Balance The Realms Nov 2024 - May 2025

[Denix Vames]

Vincent sighed, "Alright. But you better be back here soon. Otherwise, I'm calling for extra help from Carter. There's only so much we can do."

---

Xenos pinched the brim of his nose, "I don't mean quickly. I meant talk to some vampires around the castle. Get to know them. Find someone who would understand you just as much as you understand them. Build relationships. It doesn't have to be romantic like River said. Just a vampire that you know would fight alongside you during the toughest battles. Do you get what I mean?"

---

Blake was about to rebuttal against the idea of killing anyone but once Kris mentioned the vampire idea, he grew pale. He nodded, "Y-Yes sir." The Trickster stood against the wall and glared at the boy, "With all due respect sir, you once trained me as a child. Surely, this thing-" He immediately shut his mouth once Kris gave him that look. Blake uttered, "I know I said sir but what do I call you?"

---

The hitman wrapped an arm around Henderson, "Alrighty then! Let's introduce myself!"

Inside, every other officer stood with their gun raised. The hitman nonchalantly waved his hands, "Settle down coppers! I come in peace as a traitor of my organization. I've got good details on the whereabouts of my boss." Will appeared. Startling the hitman, "Whoa! A bit of a warning next time, please?" Will suddenly grabbed his neck and pinned him against the wall. "Tell me why I shouldn't kill you right now?" The hitman awkwardly smiled, "Cause I'm hot?"

---

Death accepted his hand and stood by his side. "Though I'm not really sure how one announces a relationship. Do I use my speaker voice for usual announcements? Or should I bring it up at the ceremony during my speech?"

[Shadowess]

"I know, I know. Thank you again!" Amelia then vanished, appearing in front of Sara. "Ready to find the baby daddy?"

---

"Do you think me a fool that I hadn't already considered this?" Shezmu raised an eyebrow at Xenos. "I am merely disheartened to have awoken to a world where I feel that I am no longer welcome." he sighed and lowered his gaze to the ground. "To return to a home whose people had once considered me their leader only for them to gaze at me with fear and suspicion because I dressed and spoke differently to them. Not one vampire here was alive in my era... I am a stranger now. Lost, alone and looking for a new purpose."

He fell into silent brooding and for a moment, River didn't know what to say or how to react. He couldn't begin to imagine the pain that this ancient being was feeling. He looked at Xenos briefly then gingerly moved over to sit next to Shezmu on the couch. "We might not be from your time, but we're here now. So, at least you're not completely alone. There might only be a few of us now but, you know, it's a start."
"Perhaps you're right," Shezmu said quietly.
"And you were around when there was a lot of us, right? So, if we have any questions about our kind and stuff, we could come to you, right? You'll teach us stuff?"
Shezmu's eyes lifted and he turned his head slightly to look at him. "Of course. My knowledge would be your knowledge."
"Well I'd say our species isn't completely doomed yet, then." River smiled optimistically.
Despite his serious and stoic nature, Shezmu found himself smiling a little in turn.

---

"My name is Kris," he said simply. "Everyone else calls me The Tyrant Trickster of New York. You will call me 'Boss' or 'Sir', understood?" He looked over at the other trickster. "Take him to the bunks and set him up with a bed. I want him washed and rested before his training starts tomorrow."

---

Henderson realised a little too late that the way they'd walked in had made it look like he was the hitman's hostage. He ran over as soon as Will grabbed the hitman. "Wait! Boss, he's telling the truth. Just hear him out. He wants to help us and we could take out the whole seedy organisation!"

---

"I think announcing it at the ceremony would be perfect," Azrael said softly as he brushed his thumb across the back of Death's hand. "It would be romantic and all leaders of the realms would be there to witness it." He blushed as a thought occurred to him. "Would it-..." he started and then hesitated. Gathering his courage, he finished his thought. "Would it be too forward of me to suggest that, while the leaders are here to witness it, we declare our love in a- uh... matrimonial sense?" he asked then bit his lip in anticipation of Death's answer. 

[Denix Vames]

Sara nodded, "I just hope whoever it is that they're not...violent."

Amelia and Sara appeared in Hell's Library. Ash was there with a book in his hand. Reading at a chair to get his mind off of things. Sara gasped. Ash looked up from the book. She shouted, "There he is! The father!" He stood, "Excuse me?" He threw the book at the chair. She replied, "You let your powers out. They came to me and made a child. Your child." He glared, "I didn't choose. I had no choice. All because of that fucking Carol bitch! And her damn new friend. Your child is nothing to me. It is merely a mistake." She lowered her head, "Please sir. For Ophelia's sake-" "And you named her?! Get out of my sight!"

---

Xenos couldn't help but smile too. "Well then. I think we've come to a nice conclusion. Is there anything you need from us?"

---

Blake nodded, "Understood sir." The Trickster escorted Blake. Guiding him to where he could clean himself. He gave the kid some privacy while standing nearby should he try anything stupid. Once Blake reached his bed, in a shirt and boxers, he sat under the covers. "Tell Kris to come here. I need to talk to him." The Trickster raised a brow. He headed to the throne, "Kris! You won't believe it. The kid wants to talk to you. He's already acting like he lives here!" He laughed, "What a pathetic joke!"

---

Will glanced at Henderson, "Are you serious?" The hitman immediately grabbed Will's hand and locked it in place so that he could free himself. He immediately hit certain points of his hand so that Will could move it again. Will looked at him in amazement and shock. The hitman smirked, "Your friend's right. I can take you there. And if anything goes wrong or you think I'm going to betray then you can ahead and kill me. That's how confident I am." Will glared, "Fine. We'll all discuss this in the meeting room but you are definitely going to be close to me. I'm not taking my eyes off of you." The hitman snapped his fingers, "Done deal!" "First, what's your name?" "Uh Well-" "You said you're betraying them. So, what's your name?" The hitman reluctantly answered, "It's....Dick." He sighed, "Get the damn jokes out of the way already."

---

Death blushed. His eyes widened. He wasn't sure what to think at that moment. Then joyful tears appeared. He held both of his hands, "Oh Azrael. Already time has paired us together. For us to do such a human tradition? It would be wonderful. Though, I am not in favor of bright colors like most humans are."

[Shadowess]

"Ok. No." Amelia growled as she marched over to Ash angrily. "Get off your ass! And show this woman some respect!" She shook her head. "Have you any idea what she's been through today? I don't know how it happened but I do know that the child is here now as a result whether you meant it or not. That makes you responsible! So, step up and stop being a selfish prick!"

---

"No. Thank you both for answering my call." Shezmu nodded to him. 
River frowned. "I feel weird leaving you like this after you just found us."
Shezmu smiled at him. "Go." he reassured him. "I will be fine and you are both welcome to visit me any time."

---

While Blake had been getting washed up, Kris had moved into another room with a large rectangular wooden table in its centre. On it were various maps of the city, as well as the underground and sewer systems. As well as blueprints for different stores and clubs in the area. He'd been looking over these carefully when the other Trickster had walked in. Hearing him, Kris couldn't help but look at him and chuckle. "I hope he's not expecting a bedtime story." he put some of the blueprints down and walked over to the door. "Ortiz, why don't you and a couple of the guys check in on Miss Blaire over at the Vampire club and make sure those filthy leeches know not to stray onto our turf again? Set an example of what happens when Vampires cross into Trickster territory." 

He left the room and headed into the bunks. Named so for the rows of bunk beds on either side of the room. Right now, Blake was the only one in the room. Other young Tricksters lived and trained here as part of Kris's gang but right now they were all out running errands and wouldn't be back until the early hours of the morning. Kris opened the door and stepped in with his hands in his pockets. He said nothing as he walked further into the room. His boots sounded heavy with each step on the hard, cold concrete floor. He stopped at the foot of Blake's bunk and turned to look down at him emotionlessly. "Talk to me."

---

Surprisingly there came no laughs. No jabs or jokes. The officers were as professional as they were on their guard. The hitman might be telling them the truth, but that didn't mean they'd relax around him. After all, he'd put one of their own in the hospital not that long ago. The only reaction to Dick's name was a cold silence.
"Um..." Henderson mumbled, trying to break the tension. "In old comics, the detectives were sometimes called dicks. Like in the Noir ones with the weird funny way that the detectives describe things..." he trailed off, a little embarrassed and feeling like he'd just outed himself as a complete nerd. In truth, those comics were one of the reasons he became a cop.

---

"Neither am I." Azrael laughed softly. His own happy tears rolled down his cheeks. "So, we'll have it in our traditional dark tones." he grinned, barely able to contain his joy as he wrapped his arms around Death. "I don't think I could ever be happier than I am in this moment!"

[Denix Vames]

Ash growled, "Or what?!" He glared with bitter tears, "Your right hand woman already took most of my powers! I have nothing left! I am a mere Demon now with no title to respect! I could care less now if you sent me into Oblivion!"

---

Xenos replied, "I do have one concern that I wish to discuss with you." He glanced at River, "You may go."

---

Ortiz nodded, "I'll give them the message."

With Ortiz gone, Blake could hear that it was only Kris. He had teary eyes then held a look of determination. "Tell me sir. Am I only ever going to be a tool for you? A skeleton key?" He gripped the covers. "I know you warned me about what would happen if I didn't listen. I won't ignore that. What I wonder is, can I expect any ounce of respect or pride from you about....me?" He couldn't exactly say it since it felt embarrassing but Blake secretly wanted Kris to act like a father figure to him even if the guy was a crook. He had longed for a parent who actually gave a shit. Though he wasn't exactly hopeful about a guy like Kris.

---

Dick scoffed, "Well I'll be! No jokes! Giving me total respect? I like that!" He made his way to the meeting room, "You lot and I are gonna get along just fine." Will said, "Wait! How do you know where the meeting room is?" Dick pointed at the sign, "Duh! I may be hitman but I'm not an idiot." Will flustered, "Oh..." He had for a minute believed that Dick had looked into everything about the precinct.

Dick opened the door and waved everyone over, "Now come in! I've got a good layout of things to tell." He winked at Henderson, "Especially for you, ya sexy nerd."

---

Death returned the hug, "Oh? I wager on that for we have yet to see our children be honored. To see them up there will bring tears of joy to my eyes! I know it so!"

[Shadowess]

Amelia faltered. "What do you mean she took your powers? Carol doesn't have that kind of power," she asked. She glanced back at Sara briefly then tilted her head back to give an exasperated sigh. "I'm not going to destroy you, Ash. And I can't force you to be a father, either." She lowered her head to look at him tiredly. "I don't know what happened to you and I'm sorry that I couldn't help when you clearly needed it. But taking your anger out on this kid, who has done nothing but exist, isn't right. Don't be angry with Sara or Ophelia. They're victims in this too." she hesitated then turned away from him to look at Sara. Ash may not be willing to care but she still had a duty to make sure they would be ok. "C'mon, Sara," she said softly. "Let's give him some space and go home. I'll help you set up the nursery then we'll go and get Ophelia, ok?"

---

Sensing Xenos's question may be private, River nodded and stood before vanishing. When they were alone, Shezmu looked up at Xenos curiously. "What is troubling you?"

---

Kris stared at Blake for a long moment. The corner of his mouth twitched briefly but his cold expression didn't change. Lost, orphaned or abandoned trickster kids were unfortunately common and it wasn't unusual for a few of them to end up on Kris's doorstep asking for shelter, training and some form of parental figure. He preferred it like this. It meant the kids were more likely to grow up to be fiercely loyal to him. "Maybe," he answered. "But you have to earn it, like every other member of my gang. Show me every day that you are worthy of my respect and you could have quite the happy life here. I might even teach you a few of my own tricks... if you work hard enough to earn it."

---

Henderson followed the other officers into the meeting room and felt his cheeks grow hot when Dick made his comment about him. Then he caught the eye of a few of his colleagues who had given him a quick glare. He felt suddenly torn. He was attracted to Dick but he knew his colleagues would see it as a betrayal after what the hitman had done to one of their own. So he lowered his eyes shamefully and waited for the meeting to get started.

---

"Our children!" Azrael repeated as he realised that marrying Death would make them all a family. He laughed and wiped the tears from his eyes. "Then this is merely the beginning of our happiness! Oh, my love!" he kissed him softly. "My heart is singing." he chuckled.

[Denix Vames]

Ash studied Sara for a moment, "Wait." Sara looked up. He spoke, "Carol showed me emotions. That's why my powers dwindled. I fed off of violence. With this change in myself though, I don't know what I am anymore. I fear I am not the same being as I once was. I feel lost and confused as pathetic as that sounds. I...wish to see this child. If you'll allow me to, Sara." She held a spark in her eyes. A form of hope. She nodded, "I think you'll like her."

---

Xenos said, "I have a family. A wife and son. However, my attitude has become more violent. I fear for the safety of my family. I have let my powers get to my head. What do you suggest?"

---

Blake nodded, "Ok. Thanks for....the shelter then. Goodnight sir." He laid on his side and threw the covers over himself.

---

Dick had read the room and suddenly his cheery smile became a frown. He spoke, "I'm sorry about killing one of your own. And shooting the other fella. I know I can't take it back but I can make up for it, right? I'll give the location and everything will be fair."

Will sighed, "I can see you are different now. Clearly, you're not trying to kill us but the law is the law." He pulled out some handcuffs. Dick held out his hands, "Guess it only makes sense." Will cuffed him, "I'll let your hands be in front of you for the sake of showing us whatever details you have. After that, they'll be behind you."

Dick quickly went back to his eager smile and began talking about a paper company that was only disguised as such. The truth was that supernatural creatures were locked up and used for the assassin's gang and the boss. With the address given, Will reached for the cuffs. The cuffs suddenly fell off. Dick held up a lock pick, "Sorry fellas! But I don't look good in orange."

He ran to a window and opened it. Will immediately reached out with his aura. Locking him in place. Dick awkwardly chuckled, "Right. I forgot you lot are special."

---

Death replied, "Let us go see them! Surely, they are done with their chores."

[Shadowess]

Amelia watched Ash carefully as he spoke. "It sounds like you've gone through a lot today," she commented. "You should be proud, you know. It takes courage to be honest about how you feel and open to change." She looked between the two and offered them each a hand to take. "Let's go see your daughter."

---

"You have a son?" Shezmu blinked at Xenos in confusion. Wondering how such a thing could be possible. It occurred to him that his son might be adopted. Contemplating Xenos's problem for a moment, Shezmu relaxed in his seat with his arms folded. "That is not an easy question to answer. We are dominant by nature. Born to rule. In my time, we were the highest authority on Earth. I have to admit, coming back to the world as it is now... I am at a bit of a loss myself. I used to rule part of this castle with four other Blood Gods. But now? No more than a guest." he sighed. "If I could offer you some advice? Find a role in this world that provides you with a position of power and spend your energy commanding your forces to defend your home and your family. As long as you don't allow yourself to become pent up, you shouldn't have a problem. Oh, and don't forget to 'hunt'. Properly. One way we can keep our appetites in check is to feed on our natural pray... Angels, Demons and Devils. You needn't destroy them in the process. I have found that forming a bargain with a variety and taking a small amount from each per night is enough to placate 'the beast' within." 

---

Kris was quiet for a moment as he continued to stare at the boy. Then he turned and his heavy boots could be heard walking away from the bunk towards the door. The door opened but the boot steps had stopped. "Goodnight Blake," Kris said before leaving the room, closing the door behind him. Once he was out of the room he smiled to himself before heading out to catch up with Ortiz. He wanted to know how his message was going down.

---

For a moment, Henderson had been proud of Dick for letting Will handcuff him and seemingly taking responsibility for his actions. His pride was short-lived when the cuffs fell off and the hitman had unsuccessfully tried to make a break for freedom. Bitterly, Henderson shook his head at him a little and crossed his arms. He looked at Will. "Sir, I'd like to put my name in for this mission," he said. "I wana help take these guys off the streets."

---

Back in the archive room, by now the only things covered with dust and grime were Lilly and Raven. They had cleaned everything else so thoroughly that the surfaces practically gleamed. "I think I've learned my lesson..." Lilly huffed as she wiped some sweat from her forehead. "I never want to see a feather duster or a washcloth again..." 

---

Hot water struck Damien's face as he stood in Samson's shower. He closed his eyes and let it flow over him as his mind raced. Looking down he watched the blood that had been caked onto his skin as it washed off and swirled around the drain. This was his moment alone. Where he could be with his thoughts and try to figure out what had happened Recalling the day's events, he couldn't help but feel torn. His mind flashed with memories of the men they'd murdered just a few hours ago. What was he feeling here? Guilt? Pride? Satisfaction? Sick to his stomach?

All of it was the answer. All of it, all at once and it was overwhelming. Lifting his hands, he held his right wrist as he stared at it. Remembering the angelic bracelet that had been slapped there before. His punishment for losing control of his temper. For abusing his powers. His hands started to tremble at the thought that he could be rendered powerless again if the others ever found out about what he'd done. If they did, would they ever take it off this time? Or find a way to make it permanent? The thought terrified him. More frightening to him than that was the thought of how his loved ones would react. David, Alex, River, Parker, James... They'd be so disappointed. They thought he was getting better. That he had wanted to be better. But he did, didn't he? Yes. Damien knew he wanted to be a better man. To be better for them. But...

He bit his lip. Images of the bloodshed again. Of Samson cutting through those men. Then lying on his bed. There was that excitement again. Back in that warehouse, Samson had been right when he'd said he'd enjoyed it. He wanted it again. To feel that rush. And Samson... God! Samson... It wasn't love. Damien was well aware of that. But there was something there. An attraction. A strong one. Infatuation? Definitely. The man himself was like a drug that Damien would give anything to have another hit of. He wanted so badly to kill with him again. To feel his fangs in his throat again. His hands... Shaking his head, Damien turned to let the water hit his back instead. 

It was dangerous. He should end it here. Never see Samson again. Damien bit his lip again. He knew this line of thinking was the rational thing to do. That he should follow through with it. But he knew he wasn't going to. He couldn't bring himself to. The truth was, while he'd been standing in the stream of hot water he'd had an idea that he simply couldn't resist. Against all his better instincts, this was going to be the start of his double life. A family man on the road to recovery at home. And in secret, he would come to Samson to let off steam and live a life of excitement.

When he'd finished washing himself, Damien stepped out and wrapped a towel around his waist. Steam rose from his toned muscles as he made his way back into the bedroom to borrow some clothes from Samson. 

[Denix Vames]

Ash bit his lip. Unsure what to make of her compliment.

Once all three appeared at Vincent's home, they would see Ophelia sleeping against Vincent who was also fast asleep. Elliot and Neva were sleeping right beside them. Oliver was in Elliot's arms. The whole family was sitting there in a deep sleep. Exhausted from trying to keep Ophelia happy.

Sara gently took Ophelia into her arms. Ophelia yawned. She opened her eyes and smiled at her mother. Ash leaned over so that Ophelia could look at him. Ophelia stared at him before reaching out. Ash seemed surprised. Sara nodded at him, "Go ahead. She wants you." He took her in his arms and looked into those eyes. Ophelia babbled happily. Ash said, "She....She knows. And she doesn't fear me?"

---

Xenos nodded, "I shall take your words to heart. Good day."

---

Ortiz and Blaire were talking in front of the club after Ortiz made his violent warning against the vampires. Blaire waved Kris over, "Hey man. Sorry about the beef. I'm just here to booze up the customers. What they do on their free time isn't my responsibility. I'll be sure to ban any no good bloodsuckers out though. Drinks are on me when you decide to visit, ok?"

---

Will grabbed the back of Dick's jacket. He shoved him towards Henderson, "How about convincing this guy to give up on escaping? And actually try to follow the law? That'll be your first part in this mission. I'll be sure to put your name in a big neon sign too." That last comment was a joke but Will was serious about putting Henderson's name on the file as part of the officers helping out in this mission.

Dick dusted himself off and sighed, "Guess I'm in big trouble?" He awkwardly smiled at Henderson, "Don't mind cutting me some slack?"

---

Raven caught his breath, "Me either."

Death entered the archives, "It's good to see you children! I see the two of you have finished! We have grand news!" Azrael was right behind him.

---

Samson was under the covers and reading a book. He smirked at Damien, "Hope the shower was hot enough. Though, I don't know how you would fair well with my suits. They have a reminder of Victorian era while remaining modern."

[Shadowess]

"That's because you're her family." Amelia smiled while whispering softly so as not to wake the others. She looked at her own child with loving eyes. "Becoming a parent isn't easy. But it's worth it. Just to see the way they look up to you with unconditional love and trust." she bent down to carefully pry Oliver from Elliot's arms. Lifting him into her own, she cradled him to her chest. She'd missed him while she'd been busy and wanted nothing more than to take him home now. She looked back up at the pair with their child. "So, what do you think Ash? Ready to become her daddy?"

---

Kris walked over to them. There wasn't much to see now but he was sure Ortiz had made their warning clear. He smiled and shook his head at Blaire. "Au contraire, dear sweet Blaire." he almost sang in a mock rhyme. "Your patrons use your establishment as a safe place to gather night after night. Those vampires respect you, even though you're human because you provide them with shelter and easy food. If there is anyone in this town they'll listen to, it's you." he booped her nose with his finger. "Now, I can be a reasonable guy. I can look the other way when a vampire's snack turns out to be mutually beneficial. But I can't ignore vampires wandering into my turf and trying to devour my young Tricksters. So, just make sure you tell your vampires to stay in their lane. Or your patrons might find themselves sipping on wolf venom-tainted blood one night. Understood?" Although his tone seemed friendly, his stare was hard. Combined with the threat he just gave, he came off as dangerous. Menacing. 

---

Henderson was almost knocked off his feet when Dick was shoved into him. He gripped his arm to keep him from running off and frowned, feeling like this was some kind of punishment to him too. He ignored Dick's comments. Too annoyed at him to talk to him. "Yes, sir," he said to Will in a serious tone then waited to see which other officers would be joining them on this mission.

---

Azreal couldn't stop smiling as he followed Death into the archives. He turned to the Reapers who had been watching the teens. "Leave us," he told them politely and while he waited for them to give the little group some privacy, he looked around the archive with an impressed expression. 
Lilly watched the Reapers leave and was even more curious about this news now than she had been a moment ago. "Father? Has something happened?"

---

Damien shrugged as he opened a wardrobe to look at the clothes. "I'm used to wearing suits. Lucifer used to say there was no better garment to command respect..." he trailed off. Why had he said that? He had become so comfortable around Samson that this tidbit of information slipped out so naturally. He faltered for a second and glanced back at him. "Lucifer trained me when I became a Devil," he explained briefly then went back to looking through the wardrobe. While picking out an outfit, he glanced at the book in his hands. "What're you reading?"

[Denix Vames]

Ash touched Ophelia's face, "I don't know what it means to be a father." Sara replied, "That's ok. I'm still learning how to be a mother. We can learn together." She held out her hand. He accepted it. Soon, both were back in the penthouse.

---

Blaire gave out a thumbs up, "Got it fellas."

---

Dick's eyes widened. Not believing that Henderson had just ignored him. He found himself at a loss for words. He frowned. Devastated to see that he had made Henderson feel terrible.

With whoever else was assigned on the mission, Dick was focused on Henderson as he was being guided to the cells. He clenched his fists, "Hey sexy? I didn't mean to upset ya. I was just doing what I do best. Being a clown. It's all I'm good at, ya see. And I'm not exactly excited about federal prison. I'm....scared, ok? Scared shitless!"

---

Death replied, "Azrael and I are going to get married! We have been dating for a bit and decided on such a thing. In turn, this would make us both your parents!" Raven raised a brow, "Uh Congrats? I'm not sure how I should feel right now. This is very sudden. And I still can't comprehend, Azrael being a father to me."

---

Samson replied, "Dracula. It's always good to take a look at literature based around your own kind. Just to see how humans portray you and your people. I say they did a pretty good job with this one."

[Shadowess]

Amelia watched the little family leave and smiled to herself. She had a good feeling that they'd be alright. Holding Oliver to her in one arm, she wandered around the house to grab a pen and paper. Then she wrote a note for Vincent and Elliot to let them know they'd picked the kids up so that they wouldn't panic when they woke up. In her note, she also thanked them for their help and to call her if they needed anything. She folded the note against the table then stood and carefully slipped it into Elliot's hand before teleporting home. 

She carefully placed Oliver into his crib and then walked into the bedroom to check on Charles as well as update him on what had happened.

---

"Good girl." Kris grinned then turned to Ortiz as they started walking away. He spoke quietly so that only his right-hand man would hear him. "Dig up what you can on her. I want every advantage we can get if shit hits the fan. Find out if she's close to any of her patrons so that we can use them as leverage if she starts acting out."

---

Henderson paused and looked at Dick in frustration. "You said you wanted to help us! I told you we'd have to do this properly. By the book. I get that you're scared but you need to trust me on this. If we can bust these guys then there's bound to be a trial. If you agree to testify, we can grant you immunity and you can start over. But you need to stop with the bullshit and start listening!" He flustered and looked away from Dick for a moment. "You made me look like an ass back there. I spoke up for you. I stuck my neck out and got them to listen to you but you-... you made me look like an idiot for trusting you."

---

"I realise this news is a shock. We had to be careful about our relationship in case our enemies tried to use it against us. But we've decided that hiding is not worth the heartache. We wanted you two to be the first to know." Azrael explained then rose a brow at Lilly's unsurprised expression. "You knew, didn't you?"
"I didn't but I had a hunch. You two only ever seemed happy when you were close to each other. And you spend a lot of time working together." Lilly shrugged and smiled. 
"Ah..." Azreal blushed as he looked at Death. "Aren't you an observant one, Lillian..."
"I'm happy for you two." Lilly chuckled.

---

"Oh? So, you can shapeshift and hypnotise people? Damn, when were you going to tell me you were so talented?" Damien joked as he took a suit out of the wardrobe to get a better look at it. "I heard the Anne Rice vampires were more accurate..." he commented while holding the suit against him and looking in the full-length mirror. 

[Denix Vames]

Charles was in the kitchen. Enjoying a cup of tea. "Amelia, I hope all is going well."

---

Ortiz nodded, "Though it doesn't seem like she ever does break rules. I'll look into it however." He smirked, "So how about that dumb kid? What did he tell you?"

---

Dick lowered his head, "I'm sorry. I really mean it. I never wanted you to look like an idiot in front of your friends. I just....I can be an ass sometimes." He stepped closer, "Just pretend that I'm caressing your face since my hands are cuffed behind me." He pressed his head against his, "For you I'll do whatever it takes to make you happy. Even if that means following the rules."

---

Death chuckled, "I guess we weren't keeping it too much of a secret. Thank you, Lily. Now that you two are done here, I must make a plan to see if Raven can visit his boyfriend. As for now, the two of you can begin practicing your ways as a reaper. I'll have a reaper assign to you both. They can explain our traditions, history, and other details."

---

Samson rolled his eyes but smiled, "Ok so it's not exactly accurate but in terms of charisma? I'd say so. As for the Anne Rice series, they do have the erotica down to accuracy."

[Shadowess]

"Charles! You're looking better." Amelia smiled as she looked at him. She sat in the kitchen with him and rubbed her forehead tiredly. "What a day... but everything seems to be easing up now. Hopefully, it stays calm long enough for us both to get a decent rest."

---

"Better to know our options, just in case. We gotta be prepared to fight dirty if needed." Kris commented. He then raised an eyebrow at Ortiz and chuckled. "Why? Not getting jealous of the newest addition, are you?"

---

When Dick moved closer to him, Henderson hesitated to move. He stared at him for a moment. His gaze, his words and the feel of his body heat were intoxicating. For a moment he almost forgot himself and where they were. But then he heard movement of some other officers entering the room to go about their jobs and he jumped a little while stepping back quickly. He looked at Dick with a torn expression then nodded to the cell while clearing his throat awkwardly. "Step inside, please. I'll come and get you when we're ready to head out."

---

Lilly smiled widely then looked at Raven to see if he was happy to know they were working on getting him in touch with his boyfriend. She was equally excited when told they were going to be trained to become Reapers. "You're assigning us a teacher? I won't let you down, father. Will we still have time for you to show me how to use my powers?"

---

"Agreed." Damien chuckled as he glanced at Samson. Content with the outfit he'd chosen, he stepped back into the bathroom for a moment to get dressed. A few minutes later, he stepped out fully clothed and stood in front of the mirror again to make sure the suit looked straight. "I'll get this back to you in my next visit... speaking of which, we should probably work out some kind of routine for our agreement," he said as he turned to face Samson. He walked over to the bed and sat on the edge. "My blood will only last a day or two in your system. You probably have enough to last one more day so I can come back tomorrow, if you'd like?" he hesitated and then added. "Before I go, We... also need to talk about what happened... at the warehouse."

[Denix Vames]

Charles smiled, "Then Sara is doing well? I hope the calm silence stays then. I think we could all use a break."

---

Ortiz flustered, "As if! I just can't believe this kid thinks he'll find anything out of you. Parental that is. You already made it out to him that he's just an asset for you. So, why does he see something different in you? I mean, it's like he thinks you have a heart!"

Ortiz was definitely jealous.

---

Dick glared. He shouted at everyone, "You know what I think?! I think this department ain't a saint as much as they like to think! I fucked up and I'll admit that! I'll go through with this but what about you lot? Any of you ever made your dues? I'm sure some of you have done some shitty things to the public! But because you've got a badge, that makes you invincible!"

Will could hear him from across the room as he was about to head to his office. He clenched his fists. He stormed over to the cells. Stepping inside, he sighed. "You're right. I have done some things that I can't take back. I should be....punished. I've been in fights with my friends. At that point, I should be arrested for assault. The fact that you killed an officer shouldn't make a difference. You killed a person. That's what matters. And frankly, it's not like they'll be gone forever. They can come back if they want. Or they can stay in Heaven."

Dick's eyes widened, "When I'll be! Never thought I'd see a copper own up to his bullshit."

Will placed a hand on Dick's shoulder, "Which is why we're still going to let you guide us there. You're right about one thing. We don't know what to expect but you know the layout of the place. Once you're in prison, we can explain everything to the CIA. Though they'll probably tell us it's out of our jurisdiction. Still, you can help them out at least. And Henderson can visit. I give him my full permission. Anyone here who tries to argue about it, I'll just tell them to be quiet."

Dick cocked his head, "Am I dreaming?" Will chuckled, "We're not always the bad guys. Look man, like I said, I can see you want to change. I do. So, the least I can do for you is open this department for you. It might be a bit tense at first but you're welcomed back with open arms."

Dick couldn't help but smile, "Guess I've got a lot to learn then if you lot are giving me the VIP ticket. You're alright for a chief." Will replied, "I'll take that as a compliment."

Dick shrugged. He stepped inside the cell and allowed Henderson to uncuff him. Will disappeared back into his office.

Dick began taking off his jacket and other items since he was already sweating. Leaving himself shirtless but with pants on. He began doing push ups in front of Henderson. Knowing that he'd make him blush.

---

Death said, "Of course. The reaper will be there to teach you traditions. However, I will be here to teach you about honing your powers." Raven's eyes sparkled, "You think you can do that? Let me visit him?" Death nodded at Azrael, "Talk to Raguel if you can. I know how childish he can be." He turned his attention back to Raven, "I'll do my best. I won't give up on this opportunity."

Raven hugged him tightly, "Thank you Father." Death returned the hug, "Anything for my children."

---

Samson closed the book and sat up. "Sure that sounds like a fair time to me." He smirked, "You're still worried about that? C'mon Damien! There's nothing to be ashamed of. We both had fun. We should be proud of our work. Have you already got cold feet?"

[Shadowess]

"Tell me about it." Amelia sighed while relaxing in her seat. "I know we're basically the bosses of Hell but it'd be nice to have one quiet day where we don't have to put out fires. Maybe we could do something like the human families do? Like take Oliver to the park or something when he wakes up?"

---

Kris grinned knowingly. "Ortiz, you're my right-hand man. You've been at my side since I started up our little gang. You don't need to feel threatened by a kid, man." He glanced around them quickly to make sure they weren't being watched or followed by either their rivals or the police. "Besides, what harm does it do to make the kids believe they can look up to me, huh? I put a roof over their heads, give them food and clothes. It's only natural they want to make me proud by working hard. The last thing I need is any kind of in-fighting. Understood? We get enough heat from cops and leeches."

---

[Henderson might be a bit 'hard to get' for a while xD ]

Henderson watched the whole interaction between Dick and Will with a confused expression. He wasn't sure how to react, particularly at Will's promise that he'd be able to visit Dick in prison. His face had already started to turn red from this. Is that what everyone in this precinct thought of him? That he'd already dropped his morals and loyalty to be with a cop killer?! Then, as if to rub it in, Dick had taken his shirt off to work out in front of him. He was hot under the collar alright, but he hadn't yet decided on how he felt about Dick. Overwhelmed, humiliated and confused he left without a word to try to get some air.

---

"Yes, sire," Azrael said with a barely concealed amused smirk before he vanished to Heaven to speak to Raguel. 
Happy for their little family, Lilly smiled at Death and Raven as they hugged. "Raven, we should probably go back to our rooms and get ourselves cleaned up before Azrael comes back," she suggested.

---

"I'm not-... that's not what I-..." Damien flustered for a second then looked away from Samson for a second to regather himself. "You're right. I had fun. That's the problem..." he turned his head to look at Samson again. "Before I met you I worked hard to rebuild a relationship with my family. To become someone they respect. I still have a ways to go too." he sighed. "But in that warehouse... and here, in your bed... I felt like myself. I want that again but I don't want it to cost me everything." He turned his body to face Samson a bit more. "They can't find out about it. Ever. But I can be myself with you. And if we kill, it has to be people who deserve it like those assholes who betrayed me in that warehouse. No mercy." 
 

[Denix Vames]

Charles replied, "That sounds like a terrific idea. We could also take him to those places for children. What are those places exactly?"

---

Ortiz sighed, "Fine but I won't go easy on him. If he's going to want respect then he has to earn it. Especially from me. I'm not exactly easy to please."

---

Dick stopped and put his shirt on, "Something tells me he's not exactly thinking straight."

Yami had watched Henderson ran by, "Hey you alright? Want to talk about it somewhere private?"

---

Death nodded, "She is right. Afterwards, once the visit is over, I will begin both of your lessons." Raven ran past excitedly. Eager to get himself freshened up for his boyfriend. Death chuckled, "I only wish I had childlike moments like those."

---

Samson grinned, "Keeping secrets eh? Just like you told me. Only this time we're talking about your family? Don't mind if I do. I won't spill a drop of what we've been doing so long as we can still have some fun." He cupped his chin. "Good luck out there. That dog of yours can sniff like a bloodhound. Might want to wear some cologne to hide all the mayhem."

[Shadowess]

"That could literally be anything." Amelia chuckled. "Kid gyms. Theme parks. Kid-themed restaurants..." she shrugged. "We'd have to wait to take him to some of those places. At least until he can walk and get confident on his feet."

---

"Good." Kris chuckled. "I don't need weaklings in my ranks. Now c'mon, let's get back. I got some planning to do." He vanished.

---

"I just-... I just-..." He breathed, trying to answer Yami as he continued to march towards the main doors. He kept going until he was in the parking lot by the precinct and could sit on the low wall on the other side. He didn't move for a little while as he tried to catch his breath. His anxiety was getting the better of him.

---

"You didn't?" Lilly asked curiously. She'd never thought to ask what Death's childhood had been like, or his parents. But now that he'd mentioned it, it had sparked her curiosity. 

---

With Samson cupping his chin, Damien's cheeks flushed pink and his eyes fell to his lips momentarily. "Something tells me the only thing he's going to be smelling on me for a while is, well, you." Damien chuckled as he reluctantly got to his feet. "But maybe I will borrow some of your cologne, just to be safe." He walked back into Samson's bathroom and came back out a second later, smelling a bit more like Samson. He hadn't even left yet and the smell was already driving him wild with desire. "Alright. So, just to get our stories straight in case he comes around asking. I came over, we went over the contracts. You signed. We had some drinks to celebrate then one thing led to another and I lost track of time. Sound good?"

[Denix Vames]

Charles blushed, "Right. I nearly forgot. Getting ahead of myself here. Perhaps a play date then with Ophelia?"

---

Ortiz vanished. He soon stood by Kris. There was a scream coming from where Blake was sleeping at. Ortiz chuckled, "Sounds like the kid had a nightmare. I'd say let it him stew on it. He needs to learn to deal with fear by himself."

---

Yami sat next to him, "Take some deep breaths. Once you're calm enough, start from the beginning."

---

Death shook his head, "I was created as is by God himself. There was no need to place me into a vulnerable state when I am meant to be the ruler of death and all that it offers."

---

Samson nodded, "That's the story. Although, he won't be too happy to hear about contracts if he even knows them."

[Shadowess]

"That sounds perfect." Amelia smiled after chuckling at Charles's comment. "Maybe a picnic at the park where we can eat together and take the children on the swings or something? We could invite Kite, Cindy and their twins too. I know Sara wanted more parents to turn to. And we kinda owe Elliot and Vincent so maybe they could come too." She continued eagerly, getting a little carried away herself but excited by the idea of all the different families coming together for a day out with the kids. 

---

Kris glanced at Ortiz. Partially worried and partially annoyed. "And if someone had broken in and he's calling for help?" he suggested. He knew this place was difficult to find and had enough runes in place to keep it safe but he could never be too careful. Particularly with how many enemies he'd made over the years. Unafraid, he marched into the Bunks to see what was going on.

---

"Does everyone think I'm some kind of slut?" Henderson blurted out in frustration. "I knew everyone would give me a hard time for Dick escaping the first time while I was on duty, but the way they're all looking at me whenever Dick flirts with me. I haven't even done anything with him! But everyone's looking at me like I have! Is that what they think happened when he escaped?! That he seduced me into letting him go!? Well, he didn't! I was knocked out! When I came to I was alone and unarmed with someone who'd killed a cop earlier that day. I was fucking terrified!" he shook and held his head in his hands, trying to steady his breathing. 

---

"God?" Lilly tilted her head slightly. Having come from a world with no afterlife, she wasn't familiar with the concept. "Well, if it makes any difference, I like you as a father. I guess I don't have much of a childhood left myself..." she said while gesturing to herself. Knowing full well she was almost physically mature enough to be considered an adult. While mentally, she had been forced to grow up quickly to survive. "But, that being said, I'm happy that I get to spend what's left of it as your daughter." She glanced down at herself. At the dust and dirt stuck to her clothes. "I should also head to my room to get washed." she chuckled.

---

Damien waved a hand dismissively. "Ah, that'll be fine. He'll understand when I explain that I tweaked it to be purely for our safety and doesn't really put our souls at risk." He took one last look at himself in the mirror to make sure he was presentable and he took a deep breath. "Alright, I better get going. I'll be back tomorrow." he then gave Samson a cheeky grin. "Don't go getting into any trouble without me." he gave him a wink and then headed out.

On the road home, he decided to take his time and walk. Part of him felt guilty that he'd be lying to James, but he knew it was necessary if he wanted to have this private way to let off steam. Plus he couldn't risk an angelic bracelet being slapped onto his wrist again. By far, that was his biggest fear. But he pushed down that fear in favour of confidence. He wasn't going to get caught. After all, this wouldn't be the first time he'd kept information close to his chest. It's just Tuzo's assassination all over again and Amelia never found out about that, right? No, of course not. Damien had nothing to worry about. His mind was a fortress and when it came to keeping secrets, he had once been a master. This would be easy.

[Denix Vames]

Charles replied, "We would have to prepare a lot of food. Everyone would have to chip in but I think that sounds like a great idea. I've never experienced a large family picnic before."

---

Blake caught his breath as he sitting up with sweat running down his skin. He flustered when he saw Kris, "It's nothing sir. I'm sorry about the noise. Just a bad dream. That's all."

A succubus wearing a long purple dress with dyed pink hair had appeared. She had a figure like a model and a very much pronounced chest. She said, "A nightmare yes. Funny enough, I was planning on taking his soul before I realized it was a child. I do have morals despite my title." She walked over to Kris, "But you look like the right age. Smart and good looking. I'm guessing you wouldn't fall for my tricks? Though I will say, it'd be nice to snack on a handsome trickster like you. It's not every day that I take one of you fellas into my stomach."

Blake raised a brow, "Why are you here?" She turned to him, "Well I'm here to take your daddy's soul, obviously." He glared and quickly threw himself between the two. Despite barely moving in, he wanted to make a good impression. "You want his soul? Then you'll have to get to me first!" She laughed, "Such insolent behavior. From a child is to be expected." She raised her hand to cast her powers when Blake suddenly punched her. She flew to the wall and hit her back. Knocking the wind out of her.

She coughed up before catching some air, "What are you feeding these children?!"

---

Yami placed a firm but gentle hand on his shoulder, "Then explain it to them. Tell them every detail. They're cops like you. I'm sure they can read the truth from you just fine. I mean, look at me. I wasn't exactly kind to you guys either. But I made up for it. I think your friends just need to give you a moment of their time. And Dick needs to take a moment to think about someone other than himself."

---

Death nodded, "I can explain what God is once you are done if you would like. I will be at my throne."

He walked away and headed there as said. Sitting in great patience for Azrael or Lily. Depending on who would arrive first.

---

Samson winked back, "I wouldn't want you to miss the trouble anyways."

---

James wouldn't be home just yet. He had decided to visit Mary and see if she needed help.

Right on cue, Balthazar, the once well known feared Ancient Devil, was holding a scalpel. He had lost his memory after that battle with Ash. Insanity tried to be by his side. Comforting in any way he could. Yet, Balthazar wanted nothing more than to cause carnage after losing his mind. Tired and exhausted from trying to remember, he had grabbed a scalpel and Mary. Putting an arm around her as the scalpel was close to her neck.

James growled at the sight. Balthazar gave that feared insane look in his eyes, "Don't come any closer! I just want to leave! But they won't let me!"

[Shadowess]

Amelia grinned. The more she thought about it, the more excited she became. "Neither have I. But I think all of us getting together to relax could be good." She tilted her head thoughtfully. Maybe we could get Carter and Sebastian to bring that boy along? It might help to show him that we mean no harm."

---

Kris had been about to leave after the boy had told him it was just a dream but the unfamiliar voice caused him to pause. He stared in shock at the woman in the room. Typically, his first thought was to notice her beauty. But that was quickly replaced by suspicion, wariness and irritation. He smirked at how she presumed his soul would be easily taken, but before he could retort or react, Blake had already jumped to his defence. He blinked in surprise but kept his eyes fixed on the succubus while grinning. Lifting his hand, he made a cupping gesture and immediately the concrete wall behind the succubus shifted. Jutting and shaping itself around her. Zig-zagging around her torso and legs to lock her uncomfortably in place. 

"I will be asking the questions, woman," he said to her forcefully then turned to look at Blake with a prideful smile. "Good work, kid. You've got some great potential. Now, go and make yourself scarce while I handle the rest. Get yourself some food from the kitchen or something." He turned to look at the Succubus again and stepped forward while removing his sunglasses to get a better look at her. His eyes were a deep shade of lavender. "What are you? How were you planning on taking my soul? What kind of magic is that?" then the most important question. "How can I learn to do that?"

---

"Why should I have to!?" Henderson asked, irritated. "Why am I having to defend myself? I haven't even done anything!"

---

Azrael would be the first to appear... with Raguel alongside him. The look on Azrael's face would be enough to indicate his frustration that Raguel had felt the need to accompany him back. Keeping up pretences, at least until the ceremony, Azrael stepped forward to bow to Death formally. "Sire, Arch Angel Raguel-"
"Would like to know why you want to bring a citizen of Heaven into your kingdom." Raguel cut him off. "If you want to make him into one of your Reapers after he's already settled in then you need to submit the reassignment application to the council."
"Apologies sire, I did try to explain..." Azrael said quickly as he gave Raguel an irritated side-eye stare. But as they already knew by now, Raguel could occasionally be hard-headed. Particularly when it came to Death's Kingdom. He hadn't even wanted to give Azrael over to Death initially, but he hadn't wanted to incur God's wrath by defying a direct order at the time.

---

"Oh, God..." May gasped fearfully as she tried to keep her head back and her neck away from the scalpel. Her body trembled against Abaddon's. Her wide eyes darted from the scalpel to James. "P-Please..." she said to Abaddon, trying her best to sound calm and composed given the situation. "You don't have to do this. We just want to help. I-If you just put the scalpel down, we can talk about this. We can d-discuss getting you dis-discharged from the hospital. Please, put the scalpel down. Please." 

[Denix Vames]

Charles nodded, "Sounds like a great idea." He tilted his head like a curious dog, "I wonder if the two have already found themselves parenting this kid as if it were their own?"

---

Blake nodded, "Thank you sir." He grabbed his clothes and quickly got dressed before making his way downstairs to the kitchen.

Violet struggled the concrete prison. She glared, "You think I'll tell you all my tricks? A lady never reveals her secrets. And I'm a Succubus for your information. I'm from Hell." She winked, "And who's to say you have me completely trapped? Maybe I've got a dolled up surprise for you."

---

Yami let out a frustrated sigh. Then he thought of something, "How about you get one of the guys to read Dick's thoughts? It seems like he uses a mask to keep everything down. Get someone who can read minds to somehow connect you to his for just a moment. It should be enough for you to understand him. Maybe then he'll understand you too."

---

Death's grip on the armrests of his throne had tightened. Showing that he had left cracks. He began walking down the stairs, "I am simply helping one of my children meet their long lost love. Raven wishes to see Conrad. If you had the patience and delicacy of a true Arch Angel like your own men then you would have allowed my right hand to inform you. I can see now that you are in no way capable of communicating with me anymore." He turned his back to him, "I request a more civilized Arch Angel."

He turned his head to show his rage filled glowing white eyes, "I suggest you make yourself scarce and leave to fetch another angel who can gladly help. Before I inform your higher up of His incompetent employee."

---

James carefully took out a small blade from his boot.

Abaddon pressed the scalpel against her. Barely cutting as her blood dripped. James threw the knife at his hand. Abaddon cried out as the knife pierced into his hand. The scalpel fell out of his hand. He collapsed and clutched his hand. James ran over to May. Relieved to see that Abaddon had only nicked her a bit. Nevertheless, he picked her up and helped her to a chair. He yanked the first aid kit compartment opened. Pulling out the kit and already disinfecting the cut before bandaging it. All while he was silently crying for the first time in view of everyone else. Showing great fear that he had once been taught to hide or ignore. 

[Shadowess]

"Might be a little too soon to say. He's only been with them for a day and he was still pretty shaken up when I left." Amelia commented then frowned a little. "I hope they managed to calm him down." She tapped her nails against the table as she thought for a moment. "Maybe I should check in on them and give them the invitation at the same time?"

---

Kris had waited until Blake left the room before answering the Succubus. He smirked and stepped closer to her. Confident that his spell had trapped her, he felt no fear as he lifted his hand to cup her chin and slowly turned her head left and right to get a good look at her. "Hell? I don't believe in fairytales, little girl." He sneered, overconfident. "You've got some power, but you're bluffing. You just wanted my attention, didn't you?" 

---

"You're not listening to me..." Henderson sighed in frustration as he rubbed his temples. "You know what? Forget it. I'm just going to go back and do my job. If anyone wants to judge me for something I didn't even do then I guess I'll know who I can't trust." he said sourly as he got up to march back into the precinct. He made a beeline for Dick's cell and gripped the bars. "Let's get this over with. You're going to take me where I need to go to bust these bastards. Now."

---

"You sanctimonious son of a-" Raguel had begun to growl angrily, which had already been enough of a shock to Azrael that he'd turned to look at him in disbelief. But then he saw something had caught Raguel's eye and following his gaze, he saw Lilly had entered the room only to slow to a stop as she too saw the way he was looking at her. 

The last time Raguel had seen Lilly was when his army needed to fight against her horde of deformed corpses when the second portal had opened. He'd seen Death strike the killing blow but hadn't known what had become of the girl after that. He'd assumed she'd been destroyed. Now he stared at the girl whom he knew had so much potential for chaos and destruction... and seeing only a threat his eyes turned red. 

Raguel's comment had already been wildly out of character but Angel eyes do not turn red and seeing this was enough for Azrael to act before things could get further out of hand. Just as Raguel moved forward, Azrael tackled him and teleported the pair to his office in Heaven. 

Roaring furiously, Raguel threw Azrael off. Before he could teleport back, however, the dark-haired Angel had jumped to his feet and flew at him, sending them both across the room and pinning the Arch Angel to the wall.
"Cease this madness, Raguel!" Azrael begged him while trying to hold him in place. Raguel only laughed and then headbutted him, knocking him back with a bloodied nose. 
"Madness? You think I'M mad?!" Raguel shouted back as he marched towards him threateningly. "That girl is a danger! A time bomb from another world come to destroy ours! She and Raven, both!"
"No! They're innocent! They-!" Azrael tried but was cut off as Raguel punched him, knocking him down. 
"Is that what he told you? Innocent!?" He kicked him, making him cry out. "I knew handing you over to him would warp your mind! That he'd twist you into something you're not!" He kicked him again. "You're an Angel, Azrael! You were one of Heaven's finest! What a waste!"

"There's something wrong with you! This isn't you! Raguel-!" Azrael lifted his hands, pleading. But Raguel kicked him across the room this time. Making his body slam against the wall. 
"To think I thought of you as my son." Raguel shook his head. His tone tinged with disgust. "Pathetic!" he bent down and grabbed Azrael by his throat, lifting him to pin him against the wall. "I will defend the realms to the last flicker of light. Even if I have to kill him and you for getting in my way." 

Azrael wasn't entirely sure what had happened next or how he'd found the strength given his beaten body. It all became a blur. He recalled screaming. His own screams continued to ring in his ears long after he'd stopped. He remembered fighting with every ounce of strength that he could muster. Until his fists throbbed with blinding pain and his lungs felt like they could collapse at any moment. A flash of surprise on Raguel's face. Then it was replaced by a shiny, red mess of bruises, swelling and cuts. 

In the stillness of the aftermath, Azrael looked down at the unconscious Arch Angel. His facial features were barely recognisable now. He looked at his fists which were equally battered and bloodied. As the realisation of what he'd done set in, he struggled to breathe. Weeping, he hurriedly crawled off Raguel's chest, huddled against the broken desk and stared at him for a moment. Raguel would recover but the shock and guilt of what had happened and what he'd done to him left Azrael feeling sick. That's not to mention the dread he felt that something had happened to Raguel to change him so suddenly into something so cruel and vile. Or what would happen to Heaven now that the commanding Arch Angel was no longer mentally stable enough to run things. 
"He-help..." he whimpered softly as he continued to stare at Raguel's barely breathing body. "Help!" he cried out, his voice breaking as he sobbed. "HELP!!!"

---

May whimpered as she felt the blade cut into her neck. For just a second, she'd expected him to pull the scalpel across her throat. When Abaddon cried out, the scalpel fell away from her and he let her go, she immediately ran to throw herself into James's arms. The security staff had already been at the door, ready to step in once May was out of harm's way. So while James was tending to her, they rushed in to pin him to the bed while a couple of nurses prepared to inject him with enough sedatives to knock him out for a while. 

May nervously watched them work until she was sure they were safe. She barely winced as James cleaned the cut on her neck. Then, when sure they were no longer in danger, she looked up at him as he placed a bandage over her cut. She lifted a hand to gently wipe away some of his tears with her thumb.  
"May, are you alright?" The chief of medicine asked as he stepped into the room. He'd heard of what had happened and rushed over from his office. 
"Y-yes, sir. It's just a scratch." May answered, clearly still shaken up. 
"Could've been worse. Thank God it wasn't," he commented then looked at James. "You're a hero for stepping in like that. Thank you." He then looked back at May with a sympathetic expression. "Take the rest of the day off, May."
"Sir, I'm fine. Honestly-"
"I'm not asking. You've been through a traumatic experience. Go. You'll still be paid for today. Take it easy. If you feel like you need some counselling tomorrow, let me know and we can arrange something." 
"Yes, sir..." May replied, defeated. "Thank you." she watched him leave, then looked up at James with a small, tearful smile. "Mind walking me home again?"

[Denix Vames]

Charles replied, "That doesn't sound like a bad idea. Should I start making anything?"

---

Violet sighed, "Oh dear trickster. You may have power but you are so naive." She invoked her aura and gave a seductive smile, "C'mon baby. Let me go." She easily stepped away once Kris tore the cement down. With the end of her aura, she enjoyed the look on Kris's face. "Do you see?" Her eyes flashed red, "I am more than a pretty face."

She tapped her head, "Now I think that child of yours can be easily manipulated? I got a chance to read him and I must say he seems to have an unhappy life. Before you came along. I wonder how it would feel if your new recruit was under my spell?"

---

Dick was fully dressed since it had gotten so cold in the cells. He bit his lip and clenched his fists when he heard Henderson, "What about doing things by the book? And what will your boss think?" He read Henderson's face. "I'm so fucking stupid, aren't I? I should have just done by my job but instead I let my emotions get the better of me. And now, you hate me. You have every reason to. Even if I had killed you, you still would have come back anyways. You still would have working as an officer and I would have ended up in federal prison at some point." He shook his head. For the first time, he was showing tears. "You wanna know why, I act like an ass? It's the only fucking mask I can put on to keep myself sane through all the bullshit. Now, it's useless."

Dick looked into his eyes, "I don't care if you don't believe me or not but I am sorry. You might as well just put a bullet in my fucking head. After all, I put one in one of your coppers."

---

Death appeared. He helped Azrael up. Holding him close, "My love! What has happened?" Gabriel appeared at the cry for help. He bent down at Raguel's side, "Knew something was off when you dyed your hair." He was only joking but it was obvious to any Angel that he wasn't the same Arch Angel that everyone knew. He picked Raguel up and threw him over his shoulders. "I'll explain everything to the guards in Heaven's cells. Apologies for my angsty friend here." He disappeared.

Death cupped Azrael's face, "I swear that blasted Arch Angel shall pay for this! I know not what has become of him but that does not excuse this violence upon you!"

---

Gabriel appeared at Heaven's cells. He went up to a guard and explained the whole story. He placed Raguel in a cell on a bed. He stood back as the guard locked the door. With a sigh, he said, "Uriel? Mind helping me out?" Uriel was another Arch Angel. Thankfully, one that had not been tainted by whatever Raguel had in his body.

---

James nodded. Keeping it together despite what happened. He held her in his arms like a bride. Knowing that she could walk didn't matter. He wanted her to be safe.

Once they reached her house, he set her down on her feet. "I....I need to be there. I need to....I don't want...." James suddenly found himself at a loss for words. He watched patiently as May unlocked her door before stepping inside and holding her close. He hadn't met to but it was such an instinct to hold her. He sobbed out, "I thought you would die! I thought I would hold your corpse in my arms!"

Trying to decide between his soldier training and emotions, he let her go. He found himself collapsing to his knees. "I don't know what I am anymore. I don't know who I'm supposed to be. I just feel empty inside."