics from science and mathematics to art and culture. So... what do you think, you Grace?" --- "Come here" Kasper chuckled and reached out to him with one hand. When Phineas would approach, he'd grip his shirt to gently pull him down and kiss him lovingly. "Never in my life did I imagine that this would be my idea of Heaven, but you know what? It is infinitely better than anything I could have dreamt up." --- Stevie's tune trilled as he stared hard at Cory and the others. Angry tears stung his eyes as he strained to keep up the melody. He wanted to scream at them. To ask Cory how he could betray his trust. But he'd already started playing and the flute willed him to continue. Whispering that it was the only real friend he had. The only one he could trust. They had their chance, now they had to die with the rest of them! Stevie played harder. Louder. Now willing the music to enrapture his friends. To force them to march to the top of the building with the rest. --- "There is always going to be danger, Theron!" Bianka snapped back. Frustrated that she still didn't understand what the problem was. "We, all of us, must face dangers one way or another. That is life, my son! It takes many forms and makes little difference where you are when it happens. But if you have friends and family to fight by your side then you will always stand a greater chance at survival. I appreciate that you wish to protect me but if my protection comes at the cost of losing one of my family or a person I love being isolated... then I'd rather not be protected at all! I would rather fight alongside you than have you leave. Do you understand me?" She was both fierce and passionate when speaking. Like a mother defending her child, she stood ready to tackle anything that threatened them. "Now speak to me, Theron. Tell me plainly. What is it that we must face?" --- Tristan's eyes widened. The last time he'd seen Jean he'd been about to do some unsavoury things to him before being beaten to a pulp by a burning Hannes. But now he was different. Something about Jean had changed dramatically and Tristan could smell it in his blood. He was more powerful now. "Shit!" he gasped as he took a couple of steps backwards, away from them both. He quickly pointed to the ancient Blood God while looking at Jean. "I didn't want to come back here! He made me! If you let me leave you'll never see me again, I swear it!" "Cur." The ancient one sneered at Tristan's plea. Unimpressed by his cowardice. He turned his attention back to Jean, looking him up and down. "I am Shezmu. Lord of Blood. Great Slaughterer of the Gods. He Who Dismembers Bodies. And I have come to reclaim my throne, as is my right. Dost thou contest this, half-blood?" --- "Hayward!" The other officer screamed as he watched her hit the ground. Haywards gripped her shoulder but scrambled to her feet. "Move!" she barked at the officer. "Take cover!" she darted behind a nearby vehicle with the officer close behind her. She quickly peered over the hood of the car and fired a couple of shots in the last known direction the hitman had been in. She then quickly ducked behind the car again while pinching the walkie-talkie on her shoulder. "Officer Hayward requesting backup! Shots fired! One officer down, one shot. I repeat. Shots fired! One officer down, one shot!"